by
Greek Giant
The Giants made cuts to their roster this weekend with Clayton Blackburn, Joan Gregorio and Chris Stratton being assigned to Triple-A Sacramento. Sam Coonrod, Matt Reynolds and Kyle Blanks were sent to Minor League Camp, presumably with fresh lunches and a juice box.
Buster Posey hit a majestic home run in Miami as Team USA edged Team Canada 8-0 to advanced to the second round of the tournament. Brandon Crawford had an excellent weekend as well for the Americans. The Giants represented very well.
Interestingly, the Giants did not cut Kyle Crick or Tyler Beede. Bochy is giving these two young hard-throwing right-handed starters an especially long look. Beede is my pick for dark horse addition to the rotation this season. There is a nice article by Hank Schulman on why the Giants still believe in Kyle Crick, the former first round draft pick.
Reyes Moronta, a 24 year-old righty reliever made his Cactus League debut on Saturday and pitched effectively. The big youngster may advance quickly through the ranks with his explosive fastball, according to Giants sources…
Today, our boys play the Rangers at 6:05 PM in Surprise, Arizona.
Thats the buster that i remember SMASHING THE DAMN BALL that was put on a T for him, head down and trotting around the bases!
Fond memories of Latos! 🙂
It was the swing that made him special.
My devious evil twin wonders if you keep Crick in camp
a) ala Gary Brown’s September call up, to show him its time to roll? Or,
b) by keeping him, try to make another club think he might be worth trading an OF for?
You would make a good GM.
Hire Footy!
As…?
Sensitivity Trainer
Giants Team Social Media Handle Creator
I was thinking WitSec alias creation
Head GroundsKeeper. (Needs to bring his own weed eater.)
…or perhaps succulent wrangler, or fence mender. A man of many talents.
An important difference between Crick and Brown is that Crick was only 18 when he was drafted, so they can be patient. He’s still just 24. Brown was a college player, so you can determine “bust” more quickly.
I was looking through each teams top prospects, and amazing how many of them are in the 18-21/22 range.
Then you get to the Giants, with Arroyo still being young. But to me Arroyo is pretty close to ready.
That’s why I think it’s rediculous when some folks on the blog keep waiting for “kids” who are 26/27/28 to “find” it.
Sure it nay happen but the odds are very slim.
Well, the age range thing correlates to drafting strategies, right? The Giants tend to pick college players in the early rounds, with Crick, Arroyo, and Ryder Jones being the most recent exceptions.
It’s a “safer” bet–the high schoolers are the riskier, higher-upside picks, while the college players may have lower ceilings but can help you sooner, supposedly–plus you know what you’re getting. (I’m not talking about top-5 picks like Bryant or Posey, of course, but the Giants haven’t had a top-10 pick in almost 10 years.)
The price of success means you don’t draft in the top 5 or 10 rounds. I will take that trade off any day. Your points are very important. People forget that winning titles means you draft last.
The Giants have had one losing season since 2008–2013–and they did that “wrong.” Without a hot last 5-6 weeks, they would have ended up in the bottom ten. As it was, they drafted #14, and that’s when they got Beede.
Saw some comments during the game about Kelby getting hosed by having minor league options (similar to Mac’s battle with Parker).
Important difference: Mac and Parker are both on the 40-man roster. If Parker doesn’t make the team, they could lose him on waivers, whereas they can just option Mac to AAA.
Kelby, though, is the ONLY guy competing for an infield bench job (besides Gillaspie, and that’s a different bench spot) who is now on the 40. To send KT to AAA and give his spot to Rollins, Hill, or Hwang, the Giants would have to cut someone else off the 40-man roster.
So by the “preserve inventory” argument, KT would seem to have the edge. The Giants can make one easy 40-man move (Ian Gardeck to the 60-day DL), but if they might add a nonroster outfielder, infielder, or bullpen guy, they’ll have to make some hard choices.
Plus there’s the fact that KT is playing very well in the Cactus League and deserves the spot. There was a great play yesterday where a Snake hit a single to right, made an aggressive turn around first, and fell down. The RF, Calixte, threw behind him to 1B, and the guy was in a rundown. Back and forth throws, and then Kelby (who was playing SS) had the ball, and instead of throwing to first, he turned the jets and just ran the guy down and tagged him out. Now THAT is a literal rundown!
Was his cape showing?
SuperKelby!™
KT and Gillaspie are on my February 25th 25-man roster prediction and I’m sticking to it.
Talk some more about Parker. What did he hit, high/low in the zone…
Gosh, I think he hit pitches everywhere–he had three hits yesterday. Hard to say when sitting in the stands with no replay, though. Anyway, he looked good yesterday.
It is hard to tell in person…energy but no data, LOL.
Glad you got to that last sentence. If h doesn’t have the edge due to speed and the fact that Hill and Rollins can’t hit much, then there’s a lot weird going on. It sure would be nice to see Hwang as a threat, but he only makes the team as a starter, true?
Hill’s been hitting OK. Saw him hit two doubles here on Saturday. Last season he hit .260 with 10 HRs, playing part-time. He still has value as a bench player, I’d guess. Rollins, I just don’t see, based on his last few years and his age.
Hwang will probably go to AAA, but he’s intriguing–one of the most interesting players I watched this weekend. Slater and Duggar–neither of whom has been cut yet–also looked promising.
If no one mentioned it already, Happy Birthday to “The Thrill”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tBJUTm9ez0g
That, if one swing tells you much, is the Posey swing of old.
I hope Buster plays a little more first base, or has more true off days this year. He loses that beautiful stroke at the end of the season, recently. Giants seem stronger at backup C this year, so maybe they can keep those legs strong.
I’ve heard they’ll try and hold him to between 100-110 games. But that may be pure speculation, and not a real plan.
If I read it right, the Giants are on MLBTV tonight, but it’s the Rangers broadcast.
Yep, that’s right. IIRC, they have pretty whacko local “visitors” to the booth during the spring training broadcast, like the guy who owns a chain of DQs in Texas, or Captain Morgan (the rum mascot, in full uniform). Can hardly wait!
I’ve been reading Scott Adams, of Dilbert fame, and one of his quotes paraphrased is “winners have a system, losers have goals”. In short what he means is following a systematic approach to what you do will either work, uncover new possibilities or you will learn from it.
I was thinking about this in terms of Bochy and his staff. In 2010 he had a bunch of retreads (Band of Misfits) and a great pitching staff. What does he do, he sits down and moves out of the organization a very popular catcher and turns it over to an unproven rookie. The rest is history. In 2012 he has a starter who has not proven himself in 5 seasons as a Giant, had a spring ERA of just under 8, and keeps Zito in Arizona to work out some kinks after the season starts. Luck or system Zito wins a lot of important games that year. Will Cain be this years Zito I don’t know. But knowing the Giants system Cain will be on a very short leash if he does get the 5 spot.
In the outfield the Giants have failed miserably to home grow any starter. And it seems relying on retreads is not the answer for more then a year or two. Trading for top talent is expensive and getting more so all the time. They first drafted Gary the bust Brown. But it did not seem to be a system approach just finding someone the scouts liked. If you look at the farm system now there are 4 or 5 outfielders who are making their way through the system. They not counting on one great prospect. Duggar, MyGuy according to Haak last year, looks like a solid starter for the future along with Williams. But as always time will tell and we have to see if the Giants will learn from their current experiments.
Hi, glad to see you.
Parker is perhaps showing he can be a big league hitter in this camp – I am pleasantly surprised. (and worried about Span).
Lots of people here seem to have leaped to the conclusion that Rollins will be chosen over Tomlinson, or Morse over Williamson, or Cain over Blach. But we don’t actually know this! The 5th starter decision at the end of the month might be pretty easy if Matt doesn’t throw any better in his next two starts.
Parker is the key issue to me. IF he has truly crossed a threshold and can sustain his hitting, being left handed, I think he has an advantage. But he’s got to do away with that platoon split, to really become a force.
If Parker can become a regular player, it really helps a shaky OF. As ClutchUp likes to remind us, it can suddenly click a little while after reaching the bigs. I was pretty sure Parker wouldn’t make the leap, but am happy to admit I might be wrong.
Besides the platoon thing with Parker, if he’s the starting LF, it makes the Giants lefty-heavy to a worrying degree: Span, Panik, Belt, Crawford, Parker. That’s five out of eight starters. Most of the Dodgers’ rotation is lefthanded, so either the Giants will be at a huge disadvantage in those 19 games or playing bench guys all the time.
Good point, but rather than just assume, I wonder what their actual L/R splits actually are. I haven’t looked, have you?
My recollection is that Belt has always hit lefties well (except for You-Know-Who) and so has Panik. Crawford has had some good reverse splits in various seasons. Span was getting platooned vs. lefties by September last season, and Parker’s L/R splits are not very good, but it’s a small sample size.
I’ll probably lose my lazy gene later today and look, but I think, as you say, the impact is less than it might be from simple L/R combinations. Besides some of the RHB options actually hit LHP less than the LHB guys with splits that are unbalanced.
I’m already hearing “they’ll be facing a lot of RH pitching” over the airwaves, but you are 100% accurate regarding the Dodgers.
Yeah, April goes Snakes-Pads-Snakes-Rox-KC-Rox-Dodgers-Pads. Other than the Dodgers for three and maybe Danny Duffy on KC, not a lot of big-name lefties on the docket. I honestly can’t name one guy in the Padres’ rotation right now, and the Snakes have Greinke-Miller to start, both RHPs.
Also looking at the schedule, I see three off-days in April. Not a reason to carry 13 pitchers, I’d say.
Thanks,
I hate to jinx myself but I don’t see a way where they keep Rollins. If they did not have Gillaspie, Hill would be a more interesting pick. I think Rollins will help out some team this year. But the Giants have too many options for the infield to keep him. As for Morse maybe, but I see him as a DH candidate. It is making the ST interesting and for some anxious. If they don’t keep Hill I hope he finds work in the AL he wears out the Giants.
I think they’ll keep Hill over Rollins. That said, you never know with the decision makers :-/
On a team that needs a lot of offense, keeping either one of those seems like an odd idea. Just having them in camp is worrisome since it means they might.
I would say Kelby for sure, but Hill is at least hitting .286 and has a history of being a pain in the a$$ against the Giants. Rollins is only batting .158
Hill is sub 90 OPS+ 3 years running. If that isn’t enough to pass on for a guy who doesn’t have other attributes, I dont know what is.
I expect the 10 day DL to come into play to protect some 40 man roster spots, perhaps a few minor pulls or strains.
I would be shocked and disappointed if Rollins won a job. I’m OK with Morse, because Williamson would be sitting (parker starting) and he needs the reps. The Cain decision is so obvious…and perhaps they’ll DL him with back thing. They were saying on the radio yesterday that the D-Backs announcer (former MLB pitcher) was singing Blach’s praises and said “he’s a big league starter”.
I’m glad you came back for more baseball talk. I’m not sure Bochy deserves the credit for the Molina/Posey move in 2010. I always assumed Sabean did that to force the issue, knowing that Bochy would never offend Molina by moving him to backup catcher. But perhaps they made that decision together.
Thanks,
I’m not privy to inside conversations for this organization but it’s clear Sabean was in charge. But for Sabean to move Molina without Bochy’s consent would be an indication of a dysfunctional organization. I probably should have included Sabean, into the line with Bochy and his staff. It’s clear Bochy prefers vets but he has moved in untested rookies before and not always because he was out of options. I think the farm system management has a lot to say if someone is to be given a bigger role in the bigs. I site the example of Duffy skipping AAA.
There was never any doubt from Sabean, Bochy or anybody else.that Buster would be our catcher.Many say that his AAA numbers in 2010 prove that he was ready earlier than he was. But the counter argument is that he came up at the right time, as his numbers here proved that. I believe that the plan to trade Molina was decided before hand. Bottom line is that however one wants to parse it- it couldn’t have worked any better than it did.
Well, I sure thought they should have moved faster than they did. I was making noise about Molina like everybody is making noise about Cain now. It took WAAAAY too long to make the move.
That’s what many say.
100%
Sabean: So Bruce, what do you think about me trading Benjie and getting Buster up here as a starter?
Bochy: Well Brian, Benjie is a great veteran and…
Sabean: That wasn’t really a question Bruce.
Bochy: Great idea Brian!
good to see you back, champ
Filling out my March Madness bracket is what I’ve spent most of my time doing at work so far this morning, oops. I won my office pool last year (I chose Villanova to win it all) so I’ll have to defend my title as the reigning champion.
I know there are some here that don’t like Grayson Allen (not defending him), but I was thinking it would be Villanova or Duke…then the committee goes and places them in the same bracket. Geez.
I’m very impressed with Villanova. They have that SF Giants “thing” in the playoffs going for them *and* no closer needed! Duke has been sputtering with drama, injuries, and under-performing all year…but they sure played well in the ACC Tournament…which isn’t an easy thing to do with 4 games in 4 days. I like Arizona too.
Villanova repeating in this day and age…with so many “one and done” players…would be a remarkable accomplishment.
It’s a hard choice between Arizona and Villanova. Although now I’m questioning between Gonzaga and Arizona and if I choose Gonzaga, then I’d go with Villanova over the Zags.
Really liking the way my Dookies are playing right now. They’re finally healthy, and while they only go seven deep there’s a lot of talent there.
Where is UC Davis positioned. This is their first trip to the tournament, I think.
Play-in game in the Midwest Regional
Cinderella bracket?
Them shoes…so to speak.
I did some research on the weekend, about cutting down to the 25-man (the real one, not Haak’s cool game). My Google skills aren’t perfect. I guess we had the 2017 mid-month cuts over the weekend, with surprisingly few players reassigned. The hard choices come just as they break camp, and in fact, the final choice for one or two positions may come only after the Bay Series.
2015: 62 players in camp, meaning 22 non-roster. The latter were 12 P, 3 C, 5 IF, 2 CF (I could not find a list of the 40-man). The final cuts came on day 3-28, and included Susac, Strickland, and Perez.
2016: 61 players in camp, comprising 32 P, 7C, 13 IF, 9 OF (this breakdown includes the 40-man). 19 players were cut on 3-13, and 9 more on 3-26. The latter group included Mac, Parker, Broadway, Gorkys, Conor. None of the non-roster invitees made the team.
2017: 68 players in camp. The non-roster group broke down 11 P, 4 C, 8 IF, 5 OF. Sorry, I just couldn’t find grand totals except for 2016. The final Cactus League game is 3-27 this year, with the Bay Bridge on the 30th and 31st.
So we have roughly two more weeks to blether away about this, whereas the coaches and management of course haven’t really decided yet. Note that the names sent to AAA in the final round of cuts are extremely likely to be back later in the same season, anyway.
Something cool came up from this digging. There is something called the Barney Nugent award, named for a team trainer who died in 2014. They’ve made this award for 30 years, but now it has a name. You have to be “the best player in his first big-league camp”. Matt Duffy got this in 2015 (without making the 25 man until a few weeks into the season). Trevor Brown got it last year. Will the 2017 winner be Hwang? Marrero ineligible, since apparently it has to be one’s first MLB camp.
One correction–Duffman made the 25-man roster out of camp in 2015, and they waived Adrianza (he cleared waivers). Duffy didn’t become a starter until mid-May, though. The interesting thing about him was that he’d already played in the World Series for the Giants before ever attending a big league camp.
Hwang is a good pick–3 HRs already. Keep an eye out for Moronta, since he hasn’t been cut–if he gets more opportunities, he could be in the running.
They should maybe widen the scope of the Nugent award to include any non-roster invitee – Hwang seems almost a lock, otherwise. Dang, I really thought Duffy didn’t make the team until after some McGDP’s, but you are of course correct on that.
End of the month is certainly the time to try to sneak a guy through waivers as every team has that 41st guy they want to keep, too.
WBC Ejections – World Baseball Classic HP Umpire Tripp Gibson ejected Team Columbia 1B Reynaldo Rodriguez, CF Tito Polo, and Bench Coach Edgar Renteria for arguing an out call/HP Collision violation no-call in the bottom of the 9th inning of the Dominican Republic-Columbia game.
http://www.closecallsports.com/2017/03/wbc-ejections-tripp-gibson-team.html
My first spring training game on Friday was very cool. The game had a totally different vibe than during the season. Met Dr. Lefty and had a brief chat. Sadly, we weren`t able to connect for more baseball talk. A couple of observations: KT can hit. I can`t see leaving him off the big league club, regardless of options or what not. Mad Bum was throwing nice and easy. Mostly fastballs. I liked how fast Melancon worked. Hwang went down and got a nice hit on a tough pitch to drive in a run. Parker ripped a shot to center, but caught. He looked good at the plate. Belt hit a monster shot to right. D Law was missing the plate, but, the ball was moving. Morse has a loooong swing, his glove work looked a little stiff while playing first, but he has fun, like a kid playing ball. Mac Williamson was really letting the ball get deep…went to right on a nice single to drive in a run. Great seats, right behind the Giants dugout on the first base line. Overall, a great day at the ball yard. Tomorrow up to Peoria to meet with Seattle Mariners minor leaguers. Livin` large.
good observations, capt’n..thanks..
It’s Cap’n, pronounced Capen.
JK
Boat people are always goofin’ with things like this.
Tebow gets a hit.
http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2017/03/13/tim-tebow-gets-1st-hit-for-mets-singles-vs-marlins/99133222/
To all of the 25 man experts (which I am not) is it feasible to have KT and Hwang and 5 OFs on the team? KT needs to make the team, but I would like to see Hwang on it as well. Or does is simply come down to KT or Hwang?
No , Connor is making the team, + Hundley so , that would be 6 Bench players + 12 Pitchers, and 8 every day starters so 26 .
If Bruce Bochy can be cured of his predilection for 13 pitchers, the standard choice of 12P + 5OF + 6IF + 2C leaves two reserve infielder spots. But it might very well be KT and Gillaspie.
you don’t think they’ll keep three catchers to start the year? Posey-Brown-Hundley?
Nope .
Hundley hasn’t done anything, IMO, to increase his value…. at least that I’ve seen.
Like PJ says … three of us made room for KT and Hwang but cut CG to do that.
You were 1 of the 3
No; “us” was of all the My25ManGuy™ entrees. I kept Conor; Hwang will be at Sac.
I can not believe anybody would cut CG, but I know some members of this blog are all about defense , and CG is no golden glove fielder, so it does not shock me on this blog, but in the real world that is crazy .
I don’t think anyone here sees ‘CG’ moving on.
HaakAway just posted 3 people cut him off the 25 man roster .
LOL. Given the experts here, just go with it.
Or they read of his injury and thought he would not heal by Opening Day. But he played yesterday so maybe he is healthy.
I guess so he hit the game winning HR, and he had nagging little injuries , nothing serious
Some of the people here wanted the team to cut Gillaspie a season ago. A lot of dissing on old Conor, I remember. Aaah….what a home run in the POs will do to change people’s minds.
For me, the problem with Gillaspea was his godawful defense at 3B historically. To my utter astonishment, someone taught him how to play 3B.
They did. And quite a feat it was, too.
I can see that argument, but I remember hearing from Kruk, Wotus and Gillaspie himself that CG worked a lot on his fielding and it looked like it paid off–especially when Nunez went down at the end of last season.
I had thought about Parker before posting that comment. He has skills to bring to the table, but too many vulnerabilities at the plate. I would strongly consider cutting him, as painful as that may be, to allow for a more flexible and better offense. This way it’s Mac gig without question, so there’s still power, but now IMO a better bench. Parker is 28, I do not see him all of a sudden becoming a starting OF.
Blaming a player because he is too old, the Giants have a history of not giving prospects much of a chance, so they get old in the Minors, Duvall a good example of this .
Duvall was 26 at the time I think and had not been giving the opportunity that Parker has already been given. I’m not saying Parker has no chance, and he has solid tools, but I think he’ll get (further) exposed against LHP. His roster spot is very valuable and the Giants have a younger OF with about as much power who is more promising.
Actually Parker has a way batter OB% then Mac, and the K rates are similar .
Hwang doesn’t play SS. They need someone who can back up both middle infield spots. He’s competing with Gillaspie, if anyone. KT is competing with Rollins and Hill.
Got it. Thanks. So it’s Hwang v. Conor. It’s really too bad that KT can’t play CF because then all three of them could be kept. Although I suppose that would mean Crawford could never sit if KT is in CF.
I bet KT COULD play CF.
I do too. He just needs a bunch of reps out there to be comfortable. I’m more worried about his arm than his glove or feet.
I don’t care much for Hernandez as I see his career MLB and current ST numbers leave a lot to be desired. He is, however, a legit CF so that will likely mean he’s a sure thing to be on the roster.
I was also thinking same thing about KT. Too bad he didn’t get a jump start at playing all OF positions earlier last season.
Unfortunately “KT is competing with Rollins and Hill.” He shouldn’t have to be and it looks more and more he should be the clear backup to the SS (and 2B) position with how he’s played in ST.
I’d love it if MyGuy Hwang was added to the 25 man roster too, but it looks like he gets the short end of the stick and will start in AAA to begin the season.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCUT932WytY
Barring a trade, If Hwang makes it they will almost surely have to keep 3 reserve infielders because otherwise they would not have anybody to play the middle infielder spots,
Parker- some are going a tad overboard on him- as they say, the ‘rubber will hit the road” when he faces a steady dose of major league quality pictures. The same holds true for the other guys who are in same boat.
Mac- as we know, he has an option left so he mostly likely begin the year in Sacto. But I think they should keep him and Parker. They would both get plenty of playing time.
Osich- depends on two things- Smith’s health and how the next 3 weeks go- he does still have a decent chance to make the 25-man.
Moronta- bound for Sacramento to begin the season
Beede and Stratton- If Cain isn’t on the team, one might get the swing man spot. Both still have an outside shot at the 5th spot in the rotation. If Cain and Blach are both on the staff, Beede and Stratton are outta here. My guess is that Beede goes to AAA, Blach is the 5- and Stratton and Suarez compete for the swing man role.
Gearrin- in tough
Kontos- sorry guys, but he’s a lock and rightfully so.
Okert- most likely he’s in, but the next 3 weeks could change that. As of now he definitely has the edge over Osich but they could both make it.
Kelby- If he isn’t a lock, there is no justice in the USA. But he’s probably competing with Hill and Rollins for a spot.
Hill and Rollins- see KT
Morse- beastly of late- giving him a chance if they either keep 3 Infielders or 5 OFers.
Ruggie- still in the running but needs to pick it up. He does haveone edge over Morse- he’s adequate in the field.
Marrero- same as with Morse, Hwang, and Ruggiano – I think that they are competing for one job. Or no job. If I were to guess, it would be Morse. Everybody loves the big guy, especially Bochy .
That was my rundown of the guys looking to land a spot on the 25-man. Just from one schmuck to the other schmucks.
With Span’s history of health issues that impact his legs, don’t you suspect an extra OF with CF credentials is a necessity. A CF without wheels is a paper weight.
Parker can play a respectable CF, and they have Belt as an extra OFer, and maybe KT. And if they keep 5 OFers, they can only keep 2 reserve infielders. They have more flexibility if they go with 4 outfielders. But this a very fluid situation with a ton of guys going for a just a few .spots
Q: what are you basing that Parker can play a decent CF.
Just a hunch? Have you seen him play CF or seen stats that back this up?
He played 3 games last year in CF with the Giants, and never had an issue , and most of his Minor league career was in CF, he is faster then you think, long stride
He’s played just a few games in CF up here, but he’s played over a hundred in the minors. I’ve have had minor league TV so I have seen him for several games down there. But if Span was out for an extended time, I think that they’d look for a better alternative .
Something has to give fore sure, but I think the OF exposure exceeds that of the infield. I think Tomlinson’s ability to play OF may be the thumb on the scales. In any case they may keep 5 OF for a month, maybe two early and then shift the infield flexibility later when fatigue actually makes a difference.
They tried KT in the Outfield and it did not go well, maybe he has bad eyes, and has a hard time getting reads on balls or when runs ball gets blurry, I had that problem, fastest runner in high school , but 20-2000 vision .
He’s the ‘dutch boy’ not the dam builder. He’s at least as good as some of the other options.
That’s not true. “They tried KT in the Outfield and it did not go well,…” is false.
Thanks. I didn’t see him myself.
Kelby begs to differ, and video evidence does not lie!
http://m.mlb.com/video/topic/29387502/v737615383
I do not remember KT in the OF this spring (qualifying that by characterising my memory as Swiss Cheese, of course). Nor Belt? But I’ve seen Calixte sent out there a few times.
Nope. Bochy’s mentioned it, for both Hill and Kelby. They had Beckham in LF a week or two ago, though!
I haven’t seen a throw like that from LF since Melky left. That’s a CF’s arm.
I could see Belt in LF when Buster plays 1st and Hundley catches.
Stratton has already been sent to Minor league camp, .
That doesn’t rule him out.
Hill KT and Gorky’s, joining Gillespie Hundley on the bench.
If Gorky’s is optioned, then it should be Mac and Parker can be the backup CF.
Just don’t see how they can keep Morse around as nothing but a PH.
Cain will be the 5 as ugly as that is, but they will keep Blach as the long guy to put out his fires…Very Short Leash for Cain. And if both of them get whacked, think Beede will be first up.
If Smith is DL’d, they can keep both Osich and Okert, otherwise one or the other to join Law Strick Melon Kontos.
Morse goes to the AL, Marrero Hwang and Mac will be ready in AAA and Rollins goes fishing.
Very possible that you are right but that makes me wrong, and we can’t have that.
Good stuff, Sir Michael.
My sense is that they brought every high-energy, good clubhouse guy they could find into spring training: Phil Nevin. Agui. Cody Ross (who was coaching first on Saturday). Beckham. And yes, Morse.
I bet Bochy and Bobby would LOVE to find a spot for Morse. And after seeing what he did to a couple baseballs on Saturday, well…
I’d read Morse was in very good shape, and he looks it–lean and fit. He also played 1B more or less fine when I saw him there this weekend.
Not when I saw him. He looked like unless the ball was right to his glove it was gonna be an adventure. In the dirt? 50/50.
But if they kept Morse, Gorky’s or one of Hill KT must go. And if KT is the b-up SS, it’s Gorky’s or Hill. I can’t see it.
Gorkys has to stay. I’d say KT stays and Hill goes if they keep Morse.
Gotta have youth to withstand the rigors of a long season. Keeping Morse seems overly sentimental. Keeping Rollins when you have KT just seems foolish. Nunez is going to play 3rd most of the time, so you keep Conor for pinch-hitting and a start or two a week I still want them to keep both Parker and Mac — they’ve earned it. Get them regular at-bats for the first two months, they’ll stick, and they’ll provide some power. Pence will need regular rest, and I really hope his body can hold up. Span may play himself into a platoon or worse if he doesn’t start producing once the season starts. What can you do with Cain? He’s not getting through his first inning of work. Can you start him in the minors? Keep three catchers to start? Posey will sometimes play 1B and then you will need your third catcher from time to time, for flexibility late in games. Finally, is Marrero for real?
Marrero was a 1st round pick and has hit well in the Minors , he is no fluke .
That means that he has a chance, he’s no lock.
Yeah, I was responding more to him never heard of him, so he must be a fluke take .
Who are your picks for the spots that are up for grabs?
So did Linden.
Hey- if you go with my take, I’ll go with yours.
I liked what I saw from Marrero this weekend. He hits the ball HARD.
Yeah, I agree Doc. At Friday`s game, he was rakin`.
I could see keeping Morse for RH power off the bench….he would better handle that role than Mac being wasted sitting around.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2gGa4kXLj6c
Amazon has an original series, “Goliath”. It stars Billy Bob Thornton and William Hurt, good stuff. Can’t go wrong with an alcoholic down out lawyer living in a cheesy motel and taking on a monster corporation represented by his former firm. Big Country Mike says check out Billy Bob.
Home. Found a little glass jar with marijuana in it on our living room floor. Since I doubt our Labrador Retriever is indulging, I’m guessing the dog-sitter (a college girl who’s a friend of our daughter) and/or her friend(s) left it behind.
Do I a) quietly dispose of the stuff and say nothing b) ask our daughter to mention it to her friend c) tell the girl myself?
I should mention that I really don’t care very much and that she really is an excellent dog-sitter. And my daughter’s dear friend since high school.
Tough call, Doc. I wouldn’t care much either, but since she had it at your place it’s a bit concerning. If she wants to smoke weed, she should do it at her own place.
Personally, I don’t do it cause the smell would reek on my clothes.
Well, it could be a friend of hers that she had over. I’ll discuss it delicately with my daughter, who adores the dog and would also know if her friend parties.
it would probably be a good idea to send it to me, and i’ll make sure it’s ok.
Don’t Bogart that joint, my friend…
we could run some experiments in your lab
The scene in Easy Rider around the campfire is pretty great. Jack.
“Pass it over to me…”
“Don’t give me no bammer weed. We don’t smoke that shit in the SFC.”
You should probably let her know via b or c – she’s probably paranoid that she left it in your house, and that paranoia will only be exacerbated the next time she is smoking, which may be too often if she’s making spacey moves like that.
Good point.
How was Labby looking when you got home?
Normal. I’m sure a little weed would probably help her arthritis, though!
I’d be more concerned that she was spaced enough to misplace it and leave it behind. That’s too loose to watch Lola. That would make Lola the smarter of the two.
A few years ago, when our daughter was over 18 but not yet 21, we came home from a weekend away (she stayed home with the dog) and found a six-pack of cheap beer in the fridge. Then the dog trotted in from the backyard with a champagne cork she’d found out there. I guess some fun had been had.
I’m confused. Who found the six-pack?
We did. We were mainly horrified to find that swill in our house. We thought we’d raised her better than that.
My first thought is: thank God she wasn’t Peter’s dog sitter.
Me? ‘Who is care.’
I’m along those lines…
tell her the dog ate it, and you’re consulting a lawyer.
YUCK
Get your butt and your glove down.
And Kelby smiles quietly in the dugout…
With that left side of the IF, Gints are a lock. Not.
Bend-it made me look prescient.
Between this HP umpire and Rollins, Shark’s not having a lot of fun out there this inning.
What station are you watching the game?
It’s on MLB.TV, so just streaming through the Roku.
I’m stating, categorically, I don’t want to see JRoll on this team on Opening Day.
I second that motion.
Well, that does it. He’s a lock to be on the team.
I’m willing to filibuster towards that end…even though it is a different stance than our dear friend, the honorable senator from Ottawa.
Unfortunately, he’s living in the past. Rollins was a great player… Once.
Well, he also thinks Cain should be in the rotation, so…
Yup. I packed a lunch….
Currently at .150. I’d say not to worry.
That’s .375 in Bochy Years
Saw a T-shirt in a store window in Old Town Scottsdale: “In ‘Dog Beers,’ I’ve only had one.”
LOL
Is this G’sgame on Comcast or MLB tonight??
No, only if you have MLB.TV. I’m watching through my Roku.
thanks.
Despite Gillaspie being so hot at the plate, he is still the backup to Nunez, right? Sorry I’ve been following ST sporadically.
Yes, in fact Bochy reiterated it after yesterday’s game (that Nunez is the starter). Carl Steward had it in his postgame article.
Span with a walk. He’s heating up.
Now that’s funny. Did he trot or run.
I figured that he got on base because nobody said anything about it. It was like that last year, too. He could go 3 for 4 with 2 runs scored and an RBI and we’d hear about cool it was that KT hit a broken bat grounder that moved a guy over. CLUTCH AB!!!!!!
They’re pulling everything Marge throws up there.
Bend-it blows-it
On further reflection, Team USA can have Samardzija. UGH
I hope not, I want the USA to win.
He seems to be playing for that 5 spot.
I see Marrero is play 1B
Brandy would have had that.
If I were him, I wouldn’t catch anything with one hand.
He just wasn’t quick enough.
JRoll, on a roll.
And he falls down on the grass. How lame is that.
He BARELY got that 3rd out, on a routine grounder hit directly at him. Sheesh.
At least it’s fun watching MM- Mac-Marrero swing away.
Aaaargh. Kars…….
Dumb question y’all. Just got a score alert while I’m driving home. So my question is, who the f%#^! Is the starter tonight? WTF
Samardzija. : (((((
You may hate me for this – but what the f%#^! are you doing typing while you drive?
Pulled in for diesel. All good.
Bene. No offense, por favor.
p.s. I saw recent stats on how vehicle deaths have surged, past cardiacs or something, due to ‘inattentive’ (is that the word?) drivers…
Correct word is dumba$$.
When I type while driving, I prefer a Corona typewriter.
OK, that’s really funny. Do you still have a slide rule somewhere?
I do. 2. One’s fluorescent so I can use it at night.
Linear or circular?
I never do anything that requires more than 3 significant digits.
You had an amputation while giving the Boy Scout oath?
Here’s my Dad’s which is now mine (I still remember how to drive it).
http://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/search/object/nmah_1332602
Yes, 3 digits had something going for it, you learned how to do orders of magnitude in your head, and who needs more than 3 digits.
That one pic with the red/green label on the end of that box? EXACTLY like the one I had. My Dad’s, of course; he was an civil engineer.
Yes, I have the box and leather case, just like the pictures. A present from my Mom, its plastic coating on mohagany. The slipstick runs like brand new, but I had to devise a replacement for one end of the slide. Cool you had one too.
I use it when my phone dies.
I live in Washington up by the Canuck border. Still not legal to text and drive but not as risky but when I’m in the Bay Area I don’t even look at my cell phone. I have even shut it off at times to avoid any temptations. Will check in later.
What do you listen to on the road?
Airhead Smarge.
Hopefully Blach wraps up the 4 spot and Cain and Smarge can battle it out for long relief.
Samardzija is fine…
The Shark, about as toothless as he was last spring. But he still had a solid start to the 2016 regular season, and if he worked in breaking stuff better the first time through the order, IMO he’d be much more effective!
.143, like a fading star…
Bend-it too! Too-for-one!!
Has he looked that lost all ST?
I’ve only seen a couple games, but listened a bunch. It doesn’t take much to come to that conclusion.
Just a shadow of the guy who showed up as a rookie with the White Sox.
Oh I was referring to JRoll. Bend-it is REALLY helpless up there, no question.
LOL. The daily two-fer.
He’s a former great looking to see if he still has it. It’s becoming clear that he doesn’t much left but he’s giving it a try and we lose practically nothing when he’s released.It wouldn’t hurt to give the man a break.
If KT goes down just to see what JRoll has left – which is zero acc/to 2015 and 2016 performance – no. No slack. He needs to go gracefully and clear some space for the youngsters, asap.
He’ll go until if or when they cut him. If he stays, it’s on Bochy.
I just love watching the Ranger talking heads suck up to the GM’s little girl. Yuk.
Don’t listen to them. MLB.com will give you KNBR and MLB.TV will give the video MUTED.
Believe me it’s on mute. But the camera’s up the GM’s nostril, the 3-year old is on the talkers’ laps, and their noses are, well…
… brown.
Shit, my microwave is looking at me again. I hate that.
I worry about my toaster-oven.
You guys, whatever you do, don’t say anything un-American. And I’m glad that toilets can’t be used to spy on us.
Says who?
Is Kellyann visiting again.
Sorry. This is funny. Can’t resist.
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/15d3a4e6a90a456cde186759efa758c5fbe2da9cbf47922df8323d856b957a5d.jpg rr
A DOUBLE FOR SPAN! (See, Chef? Credit where due.)
You didn’t leave out the word “play” in there?
Just checking
Would have been a triple except the ball got stuck at the bottom of the CF fence. Ground-rule double…
And then terrible base running, caught in a rundown between 3rd and home.
But he really hustled so that Hunter could get to 2B.
Uh, not really.
Was Hunter trying to stretch a single into a double?
No – a rundown with Span caught off 3B.
How did he get to third?
It was an infield grounder. Pence only got to second because Span was caught off third.
I’d have to see that to judge it.
And he’s stolen a base and got on base 2 times when leading off .And as far I can tell he hasn’t had a fly ball conk him on his head or throw a 12 hopper to the cut off man.
…yet…
Darn it, down here I can’t watch “Skip and Shannon – Undisputed.”
That must be some awesome viewing.
What are you watching on, Luddite?
mlb.tv, Señor Suave.
On your computer? Well, pull up MLB.com on a different page and do both.
It’s more complicated. I can pull it on on the teevee thru Apple – but this week I can’t get it on the laptop. Last week it was a Chrome problem, this week it’s Chrome and Safari.
I hate technology. And I AM a Luddite.
Firefox, maybe.
Señor Luddito, Qué lástima!
Wait. Can’t you call up the audio on At Bat? And use Apple TV FOR THE VIDEO FEED? ooops
Hat trick for Rollins.
Hey! Lefty’s Guy, Hernadez on the bump!
Jon Miller informs that Hernandez is from Elk Grove, where he attended Cosumnes River College. I taught ESL for a semester at CRC in 1986 as a very young new MA.
Was David even born yet?
He’s 31, so–barely.
These type of things conspire to make me feel ancient…
How does Sherry Jackson from Make Room for Daddy make you feel.
I hosted a going away dinner for my team in Chicago. 8 of us…the conversation was about childhood crushes. They were listing Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears, people like that…I said Mary Tyler Moore, who recently passed away…they all basically said they had no idea how hot she was until seeing clips of the Dick Van Dyke show in the remembrances…in black and white. Because that’s all we had back then.
Interacting with a younger Facebook friend:
She: Ryan Gosling is my generation’s George Clooney.
Me: George Clooney is my George Clooney.
Speaking of MTM, the day after she passed, I did a little impromptu tribute for my students, who were only vaguely aware of who she was. I said “a pioneer for women in acting, in comedy, playing strong independent women when that was barely a thing yet, an Oscar nominee for an amazing, complex role, dealt with a chronic, serious illness for most of her life…” I surprised myself with how passionate I was. I really admired her, for a long, long time.
The contrast between Laura Petrie, Mary Richards, and her role in “Ordinary People” really showed what a great and versatile actress she was.
Siskel Ebert Oracle
I just downloaded “Ordinary People” to watch on one of my upcoming lengthy flights. Ever since seeing “Manchester by the Sea” (which has been compared to Ordinary People), I’ve wanted to see it again.
Was in a local store Saturday where they were playing “Live at the Fillmore East” as background music. I said to the 20-something behind the counter “that’s a nice soundtrack you’ve got going”. He looks at me (60-year old guy) and says “It’s the Allman Brothers”.
It took all my Southern bred politeness not to shout “Well, DUH”.
Old guys know certain things.
Uh-oh- he done good.
The second half of March is always the interesting part.
Bruce has 3 really, really important but seemingly easy decisions.
5th starter
Left field
Back up middle infielder
He has 3 less important but tougher decisions
Bullpen make up
Back up outfielders
2 or 3 catchers , and who
My hopes:
Blach, Parker, KT (Conor as back up 3B, 1B, LH PH)
Melancon, Smith, Kontos, Gearrin, Okert, Strickland, Cain ( for a minute)
Hernandez, Morse
2 -Posey, Hundley
Last season’s short tryout aside, not concerned about Blach’s dramatic platoon splits?
much more worried about Cain’s dramatic mound sh#%s
The Giants are playing the Rangers in Surprise, AZ, so of course I hear Neil Diamond singing “Sweet Caroline” before the bottom of the eighth.
Huh?!
looks like Smarge is gong to do his best to keep the TL Factor alive past this season, which will necessitate the Giants having a 13 man staff for quite a few years moving forward.
What started out as a thing to keep TL on the roster, and now make up for having Cain on the the staff, will be kept alive in order to allow the team to keep Jeff through his deal.
They better not get rid of Beede, Blach or Stratton this season. If Cueto leaves they are up shits creek.
It’s 11:30, it’s about to snow about 20 inches, your city is about to be in chaos….and you’re worried about a spring start for Samardzija.
I love baseball fans. We’re the best.
Working from home tomorrow, so I can take a deep dive into this. 😉
You know you are worried about Shark too. I always said last season, even after they signed him, that he was a 3 on this staff ONLY because there were no other options. They went out and got Moore BECAUSE they realized this early in the season.
Trust me he will not age well as a 4, perhaps move him to 5 sooner than later. That will entail going out and getting another 4, or god willing, Beede makes the leap by next season to the 4.
I don’t worry too much on the number, and I’m fine if Bum, Cueto, Moore slot above. If he starts 2 more years, then relieves…its fine by me. The money doesn’t bother me either.
If he eats innings, wins more than he loses, and maintains a 4.20 or so, we’re in great shape
Once you put it that way, guess looks good on paper, IF #5 is productive.
If #5 is a shit show, puts to much pressure on Shark to come through more often than not.
Last season he pitched over 200 innings and had an ERA under 4. That’s not All-Star level, but it’ll play over the long haul. Durability matters.
too many moving parts
Nothing “necessitates” a 13 man staff. There is no good reason for it, merely managerial preference.
I don’t think so because if you look at Bochy’s record, prior to having to rationalize TL on the roster, the Giants and his Padres teams didn’t keep 13 pitchers consistently.
Therefore you can’t say is a “managerial preference” right?
It’s more so out of need and the fact the management / ownership refuse to eat bad contracts and appease certain fans. They had to keep TL well past his usage and they are doing same with Cain. Thus, a 13 man staff for about 3 years is the result.
So you theory that is the manager is wrong.
The Melon Rule
I’m choosing Smarge, Gorkys ,and Pence to rag on.
Ryan Lollis now playing RF for the Giants. I’d forgotten about him.
He was one of the players who were reassigned, I believe. But they can play even if they were sent to the minor league camp.
One of the odd rules about ST. Like keeping a guy from accounting for a couple days after he’s been told he’s being laid off… just hope he doesn’t describe his mood at his exit interview as “disgruntled.”
The Chef just inadvertently came up with the next new fantastic idea.
MyRagGuys
Some are predictable:
Efrain – Belt, Samardzija, Ownership, TWG fans
Peter – Posey, Cain, Posey, CC and Posey
TO – anyone but Duvall
Lefty – Cain, Kontos, Senior Citizens, Parker
Me – Span, Footy, Rollins, Cain
who are yours?
JRoll, Beckham and Mike Piazza.
Rollins, Beckham, Morse, Cain. Seriously, can we please focus on accelerating the path to the 25-man for our homegrown players?
Twirley
this is genius!
I don’t dislike Parker. PJ keeps saying that, too, but it’s not true. I have a preference for Mac because he’s right-handed and I think has better all-around tools, but Parker seems like a nice guy who’s paid his dues. Whichever one of them wins the LF job, I’m on board.
Nobody can have Parker as their MyRagGuy. He’s mine, all mine, I tell you!
Ayn Rand.
Awesome.
Yeah, that Footy is over the hill, and out to pasture.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2CWsqGFgkA
This one, I loved. They’re even better watching them perform.
12 more cuts. Sadly, none are Rollins.
After the game, the Giants optioned RHP Kyle Crick, RHP Ian Gardeck, IF Miguel Gomez, RHP Chase Johnson, RHP Reyes Moronta and RHP Dan Slania and reassigned OF Wynton Bernard, OF Steven Duggar, C Aramis Garcia, IF Ryder Jones, OF Austin Slater and C Matt Winn.
That’s now 23 players cut from the 70 total players when camp opened.
Surely they weren’t serious about Rollins ever making the team, so whatever the reason is that he’s there, he might as well be there the whole spring?
I’ll help you out- they were serious. As far the cuts they made, these kids will be better off in the minors for now. And none of them had any chance to make the team out of camp anyway.I’d be pissed if KT were to go down instead of Hill and/or Rollins, but I don’t think that will happen.But I have exactly zero problem with him being here trying to win a job. Obviously, I’m in the minority. Again.
This has been your Monds Minority Report.
They are absolutely serious, and don’t call me Shirley.
I didn’t really think they’d cut Rollins. Guys like him and Morse are staying for the duration, whether or not they make the team.
Lots of rust
There was:is a plan
Just catching up with the day. Was this game really as ugly as the box score would seem to indicate?
Yes, it was ugly. I was following it on MLB’s Gameday. Pence drove in a run on a single in T1, Rangers took the lead 2-1 on an error by Rollins and a single. Then in B2 Samardzija gave up 3 singles to start the inning and the next batter, Carlos Gomez, hit an opposite field grand slam. Samardzija now has a 9.82 ERA this spring. Yuck.
Ugly and boring–after the second inning, basically nothing happened.
Rollins had three strikeouts and an error that led to two unearned runs in the first inning. That, along with Samardzija (and the general lack of energy) was the lowlight.
So that was the hat-trick CC referred to. WhyTF wasn’t he cut. (Rhetorical.) :o(
players are not cut until…..
But a bad game is not a criteria
It was “spring training” for staying up past my bedtime because of a ball game. I went 7 strong innings, but know there’s still another hour time shift to come when the season starts. Not much else to say about it.
@disqus_SkaPW7utRj:disqus is the only one in the My25ManGuy™ knocked out by this cut as he went for Slania to make the team. They did add him to the 40-Man this winter and it was a long shot pick. Lefty sounded like she put Slania on the starting rotation in Sac where he finished last year. That is looking like a Loaded group where any of them could be called up: Blach, Beede, Slania, Stratton, Gage, Coonrod?
So, Chef was justified in leaving me off his extensive TWG moniker list…I’m slumping like Rollins.
It’s time for a tribute post…since – in part – my Slania spaghetti pick knocked me out, but mostly because Lefty did a fantastic post regarding the legendary breakthrough career of Mary Tyler Moore. I’m sharing the original female breakthrough actress, my Great Grandmother, Helen Holmes. She did her own stunts, and was the FIRST true female star in her era, cut short by injury and later, technology (her voice wasn’t made for talkies…)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHJRTgkZXJM
“hits on the desperate expedient”
Nobody hits on a desperate expedient like Nana
Wow … so you have some Roots and genetic advantages … and since you write here and not speak that voice-thing fits well too.
“Knocked out” was probably too strong. You missed on one and that may end up being a Winner if none of us get 100%. It AIn’t Over Until It’s Over.
Nothing like a baseball game on at 6:30 in the morning. Japan just took the lead in the 8th. Got to have one of Japan or Cuba in your final four. Haven’t seen mention of Otani, but those guys can play no matter who is in the lineup. Cuban team has been decimated by defections, but they can always play the game.
…
Reading the writing the blog, it sure sounds like Jimmy Rollins is washed up and this camp is the last hurrah. I’m with Chef and his concession speech. It’s been a great run.
It also sounds like immunity from injury puts Kelby Tomlinson on the OD roster. He’s done everything asked of him in his stint with the Giants. He and Conor should have the utility infield covered. If Hill and Beckham want to report to Sacramento, that’s their prerogative.
Has Nunez played any SS at all this spring? If not, I suppose him backing up Crawford during the season is out of the question. Maybe in a pinch, but I thought he had played quite a few games at SS in his career.
Parker and Marrero make for an interesting LF combo, but does Marrero handle the field well enough? Perhaps it is best if Mac just makes the squad – which will happen eventually anyway.
Is Hundley the backup catcher or is it Brown’s job to lose. Bullpen jobs up for grabs per usual. Also sounds like Cain is in the doghouse with Rollins.
Whatever the final decisions for the 25, there will be a fine collection of talent on the 40 man and the Giants may actually be favored to win the rest in the right light – because strong, healthy starting pitching often counts most.
Plan A is for Nunez to be the 3B in his last year of control. I could see him asked to play OF if things go badly out there, with Gillaspie and Hwang having good springs. Bench is going to be solid this year, no matter what answers your questions have. A great year to follow Giants BB, and the River Cats are gonna be good too.
Hwang is my guy. He’s going to factor in the equation this year. He’s been trending in the right direction, and will become a major league player.
‘zactly. Me too. He looks like a friendly fellow too, and seems to be adjusting to America pretty quickly.
Are you still in the market for a riding mower?
I have an old Troy-Built rototiller, and this brand seems pretty well made and reliable for this class of engine.
They’re one of the best.
how much
I have a generic riding tractor, with a Briggs and Stratton engine. Those seem good, but all the rest of the machine is kind of giving out (admittedly, after 15 years of driving in circles around my yard). I’m definitely looking for something of better quality, and the “zero turn radius” option seems nifty. Haven’t pulled the trigger on anything yet – grass is under an inch of snow at the moment, so I’ve got time. Thanks for the T-B opinion.
I’ve had one for 20 years and the only problem was a broken transfer case and that came from trying to rototill a rock garden.
The one with the Kohler engine is the best.
Sounded from Henry Schulman that if Hwang isn’t on the Opening Day roster, he can decline AAA and try out with another team. Too bad he can’t play shortstop or in the OF.
Hwang has no chance to make OD roster
I wouldn’t say no chance with 3 weeks to go before the regular season starts, but they are slim.
I really liked what I saw of him this weekend. Good pop, has an idea at the plate. Great hustle and energy. I think he’s going to factor this year.
They could trade Rollins for Craw at the WBC.
Rollins is the perfect fit for WBC play … use the guys that are leaving the MLB after good careers and some fame. Fans will go for that.
+ close to HOF credentials
..but not the HOF capabilities anymore. He looked pitiful yesterday.
Agreed on yesterday. He did not play 3/4 of last season. That is a huge obstacle for him
I don’t get your loyalty to someone that just isn’t as good as he used to be. He’s famous. I get it. He, also, doesn’t have it anymore. I know he’ll get the same support from Boch and probably get a bench spot. He’ll, also, not cut it and contribute to something bad before he’s released. I get it, it’s the culture and the culture prevails. I’m just not buying it, myself, in this case.
I am not “loyal” to him I just like the fact that from day one – a neighbor of mine – Bob Poole told me he had to fudge on the 5×7 scouting cards about his height and weight – meaning there are two players that base on their physical stature – had no business playing pro baseball. Rollins and Gregg Jefferies. https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/543eafa48974d505c1a4facb4f1cb967d74b6b53350482d48959fd15222c7f74.jpg
http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2535769/20130424_190716.jpg
http://www.thegoodphight.com/2013/4/26/4268198/scouting-jimmy-rollins-as-a-high-school-player-in-1996
http://www.jockbio.com/Bios/Rollins/Rollins_bio.html
As I said, I DO get it and he’ll get, at least, a HOF nod, if not the real thing.
Maybe you mean Mike Morse? Rollins may well be HOFish, but not at the moment.
Angel Pagan is an exact example of what you mean, and Nori Aoki might be close to that too.
None of the OF combo’s are a perfect fit. Question for them is do we sacrifice some defense for offense? A better fit woud be if one of the RH power guys could play CF.
Nunez has SS reps.
KT has options
I keep saying this, and it’s important. KT has options, yes–and he’s on the 40-man roster. Rollins, Hill, and Hwang are not. They’d have to cut “inventory” to get one of those guys onto the 40, so that offsets KT’s options. But KT has earned the spot in any case.
I am a KT fan. He had some growing pains when first called up but all players do.
What I am doing is “pulling” for JR – that is all. I will be fine either way.
What I am not a fan of is some on here are “pulling for” their certain player by rooting against or denigrating other players. I am of an opinion that fans can stand behind their guy 100% and leave the derogatory words out.
We don’t want to damage Rollins’ self-esteem. If he doesn’t make the team, I hope they give him a beautiful participation trophy.
Doubtful a 5’7″ – 17 year ML baseball player has self esteem issues …
He should know when it is time to call it quits, and leave with his head held high .
I am for the most deserving player, not because he is an Oakland native and you coach in that area, .
Doubtful that you’re engaged enough because on the ML level there have always been players at the end of their careers that have garnered enough cred – to elongate their careers. Deserving something based on some Spring Training concept is highly uncommon unless we are talking College or HS baseball. Why in Pro Heavyweight boxing – even when it was a decent sport – does the incumbent have to be beaten thoroughly by the unranked fighter?
Rollins is on a Minor league deal not a MLB deal, he is coming off 2 bad MLB season , he was waived last year, out of the game for half a year, he has to show something in Spring to get a roster spot, he is guaranteed nothing.
Morse is in the exact same spot as well, he needs to be great to make the team.
So anyone with any experience is ALWAYS preferable to someone with less experience, no matter how washed-up the veteran might be? And “washed-up” happens to everyone except maybe Nolan Ryan and Mariano Rivera.
By that argument, they might as well stick Cody Ross out in LF, since they have him around, anyway. He’s three years younger than Rollins! And Shawon Dunston Sr. looks to be in great shape, while we’re at it.
I don’t think I ever said *anyone* or *always* but I feel Rollins alone knows if he is washed up. As others have said 5-10 lbs on a SS – 5’7″ would be a disaster.
I actually subscribe to one lesson in Pat Riley’s book about ‘Never Say Never’ and ‘Never Say Always’
Really? You think a late-30s player is the best judge “alone” of whether he’s done (or should be)? I’m thinking they’re probably the LEAST objective evaluator. I can imagine that it’s very hard to let go of something you’ve done your whole life.
I can think of a lot of recent ex-Giants who are still hanging on: Peavy, Vogelsong, Pagan–Javi Lopez still thought he could pitch, but the right opportunity didn’t come along and so he retired. Even Lincecum hasn’t given up yet. Hudson and Affeldt are the recent guys who actually accepted reality gracefully.
I think guys and gals that play or have played any competitive large team sport have a voice inside his/her heads that tell them items like that yes….
Dunston is 53 yrs old and Cody has a serious hip complication ….
But “pulling for” Rollins DOES mean pulling against KT–because they’re competing for the same spot. Derogatory words or not, you’re still siding with Rollins. And you’re entitled to your feelings, of course, but I can’t say I understand it.
We don’t owe Rollins any loyalty. He’s never been a Giant. He rooted against the Giants as a kid. He played for the Phillies and the Dodgers and then turned the Giants down last year to play for the White Sox. Now, none of that is a reason to hate him if he makes the team, of course, but we also owe him nothing at this moment as fans, and the team owes him nothing, either.
KT was drafted and developed by the Giants and has been a good Giant so far. He’s also the better choice, given that it’s 2017 and not 2007. So I’m not ashamed to say that I’m pulling FOR KT to make the team, which, yes, means AGAINST Rollins making it.
I am actually the keeper of my own thoughts regarding what I meant and did not mean. I am truly wishing for/hoping for JR to make the team *in the capacity that they see him for* and I know KT will garner enough hard to deny moments where he too or both will help the Giants thus I am not pulling against KT.
I have pulled on a rope before or tugged on a rope before and can’t fathom reverse inertia – having any value when I concocted my original sentence.
My own Nostradamus thoughts are that Rollins comes up lame with a Hammy or Quad trying to own this new role and he will see the writing on the wall.
It’s unbelievable that some give him shit for trying to make the team. If he continues to play poorly and still makes the 25 man, it’s on Bochy- NOT Jimmy.
I wish I had said that.
Screw Rollins.
Or, maybe, unscrew him.
Hill or Rollins and KT could be on the team.
Right on.
Nunez played a decent SS for the Yankees when he came up. He can handle it on a short term basis.
NUNEZ HAS STARTED 254 GAMES IN HIS CAREER AT SS. I don’t think getting reps in during SS would matter too much, the guy has actually been a starting SS longer than Duffy and Tomlinson put together.
Tomlinson? 8, yes 8 games in his career.
It;’s called google, you should try it sometime.
I took your advice- and went to Google. It would appear that you might be of Hebrew or Spanish descent.You will like what the name suggests- that you might be a fertile man, one who is “a sexy beast who loves tacos can be found lurking the shadows of dark alleys”
OK, I just had V-8 spew out through my nose thanks to you.
If you had mixed the V-8 with catsup it would have been spectacular
I hope it was the Lo-Na version. That stuff is dangerous for blood pressure.
I only drink the low-salt stuff, ever. During my first pregnancy, I couldn’t tolerate anything too salty–V-8, a can of Campbell’s soup, etc.–just couldn’t even get it down. I switched to low-salt (or better, no-salt) everything and never switched back. I get some complaints from the hubs about my cooking sometimes–I go very light on salt and prefer other herbs for flavor–but I told him he could always add salt if he really must.
Calvin Trillin said the secret to no/low salt was to use a ton of black pepper instead. It works.
Also, the hot V8 is my favorite.
That was the Gargle search engine.
I can live with that thanks
I don’t think we have to have Japan or Cuba in the final four anymore, it’s not the 1970s or 80’s.
There are many more nations now that have good programs. Plus, as you mention, Cuba has been decimated by the defections and Japan has many more player in MLB who are in ST as we speak.
It’s tPuerto Rico and DR’s time now, so many young new talent mixed with solid veterans and they play a fun, emotional style of ball.
Hundley is definitely the backup catcher, though Brown’s had a great spring, and for that matter, so has Feder– Fedor– Fed-Ex. Depth is good. Carl had an article the other day about how Posey’s WBC absence has actually been good for Hundley, as he’s gotten lots of reps with all the pitchers.
I think Nunez did play SS in a game a week or two ago, and he could certainly back up Crawford in a pinch, but since Bochy says he’s the starting 3B (per Carl a couple days ago), you need someone else, too. KT, probably, who started at SS both weekend games we saw, and looked fine there.
I do not think Marrero handles the OF well, just based on my limited eye test (he played in all of the games we saw). But that’s not surprising, as he’s been about 90% at 1B in his pro career.
The Mac/Parker thing is coming down to it–Parker had a great day on Sunday, but Mac’s hitting .350ish for spring. The smart $$$ is still on Parker, but I don’t think it’s a done deal yet.
R-handed first basemenNyet !Glad to see Suarez getting a start. What would be ideal IMO, is Albert getting the swingman role and Blach getting the 5 . Beede is better served starting the year in AAA. That would be if Matt is out of the picture. I’m very skeptical about him but with about 3 weeks to go, it’s tough to rule him out. If he does make the squad, I suspect that it will be out of the pen.
Cuba is out for sure, 0-2 in the second Round, Japan is in 2-0, Israel and the Netherlands are 1-1, with Japan vs Israel, and Netherlands vs Cuba, the only 2 games left in that round , Netherlands beat Israel head to head already .
Caliendo channels Freeman for bracket picks http://es.pn/2lWTJZR
I’m hearing the Giants are actually on the MLB Network today at 1pm…changing meetings to accommodate.
Priorities
#BossesMake OwnRules
Kelly Anne’s cachucha:
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/5e54813f76660c5161c41a3feffa4ebb5a8de7bd17cb7bf916e293e6bcfacffc.jpg
Expect G’s will wait with Rollins as a show of respect. Sad to see the decline of the greats. Toughest was watching Mays near the end.
Interesting. Though Mays struck out 123 times in 71, more than he had ever before, he also walked 112 times. His previous high had been 82.
That Mays season was a great season, he was a 40 years old CF, had his Career high OB% season, had a Career high in Walks, his OPS was .907, his WAR 6.3 was the best for a 40 year old, they had a quiz about this on Baseball know on MLB Network, to many people on this blog go crazy over Strikeouts .
**Off-Topic***
I turned to KNBR this morning…a rarity…and I heard Fitz and sMurphy arguing over the decision to sit Warriors regulars during the San Antonio game this past weekend.
The argument was based upon the fans spending $$ to see the stars and not getting them.
I am not a fan of Fitz, but I found myself siding with him over sMurphy’s “dog-on-a-bone” (he even used that line) argument that you don’t see baseball players sitting out that many games and Michael Jordan didn’t sit either.
From baseball standpoint, sMurphy needs to pull his head out. The baseball schedule typically allows visiting teams to play teams in close proximity (ex: San Diego, LA, then SF) *and* those team stay in the same city for series that includes anywhere from 2 to 4 games. You also see situations where older players won’t play a day game…right after a night game. Their rosters are also bigger.
I’m not going to spend the time researching the miles the Jordan Bulls teams traveled, but it’s already been documented that the Warriors are breaking records in the amount of miles traveled per season. As sMurphy kept saying how many game Mike Trout played last season (supporting his baseball argument), Fitz was mentioning that studies have been made that you are essentially in a drunken state, when you are sleep deprived by traveling in X amount of cities in Y games (creating even more opportunities for injury). Then you throw in there that every team is giving the Warriors their “A Game” and you can only imagine the amount of physical/mental fatigue these goes go through. As many of us know, it’s all about the $$, but there was one example where Cleveland came through and played the Suns, Jazz, Trailblazers, Kings, and the Warriors all in one trip…while the Warriors are doing trips like NY, Chicago, home to Boston, then back to Minnesota, and close out in San Antonio.
My point here is not to make excuses for the Warriors, but to agree with Fitz that until the NBA does a better job of scheduling trips like baseball…coaches are going to start sitting players; regardless of the fans.
Personally, I go to baseball games knowing that I may not see Buster…or the visiting team’s better players. It’s part of the baseball culture and it’ll be up to the NBA schedule makers to decide if this will become part of the NBA’s culture.
Basketball is also a much more physically strenuous game. I think baseball is more of a mental grind.
I agree about baseball being a mental grind, but I also think you can see the mental aspect of basketball fatigue when you see lots of unusual turnovers or lack of scoring (especially with the Warriors). I can imagine both seasons (basketball and baseball) seem like the longest marathon runs ever for these athletes.
The other major difference is in perception. Baseball players have always sat out games. Basketball players sitting out is something relatively new.
No, only catchers, most star middle of the order players rarely rest .
Hardly anyone plays all 162. Only three players in MLB played in every game last season. Belt led the Giants with 156 games played, and that includes at least a couple of games where he didn’t start, but pinch hit. 24 year-old Kris Bryant played in only 155. A baseball player resting 7-8 games is like a basketball player sitting out 3-4, when you compare the number of games in each schedule.
Fitz is a joke, he always brings up Posey who is a Catcher , so rests more, when Murph mentions Trout and other position players that do not play Catcher that play 159-162 games a year, Fitz had no answer . Fitz Has always been the biggest Tim Lincecum’s hater , always saying he can only beat the Padres, Timmy was 18-6 with a 2.20 ERA vs the Padres, but if it is so easy, why Does Matt Cain , Fitz’s crush on the Giants, only have a 8-14 career record vs the Padres , with a good ERA of 3.13 .
hahaha @ Fitz is a joke
On that subject yes, he is a Warriors apologist, and he loves to stick it to Baseball every chance he gets, as a Baseball lifer like you, I am surprised you defend him, I feel sorry for him about his wife, but he comes off like arrogant on the radio, and they even promote that .
Perhaps you should talk to people in the business that grade his work without an agenda and also listen for three years at some of what’s available throughout the NBA that passes as play by play TV announcers.
I am talking about his talk show, I am blacked out of Warriors games on CSN .
Fitz is just bent because his Chicago Bears suck.
Here’s another part of the picture that I read the other day: Because the Warriors are now a marquee team, they’re playing tons of national TV games…and that affects their scheduling. The Kings, who are also a West Coast team, are traveling 10,000 fewer miles than the Warriors this year. The Dubs are being punished for their success.
Yep. That was discussed too. With local cable coverage and stuff, the NBA shouldn’t have to alter travel to get a national game. Use local people (if they already aren’t doing so) and let the commentators do the traveling.
Weren’t the Giants punished for their success a couple years back when, as defending WS champs, they had to play a couple of Sunday Night baseball games on the road, then fly overnight back to SF? Bochy wasn’t too keen on that.
The odd thing about that is Murph when talking with ‘other’ well known scribes that call – will agree with them and now disagree with Fitz. Murph is just bent that he went to Mount Tam HS.
I can’t believe I’d ever think this, but Fitz > sMurph.
Yes.
I’m a bit torn on this argument:
From a player’s perspective, it gives me the opportunity to recharge for the playoffs and to play better down the stretch for the opportunity to get home court advantage. My team has already clinched a playoff spot, so we need to focus on that while not driving ourselves too much into the ground during the regular season.
From a fans perspective, I paid a lot of money to go see the Warriors go into my home town. I wanted to see Steph and the other starters on the court, but not on the sideline.
I agree with your statement that NBA coaches have the right to rest their starters until the NBA corrects their scheduling making and doesn’t overburden teams with a condensed schedule. What do other players from other sports think? A Sharks player scoffed and said that “if you’re healthy enough to play, play. Get your days off on the other days.” Multiple star hockey players don’t have the luxury of sitting out an entire game, though they may get less ice time each game. The Sharks had to go to the East Coast to play 5 games in 8 days back in October and in December they had to play 4 games in 6 days. The Sharks, last season and this season, have the most mileage among all NHL players.
Its a bit of apples and oranges and in the end it comes down to what’s best for the coaches, players and the team. Screw the fans.
Today is the irrational day of celebration, National Pi Day. If you’re interested, the National Academy of Science has all their publications/books on sale for 32% off.
https://www.nap.edu/?utm_source=NASEM+News+and+Publications&utm_campaign=8e9b35efcf-Pi_Day_2017_03_14&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_96101de015-8e9b35efcf-102375505&goal=0_96101de015-8e9b35efcf-102375505&mc_cid=8e9b35efcf&mc_eid=2e90493188
The last 2 years had better Pi days. 3.14.15(926) & 3.14.16
Might as well use a slide rule if we aren’t going to use more than 3 digits.
Being incorrigible isn’t the same as being traditional.
I don’t get it and it’s making me angry.
I’m as corrigible as the next guy.
OK.
Not to mention ept.
Indeed. Thank you for that; you’re a Mensch.
The checkers at the Nugget this morning seemed a bit miffed that I was a) holding class on Pi Day and b) not buying any pie.
You’re clearly a rationalist.
Whoa – WAY over my head ~ ~
Because you are a cornbread enthusiast?
Clueless b me. Now I know where there’s so many damn pies in the breakroom at work. Doh!
Oh, no. Not Pi day again. The huge crowds, the crazy drunkenness, gangs of out of control nerds harassing women, all the fights…I should call in sick.
https://s3.amazonaws.com/lowres.cartoonstock.com/law-order-form-form_follows_function-stalking-stalkers-harassment-bven1164_low.jpg
Any of the players looking for a job as reserves face the same problem- the make up of the roster. If, for example Hwang, Morse, KT, Brown, Hill, etc has a great Spring, they could still be out or force an equally impressive player out. A more detailed example would be if Hwang forces his way on, they would have to most certainly carry 3 infield reserves, cutting out Morse, Marrero , Ruggie, and either Mac or Gorkys -and it wouldn’t matter how those guys performed.
In any case, we would need at least a 30 man roster for all of the deserving players to make it. The good news is that we’ll have a very good AAA roster for some nice depth.
Exactly. How about most Benches have a Catcher, two INF [that cover all the positions] and two OF [that cover all fields]?
Given Conor and Hundley are in you get to pick two OF’ers and one INF’er [who has to compliment CG … leaving out Hwang and Marrero; as you said, no matter how great they do … unless CG is injured]. Gorkys is the clear CF preference and so has the edge. Only five of us on MyGuy have BOTH Mac and Parker but I am seeing how that can be the answer [unless Rugg is so impressive you want to risk Parker or keep Mac in Sac.]
Only injuries or trades can change this scenario.
I just got a cool piece in the mail. My “MyGuy” Pin arrived for last years win. Haak, thank you for doing all of this. This site is lucky to have you on it.
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/9bb89cb28fe5145b2f1652a63c33c0698923f1c22013e9292372c883ec215690.jpg
Nice. That’s the first time I’ve seen it.
That’s an awesome pin! Congrats! And nice work Haak!
Allen’s sweetheart-widow found that picture he took to bring some levity in a reference to the “Crazy Crab” days. She really appreciates the kind words here and that many of you gave Allen his baseball-fix.
I was sporting my pin on my River Cats hat in Scottsdale this weekend.
He was a goodguy, and I suspect we are all better for having known him.
Very cool. Congrats. And well done, Haak.
Today’s lineup on Pi Day:
3/14 #SFGSpring lineup at CLE:
Nunez DH
Tomlinson SS
Belt 1B
Parker LF
Hill 2B
Hwang 3B
Ruggiano RF
Brown C
Hernandez CF
Suarez P
Andrew or Alberto (P)?
Albert. A big start for him today.
I thought Albert performed well last year for about 5 innings/start.
I think he’s the ideal swing man, perhaps Yusmeiro Dos.
Corollary: Blach starts, not relieves.
p.s. Cain watches.
He was pretty shaky when we saw him on Friday on Scottsdale.
The perfect Pi(e) crust. https://qz.com/931472/how-to-make-the-perfect-pie-crust-according-to-science/
OFF Topic
Apparently the Aldon Smith and other bad NFL apples are sharing the use of their lawyers with others. SMH
http://www.nydailynews.com/news/crime/texas-teacher-probation-sentence-sex-students-article-1.2996440
New Post: http://fe0.84e.myftpupload.com/2017-giants-offseason-news/spring-training-preview-giants-take-on-indians/
Jarrett Parker : Tater machine
That ball was smoked. And did you just see Ruggiano dent that palm tree?