11:30 PM Eastern
A lot to deal with as far as tonight’s game goes, but a story first – one that’s going into my “coolest things that have ever happened to me” file. I promise, I’m not trying to drag out talking about The Super G’s birthday, but we decided to take the family to Chuck E. Cheese’s for lunch, since The Billie is off school this week and next for Passover, and if we waited to have a big birthday dinner tonight, I would have been at the ballpark.
It was pretty dead at the Chuckster’s, which was awesome because there were no line-ups for any of the games and no kids running around the place, which allowed the G to roam freely, but there were a couple of other families there, and I thought I recognized one of the fathers. I could have sworn this guy looked just like Lennox Lewis, former Canadian Olympic gold medallist and heavyweight champion of the world, but there was no way. The more I saw him, though, the guy was a dead ringer, so eventually I walked up to him and said something along the lines of: “Sorry to bother you, but this would really bug me if I didn’t ask – you look a whole lot like Lennox Lewis.” He smiled and nodded, and we talked for a good 15-20 minutes. Seriously – who gets to hang out with a world heavyweight champ at Chuck E. Cheese’s?
He talked about a gym that he’s opening in Kitchener, about starting his 4 year-old son skating, about the Olympics and how much he’s looking forward to going to Vancouver 2010, and we talked about our kids as we watched them run around playing games. His two-year old daughter is almost as big as the Super G, who turned four today.
She’s hilarious, by the way – The Gillian, I mean. She came up to me this morning wondering why she wasn’t any bigger, now that she’s four.
I invited Lewis to a Jays game, but he declined, for tonight anyway. I was hoping he might come down and we could throw him on the post-game show. He has my card, though, and said “see you later” as he left – so you never know.
Now, onto the baseball – and man, what a game we got. Early on, a tremendous pitchers’ duel between David Purcey and Edwin Jackson, and then a slugfest at the end, with eight runs scored over the final three innings.
Purcey was tremendous, except for the seventh inning, and even in that seventh he hung in there beautifully when things were falling apart around, and because of, him – which puts his value up a notch or three in Cito Gaston’s book. Purcey went into that 7th inning having allowed just one run on three hits, on a Brandon Inge double followed by a sac bunt and a sac fly. Even that double was tainted, because Travis Snider made a phenomenal play on the carom off the wall, turned and made an even better throw right to the bag at second, beating Inge, but Aaron Hill reached out to tag Inge because he hadn’t arrived yet, and Inge got his hand on the bag before Hill tagged him on the shoulder.
The Jays had no answer for Jackson, though, managing just one hit through seven, a Vernon Wells laser beam double off the wall in left that missed going out by a foot or two, and in the 7th the Tigers picked up a couple more. One of them came when, with a run already in and runners on second and third, Purcey was given the order to intentionally walk Inge, and he couldn’t. Purcey’s first intentional ball wasn’t close to Rod Barajas and went all the way to the backstop, but it bounced off so hard that Carlos Guillen couldn’t score from third. Marcus Thames, the runner at second, thought Guillen would, though, and got hung up between second and third. Purcey had taken Barajas’ throw at the plate, and saw that Thames was meatcake, but he fired the ball over Marco Scutaro’s head and into centrefield, allowing Guillen to score and moving Thames to third.
That was the “oh, crap” moment of the game. The one at which it’s easy to turn a 3-0 deficit into a 6-0 deficit and say goodnight, and the one at which Cito Gaston believes he can find out tons about a young pitcher’s make-up and mentality. Purcey went on to strike out Inge, and then get Adam Everett on a liner to third. A really hard line drive that required a spectacular play by Scott Rolen but hey, that’s what the defense is there for. Purcey didn’t let the inning get away from him after his mistake, and in so doing he passed a big test.
The Jays got him off the hook with a dramatic two-out, three-run homer by Aaron Hill in the bottom of the eighth that put them on top for the first time all night, but B.J. Ryan blew the save – Inge took him deep, way deep, into the 200 level right in front of what used to be Windows restaurant in left-centre.
I was hopeful, but not optimistic, when I saw Ryan do his trademark mad dash in from the bullpen after the 8th. I was waiting to see what the radar gun would show, and I was waiting to see whether or not he’d throw strikes. He answered both of those questions the way I’d hoped he would, it’s just that one of those strikes went for an awfully long ride. But here’s the thing: It was one bad pitch. As I mentioned a couple of times on The JaysTalk, all it was was one bad pitch. Otherwise, he looked like B.J. Ryan again. He threw strikes, he hit 89 on the gun and hung out consistently at 87-88, he got a couple of ground ball outs, made Thames look silly striking out and gave up a check-swing looper for a single. Aside from blowing the save by giving up that home run – and that’s a LOT to put aside – he looked fine. Last year, we saw Ryan get a whole lot of saves during which he didn’t look nearly as good as he did tonight.
It’s weird. Ryan blew the save, but I’m not nearly as worried about him now as I was when I saw him coming in from the bullpen. Time will tell, though.
In the bottom of the 9th, there was Adam Lind working a nine-pitch walk with one out to start the rally. Walks are important – you’ll recall it was Alex Rios’ two-out walk with the bases empty in the first last night that opened the door to a four-run inning. Rolen, who had homered in the 8th for the Jays’ first run, singled to right-centre to drive pinch-runner Jose Bautista to third, and after an intentional walk to Lyle Overbay, Rod Barajas hit a 2-2 pitch to more-than-deep-enough centre to drive in the winning run. A walkoff win to send 16,790 (about 5,000 more than I expected) home happy. I don’t think the Jays got their first walk-off win until just before the all-star break last season.
Two cool things that bear mentioning before I finish this long-winded post:
A – If the Detroit Tigers have Lyle Overbay at first base, they win this game. Miguel Cabrera couldn’t pick the not-so-short hop that Brandon Inge sent his way on an Overbay grounder in the 8th, and the error set the stage for the rally leading up to Hill’s three-run bomb. It’s something most Jays fans don’t even think about while they’re railing against Overbay for not hitting 30 homers a year and grounding into fewer double plays than Derek Jeter and Vladimir Guerrero, but Overbay picks that ball without blinking. He saves the Jays plenty on defense.
I understand there’s a space-time continuum issue in that if Overbay was playing first for the Tigers, they’d have won the game because he’d have picked a throw on a grounder that he himself hit, but I hope we can all just get past that.
2 – As a result of Cabrera not coming up with that throw, and the error being charged to Inge, the last three Jays runs in the 8th inning were unearned – but just against the Tigers’ team total. Brandon Lyon came in with the situation already in place and gave up a single to Marco Scutaro and then the Hill homer, so the two runs charged to him in the 8th inning were earned. But only on his record, not the team’s. This doesn’t happen often, but when it does, it’s pretty cool.
We had our first extendo-JaysTalk of the season tonight, and here it is for your listening pleasure:
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Tomorrow night, you can find us on AM1150 Hamilton if you’re in the Toronto listening area, so make sure you tune in there to hear Jesse Litsch make his season debut against Detroit’s Zach Miner. It’ll likely work the same as tonight did, in that the Fan590 will join us in progress late, and we’ll be able to have a normal JaysTalk as we did tonight.
Rational, reasonable comments are always welcome!
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What do you think of Bobcats 90+ win prediction for the Jays?
MW: When did that happen?
- Jeffcouple comments:
Does it bug you that managers are so enslaved to the idea that the closer has to come out for the ninth in a save opp, regardless of the circumstances. Tonight the Tigers had Thames and Inge to start the inning, both batters that mash LH pitching. Ryan did ok, but it makes all kind of sense to bring in a righty to start that inning.
2. The RISP gods are being much kinder to start the year.
MW: I have always said that your best reliever should come on to get the most important relief outs, whenever in the game those should be needed, so I kind of agree with you. That said, mentality is a big issue, and it appears as though to make them happy, the closers have to be the closers. I look forward to the time that thinking shifts, but I doubt it will. As to the second point, they were only 1-for-5 with RISP Tuesday night BUT they have scored five of the six runners who have reached third with less than two out.
- Pee WeeI’d like to see the highlight one more time of the ball Cabrera didn’t pick from the dirt, cause it looked like it hit the seam between the dirt and turf. Not 100% that Overbay would have had that.
I don’t think Guccione blew either call at 2nd base. What did you think?
MW: I don’t think it hit the seam, but I’m not sure. I’m sure Overbay would have picked it. The call at second on the Inge slide was the right one, and if you look at the replay on the grounder where Polanco appeared to come off the bag, it will show that he didn’t – but there’s no way Ted Williams could have seen that, never mind Guccione.
- Ryan McCallenMcCowan gave the 90 win prediction Monday afternoon. Very surprising since he’s been very low on the Jays at the start of the last few seasons.
MW: Ever the contrarian, Bob is.
- PaulIts true…The franchise said it multiple times earlier this year and re-enforced the prediction today !
MW: I’m stunned.
- LaffinatorDid Lennox speak with a fake British accent? I always found it funny that when Lennox turned pro he suddenly sounded like a cast member from Faulty Towers. When it is all said and done Lennox Lewis will be talked about as one of the greatest of all time. He beat all the top heavyweights of his era. Meeting him is indeed, pretty cool.
MW: Fawlty Towers, and no, there wasn’t a strong British accent – I know what you mean. Thing is, he did live in England until he was, what, 13? I can imagine it wouldn’t take long for the accent to come back once he moved back.
- PJMr. Wilner:
Hope you enjoyed Chuck’E's without the great unwashed public intruding. It’s always nice when you take your kids to a popular place and lo! nobody is there! It’s like you are the only person with the day off…
The only Chuck.E celebrity I ever met was the guy who usually dressed as the main Chuck.E. mascot in Whitby, who was enjoying a night off – AT CHUCK-E-CHEESE!!! In Whitby! One wonders. I seriously hope his significant other was on shift and he was waiting for said other. I was too aghast to ask.
Should I be worried about Aaron Hill’s defense? Since I am not a pro ball player, I have no idea how long it takes to get into the defensive groove, so I can only comment as a fan. On opening day he let a DP ball eat him up on the second batter of the game – but still got the DP. Then there were two GB’s in the 8th, at least one of which (note my subtlety there, I can’t remember which one took the turf-dirt-turf-dirt hop) could have been playable.
Then today all he had to do was bend down enough to tag Inge’s hand/arm but alas he didn’t which led to the Tigers’ first run.
My argument is that he is just getting back into form, but this is a tough argument to make given the 30-odd spring training games they all went through to get the kinks worked out.
Yes, everyone, I saw the 3-run HR. It doesn’t obviate my question! Although it might relegate it to moot status.
MW: There was only one play I saw that I thought Hill should have made, and it was that grounder in the 8th in the opener. But even then, he was on the shortstop side of the bag when the ball got by him. The tag was a brain fart, and I don’t think that first-inning grounder ate him up. As well, over the first two games, I have three 4-3 plays with stars beside them. I’m not worried at all about his defense.
- James (from the 'Shwa)Awesome game. I was almost late for work waiting to see the outcome. Purcey looked pretty good tonight which hopefully bodes well for a pitching staff that is suspect at best. Nice to see the bats come off to a great start and so far to games in a row where big hits came with 2 outs. Here’s hoping for great things.
- StevenI don’t believe McCown really thinks they will win 90+. I think he’s trying to create interesting radio. His arguements are not based on anything concrete. Mostly on “ifs and buts and candies and nuts”. Very unMcCown like. If he really believes the Jays win 90+ then I believe it isn’t the radio host speaking, its the fan. He is still a Blue Jay fan, right?
MW: I don’t know, you’d have to ask Bob.
- TimKind of an unexpected comeback, but nice to see. Great clutch HR by Hill and leadoff walk for Lind in the 9th and a solid at bat by Barajas to win the game. Jays now lead the Rays by a game and half.
One thing sort of puzzled me. Jerry Howarth continually referred to three of the Blue Jays’ four runs in the 8th inning as unearned. This is of course incorrect. Why would he consider the two runs off Lyon to be unearned? Would somebody not notify him of this?
MW: Jerry was absolutely correct. Three of the Jays’ runs in the 8th inning were unearned. The runs that Lyon gave up were earned, but only against him, as I explained in the post on which you’re commenting. And Lind’s walk in the 9th came with one out.
- KenThe Bobcat did indeed say they’ll have 90+ wins. I’m not going to jump the gun from these first two games, but they’ve hit like they never did until the end of last year. I don’t think I’ve ever been so involved with the second game of the year. This was great baseball. Hopefully Litsch can help us keep the chains moving. Whatever happens, GO JAYS!
- WarrenMichael. I thought I had a big brush with fame at my job in a Niagara Falls hotel 2 years ago. I met a gentleman from Illinois who I thought was a dead ringer for Barack Obama, who was still a senator at the time, but he wasn’t. Other people
Too bad the game wasn’t televised, so I listened to the radio, just like I used to in the days when the only days you got Jays games on the tube was Wednesdays and Sundays. The rest of the time I would listen to CKFH/CJCL/Fan 590, first with Tom and Early, then Tom and Jerry, and now yourself, Jerry, and Alan. And we didn’t mind it, the young Jays fans have it so easy.
Peter, St.Catharines
- PeterWhat did you think of Leyland’s decision to intentionally walk Overbay? He’d hit nothing but ground balls all night, and seems to hit into more than his fair share of double plays. I was [pleasantly] surprised by the decision, although I see Leyland’s thinking.
MW: I was thinking the same thing you were at the time, that Lyle was a good candidate to hit into a double play there, but like you, I can see Leyland’s thinking.
- Chris - ThoroldIt happened yesterday. He said the Jays would win 90-95 games and shock everyone.
- Peterhe made the prediction on monday to start off prime time
- JoshWe will probably agree to disagree on BJ Ryan, but I would love to see him traded, if we can get someone decent for him.
At one point last season, I tallied the number of times he allowed at least two runners and it was around 42% of his appearances. I did the same for a few other closers – I think they were Papelbon, Rivera and one other that I can’t remember, and the worst of these three allowed two runners only about 28% of the time. His WHIP of 1.28 was in the bottom half of the AL. It makes me nervous when I see him running in from the bullpen.
Closers should do just that, “close the door”. BJ leaves the door open far too often.
MW: He certainly did last year, no question, despite the fact that he got the job done far, far, far more often than not. I’m still willing to give him the benefit of the doubt this year, despite last night.
- Alansolid win tonight! That was def. the quickest walkoff to start the season in quite a while and it was good to see them battle back to win it, even with Ryan coughing it up!
- Dave BrantfordHey Mike,
Did Lyle Overbay change his number this season? If yes, do you know why?
MW: Yes and yes. I even did a story on it in the spring. He went back to 17 now that Frank Thomas is gone, since 35 didn’t work for him the last two years.
- Justin from ArdtreaHi Mike,
Great start to the year….when do World Series tickets go on sale? This is going to be an incredibly enjoyable year simply because we have so many young players and if nothing else, there’s an element of the unknown in seeing how they will pan out. To me, that is more tantalising and fascinating than watching the regular veterans go out, whether the outcomes are positive or negative.
This sounds arrogant and rude, but man, I cannot believe some of the naive questions you get on Jays Talk. It’s unbelievable!
- Oz RobHey Mike
People aren’t looking at the BJ Ryan situation in the right way. At least this way we might have the leagues first 20 game winner
MW: By the end of April, huh?
- Tarun Joseph^
During PrimeTime sports the day before the Hope Opener McCowan said he thought 90 wins was possible. His reasoning was this team should be strong offensively, even calling for a strong rebound from “at least one” of Overbay or Rolen, to go with Hill, Snyder, Lind, Wells, Rios etc etc..
As for the pitching, he reasoned that no one knew Marcum would be very good when he was our #5, and McGowan wasn’t even on the team before his breakout year(was in either AAA or the bullpen), so he reasoned that some of the young live arms COULD surprise(Romero, Purcey, etc), and with a better offense, and bullpen that is again one of if not the best in baseball, they could surprise alot of people.
Yes…he actually said that. I was a little surprised, but excited.
- KevinWhat’s your opinion of Huey Lewis?
MW: I’m a big fan.
- TylerMichael of the Ballyard:
A couple things, I think…
1) You’re not being serious about banning alcohol sales at the Dome.
2) Is it fair to say that if the Jays are competitive for a playoff spot, they’ll need to have several viable Rookie of the Year candidates?
MW: I understand that some people feel the need to drink at a sporting event, but it wouldn’t bother me if they didn’t sell alcohol. Remember, Exhibition Stadium was dry for the first few years of the Jays’ existence. And no, I don’t think that’s necessarily the case.
- JCLYeah, Bob McCown said the Jays will win 90-plus games on Monday’s show . . .
I’m sure the Tigers are wishing they had Lyle Overbay as their first baseman.
How about everytime Johnny Mac makes a solid defensive play, you build a case the other team would have won if they had Johnny Mac at shortstop?
Good for Overbay for making a scoop at first base. There are still 25 other first basemen in the major leagues who the Jays would take in a heartbeat.
MW: 25?
- Ken PaganGood closers rarely blow two saves in a row so let’s give Beej another chance and if he blows the next one and keeps struggling with his velocity, then I think it’s time to consider your other options. I’ve two questions, how long is Beej’s leash? And is Miguel Cabrera(my favorite baseball player by the way) really 6’4″? You’ve seen him, he doesn’t look that tall does he? What’s up with players’ billed heights so to speak? They seem pretty inflated.
P.S: sorry! slow news day as Jays won, so nothing negative to say.;)
MW: I don’t know that I’ve ever stood right beside Cabrera, but he doesn’t seem to be that tall to me, either. I don’t know if Ryan gets the next save opportunity if it comes tonight, but chances are he will. I don’t think the leash is going to be all that long.
- BeburgDo you think the Jays should pick up Chad Gaudin on a minor league contract and give then another guy to be a possible starter?
MW: If they can, sure, but they’ll have competition.
- BrentHey Mike. I just wanted to make a comment about the whole drunks at the game situation on opening night. I was at the game with a group of friends in the 200 outfield and im not going to lie to you here, we definitely got some drunk. The difference is, is that we have respect for the people around us and avoid making it an uncomfortable time for anybody around us.I guess the point im trying to make is that not everybody who has a few drinks at the game is going to be a jerk. I bet that the jerks that threw the crap on the field are probably just jerks in general……sober or not….Also,I think that johnny macdonald should start whenever halladay is pitching.When doc is on the mound your not going to need alot of runs to win the game anyway so does having scoots bat in the lineup really make that much of a difference over johnnys? what do you think?? thanks mike. keep up the good work.take care
MW: I agree completely that simply drinking doesn’t turn a normal person into a jackass, unless you’re Matt Bush. I also agree with you that Johnny Mac should be Halladay’s personal shortstop.
- trevor bMike, great game tonight, even if I only managed to catch the last inning. I have a comment and a request: I was watching Connected to see the game highlights and was unimpressed with the condescending way in which the Jays game was described by Don Taylor. I’ve never been a fan of Sporstnet and their excessive hockey focus, but at least don’t p*** off fans that follow baseball by implying the inferiority of the game with a string of stupid comments culminating in: “Now, if there’s an exciting play in sports, it’s the walkoff sack fly”. %^*$*&@-off please.
My question: Since you’re a Rogers employee, where is the best place to send a complaint about Sporstnet baseball “coverage” and is it even worth doing so?
Thanks.
MW: I don’t really have any insight into that, I would guess you would call Sportsnet and ask to talk to the big boss.
- Wiffleballs1. What’s happening with Jays coverage? The broadcast is booted from the Fan for 2 days in a row to cover the Raptors, who are just playing out the string. The Jays used to be 590′s premier contract. Last night the only TV coverage was a feed from the Tigers’ broadcast by Fox.
2. I think the discussion with a caller about pitchers the team could have signed for $ 3 million was ridiculous. As you said, you couldn’t get anyone worthwhile at that price. The point to make is that the team should have signed an established starter and created the payroll room to do it. Ownership should be harshly criticized for not doing that. Are you allowed to make that point?
MW: 1 – There are a lot of Jays games in April that aren’t televised, more than any other month of the season, it’s always been that way. Same with Raptor/Jays conflicts. In April, we get pushed off the Fan a lot. Nothing unusual there. 2 – I’m allowed to make any point I feel is valid, and I don’t know that I think that’s the right thing to do.
- JohnTwo nights so far, both featuring clutch hitting. The two out, come from behind 3 run homer by Hill, I’m having trouble remembering a similar successful at bat from last season. I’m not completely sold yet on the offense but good teams do good things on the field, and there appears to be something to like about this years team.
MW: You may not remember it, but there were lots. The Jays had the third- or fourth-best record in the league after the all-star break last year, and there were plenty of big clutch hits.
- MontyBaseball and Family.. Nothing like having a great passion for both of them with the latter being priority.. Mike, I was wondering about guys in the aaa league who are up and commers like Emaus who plays second usually.. Obviously there is no room for him in the near future and he can be a trading chip for the club.. Its not unlike the same situation voo-doo Joe is in.. Joe did everything you could ask of him with Hill being out and more..This is great for the club because you have depth but in some ways some guys can get caught in a bad situation where they cant get enough time in the big show because thier parent clubs are to stacked.. You always here the good stuff like Richmond scraping barnicles of ships in north van bc. and playing in the independent leagues because they actually made it to the show.. I go back a bit when I lived in T.O. and I used to go and watch the Leafs play at the foot of bathurst st. at Jack kent cook stadium.. At that time the leafs were the Red Sox minor league club.. Reggie smith, Mike andrews and even one of the managers, I believe was Dick Williams.. There was guys there like fire-ball Freddy Wenze and Owen long ball Johnson who never got a sniff at the show because at that time the Sox had no room.. I know this is a little bit away from our JAYS, but is there anybody you know , that falls into this unfortunate category.. Your not one of these guys are you Mike? Till next time..
MW: I’m very definitely not one of those guys. I don’t think that unfortunate category exists anymore – at least not for long – what with minor-league free agency, for starters. Emaus is in AA, by the way.
- FLIPPERBobcat predicted 90+ wins on opening day – “gut feeling”
- FrankThe pitch that BJ gave up the home run on was a letter-high fastball a good 2 inches off the plate. 9/10 times you’ll see a guy whiff on that pitch from BJ, and that other time you’ll see them flare it into short-right. It was excellent hitting that got Inge to bomb it to left-center, not bad pitching from BJ. People need to relax.
MW: It was a bad pitch, one that leaked back over the middle of the plate.
- PeteHey Mike,
Most enjoyable comeback. Comparing Scott Rolen and Brandon Inge’s performance last night was instructive. Inge fired a couple of balls in the dirt, picking up an error that gave the Jays the game. Rolen made three or four great plays. And his every throw to first was right there. Overbay didn’t have to move his glove an inch. In fact, I’ve never seen Rolen make a bad throw. Mike Schmidt (who should know third basemen, right?) once called Rolen the best defensive third basemen he’d ever seen. To which I can only say ditto. If he can hit 270, smack 15 more home runs and knock in 70 this year, Rolen, given his superb defense, will be an asset.
Steve
- steveIt wound up not being a big deal, but what were your thoughts on the ball/strike calls on Purcey compared to Jackson? I really felt Jackson got a LOT more close pitches go his way than Jackson, more than what you’d expect in a youngster/veteran pitching match-up (and I didn’t really think Jackson was at a level in his career where he’d be getting all those close calls in the first place).
Anyways, just a small thing I noticed. More importantly, a great comeback for the Jays. Huge bomb by Hill, great too see him find some success early on.
MW: I’m assuming you meant that Jackson got more calls than Purcey. I didn’t notice any discrepancy one way or the other. Funny, too, that you’d think of it as a youngster/veteran match-up. Actually, Purcey is older than Jackson.
- WDMMike, I’m a new listner..you do a great job…matter of fact the whole radio broacast team is entraining. The Jays can’t win them all but we can enjoy the broadcast and Jay’s talk.
Thanks
MW: Thanks, and keep listening!
- Norman WrightDo you think having Arencibia coming up as the catcher of the future will affect the pitching game because although his bat may become a great asset, the loss of a veteran like Barajas could be felt in the pitching game ?
MW: Nope.
- LaffinatorHi Mike,
What a great game today. I was most impressed by the battle between Purcey and Jackson. They really put on a great show.
This was a game that the Jays would have lost last year. In the past after struggling against a pitcher, the bullpen would come in and it would look like that Jays had just given up. But throughout the game they battled and when the bullpen stepped in they jumped all over them.
Finally, it’s great to see Hill play so well. He also made a great play defensively on a hot shop in the 9th that could have made the solo shot a one run deficit. I am really looking forward to watching this team this year. They seem to have a never die attitude that was missing for most of last year. Hopefully this will be a trend for the season.
MW: You’re not the first to say that this was a game the Jays would have lost last year. Let’s all not forget, the Jays had two bad months last season, but for the other four this was a dominant team.
- Andrew ClarkMike, you know you should be taking your daughter bowling for her birthday party! Too bad Lennox hadn’t taken you up on your invite, that would have been a knock out! I agree with your asessment of B.J., I actually thought he got squeezed a couple times as well. I guess what happened to Purcey should go under the “what doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger” category because that was one bazarre play!
- Dan from ElmvaleThe Champ! That is an awesome story. We see him around Kitchener-Waterloo every once in awhile but never at a place like Chuck-E Cheese. I hope you can get him on JaysTalk sometime cause he seems like a pretty cool guy.
I agree completely with your statements about BJ Ryan. I think some of the media in this area are looking for something negative to report about this team and figure because BJ is getting paid so much to be automatic every night that he’s a good target. He looked good and made one bad pitch to Inge, who to be honest is starting to become a Jays killer of late. Reminds me of Carney Lansford back in the late 80′s early 90′s as a guy you wouldn’t expect to hurt you but does somehow.
I watched the game last night on through FS Detroit’s feed but I didn’t catch who the broadcasters where. I thought they did a great job and I was just wondering who they are and what their background was? The commentator said that his son played college ball with Purcey in Alaska. Thought that was a neat story.
Thanks Mike.
MW: The Tiger broadcasters are Mario Impemba and former Tigers outfielder Rod Allen.
- JeffMike,
I can’t figure out what it is about Edwin Jackson which makes him so tough against the Jays or perhaps more accurately and conversely why the Jays can’t seem to hit him. He throws a lot of fairly straight fastballs (92-93mph mainly) and many times (from the TV camera) they seem to be in the middle third of the plate (and I’m generalizing all the games he pitches against the Jays even as a member of TB). His pattern seems to be the same all the time, establish his fastball the first 4-5 innings then work in his changeup/slider more after. Would a better approach not be to jump on his fastballs early?
MW: I guarantee you those fastballs aren’t in the middle third of the plate. When Jackson has his control, he’s very, very, very good. He just doesn’t seem to have his control against too many others that often.
- Joachim TsuiHey Mike,
It’s refreshing to see the daily blog updates… You should razz Bergie for slacking lately!
Also, Bobcat called 90 wins with Brunt and Ashby on PrimeTime Monday. I loved the optimism! 90+ may be unrealistic, but last night the Jays showed they can find ways to win ballgames. Great opening series so far.
- TomHey Mike, is there going to be a pitcher’s duel on Saturday in Cleveland? Reigning Cy young winner vs. should have been Cy young winner? They bumped off Anthony Reyes to let Lee start on his fifth day I believe… hopefully (and most probably) Halladay will show everyone who the real cy young winner is!
MW: That’s the word on the street – Halladay vs. Lee on Saturday. And we all expect Doc to show the pretender to the throne who’s boss.
- MelMike,
As good a handle as you have on the English language, it really irks me that you (like tons of other people) misuse the phrase that someone “could care less”.
It doesn’t even make sense to say someone “could care less” when you are talking about them having a low level of caring. It’s COULDN’T care less. I don’t know why so many people say/write that wrong.
Anyway, not trying to jump down your throat here, all in all, I couldn’t be happier to have your blog and JaysTalks back. You do an amazing job, keep it up!
Now a question – there’s been a lot of talk that Richmond is merely a temporary pitcher for Toronto until one of Cecil or Mills is ready to take the ball. Obviously that’s not a foregone conclusion – how well do you think Richmond would have to pitch to force Toronto’s hand and to keep his place on the roster?
In that case, is it likely his value in a trade could go up (or, actually begin to exist) and the Jays would pursue trading him?
MW: You’re right on the could/couldn’t care less thing, but for some reason it seems to carry more weight without the additional syllable. I don’t know why. But you’re right. As far as the Richmond thing goes, if he pitches well enough to stay up here, he’ll stay up here, and by that I mean solid 5th starter outings of six innings, three runs, stuff like that.
- ColeI’m not a boxing fan, but that is a pretty cool story. To run into him at a Chuck E. Cheese’s and all. I hope he does come on your show sometime. Is he still in shape or did he go all George Foreman on us?
MW: I wouldn’t have wanted to get into the ring with him.
- Vava“Looking at the schedule this year the Blue Jays only play nine games against their chief rivals (you have to include the Rays now) until June 27th. For the remainder of the season they play these three teams 42 times.”
This is a truly amazing split.
In the first 35 games there are none against the Big Three.
Then 9 of the next 19, followed by another stretch of 25 games without playing those three teams again.
In the final 83 games there are 45 (well over half) against the Rays, Red Sox, and Yankees. Let’s enjoy the first half of the season. Maybe they will enable them to build up confidence for the tough second half.
And just to top it off the three games before that stretch are against the defending World Series Champs, so 48 of the last 86 games are against the Rays, Yankees, Red Sox, & Phillies.
Enjoy.
MW: So you’re not planning to enjoy the games against the Yankees, Rays, Red Sox and Phillies?
- KenI am pretty excited about this team. They are not expected to do well and my feeling is they know it. That to me tells me they are not playing under any pressure and will succeed better than most people think. Cito has a way of bringing out the best in the players and the youngsters will do well under his watchful eye. 90+ wins is not as far a reach as people think. Go Jays!!
- Glen MarslandHey mike,
I’ve been listening pretty intently to your pre-game shows and Jaystalk shows as well in the past couple of years… First off, I wanted to say that, that’s AMAZING that you met Lennox Lewis in “CHUCK E CHEESE’S” of all places???? Man, that’s cool…
Anyway, I remember you said last year maybe I think 5 games in, Jays were 4-1 quote “I have that feeling again about the Jays from the season they won the world series” I know it’s only 2 games in, but with Cito on the bench you can only feel the aggression and grit he brings with him, though it may be subtle… either way I notice a huge difference in the team and that they’re gonna do some big things this season… alright hope to get on your talk show one of these days
MW: I’m pretty sure I never said that. The Jays started last season 3-2.
- DUANEHi Mike:
Seems to me, I remember seeing Earl Weaver pulling his team off the field at Exhibition stadium because he was upset about the infield tarpaulin down the left field line, which was kept there in case of rain. The game was forfeited to the Blue Jays.
MW: Yup.
- StanBobcat was chatting on the Monday roundtable when he made the prediction that he wouldn’t be surprised at a 90 win season. Basically stating that 1 or 2 of the pitchers are going to surprise, much like Marcum and McGowan a couple of years ago. Lind and Snider are the real deal.
Exciting way to start a season. Can’t ask for anything better. Can the Jays hold onto 1st place for more than a day though.
With tonight being a night game and tomorrow an early afternoon, is Ricky Romero going to debut with Bautista at 3rd, Johny Mac at SS, Kevin Millar at 1B, Lind in LF, Snider moved to RF with Rios in CF with Wells as the DH? This really isn’t all that bad a lineup. It’s nice to have some guys on the bench that actually increase the defence (Mac), and have some pop coming in.
Should be another good one tonight.
MW: I would think that the line-up will be rather different for the day game, but I don’t know if the whole bench will play. Lind will be in left, for sure.
- Aaron KerGlad to see the Blue Jays pick up their bats in the later innings. I thought Purcey had a good game. He went a good distance for his first start of this season. I think he’ll be with the ball club all year. I would like to know two things. Why was Jesse Litch not the #2 starter? As well as why Scott Richmond isn’t good enough for the #4 position. I’ve never heard of Ricky Romero that much, is he really better then Scott Richmond?
Thanks
MW: They wanted to break up the two lefties, which is why Litsch slots in between Purcey and Romero. Romero certainly outpitched Richmond in the spring, for whatever that’s worth, and I think his ceiling is a lot higher than Richmond’s.
- StevenJust thought I would chime into the Scutaro/Hill debate about the leadoff. I like Hill in the leadoff even if his OBP is similar to Scutaro because of his power. I would rather give Hill more at bats than Scutaro because of the potential of doubles and bombs. I don’t understand the psychology that Cito believes in (Snider bats lasts so he gets less pressure). You know what your job is when you get into the box and the pressure is always on. Batting Snider last means that he will get the fewest at bats on the team — that’s nuts.
Here is my batting order:
Hill
Overbay
Rios
Snider
Wells
Lind
Rolen
Scutaro
Barajas
It is a balanced lineup of lefties/righties (R,L,R,L,R,L,R,R,R). This lineup is logical, but I don’t think Cito is.
MW: That line-up has the same balance as the current line-up does, with four righties in a row – just at a different point. I wouldn’t put a rookie in the clean-up spot at the beginning of a season, either. I don’t think Snider will hit ninth for too long. I know where you’re coming from, though.
- Jim BDavid Purcy had a great start to the season but that was an above average game for him. Last year he was inconsistent so i was wondering what you see him doing on a regular basis in the rotation.
MW: That was an above-average game for almost anyone – eight baserunners and two earned runs in seven innings. Last year was his first look at the big leagues, so I’d have been surprised if he had been more consistent, unless it was to be consistently bad. I think he’ll still be inconsistent this year, but hopefully not as much.
- JasonMike, just so you know, I am not unwell thank you.
Looks like this Snider kid can rake.
With regards to Purcey and the expectations of a young pitcher, what sorts of numbers would you catagorize as a “quality” season for him in terms of wins (I know that’s not even close to being entirely up to him), ERA, Innings pitched, Strike outs, etc.
Really enjoying the blerg!
MW: Thanks! A quality season for a guy in his first year in the bigs, by your standards, is 12-14 wins, an ERA around 4.00, 180 innings, 155 strikeouts. Actually, that’d be really good.
- Cammichael,
- darrell bishopscott rolen. in the field & at the plate.
give this guy good health & he might be our most important all around player. and i know that’s sayin’ something with guys like wells, rios & hill hanging around.
sure looked great in the first couple games.
he’s not old & not over the hill that’s for sure.
here’s hoping he gets a break this yr. with his health……..
Bobcat’s prediction was the afternoon of opening day – I think he was on too much cold medication but I like the enthusiasm.
I’m hoping for 80-85 wins, with a disproportionate share against Boston and the Yankees.
As long as the starting pitching continues to develop, 2010 is something to really look forward to.
Go Jesse Litsch tonight.
- Gary“If the Detroit Tigers have Lyle Overbay at first base, they win this game.”
That’s not true. If the Detroit Tigers have Lyle Overbay they don’t get that baserunner in the 7th… and Inge’s homer in the 9th doesn’t cost Ryan the save (and Lyon doesn’t get the chance to lose it in the 9th). Regardless who’s playing first, the Tigers lose this game unless Leyland comes to his senses and pulls Lyon for Rodney.
MW: They might get that baserunner in the 7th if Lyle is playing first. He’s capable of hitting a ground single to left. And I’m not sure that Rodney is much better an option than Lyon – I’d be scared to death to bring him in with runners on base in a tie game in the bottom of the 9th.
- MichaelMike,
What do you think of the manager’s decision in the bottom of the 9th to walk Overbay.I know it might of been the matchup since lyon is a righty but overbay does hit a lot of groundballs(3 in that game) and might hit into the double play. By walking him, you load the bases putting pressure on the pitcher to not only throw strikes but to try and induce a groundball. I also think Barajas has a swing that is more likely to result in a sac fly than overbay.
MW: See above.
- PaulLast season, we’d have lost that game.
Just 2 in, so nothing to build up dreams or despairs. But they were 2 good games and we won both. So I’ll take that.
MW: Ahhhh, ever the optimist.
- isabella reyesI was very nervous when I saw BJ closing last night. I got more nervous when I watched all his warm up pitches thrown at chest high. I don’t think BJ is ready for the closer position (if he ever will be again). He doesn’t have the stuff to intimidate the competition anymore even if he races to the mound with fire on the ribbon board. If he thinks he can still throw 3 strikes straight at a hitter and not get banged around, it’s time for him to part ways.
MW: He did it to Marcus Thames.
- Mike MississaugaM-Dub,
Anybody who doesnt know Overbay’s D is ridiculous, should be beaned in the face, with a chair, by Frank Francisco.
…I dont know if hes better than that guy on the Yankees though
…or that guy on the Rays.
MW: Such a horrible thing it would be if he’s not the best defensive first baseman in the game.
- slobberfaceWait, Lennox Lewis is Canadian?
I read somewhere that BJ’s velocity was down in ST because he was working on mechanics. Can you confirm this?
MW: Nope. He was working on mechanics because his velocity was down.
- Willie_CanateI think it’s great the Jays aren’t on Sunday Night Baseball. As a baseball fan, I have no problem with it at all; most of their games are televised anyway and it gives me a chance to see other teams play. The desire to be on ESPN just so America will “notice” us is pathetic.
- Robert WilliamsThe game was available on television but I assume you had to have digital cable to get it. Channel 204 carried the FSN feed from Detroit. Personally, I don’t mind seeing a few games from the perspective of some other announcers. It was cool to hear them talk about Purcey and Snider. I’d love to hear what out of market commentators would say when Brandon League comes in and throws 97mph with the movement he has or Halladay when he’s dialed in.
- Patrick90+ win prediction was on PTS before the home opener on Monday. But he also predicted a 50+ win for the Raptors this year.
- JeffMike
Enjoy the Jays talk on Fan590.com. It allows me to get good feed back and news.
I also like the scrums. I hope you will add some of those each time.
Also, are the Wednesdays with JP coming back this year?
Keep up the good work
MW: The scrums did sound kind of cool, but I don’t know how often we’ll be able to get them on. Wednesdays with JP will not be back.
- Richard from ARGreat blog, as always!
Its great to see the Jays playing again, and even better to hear Jays Talk. Your callers always crack me up.
1 question.
Do you think Halladay will finish this season as a Jay?
MW: Absolutely.
- AndrewHi Mike,
Like you, I am not really sold on all the Yankee hype this season. You’ve already commented a bit on their starting pitching, but what do you think about their offensive and defensive potential?
The way I see it is that basically, Teixeira replaces Abreu & Giambi as they already had Nady (who had replaced Matsui) from mid-point last year and Swisher is no longer a regular. Both Abreu (20 HR 100 RBI) and Giambi (25+ HR 90+ RBI) had very good years for them last year. Matsui & Posada are back but are also another year older. Plus Jeter & Damon are another year older as well. Teixeira is very good but he can’t carry the full load, can he?
Also, defensively this team looks good at the corners but poor up the middle and in the OF. The CF, Gardner, is unproven but the LF/RF/SS/2B/C positions all seem somewhat poor or mediocre defensively – this may hurt their vaunted starting pitching, no?
MW: It may indeed. The Yankees need to pitch really, really, really well to win, at least until Rodriguez comes back.
- JamieSo, one-in-a-million situation…
It’s the all-star break and the Jays have somehow put together 55-60 wins and are in the thick of the AL East race. The offence has never looked better (Rios, Wells, Hill, and Overbay are having one of the best seasons of their careers and Lind and Snider continue to improve).
The pitching, on the other hand, is beginning to tire after multiple exchanges with AAA-Las Vegas, and it’s becoming clear that the youngins can’t steer the ship through the second half. Also, McGowan is going to be rehabbing until the end of August.
If the Jays find themselves with an honest-to-God chance at scoring a playoff spot, do we begin to trade prospects or heavies like Rios or Hill for a #2 & #3 in the rotation?
MW: Prospects, maybe, but doubtfully. Definitely not a Hill or Rios.
- AndyHey Mike,
Second question of the day for me but what do you think of the idea the Jays pitch Halladay every fifth day to get him 36-37 starts as opposed to the usual 32-33 starts (as a result of giving him an extra day here and there due to off-days) in light of the less experienced rotation this year? Going strictly by percentages for an extra 4 starts by Doc, Jays will likely go 3-1 vs 1-3 for any the bottom end starters and with a potential for 4-0. I personally think they should start the season with this mindset and if/should the Jays be out by July/August, then give Doc the extra day here and there.
MW: I think you’ll see Halladay throw on his regular day more often than not.
- Joachim TsuiMike, with regards to comments about the game not being on TV. I agree with you, why not listen in on radio? Well because it wasn’t on a radio station I usually get and MLB.com wants to charge $14.95 (US)for “Gameday Audio”. In London,ON (where I’m from) the station carried the Leafs and in Toronto you guys carried the Raps and stations have contracts I get that. But then FAN590 should be allowed to put it online for free… only under those circumstances (although I would obviously like it free online all the time, as I’m sure would many Jays fans around the world). Problem was with the alternative station (they had a fringe station pick up the game near London too) was that it was not as clear/crisp as normal station, kept coming in and out etc. The FAN has a wide audience and it’s too bad some people missed out on a terrific game, especially following the excitement of the first. Just another thing blocking casual fans from becoming serious ones…aka something you think the Jays would be more concerned about as the serious fans are the ones who go to more than one game, buy merchandise etc. I know its early in the year, but following the excitement of opening day the Jays get a lot of press and hype and should ensure that at least the first week of games or even the first series is televised or at least on a major radio station like the FAN.
- JoshI know back in the day you only had Wednesday and Sunday. But you didn’t have all all the NHL, NBA, NFL, CFL, Tennis, Golf, NASCAR, MMA, Soccer, CIS, NCAA games/events etc. etc. all on TV. There’s a lot more competition out there and the Jays shouldn’t let themselves get lost in the fray.
Anyways, definitely looking forward to Leafs and Raps finishing off their lousy seasons and clearing the airwaves for Jerry, Alan, and yourself.
Hey Mike
I know it has only been 2 games – and for all we know this team could immediately rip off a 5 game losing streak – but there really does seem to be a different vibe around the team this year.
I can only think of a handful of games ALL of last year when a) the Jays looked as dominant offensively as they did on Monday and b) had a late game comeback like on Tuesday.
You know, even if this team ends up under .500, I think this is a team I could get really excited about. They’re exciting, whereas last years team was just so unbelievably frustrating
Do you detect a different atmosphere around the team?
MW: Not especially.
- James HA couple of things I have to call you on from the JaysTalk last night.
First off, you had them pegged to win 85% of the games Doc starts, which is way too optimistic. In Doc’s career, the Jays have won only 60% of the games he’s started. The last 4 years combined has seen him at 67%. His career high for one season is 74%. He’s good, but he’s not 85% good.(with this offense at least).
Secondly, you said something along the lines of “People in baseball, the ones really inside the game, know the Jays have a decent team.” I’m curious as to which people “inside” baseball you would be referring to, and how you define a “decent” team. If “decent” is anything more than projecting 77 wins or so, I’d take exception to that. There are a number of people who know the game extraordinarily well who are pegging these guys for 75 or below.
Another great win last night, and seeing Hill be the hero with that homer was spectacular. Off the bat it looked like an easy out to me but it just kept carrying. If it leads to a W, I’ll take those first 7 innings of blah any day.
MW: 1 – This is a good offense, and not because of the first two games. 2 – I don’t know anyone who works in baseball – not media, but front office, scouts, etc., who thinks the Jays have a terrible team.
- Dan WDear Mike:
- Richard FinkCould you as Cito why he doesn’t speak to Rios about his batting stance. You can’t do an athletic manoevre in a non athletic pose. Even John Walkenfus had an athletic stance before hitting the ball. Rios is slapping at the ball with his arms. Thanks
Bobcat predicted it Monday on the fan before the first pitch
- DanMike,
I can’t believe you met Lennox Lewis…now I’m really envious of you….That makes 2 of my favorite all-time athletes that you’ve met in the past year (Ken Griffey Jr is the other)….Does he reside in Kitchener now? If so, that’s pretty cool!!…Keep up the great work, the Jays are looking like a fun bunch to watch so far!!
MW: He doesn’t live in Kitchener, he’s in town visiting family. He told me he lives “on the planet Earth”, which is to say he has several houses all over the place.
- BernardRe: Post #1
Bobcat made that bold prediction on Monday afternoon’s PTS.
- BernardHello Mike, great win and gotta love thats baseball and the Jays are back!
Did you agree or diasgree with Cito’s decision to use Camp in the 8th? I personally disagree as the game was late and possibly close.
Also it wasn’t like all the top guns were burnt, Downs threw 1 pitch yesterday.
MW: You can’t use the big guns every night. I have no problem with using Camp/Frasor/Tallet when the Jays are down 3-0 in the 8th.
- CoreyExciting game! Being over an hour east of Toronto I had to scour the AM Band and drive down to Lake Ontario in order to get good enough reception from 820 in Hamilton but it was well worth the drive as I arrived just in time to hear Hill’s clutch 3-run blast.
I must admit that I was among the group of Overbay detractors last year. But I took an objective look at lineups with monstrous corner infielders like Pujols, A-Rod or Cabrera and changed my mind. They don’t have three outfielders who each have very legitimate shots at hitting 20-30 long balls this season. The Jays do. In addition, those Blue Jays outfielders play outstanding defense (the jury may be out on Snider but he has looked very good) and at least two out of three will flirt with the .300 mark by season’s end. The Yankees outfield doesn’t compare the the Jays’ in terms of overall depth and for that matter neither does the Tigers’, Cardinals’ or even the Mets’. Our corner guys will probably go undrafted in the majority of fantasy leagues but you can bet that the trio of Wells, Rios and Tradam Lider (Sorry) will all be sought after fantasy commodities by the All-Star break. Ryan Church, Colby Rasmus, Carlos Guillen and Brett Gardner are footnotes by comparison. If you can get your power from athletic, defensively competent outfielders then slugging corner guys are just a luxury. Now, bring on the jabs about Wells’ health.
Slightly off-topic here but I was just perusing the Yankees’ depth chart and aside from their impressive list of imposing and injury-prone starting pitchers it is simply atrocious. Do they have a bevy of hurlers and batsmen in the minors or is this team truly as bereft of talent as they appear? If they lose one or two key components to injury, and they’ve already lost one, they are in deep doo-doo. Gross.
MW: Phil Hughes and Ian Kennedy are a phone call away, but there aren’t too many other high-ceiling minor-leagues in the system who are ready for the bright lights right now.
- KPI think the big question is: why on earth did Leyland bring in Brandon Lyon in the 8th?..Is Joel Zumaya on the disabled list or something?..I figure with the smoke this kid has he’d be the setup guy..After Seay maybe bring in Rodney or something..I was even more shocked to see Lyon in the 9th..Not an impressive start for the new closer..
MW: Yes. Zumaya is on the disabled list.
- ray bMike….Did you see Jim Thome’s opening day homer? Mike, does he ever hit one that lands in the front row…Our family was invited to a Seder tonite and although my sister-in-law is a wonderful cook and host and my stomach usually decides my next move, there’s one major setback….She lives in Ottawa and the Eastbound 401 and myself are not close friends.
- chris m.Hey Mike
I am glad I went to the game last night. It was very exciting. I was a bit worried about Purcey though as he threw I believe 39 pitches in the first two innings, so thought he would only last 4, but then he became stingy. Good to see. Jackson played exceptionally well , wasn’t it only two seasons ago he wasn’t very good? Loved the chanting when Cito came out to argue the call at 2nd. I was sitting by the Jays bullpen, boy is Snider a big guy, has legs like tree trunks. Hopefully when I get home at 9 pm, we are winning game 3
Be Well
MW: Sorry about that.
- AnneVery true comment about Overbay, Mike.
Defense is the most underrated and misunderstood aspect of baseball when it comes to determining outcomes of not just games but entire team’s seasons. It’s what led me to make a bet with my friend that the Tigers win the central crown this year — they got rid of Edgar Renteria at short and replaced him with Everett, Inge at 3rd over an aging and less agile Carlos Guillen, and Gerald Laird (who I admit only know by reputation) at the plate. Combined with Granderson in Centre gives the Tigers tremendous defense up the middle which will help bring their starter’s ERAs down. With a still-potent offense I thought this team is good enough to win a wide open central.
MW: Fair enough.
- RonaldP.S. On monday’s podcast, Bobcat went into the light and “had a gut feeling” to predict 90-wins for thye Jays.
I hope you’re right with Jesus, the apocalypse is coming.
- RonaldHey mike
- JamesI watched the game on the Detroit station because for some reason Toronto stations were broadcasting nhl and NBA. On the Detroit station the broadcasters were talking about miguel cabrera as if he was the best defensive first baseman in the AL. Worth mentioning though was that this was before that mess up in the 8th
Do you think that an addition of veteran Kenny Rogers could have a mentor role with the lefties that the Jays have? Similar to how Jamie Moyer helped out Cole Hammels last year.
MW: No, I don’t. But I don’t think much of Kenny Rogers. And as great a guy as Moyer is, and he really is, Cole Hamels is really, really good.
- bootyMr. Wilner, here are 10 things that I have liked from what I’ve seen from the Jays in the first two games:
1. A game where they kept adding on to the runs they had.
2. Not giving up and coming back from a 3-0 deficit.
3. 4 homeruns in two games
4. Solid average with runners in scoring position.
5. BJ looks like his old self (minus one pitch)
6. Barajas threw a guy attempting to steal second.
7. Our DH is batting .500 with 1 HR, 6 RBI’s, and a very key walk.
8. Multiple 2 out rallies.
9. Everyone healthy.
10. Spectacular defence.
Although the Jays will not keep this up, they are a very exciting team to watch!
- LoganThe team looks great so far. The Rogers Center looks like crap. I hate to complain about something that most people don’t care about, but the ownership should have some pride in it’s facility and clean it up. The seats are filthy. I had to take a damp cloth and clean it myself. I sat in the first row in the outfield, section 102 because I like the leg room, and was shocked at how dirty and dusty the top of the outfield walls were. I work in construction and like to shower before going to the game but I think I will go straight to the game from work next time since the place is so dirty anyways. Is it so hard to hire a cleaning crew to dust the place. There’s no excuse since it was only the second game of the season. This may not be the forum to bring this up, but it’s somethiong I wanted to put out there and was curious if you had a comment. As for the product, the actual performance of the team, well, no complaints whatsoever. I still had a great time at the game yesterday and will be there on thursday to watch the Jays smack around Porcello.
MW: I’m glad you found something about which to complain.
- DomenickMike can you fast track Rogers setting up watching Jays games on Rogers Smartphones? (nokia n95-4, iphone etc.) Make it so!
MW: Nope.
- HunterI thought the home umpire was totally squeezing Purcey. What did you think?
MW: See above.
- Scott BOverbay is done. The fact that Cito didn’t pinch-hit for him was a fireable offense.
MW: Sigh.
- Renegadecomment 61
- slobberfaceYou said it, not me!
Billingsley tonite!
If only the Jays had Miguel Cabrera playing first base instead of Lyle Overbay, they would have won Wednesday night’s game . . .
MW: Darn tootin’.
- Ken PaganAll three lefties looked out of sorts today. Snider had two horrible ABs but I am sure it is not that big a deal. I think it’s time to bring in Johnny Mac, we terribly need his defence. So here’s my line-up
1. Overbay
2. Hill
3. Rios
4. Wells
5. Lind
6. Rolen
7. Snider
8. Captain
9. Mac
I know leading off with Overbay sounds a bit crazy but there’s nowhere else to put him. Who else do you think are leading off candidates on regular basis?
MW: I don’t have a problem with that line-up at all,but I don’t think the Jays have shown that they’re desperate for McDonald’s defense.
- BeburgMike,
You’d never see me complain before the 20 game mark. That’s how I guage a team. 20 game is enough to predict the season for a certain team. All regulars are gonna have 70+ABs by then, pitchers are gonna have 4 starts each and the relievers are gonna have plenty of innings gobbled up between them. And 20 games is enough for a manager to see if his system is working or not. So yeah, i am gonna wait until the end of April to see what direction this team and each individual player is going towards and then predict the wins/losses. It’s too darn early to be happy or disappointed. Fans need to wait.
MW: It’s never too early to be happy or disappointed, but it’s definitely too early to write a season off or declare a team champion. Twenty games is too soon, too. Billy Beane says that the first two months of the season are to see what you have, the next two months are to fix it and the last two months are to win.
- Beburghi mike! I’m looking forward to this season. I think that this years team will make strives in the right direction. We as fans have to be patient and relax. The rebuilding process of the jays is looking very good. Jumping on & off the band wagon are for the want to be fans. The true fans will give their support by helping to push that wagon by showing up at the park or by tuning in on tv. Take care! T.
MW: And by listening to the radio!!!!!!!!!!!!
- Ted BeamishMr Wilner -
It’s clear, up to this point at least, B.J. Ryan doesn’t have the same velocity on his fast ball that he once possessed before his arm injury. However, it was his devastating slider that made him so effective, particularly against right handed hitters. This is his bread and butter pitch, and the one that I believe is missing from his repetoire. Your comment please.
Rick
MW: I saw a few very good sliders on Tuesday night.
- rick speyerMW: Jerry was absolutely correct. Three of the Jays’ runs in the 8th inning were unearned. The runs that Lyon gave up were earned, but only against him
Those runs show up on the box score as earned and they show on Lyon’s record as earned. The “Official Scorer’s Handbook” indicates that they should be recorded as “earned runs. I’m not sure where they show-up as “unearned”. Major league baseball will ultimately show them as “unearned” when it comes to team totals, but for purposes of scoring the game and a pitcher’s ERA they are “earned runs”.
As for Scutaro as the lead-off guy, it’s worth remembering that Cito used Devo as his lead-off man which made no sense to most people, including Pat Gillick (who wasn’t gonna interfere as long as the winning continued, which it did). Gillick never did become much of a fan of Cito’s in game management, but he was wise enough to bite his tongue and let Cito work his magic. The thing that I could never fathom was every time Devo would lead off a game or an inning with a double, he would have Alomar bunting him over to third. What a waste of a great hitter’s at bat.
MW: For the purposes of scoring the game, the runs are unearned. For the purposes of scoring Brandon Lyon’s outing, they’re earned. And for the record, in 1992 and ’93 combined, Alomar had 10 sacrifice bunts. Granted, that’s 10 too many, but it was hardly “every time”.
- KenWhy is everyone so obsessed with Bob McCown’s predictions? IF he thought the Raptors would win 50 how much stock should anyone put in the 90 predicted for the Jays?
Anyway, very happy with the season thus far. I hope we’ll be pleasantly surprised by Lind, Snider, Purcey, Romero, and see Cecil later this season.
- ColinHi Mike!
I’m disappointed to learn that Wednesday’s with JP won’t be back this season. I very much looked forward to the post-game show each Wednesday to hear from JP himself.
I commend him for taking our calls over the past few seasons — I think it was awesome Radio for a hardcore Jays fan.
How come it’s been discontinued? Just curious.
MW: I thought it was awesome radio, too, and I was also looking forward to it. The decision to end “Wednesdays with JP” came from Ricciardi himself.
- CamWhy no more “Wednesdays with J.P”? He’s quite popular with the fans, you know.
MW: J.P. doesn’t want to do it anymore.
- JordieMike, it appears the Jays will once again struggle around the .500 mark. They had a chance to show better promise in game 3 but Vernon The Ripoff Wells promptly hit into a killer, inning ending, rally ending DP after
Rios’ customary base running brain cramp trying to test the outfielder’s arm to home plate. I say typical, Mike.
MW: That wasn’t a brain cramp by Rios, it was a good gamble that didn’t pay off.
- Vito From HamiltonRomero…is pretty impressive thus far. He knows how to pitch, has a good arm, and really should have earned a better fate thus far.
- General ZodIt didn’t pay off because maybe in hindsight it wasn’t such a good gamble, Mike. Honey, I just blew the rent and grocery money at the horse races tonight, but it was a good gamble. Honest. LOL. Just kidding, Mike!
MW: Vito, this isn’t going to happen again this year. I’m not going to ride the roller coaster with you.
- Vito From HamiltonWho’s my favorite Blue Jay, Mike? Aaron Hill by far!
MW: Here we go!
- Vito From HamiltonThe roller coaster, is that what you call it? More like bumper cars, Mike. I’m the kid that couldn’t drive and had to have the attendant hanging off the pole on the back steering me along. It’s all in good fun, Mike. Don’t sweat it, man.
MW: It’s not fun if only one person is enjoying it.
- Vito From HamiltonThank you. Very gracious of you, Mike. What a play by Bautista. Big.
- Vito From HamiltonMike….In your travels, have you ever had the opportunity to meet and/or chat with former Rock player Jim “Scoop” Veltman?..The reason I ask is that I’ve met him 3-4 times and he’s like you Mike in that he’s always promoting the game in which he’s involved and seems to be a “glass half-full guy” like yourself and seeks out the positive. Just curious if you two fine gentlemen have crossed paths.
MW: I never have.
- chris m.Frankly, I’m not surprised that JP decided not to do Wednesday nights this season. When the questions were good, it was outstanding radio. However he would often sit there and take dumb cheap shots or be asked to comment on potential trades, draft-picks, etc., that he could not answer for obvious reasons. I suppose that it might have helped out if some rules had been established to prevent the questions that could have lead to tampering allegations. However, even someone as thick-skinned as JP still has feelings even if he puts on a brave face. I may not agree with all the moves he has made (or non-lies he’s said!), but he has my respect for the many times he sat there and talked with the fans, often very candidly.
When the callers were good, it was some of the best radio I’ve ever listened too.
MW: I really enjoyed it, too.
- AlanMike, it appears I might have underestimated this team. Judging by the recent and thrilling evidence, this team is easily capable of obliterating the .500 mark. A healthy Aaron Hill is the missing piece now in place.
- Vito From Hamilton“MW: That wasn’t a brain cramp by Rios, it was a good gamble that didn’t pay off.”
I was in the crowd for the game and thought that most certainly was not a good gamble. It was very shallow and with the bases loaded, there’s no sense in being aggressive and playing for the one run. I’d much rather him not take a risk on such a shallow ball and give the chance to the hitter to cash a couple with a single, or perhaps even clear the bases with a gapper. I wonder if the decision to go was his or Leyva’s.
MW: I was in the crowd too, kind of, and I thought it was a very good gamble. Josh Anderson had looked terrible the night before making a throw home from much shallower left field, and Rios is the fastest guy on the team. The odds of Lyle Overbay getting the hit to drive in the run were lower than the odds of Rios scoring on that fly ball.
- Ari“The odds of Lyle Overbay getting the hit to drive in the run were lower than the odds of Rios scoring on that fly ball.”
I’m sorry but I just can’t agree. He was dead-meat at the plate and it wasn’t even close. The ball barely cleared the “infield” that is designated with the white painted lines at the Dome. The odds of Rios scoring on that play were nowhere near Lyle’s 36% chance of getting on base, and thus driving in that same run (and 28% to cash in more).
Agree to disagree, but I went to the game with 3 other avid baseball fans and we were all stunned that he went.
MW: Given the throw that Josh Anderson had made the night before, I still think it was the right move. Agree to disagree.
- Ari