6:05 PM Eastern
To commemorate the day, I’m going to spend as much time as I can with my kids. So no bloggage today, except to remind you to listen to The Blue Jays This Week at 7:05 PM Eastern, featuring Fathers Past, Present and Future with Brian Butterfield, David Eckstein and John McDonald.
I may weigh in tomorrow with something about the A.J. Burnett crapstorm that will hit thanks to his comments, which I will tell you now I think will be way overblown.
Here’s The JaysTalk:
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Comments are encouraged, as always, but I won’t be touching them until Monday.
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Mike,
I just read Burnett’s comments on Jordan’s blog. It will be overblown. I only wonder if he was asked about it or just stated that out of the blue. If anything it just cements the thought that he will opt-out of his contract but that’s all it does. As long as he continues to pitch with max effort I will be ok with him on this team. I’m bias though, i’m actually a fan of his.
MW: He was asked by a Chicago reporter.
- DilsonMike:
I was just listening to TBJTW and your interview with Brian Butterfield and couldn’t help but notice that the conversation turned to Matt Stairs (I believe) and having guys on the team that “will do anything to win” and “only think about winning when they’re out there on the field”. He mentioned that the more guys you have like that on the team the better your chances are of handling the trophy at the end of the season. Funny how you didn’t take that opportunity to laugh at him and let him know that those things DON’T MATTER and DON’T help you win AT ALL like you always tell your callers/ posters. Sounds like he’s been watching too much hockey lately bringing all these intangibles into the conversation. How can the bench coach of the team possibly feel that way? Tell him to stick with the facts and the stats Mike.
Secondly, assuming that he doesn’t have anything to do with the pitching staff, you said he was in charge of the infield and he said “it’s great to have all these young guys to work with”. Who exactly other than the pitchers are young with the exception of Rios and Hill? Maybe my interpretation of a young baseball player is different than his but I think once you’re over 30 and have played 6 or 7 years in the majors you’re not exactly a young player anymore.
MW: I think he meant young as in age (relative to him) rather than young in the game. As to the first point, I went to him to talk, he didn’t call me.
- Peter B.Oh, Mike,
Overblown or not overblown who cares that’s media and fanatic fans for ya. He said he would welcome a trade out of here. Never should of said it in any terms, behind a joke there is some truth. JP, has said in the past, he wants players who want to be here and AJ doesn’t. We’re reading the same words by AJ as you. What spin will you put on it Oh, Mike? It should be interesting, you know that saying it will go in one ear and out the other. MAYBE AJ feels he can get national exposure and more wins on The Cubs that may take him to the World Series which is INSURANCE for that big contract he’ll get when he opts out. I don’t blame him for that but get rid of him. Don’t worry Oh, Mike this team needs several changes on and off the field. It’s JP’s team so he’s one that has to go. I don’t blame Gibbons, he’s doing the best job with the team given to him.
MW: Burnett was asked a question, and he answered. We can’t jump on athletes for giving bland cliche answers to most questions and then also jump on them for telling the truth. The first words out of his mouth were, basically, “Right now, I’m a Blue Jay, and I’m completely committed to being a Blue Jay. Unless that changes” What’s wrong with that?
- brunoHi Mike, hope you’re having (had) a great Fathers Day.
Burnett would like to play for the Cubs? Currently, the best team in MLB. I wonder what percentage of players also want to be Cubs this year. 90%?
I applaud his honesty, and expect him to win some more games for the Jays.
Steve
MW: It’s not like he came out and said “trade me to Chicago”.
- SteveWMike, why do you always insist on taling about what players did last year. That has no bearing on what is happening now. Never have or never will. Fans don’t care about what Shannon Stewart did last year, or two years before that. They care about this year. And quite simple, it is not enough. While Reed Johnson may never be the hitter that Stewie is, fans I believe were upset about him being released beacuse of the intangibles he brings to the game. He bunts, one of the better ones in the league, he can throw, heck my arm is better that Shannon’s, Reed hustles, he does the things that don’t show up on the scoreborad or card, but help a team win. So, again, I say, people don;t care about last year, it is all about now.
MW: The Blue Jays never won a thing with Reed Johnson in the line-up, but he leaves and he can walk on water?
- Jason DeneaulHappy Father’s Day Mike! Hope you had a great day with your kids.
I didnt know until today that David Eckstein wrestled in TNA(Total non-stop Action) for couple of days and was in Jay Leno’s show after winning the world series. Interesting eh?
Have you ever misspelled/mispronounced Fukudome?
MW: No, I leave that to the outdoor stadium lobbyists.
- BeburgObviously you’re gonna talk about how AJ didn’t mean anything by his comments….but it is clear that the guy is going to opt out of his contract at the end of this year.
We won’t be close at the deadline (though the season is still early in your books)
Why not try to trade him sooner, rather than later and get a bat in the lineup. Bring Purcey up, though his MLB numbers are terrible, he’s just about major league ready. Let me know what you think
MW: If you can do better than the two draft picks the Jays are likely to get when A.J. walks, then they should deal him closer to July 31st if they’re out of the race (which they’re not even close to being out of, currently).
- FraserHappy Father’s Day Mike!!!!
- ZacharyHey
- PaulI was at the game friday and i dont know if anyone caught this. But in between one of the innings they did a flashback minute and showed the Jays playoff highlights from 92. When they showed the final out the announcer said the tying run was on second but the tying run was on third. Im not sure if anyone else caught that little mistake.
Mike,
Between ss, c, and lf, the former two are far more important, especially for this pitching staff.
When will the Jays end their love affair with Brad W? Why not slide Zaun back behind the plate, give Barajas DH duty, and let Stairs play LF.
With Wells and Rios out there again, the OF is already pretty rangy and I don’t think having Matt Stairs out there is going to really hurt the team.
BTW – Your pal Elliotte Friedman is a breath of fresh air. I’ve been waiting for someone to fill Schulman’s shoes, I think he may be the guy.
Thanks.
MW: I was kind of hoping I’d be the guy.
- JasonHello Mike,
Happy Father’s Day!!
After watching the weekend series with the “Cubbies” fans in the stadium I realize that the Jays are playing the role of impostors to contending in the AL East.Be it due to player injuries,lack of hitting or lack of luck this team needs a
major shakeup from top to down.
May I quote a former Jay player: “The ship is sinking”.
MW: And Cubs fans at Rogers Centre made you realize this?
- MarkThe weekend was Revenge of the Ex Jays…3 wins and 6 losses on a 9 game home stand. Awful
MW: Awful indeed, no two ways about it.
- tom stewartRe 1989 — This team is different from the teams of 2 to 4 years ago, but that does not mean they are likely to pull off a miracle finish. This team’s record over the past few years gives no indication that it can turn it around. Citing 1989 over and over seems to be clutching at straws… you stretch points to sound positive, dismiss the negatives as illogical or simply being premature assessments over a long season. HELLO! This team is under .500 in mid-June. The assessment is about as premature as assessing the Leafs in December, Mike.
MW: Assessing the Leafs in December is INCREDIBLY premature. More than half the bloody teams in that league make the playoffs.
- JohnNow that’s making a statement on a homestand to show you’re ready to start to make a run … 3-6 and a 5th consecutive series loss. What can you expect though against tough opponents like Seattle and Baltimore.
Forget about a trade deadline acquisition, I’ve got an idea. Mike, how about we ask MLB to give the Blue Jays $100 for every time you, JP, or John Gibbons utters any of the following phrases “it’s still early”, “it’s not even the first day of summer yet”, “don’t worry, the offense has to turn it around”, “the team can’t be this bad”, and my personal favourite “it’s amazing how good the Jays are with the hitting performing so poorly”. If we take that money (which should come out to a few million easily) we can add that to next year’s payroll and then see if JP can go out and get someone who can hit more than just singles and maybe drive in a few runs when the opportunity arises. That way, they won’t lose anyone off the roster or any prospects.
MW: FANTASTIC idea, except I want the money, the Jays have enough.
- Peter B.Umm, fathers past? That made it sound made it sound like Brian lost a child, which I truly hope he didn’t.
MW: No, he lost his father. A long time ago.
- JCLPS I don’t blame Burnett for wanting to move to a real baseball city… I’d like to watch baseball in a real baseball city, and outside please. At the same time, I think he’s feeling a bit put out by his treatment by the fans and the media here. Unfortunately we were spoiled by watching an all-star team every night for a few years 15 plus years ago. It was awesome, really special. Watching mediocre ball is kind of depressing by comparison, especially with a team that seems to be ok on paper but is not only underachieving, it also snatches defeat from the jaws of victory. Just win, baby.
– Tired of the excuses.
MW: It would be nice, huh? But I haven’t heard any excuses this year. They’re not hitting, plain and simple.
- JohnJust a couple of comments regarding a caller today who noted that Wells swung at the 1st pitch he saw and you defended Wells by saying he is batting 500 when putting the 1st pitch in play. I say, so what? What is his batting average when he swings at the the first pitch? What is his average with runners in scoring position? In scoring position with 2 outs? These are the important stats.And Wells and most of his team mates are not getting the job done, period. It is Gibbons’ job to correct these deficiencies and he hasn’t and he needs to pay the price and the sooner the better
MW: Right, John Gibbons is a complete failure with a runner on third and less than two out.
- Fred CookIt’s not Wells swinging at the first pitch that bothers me, it’s the fact that he’s gearing up for a fastball down the middle, gets it, and then pops it up. That’s not what he’s being paid a boatload to do.
MW: Fair enough.
- PeterDoes anyone think that in Boston or New York or anywhere else for that matter that within 30 minutes (since it was during Jays Talk) after an embarrasing 7-4 loss to end a horrible 3-6 homestand that the owners would endorse having the players take their dogs on the field to take a crap? Unbelievable … only in Toronto. I wonder if he was in the back playing with his dog during the game since he was only DH’ing.
MW: I don’t think that was the reason Zaun took his dogs on the field.
- Peter B.Here’s my prediction for the next 15. They will go 11-4, giddy up and let’s get back in this race!
When do you think they will get Hill back? This year?
MW: I think Hill will be back this year, but I’ll be surprised if it’s much before the all-star break.
- BartLose J.P or lose fans.
MW: Unless, of course, they start to win.
- Chris JonesMike, what’s your favorite charity? And please don’t say indulging idiots like me.
MW: That wouldn’t be a bad one. I have a lot of favourite charities – the U.J.A, Spinal Cord Research, the Canadian Cancer Society among them.
- Vito From HamiltonHey Mike
Like everyone…love the show. When I was kid a played ball, played a little rep and i even umpired. When I think back to the jays of the late 80′s and the World Series Teams the batting line up was pretty much set. Why does the order seem to get shuffled so much. Why do we have Rios leading off? Maybe im dumb but i don’t get this batting order half of the time, i mean all the time. Keep up the good work blasting the people who are killing time til the leafs start playing again!
regards
MW: The batting order has changed because of injury and ineffectiveness.
- Greghey Mike
Regarding Burnett’s comments…
I could handle the sarcastic hat tip, but I wish AJ would stop making insinuations about Toronto baseball fans. As a big fan myself, I find it to be insulting. (In addition to his words today, I believe he also said “we have fans?” the day of the hat tip)
Yes, the fans are quiet and the attendance is below average, but comments like that just insult the fan base that actually comes out to the games and cares about the team. It’s not constructive, it just seems petulant.
Maybe his comments are going to be overblown by some, but I really do think they’re over the line.
I hope something nice and positive comes out of this team soon. This story just adds to the recent craptacularness.
MW: I don’t think the comments were over the line. The “we have fans?” was pretty bad, though.
- James HHappy Father’s Day Mike and all fathers reading the blog!
For those who are upset with the Eckstein and Stewart signings (and judging by the comments over the last couple days there are a few of you), this team would be no further ahead if Johnson or Johnny Mac were manning those positions. And if you say that you would be happier watching this team with the same winning percentage if those ‘fan favourites’ were starting every day, I won’t believe you and I think you would be kidding yourself.
I’m sure you’ve commented on this before Mike (and if you have I will look for where), but what are your thoughts on Rios so far this year. He’s obviously struggling at the plate, not too bad average wise but he just doesn’t seem comfortable. Is he putting too much pressure on himself, is it mechanical, or is it one of those things that one can’t quite explain.
As always thank-you.
MW: Rios has looked awful. There’s definitely something mechanical going on, but it’s stunning that he hasn’t been able to fix it yet.
- HoweyHappy Father’s Day Mike! I watched the game today – and noticed how awkward and stiff Rolen was while running out of the batters box when he grounded out – I’ll bet you anything his back is acting up – he looks stiff as a board. Not a good sign for a team with Jay lack of hitting. I’ll bet he hits the disabled list shortly. Turf and bad backs are not a good combination.
MW: This turf gets a bad rap, it’s nothing like what they used to play on.
- GaryMike I’m sorry but I’m just really sick of you defending the Vernon Wells contract by saying “it was Market value at the time” why don’t you just say its a horrible contract???
Managements descions can’t be influenced by the fans nor can they be influenced by market value!!!
To let J.P. off the hook for the Wells Contrat because “it was market value at the time” is why some bloggers call you a jays apologist. Please Mike make up something else to defend J.P. with about that contract.
Maybe you should try using “don’t judge a seven year contract in its first year”
MW: Management decisions have to be influenced by the market.
- Dan MMike, you say that it isnt Gibbons fault for the hitting woes etc. and I do agree. However, do you not think that he will be the scapegoat by management to inevidibly turn this team around? And I mean soon, like a month?
MW: It could happen, but it wouldn’t be right.
- DaveTo the best of your knowledge, has short left field been thoroughly disinfected?
Or is it possible this could be J.P.s latest answer in left field?
Sorry couldn’t resist.
MW: I’m sure it will be, unless nobody knows about it.
- ukJayHi Mike,
a couple of weeks ago you wondered if a few poor outings by the pitching staff was possibly another result of not having Zaun behind the plate calling the game. It was an interesting thought, How do you feel about that now?
Personally as for the Defence, Offence debate, i go for the better defensive player, it is a balancing act but, we’re already losing a little range at 2nd without Hill, you can’t really afford to lose it at short as well.
Also, hopefully it says something to your pitchers to give them all the help you can defensivly.
MW: I still think there’s validity to the idea that the pitching dropoff MIGHT have something to do with Zaun’s absence. Regardless of what it says to the pitchers, they can’t do much better.
- ukJayDo you think there’s a possibility A.J. is attempting to do a Hillenbrand?
Or do you think he was simply answering honestly to a slightly underhand set up question?
MW: I don’t think either is true. I doubt he’s trying to pave the road out of here, he can leave in three and a half months if he likes, and I don’t think the question was underhanded. It was an honest answer to a legitimate question.
- ukJayBaloney heart had nothing to do with Reed’s homerun. It take’s all lot of heart to come into your old stomping ground and show up the team that let you go.
MW: Heart had nothing to do with Reed’s home run.
- Michael Krimmermike, regarding reed vs stewy and no this will never end. you keep contradicting yourself. you keep saying that reed was going to be used in a platoon situation with stairs and then keep bringing up his numbers vs righties. what difference does it make his numbers vs righties if he was only going to be used vs lefties? and please STOP using career numbers, they are completely useless. you keep using them as if they are gospel. reed’s 3 year ops vs lefties is significantly higher than stewarts and his ops vs righties is about 10 pts lower. not a big difference. and when you consider reed is much better defensively and much better rbi guy than stewart it’s a no brainer. the only reason stewy is here is because JP wanted a guy that “IF” somebody got injured he could hit righties. It was stupid to even bring stewart into camp because NOBODY wanted him in the first place! and as you can see when reed was released there were a few teams that wanted him right away so you can see who the more valuable player was. And if anyone gets injured JP should know there are always players out there who you can sign like lofton, edmunds, wilkerson.
MW: Edmonds and Wilkerson were both under contract when the Jays signed Stewart, and Lofton was (and might still be) demanding a two-year deal. Reed Johnson has had one-half one one good season against right-handed pitching, EVER. I haven’t contradicted myself once, no matter what you might think. You’re right, though, Stewart was brought in to guard against the possibility of an injury to one of several players or ineffectiveness of the 40 year-olds.
- roccoHi again,
Could you explain to me why J.G. is so in love with the defensive shift? Does it make such a huge difference to an AB? I would love to see the numbers on this.
Some guys are obviously dead pull hitters, but it sucks to see a cheap base hit roll through an unguarded left side.
Thanks
MW: It does suck, but it happens very rarely, and there have been a lot of hits saved by Aaron Hill in short right field with the shift on.
- ukJayHello Mike,
I guess facing Lilly wasn’t enough to wake up the sleeping giants that are the Blue Jay hitters. I don’t want to diminish Lilly’s performance, but he must have been quaking in his boots knowing that the Jays’ monster hitters can’t continue to be as bad as they have been. I mean, its just not possible. So today they Cubs must be thanking their lucky stars that they didn’t high octane Blue Jays offense full of professional hitters that will make you pay for walking the bases loaded and get meaningfull hits when the team is in need of keeping pace. But you know, its a long season and you can’t expect the Jays hitters to deliver everynight.
MW: Nor can you expect them to turn things around on any given night. Because it’s due to happen doesn’t mean it’s going to happen tomorrow.
- JWAJ wants to leave? So what…He’s under contract until 2010 (with an opt out clause,which he will use). Unless JP is offered the Cubs’, Phillies’ , or Yankees’ best prospects ,there is no reason to give up on AJ or the season right now. Let him ride the season out and get the draft picks. Or in my best Bronx English: ” Let da bum rot on our squad , all the way to the playoffs!”
MW: Sounds good to me.
- jayHey Mike, great blog. It definitely helps keep us, at least a few of us, level-headed after the tough games. I was just checking out some numbers and it’s crazy how this team is allowing a quarter of a run per game less than the ’05 White Sox did with a pitching staff that went out of their minds all year. Hoping the record regresses back a little towards the Pythagorean W-L before too long, though there’s still plenty of time left to make a good run of it this year.
MW: Lance Painter? And you call yourself level-headed?
- Lance PainterHi Mike
So in yesterdays Jays game, what do you think the Cubs had that the Jays didnt.
MW: Offense.
- ZerZarHaha, I heard what AJ said on the radio and I knew right away that people will be going nuts over it on here….of course I haven’t seen any responses yet but we know it will happen…Personally I’ve never had a problem with him but he hasn’t been treated fairly here by the fans since he signed on so I wouldn’t blame him for jumping ship and moving on after this season.
MW: Even if he had been treated well by the fans, he’d be jumping ship after this season.
- RandyFirst, AJ Burnett’s comments:
You were bang on, Mike. Way overblown. I’m willing to bet any amount that every single player in the league has another team (or teams) that they would consider an option.
The only issue is that Burnett chose to disclose it. Big deal.
I think the real issue is this: After 71 games, this team is a game below .500, 8.5 back. As a fan, how am I supposed to be optimistic that this team isn’t going to be in the same boat come September?
Do you think this team needs a change and, if so, do you think Ricciardi can make it.
An df you don’t think this team needs a change and is fine as it is, why?
Thanks
MW: I think the team could definitely use the addition of some offense, and I think Ricciardi can make it, but if they’re still under .500 at the all-star break, what’s the point of giving up future to make a run this year? They’re only six games back, though.
- AdrianWow, gotta love AJ’s character. We drive by a business that has a new saying up every week, fitting, this week’s saying is: “Sports doesn’t create character, it reveals it.” Go AJ!!!! That old saying, wherever you go, there you are holds true.
MW: Indeed it does, Buckaroo.
- BobThe Jays are 8.5 games out of first place in last place behind Baltimore. Ouch. Unfortunately, you cannot demote all of the disappointing offensive players, so who is accountable? If this year turns into another mediocre (or less than the usual mediocre standard) season I think we should wait until sometime around next August to buy our flex packs… only if the team is competitive.
MW: Who’s accountable? The disappointing offensive players.
- DanHey Mike,
I love hearing the Jays talk on a nightly basis, it has been especially convenient now that all Jaystalk sessions are posted on the blog.
I want to bring up the Shannon Stewart vs. Reed Johnson debate again and I hope you’ll humour me even though you’ve talked about this ad infinitum.
On March 29th when Reed was let go I, like you, originally agreed with the decision but after looking at some stats I’m not so sure it was the right move at the time.
You’ll agree that they were vying for the left fielder role which was to be shared with Matt Stairs. Stairs would play against righties, and Johnson/Stewart would face a starting left handed pitcher. It makes sense to keep Stewart because of his great hitting against both right and left handers compared to Reed. But because their role at the time was to only face left-handers, the decision isn’t so clear cut. Here’s both players split stats versus left handed pitchers for their careers:
Johnson: .308 avg, .374 obp, .460 slg %, .835 ops
Stewart: .298 avg, .374 obp, .420 slg %, .794 ops
It’s clear that Johnson has better career stats against lefties. Even last year when Reed had the back problem he was markedly better than Stewart versus lefties. Given this information and keeping in mind the role that they were supposed to serve at the beginning of the season, I have to conclude that Reed would have been the correct choice at the time.
In the light of the injuries to outfielders and the releasing of Frank Thomas forcing Stairs into a DH role, Stewart seems to be the right choice because of his stats versus both right and left handers. What are your thoughts on this?
MW: Stewart was kept because the Jays anticipated that whoever won the platoon LF job was eventually going to be pressed into full-time duty because Thomas and Stairs are 40, Overbay is coming off a bad hand and the whole world got hurt last year.
- MarcHi Mike:
Some random thoughts about the current flock of Blue Jays (or should it be “Black Jays” due to the horrible and depressing feature-colour of their uniforms)?
This team is mediocre at best. It’s “talent” (save for the majority of the pitching staff) is over-rated – particularly by Ricciardi.
Quick survey – Barajas, Zaun, Overbay, Hill, are “average”. Wells, Stairs and Rolen are slipping in their careers, possibly due to the injuries they sustained, but Wells is still the best they have. Rios is a mystery, but whose talent might be over-estimated.
Eckstein and Stewart are past their prime. The rest of the squad, save for MacDonald who looks like a good utility guy for late innings, is not worth mentioning.
Worse, they have virtually no position player talent in the higher farm system to bring up. Lind is doing well but can’t seem to hit big-league pitching. Snyder, might be the best prospect, if and when.
In the recent past the Jays farm system has been described from being a “train wreck” to ranking 28 out of 30 major league teams. It might not be that far from that now, if you read the Internet baseball gurus. The Jays do seem to have some good prospects in the low minors, but they are about 3-4 years away.
So, that brings us to Ricciardi, who has to accept blame for the status of this team and of the farm system. Ricciardi does not impress as someone who can truly assess talent although that is supposedly his strength. However, that may be because Ricciardi has been labelled by writers as “a legend in his own mind” with “an ego as big as the CN Tower”. You might want to read Baseball America’s assessment of this year’s number one draft pick, David Cooper.
On top of that he has made some bad signings of free agents and as many bad trades as Gord Ash, excepting Ash’s “worse trade in Toronto professional sports franchise history”, the Michael Young trade to Texas.
So in the years Ricciardi has been here, his track record is no better than the aforementioned Ash. The point is, he was brought in to be better than Ash and in that he has failed.
If he is still here at the end of the year and beyond he might redeem himself about the year 2010 or later, assuming those lower minor league prospects are just that and that no further dumb trades or free agent signings are made during that period. However, no money should be bet on any of this.
Let’s not worry about adding a bat or two for this year. Would it really help if the team if the team continues at a .500 clip? Better to blow up the whole team at the end of the season and start from scratch, with or without Ricciardi (although he deserves to be fired). And the first thing that should be done is put the blue back into the Blue Jay uniforms!
1977 to 1993 – 16 years of growth, progress and success. 1994 to 2008 – 14 years of mediocrity and stagnation.
Vince,
Milton ON
MW: I think you’re severely underrating Rios, and Eckstein is coming off a career-high .301 batting average. Wells is only 29, it’s very hard to imagine that he’s on the downslope of his career. Blowing the whole thing up would be idiotic. I’ll grant you, if you want to change around the offense, that’s fine, but why would you blow up this pitching staff?
- Vince MacysHappy belated father’s day Mike!
Do you think Tiger Woods will be available at the trade deadline?
MW: That’d fill some seats.
- MarkMike,
Telling stat posted on teh CBC broadcast, showing a split of the months. RISP in April .211, record 11-17. RISP in May .273, record 20-10. RISP so far in June (not counting the 1 for 8 in Sunday’s ballgame) .190, record 4-8, now 4-9. There is the story of the whole season. Now below .500 and the Yanks are getting on a bit of a roll.
Chatted with a friend of mine about signing Bonds. The problem is that we don’t need another guy with a high OBP, we need someone who can hit with RISP, and no one will pitch to Bonds, so the other guys in the lineup will have to pick it up anyway.
It would also be nice when the full lineup is in there for an extended period of time. The injury bug has to stop biting at some point.
How long before Halliday requests that MacDonald becomes his SS every start? People talk about his bat being a black hole in the lineup, but this whole lineup is an offensive blackhole, and he would have prevented 4 runs with his glove. That can’t be overlooked.
It is tough when I am watching the game, see them get down 3 eaerly and think the game is over.
Hope you had a good Father’s Day.
- Aaron KerI have to disagree with a caller on last night’s show. As a Dad who loves coming to the Ballpark as often as i can,with my kids whenever i’m in your beautiful country, and who follows the Jays every night on MLB tv, i think charactor is important with the players who represent you. You want your kids to look up to a decent human being, not someone who has cheated, lied, cursed his way to the top. What example is this? I want to win as much as the next fan, but somethings are still more important.
I say no to Bonds!!!!
Do i sound like an old woman?
MW: No, but do you also say no to the other hundreds of players who juiced? And cursed? Seriously? How can you watch pro sports, then?
- ukJayNormally im not a guy that falls for a story that is media drive, created in order to generate something to talk about for the sake of having something to talk about. I think that this is NOT one of those situations however.
AJ is a veteran major league pitcher. He is under contract. His team is in the a competitive one still with playoff aspirations. (you always say the summer hasnt even started). In that landscape any athelete with a brain biggger than a PEA KNOWS NOT TO SAY THE THINGS AJ SAID to that chicago reporter….ESPECIALLY if they are true.
When asked these questions, he should have stopped at this quote which he made..
“I’m a Blue Jay and I’m going to pitch to the best of my ability as long as I’m part of this club,”
thats IT. that answers the question ..period end. BUT he added this
“But if something were to happen and I’d have the opportunity to go to a place where baseball is breakfast, lunch, and dinner, that would be awesome. Right now, my focus is with the club, but if something like that were to happen, I’d accept it with open arms.”
WHAT? translation…. “man…this place sucks..sure im gonna give it the old college “try” while im here, but when i go home and my head hits the pillow..i dream of playing somewhere else where my mediocre performances will be more appreciated”
admit it. its just stuuupid to even go there. this is yet another example of AJ lacking the judgement/intellect to match his arm. can you imagine how he’d perform in a setting like that when he has problems with the media/scrutiny he gets HERE and had received in Florida? becareful what you wish for AJ. im not sure how this can be overblown mike. he said it..and he didnt deny it. problem is him talking like this might ultimately lead to his own trade value declining..so if he wants out..tell him to shut the eff up.
MW: We ask athletes to be more than cliche machines when they’re asked a question, then we crap all over them when they give an honest answer. You can’t win.
- sammy jalalzaiBy the way Mike, you are right, this team is very much different than the one from 5 seasons ago, however, so too is Tampa Bay and Baltimore. They took a different route, and built through hungry, young talented guys. We may have more talented players now, however that is not hard. But I will say we have not made much progress under this regime. I hear Terry Ryan is available.
MW: Terry Ryan’s career record as a GM is under .500.
- BobBelated Happy Fathers Day to you, Mike.
As far as AJ goes, the rats are always the first one to leave a sinking ship. Let him go to whoever wants to pay his ridiculous salary, and give Purcey 15-20 starts.
I’m SOOOOOOOOO tired of this team’s inability to get a hit in just about any situation. Some sort of fungus has obviously infiltrated the club’s bat rack.
Granted, losing 2 of 3 to the Cubs shouldn’t by itself be cause for concern. Losing 2 of 3 to the Mariners is.
Let’s see, now….the Red Sox seem to be pulling away, the Rays appear to be putting the Jays in their rear-view mirrors for the forseeable future, the Yanks are on fire, and even the Orioles (the Orioles, for cryin’ out loud) are currently playing better than the Jays.
May seems like a long time ago……
MW: It does, doesn’t it? But this team is not at all unable to get a hit in just about any situation. They have the 4th-best batting average in the league with nobody on base!
- FoxyHi Mike,
Great pre pre-game with the father’s day theme. I called to tell you my Grant Field playing experience with my pops out beyond right field, but remembered later I should have told you about the time my dad, brother and I drove north from Chicago (we were in town) to see the Jays in Miluakee. I remember we bought our tickets from a Toronto scalper (who my dad happen to know) who also was in town and thought he would sell a few tickets while he was there. We ended up getting our photo taken with Otto Velez during the BP. Summer of 1980 I believe.
Anyway, I digress. Enjoy your work.
Garry
- GarryHey Mike –
Happy Fathers Day!
I know this question is regarding the game Halladay pitched, but will ask anyway. What is your take on the rumours that the scorers intentionally try and keep Halladay’s ERA low – case in point – scoring the ball hit to Eckstein as an error but not until AFTER Reed hit the homerun. I’m not saying I agree, but thought it might be worth mentioning.
Thanks,
James
MW: It’s because the scorer can’t look at a replay until after the inning is over, at least in Toronto. That play was 100% an error, and should have been scored so from the beginning.
- James F.Hi Mike,
I often hear you ask callers if they know how hard it is to play in the Major Leagues, to which they reply no, and you say ‘exactly, it is very hard, way over our heads.’
However, I have to point out that in your many critigues of Barajas’ defensive abilities, you mention his seeming inability to catch a ball at home plate for a tag/play-at-the-plate.
While yes, we have seen him drop some balls, I do believe we have also seen him tag out some runners at home plate, as well.
Given what you say to callers, how do you defend critiquing Barajas for his abilities, when you can’t play at the major league level yourself?
Thanks, Mike!
MW: I say that to callers who say stuff like “how hard is it to just hit a fly ball”? People who expect these guys to be able to execute exactly what they want to do at the plate every time, completely ignoring the fact that there’s someone on the mound who gets paid to prevent them from doing exactly that. A reasonable, rational critique can’t be parried with that point.
- JeffAs an Expos fan (and Montreal resident) for most of my life, all I asked was for competitive baseball when I went down to the Big O. Sure, I had a few good years when they were more than just competitive (’93 and ’94 specifically), they were one of the best teams in baseball. But during the final years, I still had Vladdy and Vidro to get excited about, even Wilkerson and Rocky Biddle at the end.
Now living in the GTA, I get to go see the Blue Jays on a regular basis. Love the dome, great location, decent seat prices…but the team this year is letting me down. Sure, they’re only 8 games out of 1st but we all know they ust don’t have enough to get to the top. And the only game I’ve seen them win live was against the Royals (big deal).
I’m trying to get excited about the team, but their lack of consistency is ruining it for me. I’ll still go to the games (love baseball more than I love the Jays), but my optimism is fading.
The last 2-3 yrs you had a feeling that this team was coming together nicely, some great young talent, a couple of superstars..but then injuries crept up and provided management with a great excuse (although they never used it).
It’s time for a revamp. (and NOT just another uniform change)
MW: I love that “we all know they just don’t have enough to get to the top.” I’ll bet lots of Phillies, Cubs and Rockies fans were saying that 366 days ago (it’s a leap year). Thanks for being the first to mention Rocky Biddle in this blog, though! Loved the burns!
- Chris in WhitbyThe Jays better make some serious upgrades to their offence for next season because the pitching simply cannot be expected to be this good again in ’09.
- GaryNow the Cubs know what Orlando Cabrera was thinking when the White Sox shortstop called the Toronto press box last month to complain about a scoring decision. Manager Lou Piniella was puzzled by a scoring change during Saturday’s 6-2 win that gave Toronto shortstop David Eckstein an error on Ronny Cedeno’s second-inning shot up the middle that resulted in the first Cubs run. Eckstein had to go far to his left and dive just to get his glove on the ball, which glanced off it. Official scorer Doug Hobbs originally called it a hit but changed the decision after Reed Johnson’s three-run home run off Roy Halladay. With the error, all four runs off Halladay became unearned, helping keep his earned-run average at 3.09.
MW: He actually changed the decision between innings, at his first opportunity to look at a replay.
- JWMike,
Happy Father’s Day, I hope you enjoyed your day (even though the Jays lost).
A couple questions for you
1) I was not impressed with Jon Gibbons’ move to take out Litsch in the 6th…It seems to me like he sometimes gets caught up in the lefty lefty/righty righty match-up game. Your thoughts?
2) I was at the game on Sunday 7 rows back from the field behind first base and Scutaro sure looked safe to me in the 9th inning…I didnt have the luxury of seeing a replay was he safe?
3) I was forced(by a co-worker) to listen to the Bulls**t Pen with Mike Hogan and Mike Toth today and they revisited the disagreement you guys had last week. I don’t know if you were listening or not but I found Toth and Hogan pretty immature and unprofessional in the way they handled the conversation. Hopefully someone who holds some clout was listening as well and realizes these antics have no place on quality radio.
Keep up the good work and thanks for the input
MW: I’m not complaining at all about the way Gibbons runs this pitching staff. I thought Litsch did an OK job, not terrific, but the move to Carlson worked and I’ll take my chances with Camp and righties’ .114 average against him. Scutaro was safe – looked that way to me with the naked eye, and the replay confirmed it. I didn’t hear Hoagie and Toth, but I’m sure we’ll talk about it Tuesday morning at 10:40.
- PatHi Mike,
So the Jays are now 4-8 in June, and have only won a single game against their opponents in each the last 4 series. More and more, I’m starting to think that J.P. is going to make a move for a 30 HR, 100+ RBI player at the trade deadline. I know Adam Dunn, Jason Bay, and Matt Holiday are some names that have been thrown out there – do you think there are any dark horse candidates that the Jays might pick up?
MW: It’s too early to tell. Who knows who will have fully fallen out of the race by then? And I think they’re 4-9 in June now.
- Ian HunterMike, I like you I really do but with your spin regarding AJ comments it sounds more and more like you are working PR for the Jays.
Yes, he was just being honest, etc, etc but the tail end of a 3-6 homestand wasn’t the right time to make these comments. He had to have known his comments would raise the ire of many people and if he didn’t he’s an idiot.
Above all, this makes the Jays organization look bad and if we believe J.P we have a hard enough time attracting free agents without AJ backhandingly insulting Toronto.
MW: The Jays got the two biggest free agents on the market three years ago, and picked up a guy a year removed from a World Series MVP this off-season, as well as getting Scott Rolen to waiver his no-trade to come here. I don’t think that what Burnett said makes the Jays’ organization look bad at all. When I ask a guy a question, I want an honest answer.
- Chris JonesIf Burnett wants to take his .500 baseball to the Cubs then more power to him. But he’ll only be jumping from the frying pan into the fire. Half the people already here in Toronto can’t stand him and he wants to go to a place where they eat baseball, breakfast, lunch and dinner? Wants to play under a bigger microscope? I’d say he’ll be toast over there before he ever even sits down to breakfast.
- Vito From HamiltonThere was so a 5 year plan. It was: Let’s keep duping people into buying tickets for 5 years while we pretend to be working towards contending at the end of that period. My response was, ok wake me up when you decide to try to compete again. So I started watching again 2 years ago… still hoping to see a contender soon!
MW: It may happen, you never know.
- JohnAJ Burnett’s comments shows how little class he has…. not to mention the fact that he is indeed an attention *****
- AKGibby’s gotta go. I know you’ll say it’s not his fault, and I agree with you, but something has to happen to shake this thing up.
It’s unfortunate they can’t fire an underproducing Wells, Burnett, Rios, on and on and on, because that’s whose fault this really is.
What’s the mood around the team right now?
MW: They’re p****d
- RickHey Mike
I’m glad to see the Cubs leave town, now maybe all the Reed Johnson talk will slow down. The Jays record would be no different with Johnson in leftfield, so please people, let it go. Inserting Barajas as the starting catcher is not the answer either.
The Jays need to do one of two things. Either trade for an impact bat NOW, because if they wait to acquire one later it will be too late. If they can’t boost the offense with an impact bat, then deal AJ before he gets hurt again and we get nothing for him. And as for AJ’s comments, i think he should keep his negativity to himself. Toronto wasn’t exactly the baseball capital of the world when he signed the contract and he knew this, so if he wanted to play in an environment like New York or Chicago, then thats where he should have signed in the first place.
MW: He had the opportunity to sign in St. Louis, where they eat, sleep and breathe baseball. They’re not able to trade for an impact bat NOW, and dealing A.J. won’t help the team be more competitive.
- rickUh-oh Mike. Looks like the Yankees are starting to make their move. We see this every year – once they get going, they’re unstoppable (well, at least until the first round of the playoffs that is).
If the Red Sox go just .500 the rest of the way they finish with 89 wins, which should get them into the playoffs and now if the Yankees go on an extended run, then it could be lights out for our Toronto Blue Jays.
MW: The Yanks are definitely heating up, but they just lost their ace for maybe two months.
- JohnThis flap re AJ is indicative of the brain trust involved. He didn’t have the common sense to toe the company line.If I were interviewed concerning what I would do if I won the lottery, I would not go on record saying how I would enjoy shopping for a younger, prettier wife, since that would have a definite effect on my home-life or what would be left of it. Like Jeff Foxworthy says ” You might be a redneck if….”
MW: If your plan is to go shopping for a younger, prettier wife if you win the lottery, you should really let your current old, not-so-pretty wife know. Because she should realize that you’re a pretty awful human being.
- JackEven with Chien Ming Wang out for almost 2 months the Yankees will do better than the .500 minus Jays. How do I know? I don’t, but I’m willing to make bet on it. They don’t take advantage of anything history tells us.
MW: Who are you willing to bet with?
- brunoMike,
THE POINT IS – this is where AJ’s mind is at, not good. Trade him, TRY to create a bidding war with real contenders. This team needs retooling/rebulding anyway with a different general manager. This one HAS TO GO and you know it. It’s a wash great pitching + no hitting equals .500. its getting time to move on.
MW: Please stop telling me what I know. You know I think you’re wrong, why not go with that?
- brunoAJ’s comments overblown?
You’re right. They don’t matter because the clock is now ticking until he flies the coop. A foregone conclusion. (Good riddence!)
And the Jays’ season is quickly slipping away (8.5 out now), as JP dithers and other GMs watch like vultures waiting to see what Jays talent they can pick up cheaply.
It’s all so sad because the 2008 season started so promisngly. Now it looks as if it’s all about to come apart.
Mike, do you still believe this team can turn it around?
MW: THEY’RE ONLY SIX GAMES OUT!!!!!!!!!!!!!! With 91 games to play! The season started so promisingly? When they were 1-2 or 3-3?
- Ken from KingstonFear not good Jays fans, help is on the horizon.
Namely me. I shall be making my annual trip to The Great White North to visit family next month. I am very pleased to announce i was a perfect 3 and 0 on my visits to ‘The Center of the Rogersverse’ last year (which included a 15-4 exercise in Yank spanking, Wang lasted just 2 and a third)
The Angels and Orioles were also dispatched by my Pinch Fanness. (is that a word teachers son?)
However, Alarmingly, i am a mere 1 game under 500 for my career, which under current circumstances rings a bell, so maybe its best not to get our hopes up too high.
MW: History says you won’t be able to help the Jays.
- ukJayHi,
I’m wondering how you see the Catching situation shaping up for next year? I don’t think in his exposure to big league pitching so far, Curtis Thigpen has proved himself yet.
I’ve not seen enough of Diaz to form an opinion.
Is it possible Zaun (and misbehaving Dog) and or The Captain, could or should return?
MW: One of them will, likely to help tutor Diaz.
- ukJayPlease do weigh in about the crapstorm
MW: Just read the comments.
- JordieI think we should accomodate Burnett’s wishes and dump him. How about to the Yanks for Robinson Cano? Then move Hill to ss and we solve our middle infield problem.
MW: Robinson Cano is hitting .225.
- GerryI don’t believe we would be dealing with the Cubs anyway, unless J.P. waves the white flag on the season, They are certainly not going to part with anything we need.
Unless they offer,……No i’m not going to say it!
MW: A.J. for Reed!!!! That’s what the Jays need to make them a contender.
- ukJayHappy Fathers Day Mike, what about an even swap with the Mets. Trade John Gibbons for Willie Randolph? Gibbons is gone soon and he was in the Mets organization. Reyes for AJ while we are talking Mets and Jays
I know, far fetched and crazy
Tom
MW: Both, yes.
- tom stewartMike I appreciate the response to my e-mail, however you still didn’t explain why if the Jays were happy with Stewart why bring in Mench and Wilkerson?? As for Stewart’s avg. (that you seem to like so much) he’s hiting .240 this year, had a decent year in OAK last year and in MIN the year before that yeah his avg. was .293 but he only played in 44 games!!! he has no arm and is downright lazy in the field, something you can never say about Johnson. Anyway I’m not trying to be bitter I love my Jays, but it’s frustrating to watch this team go out there and stink the joint up some nights. I also agree the Burnett thing is going to be overblow as well. Who cares???? He’s not going to be here next year anyway. Thanks.
MW: I don’t think Stewart is lazy at all. Why bring in Mench and Wilkerson? Because for the first six weeks of the season, they didn’t hit anything, so any port in a storm. For the 873rd time, there was no way to have reasonably expected Stewart to fall off as badly as he has this year.
- Blair MartinMike,
If Seattle can do it we should do it. Fire the GM.
MW: Seattle is 90 games under .500. The Jays are one.
- brunoMike,
Seattle fires GM 4 years in . If its time in Seattle its time in Toronto.
MW: If you say it twice, does it make you right?
- brunoHey Mike, a couple of days ago we more or less agreed that Barajas and Diaz would be the catching tandem with Zaun possibly being back instead of Barajas.
Now at SS, do you think the Jays will have interest in bring back Eckstein? He’s basically been what we all thought he would be: a decent OBP guy with mediocre defense. Seems like he and Mac are an okay duo at that spot.
Or perhaps do you see us going after someone in FA? Furcal is probably too expensive…maybe Cabrera? Seems like he’s kind of overrated if you ask me. Thanks for the feedback, Mike.
MW: I agree about Cabrera, but I do like Furcal. Chances are that he’ll sign for way more than he’s worth. The Jays would probably be interested in bringing Eckstein back for, say, a two-year deal at the right price.
- Matt SFor those interested, here a nice little short bio of our future second baseman.
beware A. Hill the kiwi is coming for you
http://www.diamondblacks.org.nz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=8:admin&catid=3:dbplayers&Itemid=3
MW: He’s not coming that fast.
- sammyYou may be happy to know (as was I) that Mike Toth got a little notice on FJM.
Always nice to see some of the ill-informed local boys get some play there.
- JustinHi Mike…something I have always wondered–why are there sometimes guests in Windows restaurant during the game (on the 200 level at least) and sometimes there aren’t? I think it people might only be allowed to eat there when the roof is open? You would think it would be packed every game…
MW: It used to be packed every game, now, not so much. What would the roof being open have to do with anything?
- ZackMike,
You sound agenda driven making all these excuses for AJ. What is he paying you? AJ, tells the media the truth. Isn’t it so refreshing a pro athelete being up front for once Mike? Your ridiculous. Don’t count all of us fans as AJ bashers either Mike. Myself and many others agree that alot of the AJ bashing is not deserving.
Let me tell you the point Mike, this is where his mind is at. All he did is make the Chicago Cubs know he’s very interested in going there!
Smart Guy when does baseball come in. Who you fooling.
MW: I can always count on you, Bruno.
- brunoIf the looming road trip starting 6/17 is not successful, do you sense a major shake-up to this team (ie. fire a manager and/or a major trade)? I do think that if the team can’t figure it out over the next 9-12 then it’s time to send a message loud and clear. Whitt could handle the managerial duties until a replacement could be found. A big player swap might be a good change too, but don’t know what that may entail. Lastly, I admire Doc greatly, his effort, his attitude, his composure, his professionalism are all among the very best, but do you think he will eventually reach a breaking point, perhaps as early as the end of this year, where he quietly asks for a trade to get away from a dead-end situation with a .500 club?
MW: Oy, are we going to go back to Ernie Whitt for manager? Why him? Why not Butterfield or Pevey, both of whom have actually managed in professional baseball before? I don’t think firing John Gibbons is warranted, but if this trip is a disaster, it may happen.
- bob from guelphHey Mike,
With all the trade rumours and possible scenarios surrounding A.J. Burnett, who could or would the Jays possibly get in return if a deal did happen? Is there any chance that they could possibly get a Jason Bay or Adam Dunn by throwing Burnett in with a few other prospects?
Thanks
P.S. I’ve been meaning to ask this for quite some time, much before this whole media blowup.
MW: There is no chance that they get Dunn or Bay for Burnett. Neither the Reds nor Pittsburgh would be interested in a pitcher who is going to leave after this season. They could get one of those guys for prospects and then turn around and trade Burnett to replace those prospects, if they’re so inclined, but I don’t think they will.
- James RebleMike,
Hope you had a good father’s day. Don’t know if you’ve seen this, but I introduce to you Pat Venditte, the Yankee’s ambidextrous pitching prospect.
http://6-4-2.blogspot.com/2008/06/pat-venditte-ambidextrous-pitcher.html
MW: Greg Harris v.2.0
- KevinHi Mike,
Is John Gibbons a good Manager? Please give rationale for your answer.
Also with the Jays struggling so badly you say it is not Gibbons fault and is not responsible for this (strange, considering he MANAGES the baseball club) so if the Jays go on a 10 game winning streak can we say it is not because of Gibbons? He gets no credit? Does it work both ways? If you answer yes to this question I would be excited because JP may hire me next!! Or he may save $$ by putting a cardboard Manager in the dugout! An MLB first!
I love how you responded to another blogger that Bob Brenley scares the heck out of you but you have all the world of comfort with John Gibbons. I know you say these things because of the Rogers paycheques you receive but come on..getting kinda funny.
MW: I was all set to answer until your last sentence.
- MatthewI have a question for you. Records aside, if you were looking at the rosters of all the AL teams which four would you say were going to perform the best at full health. My top four would be BOS, NYY, LAA, and CWS. In other words, who do you think are the best four teams in the AL not including current records. I believe the Jays would have to be in the bottom half after teams like TB, CLE, and DET. They lack power hitters and it it is very obvious in their offensive performance. Therefore, can we really be disappointed in their performance. The other teams are simply better than them.
MW: Are we looking at performance but not records?
- aviIf right now, you could trade Tim Lincecum for Alex Rios, like the trade proposed earlier in the year, would you?
Also, if Burnett was traded to the Cubs, who could you see as a return package for him?
MW: Would I trade Lincecum for Rios? No, but I wouldn’t have in December, either. Would I trade Rios for Lincecum? Yes. I’m not incredibly familiar with the Cubs’ farm system, but I’m thinking they could probably start with Rich Hill and Matt Murton.
- LarryCan we please start shining some blame on Vernon Wells. It matters when your supposed best player is inept at delivering come crunch time. He’d likely play well for a stacked team (Yankees, Cubs, Mets, Philly) but heaven knows he’s not doing the job as the go to guy for the Jays. What’s Gibby supposed to do when his alleged best hitter is tied for 102nd in HRs going into Monday’s games. Like it or not he’s the de facto leader on the team and ain’t getting the job done. Nobody likes to ‘sell low’ but the longer he keeps not getting the job done, the more it may come to light that the sooner he’s traded the more of a ‘sell high’ deal the Jays get.
MW: The guy missed a month and he’s leading the team in RBIs and is one off the club home run lead.
- Isaac C.Alright Mike. Thanks for your answer. $50.00 goes to this worthy charity in your name because…well, just because you’re Mike Wilner and I love Mike Wilner…and really when it comes down to it, who the hell doesn’t? OK I said hell but you said damn so it’s a wash.
MW: Which worthy charity? And thank you!
- Vito From HamiltonDuring the Sunday fiasco there was a very interesting shot taken during one of Rios’s at bats. An outfield camera zoomed in on his face, but they didn’t cut away during the pitch and swing (unintentionally, I’d think.) It was striking – I mean, the sort of thing where you say aloud, “Wow, look at that!” – how horribly he was pulling his head off the ball. His head was up and looking forward while his bat was still entering the hitting zone. It would be hard to make solid contact on a Worth Red Dot in a co-ed slo-pitch game with that kind of hike in your swing, much less a 90-MPH fastball.
Rios’s groundball percentage is way, way up this year, which is a symptom consistent with pulling the front shoulder / head around too fast. I’d figured it might be that, but that shot really illustrated it.
I’m not sure WHY he’s doing it – pulling away can be the result of bad footwork or stance – but it’s really brazenly, brutally obvious. Why he can’t fix it I don’t understand, but he’s not going to consistently hit for power until he does.
MW: That’s the thing – why can’t he fix it? He’s phenomenal in batting practice, but once the bell rings he just goes back to whatever it is that he’s doing wrong.
- Rick JonesHi Mike, Rios definitely hasn’t been hitting. Why not put Scutaro at the top of the order? He was swinging a hot stick for a little while there. Aparently JaysTalk is available as a podcast? On the main fan590 site, about the only thing that I can find available as a podcast is Primetime sports. When you post the JaysTalk up on your blog, just want to let you know that people that are blind/visually impaired have no way of getting at it with their screen readers, which are speech output programs, and people using them like me, rely on the keyboard, and if that is a graphic for people to click on that you’re putting up which points to the latest JaysTalk every time, my screen reader is just seeing that as text, not even a link. If you don’t want to respond to this on the blog, if you could take time out to email me regarding this, that would be great. Sorry for the long post, but just had to post about this. Not sure how many blind/visually impaired people are regular readers of your blog, but if there are a few, they’d probably like to get at the JaysTalk to listen later.
MW: I appreciate this, and I apologize for that, but it’s not within my power to get them to podcast The JaysTalk. I’m trying, though.
- DanIf AJ wants to insult the fans that stand and cheer Reed Johnson for hitting a 3 run home run off of the Jays best pitcher when the team really needs a win, then i’m all for it.
MW: A.J.’s not sure there are any fans.
- BrettHey Mike
I am doing ok. I just thought I’d tell you how I was doing cuz your tired of telling people your doing alright. I can sympathize. I have a bit of an off topic question. What does it mean when a ballplayer is “designated for assignment”? Obveously its not the same as being a free agent. Is that the traiding block? Can a player still play on the field for a team that has just designated him for assignment? BTW I just got tickets to see the Jays at Safeco on Canada day. GO JAYS!!!
MW: Have a good time in Seattle! When a player is designated for assignment, the team is basically making a move to buy time to deal with him while also making a spot on the 40-man roster. Once a player is D.F.A.’d, he’s removed from the 40-man and the club then has 10 days to do one of three things: trade, waive or release the player. If the player gets through waivers he can be sent to the minors, and eventually his contract can be selected again by the big club, so you can be designated for assignment and still play for that team, just not right away. Ask Josh Towers.
- Matt from BCBoth. You’re welcome.
- Vito From HamiltonI wonder if Rios is pulling off the ball so much cause he’s afraid of the ball. dont laugh..many major leaguers have gone through such a phase where they are scared of the ball and dont want to admit it. i dont recall him getting plunked particularly severely though.
you wouldnt trade burnett for cano? you might be the only one.. who cares if he’s hitting like crap right now…he always hits like crap at the beginning of the year
also..no way you get rich hill and murton for AJ. for AJ you might get a second level prospect. hes got minimal value with that expiring contract.
what about purcey and lind for bedard??? then when aj goes we have bedard…his value will never be lower than right now and bavasi’s firing means high price veterans not named ichiro will likely be available.
MW: Bedard will be available, and that’s a good package to offer for him, but what’s the difference between him and A.J.? Both are injury-prone, both have great stuff but have never had a great year. Bedard is WAY more of a jerk than A.J. (but people will love him because he’s Canadian) and his contract expires after next season. I never said no to Cano. So many people are saying track record doesn’t matter, what they did last year doesn’t matter, so I thought I’d point out that Cano wasn’t doing anything this year. Of course I’d take him for A.J. if the offer was made. If the Jays can only get a second-level prospect for Burnett, they won’t trade him.
- sammyHey Mike, did u read todays article by Steve Buffery in the Sun? Man that guy is way off base. Your thoughts? He makes it sounds like Vernon doesnt have any heart and that we were “dumb” to cheer Johnson in the ninth on Friday. If I was at that game, I would have gave Reed a standing O too. I would have been disapointed if the fans didnt cheer for his return.
MW: I think that Buffery (who I really like a lot) is wrong about the Vernon thing. I think a lot of overt shows of passion and frustration are just that, shows, put on so that the fans can see how upset a guy is. Wells doesn’t do that, but he certainly looked angry (for him) going down the first-base line after he popped up with the bases loaded. Beezer also ignored the fact that Wells missed a month when he said that Vernon “should” be leading the team in RBIs. And even though I don’t think Wells is one of the leaders of the team (I’m thinking more Halladay, Ryan, Stairs, Rolen), Vernon was the one who went over to Burnett to talk about his comments in the Sun-Times. Buffery didn’t say fans were dumb to cheer Reed in the 9th, but that cheering him “like he was the second coming of Ted Williams” in a one-run game in the 9th inning was dumb.
- daveWhere on earth has the ‘MEAN GENE’ guy been lately? Michael did you scare him off?
MW: He transformed back into a normal human.
- ukJayMike,
Do you think the Mets release of Willie Randolph and Mariners releasing of Bill Bavasi will have any domino effect with some other struggling teams (read Jays) to do the same with their own personnel? Listening to Buck Martinez this AM on XM Radio and he thinks there is a lot of “copy cat moves” in baseball, this being an example. Although I’m pretty sure of your thoughts on this, I’d like to read them anyway for some entertainment.
Thanks.
MW: I don’t think it’ll have any effect on what the Jays do. Bavasi has been walking the tightrope for a while, since his big moves to bring in Richie Sexson and Adrian Beltre handcuffed the M’s financially and haven’t worked out at all. Bedard’s flop to this point combined with the successes of Adam Jones and George Sherrill in Seattle have something to do with things, too. Willie had been clinging to his job ever since last September.
- RyanIf there is a reason to complain about Aj’s comments when asked about playing for the Cubs – the complaint should be directed towards the reporter who asked such a dumb question! Sure AJ might have been wiser not to answer that question – but most likely would have felt the heat from Toronto fans/media just the same for a “no comment” response.
I am sure there are plenty of players around who would love to play elswhere and in places rich in baseball history. So give it a rest and stop looking for something to whine about.
The biggest problem I see here is the Jays fans and media for the most part have “Leafitis”. Jays fans bashing the Jays and players is all or at least in a very big way due to the Leafs. Call it “misdirected frustration”! Get a grip – please – there is aboslutely no comparison when it comes to MLB Vs NHL and playoff opportunity – none at all.
I said I wasn’t going to bring up the Toth thing again – but have to! When will this guy stop going out there “on the air” trying to find support and justification for what he did a week or so ago on PTS! Just goes to show how wrong he knows he was.
I would bet you couldn’t see Toths’ lips moving when Hogan was speaking – puppet! Sorry Mike just had to throw that in here!
Finally – why do a lot of you just keep on begging for Mike here to admit this or that, to prove this or that or to back off on what he said or didn’t say! Don’t you get it – he believes in what he says and for the most part can back it up – just as AJ believes in what he said!
Disagree for sure – as that is what makes things so interesting on talk shows and blogs etc. However don’t go throwing out your corn flakes just because someone won’t admit to this or that. I don’t get it.
The Jays have brought you a lot more excitement, big names and championships for that matter over the last 20 years or so than that “other team” has so sit back and enjoy it.
We don’t have to make the playoffs every year to get excited about the team and ejoy the sport. Certainly would be nice – but a cake is still a cake with or without the icing!
Thanks
- BobWhy is it poor old Shaun Marcum can’t catch a break? Tomorrow he gets to face the 7-1, 2.72 era of Ben Sheets. Looks like he’s going to have to be nigh on perfect again.
Strictly only between you and all of us, did you really want the tv job?
P.S. i was only kidding with post 74
- ukJayI knew you did not want to answer my Gibbons question anyway so I was ok with no response..the response is obvious to any fan that knows about baseball and has watched the game closely for several decades…like moi!
MW: Huh?
- MatthewMind you all kidding aside, maybe J.P. set a precedent, didn’t he once trade John McDonald for Hmmmm, Johnny Mac?
MW: He sure did, kind of.
- ukJayI agree with the comment above about Friedman. But I suppose his first love is hockey and he couldn’t be at a worse network for baseball. Oh well.
But Jesse Barfield was also great and I’ve always enjoyed him when he’s visited the radio booth. Is he working somewhere as a broadcaster?
I know that commenting on your colleagues and counterparts is not something you like to do. Is there a blog where that sort of thing does happen?
MW: Toronto-specific? The drunks are always happy to comment on broadcasters.
- bgWhy does everyone always pick on Heckstein?
- Vito From HamiltonI think that what frustrates the fans about the Jays is that even if we wanted to upgrade this teams hitting, we don’t have any movable parts outside of our pitching, and our prospects are simply too few and too far away to have any impact with another selling organization.
MW: That’s not true at all.
- BobMike,
Heart is the intangible that we watch sports for. Some players have it and some don’t. If heart or stones or being clutch doesn’t have anything to do with it then there’s no drama. It’s what makes Big Papi so fun to watch or makes a Yankees fan chose Jeter over A Rod. It’s what made Doug Gilmour a Hall of Famer or it’s what makes Mats Sundin the leader in overtime career goals. Not that Reed Johnson is a Hall of Famer or anything but it was certainly compelling to watch him play this weekend and very clutch too hit that homerun. I guess I can agree to disagree but where’s the drama if there wasn’t a little heart along with skill in Reed’s Homerun swing?
MW: Why is there no heart when Vernon Wells hits a home run?
- Michael KrimmerMike,
Who’s the better mascot of the three?
Ace
BJ Birdie
Youppi
MW: I think it’d probably have to be Youppi!, wouldn’t it?
- MarkI’ve said It before, Im all for Bob Brenly coming in here, with Jerrry Colangelo as GM and President. Jerry has been very active in the MLB, NHL,and NBA, and knows what it takes to build a winner. He built succcessfull basketball teams in phoenix and later built a championship Arizona Diamondback team, with Bob Brenly as the coach. Diamondbacks were only about four years old when they won their first championship, beating the mighty Yankees. Jerry is known for aquiring high calibre talent that gets the job done, He aquired the tadem of Schilling and Randy Johnson while in their dominant stage. Schilling and Johnson Dominated the Yankees.
MW: They sure did, and boy, Brenly sure was a great coach, wasn’t he?
- NeilMike:
I think the hard time the fans and media of Toronto are giving David Eckstein is unbelievable. Johnny Mac is the fav, but Eckstein is hitting over 150 points higher than him and has a long track record of being able to hit MLB pitching as an everyday player. I don’t think his defense has been THAT BAD (although a play or two sticks out as really bad). I would be more inclinded to say that Scutaro is our #2 shortstop because at least his bat is not an automatic out. Even you were unfair to Eck on Saturday. When the Jays lost 6-2, you singled him out over the error that lead to the 3-run homer. But the real story was that the offense failed to score again.
But lashing out on Eck is a head scratcher. In St. Louis and LA, he is considered a hero. Look at the ovation he got there. He is a person who always takes time to chat and sign autographs before most games with a huge smile doing it. That’s why I get annoyed when I hear some yahoos boo him in the stands when he steps up to the plate. It must be something very new to him.
This team needs a fighting chance with every at bat, and I want a guy who hits around .286/.351/.362 over a guy who just hits .238/.278/.313. I love Johnny Mac, but there is no doubt who the better player is.
MW: There’s no doubt who the better hitter is. There’s lots of doubt as to who the better player is. I don’t think I was unfair to Eckstein at all. He made the error that kept the inning alive on Saturday, but I also pointed out the fact that it was Roy Halladay who gave up the subsequent home run to Reed Johnson, not Eckstein. How is that being unfair to Eckstein.
- Jim BMike
You probably already knew this, but the Jays are the only team in the AL over the past 5 years (not including 2008) with over 400 wins that has not made the playoffs. Detroit, with fewer than 400 wins, has made the playoffs once. Why? Because Boston & NY, over the past 5 years, have 9 playoff appearances over that period – one short of the maximum possible. In other words, the Jays, if they were in any other division, would likely have made the playoffs at least once but for Boston & NY. Agreed?
MW: Over the past 5 years? Probably two or three times.
- DanWhen did I say that?
MW: When did who say what? 100+ comments a day, no sleep, you can’t expect me to remember each one.
- Michael KrimmerMike, how’s the back?
Do you still need a massage?
MW: Thanks, guy-pretending-to-be-Don.
- Don LandryHey Mike you can be as sarcastic as you want, however the team of Jerry Colangelo and Brenly accomplished alot more in one year than JP and Godfrey did in 6+. That is a fact. You be the Judge a world series vs not even a sniff at the postseason, I feel that you are quite content with consolation even if it was a twenty year drought.
MW: There’s no question that what the Diamondbacks did in 2001 is greater than anything the Blue Jays have done under Godfrey and Ricciardi.
=
- NeilHey Mike,
What is it with the disrespect that you keep receiving – first Mike Toth and now Steve Buffery (re: his article in the Sun this morning, and I quote “Wilner’s right. (Actually, if you listen to his show, he’s never wrong.)”
I say don’t change a thing!
MW: I don’t mind that from Buffery, he’s a funny guy.
- WayneI agree with Rich Griffen a realist who say’s the talent in the farm system in terms of pitching is non-existant which is why they are not confident in moving any of their starting pitching.
By the way
Mike in your response to post 107 you said it’s not true at all that the prospects that jays have in the farm are few and fare away. You youself have said the same thing as people have often suggested moving a peice of the pitching. You often mention that many of the talent in the farm is years off.
MW: What I disagreed with was the notion that the Jays didn’t have the talent on the farm to bring a major player over in trade. They certainly do, regardless of how far away it is.
- Neil“For the 873rd time, there was no way to have reasonably expected Stewart to fall off as badly as he has this year.”
Considering Stewart was a spring invitee and no other team made him an offer I think some of the smarter GMs in the league had an inkling that Stewart was on the down side of his career.
MW: I don’t know about that. There’s not much call for a corner outfielder who doesn’t hit for power, unless he’s better than the corner outfielder who doesn’t hit for power that you already have. Stewart’s agent had also turned down some offers earlier in the winter, and his agent is now looking for work.
- Chris JonesMike,
I know he will probably be out of the Jays price range, but do you think they take a run at CC Sabathia?
Any word on when Hill will return?
Now is the time to pounce with the Yanks losing their best pitcher until September. I wouldn’t trade Burnett within the division right now, but if the Yanks had a big bat they were willing to give up along with a top flight prospect, it may just be too much to pass up.
MW: I’d trade Burnett for a big bat plus a top-flight prospect, no problem. I doubt Hill will be back for a while, and I don’t think the Jays will be in on Sabathia.
- Aaron KerLooking for your gut feeling on two things:
How long before Gibbons is let go?
The Jays record during the next 12 games vs. Interleague foe.
MW: The first depends on the second. And the Jays could go 10-2 or 4-8, that’s the story of their season.
- CamIf Burnett should get injurned later in the season and his immediate future is unknown, does that mean Burnett will likely not opt out of his contract and be stuck in TO for 2 more years?
MW: Probably.
- Shmuel YitzchokWhat do you think of the Jays replacing Gibbons with Willie Randolph to get that change of scenery/shake it up/were desperate we need to something influence on the team?
MW: Why Willie?
- Shmuel Yitzchokhey mike
when chicago was in town i heard rumers of aj saying he would welcome a tarde to them what do you think we could get for him. ty enjoy your day
MW: Asked and answered.
- jeremyHey Mike,
I totally agree with you that fans criticize players for consistently using cliches in their answers to the press.
However, these players make a living by performing a function that has absolutely no benefit to society. In addition, they are compensated very well in exchange for performing this function. The reason that they get paid so well is because there are so many people who enjoy watching them perform this function. Therefore, it is my opinion that these players should be required to maintain the illusion that they would rather die than play for another team in another city. This illusion should be maintained for the benefit of the fans, who enjoy watching these players.
I would certainly like to hear more candid answers from players, as long as those answers do not disrespect the fans. For example, I would have loved it if, after the game on June 6th, Marcum had said “Yeah, Benitez gave up two homeruns and totally screwed me out of a win. I really hate him right now.” Also, it would have been great if anyone on the Jays would have said on May 30th, 2007, “Alex Rodriguez’s behaviour tonight was completely unsportsmanlike. During our next series against the Yankees, we fully intend hit him in the head with a pitched ball, and then spike him in the face during the ensuing melee. These acts will serve as appropriate retribution for what he did tonight.”
Both of those would have been FANTASTIC to read!
MW: They would have, but the Marcum quote would have caused more problems within the Jays’ clubhouse than the Burnett quote did. I don’t agree with you in that the players should have to maintain the illusion. I want the truth, and we get it so rarely.
- JasonHey Mike,
How about a blog where we don’t have to read the idiotic questions? I really don’t know how you put up with it. Come on people, ask some real questions about basebal – it only makes sense since most of you proclaim yourselves experts.
Oh, and since when did Reed Johnson become the second-coming of Stan Musial or Ted Williams. People couldn’t wait to run him out of town last year and all of a sudden he’d be the cure to all that ails the Jays. GEEZ!
Just had to get that off my chest.
MW: I don’t think that many people were trying to run Reed out of town last year. Those who love him have always loved him.
- CameronMike,
Your right, they Jays are unlikely to break out of their slump over night because they are unlikely to prove themselves to be in the top of the league in scoring. And please stop toting “career averages”. We have two effects that could be hurting the Jays hitters
1) the end of the steriod era. We know at least 1 current Jay was a user and I think it is fair to say more people were using than names that have come out.
2)Averages don’t take into consideration the direction of a persons career. I think it is fair to say Rolen, Stairs, Zaun, Eck, Wilkerson, and I would throw Overbay in too, are on the downside of their careers. You wouldn’t expect Frank Thomas to reach his career average, would you?
The problem is really the guys that are suppose to be on their upside, Rios and Hill. Hill has been streaky and Rios hasn’t proven that is anymore more than a softing hitting OF. Looking at major leaguers between 26 and 28 with around 600 Games, Rios (2276ABs, 55hrs, 289RBIs) best compares with Jhonny Peralta (2157ABs, 73hrs, 267RBIs), David Dejesus (2141ABs, 38Hrs, 241RBIs) and Bobby Crosby (1871ABs, 51Hrs, 207RBIs. Not even close to the Pujols, Holliday, Attkins, and Morneau’s.
As for Wells, lets try not to use “He missed a month and still lets the team in RBIs”, because he is currently 120th in MLB in RBIs. Behind Jason Michaels while having 50 more ABs. I mention that because you’ll use the limit Games arguement. Wells (170ABs) is also behind Chris Snyder (168ABs), Reed Johnson(176ABs), Eric Hinske (180ABs), and Ryan Church (180ABs), all guys with very similar ABs. Yes Wells is a good player but he is not in the same class as the top 30-40 hitters in the league. I can provide a list of guys I think are better if you want to nit pick. You tell callers to accept the facts, I ask you to do the same. The Jay’s Offense is in the bottom 1/3rd of MLB.
MW: There’s no question that the Jays offense is in the bottom third of MLB, probably worse. And you make a very good point about Rios and Hill (one I’ve made before). I don’t think Overbay is on the downside at all, and Eckstein is probably in his pre-drop plateau, but no, I wouldn’t expect these guys to have career years anymore. But there’s a difference between that – and even between asking a 40 year-old to hit at his career average – than having everyone completely fall off the table with runners on base. No one has been able to explain that to me other than to say “they suck” or “they’re old” or “they were never that good” (even though they were, most as recently as last season), and none of those are good enough reasons.
- JWMike, here are the numbers for the last three years for both Reed and Shannon. Please enlighthen how these numbers show that Shannon’s bat is better than Reed’s. I think I have heard you admit that Reed’s glove is better, so no point in showing fielding stats.
Player AB R H 1B 2B 3B HR RBI BB KO SB CS BA OBP SLG
Johnson 378(AB) 57(R) 106(H) 73(1B) 23(2B) 3(3B) 7(HR) 40(RBI) 24(BB) 73(KO) 6(SB) 3(CS) 0.2804(BA) 0.3484(OBP) 0.4127(SLG)
Stewart 434(AB) 56(R) 123(H) 95(1B) 18(2B) 2(3B) 8(HR) 42(RBI) 32(BB) 51(KO) 7(SB) 3(CS) 0.2834(BA) 0.3362(OBP) 0.3894(SLG)
Source: Sportline.com
SALARIES: Johnson ($1.7 million) vs. Stewart ($1.5 million)
Basically, these are very similar numbers in comparable at bats… Perhaps I’m missing something on the contract structure that the Blue Jays had designed for Reed. PLease clarify. Thanks!
MW: Reed was going to make just over $3.2 million, for starters, and the vast majority of Johnson’s numbers were built up in the first half of 2006. Also, he doesn’t hit right-handed pitching well.
- AxelIt’s great to know I have fans, brother.
- TerryHi Mike.
Regarding Shannon Stewart and David Eckstein: I can understand fans’ skepticism about these acquisitions given that Reed Johnson and Johnny Mac were/are two Blue Jay fan favourites.
I also understand making the move to get a SS to play ahead of Johnny Mac. As good as he is defensively, I don’t know how Mac would hold up if he was the starter and played 140+ games. I seem to recall a stretch last year where Mac was playing/starting quite often and made two or three errors in a relatively short span of time…perhaps he is most effective as a defensive replacement / spot starter as opposed to full-time duty.
The Johnson-out, Stewart-in event is more puzzling. Johnson is younger and can probably do more things well to help the team win going foward than Stewart can. If this move was a money issue, that’s disappointing. JP was willing to pay Frank Thomas millions of dollars to play for Oakland this year, so I don’t think keeping Reed would have broken the Blue Jay bank.
One other point: it’s true that both Stewart and Eckstein have been productive in recent years, but I’m wondering how many other teams were serious bidders for these guys before JP signed them. If there was a lack of interest out there, it could have been a sign that other teams did not think these two could perform at their usual level going forward…?
- JamesHi Mike, I’m 58 and never became a Dad. My Dad loved me but we weren’t close. He was into electronics since he was age 6 ??? And I loved music and sports. I feel I really missed something. My Dad sure did tell us the funniest jokes that I still tell, of that I’am so proud of his wit and humour. Do you ever come into contact with Rance, the Jays former third baseman. I just heard him on the PM show on the FAN and liked what he said. Some people put him down because during the game he TEACHES us “too much”, like Al Kaline and Joe Morgan,(the two best colour men I have ever heard) he just needs to tone it down, he has good advice with every pitch, but that is too much, maby every 4 or 5 pitches. While listening to the interview, I thought that he would make a good manager, because RANCE KNOWS BASEBALL MORE THAN JOE GREEN KNEW- – - i FORGOT WHAT JOE GREEN KNEW? I did a stats comparison years ago that was something similar to that a 250 hitter becomes a 300 hitter on a 2-0 count or a 3-1 count. Rance says the Jays batters then still won’t swing the bat, also a 250 hitter becomes a 200 hitter when he is behind in the count like 0-2. I never met a man that was more into stats then you. A’m I right?
I JUST WANT TO ADD THAT IT IS DIFFICULT TO KNOW FOR SURE WHO THE 30 HR A YEAR MAN IS AND THE 100 RBI’S A YEAR BATTERS ARE NOW THAT BASEBALL HAS GOTTON RID OF STEROIDS ETC. SO J. P. NEEDS MORE TIME TO ASCERTAIN WHO THE TRUE BIG HITTERS ARE FOR A YEAR OR TWO, ALSO MANY PLAYERS RISKED CANCER ETC UNTIL THEY SIGNED THE BIG LONG TERM CONTRACT, NOW THEY CAN GO BACK TO TAKING CARE OF THEIR HEALTH. I’M SURE YOU REMEMBER WHAT HAPPENNED TO LYLE ALZADO OF THE CLEVELAND BROWNS. People will remember this new era of baseball 100 years from now. With really solid pitching we can still sneak into the wild card spot, but have you noticed the Tigers quitely sneaking closer to .500?
MW: You have to figure out how the caps lock works. I always associate Alzado with the Raiders, didn’t know he played for the Browns. And I don’t think Rance is into stats, he’s just talking about pitchers’ counts and hitters’ counts, and he’s exactly right.
- Grant Lary“I still think there’s validity to the idea that the pitching dropoff MIGHT have something to do with Zaun’s absence”
http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=1489
“They have the 4th-best batting average in the league with nobody on base!”
From a guy who never uses BA alone to prove a point. I shouldn’t be surprised though, since you also seem to like to state on it’s own how Stewart has hit .290 and .293 the last two years.
“The season started so promisingly? When they were 1-2 or 3-3?”
They were never 3-3. Nice try though.
Oh, and from a previous entry(not sure which one): “You have to go with the odds.”
Oh, like you do. By not caring about PECOTA. Gotcha.
MW: You’re right, they were 4-2, then 4-3, then 4-4 does that count as the season starting so well? I love when people think they GET me on such minor things. I didn’t read that prospectus article, and you shouldn’t link to things that people need a subscription for (assuming it’s not from the free stuff). It’s quicker to use average, if you want me to keep answering all the comments, you’re going to have to let that go. And as for PECOTA, I don’t think it’s the be-all and end-all, that doesn’t mean I don’t care about it. But lots of people cite it as though it’s the gospel, and it isn’t. At all.
- Dan WWhy do I feel like the Jays’ BA w/RISP is going to actually IMPROVE with the pitchers hitting? LOL
Second, aren’t clips from TBJTW usually in the downloads section? I don’t see any though.
MW: That’s up to the audio editor.
- JJI din’t get a chance to hear the bullpen today.
How did it go?
MW: Fine. Toth apologized for crossing the line.
- PatIs it possible that are expectations for our offence are too high? Perhaps Wells, Rios, and Overbay are simply very average hitters who had 2/2.5 very good seasons in the past!
MW: Perhaps, but what else have we to go on? And even if they were very average hitters, the team would still be OK. It’s how far below average they (and most everyone else) have been with RISP.
- Shmuel Yitzchok“Why Willie?” Who’s available? Perhaps this will be the next best thing for all the people that want Cito back.
MW: Because he’s black?
- Shmuel YitzchokMike,
Got to disagree with you about Terry Ryan, even though he managed to let David Ortiz get away (then again Reed Johnson is of course a better player than Big Papi). ;)
Yes, his career record is under .500 (.491), but under Carl (Ebenezer Scrooge) Pohlad, he never had a payroll higher than #18 and he made the most of it with 4 playoff appearances in 5 years between 2002-2006. Yes, he had some absolutely horrible teams, which helped him land premium talent in the draft, but he was still able to find that talent and made some fine veteran for prospect trades. I think if you gave him the kind of payroll J.P. gets (never higher than #12) that he could do a fine job.
I do not advocate firing J.P. though and I’m not absolutely sure that Ryan could do a MUCH better job. One thing that’s on Ryan’s side is track record and I do think if or when the Jays job becomes available, if Ryan is still available, the Jays should talk to him. I’d be interested to see what he could do with looser purse strings than he had in Minnesota.
I find it laugh-out-loudable that everybody picks apart J.P. for his draft record, when if you compare Gillick, Ash and Ricciardi strictly on draft record to this point in their careers (as I did on May 31st, 2008: post #76), Ricciardi comes out on top, with Gillick second and Ash third. If you add in rule V picks and foreign free agent signings, then I think Gillick vaults over J.P. in terms of amateur talent procurement, but that’s not what everybody harps on J.P. about. It’s always about how much he sucks at drafting, among other things.
I understand he’s made some PR gaffes, and I think that and the fact that for whatever reason the last 2-3 editions of the Jays haven’t equaled their “on paper production” spreads the fans’ negative perceptions of him across everything he has ever done.
Then again, Dan O’Dowd was an idiot until the Rockies played crazy ball for the better part of four weeks last year. I guess it really is a “Just win baby” thing. I wonder if he’s gone back to idiot status this year.
The GM’s job is to assemble what he feels is the best team, and this is a very good team. It just isn’t playing like one. I don’t think anyone could’ve foreseen this kind of team-wide offensive craptacularity and if they could have, I don’t think they would’ve predicted the Jays record would be 35-36 after 71 games.
Speaking of offensive craptacularity, let me be the first one to not throw Vernon Wells under the bus for his pop up with the bases loaded on the first pitch on Sunday. It was refreshing to see somebody go up there ready to swing at the first good pitch he saw. It didn’t work out, but that’s baseball, a game of inches or 1/16 inches (or whatever) on a bat. I reserve the right to complain vehemently when a player goes up there in a hitting situation and lets crushable pitches go by thus ending up in a pitcher’s count or swings at off the mark pitches to end up in a pitcher’s count, but I applaud Vernon’s approach (not the results) in that at bat. If more hitters on this team approached at bats like that, the clutch hitting issues would get better and this team might finally get it going again. Sorry for the novella Mike, just had to vent,
Tom Jackson
MW: You didn’t disagree with me on Ryan. All I said was that his career record was under .500.
- TomHi Mike, if the Jays continue to play .500 ball I think most people would expect JP to be fired and probably more people would lose their jobs as a result. My question is, would you prefer to do it in season so that a replacement might be found and that person would be able to evaluate the players for a month or more in-season, or would you wait until the off-season and take your time finding a new GM? I think I would want to give the new guy as much opportunity to see the team in action as possible.
Trading AJ & Doc for Reed and a bucket of pine tar would also help. Guaranteed world series wins for the next 20 years.
MW: Anything that brings Reed back guarantees a World Series. After all, they won it every year he was here, didn’t they?
- Chris - KitchenerMullinicks and Barfield both sound very good in the booth. I also remember hearing Jesse on the radio and thought that he would be a good hitting coach.
Some people might be throwing those names out as potential managers in the near future. The problem is that Buck Martinez sounds good in the booth, and should have never ventured into the dugout.
Jesse sounded very upset that the Jays weren’t being aggressive enough at the plate against the Cubs. Could it just be a case that the Jays hitters are overthinking once runners get in scoring position, instead of following the words of Pete Rose “I would see the ball and try to hit it hard somewhere.”?
MW: Maybe, but that still doesn’t explain the complete and utter lack of “excuse me” base hit in those situations.
- Aaron KerMike,
Ok, let me re-phrase that. His winning percentage is darn good when you consider the fact that one of the wealthiest men in America gave him sweet diddle-dee-dee to work with in terms of payroll and still he got 4 of his 12 teams to the playoffs, including 4 of the last 5. I’m only advocating interviewing him should the position eventually become available, not yesterday.
I understand the under .500 reference though, given that everybody and his (or was that Gregg’s?) dog loves to gleefully point out that J.P.’s record is under .500 (.492, Ryan’s is .491). It is kind of hilarious that their winning percentages are soooo close together, but I’d have to say Ryan got more bang for his buck than J.P. has (so far) and it would be interesting to see what he could do with this kind of payroll at some point in the future, should he still be available.
I guess what I’m saying is we shouldn’t be so quick to dismiss Ryan’s ability based on the fact that his record is under .500 without looking at the circumstances. I think your counter-point is that we shouldn’t be so quick to dismiss Ricciardi’s ability based on the fact that his record is below .500 without looking at the circumstances, particularly in the first 4 seasons of his reign. This argument is starting to go in circles and I’m getting dizzy, but I think Ryan got slightly more bang for his buck than J.P. has in his. I’m just not sure it’s enough to justify the upheaval that a firing would create at this stage.
MW: Never did I say that Ryan wouldn’t be a good general manager.
- Tom“… would you prefer to do it in season …”
I don’t think it would be fair to fire Gibbons. Managers are overrated as far as I can see. Do you think the Jays would be winning this year if Joe Torre had come? I seriously doubt it.
BUT. If firings are going to happen, I’d rather they do it now than wait until September. I’d also like to see JP fired before he has the chance to do it to Gibbons. It may be a coin flip, but you then at least have the outside chance that some change in chemistry sparks a miraculous change. I put $5 on this:
Gibbons gets fired just after the All Star Break. JP says the team were ‘dialing it in’ (remember that one?). JP gets fired November. (Pat Quinn signed as GM shortly after.)
“… a bucket of pine tar …”
Seriously – I think that’s exactly what the Jays need. It has that ring of ‘real’ baseball I keep hearing about.
- BenMike,
I think it’s a fair assumption that Adam Lind would be, at the very least, providing the big club with what Brad Wilkerson is currently providing, and with, obviously, a much higher ceiling for more.
Having said that, do you think at least a small factor in keeping Lind on the farm is to enchance his perceived value as a POSSIBLE trading chip in the event his name comes up in talks?
In other words, might he look more appealing to another club if he is tearing up AAA, as opposed to being up at the major league level and possibly scuffling?
I’m interested to read your thoughts, especially with Toronto’s offense desperate for, well, offense.
MW: It’s an interesting thought. Frankly, I don’t know if Lind would give the Jays more than Wilkerson has. The odds say he would, though. I don’t know if the team keeping him down in AAA when he appears to be ready would enhance his trading-chipness or do the complete opposite, because teams might wonder why he’s down there, much like most Jays fans are wondering.
- Jayson in North DakotaWith wang going down in NY, I’d imagine they are seeking a top pitcher. Would JP trade Burnett to the Yanks? And what would you look for in return?
MW: If the package is right, I think J.P. would trade Burnett to the Yankees. In return, I don’t know, Ian Kennedy and Jose Tabata would be nice, but that ain’t happening unless Hank goes nuts. You never know.
- jasonI don’t think it’s unreasonable to say that 7-5 is a good start.
No subscription is needed, and I have never linked to one that did. Thanks for making the assumption though. And Glad to see you take the time to learn more about the game and on the FACTS behind the opinions that you hold.
I only brought it up because in response to a question from Tom you said you only use average along with other stats, unless it was a split that had to be calculated, in which case you used average because it was less time consuming. My apologies if I’m wrong on this, but that’s what I remember and it’s awfully tough to find these things after a week has gone by. Tom, can you confirm that’s what he said?
I only do it because you seem to like to nit-pick when other people make small mistakes. Some people differ on what a “minor” detail is, best to keep everything accurate even if it is something small.
PECOTA is certainly not the end all be all, but it’s a hell of a lot better than you or I. For you to make proclamations such as “there was no evidence that player x would perform poorly” without knowing what the most sophisticated and accurate projection system available to the public says is a pretty ignorant and bold claim.
MW: I’m not going to get into an argument with you about PECOTA and how it’s always right because you can call on a 30% projection, a 50% projection, an 85% projection, x% of a breakout, y% of a decline, whatever. You do enough of that, and you can never be wrong. I think that the time-consuming argument is fine, because it’s either that or stop answering comments.
- Dan WHEY MIKE,
MY AGENT JUST TOLD ME I WILL BE TRADED TO ATL WITH OVERBAY FOR TEXIERA AND PROSPECTS IN 2 WKS.
WHAT DO YOU THINK ? CAN YOU ASK JP FOR ME, HE WON’T ANSWER MY CALL.
AJ (AMERICAN JAY)
MW: I doubt very much that will happen.
- AJJ.P. Arencibia finally promoted up to AA. Is he the catcher of the future?
Are we looking at a jerolman / arencibia tandem back there 2 years from now?
That’s quite the fab 4 now in new hampshire what with Cecil, Snider, Campbell and Arencibia
MW: And Jeroloman. I think two years is a little quick, though.
- ChrisHi Mike, I was really appalled at seeing David Eckstein crawling around on Saturday after that ball. When Doc is out there this resistance to playing Johnny Mac is silly. I know they have to be careful with the feelings of Eck, but if he is supposed to be such a team guy, then he would not be in a fuss. I am sure Eck is shocked he is not beloved here, I think that while he is hitting this lack of range and overall defense is a huge concern. I am not saying play Johnny Mac every day, but as a defensive replacement and on days when Doc and other ground ball pitchers play play Mac.
Liz
MW: McDonald has been in as a defensive replacement every game that it’s applied since he got back. I’m sorry you were appalled, would you have preferred he stood up and walked after it?
- LizMike,
I am glad we are making progress, but I don’t know what your basing your “falling off the table” on.
The Jays team ave is .259 and the Jays ave with the bases empty is .260, ave with runners on is .259, runners in scoring position is .233 and finally, the stat you like to point to, runners in scoring position with 2-outs – .197
Overall, I think it is fair to say that a .260 ave with the bases empty is the same as .259 with runners on. Now the Jay ave does fall when those runners are in scoring position, but the Jays are not alone in that. The MLB ave drops from .267 to .262, and so you can’t blame it on the Jays, the NL drops from .263 to .259.
Now the Jays ave drops again with runners in scoring position and 2 outs, but I am sure it would not surprise you to learn that the MLB ave in this situation is .233, meaning that most players have problems in this situation.
Now, it would be easy to say this is the root of the Jays problem but do you know which team has the biggest drop off? The Cubs. (-.074)
As a team they have a .283 ave, but are hitting .209 with runners in scoring position and 2 outs. The Jays are the 2nd worst (-.062). And just to show that this one stat is almost useless, two other first place teams have the 3rd and 5th biggest drop off, The White Soxs (-.059) and Red Soxs (-.053). But maybe poor 2-out hitting with runners in scoring position has something to do with Chicago and Soxs???
So while the Jays are not good in this situation, being bad in this situation doesn’t mean you can’t win, as proven by 3 of the 5 bottom teams being in first place. But those 3 teams all hit well with runners in scoring position and less than 2 out.
It should not be surprising that the Jays can’t hit with runners in scoring position and 2-0uts, since they hit poorly in every situation. And it is this overall poor hitting that is the problem because it provides them with zero margin for error.
MW: They don’t hit poorly overall in every situation. But in your argument, you completely ignored the fact that the Jays drop from .260/.337/.385 with the bases empty to .233/.327/.325 with RISP.
- JWHi, Mike:
No game yesterday (Monday), and you STILL top the 130 mark in posts — congratulations!
MW: Thanks – I didn’t find your joke offensive, but I didn’t want to take the chance that someone might.
- NormThey get progressively worse as the at bats get important. Not a good thing.
MW: THAT’S the thing, which you totally talked around in your original post. It’s not a good thing, at all, but it’s not like all these guys have a history of mental fragility and shriveling up in the “clutch”. Maybe it’s the lack of Reed Johnson.
- JWfor get all this runners in scoring position..hitting with runners on..hitting with risp and two outs. the reason this team has trouble scoring is cause they have NO power. it takes three hits to score for them. of course teams are not ever going to consistently get anywhere near that number. the homerun is a huge leveling factor when it comes to hitting. just hit a couple out and you dont even have to worry about this. the real issue my friend..where has all the power gone from this team? where ?? is it luck? or is it something more obvious that people dont wanna talk about. and dont give me that crap about pitchers should have been effected as well….it doesnt work that way..no matter how “weak” a pitcher has become..if the hitter does not have the manual strength to hit it out..its not going out..infact one could argue it would require more power to hit a slower fastball out than a harder one.
MW: Manual strength? Anyway, pitchers should have been affected, as well, by going off drugs, and their weaker stuff would be easier to hit into (true, though, that running into a 96 mph heater could help, you just don’t run into them as often). The Jays’ collective slugging is abominable, it’s true. Homers would help a ton, but so would not hitting .233 with runners in scoring position.
- sammy jalalzaiHey Mike,
A slew of questions for you:
- Do you think that Reed Johnson has any trade value for the Cubs right now?
- If so what type of return would he bring?
- Could the Jays have held on to him long enough to get any type of return on him?
I read that the Blue Jays were on the hook for $546,000* of his $3.275 million* contract.
- Who pays the remainder of the contract?
- Why is this different than Frank Thomas’ situation?
Personally I will take:
Shannon Stewart ($1.5 million* salary) +
Brad Wilkerson (prorated $390,000*) +
Kevin Mench (prorated $600,000*) over Reed Johnson ($3.275 million* salary), on a team that is continuously injured.
*source – mlb.com
MW: Reed probably has more trade value with the Cubs than he did with the Jays, since he’s being paid almost $2 million less. Had the Jays held onto him, they’d have been holding onto him at that $3.3 million, which dramatically lessens the possible return. No one pays the remainder of the original Johnson contract, it wasn’t guaranteed, which is the difference between that and Thomas’.
- Desmondif the bluejays were to trade aj around now in the seson dont you think camp could be the 5th starter?
MW: No.
- jeremyMike, again you continue to defend AJ Burnett when ever he does or says something stupid. So tell me, your wife asks you if some other women is a good looking lady, you say yes but your married to her right now, but if you were not, you would openly accept a date with that other women. Would she not get angry with you. So how is this different than what AJ said. Stop defending every action he does. I am going to Pittsburgh this weekend and I am going to ask him what an overpriced 500 pitcher gets in the trade market.
MW: That’s COMPLETELY different than what A.J. said. For your scenario to make sense, the Chicago reporter would have had to have asked Burnett if he thought the Cubs were a good team, and A.J. would have had to have answered “I’d love to be traded over there.” That’s not even close to what happened.
- JasonMike.
You know much about Erik Bedard?
Apparently Bavasi thinks he is a jerk and is way too soft of a pitcher. Will never throw more than 100 pitches and cites fatigue all the time
MW: Lots of people think he’s a jerk. Shame Bavasi didn’t try harder to find that stuff out before he gave up the farm for him.
- ChrisKnowing you. you will probably look him up and tell me he has starts of 105 and 103 and 108 pitches.
His average pitches per start though is 95.3
MW: You shouldn’t use words like “never” or “always”. You’ll always be wrong if you do that, and never right.
- ChrisFavourite New Kids on the Block Song???
MW: Seriously?
- Nick I.Just out of mild curiosity, does Gregg Zaun’s dog swing the bat well with runners in scoring position? I hear he walks a lot, which might suggest a high on base percentage. But i also hear he stinks out in left field where he’s been known to drop one or two.
- ukJayDesperate times call for desperate measures.
Mike,
I feel your being a little disingenuous to Reed. Once or twice you have commented on the Jays not winning with him on the team. But its all about the support cast as well, Whoever had won the LF job this year could have reasonably expected to be on a better team than the Jays have been over the past few years.
The Cubs are going to the post season this year with Reed, and i would fully expect them to reach at least as far as the NLCS, if not losing the World Series to the AL team.
Now i will sit quietly and await my being torn to shreds!
MW: There will be no shred-tearing. I like Reed, but people seem to have canonized him. The Jays never won a thing with him.
- ukJayso mike the GM of the Giants gets a free pass on the Zito contract because it was market value at the time?
the gm of the Dodgers gets a free pass on the Pierre contract because it was market value at the time?
I want a GM that gives contracts to players that are worth it, not one that just hands our contracts that are market value.
I’m not saying J.P. should be fired or that I don’t like him, I just find you defending the Wells contract by saying “it was market value at the time” to be really irratating.
and Mike don’t be offeneded with Dan W. taking PECOTA word over yours. Intelligent people would believe PECOTA over you for the same reasons you would believe what a guys batting average is on baseballreference.com over asking your dad.
MW: Nah, the Pierre contract was stupid, and Zito’s contract wasn’t market value at the time, it re-set the market. PECOTA doesn’t tell you what happened, PECOTA tells you what it “thinks” will happen. And as much as we’d like to believe accurate predictions are possible, they’re not.
- dan MI really think Alex Rios needs to raise his back elbow for inchs and start pulling the freaking ball!!! I don’t no why his coachs aren’t screaming at him PULL THE FREAKING BALL!
I sure hope they aren’t trying to get him to use the whole field.
is there anyone else out there who doesn’t like Jesse Barifield as a broadcaster? all I hear on here is how people love him.
- dan MGreetings from Azzurri for TOMMYJ.
- Vito From HamiltonMike, what do you think of the Mets firing Willie Randeloph? I think he got the short end of the stick here.
MW: I don’t know enough about the day-to-dayness of the Mets to know if the firing was warranted, but after the collapse last year, and the under-.500 start to this year with a better club, there wasn’t much chance he was going to survive.
- andrewHi Mike,
Two things I want to touch on today. As a fan I can only voice my displeasure by not going to the games and not watching. I follow the games by your blog, Sportscenter and reading on the net but tonight is the first game I am watching in three weeks and I will not attend another game until Gibbons is fired. Just one guy but if more of us did it maybe ownership would catch on we are not impressed.
Anyways on Gibbons why not just fire him. It would please most fans, it may or may not spark the Jays but there is nothing to lose. No team would rush out and sign Gibby thinking wow I must have this guy and he most likely will never be more then a bench coach again like everyone of JP’s managers.
Secondly, I don’t understand why Rolen seems to get the free pass I assume he is getting while a small shortshop is feeling the rath and they have the exact same numbers in the same amount of at bats. He is one of the biggest reasons the Jays are .500. He is suppose to be an RBI guy and he keeps hitting third or forth and can’t do anything productive. And please do not use intensity and defense as excuses. I assume the defense has been good but he has not rubbed off with a winning attitude on anyone. I think the jays fans should pick a day that no one attends the game until Gibbons is fired and those who have tickets should not buy concessions. Thanks and look forward to your reply.
MW: I’m amazed that you feel as though firing Gibbons is such a necessity and yet aren’t sure whether or not it’ll have a positive effect on the team. As for the Rolen/Eckstein thing, I’m not sure. I think that might have something to do with John McDonald. Honestly, people only seem to be upset with Eckstein about his defense, and a lot of that is because Johnny Mac is on the bench. You certainly can’t complain about Rolen’s defense, but you’re more than welcome to let him have it about the bat. It’s also a first impression thing. Eckstein struggled mightily at the plate early on, before he got hurt, and Rolen made an immediate impact with the bat once he got into the line-up.
- ScottMike, I’d still take Cano for Burnett. I think Cano will come around and hit more like his career numbers.
And if that deal doesn’t fly, I’d trade Burnett to Boston for Jed Lowrie. Actually I think Lowrie would be my number one choice-then we could keep Hill at second
MW: Neither will happen.
- GerryMike,
I didn’t talk around it. I mentioned it. I just didn’t think .233 was out of line with their .259 overall ave.
But lets see who is tanking the most.
Overbay – .087ave
2007 – .170
2006 – .265
2005 – .245
2004- .203
2003 – .364
Overball seems pretty up and down – likely in the .250 range – but the .170 last year does look good
Stairs – .095
2007 – .285
2006 – .240
2005 – .214
2004 – .212
2003 – .279
2002 – .179
Stair seems to be on a one up two down pattern. But he is hitting .100 points below his worst.
Barajas – .100
2007 – .133
2006 – .191
2005 – .217
2004 – .224
2003 – .259
2002 – .267
Based on this declining pattern, I sure wouldn’t want him around next season.
Rios – .154
2007 – .212
2006 – .353
2005 – .212
2005- .216
Overall looks like Rios is a .215 hitter with runners in scoring position and 2 outs
Wells – .167
2007 – .190
2006 – .270
2005 – .246
2004 – .179
2003 – .329
2002 – .247
Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Wells?
Rolen – .211
2007 – .184
2006 – .246
2005 – ..167
2004 – .329
2003 – .243
2002 – .320
ANd now for My Hyde
I seems that you have a bit of a point. Some of these guys are way below career worsts, but some of them are not. But if you put together a weak line-up and say some guys are going to tank this year and some are going to have average years, your going to get a pretty crappy result.
I’d dare say that even if the Jays hit .020 points higher with runners in scoring position and 2 outs, which amount to 6 more hits and lets say 10 more runs, the Jays would move 27th in runs scored in this position to tied for 20th.
If they hit for their ave (.259) with runners in scoring position, they would have an additonal 17 hits , which let say, would score an additonal 25 runs. This would only move them to 18th place in runs score.
I think what your harping on is part of the problem…but not the only problem.
Sorry, dont have time to proof
MW: That’s OK, solid research. Of course, there are extenuating health circumstances in some of those years which are ignored, but it shows how up-and-down the numbers can be. If the Jays had 25 more runs, provided they’d come at the right time (and that’s impossible), they could have as many as 10-12 more wins.
- JWHey Mike,
I asked you earlier about a trade regarding Burnett, but if Burnett does not end up getting traded and opts out of his contract,
a) How much money does this free up for the Jays?
b) What kind of pitcher will they be able to get with this money for 09?
and
c) What big name to middle of the rotation free agents could be on the market this offseason that the Jays might be interested in? (including if J.P. or whoever is GM is allowed to increase payroll)
Thanks
MW: Burnett’s departure would save the Jays $12 million this year and next, but I doubt they’ve had Burnett in their budget, since it’s been a virtual certainty that he’d opt out. Who could they get? Well, that’s Carlos Silva money, but you’d hope they’d be able to do better. Who will be available? Among others, Jon Garland, Braden Looper, Derek Lowe, Ben Sheets, C.C. Sabathia, Oliver Perez, Randy Wolf, and of course, Carl Pavano.
- James R.4-0 Brewers in the 5th. I really do not know what JP and “Gibby” are hoping to acheive here, Mike, but it clearly is NOT working, and the more I watch the Jays, am left with the ever increasing disappointment THAT IT SHALL NEVER WORK as long as these two guys keep running the logo into the ground.
MW: Until they win two in a row.
- Vito From HamiltonCraig Counsell hit a homerun…..what is the world coming to???
- Bernard SinghJW and Mike,
The putridity of the offense might also have something to do with the Sahara desert like paucity of extra base hits in RISP situations. You can eyeball that one by looking at ISOP (Isolated Power = Slugging Percentage – Batting Average). With the bases empty it’s .125, which is OK, with RISP it’s .092 and with RISP and 2 outs it’s .088, which is downright Duane Kuiper like.
MW: Poor Duane. He only hit one more home run in the majors than I did, and he had 3,379 more at-bats.
- TomThanks for the reply. Don’t be shocked about a me wanting Gibbons fired because it may or may not work but it can’t be any worse and maybe it will work. JP takes chances with guys like Wilkerson and Mench and the three pitchers last year as experiments so why not try and see if it does something. Again I believe they have nothing to lose and very few would be sad. But on to other things since I am 2008 Jays underwhelmed. Mike could you explain what a typical 3 day road trip is like. Do the guys get a per diem, does the team provide breakfast, lunch and dinner and after game snack? Or do they go out on their own dime. Do all guys have roommates or do guys ask in the contract to have there own rooms. What is a typical day like. I think this is one thing under covered in all sports. Thanks again.
MW: I don’t go on the road, so I can’t give intimate details. But they all get a nice, healthy per diem, and nobody has roommates. The teams provides food before and after the game.
- Scottjerry just said that the jays have only one comeback win from the 6th inning on… he said that at the end of the 6th.. i guess i might as well turn off the radio and chalk up another 1 in the L column..
MW: You wouldn’t have missed much if you had.
- ArjunMike,
I think that Fielder, Braun, Hart, and Cameron are all better hitters than any Blue Jay. Weeks is struggling this year, but long term he is probably close to making the list as well.
That is a sad commentary on the present state of the Jays’ offense.
MW: I don’t know about Hart and Cameron. Fielder and Braun you could certainly make a case.
- GregJPHow long can the Jays stick with this current regime? Doesn’t Godfrey understand that this is NOT working. SEA and NYM were both underachieving and made management changes. Why can’t the Jays learn from them. Its getting kind of ridiculous b/c it is the same thing every game. Not to mention year after year. It is just a mediocre ballclub with great pitching that cannot hit with RISP b/c they lack power and slugging. Its already Mid June. Teams are what they are at this stage of the season. Honestly, how long would you wait before you would make some management changes?
MW: Teams are what they are? Tell that to the Phillies, Cubs, Yankees and Rockies at this time last year. The situations in Seattle and Flushing are VASTLY different than this one.
- aviMW: Seriously?
Well, just curious. You are by my guess somewhere around 37-38. SO that means that when they were big back in the early 90′s. You we around 20ish. SO you probably listened to them at least if not publicly, in private. Its ok if you did, I’m sure many did. I’m at the age right now where when i was little they were huge and my sister must have played them 3000 times over and it somehow brainwashed me into knowing the lyrics to many of their more popular songs.
Yea, so out of curiosity I’m sure there was one song they had that you didn’t at least mind listening to?
MW: I don’t have a sister, which nicely kept the New Kids from my home. I don’t have a favourite song – they sucked.
- Nick I.Hey Mike I know you like J.P but, he did not make trades this season and I know you like J.P but, there has to be one thing that you didn’t like ( in a move or in a trade )!!!!!
MW: I didn’t think they needed to bring in either Eckstein or Barajas.
- Kevinso lets say the Giants only give Zito 100 million they get a free pass with Zito because it was market value at the time?
Yes the Pierre contract was stupid but some might say giving a centre fielder with a carrer .326OBP vs RH with declining defensive skills who has only posted 2 seasons with Eqa’s over .268 a seven year contract worth 126 million stupid no? especially when there is an obvious replacement playing next to him in right field.
look Mike I’m not trying to jump on the band wagon and hate on J.P. it just drives me nuts when you defend this contract by saying it was market value at the time. I don’t no a single contract that was signed that wasn’t market value or close to it at the time. So if your going to use the reasoning of not knocking a contract that is close to market value I don’t think you can knock any contract.
MW: That obvious replacement ain’t doing so hot. But it’s revisionist history – very, very few people railed against the Wells contract when it was signed. Pierre’s and Zito’s contracts weren’t market value at the time. Ryan’s and Burnett’s contracts weren’t market value at the time.
- dan Mworst offence in sports today
MW: I don’t know, France was pretty bad.
- AndrewMW “PECOTA doesn’t tell you what happened, PECOTA tells you what it “thinks” will happen. And as much as we’d like to believe accurate predictions are”
Mike we’re not stupid we know that PECOTA tells us what it “thinks” will happen. Just like you tell us what you “think” will happen. I’m just saying PECOTA is alittle more sophisticated then you looking at a players carrerr avg/obp/slg. therefore if I had to choose between what you “think” and what PECOTA “thinks” I’d go with. PECOTA
I’m not trying to knock your hustle I respect your opinion and am always excited to hear it.
do you Think Alex Rios should be told to pull the ball?
MW: But you have to go with PECOTA’s 50% projection. I think Alex Rios should be given botox in his neck to prevent him from pulling his head off the ball.
- dan MMike,
I think it may be time to make a CHANGE(oh yah it’s still early)………An entire team cannot go into such an offensive funk without there being a REASON,
fire them NOW, No not the players.
Greg
MW: Right, because the players couldn’t possibly be the REASON.
- Greg QuintonMike,
If JP fires Gibbons, JP should resign but won’t, he’s number one Chicken Little.
MW: I’m not sure you know what Chicken Little refers to.
- brunoMike,
Caught only part of the game tonight fortunately. Brother, 5 home runs – ikes! Only 4 singles on our side to show for. Rios with 3 KO’s – got to be leading the AL at least now.
Well, I know what you’re going to say, the Jays are only 7 back of TB for the Wild Card and 4 1/2 behind the A’s, so they’ve got loads of time right?
Look Mike, this isn’t rocket science, thank the lord, the Jays stink. It shows more and more everyday.
I did want to say Rance Mulliniks had some interesting comments today regarding the philosophy of Jays hitters. In short, he thinks that they are pushing pitch counts deep instead of being more reactive to lower counts in their favour, for ex if the count is 2-0, they take an extra pitch instead of being aggressive at that point.
The other thing irritates me to no end when Rios and Wells constantly whale away at first pitches nearly all the time it seems. I don’t have those kind of stats in front of me, but it seems they are too aggressive too early rather than getting even a couple of pitches in before taking a hack.
I’m no batting coach, but this team needs to see a voodoo doctor I think, they must have a jinx cast upon them. Hey maybe that’s it, we’ll get that guy from the movie Major league, have him go into the Jays locker room and sprinkle some magic dust on the boys bats, oh, we better be careful with that magic dust if you know what i mean.
Listen Mike, even if these guys win 2-3 in a row, they’re bound to lose 4-5 in a row following that and during that whole stretch bat just below the Mendoza line with batters in scoring position, never mind just above in all other situations.
J.P. and J.G. have got to go. I had it last year. I’ve been patient enough. I want to have a winner, not a collective bunch of losers who can’t dig down and find the stones to come up in big situations or in any situations for that matter.
Bye Bye J.P., hopefully sooner than later. Blow this thing up, who cares if it’s midseason, give us the rest of the year for management, hopefully not Godfrey, hope he’s fired too, to get some new blood injected into the organization.
Come on Jays, get a run at least!
- BrendanSo why isn’t Lind up here. He’s hitting .444 with risp, second in Ba in all AAA and we have 3 guys (Stewart, Melch and Wilkerson) all in the last gasp of their careers and all hitting close to the mendoza line with risp?
The two very best hitters we have in hitting with risp are Lind and our newly promoted AA catcher Arrenciba who hits .349 with risp.
Arrencibia is a ways away but to leave Lind down in AAA is stupidity.
- GerryI listened to your latest Jays Talk and you made fun of the Tigers’ broadcast for misspelling Kenny Rogers’ name. I just noticed this on the Fan’s website:
“Lyle Overbary
1st Baseman, Blue Jays, with Jerry Howarth”
Amusing.
MW: Oy.
- ShmuelI was listening to jays talk and heard you comment about blowing up the team. I think if this team is out of the race in july we should trade away alot of our parts. For example trade either Zaun or Barjas, stewart, burnett, and either scutaro or macdonald, and Eckstien. Let Thigpen, purcey, parrish and lind play the last half of the year and retool in the offseason. I am afraid JP will not sell out this year even if the writing is on the wall for fear his job is on the line. This team just doesnt look like it is going to turn the offence on anytime soon.
MW: No, it doesn’t. But neither did it in Cleveland in May. I don’t think trading Zaun or Barajas, Stewart, Burnett and either Scutaro or McDonald and Eckstein constitutes blowing the team up.
- jasonMike
These guys are squeezing the bats so tight, the sawdust build-up is going to a problem in the infield! Have you, in all your years of watching baseball seen such collective limpness of a team’s bats as this one? I really don’t know what J.P
can do? Behind closed doors, I bet you he would admit he never envisioned this!
MW: I haven’t, and I think J.P. has admitted that on the record, in public, a bunch of times.
- steve wiltonMike, Why is it that you are the only media guy that thinks the Jay’s have peices in their farm system, that they can trade to get back something signifigant, pretty much everyone that covers baseball here in Toronto and alot of baseball analyst in the U.S have frowned upon the jays farm system. What is it that you see that noone ever see’s.
Secondly, The chances of a GM losing his job increases with the amount of money spent on the roster. In that case I can see why JP has failed to bring in talent and relies on mediocrity. All the big dollars JP has spent, has been on players that were part of this organization befor his tenure.
WELLS,RIOS,HALLADAY. Aaron Hill the exception. Big money players= RISK. JP does not take risks, he plays it safe, So does his buddy Billy Bean.
If you say the Jays cannot blow up this team without touching pitching, these are my two questions.
If pitching cannot be touched then what does that say about the farm system which you claim has prospects.
With mediocrity like
Scudoro
Stairs
Mench
Wilkerson
Rolen
Eckstein
would you not blow this up
Lastly I agree with you when you say it’s not Gibby’s fault , However I totally disagree with the fact that you want to put it completely on the players. A player has no control over JP’s expectation
It’s not a players fault that the GM who brought them in automatically expects them to turn into this great player or a player they were years ago.
JP needs to look in the mirror when everyone talks about the lack of good hitters on this team.
MW: I don’t know why I continue to respond to you. Players like Lind, Purcey, Arencibia, Diaz, Jackson, Cecil and Ahrens are highly coveted trading chips. Ricciardi certianly hasn’t spent big money on players who weren’t here before his tenure, like Ryan and Burnett, like Glaus and Rolen. What does wanting to keep the tremendous major-league pitching have to do with the farm system? I don’t think Rolen is mediocre, in the least. But yes, congratulations on selecting five players who don’t play major roles on the team (with the exception of Stairs) and looking to blow them up.
- NeilJP seems to be saving the company alot of money with all his patch jobs, at the expense of winning baseball games.
- NeilTwo in a row doesn’t impress me since we all know what will happen the next two games. May was just the last gasp of a sputtering car engine about to stall. They get to June and SWOON. Happens all the time under JP’s watch. Why doesn’t JP just be a big man about it and just say look I tried and it didn’t work out, so who am I to keep the fans feet to the fire. Why not just do the dignified thing and resign and quit lingering like a house guest that never quite understands when to leave. This latest JP Production is just horrible to watch and there’s absolutely no excuse for it. It’s a broken record.
MW: Yeah, that’s what people under contract usually do. They quit. And who are you kidding, Vito? You’ve entirely changed your tune after just one win, never mind two.
- Vito From HamiltonMW: I don’t have a sister, which nicely kept the New Kids from my home. I don’t have a favourite song – they sucked.
Sadly they played consistently in my house everyday for a good 3 years and now with them back I must suffer them AGAIN…..But Mike you can say they sucked in your mind but there was a reason why they were such a great hit and why they decided to come back. They were successful in what they did and with success comes money. Even if they did suck though, there must have been one song that you wouldn’t turn off if you heard it on the radio…back then???
But i digress. I know whats wrong with they jays right now. I think its clear to everyone. Their power bats are not providing the power needed to drive in runs. That doesn’t mean just HR but driving the ball tot he gaps. Knowing this, what do you think can/will be done to fix it? Or is it going to be a wait and see some approach?? Note: They have seen for 2.5 months so far.
P.S. i know u have kids but all boys/girls or mix? This being the last New Kids on the Block question (I swear i’m not a fan of them but like i said, growing up with them in my house everyday, i have developed at least a passing interest in them…i know its still not right). If you do have a young girl then what do u think the odds are of here actually taking a liking to them as they come back from their 15 year break???
MW: I think they’re trying everything they can to fix the lack of power, there’s nothing to do but wait to see when (if?) they snap out of it. The New Kids were successful because the appealed to pre-teen girls, who are an astounding market force. I have two girls, and I doubt either will get into them when she’s a tween. They’re too old now.
- Nick I.MW: I think they’re trying everything they can to fix the lack of power, there’s nothing to do but wait to see when (if?) they snap out of it. The New Kids were successful because the appealed to pre-teen girls, who are an astounding market force. I have two girls, and I doubt either will get into them when she’s a tween. They’re too old now.
But realistically they have seen what they can do. I don’t consider myself on the camp that “this team is no where near good” Or “This team is average at best” (although int he last 2 weeks or so they have been making a really good case for the latter). I still think the likes of Rios, Overbay, Hill(when healthy) wont produce a whole season of under average numbers but it could also be that maybe the blue jays overvalued them somewhat?? I don’t know what else to think other than maybe after a team struggles so much for so long it gets in their head and the only way to get out of it is to stimulate them somehow/someway. I don’t know what else it can be, I just find it really really weired that they have collectively been bad in key situations. You would think that maybe someone would deviate from the group, but thats not the case.
And as for your assertion about the new kids, they were still very successful and people in high places right now feel that they can be successful again. Judging by the reception at the MMVA’s I’m going to guess that your kids will fall into that group…watch you will see. Come back to me in a year when you get bombarded by them in your house everyday. AND then you will understand what i had to go through when i was only a young boy entering kindergarten. It was very sad.
MW: Not in my house!
- Nick I.I can’t help but think the sporting media here is responsible for some of the hype about newcomers arriving to be the saviors of teams.
Just because Ricciardi ate breakfast and sat beside Billy Beane does not make him Billy Beane. It is regretful that his arrival brought about automatic visions of World Series.
As far as Burnett is concerned, he was essentially kicked off of the Marlins in 2005 at the end of the season for comments generally agreed to be contrary to the cause (not that it mattered in late September anyway). He may have told the truth but there are times that maybe you shouldn’t – I think this was one of them. The A.J. hype from the press was pretty substantial too (remember the commercial about the kid and the chess game – “hey kid, I pitched a no-hitter”). He didn’t mention that he walked nine and somehow still managed to win. Andy Hawkins must have been jealous about that one.
And I didn’t realize that Doug Hobbs still scored baseball games. I remember him from his years on the radio in St. Catharines, it’s unfortunate that he seems to be out of radio entirely now.
MW: Billy Beane has never been to the World Series, and Burnett wasn’t “essentially” kicked off the Marlins, he was – no need to qualify it.
- Rob MMW: Yeah, that’s what people under contract usually do. They quit. And who are you kidding, Vito? You’ve entirely changed your tune after just one win, never mind two.
I’m not saying for JP to quit. I’m saying for him to do the honourable thing and resign in recognition of the amount of non-confidence (save for you) the vast majority of Jays Nation has in him. Where’s his pride? More importantly, where’s Teddy? How come Rogers NEVER speaks? I’d like to see you bring ROGERS on show and let the fans have their go at him, that is if he’s brave enough. And yes what is most annoying about the Jays, is that they can win a couple of games, fill you up with sunshine, then chew you up, and spit you out with negating losing streak. Overall, this team has no cause to inspire any hope in anyone. Not since the Bay of Pigs have I seen such utter incompetence.
MW: Then you haven’t been watching the Tampa Bay Devil Rays for their entire franchise history save this year, or the Toronto Maple Leafs – just two quick examples.
- Vito From HamiltonMike everytime a individual mentions the Blue Jays
struggles and that changes need to be made, You always feel the need to again and again bring up some irrellavant convienant truth about the Yankees last year or the Tigers this year or Seattle and Clevaland. I think that point borders on idiocy, Anyone who knows the game of baseball knows that there is a greater chance of Clevland,Detroit and Yankees snaping out of it, because of the high profile talent and young players, both this year and in years past. Not to mention Yankees last year overcame multiple injuries to their pitching staff and a slow start. They did this with the high profile vetrans and young players that provide superb offense.
in contrast
Blue Jays have shown us nothing this year and in the past several years that would allow the fans to believe that they are cut out to get back into the race. Therfore when you talk about a teams current misfortunes, measure there odds of bouncing back by looking at their current personell and their success
in recent years.
By the way, why is it when you talk about the standings you mention to listeners how far Blue Jays are behind the Yankess as oppose to the first place teams. I don’t believe major league baseball has seperate standings according to what Mike Wilner thinks will happen in the end, the standings are the standings. The Jays are 9.0 games out of first in the East behind Boston and 7.0 behind Tampa in the Wildcard.
Again telling a convienant truth to suite your prediction, just like always using one or two stats to prove your point about a player as oppose to a players full stats, I guess in your eyes one stat does not affect the rest.
MW: I’m just going to let you rant from now on, Neil. I’m tired.
- NeilMW: Not in my house!
fair enough…..but come back to me in 6 months when they are playing 24/7 in your home…..
MW: Ain’t gonna happen.
- Nick I.MW: Ain’t gonna happen.
Mike your commitment to everything non-new kids is great but i doubt your children have the same foresight and will that you do….just wait it will happen, then you will see the struggle i had to go through….
MW: Ain’t gonna happen.
- Nick I.