1:25 AM Eastern
Sorry for the late bloggage (even though this seems to be the usual time I post). When the game finished, I had to hightail it up to Thornhill for my first old-guy-softball league game of the season (I went 2-for-4 with a two-run double, made two errors and struck out looking in the last inning – on a pitch that was WAY high and outside, damnit), then headed off to Scarborough to open the season in my sim league (www.wmorose.ca/THROW) – my boys went 1-1, both games going into extras.
So, I just got home and here I am – blogging about the fourth-place Blue Jays for the first time in a while.
Look back three days, didn’t I mention that the last time the Jays had faced a team that was first in the AL Central by a game and a half that they’d swept them? Call it two in a row now that the Twins have fallen by the wayside. I never expected it to happen, but again, it just shows how quickly things can get yanked out of the abyss. The Jays are now within a game of the elusive .500 mark that they haven’t seen since they woke up 10-10 about three and a half weeks ago, and they’ve hopped over the now-last place Yankees. I’m going to write that again, because it has such a nice ring to it: The last-place Yankees.
Even though I hang on every word that Jerry and Alan have to say 162 games a year, I have to tell you that it was pretty frustrating that this afternoon’s game wasn’t televised. I always feel more comfortable commenting on a game when I’ve actually seen it.
I will say that I wasn’t impressed by Dustin McGowan’s wildness – he walked five in his five innings of work, and needed 101 pitches to get through it. McGowan has only had one good start in his last four – if he’s not walking seven Rays, he’s giving up six runs in the first in Cleveland. He broke through beautifully last year, and when he’s been good, he’s been outstanding, but these sorts of lengthy downturns aren’t a lot of fun to watch (or listen to). Is there concern that he might not be fit to be the # 3 starter (behind Halladay and Marcum)? Not to this point, I don’t think, but he’s got to fix whatever it is that’s going wrong, and soon.
Luck certainly appears as though it’s continuing to turn the Jays’ way – among the things that fell in the your heroes’ favour today were Jason Kubel running through a stop sign in the 7th, trying to score from first on a bloop single to left and Kevin Mench making a spectactular (so I heard) game-saving catch on Carlos Gomez to end the 10th. It’s long past time that things start to go the Blue Jays’ way, and it’s nice to see things turning around.
This game felt more like the previous few weeks, before the win streak, in that the offense was wanting more often than not. They were 2-for-11 with runners in scoring position, but this time both hits scored runs and they got another on a groundout by the Best Blue Jay Ever. I’m telling you, the tongue is being planted less and less firmly in the cheek on that with each passing day. Today, Scott Rolen had a pair of hits outside that RBI fielder’s choice, including a double off the baggie in right to start the game-winning rally in the 11th. And how about this for more proof that the worst could very well be over? Rolen was still standing on second with two out in the 11th, and the Jays managed to score him anyway. Last week and the couple of weeks before, that just plain didn’t happen.
Rolen also made, according to Jerry, as good a catch on a line drive as you’re ever going to see (I didn’t), robbing Matt Tolbert of a two-out hit in the bottom of the ninth.
Armando Benitez retired all four batters he faced – all righties, but that’s cool, that’s what he’s good at now. And Jesse Carlson – that had to be it for him, right? There’s no way he pitches on Friday, is there? It was his 7th appearance in the last 8 games, and already his 11th day of work in the month of May alone! And today he faced five hitters (retiring four) – his longest stint out of all 11 appearances. He’s pitching great, but enough is enough!
Friday night, it’s the Jays’ long-standing interleague rivals from Philadelphia. Rivals because of the six extremely meaningful games they played back 15 years ago, or maybe because their Spring Training ballparks are about 10 minutes away from each other. Regardless, we get to see Shaun Marcum swing the bat on Sunday afternoon, and I for one can’t wait! David Purcey makes his second big-league start in the opener – Jorge Velandia was farmed out in order to make room.
Comments are encouraged, as always – there was no JaysTalk after the game today, so we have a lot up for which to make!
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I have to say, your excitement for Shaun Marcum swinging the bat is a little weird. I mean, we’re not talking about Micah Owings here are we?
MW: Well, not Micah Owings, but the next tier of hitting pitchers, I think.
- LexI think what us Jays fans really want to know is…how bad were the errors you made? Will you be able to show your face around there again?
MW: The first one was on a knuckling line drive that I kind of half-dove, half-fell for and it still got through me. Might have been the worst I have ever looked on a baseball diamond. The second one was on a slow roller up the middle that got past the pitcher, the only chance I had was to barehand and throw on the run, and I threw it away. I should have just eaten it.
- AndyI don’t quite get how when the Jays are on the road you listen to the game and watch it at the same time. It doesn’t seem to work for anybody else, or are you just subjected to the 5 second or so delay between the radio and TV too? We all wish we could turn down the TV guys and listen to the amazing work your team does on a nightly basis. It really is a pleasure to listen to.
Maybe Mr. Millman will splurge for an MLB.TV account (is it “a” or “an” there, I never know if you go by pronunciation or spelling) for ya.
MW: I’m pretty sure it’s “an”. There’s a delay? I thought Jerry and Alan were just REALLY good at figuring out what was going to happen!
- AriI saw the game on mlb.tv (I live in NY). The camera wasn’t really focused on Mench b/c the camera guy thought it made sense to zoom in on the ball, but it didn’t seem so spectacular based on the aftermath. Rolen’s catch was ridiculous, though.
There were several things that went the Jays’ way, which was nice, but I don’t remember them and it’s late. But I’ll tell you this: there’s really nothing positive or uplifting about the fact that they scored Rolen from 2nd with two outs. The winning hit was delivered by Inglett, who, of course, shouldn’t be and wouldn’t be on the team. The regular guys couldn’t do it, it’s as simple as that. They went scoreless from the 3rd through the rest of the game until a guy from Triple-A gets a big hit. And it’s not the first time they’ve won like that. This thing will not get turned around until players who are regulars on the team can get the big hit when they need it.
MW: In their defense, Shannon Stewart hit a line drive and then Lyle Overbay and Gregg Zaun walked. The only one who really failed before the Inglett hit was Mench, and he was hitting against a righty, which he wouldn’t be doing in a perfect world.
- ShmuelHi Mike : Pulled a Rios, did you? And it was the ump’s fault….right? Cue the strains of “Three Blind Mice”!
The game was one of the few that I HAD to see. Lost precious time surfing. Why was it radio-only? 500 channels and Ted couldn’t make room for his team? Probably a plot to sell MLB.com subscriptions.
D-Mac didn’t seem to be able to maintain his release point. Maybe that insert that they are wearing is a distraction(?). They play with it way too much.
Good to hear that J-Mac and Eck are taking infield practice…won’t be long now. Who goes down at that point?
The team is winning, ergo, everybody’s job is safe….for now.
MW: The mouth guard (if that’s the insert you mean) doesn’t seem to be a distraction for Marcum, so I don’t know if it is for McGowan. And I didn’t pull a Rios – he rarely goes down looking. When Mac and Eckstein get back, Purcey and Inglett are likely headed down.
- JackSo the Jays ride a four game winning streak into the City of Brotherly Love.
Hopefully the Jays can get some big hits in this hitter friendly ballpark.
I had the chance to visit Citizens Bank Park last year when Philly played the Reds and I was really impressed with the makeup of the stadium. They have a great bullpen set up and amazing spots to eat.
I suggest a visit for any Baseball loving fan.
- ScottHi Mike, have to agree with you, the offence is starting to come around, and I hope the Blue Jays can keep it up. Is Mench, or mInch, not sure of the spelling, really known for his base stealing? I believe in the first game he’d played as a Jay, he’d taken off, and stole second, without them even being close to getting him. Rolen is certainly able to ware pitchers down like he did twice in this series, and I like his play a third so far since he’s been playing with the Jays. Is it possible that the Jays would consider sending Accardo down to the minors to work on his splitter? Like JErry, Alan, and you have said a lot of times, he really needs that pitch if he’s going to be successful. I agree that it’s time to give Carlson some time off. If they are going to make room for Brian WOlf when he comes back, I’d say it would be good to send Accardo down, that’s just my opinion.
MW: Accardo is currently on the disabled list, so he’ll wind up in the minors at least to rehab that forearm strain before he’s back. Mench is not a good base stealer, but even guys who aren’t good base stealers can be opportunistic, as he was that first day.
- DanMW, Im not sure if you are a poker player, but those that are will get the analogy. The Jays had been getting a lot of “bad beats” leading up to this little 4 game win steak. In poker, you might make the right decision at the right time, and have all the odds in your favor, only to get extremely unlucky when the river card comes…nothing u can do about it. you can go on a RUN of these when you are half expecting the bad beat to happen before you are even called. but the thing is..as long as you continue to stick to your game and are employing sound strategy/odds the bad beats cannot and never do last over the lung haul…and then it normalizes and everything is alright with the world. the jays hitting has been much this way. although not hitting that well, they’ve hit into a ton of bad luck culminating with the cleveland debacle that ninth inning. that was the last bad beat..after that, the world has normalized somewhat and the hitting has come around just enough to win (which is all the teams needs..decent not great hitting).
ive been hearing alot about Rios hitting woes recently, and JP also alluded to this. the claim is he’s pulling his head, trying to pull everything and not seeing the outer half of the plate. i think this is part of the problem for sure. but to me there seems to be much more. i mean for a guy trying to pull everything, why is he still hitting so man foul balls down the right field line on mediocre fastballs? why isnt he pulling a bunch of pitches foul when they are inside and he’s looking inside? I think his swing has just gone back to what it was when he first came up, long and loopy..and this is what can happen to a lanky hitter like that. im sure he is full aware but just cant get it to work right now. do u think there’s any chance that this thing goes on for the entire year?
MW: I like the “bad beat” analogy, nicely done. With Rios, sure it could go on the entire year, but I wouldn’t bet on it. These streaks usually come to an end and things get back to normal – remember, this guy went to the all-star game the last two seasons.
- sammy jalalzaiPlease tell me that Minnesota wasn’t carrying the game either, because it would be really sad if you were sitting in one of the communications capitals of Canada and they wouldn’t shell out for MLB Extra Innings. Of course I’d like to think that the only sports radio station in Toronto who are the rights holders to the only baseball team in Canada would be able to afford and MLB.tv subscription too, but, you know, priorities and such.
As an aside, Carlson is now tied for second in the AL in appearances, despite the fact that he didn’t even begin the season with the team.
MW: We have the extra innings package at the radio station, so I guess the game wasn’t televised in Minny, either.
- ColinWhats your thoughts on Khalil Greene, hes been mentioned lately in rumours ?
i know hes doesn’t have a great OBP but he does hit for some power (last year probably wont happen again) and he does drive in runs, not to mention he is solid defensively.
MW: Greene has a .308 lifetime obp – no thanks, the Jays already have John McDonald.
- NathWilner,
Rosenthal mentioned Matt Holliday’s name as one that could be possibly moved at some point this season, he also mentioned the jays being a possible fit. I’m thinking that it probably takes at least Cecil and Snider to even have a chance at landing him, but he does have another year left on his contract. Personally, I don’t know if we will have as good a staff as we have this year again any time soon. Holliday is the kind of guy that can change the entire complexion of an offense. With an offense anywhere near average, this could very well be a playoff team. With Holliday I think the offense would be even better than average. You think it’s time to sell the future for the now?
MW: It’s time to sell the future for the correct now, and I don’t think Holliday is that. Look at his numbers when he’s not at Coors Field, very ordinary.
- TerrySomething I’ve wondered for a while… do any of the minor leagues *not* use the DH? Other then interleague and AJ, have any of these guys hit in a real game since college?
MW: I believe that when NL-affiliated teams play each other in the minors, they don’t use the DH, but that could have changed by now.
- paulfoi vey mike
spend a few bucks on mlbtv so you can watch the non-televised games… I think you might be able to expense it.
MW: MLB.TV blacks out games in local markets, I’m told.
- Paul OWhy do we always seem to play the goodNL teams in interleague? ore the match-ups decded upon?
What happened to Burnett being our #2? Marcum should be, I agree, but has there been a change?
MW: The only change is based on performance. The “numbers” of the starters only really matter the first trip or so through the rotation. Right now, the order of the Jays’ starters is Halladay-McGowan-Burnett-Marcum-Litsch, but that doesn’t mean that McGowan is the 2 and Marcum is the 4. Are the match-ups decided upon? I don’t know what that means.
- andrew - KWWould you compare Scot Rolen on the Jays, to a Gary Roberts on the Leafs? It works for me. Hard nosed, pure atheletes that come through in the clutch.
MW: No, I wouldn’t. Hockey and baseball are entirely different animals.
- DaveAny idea what it would take to steal Holliday away from the Rockies? Rosenthal says he might well be available if they keep struggling. How nice would HE look patrolling left field?
MW: See above.
- Rob_NSHello Mike, how are you this morning? I’m feeling rather witty, so here goes:
2 errors, only 2 for 4? That’s it, you might as well face it, the season’s over. There’s just no way that you can rally and go on to the post season after a start like that. Unless maybe you fire your manager. Obviously your GM is boneheaded and can’t put together a contending team. Does he even LIVE near you? Hee, hee, softball chicken little-ing, fun.
Also, just want to repeat it after you because it sounds so sweet; last place Yankees. Laaaaast place Yankees.
I don’t often get Jays talk, it depends on the vagaries of the local stations that carry the game, so if I’m well behind the times, I’m sorry. I am pretty sure that you are not a fan of interleague play ( I am, by the way, I like seeing a variety of teams, not just the usual suspects.) Am I right about your feelings regarding it, and if so, why do you feel that way? Thanks Mike.
MW: The only thing I don’t like about interleague play is that it screws up the schedule. The argument that MLB has put forth is that the schedule can’t be balanced and include interleague play, and I think that blows. Otherwise, I don’t mind it. I think that MLB sets things up so that attendance numbers will be higher – start on a weekend in mid-May, when the weather is getting nice, do it again when school’s out in the U.S. and around Father’s Day so they can say how much higher the interleague attendance numbers are than the rest of the season.
- kitaHi Mike,
This has been a terrific turning of the corner for the Jays! I really like your blog and your radio program!
Today I just want to join you in frustation for not seen the game on TV (your might remeber I entered a couple of questions a few days back). It is even more frustating when at 7:00 pm Rogers Sportsnet Ontario televised the Phillies vs. Braves! What’s is wrong with the programming? Today, I think that neither TSN or RSN will be televising the game at Philly! It’s plain frustating!
I really have not reasonable explanation as to why this is happening. I presume that RSN spends money in transmission rights to the network doing the TV game bewteen Braves and Phillies. So it’s not about budget or programming…
For those of us who live in outside the GTA is even worse because we cannot tune the Fan590! It’s plain ridicolous!
The nice thng is that the Jays have turned the corner and I’m happy about it!
Cheers!
MW: I’m glad you’re happy, you should fire off those complaints to the TV folks!
- AxelRolen, Rolen, Rolen – keep those Jays a rollin! For all you negative fans out there when it comes to JP – what a deal that was when he went out and got Scott Rolen.
Further to the Rolen deal how about Marco Scuttaro – he was a blessing in disguise a late pick up by JP – you’d almost think he had a crystal ball as to both SS going down at the same time. Great Job JP!
Marco might be small in stature but is surely huge in heart! Great play to get the out at home from LF! Here’s a guy who truly works hard – winter ball every year even after what – 10 years in the bigs! I would put him at #2 behind Johnny Mac and ahead of Eckstein (at this stage of his career) as to defence at SS.
I’ve said it before – we should be thankful to JP for all the great talent and exciting players he has brought to the jays over the years of his tenure.
So before you go knocking him again take a minute to think of the players you cheer for – like Rolen, Stairs, Scuttaro, and Ryan just to mention a few – and just who it was that had the foresight to sign em!
I think McGowan will be ok – he has lots of “heat” up there and with that comes some loss of control once in a while. He is still young and still learning. Think he is sometimes trying to over impress/achieve and is “aiming” the ball rather than “throwing” the ball – just my thoughts on him.
Nice to see the Jays winning those close ones for sure – let’s hope the trend of sweeping a team is not followed by being swept by the next one. Should be an exciting series in St. Louis!
Mike – is your softball league the “fast pitch windmill” type pitching – that’s a tough game with a short/close infield – the ball just rockets toward you within mili-seconds. It can at times be tougher to play that game defensively as compared to “baseball”.
On a side note – Ever hear of ‘Eddie Feigner” and his 4 man “fast pitch” softball team – imagine a softball pitcher hitting the 100mph mark – wow! He pitched over 200 perfect games (7 innings) and over 900 no hitters! I saw him as a kid on more than one occasion at fall fairs – amazing.
Looking forward to this weekend of games! Thanks.
MW: This weekend is in Philadelphia, not St. Louis. I do remember the King and his court, but I never got to see him pitch, that would have been awesome. The league I play is called “modified fast-pitch”, which is no windmill delivery. I used to catch fast-pitch, but that team broke up three or four years ago.
- BobHi Mike,
“Say it ain’t so, Joe!” Inglett the hero of the game? Who woulda thunk it? That hit is going to stick with him for a while, I’m sure he’s still smiling!
I’m loving the season so far! The Jays pitching has been the best in a long time, and all 4 games I’ve been to have been Jays wins!
Here’s some prose called ‘The Pitcher’ by Robert Francis
His art is eccentricity, his aim
How not to hit the mark he seems to aim at,
His passion how to avoid the obvious,
His technique how to vary the avoidance.
The others throw to be comprhended. He
Throws to be a moment misunderstood.
Yet not too much. Not errant, arrant, wild,
But every seeming aberration willed.
Not to, yet still, still to communicate
Making the batter understand too late.
–
As soon as those Jays bats wake up they are going to be unstopalicious!
Have a great weekend Mike! See you on the other side of .500!
Aneez
PS – Any chance of a Mike Wilner Day at the dome? Will they let you at least throw the first pitch?
MW: Don’t hold your breath.
- AneezMike;
I was at work, and with the FAN being unable to play Jays games, I was listening to it on MLB.com.
The problem is, as soon as the 9th inning was finished, the stream was over, so I had to listen to some crappy Minnesota commentators for the rest of the game….
Whats going on, I want to listen to Alan and Jerry, not some knuckleheads from Minnesota!
MW: That’s strange, I don’t know why that would have happened. It shouldn’t, so hopefully it won’t again.
- Andrew NMike,
Say Brian Wolfe, David Eckstien, and JMAC are all back next week….who is taking the bus back to Syracuse?
Do you think Benitez with stay with the big club for the year?
MW: Benitez is probably around for a while, they can’t send him down without his permission, so he’d have to be released to get him off the roster. Wolfe hasn’t started rehabbing in the minors yet, so I don’t know how soon he’ll be back, but he probably takes Camp’s place when he’s healthy, maybe Tallet’s. I’ve already mentioned who leaves when the shortstops return.
- Andrew NMIke,
Your online roster must not be up to date. Or if it is ….I am not sure I read/listen to you in the same light anymore.
I was thinking last nigth, is there any matches for an Eck trade? I was thinking about LAA, they are over loaded in the outfield and are playing a young SS.
MW: And have Scutaro take over every day, or Mac? I don’t know what the market for Eckstein would be, but if they could get something nice, why not? The online roster is from early last year, a rebuilding year in which I still wound up getting to the final four by some tremendous streak of luck.
- JWJust curious, Mike — it seems like the Blue Jays have been quite successful so far this year with their pinch-hitting. Do the stats bear this out, or is it just my “selective memory”?
MW: Blue Jays’ pinch-hitters are .313/.450/.500 so far, though only in 20 plate appearances. It’s not your selective memory.
- NormMike
You can see both catches on the gameday page for yesterdays game at MLB.com .Rolen’s catch is awesome .I know its only been a few weeks but like you i am hugely impressed by Scott Rolen , could he be the best Blue Jay 3rd baseman ever?.
Do you think the Jays will go after Bedard in the off season or will he be too expensive?.
MW: Bedard still has another year in Seattle before he’s free, but he’ll cost way more than A.J. Burnett did and he appears to be just as injury-prone. Rolen is the best Blue Jay third baseman ever, yes.
- Billy2-for-4, nice day at the dish Wilner … I think the important question though is, what are you hitting with RISP?
I think a running tally in your blog throughout the season would be nice.
Also, what type of softball is it? Pitching-wise, that is?
MW: I think I was 2-for-3 with RISP – the strikeout was with a runner on first only.
- ColeExcerpted from Scott Miller’s column yesterday “What you get for $200 million: The Yankees have been almost perfectly symmetrical. So far this season they’ve been 1-1, 2-2, 3-3, 4-4, 5-5, 6-6, 7-7, 9-9, 10-10, 12-12, 13-113, 14-14, 16-16, 17-17 and 18-18.” So, 81-81 over 162 games, anyone?
MW: Cool. I wouldn’t bet on them finishing with fewer than 88 wins, though. Miller writes for cbssportsline.com, by the way.
- NormMike
Follow the game free on the MLB website, it has video highlights during the game.
Would you agree that the seeming emergence of the Rays, and improved play of the O’s, is good for the Jays? Those two teams may take some wins away from the Yanks & Bosox? I understand they can take them from the Jays too, but since the Jays seem to struggle against bad teams but the Bosox and Yanks don’t, or is that my perception?
PS it’s “a” unless the following word begins with a vowel, then it’s “an”
MW: I read like I talk, so I prefer “an” in front of an abbreviation like “mlb”. That’s your perception – the Rays eat up the Yankees almost as much as they do the Blue Jays.
- DanIs the game tonight going to be on 399 or 401 of Rogers Digital Cable Mike?
How many games of softball do you get to play in a year Mike is it just when the jays don’t play on Thursday or have an afternoon game on Thursday I guess.
Here I thought I was the only one who looked forward to watching the jays pitchers bat. For some odd reason I really enjoy it. I remeber back in 93 watching Juan Guzman bat and seeing Todd Stottlemyer take that walk I really liked but I never told anyone because I thought it was weird. But I feel better now because Mike’s weird with me.
MW: I’m not looking forward to watching Purcey or Burnett (career .130 hitter) hit, because they’re likely automatic outs, just Marcum. I usually get to play 6-10 games a year. I don’t know which digital channel the game will be on tonight, but it’ll be on one of them.
- Dan M.Mike,
Why don’t you subscribe to MLB to wach the out of market games?
MW: You mean MLB.TV, and I’m told they’re blacked out in the local market. I have the extra innings package to watch out of market games – I spend enough time in front of the computer as it is.
- SteveHow does the triple A call up and return thingy work. If Purcey come up for one spot start tonight and returns to Syracuse Saturday, why can’t the same player that left the roster for Friday’s game return? Is their a minimum time a player has to be off the roster once he leaves? Your clarification on this issue would be appreciated.
MW: Once he’s optioned out, unless there’s a DL issue, he can’t come back for 10 days.
- SteveI apologize for being unable to understand the word “intangible”. I guess stats like baserunning and taking pitches is something which I simply don’t have time to look at.
Anyways, interleague always scares me (especially on the road). Glad I’m not a Mets fan after last nite’s game. Lose 1-0 because you can’t run out a fly ball to right that should have scored a run. Brutal!
How does Jesse Litsch have better numbers than Burnett and McGowan? Litsch and Marcum are excellent examples of the theory that you don’t need electric/nasty stuff to be successful. McGowan and Burnett should take notes from these two.
Last place Yankees does feel great to say and read!
Go Jays!
MW: At the moment, Litsch has better numbers because he simply refuses to walk anybody. He has given up more homers than Burnett and McGowan put together, though.
- Rob H.I think the offence is starting to turn the corner, but not many teams look impressive with a quick turnaround game, in a different timezone, on the road.
Hopefully we can keep the good times rolling against a tough Phillies team. .500 heading home wouldn’t be bad at all.
Are they keeping Inglett up instead of Valendia to be the backup SS until Eckstein and MacDonald are activated?
I think McGowan (has electric stuff like Burnett), should have a sitdown with Litsch (who knows he doesn’t have the best stuff, so can’t afford to give bases away) on how to pitch with some control.
I think you are right about Marcum and hitting. Isn’t Josh Towers the only pitcher in Jays history with a hit in interleague play?
MW: No – Roy Halladay had a couple of hits last year, Roger Clemens had at least one for the Jays, Mark Henderickson hit a home run, a few Jays pitchers have had hits in interleague. Inglett will back up until EckDonald is ready. And I don’t get the thing about not many teams looking impressive in a quick turnaround game in a different time zone on the road – it reads like you mean it as a negative, but isn’t that just what the Jays did on Tuesday?
- Aaron KerMichael, I’m loving your writing.
Regarding the Scott Rolen catch, it was amazing. Thrilling. I saw it about twenty minutes after it happened because of this fabulous MLB tool called GameDay that actually shows video highlights.
You should check it out.
MW: I shall.
- TrevorMy friend thinks that Matt Stairs should be an everyday player. But i told him that he can’t hit left handed pitching for beans…What do you think
MW: I don’t know about beans, but he doesn’t hit lefties well enough to be in the line-up against them, I don’t think.
- TomHey Mike,
Just a quick question for you. Everyone seems to think (you included) that AJ Burnett will opt out of the final year of his contract at the end of the season. However I’ve also heard you say on several occasions that you don’t think the Jays will trade him this year. My question is, why not? If the Jays really feel that AJ will not be with them next year why not trade him now and get something in return instead of watching him walk for next to nothing after this season. The jay’s could trade him and pick up another bat in the lineup. I’m sure teams like the Yankee’s would love to add AJ to there very weak pitching staff. The problem in Toronto for AJ is that while he may not be pitching horribly this year, compared to the rest of the rotation he has deffinately been the most inconsistant and unreliable. And with David Purcey waiting in AAA why not give Purcey a shot to prove he belongs with the big club, especcially if he performs well today.
Thanks!
MW: Burnett has always been much better than his numbers indicate right now when he’s healthy, so he can be expected to turn it around, and who knows what Purcey can handle as a regular member of the rotation? When A.J. walks, the Jays will get a draft pick or two out of it, and that’s better than next to nothing.
- Kyle SheaThe Yanks are in last place. Today is a good day.
- EyanI was ticked off that Sportsnet was showing Poker on TV instead of the Blue Jays
- Sam McLeanBy the way, how do you have time to participate in an softball league when your supposedly watching/listening to 162 baseball games?
MW: Strangely enough, the Blue Jays don’t play baseball 24 hours a day.
- SteveMW
I’ve noticed McGowan’s fastball velocity is down in the last few games he’s struggled in. In the games he blew people away, his fastball was in the 95 to 99 range. These last few games it’s been 92-93. Could this be the reason he’s struggling-trying to aim it instead of simply letting it go?
Is Arnsberg working with him to fix the problem?
MW: Could be, but I don’t know if that’s the case. The Cleveland game I thought his fastball was fine, but he couldn’t control his slider. As for your second question – do you really think he might not be?
- GerryHey Mike
Not only is the game not televised, but if you don’t live within earshot of the GTA it is seemingly impossible to watch/listen to the game in any way.
I find it frustrating that bluejays.com lists mlb.tv as carrying the game when RSN isn’t, but mlb.tv has a nation-wide blackout in effect even when the game is not being carried by anyone!
This doesn’t make much sense to me, and I’m not sure who is responsible but one/some/all of mlb, the Blue Jays and RSN must be losing fans and money on this one.
MW: Money maybe, but I doubt they’ll lose fans because they can’t see one or two of 162 games. You know, 20 years ago, we only got to see two games a week. Also, we have a national network that carries the games on the radio – there’s not total coverage outside the GTA, but there are lots of places across Ontario and the rest of the country that you can hear the game.
- ScottMike,
What position do you play in softball? And your strikeout, were there men in scoring position? Reason I’m asking is that on Wednesday you could show the tapes to JP and maybe hit him up for a spot on the roster.
Just looking out for ya bro!
KK
MW: Shortstop, and no.
- karim kanjiI think you are overrating the players on the jays. If PIT wanted Litsch and Lind for Bay don’t you think JP would have done it already. The Jays would be giving up one unproven player and one with a decent track record, but a very low ceiling. In return, the Jays would be getting a proven all star performer. How do you not make that deal if you are JP? I don’t think the Jays would be giving up too much at all. In fact, the Jays would win that deal easily. Secondly, I’m still not impressed with the Jays offense. I know they have won four straight, but the offense is still crappy. Its better than a week ago, but not significantly better. They still blew a lot of chances with RISP. I think JP will have to add an impact bat sooner rather than later if they intend to make the playoffs.
MW: I said I would do Litsch and Lind for Bay, I didn’t say Pittsburgh would. Like you said, the offense is better than a week ago, it takes time to get significantly better, but even just a little better has led to four straight wins.
- aviMike,
I apologize if it has been discussed elsewhere. Can you please explain why the most expensive pitcher in the rotation is being spotted by a triple-A call-up? If Purcey is going to play, then what do we need A.J. for? If he’s opting out at the end of the year, Gibby ought to work him to death and get my ticket money’s worth…
MW: Burnett was supposed to pitch last Sunday, but the game got rained out, so he had to pitch in the doubleheader Monday with Marcum. Because of that, he would be working on short rest if he started today, and in order to avoid that issue, Purcey has been called up. Burnett will work on his normal four days’ rest tomorrow.
- BrandonMike –
How close/far is Carlos Delgado from 500 career home runs? If he’s close and DOES get to 500 is he “automatic for Cooperstown?
Lastly – I’m heading to Yankee Stadium in August to watch the Jays spank the Pinstripes. Any suggestions on what are “must sees” at the House that Ruth built?
KK
MW: Delgado is at 436 homers, and may not get to 500. A player who had his prime in the years that Delgado did will find that 500 homers won’t gain him automatic entry into Cooperstown. I don’t think Delgado is a hall of famer, though that could change. Make sure you hit Monument Park when you go to The Stadium, but try to stay away from the $5.75 Cracker Jack.
- karim kanjiHey Mike:
The Jays have played against some teams with some exceptionally speedy guys. I’d love to see a contest at the All-Star Game between the players with the most stolen bases — to see how quickly they could run the bases … and crown the speed champ.
What do you think?
(Waterloo, Ontario)
MW: That’d be cool. They need something besides the HR Derby and the futures game.
- Scott BrownTonights game won’t be on air either unfortunately. I believe its 6 games this month that wont. Thank you memorial cup! Congrats on batting .500, but Im sure it was a long drive home thinking about those two errors, Eckstien! Did you win atleast??
And I was just wondering why it’s not allowed for Fan 590 to play the Jays games over the live feed internet. Is MLB that cheap?
MW: Tonight’s game will be on digital cable, at least. The errors sucked, but sadly, I’m used to it – I’m not 30 anymore. We lost, 9-6. MLB has retained all its internet rights, and it has made itself a bucketload of money in so doing. No one is allowed to webcast regular season games except for mlb.com.
- RyanI loved the win yesterday. It’s a shame it wasn’t on TV. I am getting excited about this team.
Mike, how would an expert describe Rios’s recent slump? What is it that he is not doing?
MW: Besides hitting? He’s not covering the outside half of the plate, so pitchers are taking huge advantage of him there.
- BeburgConcerning my comment about quick turnaround games on the road.
The offence seemed to slip back into their old pattern (2 for 11 with RISP). I jsut think the bats were dragging a bit.
Rios will get it turned around.
Modified fast pitch? Do the pitchers just have to use an arm action similar to bowling to get momentum?
MW: Yup, but they don’t move towards the rubber on their tippy-toes all Fred Flintstone-like.
- Aaron KerYou’re kidding about Khalil Greene being John McDonald right? Outside of Petco (a hitter’s nightmare) Greene has OPS’ of .840, .863, .772 and .895. Even you can admit that McDonald could never dream of those numbers. Factor in Greene’s above average D and yeah, I’ll take Greene over McDonald any day of the week.
MW: Yeah, I’d take Greene over McDonald, too – he’s younger and also a very good fielder (though no Mac). But you already have Mac, and you’d have to give up something significant to get Greene.
- AndyI’m just wondering what makes coors field so special for Matt Holliday then at Rogers Centre? They are both hitters parks? I just want you to tell me the difference?
MW: Coors Field, even post-humidor, is a better hitters’ park. Because it’s a mile or so above sea level, the outfield is huge to make up for the fact that the ball travels farther.
- andrewHey Mike:
Jesse Litsch came through the minor leagues very quickly. While he was there, he had some exceptional numbers (eg. between 2005 to 2007, 54 BB vs 265 SO) in 55 games.
Last year (his rookie year), he had an ERA of 3.86 in 20 starts.
Litsch may only throw 90 MPH (at best) fastball, but his ball breaks “like the wind”. Velocity is only part of the equation, and I really think Litsch has solid upside.
I would be more open to trading Burnett for something … but since we can’t get a lot … I’m not sure why we would talk about tinkering with an (overall) very successful starting staff.
(Waterloo, Ontario)
MW: Because everybody wants to make a trade, and few people realize the utility in keeping Burnett and taking a draft pick or two over moving him “while you can get something for him”.
- Scott BrownAlso, I’m just wondering your feelings are on interleague play?
MW: Asked and answered.
- andrewMichael Nakamura breaking kneecaps in the 7th, then its on to Valerio De La Santos and Kerry “Bring Down the Thunder” Ligtenberg setting up Terry Adams for the win.
MW: It was actually Micheal, and de los Santos, but thanks for the trip down bad-memory lane, I guess.
- Jay MoneyHi Mike!
I know you’re a stickler for well written posts, and I sense the ‘a’ vs ‘an’ talk will become fierce!
To clarify post #28, here’s the rule:
You use ‘a’ when the next word does not sound like it starts with a vowel (a hotel, a union, a mirror)
You use ‘an’ when the next word sounds like is starts with a vowel (an honest, an ugly, an MLB)
Bought to you by the Letter A and the Number 14.
Aneez
PS – FYI – I went 2 for 3 in softball on Monday, with an E. I let an easy fly ball sail over my glove. grrrr…. Luckily the 2 hits were inside the park HRs! :D
Will you be keeping us updated with your softball stats?
MW: If you want, I guess I could. And in the big leagues, that fly ball that sails over your glove is called a base hit.
- AneezWhere in thornhill do you play? (if you don’t mind my asking)
MW: This week we were at Garnet A. Williams, but it moves around, and not always within Thornhill.
- DavidMike
I’m going to a game in Boston in 3 weeks. Any recommendations for restaurants etc. before or after the game?
Is John Gibbons going to ruin the pen before August?
Litsch has a 4 hitter going and he pulls him early(shouldn’t have). Then Halladay goes out early (and should have) but they have to use all their arms over 2 days? He is puzzling.
MW: Go to P.F. Chang’s! Failing that, hit the Boston Chowdah Co. at Fanueil Hall (not a real restaurant, but good). No, Gibbons isn’t going to ruin the ‘pen before August. Carlson maybe, but not the rest of them.
- The ChadI think its hilarious that we find solstice in the fact that we can refer to the jays as the 4th place jays. You were on that kick a few years ago about how significant it was that they finished 2nd…..it meant nothing then and this means nothing now. Let me know when they are contending.
MW: I’m still looking for solstice, I thought that was about five weeks away.
- KevinTo be honest, notwithstanding the outcome, I don’t think taking a walk is so great in that scenario, with Velandia on deck and Inglett a possible PH. Of course, Overbay had no choice because it was intentional, but then it’s nothing to praise him for either. I just feel like a good hitter should be able to hit a close pitch slightly off the plate if he needs to. The truth is that half of the balls they call are actually strikes, so a hitter sometimes seems to have a choice between taking a pitch belt high for a ball or smacking it for a home run. But now I digress to a separate, sad state of affairs in baseball generally…
Sorry about Reed Johnson. It was a one year deal, but it was worth $3.275 million, almost as much as the two-year contract that McDonald has.
MW: Except that Reed’s was non-guaranteed, so it only cost them about $535,000 to release him at the end of spring. And please tell me you don’t really think a hitter would rather take a belt-high pitch for a ball than hit it out.
- ShmuelMike,
Regular caller into the show, although I’ve only been able to get through once this season.
We spoke the night of the home opener and I made a comment about how the Tampa Bay Rays were much improved and as a result will have a definite impact on the outcome of the AL East.
You openly squashed that comment as ridicules and pre-mature.
Understanding that it is only mid-May, I don’t see how there is any way you can dismiss that with a 24-17 record I may have been onto something and could potentially be right.
I will continue to monitor the Rays through the season, simply b/c of how you openly embarrassed yourself as a self-proclaimed ‘expert’ of the AL East without giving proper credit to one of the young, up-coming teams in the division.
In the future you should not be so quick to dismiss your callers opinions/questions as sometime they may be onto something (Especially this one, as I continually show you up).
Jesse from Aurora.
p.s. stop wearing the skirt and quit being so soft on Zaun and the rest of the Jays.
MW: Any reason you had to throw in a comment that’s demeaning to women at the end? It kind of takes the shine off you thinking that you might be right because the standings in the middle of May count for so much towards the playoffs. I still think the idea that Tampa Bay will be a factor this season is very, very pre-mature. Remember, three years ago the Orioles were first in the middle of June, and they finished 21 games out.
- Jesse from AuroraHello again, Mike. Thanks for the answer above. I just wanted to let you know that I’m hoping you’ll be an inspiration in our house. I have been after Mr. Kita (not his real name, I swear!) to play softball; there’s a fun men’s beer league here, but he refuses. He says he’ll play regulation baseball or nothing, the snob. However, once he knows that YOU, the household baseball guru, play softball, that could change, and I can sit in the stands and laugh my a…. I mean, support him lovingly. Thanks Mike!
MW: It’s too bad, I’d prefer to be playing the real thing, but given my lack of ability to commit to even a half-season, I can’t do it.
- kitaMIke -
I have read a few articles today online in regard to Matt Holliday being maybe avalible. If Holliday is on the trading block, do you make the call and see what the Rockies want for him? I would love to get a guy of his age/talent and character on this team. What do you think the Jays would have to give up?
I was thinking maybe Carlson, Romero and Lind. Maybe a bit more is needed. Thanks
MW: Asked and answered.
- JonathanI was watching the second game of the Twins’ series on MLB.TV and they showed the Twins’ telecast, not quite as fun for a Jays’ fan. But they had Jack Morris come in for a couple of innings, and he’s one of the most unreserved guys I’ve ever heard on TV. No harm intended, but making fun of people and the like. I couldn’t believe my ears, but he essentially accused Joe Carter of “Hollywood showboating” when he hit the World Series clinching homer. Just thought you’d be interested.
MW: I find it incredible that Jack Morris has found a post-playing career in the media, given how belittling he was to reporters during his playing career.
- ShmuelIt would be great to see all 173 of the BlueJays games this year, but like you mention, a few years ago we would be lucky to see the Jays and the Expos twenty times combined. I guess we shouldn’t complain too much, see as the last 20 games in a row were televised nationally.
I was listening to the podcast of Wed with JP, and I liked the comments from the caller from Winnipeg. He reminded JP that the Jays are not only Toronto’s team, but are Canada’s team, and it would be great to see an offseason caravan or some such again. I’d like to second than motion.
MW: The caravan idea is an outstanding one. 173 games, though?
- Leggy LaGamThere seems to be little appreciation for your 2 for 4 performance; if real softball (windmill pitching) that is an impressive performance and a tip of the cap to you. Now if it was slo-pitch, not only would it be John MacDonald-esque, but in my league, the strikeout would have cost you a round at the pub.
MW: It’s modified, so what does it mean?
- Steven Zerkerp.s.
Where do I send my resume to get one of those scouting jobs in India?
MW: Blue Jays, Rogers Centre
- Leggy LaGamI understand the frustration of not being able to watch one game out of a weeks worth of games but I think we just need to relax. I’ve lived in Africa and the states and have gotten used to following the Jays by online boxscores and 1 week old newspapers. So everyone in the GTA who is whining about missing one game on TV…put a sock in it, you have nothing to complain about.
And Mike, how flattered are you that there are almost as many comments in today’s blog about your softball career as there are about the Jays? lol
MW: I should have lied and said I went four-for-four.
- B-rad from CalgaryMike
first time posting…great blog by the way.
The one good thing about the Blue Jays playing the Phillies this weekend, they won’t have to face Cole Hamels. I watched some of the Phillies-Braves game last night and Hamels was lights out. His curve and change up are phenomenal.
Ted Robinson writes a blog on MSNBC and one of his latest topics was “Promising young arms” but he made no mention of Shaun Marcum. I took it upon myself to remind him of Marcum’s 4-2 record and 2.22 era, as well as the fact that during his last 4 starts the guy was practically unhittable. Marcum is a joy to watch…nothing seems to bother him. That’s the type of guy you want in the #2 spot.
cheers
Tom
MW: Marcum is definitely a joy to watch, but since he plays in Toronto, nobody knows who he is. Only something like 4% of respondents to a poll south of the border thought the Jays had the best rotation in the league.
- TomHey Mike,
You playing with B’nai Brith up here in Thornhill?
MW: Yep.
- TrevorMike I’m looking forward to watching Purcey and Burnett hit I don’t care if they are almost automatic outs its just fun to watch the pitchers you cheer for all the time hit once and awhile.
P.S. are you still on the Hill is a more then avgerage MLB hitter band wagon??? or you wanna come over to my side?
MW: Because six weeks means so much?
- Dan M.Just commenting on the Jays Radio in Ontario – I’m moving to New Zealand for my masters, is there XM radio or something so I don’t have to shill out to MLB?
MW: Isn’t XM radio way more expensive than $15 a year for mlb.com?
- Sam McLeanThis is probably the stupidest post I’ve made, but to make a hockey comparison – the salary cap in the NHL has brought in parity
1) would the MLBPA ever accept a salary cap? To be honest, I’m a little suprised that they’ve accepted drug testing, I thought the union would just refuse
MW: The salary cap in the NHL hasn’t brought in parity, the Red Wings are still going to the Finals.
- Sam McLeanKen Rosenthal (he is usually very good) wrote on his blog that the Rockies will be shopping Matt Holiday and mentions the Jays as a potential suitor.
Obviously, this would be a great add for the Blue Jays if they could afford him. We need the offense, after all. Do we have what they are looking for? We have a surplus of good bullpen arms (Brandon League, Brian Tallet, etc). We also have a few prospects, but I would be against giving up Brett Cecil.
MW: You guys need to read the comments before posting!
- Jim BMike what do the jays see in Mench and Wilkerson that they did not already have in johnson? I get the Shannon Stewart thing but if we were going to go and get 2 washed up bums anyway why not keep johnson?
MW: It’s not that they chose Mench and Wilkerson over Johnson. When they decided to keep Stewart over Johnson, they were looking at a platoon left-fielder against lefties that might be forced into everyday duty, and Stewart was the better option. They didn’t anticipate releasing Frank Thomas, moving Matt Stairs to the DH spot and needing a platoon mate for him. Mench fills that role nicely, and Wilkerson was a shot in the dark, freely available talent that the Jays are paying just a little more than 10% of what they’d have had to pay Reed.
- kevinI know you mentioned Holliday doing well only in Coor’s field but wouldn’t he flourish playing in a “hitters ballpark” like the Rogers centre?
I would take Bay over him anyday though…and my guess is that the price for either would be pretty substancial…
MW: It would be substantial. Rogers Centre is a hitters’ park, but it’s not Coors.
- RandyNo, of course I don’t actually think that a player would prefer to take a ball than hit a homerun. I’m just trying to emphasize something that’s been bothering me for years: namely, that umpires call balls “high” on pitches that are clearly strikes. Often they call balls on pitches that are belt high and right down the pipe. I don’t know what’s going on in the head of a hitter, but just look at where the pitches are that guys get hits on, homeruns or not. Actually, Vernon Wells is a good example, though perhaps an extreme one, since he likes it higher than most. If you throw him a fastball just above the belt he’ll probably send it into the second deck at Rogers’ Center.
MW: The belt has become the upper edge of the strike zone, which I find to be very, very weird.
- ShmuelHonestly Mike I’m not making my Aaron Hill is an avg. hitting secound basemen based on the first five weeks of the season. I’m making the based on his whole collage minor league and major league carrerr so far and what type of projection I see out of him.
The Baltimore team of three years ago is much different then the Tampa team of this year. Tampa’s question mark coming into the season was pitching and defence and so far their defence and pitching has been remarkable and that was with out their ace for chunk of this young season. I’m with you that its way premature to crown them A.L. east champions but I don’t think you should wright them off completely either.
MW: I’m not wrighting them off completely, but I’m saying they won’t be a factor in a playoff race. I think it’ll be an outstanding achievement if the Rays win 85 games this season, but all this talk about them being contenders now means that that great result, and missing the playoffs by 5-7 games, will be a disappointment. You’re free to hold that opinion of Aaron Hill – no one I have spoken to who makes his living in baseball, with the Jays or elsewhere, agrees.
- Dan M.What are the odds the jays pull off a blockbuster from now until the July 31 trade deadline. Higher than 50-50 or lower?
MW: A blockbuster? Much lower.
- aviLOL!!
I want to second the motion to have Mike Wilner keep us updated on his softball stats. And seeing that he plays shortstop, I think a comparison between “M. Whizzle” and Johnny Mac is in order as well!
Have a great weekend Wilnerites!
KK
MW: I’ll outhit Johnny Mac, but it’s semi-old man softball. Defensively, it’s not close.
- karim kanjiWhat do you think of the Jays maybe picking up Barry Bonds or Matt Holliday?
(runs)
MW: Very cute.
- AlexI presume the 173 game reference would signify 162 regular season games and then 11-0 in the playoffs.
And I take SOLACE in my memories of Mark Hendrickson’s HR during interleague play. It almost lets me forget how much laughter-induced pain I was in after Todd Stottlemyer bloodied his chin during the World Series with what could possibly be considered the worst slide in the history of baseball.
MW: That was pretty awesome.
- JamesFor all those of you who still want Matt Holliday, let’s take a look at it from Colorado’s perspective. Their bullpen’s been pretty decent so far compared to their starting pitching, so forget about the extra bullpen arms we have.
They’re going to want a starter. I don’t think they’ll take Litsch, Marcum, Purcey, Romero or Burnett. I’m not arguing who’s better than who, but we all know how scouts love “stuff” and particularly the “stuff” of Dustin McGowan. I think that’s what you’re looking at and if J.P. pulls off that move I think we can all agree he’s tied the can to himself.
Kind of brings back memories of Rios for Lincecum/Cain don’t it? I’m sure Brian Sabean would’ve been an offseason “Splash-Down” in McCovey Cove had that one come to be. Just as I would hope J.P. would take a bath in the toxic soup known as Lake Ontario should he consummate this one. If you’re going to be trading away one of the cheap/under control starting pitchers in this organization, there better be more coming this way than a LF who’s about to get quite pricey. Just my opinion, feel free to disagree.
MW: You’re being harsh, but you’re right, although I don’t think either trade is a job-losing move for either G.M. Heck, they didn’t fire Sabean after he gave Aaron Rowand all that money.
- Tom Jacksonhey Mike, a couple of questions:
1. what are your thoughts on B. Cecil, J. Jackson, T. Snider( major league arrival time, ceilings .. )
2. any chance of the AAA team moving Canada (Ottawa, Montreal, K/W …) instead of Buffalo
3. is there any type of scouting in India as a possible expoitable market (not sure how transferrable the skill sets in cricket is to baseball – i saw t.v. show “mlb million dollar arm” and the guys were bringin’ the heat)
4. and could you punch R. Griffin in the face for me
… thanks, much appreciated
MW: Cecil could be up later this year, but I doubt it. I think we’ll see him and Snider at some point in 2009, probably Cecil first. I’d be stunned if Jackson was up before 2010. I doubt that the AAA team will move to Canada, though I’d love to see it. J.P. Ricciardi dismissed India/Pakistan as an untapped trove of baseball talent for at least a couple of generations, and no. I actually like Rich Griffin, and he outweighs me.
- happyYou still think the idea that Tampa Bay will be a factor this season is very, very pre-mature.
Well saying they will not be a factor is very very pre-mature as well.
I generally agree with you that come the end of the season they will be in 3rd or 4th. However to compare them to the orioles is very wrong. The Orioles were just a bad club of veterans who had a lucky couple months and came back down to earth. The Rays on paper have a good team, and they have a young team (Garza, Shields, Sonnanstine, BJ, Longoria) who has not really established a baseline of performance. Anyways I think they will finnish fourth but they have the potential not finish higher.
Its always scary picking up someone from the rockies(Dante Bichette), lets hope JP doesn’t make a panic trade. On the other hand when considering picking up someone from the Padres its best to look at road splits as well(where Khalil Greene looks much better).
Long Live Joe Inglett
MW: Sure the Orioles of ’05 are different from the Rays of ’08, one team was old and playing over its head, the other team is young and playing over its head.
- PeeWee“Greene has a .308 lifetime obp – no thanks, the Jays already have John McDonald.”
Blue Jays are getting on base and not scoring. Don’t you think we need an impact bat that can knock in some of the dudes on base?
Plus… I don’t think Johnny Mac can hit 15+ home runs (or the 27 that Greene finished with last year… w/ 81 games @ PETCO), or knock in 70+ RBIs.
I didn’t know OBP was the only thing you looked at…
MW: Yup, it’s the only thing that matters. And Khalil Greene is NOT an impact bat.
- ErikDo you think David Purcey will have a spot on the active roster if he pitches well?
MW: Nope. Whose spot would you have him take? That is, if the question wasn’t moot.
- Brett VMike, what do you think is the “sexiest” baseball skill. Which one would you want the most? Personally, I’d rather field like J-Mac or Rolen than hit like a Pujols.
By the way, Rolen-McDonald has gotta be the best field left-side fielding duo ever. I don’t even think I’m being biased or exaggerating. Actually, the entire infield might be the best in a long time. All gold-glove fielders.
MW: I don’t think you’re exaggerating at all, though Mark Belanger and Brooks Robinson would probably argue with you. I’d rather hit like Pujols.
- ShawnHey Mike,
Maybe I missed something but why is Purcey starting? Who’s out? If Purcey proves to be good, is there maybe a deal to be made sending a pitcher for a slugger?
MW: Purcey is starting because the Jays don’t have a starting pitcher who has four days’ rest because of Monday’s doubleheader.
- Scotty MacIf you were to get a left fielder and you only have two choices. Matt Holliday or Adam Dunn and why?
MW: Dunn, because he rakes righties.
- andrewHi Mike,
Yes your right solstice is June 21. I don’t understand some fans wanting to tamper with our pitching in a trade for a so-called big bat. It SEEMS good hitters are a dime a dozen compared to good pitchers. Take away our most potent weapon pitching and the Jays would have no hope. I’d have to wait until solstice for the CFL to start as I hate hockey and don’t care for the NBA after the Rapters call it a year. Ya
got to protect the plate Mike with two strikes on ya, I’m pounding my fist like Steinbrenner. Maby all his work in the 90′s (his role on Seinfeld and running the Yankees) was too stressful. Then again recently watching the Blue Jays go 0 for 31 innings maby caused you to subconsciously immitate them.
There is no reason to be playing the Phillies every year. Those big 6 games back in 1993 were before most of us were born. There is three big games at home against the Angels next week that neither RSO, or TSN or CBC want? I guess you have to buy a ticket.
MW: Compared to great, cheap young pitching, you’re right, big bats are a dime a dozen. I WAS protecting the plate – the pitch was letter-high and about 8 inches off the plate.
- Larry MurrWhat exactly does “modified” mean? I’m a softball pitcher and our rule is you need to start with both feet on the rubber, so there’s none of that running momentum. You at SS? Who woulda thunk it? I guess Herbal really was Magic, or were you always a SS? 2 errors at SS in the Bnai Brith league is pretty damn good!
MW: I was a catcher in fast-pitch, but have played short in modified/old-man softball for the last 15 years or so, even when I checked in ar 225. Modified is fast pitchish, no windmill.
- AriEven though you think Adam Dunn is better then Matt Holliday,do you think that someone will end up overpaying for matt holliday and do you think Matt Holliday will command a bigger package then Adam Dunn?
MW: Yes, I do – to both.
- andrewI personally don’t feel like you’re the right man for this job because you don’t live at the SkyDome.
MW: It’s a good point, but I’m moving in next week.
- AndyMike,
Todays game was just an ugly game with a capital U. I did not see all of the game but when i flipped the tv on it was 8-0! What is up with that? My question is do you think David Percy will get another start any time soon in the majors after that performance? Or will he get sent right down in a few days/tomorrow? Thanks
MW: He’s probably already been sent down, but he was going to be anyway.
- StevenDon’t you think it’s kind of sad that Purcey is currently our best pitching prospect. First of all, the publications like Baseball America do not hold him in high regard. Secondly, his control is awful and has been throughout his career. It kind of shows you Ricciardi’s draft record in a nutshell. Granted, hes only had two ML starts, but if he was good, he would come with more hype. Hes simply not as good as you say he is. He might develop into a 4th or 5th starter but their are tons of those in the majors. The Blue Jays should trade for an impact bat. One more thing. Why is it that the Jays have really struggled in Interleague play in recent years? Is it b/c of Gibbons inability to manage?
MW: As good as I say he is? How good have I said he is? The guy has had two crappy starts in the big leagues, you might want to check Chris Carpenter’s first couple of career starts, or starts numbers 2 through 7 of Dustin McGowan’s career. A rough start to a career is no indication of how the career will go. I don’t know if Purcey is going to be all that good, but I do expect that he’ll contend for a spot in the rotation next season. Yeah – clear indicator of Ricciardi’s ability to draft in a nutshell, or maybe Shaun Marcum could be an example.
- aviMike,
Get it through your thick head, the jays DO NOT have the hitting required to make the playoffs. Do you want to make a bet?
MW: I love people who start with insults and finish with questions. I also love Bruno, especially since I think he’s left multiple comments after every Jays’ loss this season, but has only commented once after a win.
- brunoI know it’s early in the season, but who do you think is the best hitter in mlb this season? I think it either chipper jones or Chase utley? Also, about mvp voting. i feel that mvp voting is based too much on teams making the playoffs. For example, the Phillies made the playoffs last year and Jimmy Rollins gets the mvp trophy when he probably wasn’t the best hitter on his team, never mine in the NL. If the Phillies did not make the playoffs last year, there isn’t even a chance that Jimmy Rollins get the mvp. Even Chase Utley or Ryan Howard was better then him, but because of intanglibles such as Jimmy Rollins leadership, he gets the mvp which I don’t get. Can you weigh in your thoughts on mvp voting?
MW: I think a lot of voters believe a player’s team has to be in the playoffs, or at least to be in a race right until the very end, in order for that player to be the MVP, unless a guy on a non-contender has a year that’s head and shoulders better than anyone else’s. I don’t think that’s the right way, but the definition of MVP is so vague. Intangibles such as Rollins’ “perceived” leadership, by the way.
- andrewHey, Mike:
Look on the bright side — the Jays won the last two-thirds of the game!
MW: Woo-hoo!
- NormMike,
What do you think of a season being 162 games long?
40 games means very little. 81 games mean a bit more.
I think that 0.520 and 0.480 teams cannot be separated by 162 games.
What do you think?
MW: I think it’s the greatest test of which team is best of any major professional sport in the world.
- GregJPBy saying he is the Jays best pitching prospect you are implying that Purcey is at least supposed to be good. I think that if Purcey is really the Jays best pitching prospect that demonstrates a lack of depth in the farm system. Think about it, the guy has walked 11 batters in 2 starts in the big leagues. What is his career potential if he has major control issues ? At most, a 4th starter? Hes already 25 or 26. How much room is their to grow? Is that what you want from your supposed best pitching prospect. Where are the impact pitchers currently in the jays system? The guys with no.1 starter potential. Their are none b/c Ricciardi does not like to take risks in the draft. BTW, Marcum was not supposed to be this good. He really improved his changeup since college and thats what allowed him to take the next step. At least thats what Keith Law said.
MW: Uh-huh, so Marcum doesn’t count. You can’t take ANYTHING from a guy’s first couple of starts in the major leagues, you just simply can’t. Maybe Purcey’s not the best of the Jays’ pitching prospects, but he’s the one closest to being able to help the big club.
- aviDo you think Chipper Jones a hall of famer in your mind despite the fact he has yet to hit 400 homers or get 2200 hits?
MW: I think he’s close. Lifetime .300 hitter, lifetime .950 OPS, Top 11 in MVP voting eight times, lifetime .870 OPS in the post-season.
- andrewDoes Purcey have any trade value remaining after tonights game? You have been saying that Purcey and Lind would be too much for Bay or Dunn, but after tonight would anybody even look at Purcey?
MW: People who actually make trades in major-league baseball know to look at more than two games. After Roger Clemens’ first six career starts, he had a 7.13 ERA.
- Sam McLeanMike,
do you see wilkerson sticking around?
MW: We’re still talking over a month away.
- AndyThanks for your answer Mike, I was wondering because of how it has been said (I think by you but I’m not sure) that neither Reed Johnson or Frank Thomas had any trade value at all, how that might reflect on the rest of the Blue Jays who are struggling. It’s probably that being from Toronto I’m inclined to give up on athletes the moment they start to struggle
MW: I don’t think it’s just about being from Toronto. I think every fan does it, unless it’s a guy they love who is struggling, in which case they don’t see it.
- Sam McLean