From a blogger who calls thyself anonymous, we are given the origins of the World Series. Or at least what sounds very much like a credible account of the origins of the World Series, I believe it. Thank you very much anonymous for the response, keep on bloggin'.
-Dave
"There is a myth that the World Series got its name from the New York World newspaper, which was very popular in the late 1800's. But, the NY World claimed no affiliation with major league baseball. In 1887, Spalding Baseball Guide called the series between Chicago and St. Louis in 1886, the "The World's Championship", because they needed a title to make it sound more coveted. Spalding thought the game would spread world wide and there would eventually be intercontinental leagues, in the future. The name stuck and went from "World's Championship Series", to "World's Series", then finally to "World Series"."
Monday, October 30, 2006
TWO MINUTES OF FUN!!!
Your weekly quick-witted two minutes of WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP fun brought to you by semosportsweb.com with your host: me, Scott Rolen's biggest fan.
*I always wondered why they call an American sports championship a WORLD championship. Did the Cardinals beat every team in every professional league in the world??? No, but they would have if given the chance - so therefore, they're are WORLD champions in my book.
*Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Carlos Zambrano, Bobby Cox, Lance Berkman, Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, Gary Sheffield, all the other Yankees, Jose Reyes, Carlos Beltran, Kenny Rogers, Bud Selig, Fox executives, Dusty Baker, Mark Prior and Kerry Wood, and to all those other annoying baseball stars that I failed to mention: THE ST. LOUIS CARDINALS ARE THE WORLD CHAMPIONS!!!
*After the Cardinals won the championship, I began to wonder about the Cubs. And this is what I decided: The Chicago Cubs would probably be the only team in baseball history, maybe sports history, who's yearly attendance would lower drastically a year after winning the World Series. I'm convinced that Cubs fans are only Cubs fans because the Cubs lose. The minute they win, there won't be near as many Cubbie Fans.
*And speaking of the Cubs, I've compiled a step-by-step program that will lead to a World Series Championship.
Step 1 - Hire a manager who believes in curses. Obviously the hiring of a manager who says, "of course I don't believe in curses" isn't working. There is obviously a curse, and the first step to fixing the problem is admitting that there is a problem.
Step 2 - Give up on Mark Prior and Kerry Wood and trade them now while they still have minor league value. They're not going to work for you in Chicago, in case that isn't obvious by now.
Step 3 - Sign Kenny Lofton in the off season.
Step 4 - Fire Sweet Lou and hire Joe Girardi. What were you thinking in the first place? It's obvious that Girardi is the better choice, he led a team of minor league players in Florida last year to a near playoff birth -almost similar to the same team that you have in Chicago. Sweet Lou is a big name, just like Dusty Baker was, who isn't going to win, just like Dusty Baker didn't win. This decision was nearly as bad as not letting the goat in the stadium. Girardi was the best option by far, and you screwed up.
Step 4 - Sign Alex Rodriguez. Please. Then you can stop blaming your post-season failures on the goat and on Steve Bartman, and start blaming them on someone in your organization - which was, and still is, the problem all along.
And finally, Step 5 - Pray.
*Now that baseball season is over, we will shift our focus to the Blues and the Rams, all the while following the Cardinal's offseason behavior. I hope you're ready.
*I need witnesses for two things: First and foremost, if you have any other ideas to help the pathetic Cubs, please post them. Secondly, I'll take opinions, suggestions, or questions regarding the Cardinals offseason. Post or email at dunterreiner@semosportsweb.com
*I always wondered why they call an American sports championship a WORLD championship. Did the Cardinals beat every team in every professional league in the world??? No, but they would have if given the chance - so therefore, they're are WORLD champions in my book.
*Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Carlos Zambrano, Bobby Cox, Lance Berkman, Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, Gary Sheffield, all the other Yankees, Jose Reyes, Carlos Beltran, Kenny Rogers, Bud Selig, Fox executives, Dusty Baker, Mark Prior and Kerry Wood, and to all those other annoying baseball stars that I failed to mention: THE ST. LOUIS CARDINALS ARE THE WORLD CHAMPIONS!!!
*After the Cardinals won the championship, I began to wonder about the Cubs. And this is what I decided: The Chicago Cubs would probably be the only team in baseball history, maybe sports history, who's yearly attendance would lower drastically a year after winning the World Series. I'm convinced that Cubs fans are only Cubs fans because the Cubs lose. The minute they win, there won't be near as many Cubbie Fans.
*And speaking of the Cubs, I've compiled a step-by-step program that will lead to a World Series Championship.
Step 1 - Hire a manager who believes in curses. Obviously the hiring of a manager who says, "of course I don't believe in curses" isn't working. There is obviously a curse, and the first step to fixing the problem is admitting that there is a problem.
Step 2 - Give up on Mark Prior and Kerry Wood and trade them now while they still have minor league value. They're not going to work for you in Chicago, in case that isn't obvious by now.
Step 3 - Sign Kenny Lofton in the off season.
Step 4 - Fire Sweet Lou and hire Joe Girardi. What were you thinking in the first place? It's obvious that Girardi is the better choice, he led a team of minor league players in Florida last year to a near playoff birth -almost similar to the same team that you have in Chicago. Sweet Lou is a big name, just like Dusty Baker was, who isn't going to win, just like Dusty Baker didn't win. This decision was nearly as bad as not letting the goat in the stadium. Girardi was the best option by far, and you screwed up.
Step 4 - Sign Alex Rodriguez. Please. Then you can stop blaming your post-season failures on the goat and on Steve Bartman, and start blaming them on someone in your organization - which was, and still is, the problem all along.
And finally, Step 5 - Pray.
*Now that baseball season is over, we will shift our focus to the Blues and the Rams, all the while following the Cardinal's offseason behavior. I hope you're ready.
*I need witnesses for two things: First and foremost, if you have any other ideas to help the pathetic Cubs, please post them. Secondly, I'll take opinions, suggestions, or questions regarding the Cardinals offseason. Post or email at dunterreiner@semosportsweb.com
Monday, October 23, 2006
Kenny Rogers Cheated!!!! So what.
Here come those St. Louis fans, all of them out of the woodwork. "KENNY ROGERS CHEATED. KENNY ROGERS CHEATED. SHAME ON MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL. SHAME ON KENNY ROGERS. HE CHEATED. HE CHEATED."
He did cheat. Kenny Rogers cheated the game of baseball and he cheated the Cardinals. There's no denying that. Absolutely no denying it. The substance was there, it was prominent. It was obvious. And who cares whether he did it for one inning or for eight innings, right? Absolutely. Cheating is cheating. And he should have been thrown out immediately and given a ten game suspension. But MLB turned their heads, once again, and nothing happened outside of a Tigers 3-1 win in Game 2.
So he cheated.
So did Mark McGwire.
And here's what I'm sick and tired of when it comes to St. Louis baseball fans. We hate Barry Bonds. We hate Sammy Sosa. We think Rafael Palmerio is a joke. We think Jose Canseco is a backstabbing cheater. We're pretty sure Roger Clemens is cheating. And now we hate Kenny Rogers.
But Mark McGwire remains a God-like figure. St. Louis fans seem to turn their backs on the fact that Big Mac was just as guilty as them all. St. Louis fans think the homerun record should be stripped from Barry Bonds and given back to McGwire. St. Louis fans now sport baby blue shirts at Cardinal games that say "McGwire to the Hall of Fame. Join the Movement."
But we're sure quick to jump on Kenny Rogers, aren't we?
"Oh, but Dave, Kenny Rogers did it in the WORLD SERIES."
You're right. He did it on the grandest stage of them all, right? Well, Big Mac supposedly broke the ever-illusive homerun record. And this captivated baseball. This forced ESPN to track every one of his at-bats, something they don't do for the World Series. This forced every newspaper in America to have a McGwire homerun count on the front page of Sports. This forced media all over the world to come to Cardinal games hoping to catch a glimpse of 62. This forced Bud Selig to be at every game when McGwire had a shot at breaking the record. This forced MLB to stop the game for over ten minutes so McGwire could celebrate.
Sounds to me a like a pretty grand stage as well.
Hey look, cheating is cheating. And I don't think what Kenny Rogers did was right. At all. And I don't think what Mark McGwire did was right either. And I think Kenny Rogers should serve a ten game suspension and the Cardinals should be awarded game 2. But I also think Big Mac should be banished from the Hall of Fame and his record erased.
No matter what town you live in and no matter what team you cheer for, cheating is cheating. So before you jump on Kenny Rogers and move him to number 5 on your "all-time most hated baseball player list" think about whether or not you're still a supporter of Mark McGwire. In my book, when it comes to baseball, they both broke rule #1. They both cheated.
Ok, let me hear it...
He did cheat. Kenny Rogers cheated the game of baseball and he cheated the Cardinals. There's no denying that. Absolutely no denying it. The substance was there, it was prominent. It was obvious. And who cares whether he did it for one inning or for eight innings, right? Absolutely. Cheating is cheating. And he should have been thrown out immediately and given a ten game suspension. But MLB turned their heads, once again, and nothing happened outside of a Tigers 3-1 win in Game 2.
So he cheated.
So did Mark McGwire.
And here's what I'm sick and tired of when it comes to St. Louis baseball fans. We hate Barry Bonds. We hate Sammy Sosa. We think Rafael Palmerio is a joke. We think Jose Canseco is a backstabbing cheater. We're pretty sure Roger Clemens is cheating. And now we hate Kenny Rogers.
But Mark McGwire remains a God-like figure. St. Louis fans seem to turn their backs on the fact that Big Mac was just as guilty as them all. St. Louis fans think the homerun record should be stripped from Barry Bonds and given back to McGwire. St. Louis fans now sport baby blue shirts at Cardinal games that say "McGwire to the Hall of Fame. Join the Movement."
But we're sure quick to jump on Kenny Rogers, aren't we?
"Oh, but Dave, Kenny Rogers did it in the WORLD SERIES."
You're right. He did it on the grandest stage of them all, right? Well, Big Mac supposedly broke the ever-illusive homerun record. And this captivated baseball. This forced ESPN to track every one of his at-bats, something they don't do for the World Series. This forced every newspaper in America to have a McGwire homerun count on the front page of Sports. This forced media all over the world to come to Cardinal games hoping to catch a glimpse of 62. This forced Bud Selig to be at every game when McGwire had a shot at breaking the record. This forced MLB to stop the game for over ten minutes so McGwire could celebrate.
Sounds to me a like a pretty grand stage as well.
Hey look, cheating is cheating. And I don't think what Kenny Rogers did was right. At all. And I don't think what Mark McGwire did was right either. And I think Kenny Rogers should serve a ten game suspension and the Cardinals should be awarded game 2. But I also think Big Mac should be banished from the Hall of Fame and his record erased.
No matter what town you live in and no matter what team you cheer for, cheating is cheating. So before you jump on Kenny Rogers and move him to number 5 on your "all-time most hated baseball player list" think about whether or not you're still a supporter of Mark McGwire. In my book, when it comes to baseball, they both broke rule #1. They both cheated.
Ok, let me hear it...
Sunday, October 22, 2006
Game 1 is in the Cards
Anthony Reyes is a man. Justin Verlander looked like a rookie. Tony LaRussa is a manager. Jim Leyland looked like he took the week off.
You have to wonder how long its going to take for an AL Manager to believe that Albert Pujols is for real. It's pretty much the same story time and time again when it comes to interleague play. Managers and pitchers alike think they see guys like Albert Pujols all the time, and the act of putting him on base with a base empty seems far-fetched to them. They think that since he plays in the National League he's not really all that good, just another one of the boys. Well, cheers to Justin Verlander and Jim Leyland. Pujols did it again.
But the big story here isn't Albert Pujols. Its rookie pitcher Anthony Reyes providing 8 innings of one run ball, a Jeff Suppan-esqe performance. All the critics will tell you that it was because Detroit had the week off, they were rusty. The credit will fall Anthony Reyes way very limitly. But it was pitching, and not the week off, that held the Tigers at bay. You can usually tell within the first two inning if Reyes will have his stuff. If he's letting balls rise in the strike zone, then be careful and keep him on a short leash. If he's hitting his locations, which he was last night, then be careful if you're the opposing team. I believe Reyes has earned himself another start in this world series, *if neccessary, of course.
*Did anyone notice Fox's oopsy last night during the broadcast??? At a comercial break, a World Series ticket stub was located near the top of the screen. It read: World Series Game 1. Mets v. Tigers. No joke. I must credit my friend, Andy Arnzen, on the discovery.
To answer a comment from "onetickedoffredbirdfan," I too get extremely frustrated with the lack of credit given to the St. Louis Cardinals. But its the way it is, and all we can do is keep winning ballgames. I researched your article, read it, and the first thing I noticed was that it was written by a guy with the last name of Schmuck - which pretty much immediately discredits him. He's not a smart man, or he wouldn't be writing the stuff he's writing. Don't listen to him.
Other ideas to keep you sane while the Cardinals win the World Series:
*Keep the TV off ESPN
*Avoid FOX if at all neccessary
*Don't read anything not coming out of St. Louis, and even then take precaution when reading Bryan Burwell articles
*Daydream of hanging curve balls thrown by Tiger pitchers
*Remimber that Albert Pujols, Chris Carpenter, and Jeff Suppan are all on your side
*And think about the Chicago Cubs
Game Two set to go. Kenny Rogers vs. Jeff Weaver. My prediction, Tigers 17-1. They win it in five. Jeter gets game winning hit and Curt Schilling has miracle outing with painted red sock out of the bullpen. Roger Clemens goes 5-5 from the plate for the Tigers in their DH spot. Bud Selig stands up and applaudes. Fox shows edited clip of Joe Torre and Alex Rodriguez hugging in World Series celebration.
No, seriously.
You have to wonder how long its going to take for an AL Manager to believe that Albert Pujols is for real. It's pretty much the same story time and time again when it comes to interleague play. Managers and pitchers alike think they see guys like Albert Pujols all the time, and the act of putting him on base with a base empty seems far-fetched to them. They think that since he plays in the National League he's not really all that good, just another one of the boys. Well, cheers to Justin Verlander and Jim Leyland. Pujols did it again.
But the big story here isn't Albert Pujols. Its rookie pitcher Anthony Reyes providing 8 innings of one run ball, a Jeff Suppan-esqe performance. All the critics will tell you that it was because Detroit had the week off, they were rusty. The credit will fall Anthony Reyes way very limitly. But it was pitching, and not the week off, that held the Tigers at bay. You can usually tell within the first two inning if Reyes will have his stuff. If he's letting balls rise in the strike zone, then be careful and keep him on a short leash. If he's hitting his locations, which he was last night, then be careful if you're the opposing team. I believe Reyes has earned himself another start in this world series, *if neccessary, of course.
*Did anyone notice Fox's oopsy last night during the broadcast??? At a comercial break, a World Series ticket stub was located near the top of the screen. It read: World Series Game 1. Mets v. Tigers. No joke. I must credit my friend, Andy Arnzen, on the discovery.
To answer a comment from "onetickedoffredbirdfan," I too get extremely frustrated with the lack of credit given to the St. Louis Cardinals. But its the way it is, and all we can do is keep winning ballgames. I researched your article, read it, and the first thing I noticed was that it was written by a guy with the last name of Schmuck - which pretty much immediately discredits him. He's not a smart man, or he wouldn't be writing the stuff he's writing. Don't listen to him.
Other ideas to keep you sane while the Cardinals win the World Series:
*Keep the TV off ESPN
*Avoid FOX if at all neccessary
*Don't read anything not coming out of St. Louis, and even then take precaution when reading Bryan Burwell articles
*Daydream of hanging curve balls thrown by Tiger pitchers
*Remimber that Albert Pujols, Chris Carpenter, and Jeff Suppan are all on your side
*And think about the Chicago Cubs
Game Two set to go. Kenny Rogers vs. Jeff Weaver. My prediction, Tigers 17-1. They win it in five. Jeter gets game winning hit and Curt Schilling has miracle outing with painted red sock out of the bullpen. Roger Clemens goes 5-5 from the plate for the Tigers in their DH spot. Bud Selig stands up and applaudes. Fox shows edited clip of Joe Torre and Alex Rodriguez hugging in World Series celebration.
No, seriously.
Friday, October 20, 2006
Gettin' JACKED UP for Saturday in Missouri
The pigskin boys from Columbia play host to Kansas State, a once powerhouse in college football, during the Homecoming showdown Saturday at Faurot Field. This should be an interesting game, considering Missouri is coming off it's first loss of the season and is back at home after two consecutive weekends in the heart of Texas.
Also taking place on Saturday is the much-anticipated Game 1 of the World Series where the Detroit Tigers play host to your and I's favorite, the St. Louis Redbirds. I look forward to providing much insight on this blog during the series, and I look forward to sharing my thoughts and opinions with you as we continue our quest for the title.
A few things to think about while Saturdays hoopla takes place:
First, concerning Missouri Football:
*I think you will see an absolute blowout take center stage at Faurot. I'm expecting Chase Daniels to get big on KStates' defense and lead the Tigers to a 20+ point victory to the delight of the home crowd.
*Missouri's defense has dropped from #1 in the nation to #17 after their two week stint in Texas. They are finally showing a few holes in the pass coverage, and if you watched last weeks game then you understand that we have no way of stopping a tailback that weighs over 250 pounds. The Tiger defense looks quick to me, but not overpowering. I would expect KState to run the ball north and south instead of trying to get to the edges against this defense. If Missouri can stop them up the middle, then the game is in hand. Chase Daniel will do his part.
And concerning the Cardinals:
*I would assume that the rookie Anthony Reyes will be throwing in game 1 tomorrow evening. This makes the most sense to me, although I would never doubt Tony no matter what he chooses. If you go with Reyes, then everybody will be on normal rest for the next three games. And quite frankly, it's not like Reyes has had terrible outings over his last two starts. It's a lot of pressure on the kid, but our rookies seem like they can handle the pressure. (Adam Wainwright was a shining star last night once he settled down.) This way Weaver goes in game 2, on the road where's he been spectacular, and Carp and Suppan start the series at home on normal rest.
*I know we said the same thing last series, but wouldn't it be interesting if the Cardinals can get one of two in Detroit, and then come home with Carp, Soup, and the reborn Weaver for games 3,4,5. Nice thought, huh?
* It will be interesting to see who gets the starts this week in the field for the Cardinals. Preston Wilson has come up with big hits at times but has also looked terrible during other at bats. Juan Encarnacion is hitting great without runners in scoring position but is struggling when the pressure is on. Scott Rolen continues to be a mystery, a couple big hits over the last few nights should keep him on board at third base but you can't look past his poor performance in the NLDS, and the beginning of the NLCS. Scott Spiezio is hit or miss, bottom line. He looked foolish watching strike three float by in Game 7, but on the other hand you had the sense he was going to hit a homerun. So Taguchi continues to be a pleasant surprise off the bench, and I think LaRussa would do best to keep him there. John Rodriguez has looked essentially worthless so far this postseason, and I'm wondering if he will even be on the roster for the Series.
*Probably the most important piece to the puzzle for the Cardinals when it comes to their lineup is whether or not Scott Rolen is hitting the ball. Personally, I think you need to keep him in the lineup at all times. He's a cornerstone at third base defensively, and it seems he's found a way to come up with big hits at crucial times for the Cardinals in the past. I think he may have made ammends with LaRussa after game 7. The camera caught Rolen running up to LaRussa after the game, hugging him, putting two hands on LaRussa's face, and saying "I'm Sorry." This is a step in the right direction.
Congratulations to Yadi, Yadi, Yadi. Kudos to an amazing Jeff Suppan. Thumbs up to Scott Rolen for sticking with it. Big UPS to LaRussa for being a stud. So long to Carlos Beltran, as far as I'm concerned all the damage he's done in the past to the Cardinals means nothing after looking at strike 3 last night. Happy offseason to the annoying Jose Reyes, what's he going to do without a camera to smile at? And to the lovely New York Mets fans: keep BELIEVIN'. Maybe someday $400 million dollars split between two teams in one city will finally win you a World Championship. Until then, keep spending.
Happy Weekend to all!!! Go Tigers!. Go Birds!
Also taking place on Saturday is the much-anticipated Game 1 of the World Series where the Detroit Tigers play host to your and I's favorite, the St. Louis Redbirds. I look forward to providing much insight on this blog during the series, and I look forward to sharing my thoughts and opinions with you as we continue our quest for the title.
A few things to think about while Saturdays hoopla takes place:
First, concerning Missouri Football:
*I think you will see an absolute blowout take center stage at Faurot. I'm expecting Chase Daniels to get big on KStates' defense and lead the Tigers to a 20+ point victory to the delight of the home crowd.
*Missouri's defense has dropped from #1 in the nation to #17 after their two week stint in Texas. They are finally showing a few holes in the pass coverage, and if you watched last weeks game then you understand that we have no way of stopping a tailback that weighs over 250 pounds. The Tiger defense looks quick to me, but not overpowering. I would expect KState to run the ball north and south instead of trying to get to the edges against this defense. If Missouri can stop them up the middle, then the game is in hand. Chase Daniel will do his part.
And concerning the Cardinals:
*I would assume that the rookie Anthony Reyes will be throwing in game 1 tomorrow evening. This makes the most sense to me, although I would never doubt Tony no matter what he chooses. If you go with Reyes, then everybody will be on normal rest for the next three games. And quite frankly, it's not like Reyes has had terrible outings over his last two starts. It's a lot of pressure on the kid, but our rookies seem like they can handle the pressure. (Adam Wainwright was a shining star last night once he settled down.) This way Weaver goes in game 2, on the road where's he been spectacular, and Carp and Suppan start the series at home on normal rest.
*I know we said the same thing last series, but wouldn't it be interesting if the Cardinals can get one of two in Detroit, and then come home with Carp, Soup, and the reborn Weaver for games 3,4,5. Nice thought, huh?
* It will be interesting to see who gets the starts this week in the field for the Cardinals. Preston Wilson has come up with big hits at times but has also looked terrible during other at bats. Juan Encarnacion is hitting great without runners in scoring position but is struggling when the pressure is on. Scott Rolen continues to be a mystery, a couple big hits over the last few nights should keep him on board at third base but you can't look past his poor performance in the NLDS, and the beginning of the NLCS. Scott Spiezio is hit or miss, bottom line. He looked foolish watching strike three float by in Game 7, but on the other hand you had the sense he was going to hit a homerun. So Taguchi continues to be a pleasant surprise off the bench, and I think LaRussa would do best to keep him there. John Rodriguez has looked essentially worthless so far this postseason, and I'm wondering if he will even be on the roster for the Series.
*Probably the most important piece to the puzzle for the Cardinals when it comes to their lineup is whether or not Scott Rolen is hitting the ball. Personally, I think you need to keep him in the lineup at all times. He's a cornerstone at third base defensively, and it seems he's found a way to come up with big hits at crucial times for the Cardinals in the past. I think he may have made ammends with LaRussa after game 7. The camera caught Rolen running up to LaRussa after the game, hugging him, putting two hands on LaRussa's face, and saying "I'm Sorry." This is a step in the right direction.
Congratulations to Yadi, Yadi, Yadi. Kudos to an amazing Jeff Suppan. Thumbs up to Scott Rolen for sticking with it. Big UPS to LaRussa for being a stud. So long to Carlos Beltran, as far as I'm concerned all the damage he's done in the past to the Cardinals means nothing after looking at strike 3 last night. Happy offseason to the annoying Jose Reyes, what's he going to do without a camera to smile at? And to the lovely New York Mets fans: keep BELIEVIN'. Maybe someday $400 million dollars split between two teams in one city will finally win you a World Championship. Until then, keep spending.
Happy Weekend to all!!! Go Tigers!. Go Birds!
Thursday, October 19, 2006
(I'll Give You) TWO MINUTES (to FIRE Bryan Burwell)
If this was Nazi Germany, Bryan Burwell would be disposed of in the worst way possible. If this was Stalin's Russia, Bryan Burwell would no longer have a voice. If this country was in any way communist, Bryan Burwell would no longer be a part of it. If this was ancient England, Bryan Burwell would be in a closed up, unlit cellar somewhere. Because in all those countries at those times, you didn't speak against your leader. You didn't speak out against your president. And you sure as heck didn't question your King.
ENTER AMERICA.
The Land of Freedom. The Land of Free Speech. The Land of Ignorance.
Refer to any Shakespeare play and you'll understand that speaking against your king meant immediate banishment. Not here, not in America. And Bryan Burwell, you slimy ball of opinion, you've done just that. You've walked right up to the big red chair, in the gigantic gold-plated room, and looked our King right in the eye and basically told him "You're not good enough."
You're a sportswriter. He's Albert Pujols. You're trying to make easy money. He's trying to bring salvation to all those starving for a world championship in St. Louis. You're a greedy servant asking for more. He's your King giving you more.
And you just have to keep asking, don't you?
It's not good enough for you that King Albert is the former MVP, and most likely the current MVP. It's not good enough for you that King Albert has finished in the top five in the National League for 2006 in runs, homeruns, runs batted in, total bases, on base percentage, slugging percentage, and batting average. It's not good enough that he's ONLY batting .343 in the postseason, and in the top five in runs, hits, homeruns, total bases, on base percentage, and slugging percentage in the National League.
It's not good enough for you, is it? So instead of singing his praises (like you never have unless you're trying to make up for something stupid you said in an earlier article, as was the case this week) you decided to bash him about his poor attitude in the clubhouse. Don't worry that his Uncle, and seven-year guardian, died last week. Your words were simple: "I saw a dignified Joe Dumars win the NBA Finals MVP award days after his father passed away. I saw an intense and serene Michael Jordan win an NBA title, then turn into an uncontrollably sobbing mess as he realized his murdered father wasn't there to share this moment with him."
Bryan Burwell. Who cares what you've seen? Who cares about how other great athletes handle tragedies? Who cares whether or not you like or don't like Albert Pujols in a somber mood? We don't attack you when you lose a loved one. We don't compare the way you handle a tragedy to the way Woody Paige and Bernie Miklasz handle tragedies.
I know it's your job to write about sports and athletes. But there are some things you leave alone. We're used to seeing you bash Albert Pujols in the media. We're use to seeing you play the race card every chance you get. We're all getting the sense that you're waiting for Albert Pujols to get busted with something illegal so that you can say "I told you so" and grab some facetime on the national media.
Pujols doesn't need your help to become determined. And don't ever, EVER, EVER AGAIN compare Albert Pujols to Barry Bonds.
Save it, Burwell. Get off the King's case, especially when it involves a family tragedy. And please don't apologize to the fans of St. Louis any more, we're sick of it.
ENTER AMERICA.
The Land of Freedom. The Land of Free Speech. The Land of Ignorance.
Refer to any Shakespeare play and you'll understand that speaking against your king meant immediate banishment. Not here, not in America. And Bryan Burwell, you slimy ball of opinion, you've done just that. You've walked right up to the big red chair, in the gigantic gold-plated room, and looked our King right in the eye and basically told him "You're not good enough."
You're a sportswriter. He's Albert Pujols. You're trying to make easy money. He's trying to bring salvation to all those starving for a world championship in St. Louis. You're a greedy servant asking for more. He's your King giving you more.
And you just have to keep asking, don't you?
It's not good enough for you that King Albert is the former MVP, and most likely the current MVP. It's not good enough for you that King Albert has finished in the top five in the National League for 2006 in runs, homeruns, runs batted in, total bases, on base percentage, slugging percentage, and batting average. It's not good enough that he's ONLY batting .343 in the postseason, and in the top five in runs, hits, homeruns, total bases, on base percentage, and slugging percentage in the National League.
It's not good enough for you, is it? So instead of singing his praises (like you never have unless you're trying to make up for something stupid you said in an earlier article, as was the case this week) you decided to bash him about his poor attitude in the clubhouse. Don't worry that his Uncle, and seven-year guardian, died last week. Your words were simple: "I saw a dignified Joe Dumars win the NBA Finals MVP award days after his father passed away. I saw an intense and serene Michael Jordan win an NBA title, then turn into an uncontrollably sobbing mess as he realized his murdered father wasn't there to share this moment with him."
Bryan Burwell. Who cares what you've seen? Who cares about how other great athletes handle tragedies? Who cares whether or not you like or don't like Albert Pujols in a somber mood? We don't attack you when you lose a loved one. We don't compare the way you handle a tragedy to the way Woody Paige and Bernie Miklasz handle tragedies.
I know it's your job to write about sports and athletes. But there are some things you leave alone. We're used to seeing you bash Albert Pujols in the media. We're use to seeing you play the race card every chance you get. We're all getting the sense that you're waiting for Albert Pujols to get busted with something illegal so that you can say "I told you so" and grab some facetime on the national media.
Pujols doesn't need your help to become determined. And don't ever, EVER, EVER AGAIN compare Albert Pujols to Barry Bonds.
Save it, Burwell. Get off the King's case, especially when it involves a family tragedy. And please don't apologize to the fans of St. Louis any more, we're sick of it.
Sunday, October 15, 2006
St. Louis Quick Whips from Sunday
I'm with Mark. We need witnesses.
We're specializing in St. Louis sports on this blog, so I want insight, opinion, and analysis on Rams football and Cardinals baseball as we head into game 4 tonight, and following that roller coaster loss for the Rams earlier today.
Lets recap last night's Cardinals victory. Jeff Suppan hits a homerun off Steve Trachsel in the 2nd inning and then proceeds to go 8 scoreless. For those of you who didn't happen to read every possible thing on the internet about last nights game, here are a few quick stats concerning it.
*Last year Jeff Suppan hit a homerun in the regular season, that homerun was parked off, none other than, Steve Trachsel.
*There have only been three pitchers in history to go 8 scoreless and hit a homerun. Bucky Walters of the Cincinnati Reds did it 1940. Jesse Haines accomplished the feat in 1926 for Cardinals. And now Jeff Suppan has etched his name on the ribbon as well.
*Cardinal great Bob Gibson had similar feats in his time. Not only did he toss a few postseason scoreless outings in his career, but he also hit a post season homerun twice during his tenure. However, Gibby never did the both on the same night.
*And in case you forgot two years ago when Suppan went in game 7 of the NLCS against Roger Clemens, which was probably a more impressive and clutch victory than last nights win. (Hint to Cardinals Management: SIGN THIS MAN.)
Now concerning tonight, I'm sure you've seen the numbers. Reyes the Rook against Oliver Perez. Neither one of them is a lock to shut down the opposing team but I'd rather have Reyes going for me than Perez.
So what about you guys? What's your thoughts on last nights game, and give me some predictions for tonight.
-----------
Rams Defense Collapses
Well, for about the first 27 minutes of the second half Sunday against the Seahawks the Rams looked like they didn't know right from left. And all of a sudden, that Rams defense comes out with another amazing turnover late in the game. And next, the Rams offense quit piddling around with the fancy plays and Bulger hooked up with Torry Holt on a 67 yard bomb for their third TD connection of the game (If you saw the play, then you understand that I can't explain it in words. If you didn't see the play, then you need to tune in to your local football channel and watch it until you see the play.)
And then you had to sit there, watch, and agonize as the Seahawks offense marched right back down into field goal range, with no timeouts, on the Rams prevent defense (which never works). Josh Brown nailed the 51 yarder and the rest is in the books, Seattle leads the Rams by a half a game in the division.
What happened here? The defense goes soft late in the game after recording four sacks when applying pressure. And previous to the last drive and 67 yard Bulger/Holt connection the Rams had only 46 total offensive yards in the second half.
Witnesses?
We're specializing in St. Louis sports on this blog, so I want insight, opinion, and analysis on Rams football and Cardinals baseball as we head into game 4 tonight, and following that roller coaster loss for the Rams earlier today.
Lets recap last night's Cardinals victory. Jeff Suppan hits a homerun off Steve Trachsel in the 2nd inning and then proceeds to go 8 scoreless. For those of you who didn't happen to read every possible thing on the internet about last nights game, here are a few quick stats concerning it.
*Last year Jeff Suppan hit a homerun in the regular season, that homerun was parked off, none other than, Steve Trachsel.
*There have only been three pitchers in history to go 8 scoreless and hit a homerun. Bucky Walters of the Cincinnati Reds did it 1940. Jesse Haines accomplished the feat in 1926 for Cardinals. And now Jeff Suppan has etched his name on the ribbon as well.
*Cardinal great Bob Gibson had similar feats in his time. Not only did he toss a few postseason scoreless outings in his career, but he also hit a post season homerun twice during his tenure. However, Gibby never did the both on the same night.
*And in case you forgot two years ago when Suppan went in game 7 of the NLCS against Roger Clemens, which was probably a more impressive and clutch victory than last nights win. (Hint to Cardinals Management: SIGN THIS MAN.)
Now concerning tonight, I'm sure you've seen the numbers. Reyes the Rook against Oliver Perez. Neither one of them is a lock to shut down the opposing team but I'd rather have Reyes going for me than Perez.
So what about you guys? What's your thoughts on last nights game, and give me some predictions for tonight.
-----------
Rams Defense Collapses
Well, for about the first 27 minutes of the second half Sunday against the Seahawks the Rams looked like they didn't know right from left. And all of a sudden, that Rams defense comes out with another amazing turnover late in the game. And next, the Rams offense quit piddling around with the fancy plays and Bulger hooked up with Torry Holt on a 67 yard bomb for their third TD connection of the game (If you saw the play, then you understand that I can't explain it in words. If you didn't see the play, then you need to tune in to your local football channel and watch it until you see the play.)
And then you had to sit there, watch, and agonize as the Seahawks offense marched right back down into field goal range, with no timeouts, on the Rams prevent defense (which never works). Josh Brown nailed the 51 yarder and the rest is in the books, Seattle leads the Rams by a half a game in the division.
What happened here? The defense goes soft late in the game after recording four sacks when applying pressure. And previous to the last drive and 67 yard Bulger/Holt connection the Rams had only 46 total offensive yards in the second half.
Witnesses?
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Live from Game 3
I'm live with you from Prescott Lane in Columbia, Missouri for detailed analysis of game 3 between the Cardinals and the Mets. I take seat amongst six other Cardinal fanatics all dressed in red from head to toe, and I plan on bringing you analysis, reaction, and possibly a few classic stories all told during the course of the game.
It's 7:14 right now and the commercial break is over and the first pitch is set to be thrown.
Pregame predictions:
Matt Unverferth: Cardinals 5, Mets 4
Luke Arnzen: Cardinals 7, Mets 4
Ryan Roggow: Cardinals 8, Mets 3
Tyler Banken: Cardinals 4, Mets 3
Scott Wittenborn: Cardinals 2, Mets 1
Jeff Fahrner: Cardinals 8, Mets 0
Myself: Cardinals 6, Mets 3
We're set to go. Suppan takes the ball...
After 1:
*Jeff Suppan isn't scared of anyone.
*To quote Mike Shannon, "I can't believe these umpires, Major League Baseball wants New York to win, the media wants New York to win, and the umpires want New York to win. I always said that you have to go out and beat all 13 of them but in this case the Cardinals have to beat all 15 of them (there are six umpires in the playoffs)." Its seems that this is obvious after the clear balk that lead to Eckstein's pick-off and Fox's continuous babying of any team New York.
*At the beginning of the season, do you think Scott Spiezio thought he would find himself the most popular person in Missouri? Get your rat tails out, I got a feeling that's all Soup needs.
*Steve Trachsel looks like his usual self.
*"Swing, Yadi, swing." -An out of town affiliate, know as Butch.
*Cardinals lead 2-0 after a 28 pitch, 18 minute inning.
Second Inning:
*Soup looks like a King, Jose Valentin doesn't (1-17 thus far in the postseason).
*(Suppan homers to left, eliminating Scott Wittenborn from the prediction pool) This place goes nuts, it reminded me of Tom Cruise on David Letterman. Soup still looks like a King. You really can't say enough about Suppan hitting a lead-off homerun off Steve Trachsel, it's just simply incredible.
*(Pujols walks on four straight pitches, none of them close, to load the bases with no one out) Who is Steve Trachsel more scared of: Albert Pujols or Mark McGwire?
*(Trachsel gets replaced by former Cardinal Darren Oliver) As Trachsel walks off, "well, there goes their number 3 starter, and our number 3 started just teed off on him. And things won't get any better with Darren Oliver coming in." -Fahrner.
*Cardinals get three more, lead 5-0 (which eliminates Tyler Banked from the prediction pool as well). We could have used a few more, but I guess that will do. The Mets are scared and Fox is getting irritated. We got to the third.
Third Inning:
*Jose Reyes is fast, but Jeff Suppan is better.
*A fairly anti-climatic inning. Although Yadi looks like he's making a bid to keep his job after a sour season. His post season is going about ten times better, and a homer in that situation would have made everyone forget the previous 6 months.
*5-0, Birds.
Fourth Inning:
*Is is safe to say that Jeff Suppan is a big game pitcher? He continues to roll.
*Banken: "My grandpa hates Tony LaRussa." Fahrner: "Is your grandpa Steve Kline?"
*Darren Oliver actually looks descent. He's pitched two shutout innings. The Cardinals need more runs because you can't trust this Mets lineup no matter how good Suppan looks.
*5-0, Birds.
Fifth Inning:
*Once again, Jose Valentin doesn't look like King, Preston Wilson does. Way to get him Preston! Fahrner: "Look at that skull cap. When that hat came off, you knew he was going to be out."
*Valentin gets tossed at second, Suppan gets Endy Chavez to pop out, and Soup goes scoreless through five. He also homered in the second, in case you forgot.
*(Soup bunts Rolen and Ronnie over) Fahrner: "You think Suppan is trying to figure out why LaRussa took the bat out of his hands?"
*Eckstein can't get them in, Cards lead 5-0 heading into the sixth.
Sixth Inning:
*Its nice to get Reyes out.
*I think the Mets should probably trade LoDuca and call up Joe Hietpas from double A Binghamton. Hietpas has just as good of chance against Suppan as LoDuca does. Between Suppan and Scotty Ballgame, neither one of them gets a hit. (Sorry Joe) Disclaimer: Joe Hieptas is a relative of mine, so I had to give him a plug. He's ben struggling with the bat, but his glove puts Mike Matheny to shame.
*Well, it's a good thing Soup can pitch because the Cardinals bats have gone cold. Birds lead 5-0, into the seventh.
Seventh Inning:
*(Two outs, Wright up) Fahrner: "STRRRRRIKKKKEEE. Get ahead fastball. Most exciting play in baseball."
*Rolen continues his clinic at third. Soup continues his clinic on the mound. Cardinals continue to make Fox mad. And that feels good.
*(We're heading to the bottom of the seventh) Andy Arnzen, an affiliate coming to us from Busch Stadium, says "the next best thing to the possibility of Scott Spiezio wearing a skull cap next game is the fact that I'm sitting right next to Steven Tyler...and his hot daughter. I think its his daughter."
*It's a good thing Darren Oliver didn't start this game.
Eighth Inning:
*Six outs to go. Can Soup-a Dupa do it?
*The discussion here drifts towards whether or not you send Suppan out in the ninth if he can get through 8 scoreless.
*Ronnie Belliard looks like Michael Jordan when he fades away in those double play ball attempts.
*Fahrner: "This has got to be the greatest outing of Darren Oliver's career." Arnzen: "Best outing ever for Suppan also." Fahrner: "No. This is just a regular, ho-hum outing for Soup."
*BLUES WIN!!! Two in a row. Radek Dvorak from Lee Stempniak at 13:42 of the third. The Blues are starting to play some hockey. Ok, fine, we ONLY beat the Blackhawks by one goal and it was late in the third. Still...two in a row.
*Arnzen: "Is (Jason) Marquis even allowed in the dugout?"
*Attakid Soup. 8 scoreless. It's in the humble opinion of this blogger to send him out in the ninth, with the bullpen ready to go. That said, I'm in the minority with that opinion. I guess LaRussa agrees with the majority, Soup out. We go to the ninth. Cards 5-0.
Ninth Inning:
*Josh Kinney comes into the ballgame to face the heart of the Mets lineup. This shoud be a cakewalk. A rookie vs. the heart of this lineup? Good luck Mets. Pull up the covers, this game is over.
*Jose Reyes up. Kinney set to go. Fahrner: "Jose Reyes doesn't know which end is up right now." 2-2 count. Here comes that slider baby, I'll bet on it. One down, two to go. (Pop up to Taguchi)
*LoDuca up. Hietpas would look good right here, wouldn't he? Beltran lurks on deck, and I think it's safe to say that every Cardinal fan loves the fact that he can't beat us in this situation. 1-2 to LoDuca. Popped it up, Edmonds under it. Two outs.
*Fox is sweating. Umpires are wondering what they did wrong.
*Two down. Beltran up. Bottom of the ninth. 1-1 count. "COME ON, BABY!!!"
"Fredbird looks good." - Banken. HOW ABOUT JIMMY!!!!!!!!!!!!
Good night from Columbia. Let's get 'em tomorrow. Go REYES!!!!
Early Predictions for Game 4.
Banken: Cardinals 6, Mets 4
Arnzen: Cardinals 9, Mets 7
Roggow: Cardinals 7, Mets 2
U-Man: Cardinals 9, Mets 5
Wittenborn: "I don't make my prediction 'till game time. It's all about feeling."
Fahrner: "I don't know why you guys aren't giving the rookie any love. The rookies have been doing it the entire postseason. 8-0 BIRDS!!!"
Myself: I'm with Fahrner.
fun havin' ya.
It's 7:14 right now and the commercial break is over and the first pitch is set to be thrown.
Pregame predictions:
Matt Unverferth: Cardinals 5, Mets 4
Luke Arnzen: Cardinals 7, Mets 4
Ryan Roggow: Cardinals 8, Mets 3
Tyler Banken: Cardinals 4, Mets 3
Scott Wittenborn: Cardinals 2, Mets 1
Jeff Fahrner: Cardinals 8, Mets 0
Myself: Cardinals 6, Mets 3
We're set to go. Suppan takes the ball...
After 1:
*Jeff Suppan isn't scared of anyone.
*To quote Mike Shannon, "I can't believe these umpires, Major League Baseball wants New York to win, the media wants New York to win, and the umpires want New York to win. I always said that you have to go out and beat all 13 of them but in this case the Cardinals have to beat all 15 of them (there are six umpires in the playoffs)." Its seems that this is obvious after the clear balk that lead to Eckstein's pick-off and Fox's continuous babying of any team New York.
*At the beginning of the season, do you think Scott Spiezio thought he would find himself the most popular person in Missouri? Get your rat tails out, I got a feeling that's all Soup needs.
*Steve Trachsel looks like his usual self.
*"Swing, Yadi, swing." -An out of town affiliate, know as Butch.
*Cardinals lead 2-0 after a 28 pitch, 18 minute inning.
Second Inning:
*Soup looks like a King, Jose Valentin doesn't (1-17 thus far in the postseason).
*(Suppan homers to left, eliminating Scott Wittenborn from the prediction pool) This place goes nuts, it reminded me of Tom Cruise on David Letterman. Soup still looks like a King. You really can't say enough about Suppan hitting a lead-off homerun off Steve Trachsel, it's just simply incredible.
*(Pujols walks on four straight pitches, none of them close, to load the bases with no one out) Who is Steve Trachsel more scared of: Albert Pujols or Mark McGwire?
*(Trachsel gets replaced by former Cardinal Darren Oliver) As Trachsel walks off, "well, there goes their number 3 starter, and our number 3 started just teed off on him. And things won't get any better with Darren Oliver coming in." -Fahrner.
*Cardinals get three more, lead 5-0 (which eliminates Tyler Banked from the prediction pool as well). We could have used a few more, but I guess that will do. The Mets are scared and Fox is getting irritated. We got to the third.
Third Inning:
*Jose Reyes is fast, but Jeff Suppan is better.
*A fairly anti-climatic inning. Although Yadi looks like he's making a bid to keep his job after a sour season. His post season is going about ten times better, and a homer in that situation would have made everyone forget the previous 6 months.
*5-0, Birds.
Fourth Inning:
*Is is safe to say that Jeff Suppan is a big game pitcher? He continues to roll.
*Banken: "My grandpa hates Tony LaRussa." Fahrner: "Is your grandpa Steve Kline?"
*Darren Oliver actually looks descent. He's pitched two shutout innings. The Cardinals need more runs because you can't trust this Mets lineup no matter how good Suppan looks.
*5-0, Birds.
Fifth Inning:
*Once again, Jose Valentin doesn't look like King, Preston Wilson does. Way to get him Preston! Fahrner: "Look at that skull cap. When that hat came off, you knew he was going to be out."
*Valentin gets tossed at second, Suppan gets Endy Chavez to pop out, and Soup goes scoreless through five. He also homered in the second, in case you forgot.
*(Soup bunts Rolen and Ronnie over) Fahrner: "You think Suppan is trying to figure out why LaRussa took the bat out of his hands?"
*Eckstein can't get them in, Cards lead 5-0 heading into the sixth.
Sixth Inning:
*Its nice to get Reyes out.
*I think the Mets should probably trade LoDuca and call up Joe Hietpas from double A Binghamton. Hietpas has just as good of chance against Suppan as LoDuca does. Between Suppan and Scotty Ballgame, neither one of them gets a hit. (Sorry Joe) Disclaimer: Joe Hieptas is a relative of mine, so I had to give him a plug. He's ben struggling with the bat, but his glove puts Mike Matheny to shame.
*Well, it's a good thing Soup can pitch because the Cardinals bats have gone cold. Birds lead 5-0, into the seventh.
Seventh Inning:
*(Two outs, Wright up) Fahrner: "STRRRRRIKKKKEEE. Get ahead fastball. Most exciting play in baseball."
*Rolen continues his clinic at third. Soup continues his clinic on the mound. Cardinals continue to make Fox mad. And that feels good.
*(We're heading to the bottom of the seventh) Andy Arnzen, an affiliate coming to us from Busch Stadium, says "the next best thing to the possibility of Scott Spiezio wearing a skull cap next game is the fact that I'm sitting right next to Steven Tyler...and his hot daughter. I think its his daughter."
*It's a good thing Darren Oliver didn't start this game.
Eighth Inning:
*Six outs to go. Can Soup-a Dupa do it?
*The discussion here drifts towards whether or not you send Suppan out in the ninth if he can get through 8 scoreless.
*Ronnie Belliard looks like Michael Jordan when he fades away in those double play ball attempts.
*Fahrner: "This has got to be the greatest outing of Darren Oliver's career." Arnzen: "Best outing ever for Suppan also." Fahrner: "No. This is just a regular, ho-hum outing for Soup."
*BLUES WIN!!! Two in a row. Radek Dvorak from Lee Stempniak at 13:42 of the third. The Blues are starting to play some hockey. Ok, fine, we ONLY beat the Blackhawks by one goal and it was late in the third. Still...two in a row.
*Arnzen: "Is (Jason) Marquis even allowed in the dugout?"
*Attakid Soup. 8 scoreless. It's in the humble opinion of this blogger to send him out in the ninth, with the bullpen ready to go. That said, I'm in the minority with that opinion. I guess LaRussa agrees with the majority, Soup out. We go to the ninth. Cards 5-0.
Ninth Inning:
*Josh Kinney comes into the ballgame to face the heart of the Mets lineup. This shoud be a cakewalk. A rookie vs. the heart of this lineup? Good luck Mets. Pull up the covers, this game is over.
*Jose Reyes up. Kinney set to go. Fahrner: "Jose Reyes doesn't know which end is up right now." 2-2 count. Here comes that slider baby, I'll bet on it. One down, two to go. (Pop up to Taguchi)
*LoDuca up. Hietpas would look good right here, wouldn't he? Beltran lurks on deck, and I think it's safe to say that every Cardinal fan loves the fact that he can't beat us in this situation. 1-2 to LoDuca. Popped it up, Edmonds under it. Two outs.
*Fox is sweating. Umpires are wondering what they did wrong.
*Two down. Beltran up. Bottom of the ninth. 1-1 count. "COME ON, BABY!!!"
"Fredbird looks good." - Banken. HOW ABOUT JIMMY!!!!!!!!!!!!
Good night from Columbia. Let's get 'em tomorrow. Go REYES!!!!
Early Predictions for Game 4.
Banken: Cardinals 6, Mets 4
Arnzen: Cardinals 9, Mets 7
Roggow: Cardinals 7, Mets 2
U-Man: Cardinals 9, Mets 5
Wittenborn: "I don't make my prediction 'till game time. It's all about feeling."
Fahrner: "I don't know why you guys aren't giving the rookie any love. The rookies have been doing it the entire postseason. 8-0 BIRDS!!!"
Myself: I'm with Fahrner.
fun havin' ya.
The Mo-Town Boys in Texas
So I said it in my weekly "Two Minutes" this week and I'm sticking with it despite Missouri's loss at Texas A&M this week. After the first two drives on Saturday, it looked as though this Missouri offense could stone Ohio State's defense. Chase Daniel completed his first 8 passes, Tony Temple was dodging Aggie defenders, and Missouri's defense had a big stand inside their own five with a first and goal.
Then all of a sudden, Chase Daniel has a helmet problem and has to sit out a down which leads to Brandon Coleman looking like a third grader on his only touch of the game (and probably the season) at quarterback. Tony Temple takes a rest which leads to Marcus Woods fumbling the football, and all of a sudden the Tigers are in a dog fight going into the second half.
Once they got there, it looked the old Missouri Tigers of last year - especially the horrific fourth quarter. Gary Pinkel tried to take over the game with his play calling, and, in turn, essentially stole the game out of the hands of Chase Daniel. And during those moments, every Mizzou football fan in the land started getting that feeling in their gut...that one of "oh, no. Not again."
Look, I think this team is really good. I think Chase Daniel is winner. I think Will Franklin is going to set records. And I think Tony Temple will probably do the same. And I think this team could have a big time winning record with setbacks against Oklahoma and Nebraska possibly. BUT NONE OF THIS WILL HAPPEN if Gary Pinkel continues his bullying of the offense and tries to steal the game out of the hands of Chase.
Let the boys play, Coach, and you're going to see yourself in a nice bowl game.
*Yes, I know that Mizzou had big turnovers in the first half and that probably cost them the game just as much as the coaching did. But it's much more fun to rip the coach.
Then all of a sudden, Chase Daniel has a helmet problem and has to sit out a down which leads to Brandon Coleman looking like a third grader on his only touch of the game (and probably the season) at quarterback. Tony Temple takes a rest which leads to Marcus Woods fumbling the football, and all of a sudden the Tigers are in a dog fight going into the second half.
Once they got there, it looked the old Missouri Tigers of last year - especially the horrific fourth quarter. Gary Pinkel tried to take over the game with his play calling, and, in turn, essentially stole the game out of the hands of Chase Daniel. And during those moments, every Mizzou football fan in the land started getting that feeling in their gut...that one of "oh, no. Not again."
Look, I think this team is really good. I think Chase Daniel is winner. I think Will Franklin is going to set records. And I think Tony Temple will probably do the same. And I think this team could have a big time winning record with setbacks against Oklahoma and Nebraska possibly. BUT NONE OF THIS WILL HAPPEN if Gary Pinkel continues his bullying of the offense and tries to steal the game out of the hands of Chase.
Let the boys play, Coach, and you're going to see yourself in a nice bowl game.
*Yes, I know that Mizzou had big turnovers in the first half and that probably cost them the game just as much as the coaching did. But it's much more fun to rip the coach.
Thursday, October 12, 2006
TWO MINUTES OF FUNNNNNNN!!!!!!!!!!
Your weekly, quick-witted two minutes of fun starts RIGHT NOW.
*Starring the Cardinals' bullpen as "Are you Kidding me?"
*The St. Louis Blues hockey squad as "Oh, Lordy!"
*St. Louis Ram's Football as "God is Good, God is Great."
*MISSOURI FOOTBALL as "Not Just Another Missouri Sports Ho-Hum Losing Team"
Co-Starring
*The New York Yankees as "The Worst Team an owner can buy."
With your Host: Mr. Daaaaaaaaaaaavvvid UNTERreiner
Hey, hey, happy to be here with all of you today on this chilly, but lovely Thursday afternoon in the midwest of this great state of Missouri. Tonight, ladies and gentlemen, tonight the St. Louis Cardinals will begin their quest for the NLCS title after last night's rainout. For a couple thoughts on the game, let's shoot it over to my good buddy and St. Louis Cardinal's fanatic: Paul Dobbs.
"Well, Dave, to be honest with you I think are chances are a lot better than most people think coming into this series. Our starting pitching matches up, and may even be better than the Mets, and I never thought I would say this about a St. Louis Cardinals team BUT if you can get the game to the bullpen then you might as well say goodnight, kiss your lady on the cheek, and pull the covers up, because IT'S OVER!!!"
Thank you very much Paul. But you're forgetting one thing in all your excitement, THE MET'S LINEUP.
Let's stay on a high note here before we start talking about Danny Hinote (no pun intented) and the St. Louis Blues. We're talking Rams football now with St. Louis football expert, Andy Arnzen. And Andy, I don't think I'm the only one excited about the Seahawks coming to town on Sunday and the possibility of the Cardinals completing the sweep of the Mets to get into the World Series on the same day. Your thoughts:
"Well, Dave, you're not the only one excited that's for sure. I like the way the Cardinals shape up against the Mets also but I do fear that lineup. One person that doesn't scare me however is Carlos Beltran. Now, lets get down to talking about real sports now. And I mean football. This weekend a certain team from a certain city, yes that's right: DA RAMS, will be playing host to the Seattle Seahawks. I'll keep it short and simple Dave, since we only have two minutes here. My prediction is Rams 56, Seahawks 11. Hasselbeck fumbles 6 times inside the red zone. Rams roll."
Thank you Andy for that insight. Bold prediction if I do say so myself. But I do agree that after Sunday the Rams will improve to 5-1 while the Shaun Alexander-less Seahawks will fall to 3-2.
OK, sticking to the theme of St. Louis sports, it's in my humble regret that we must mention that the Blues are not off to the start I thought they would be. However, I did warn you about this. So what's gone wrong, if anything, in the Blues organization? We call in East St. Louis native Jeff Farhner for observation:
"Basically, we look like a bunch of kids out there who have been misguided by their parentals. To boot, three of the top four defensemen are already out with injuries. The bottom line is simple: we have to get our heads out of our butts and play hockey."
Enough said about that.
M-I-Z-Z-O-U R-A-H!!!!
Ok, 6-0. So I promised you a blog if the Tigers started 6-0. I've decided to wait until we start
7-0 by beating another Texas team in Texas this weekend. They have my support, I'm on the bandwagon, I will be watching this weekend, and I don't like Texas. Go Tigers!!! More to come next week. That's a promise.
And last but not least: The New York Yankees. Despite all my desires to bash and criticize another failing Yankee team and to laugh out loud at "The Boss's" ignorance, I must put this ego aside and say simply that losing a teammate (Cory Lidle) is far more important and significant than any baseball game ever. My hat gets tipped to not only his teammates in New York but all of his teammates anywhere he played from preschool all the way to the big leagues. Best wishes to the Lidle family, and to all families who have lost loved ones.
Disclaimer: *This was longer than two minutes. Sorry. But you still had fun.
*Starring the Cardinals' bullpen as "Are you Kidding me?"
*The St. Louis Blues hockey squad as "Oh, Lordy!"
*St. Louis Ram's Football as "God is Good, God is Great."
*MISSOURI FOOTBALL as "Not Just Another Missouri Sports Ho-Hum Losing Team"
Co-Starring
*The New York Yankees as "The Worst Team an owner can buy."
With your Host: Mr. Daaaaaaaaaaaavvvid UNTERreiner
Hey, hey, happy to be here with all of you today on this chilly, but lovely Thursday afternoon in the midwest of this great state of Missouri. Tonight, ladies and gentlemen, tonight the St. Louis Cardinals will begin their quest for the NLCS title after last night's rainout. For a couple thoughts on the game, let's shoot it over to my good buddy and St. Louis Cardinal's fanatic: Paul Dobbs.
"Well, Dave, to be honest with you I think are chances are a lot better than most people think coming into this series. Our starting pitching matches up, and may even be better than the Mets, and I never thought I would say this about a St. Louis Cardinals team BUT if you can get the game to the bullpen then you might as well say goodnight, kiss your lady on the cheek, and pull the covers up, because IT'S OVER!!!"
Thank you very much Paul. But you're forgetting one thing in all your excitement, THE MET'S LINEUP.
Let's stay on a high note here before we start talking about Danny Hinote (no pun intented) and the St. Louis Blues. We're talking Rams football now with St. Louis football expert, Andy Arnzen. And Andy, I don't think I'm the only one excited about the Seahawks coming to town on Sunday and the possibility of the Cardinals completing the sweep of the Mets to get into the World Series on the same day. Your thoughts:
"Well, Dave, you're not the only one excited that's for sure. I like the way the Cardinals shape up against the Mets also but I do fear that lineup. One person that doesn't scare me however is Carlos Beltran. Now, lets get down to talking about real sports now. And I mean football. This weekend a certain team from a certain city, yes that's right: DA RAMS, will be playing host to the Seattle Seahawks. I'll keep it short and simple Dave, since we only have two minutes here. My prediction is Rams 56, Seahawks 11. Hasselbeck fumbles 6 times inside the red zone. Rams roll."
Thank you Andy for that insight. Bold prediction if I do say so myself. But I do agree that after Sunday the Rams will improve to 5-1 while the Shaun Alexander-less Seahawks will fall to 3-2.
OK, sticking to the theme of St. Louis sports, it's in my humble regret that we must mention that the Blues are not off to the start I thought they would be. However, I did warn you about this. So what's gone wrong, if anything, in the Blues organization? We call in East St. Louis native Jeff Farhner for observation:
"Basically, we look like a bunch of kids out there who have been misguided by their parentals. To boot, three of the top four defensemen are already out with injuries. The bottom line is simple: we have to get our heads out of our butts and play hockey."
Enough said about that.
M-I-Z-Z-O-U R-A-H!!!!
Ok, 6-0. So I promised you a blog if the Tigers started 6-0. I've decided to wait until we start
7-0 by beating another Texas team in Texas this weekend. They have my support, I'm on the bandwagon, I will be watching this weekend, and I don't like Texas. Go Tigers!!! More to come next week. That's a promise.
And last but not least: The New York Yankees. Despite all my desires to bash and criticize another failing Yankee team and to laugh out loud at "The Boss's" ignorance, I must put this ego aside and say simply that losing a teammate (Cory Lidle) is far more important and significant than any baseball game ever. My hat gets tipped to not only his teammates in New York but all of his teammates anywhere he played from preschool all the way to the big leagues. Best wishes to the Lidle family, and to all families who have lost loved ones.
Disclaimer: *This was longer than two minutes. Sorry. But you still had fun.
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Blues Set to Begin
They're getting no love from experts, or from the St. Louis Post, but nonetheless the Blues begin their push for the Stanley Cup tomorrow night. And that's what it is, whether or not you think they can do it or not. Lord Stanley awaits and I'm with the experts in saying that I don't think you'll see that silver hunk of hockey floating around St. Louis anytime soon, however I think you do have something to look forward to as the year begins.
Manny Legace won the starting job over Curtis Sanford, and he will looking to prove that his numbers last year weren't a sole reflection of playing in Detroit. Many people in the area who are involved with hockey aren't expecting big things from Legace, despite last year's numbers. I, for one, think he'll be solid if the Blues give him enough of a chance. I think he needs to be the established starter for the first four weeks or so and if things get ugly between now and then, we can start considering Sanford as our new No. 1. But I know what will happen, one bad start for Legace and St. Louis fans will start calling for Sanford. Unfortunate in my book. We should at least give him a chance, and hopefully we will.
In some what of a surprise move, Blues coach Mike Kitchen has announced that second year youngster Lee Stempniak will be starting on the front line for the Blues along with Keith Tkachuk. This leaves former All-Star Bill Guerin on the second line.The Blues could do a number of things at the center position with either Doug Weight holding the top line together or Petr Cajanek. I had heard that it would be Cajanek on the top line and Doug Weight playing with Guerin on the second line, but the STL Post reported today that Weight would be the top-line starter. We'll see how this works out. I think I might like it in the long run but I was looking forward to seeing Guerin and 'Chuckers on the same line, and that may still happen before too long.
Jay McKee starts the year with a bum knee but shouldn't miss any games. From what I understand, he still remains on the top defensive line despite missing a couple preseason games.
We get things fired up tomorrow night at San Jose. Get excited, but don't get too down if the Blues get off to a rough start, they play two legitimate Stanley Cup contenders in the first five games (San Jose and Anaheim).
GOOOO BLUUUUEEESSS
Questions or comments: dunterreiner@semosportsweb.com
Manny Legace won the starting job over Curtis Sanford, and he will looking to prove that his numbers last year weren't a sole reflection of playing in Detroit. Many people in the area who are involved with hockey aren't expecting big things from Legace, despite last year's numbers. I, for one, think he'll be solid if the Blues give him enough of a chance. I think he needs to be the established starter for the first four weeks or so and if things get ugly between now and then, we can start considering Sanford as our new No. 1. But I know what will happen, one bad start for Legace and St. Louis fans will start calling for Sanford. Unfortunate in my book. We should at least give him a chance, and hopefully we will.
In some what of a surprise move, Blues coach Mike Kitchen has announced that second year youngster Lee Stempniak will be starting on the front line for the Blues along with Keith Tkachuk. This leaves former All-Star Bill Guerin on the second line.The Blues could do a number of things at the center position with either Doug Weight holding the top line together or Petr Cajanek. I had heard that it would be Cajanek on the top line and Doug Weight playing with Guerin on the second line, but the STL Post reported today that Weight would be the top-line starter. We'll see how this works out. I think I might like it in the long run but I was looking forward to seeing Guerin and 'Chuckers on the same line, and that may still happen before too long.
Jay McKee starts the year with a bum knee but shouldn't miss any games. From what I understand, he still remains on the top defensive line despite missing a couple preseason games.
We get things fired up tomorrow night at San Jose. Get excited, but don't get too down if the Blues get off to a rough start, they play two legitimate Stanley Cup contenders in the first five games (San Jose and Anaheim).
GOOOO BLUUUUEEESSS
Questions or comments: dunterreiner@semosportsweb.com
Pujols goes BIG; Blues set to begin
As if the last week of the season wasn't enough evidence as to why Albert Pujols should be this year's MVP winner in the National League, he went ahead and made a "just-in-case" showing in last night's game 1 win over the Padres. Not only was it ANOTHER game winning hit/homerun, but it also exemplified how much PHAT Albert means to this ballclub.
I'll be completely honest, I'm happy whether the MVP goes to Pujols or Phillie's slugger Ryan Howard. I think they both deserve it and although I'm a die-hard Redbird fan, I'm still extremely stoked to see a St. Louis boy bangin' in Philly. It seems as though Howard is the real deal, folks. And I think he's legit. I understand the steroid speculation, and I think it's necessary, but I don't believe Howard has done anything wrong. When it comes down to it, this world simply occasionally creates freaks of nature, those rare athletes that seem superhuman. We're talking about two of them right now in Pujols and Howard. (See Also: Lance Armstrong, Babe Ruth, Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Anna Kournikova, and Ricky Bobby)
Despite Howard leading Pujols in both homeruns and RBI, he has failed to do the one thing that Pujols has done, the one thing most important: get his team to the playoffs. In my opinion this singular fact should weigh heaviest on the MVP voting, far above homeruns and RBI's. We should be considering who has lifted their team the furthest. In this case it's Albert Pujols.
Not only is he leading the Cardinals in homeruns and RBI and runs and every other big category there is in baseball, but he's doing the right things at the right times. He's sparking this ballclub.
_______________
All the experts acted as if they were surprised that the Birds manhandled the Padres the way they did on Tuesday afternoon, but I doubt it came to much surprise around the area. This is a good baseball team and I think people understand that here in Cardinal nation. With Carpenter on the hill and a line-up that's old, but still powerful I think we can expect to beat the Padres and scare the Mets in NLCS. (Surely, we'll play the Mets right? Oh Lordy, if not...... then the Dodgers? We've went 7-0 against the Dodga's this year.)
So what happens from here? Weaver takes the mound tomorrow for Game 2. Pujols will be in the lineup. Why Weaver and not Suppan? Because Weaver doesn't know how to pitch in Busch Stadium, so we're letting him pitch in PETCO. Ideally, we could get away with another win in San Diego and have Suppan seal the deal in game 3 back home. I don't think it's far-fetched either, Weaver has been very good on the road and it looks like the Cards may have some life left in them. Weaver against Wells in Game 2. Suppan and Woodrow Wilson in Game 3. If anybody gets on, it's Carp again in Game 4.
Point of Interest: Jason Marquis made the post-season roster.
I'll be completely honest, I'm happy whether the MVP goes to Pujols or Phillie's slugger Ryan Howard. I think they both deserve it and although I'm a die-hard Redbird fan, I'm still extremely stoked to see a St. Louis boy bangin' in Philly. It seems as though Howard is the real deal, folks. And I think he's legit. I understand the steroid speculation, and I think it's necessary, but I don't believe Howard has done anything wrong. When it comes down to it, this world simply occasionally creates freaks of nature, those rare athletes that seem superhuman. We're talking about two of them right now in Pujols and Howard. (See Also: Lance Armstrong, Babe Ruth, Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Anna Kournikova, and Ricky Bobby)
Despite Howard leading Pujols in both homeruns and RBI, he has failed to do the one thing that Pujols has done, the one thing most important: get his team to the playoffs. In my opinion this singular fact should weigh heaviest on the MVP voting, far above homeruns and RBI's. We should be considering who has lifted their team the furthest. In this case it's Albert Pujols.
Not only is he leading the Cardinals in homeruns and RBI and runs and every other big category there is in baseball, but he's doing the right things at the right times. He's sparking this ballclub.
_______________
All the experts acted as if they were surprised that the Birds manhandled the Padres the way they did on Tuesday afternoon, but I doubt it came to much surprise around the area. This is a good baseball team and I think people understand that here in Cardinal nation. With Carpenter on the hill and a line-up that's old, but still powerful I think we can expect to beat the Padres and scare the Mets in NLCS. (Surely, we'll play the Mets right? Oh Lordy, if not...... then the Dodgers? We've went 7-0 against the Dodga's this year.)
So what happens from here? Weaver takes the mound tomorrow for Game 2. Pujols will be in the lineup. Why Weaver and not Suppan? Because Weaver doesn't know how to pitch in Busch Stadium, so we're letting him pitch in PETCO. Ideally, we could get away with another win in San Diego and have Suppan seal the deal in game 3 back home. I don't think it's far-fetched either, Weaver has been very good on the road and it looks like the Cards may have some life left in them. Weaver against Wells in Game 2. Suppan and Woodrow Wilson in Game 3. If anybody gets on, it's Carp again in Game 4.
Point of Interest: Jason Marquis made the post-season roster.
Monday, October 02, 2006
Two and a Half to Four (and maybe 8 for those of you read on a 4th grade level) MINUTES OF FUN!!!
*A gut wrenching but clinching, ram escaping, beautiful blues tune look at the weekly quick-witted Two Minutes....*
FIRIN' IT UP: Well, the Cardinals are going to the play-offs. Their pitching looks great and they're scoring runs at an unbelievable rate, should be a cake-walk from here.
SPARKIN' THE COALS: Looks like the only thing different this season for the Rams is that they have a new coach. New coach, same football team. Play the good teams tough, and let the bad teams play you tough. Expect this all season. If the offense is clicking, the defense will look like roadkill. If the defense is perky, the offense will look like it's being run by Kerry Collins.
GETTIN' HOTTER: Hip, hip, hooray with cherries AND whip cream on top. Mizzou football moves to 5-0, beating Colorado on Saturday. And it's true, they do have, statistically, the #1 "D" in America. I said I'd give them love if they started 6-0, they're getting closer. Possibly this won't be just another Mizzou sports let-down. But don't bank on it just yet...
OUT OF GAS: Most importantly, but among other teams, the Cubs, Astros, and Red Sox. Have fun in the offseason, boys!!! And to Mark Prior and Kerry Wood: I look forward to hearing about your offseason health progression. In the words of Whitey Herzog when asked about the rumors concerning him coaching the Cubs next year: "They got two pitchers over there who would actually be pretty good if they ever got off their a** and pitched." Dusty Baker is out, Whitey would never, and Joe Girardi better not.
PUTTIN' IT OUT: Looks like Adam Wainwright can shut things down.
DOUSIN' IT WITH ICE: The BLUESSSSSSSSSSSS start this week, Thursday at San Jose. Check your local listings. They didn't shine in the preseason, but I've always heard that the preseason doesn't really matter. We have a chance to start 1-0 this season, since we're finally not opening up at Detroit.
fun havin' ya!
Questions or comments: dunterreiner@semosportsweb.com
FIRIN' IT UP: Well, the Cardinals are going to the play-offs. Their pitching looks great and they're scoring runs at an unbelievable rate, should be a cake-walk from here.
SPARKIN' THE COALS: Looks like the only thing different this season for the Rams is that they have a new coach. New coach, same football team. Play the good teams tough, and let the bad teams play you tough. Expect this all season. If the offense is clicking, the defense will look like roadkill. If the defense is perky, the offense will look like it's being run by Kerry Collins.
GETTIN' HOTTER: Hip, hip, hooray with cherries AND whip cream on top. Mizzou football moves to 5-0, beating Colorado on Saturday. And it's true, they do have, statistically, the #1 "D" in America. I said I'd give them love if they started 6-0, they're getting closer. Possibly this won't be just another Mizzou sports let-down. But don't bank on it just yet...
OUT OF GAS: Most importantly, but among other teams, the Cubs, Astros, and Red Sox. Have fun in the offseason, boys!!! And to Mark Prior and Kerry Wood: I look forward to hearing about your offseason health progression. In the words of Whitey Herzog when asked about the rumors concerning him coaching the Cubs next year: "They got two pitchers over there who would actually be pretty good if they ever got off their a** and pitched." Dusty Baker is out, Whitey would never, and Joe Girardi better not.
PUTTIN' IT OUT: Looks like Adam Wainwright can shut things down.
DOUSIN' IT WITH ICE: The BLUESSSSSSSSSSSS start this week, Thursday at San Jose. Check your local listings. They didn't shine in the preseason, but I've always heard that the preseason doesn't really matter. We have a chance to start 1-0 this season, since we're finally not opening up at Detroit.
fun havin' ya!
Questions or comments: dunterreiner@semosportsweb.com
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