Texas Rangers

Rangers Beat Jays in 14

2008-04-17T05:43:00.000-07:00

A few years ago my friends and I were headed to a comedy club and when we were almost there, one realized he'd left his wallet and ID back at the place. We had to go back and get it, making us late for the show.

Not that there was anything comical about last night's game, but Broussard would be my ID-less friend (and Benoit would be the one no one wanted to come but came anyway).

I hate walks, but another thing I beginning to hate more is allowing batters to get to a full count with two outs. It seems like this happens all the time by Ranger pitchers which allows the baserunners to run on the pitch.

And now Blalock's back is bad again. I'm anxious to see what's next in line at 3rd because even though I have been happy with Hank's play so far, I'm nervous about his long-term health.

Kason Gabbard. Please don't get pissed that the team squandered your performance. Don't get upset because it's going to happen again...and again...and...you get the point. Hmmmm, maybe this is why pitchers don't want to come to Texas.

Blundering Rangers Drop Another

2008-04-16T05:20:00.000-07:00

I'm so confused. Are our players this inept? If so, are we really building anything.

No one in our current rotation will be a starter here in three years.

Do you really think Young and Kinsler are the elite middle tandem to build on.

Hamilton is the only outfielder that may be a starter in three years.

Hank won't have the ability to play third in a few years.

We have no first baseman.

Laird will not be here past this season.

If we are lucky, Benoit and Wilson will still be productive, but if so, it's going to take big money to keep them. Maybe more than you want to spend on relief pitching.

The one change I hope comes sooner than later is that Washington is forced to go on Jeff Foxworthy's show to prove he is smarter than a fifth grader. No way he wins if there are categories about sports or grammar.

Harold Reynolds Update

2008-04-16T05:11:00.000-07:00

Since I mentioned him I figured I would link to a story updating his situation. Looks like he's not quite as bad as ESPN made him out to be. Good thing they still have Dana Jacobson. I hope someone picks him up.

Berman Caught

2008-04-13T08:19:00.000-07:00

He's a fool. I know this deals with football, but I saw an blurb about how Clay Bucholz of the Red Sox was spotted drinking with Berman and it made me worry about his interference with our good game. It also made me thing of Harold Reynolds. I always like hearing him talk shop. Can't imagine Reynolds making the work environment more hostile than Berman.

Check out the interview with the man behind the Berman videos.

CBSSports.com Ranger Game Preview

2008-04-13T08:14:00.000-07:00

Texas Rangers, Major League Baseball, Toronto Blue Jays - CBSSports.com

I'm jumping on the bandwagon of those frustrated with ESPN. Not only has the television station become a joke (that's not really funny), the dang web page seems to lock up my laptop all the time. I've branched out and found the CBS Sportsline site to provide a good game preview. I'll feature a few others and decide what's best. Got a suggestion? I'd like to know.

Errors Doom Rangers Against Jays

2008-04-13T07:48:00.000-07:00

Yeah, yeah. I know we haven't scored enough the last two games to win either, but the shaky defense has got to drop morale and therefore the bats. Padilla was cruising until Cat couldn't hang in to the deep lined hit over his shoulder. Difficult play. Maybe, but one that could spark some momentum rather than rattle a pitcher that struggles to control the marbles he has left. Funny how I never see criticism of Frankie C taking at-bats and playing time away from the youngsters. What's he doing on this team?

Saturday night seemed like the same as other close losses. Mendoza took a little time to settle down in the first but ended up getting out of the first frame with only one runner crossing. It wasn't until three consecutive ball rolled through the left side of the infield that the game was decided. Only Hank's mistake counted as an error but Young could have snagged the ball up the middle and has to knock down his second chance the save a run. People still going to blame the flu? It was a long time ago the Nomar, Jeter, A-rod, and a fielder like Young could be considered elite shortstops. Take a look around the league and tell me our "face of the franchise" is an elite shortstop. Borderline elite hitter these days and not with risp.

Last year I noticed numerous games where people remarked how pitchers threw games against the Rangers that they hadn't shown previous. This year there have been a few gems by a couple more no-names, and I bet there will be more. My reasons:

1. Confidence. They know their hitters will score a few against us.
2. Lack of patience by Ranger hitters. They can get Ranger hitters to swing early and often. Stat packing K totals for a few non-K hurlers.
3. Lack of the long ball threat. Sure Hamilton will poke a few, but I doubt there is too much fear for pitchers when facing Broussard, Bradley, or Hank.
4. Rangers don't run (or bunt, or hit the other way, or sacrifice...) So there are runners in scoring position, so what. We stink with risp.

I know what will keep the Blue Jays from sweeping us since the first time in over 20 years, Scott Feldman. And don't look now, but the only healthy lefty in the pen is "blueglovelefty." Might be a long time between Feldman and Wilson today. I tell you what, I'm going to Scarborough Faire and I'll check in on the boys later. Adios.

Baseball Players as Celebrities

2008-04-11T05:51:00.000-07:00

Neat to see a little exploration of the role new media plays in the coverage of MLBers. The article is kind of weak, but worth the read because of the topic alone. I've never understood how Hollywood celebrities are chased and documented while the private lives of the ball player have been left alone. The times, they are a changin'.

Rangers Creep Over .500

2008-04-11T05:42:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Ron Washington. 1st time over .500 and the Rangers first time since September of 2006. We've missed you.

Is there anything that can propel a team and build confidence more than winning a double header? Seriously, I can't think of a topper. Even signing a player or trading for one could generate excitement, but the effect can be moot when play starts. Maybe a big comeback win, but that may only motivate the team when it's behind. Probably the one scenario that might compare is a series sweep against a front runner, but I bet the guys feel pretty good today going to work, and I hope we keep it going against the Jays.

Good luck, Guillermo, or whatever your name is today.

Let's Play Two

2008-04-10T09:45:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite days of the year used to be Mother's day when the Ranger's regularly played a double header. Back at Arlington Stadium. My dad and I frequented games, but that day we all went. Seems like we all just get so busy these days. Good luck, guys.

Opening Day Blues

2008-04-08T19:29:00.000-07:00

So the Rangers have never been over .500 with Ron Washington. That's got to be rough. I feel bad for the guys that have been here and are being asked for patience. Accepting losing builds a climate that is satisfied with mediocrity. No organization, business, or even individual thrives with that ethic.

Four walks, a hit batter, and an error. Six extra base runners. Hard to compete like that. We can make excuses that Jennings overthrew in front of his home fans and he hitters wanted to excite the crowd, but the truth is that Brian Burres has a legitimate fastball and slow lefty, bender. Pretty filthy stuff. Not bad for a team many say might be the worst in the AL. Not if Burres brings that arsenal each time he gets a turn. Might just be that it was his b-day, and I always had huge games on that occasion.

Let's try again tomorrow.

Former Ranger Update

2008-04-08T06:48:00.000-07:00

So here's your former Ranger line-up. Big bucks. Worth the moolah?

Wilkerson 0 for 2, hitting .059
(3B)Mike Lamb went 2 for 4 for the Twins and is hitting under .200
(2B)Soriano went 1 for 6 and is at .094
(util)DeRosa is playing well for the Cubs. Good news after his health problems.
Carlos Pena 1 for 4 , .227
(SS)A-Rod 1 for 4, .320
Adrian Gonzalez 4 for 5, scored 4 runs, hit his 2nd HR, .344
Hafner 0 for 2, .240
(LF)Delucci, keeping the bench warm
(CF)GMJ, 1 for 2, .344
(RF)Carlos Lee 2 for 4, .303
(1B) Texiera 0 for 3, .172
(C) Pudge, .174
Loaiza and Chan Ho game up jacks to the D-Backs Mark Reynolds (who?)

...logjam of left over 1st basemen.

Some that the Rangers considered over the off-season:

Carlos Silva had another quality start for the M's.
Kosuke Fukudome stole his 2nd base and is hitting over .450.
Torii Hunter, walk-off grand slam
Andrew Jones 0 for 4, .115

Observations from Monday:

The Pirates put in pitcher Zach Duke to pinch hit in their extra inning game.
Vlaverde, the Astros closer, has and ERA of 11.25 and is tied for the league lead with two wins.
Hanley Ramirez might be the best player in baseball.

Video of Chris Davis

2008-04-08T05:32:00.000-07:00

Alex Eisenberg of Baseball Digest Daily News (neat site), has a breakdown and video of 3rd base prospect Chris Davis.

So what are we going to do with all these young talented players? Flip 'em for some pitching at some point?

Rangers Parking Info

2008-04-08T05:28:00.000-07:00

Rumor is that parking at TBIA may be rougher this year than in the past. If you're one of the lucky ones that are getting to go to the game today, check out the map from The FWST.

Say a prayer that the rain holds off.

My Sports Knowledge

2008-04-08T05:13:00.000-07:00

Just taking advantage of this forum to brag about how I picked Kansas to win the tournament and how my picks put me in the 94th percentile of Yahoo participants. The tough thing is that the company I keep is darn good also. I finished third in my pool. One place out of the money.

Time to recognize my talents. In an article penned by Michael Young of The DMN about Spring-time hope for Ranger fans, he quotes Jamie Newberg and Joe Siegler, both of which haven't linked to my page. As inclusive and cooperative as the Internet and blogging should be, it seems to be as clickish (sorry about the pun) as any organization I've experienced. I'll keep sending people their way. Taking the high road, but if anyone wants my opinion or link love, I'm easy to find.

Umpire Says Foul Word

2008-04-07T05:03:00.000-07:00

ESPN airs an umpires F-bomb after being hit in the head by a pitch during the Sunday night broadcast between the White Sox and Tigers. Painful.

Scouting the Orioles

2008-04-06T17:15:00.000-07:00

Check out the following blogs for insider info about Tuesday's opponent, the Tejeda-less Orioles. Hey, they're on fire right now. Better do our homework.

Camdenchat

Oriolepost
Orioleslocker
Roarfrom34

Dempsey's Army

Isn't the Internet great?

Hideo Nomo Returns

2008-04-06T16:57:00.000-07:00

I know this isn't Ranger related, other than I've always wanted us to sign the Japanese legend, but the Royals purchased Hideo Nomo's minor league contract, so he's back in the bigs. I caught the fever back in 95 when he twirled his way to the NL ROY. Good thing I didn't get rid of that rookie card or Dodger jersey. Could still turn out to be worth something.

Rangers Reach .500, Laird Rocks!

2008-04-06T16:27:00.000-07:00

It's going to be real hard to take the Rangers' catching job away from Gerald Laird, and after today, why would ya? The man blasted two Halo offerings for home runs. The first landed half way up that wildlife sanctuary or whatever the Angels have in center field. He ended the day going 4 for 5 and knocking in 6 runs. He threw a laser to gun down Chone Figgins, and he elected to play today so he could work further with Padilla...result...another well called game and a Ranger starter throwing 7 innings.

Good to see Benoit back. Good to see David Murphy steal a bag and keep playing solidly. Good to see Ramon Vazquez fill in nicely.

I'm not going to say anything about the two errors.

Hate that they will take Monday off. I want to see this team keep rolling. I'll take 3 and 3 after the first 6 games on the road against the two debatable best teams in the West. And rumor is that it's being debated.

Past and Present Rangers

2008-04-06T14:07:00.000-07:00

Always tough to see former Rangers playing well in other uniforms. Volquez fanned 8 for the Reds and Chris Young is mowing down Dodgers as I type this. Former Rangers Teixera, Kapler, and Soriano have all hit home runs for their teams.

At least we've got Ben "The Bopper" Broussard who just launched his third dinger of the season and leads the league in rbi. He only had 7 all of last year. He's hit three on the road and should do well at TBIA.

Does it seem like we've had more batter hit by pitches than normal? I'm not complaining, but I don't want anyone hurt trying to be a 2nd inning hero.

OK, Padilla, keep your head.

Baseball Music Video

2008-04-06T08:42:00.000-07:00

OK, CJ. Let's see if you can beat this classic baseball video from 1986.

I feel a little better about Orel bailing on the Rangers now.

Texas' History with Garland

2008-04-06T05:15:00.000-07:00

Found it. In 2006 Guillen threw a fit when Garland failed to retaliate when Padilla plunked a few Sox hitters. I'm not sure it was personal since Padilla has hit more batters over the last 5 years (66) than any other pitcher in baseball. But, does it work? This from The Dallas Morning News:

" It should also be noted, however, that the hit batsmen apparently had the intended effect. He faced Chicago twice more after hitting a pair of White Sox in June, raising Guillen's ire. He held the White Sox to one earned run in 15 innings after twice hitting A.J. Pierzynski in June. He faced the Angels once after the August run-in and held them scoreless for seven innings."

Maybe having a little "Nuke" Laloosh in you helps? But it's not going to be enough if we can't muster more than a solo shot.

Millwood Misses Out on Win

2008-04-06T04:44:00.000-07:00

Despite pitching the Rangers first complete game since my birthday in 2006 (thanks for that, Kevin), Millwood couldn't garner his first win of the season. Last night's "W" goes to Jered Weaver of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (always funny) who is claiming he didn't have his best stuff but struck out six and shut out the Rangers through seven innings. Weaver is going to have to continue to pitch like that with Lackey and Escobar hurting.

Not-so-fun fact. The Rangers have only scored 9 runs in Millwood's last 7 starts going back to last year. That'll make pitchers want to come here.

Watching Torii Hunter last night, I still haven't decided whether we should have pushed harder for him. Wouldn't a Hunter, Hamilton, Bradley outfield be nasty? But 90 Million? Whew.

Still don't like to see our only run(s) coming via the long ball, but knowing that Darren Oliver is pitching, and getting the ball in meaningful situations, makes me wonder why more talented arms can't get it together. Good for you, D.O. And good for you, J.D. is the pile you pillaged from the Sox for Gagne.

For some reason I have a faint feeling that I'm supposed to dislike Jon Garland for a past meeting with the Rangers, but I can't remember what transpired. If you remember, let me know. Something more than just blanking us. Maybe a hit batter or some negative comments about Texas. Can't remember. That's what old age does to you.

Love your Sunday and keep rooting for Kansas. One win away from nailing this year's bracket.

Rangers Handle Halos

2008-04-05T13:27:00.000-07:00

That's the team I want to see. Gabbard looked like a young Kenny Rogers, mixing speeds and rolling that bog lefty curve that players dribble all over the infield. And...our middle infield actually handled the chances.

We were the team taking extra bases on pitches in the dirt and balls hit behind runners.

The bullpen makes me nervous. I don't know what a Nippert is, but it doesn't seem to throw well. Kudos to the starters for being tolerable. Lets see if Millwood can ring up his first win against spring sensation Weaver. I feel good about today.

I'll be flipping over to the NCAA games to root for Kansas and UCLA. Still got a chance to win the pool. Go Jayhawks, Bruins, and, of course, Rangers..

Rangers Lose First Series of the New Season

2008-04-03T05:19:00.000-07:00

Jennings threw OK. No major screw ups in this game, but nothing substantial either. Hamilton was the only one to reach base twice, both times on walks. Broussard did muscle one out, but I just don't see this guy being part of the Rangers future, and if not, he's wasting at-bats that some others need. On the other hand, if he has to keep digging throw out of the dirt, maybe he has to stay.

Silva, on the other hand, looked like a pitcher worth a 4-yr./$48 million contract. The largest ever given to a Mariner pitcher. Seemed a little high this off season, but what MLB contract doesn't seem high. I'd just like to see a pitcher come to the Rangers and pitch better than he had prior to his arrival. Been a long time since that's happened. I'm drawing a blank.

I hope Gabbard can get it going on Friday. He's been underwhelming this spring and I was excited when we brought him over in the Sox trade.

Canseco on Letterman

2008-04-02T05:55:00.000-07:00

Vindicated? The sideshow is part of the spectacle of sports, and I feel OK adding the clip since he is a former Ranger and his miraculous header ranks as one of the funniest Ranger moments of all-time. Right or wrong, the guy is a trip and Letterman is classic in handling of the lug.

Rangers beat Mariners 5-4

2008-04-02T04:33:00.001-07:00

From Jim Reeves at the FWST:

If you're keeping score, in the past two years, the Rangers have traded Alfonso Soriano, Chris Young, Adrian Gonzalez, Francisco Cordero and Teixeira and will not have a single player on their opening day 25-man roster to show for it. You have every right to wonder how much better this team would look if those five players were still here.

Pretty amazing, huh. And as far as our rebuilding plan, I hate it, but I'll explain in future posts.

Back to the game. Still giving up the extra base hit? Yes. Another Young error and two by Kinsler. Hamilton, who gets tonights pass because of his impressive, game winning jack off of Putz, misplayed a ball hit by Ichiro and let it fall in front of him. He more than made up for it later with a couple nice grabs.

Laird impressed me again. This time with a nice bunt that put him on second base. Did he really have 10 bunt singles last year? If salty is truly the phenom everyone keeps saying, why are we holding him while his stock drops. We've got plenty of catchers that can play a back up role in the bigs. Sell high!

Last highlight, Wilkerson going 0 for 5 and leaving 6 men on base. Good luck Mariners.

I've also seen some blog debate about whether the M's are the favorite to win the West. I kind of think so. Their rotation is deep and their line-up is fairly strong. I'd go with the Angels if their arms were healthy, but their top two starters are hurting and that may be enough for another team to keep up.

Good luck to my hometown boy Jason Jennings. Take it to 'em and represent that M town. 160 to go.

Game 1

2008-04-01T05:12:00.000-07:00

One down. One loss. People seem to be excited about our batters working deep into counts, most times facing at least five pitches, but I'm not so sure this is such a great thing. Bedard did throw more than he probably wanted and was chased a little early, but until the 8th inning, our lone run had come on a solo shot by Young in the first and we were terrible with runners in scoring position (big problem last year).

From what I've read this off season, a major focus is not giving up the extra base. Someone should have told the players. Young's error rattled Millwood and opened the flood gates...or the bullpen gates...let's hope the two aren't synonymous. Fukumori came in and gave up a few extra bases with two wild pitches and two walks (I know one was intentional).

I also didn't like the attitude and body language of a few Rangers after a number of at-bats. Bradley had a right to be upset about Jim Joyce missing the HBP, but his bat fling isn't going to help when he's already got a terrible rep with umps. Broussard looked frustrated as well. Probably would too with that batting line. Byrd fired his gear down after a K, too. It's the first of 162 games and we are already whining and showing that kind of frustration. Can't be good.

About the only positive was Laird's defense. He gunned down two runners trying to steal, validating the decision to keep him as starter because of his defense, but how many O fers can we handle with this line-up.

Excited about seeing if King Felix can start this year like he did last year. If so, we will struggle tonight. 161 to go.

Behind the Back Pitch

2007-12-25T06:13:00.000-08:00

This guys dishes sweeter than Steve Nash. I'm guessing it's a legal pitch. It'll be the next American craze.

Crazy Curveball Video

2007-12-25T06:07:00.000-08:00

Forget the gyroball, maybe CJ can run the Blitzball out there late in games.

On Christmas, these guys remind me of days when we'd get new toys and spend all of our holiday pretending we were major leaguers. Enjoy.

Ghost of Xmas Past

2007-12-25T05:58:00.000-08:00

Wonder what the doctor prescribed for Nolan. Maybe a little juicy juice? Should have recommended a wardrobe change.

Who wears short shorts?

Great Site for Gear

2007-12-24T13:56:00.000-08:00

I know this may be a tad late, but spoil yourself with that cash or gift card that Santa brought. Tons of clothes and memorabilia are discounted. I like this Redhawks T for $10. Hint, hint.

Fansedge.com

Contest for Ranger's Fans

2007-12-24T13:29:00.000-08:00

OK, Ranger fans and contributers to the user-generated world, there's a 1 minute video contest that would be great for pain-inducing play of our team. Be careful that the song doesn't get stuck in your head. I'd hate for you to get caught singing this one at your X-mas party. But that might just be what this competition needs...

Ooh, I've got to go...

Mitchell Report Casualty

2007-12-24T13:09:00.000-08:00

Was this guy on the list? If not, maybe ol' Daniels can give him a spring training invite.

From the Other Side

2007-12-24T12:51:00.001-08:00

Check out a Cincy Fan's view on the Volquez for Hamilton trade. Anyone with enough guts to admit he's blogging from his mom's computer deserves some Internet love. Make sure to check out the comments. About the same as I'm hearing here in Texas.

CincyFan

Fan Interference

2007-12-24T12:40:00.000-08:00

Hate when fans run out on the field, but this one is kind of funny. Sorry that you have to hear Terry Bradshaw in the background. Just as good without the sound. Enjoy.

Clemens Speaks

2007-12-24T12:26:00.000-08:00

For what it's worth. Even funnier since I'm an Aggie. Promise to start posting again.

Game 20, L8-7, 19K's and One Error Doom Rangers

2007-04-26T04:33:00.000-07:00

19 K's. Sure, Cleveland struck out 13 times, but 19!?! Games like last night's when a team has an early lead, comes back, and then blows it again, hurt. It's those nights that take a toll and keep players from becoming emotionally invested. Not that they don't try, but the excitement starts to disipate.

To Eyre's credit, he pitched well the other night and shouldn't even be with the squad right now if McCarthy and Padilla could pitch more than four innings to start a game. I am on record as being against the Padilla signing from the beginnig. He's not the type of guy I want on the Rangers.

Wilkerson is done. Done. End this madness. We made a mistake. Don't make it worse. Done.

Game 19, L5-4, Rangers Let One Slip Away

2007-04-24T04:32:00.000-07:00

After winning a game that could instill some confidence, we lost a game we should have won. Despite falling behind (seems like we're always having to come back), the Rangers rallied to tie the score, but Washington left Millwood in too long and his last run was the difference. Do I blame Wash? No. I blame McCarthy whose two consecutive extremely short starts have taxed our bullpen to the point that Wash had to push Millwood.

Yes, Millwood is our ace. He should be able to go more than 106 pitches, and he shouldn't lose to some Mariner call-up. He shouldn't give up ten hits, even though most were cue shots and Texas leaguers. He should have gotten Ichiro out with two outs and the bases loaded...but Hank shouldn't have gotten his two out hit the night before.

Still so little success against the division. It'll cost us in the end.

Game 18, W4-3, Rangers Come Back from the Dead

2007-04-23T06:57:00.000-07:00

Wow. Exciting finish, but don't get too excited. That was a golden gift from the A's, who don't do that after the all-star break.

Tejeda looked great, and we made Gaudin look even better. If former Ranger Justin Duchscherer hadn't caught the walk bug that we had the last few games, we'd be scratching our heads at the offense.

The other gifts came with hits on 0 and 2 counts. Granted, Hank did an awesome job to make contact and knock in the last two runs, but that's not going to happen often.

Good to see our walk total imited to 2, but our hitters can't strike out 11 times. More than half coming from Young, Kinsler, and Cruz.

Young is now hitting less than what I weigh. Not good. Seems like everything he's seeing is away. Really away. He's hitting balls to right, but no one is challenging him inside. maybe he needs to get up on the plate a little so he can start driving those wide ones.

Gagne looked like someone shot him in the back with a bb gun. Probably one of those spasms that he hadn't told anyone about. Seems like we ought to know when he's hurting. Do we have a communication problem?

Going against Baek, a 6-4 S. Korean, tonight. Don't know much about him, except that he has a tendency to give up the long ball. Millwood on the road. I like our chances tonight.

Game 17, W7-0, Loe Turns Frown Upside Down

2007-04-22T04:40:00.000-07:00

I remember kids in little league, mostly the coach's son, who would pout or cry when they didn't get to play where they wanted. Many times they wanted to pitch. I found myself in long relief situations. In that regard, I understand Loe's frustration with being in the pen. The difference, I was ten, and I also pitched well even when I didn't start.

Joe Kennedy pitched just as well as Loe, minue two more walks.

Nice to see our walk total back down to single digits. Nelson Cruz had a nice line and Tex increased his rbi total to a whoping 3.

Want to know how bad out offense is? Royce Clayton has a higher average than all of our regulars except for Kinsler, but could pass him any day now.

Let's see how we do againnst Guadin. The kid's good. Got to take 2 of 3 at home.

Benoit Sucks Too

2007-04-21T13:09:00.000-07:00

Sorry Green Dot. Benoit was worse than you also, but not much. You really tanked.

Game 16, L16-4 Rangers Wasted My Night

2007-04-21T13:01:00.000-07:00

I met the guys after work and we raced out to the game. We made good time and rolled into the parking lot in the bottom of the 2nd inning, but slowed our roll when hearing that the Rangers were behind 8-0. Had a beer or two in the parking lot. Turned in our vouchers to a rude attendant. Bought a dog. And saw that it was 10-0.

Didn't get one of the cheap blue hats given away, and the green dot was the third worst performer on the field after McCarthy and Chen.

Already have tickets for Cinco De Mayo, so if your looking to make some cash, put a couple bucks on the Jays that night. Don't seem to be good luck.

12 MORE WALKS!!!

Forbes' List of Baseball Team Values

2007-04-20T05:38:00.000-07:00

The Rangers come in 17th out of all the MLB teams. but most interesting to me is that only the Nationals and Mariners had a smaller increase in worth over the last year. Everyone's getting better but us. Link.

Game 15, L6-4, White Sox Walk Away With 2

2007-04-20T05:22:00.000-07:00

After a promising first game to open the series, we fell apart the last two. No hit by Buehrle, and then a more frustrating game on Thursday. Last night's game is the worst kind. 10 free passes. 6 by Padilla in 6 innings, and then when we claw back to tie the game, Feldman comes in to walk three more and surrender a home run on a 2-0 count. So much for pounding the strike zone.

Neat to see Sammy hitting. Too bad no one else is hot right now. Kinsler is a little. Sure, he's had home runs, but there are some small things that need to be done as well.

Worst thing. No hits again after the sixth inning. Our acerage is horrible in innings 7-9. Games in April mean as much as games in September. They all add up.

Game 14, L6-0, Buehrle No Hits Rangers, Nearly Perfect

2007-04-19T05:35:00.000-07:00

Not much to say today. Pretty sad. I barely remember Mike Witt's perfect game against the Rangers to finish the '84 season, (I was 6), but this ought to stick with me and the players for a while. Sure, his he had good stuff, but it seems like alot of people have good stuff when they face us. Always hear about how pitchers get it turned around against us or have a great night. I bet our bats have something to do with it.

Millwood looked bad, and in comparison to Buehrle, looked horrible. The #1 starter is like the boss in an office. People follow his lead. He sets the tone and level of expectation. If he fails to do his job, everyone else has an excuse and when people have reasons to justify failure, they'll use them. Human nature.

I'm going to my first game of the season on Friday against the A's. Anything new at the concession stand that I should try?

Boston Fan Throws Pizza

2007-04-18T04:49:00.000-07:00

This bothers me on so many levels. One being the wasting of a good slice of peperoni.

Been to Fenway once for an interleague game with the Mets. Out of control.

Game 13, W8-1, Sosa's Blast Seals Win Over ChiSox

2007-04-18T04:31:00.000-07:00

Yes, Sosa overcame cold weather and a colder reception to smack a double off the wall and a 3-run home run, but Tuesday's big performer was Robinson Tejeda. Looking like the pitcher that dominated Boston in his first start, Tejeda pitched 7 innings, while giving up only 3 hits and a single run.

My opinion: Good pitching inspires offense. Ranger hitters have got to see Tejeda dominating and figure they can be patient at the plate. That patience led to three late home runs by Wilk, Sosa, and Kinsler. They didn't have to press for runs or come from behind. A good pitching performance does more than get the other team out. Need more nights like Tejeda's.

Still bothered by Young's night. Another 0 for 4. Might be trying too hard to go the other way, but pitchers are hammering him on the outside. Have they seen something? I also don't like getting all of our runs on the long ball. Don't get me wrong, ladies love the long ball, and I do too, but it seems like we lose game when we don't hit any jacks.

Game 12, L14-6 Rangers Kata-tastrophe

2007-04-15T16:32:00.000-07:00

Horrible. All the way around. Kata was credited with two errors and could have had at least one more. McCarthy, Loe, and Chen combined to give up 12 earned runs. Forget who's going to start in the 5th spot. We look real shaky in the 2nd and 3rd spot too.

I know Young is putting the ball in play. And I like how he's hitting to the opposite field, but another 0 for 5? I don't remember so many games where he had so many hitless at bats. And he's not walking either. Probably the curse of being on my fantasy team.

Love Kinsler's pop, but so much of it has been useless.

Maybe a day off and facing the Sox this week will get us going. Good thing we won't be seeing Danks.

No More Yankee My Wankee

2007-04-15T09:35:00.000-07:00

Richard and Sal from the Howard Stern Show call in to a cable access program about the NY Yankees. Kind of funny, but made me realize how similar blogging is to producing local programming. So much better to just have people post than have them call in.

Hot Girls on the Mound

2007-04-15T07:41:00.000-07:00

Forget outfitting our foul shaggers with True uniforms. Why not take a tip from the East and have hotties toss out the first pitch? Maybe even bring 'em out for a pitch in middle relief. Brittney Spears or Jessica Simpson are also looking for face time. Get them on the bump and see what they can do.

Game 11, L8-3 Padilla Loses Control

2007-04-15T05:44:00.000-07:00

Losing control would assume that one has control to be lost. A couple infield errors led to a mind explosion by Padilla who decided to plunk Ichiro. That finally wole up the slumbering lumber of the Mariners as Beltre blasted his first homer of the season.

Behind 6-0 after four, the only runs we could muster were on home runs by Sosa and Wilkerson. Figure on the rare occasions that those guys produce that we'd probably win. Not if Kins, Cat, and Young go 0 for 9.

We're going to have a tough time with the Schillings, Santanas, Hardens, Lackeys, and King Felixes...when we face a Miguel Batista and a team in the division, we've got to get it done if we want to be more than a .500 team, which we aren't right now.

This from ESPN about today's foe Horacio Ramirez:
"The left-hander spent the last four seasons with Atlanta, where he went 30-22 with a 4.13 ERA in 84 starts and 86 appearances, but was hampered by injuries. He went just 5-5 with a 4.48 ERA in 14 starts last season after suffering a strained left hamstring, a line drive off his head and a sprained middle finger on his pitching hand.

Ramirez is 6-0 with a 2.95 ERA in eight starts career against AL opponents and will be making his first appearance versus the Rangers."

Ought to be a tough one. Side note: Danks looked pretty dang good again yesterday.

Game 10, W5-2, Millwood Masterful Against M's

2007-04-14T04:43:00.000-07:00

Millwood scattered 7 hits iver 6 innings and the bullpen trio of Benoit, Otsuka, and Gagne follwed to close out the game. Neat to see Gagne get a save, but I'm not ready to get on that bandwagon yet. I feel bad for Oki who has done everything asked and probably more.

How about Matt Kata. Picked up his first hit as a Ranger and then added two more, including a ninth inning blast for insurance. Maybe spring wasn't a fluke. Would love to see him replace Wilkerson.

Kinsler with 4 jacks?! What's going on? Love him at the 2 spot but Tex needs something behind him, and what we got isn't cutting it.

Good thing we don't see King Felix this series. That guy has got serious cheese.

Game on!

Fat Man Crushes Lady at Shea

2007-04-12T10:48:00.000-07:00

Like to see some more deatils on this. Big drunk dude fell on a lady at Shea and now she's in the hospital. Apparently Biggie Smalls made a quick getaway. Not sure how that happened. Crazy Northeners. Good thing we can handle our beer down here. Link.

Game 9, L5-4 Young's Two Blasts Not Enough for Rangers

2007-04-12T05:55:00.000-07:00

James Shields, who has started in two of the Ray's three wins, shut down the Rangers except for three home runs. Two by Michael Young and another bt Kinsler, his fourth already. Lofton's two hits were all the rest of the team could muster. Our four through eight hitters went 0 for 18 with one walk. Who is this guy, Felix Hernandez?

Former Ranger Carlos Pena picked up his first hits of the season, including a home run off of Tejeda, who got shelled for ten hits in five innings.

Chris Young getting paid. New Padre contract worth 14.5 milliion over 4 years. Seems like a steal for the pitcher who held National League hitters to the lowest batting average (.206). From Scout's inc.:

"The Padres will pay Young at least $23 million through the 2011 season. Young, who was scheduled to make $600,000 this season, will receive a boost to $750,000 for 2007 plus a $500,000 signing bonus. He will make $2.5 million in 2008, $4.5 million in 2009 and $6.25 million in 2010. The option for 2011 is $8.5 million."

Game 8, W12-9, Rangers Back to .500

2007-04-11T05:35:00.000-07:00

This team loves to come back. After Wright squandered our early lead by giving up five runs in the third, the bullpen only gave up one more earned run the rest of the game. But D Young's blast in the ninth following Kinsler's error was a serious shot.

Glad Lodton is heating up. Big Cat fan and haven't been worried about him.

Be careful getting on the Hank bandwagon. I love that he's going the other way with balls, but in 31 at-bats, he's got ten hits and eight punch outs. Kinda high. He left six on base last night.

Ranger-for-life Young is in a slump inlike I have ever seen him in. Another hitless game when everyone seemed to be finding holes.

Only thing electric about Jamey Wright is that it's shocking he's the 5th starter. Should have been Loe. I would have understood Chen. Now, niether of those two has been that impressive, and we'll probably lose Mike Wood, who if claimed off waivers, will help a ballclub. Can't say that'll be the case with Wright.

Can care less about Gagne right now unless he's stepping into the rotation or can play left and hit.

Left another 18 on base. Again, nice to see so many runners, but on a night when we needed 10 to win, we'll need to get more in when we have chances against better teams than The Rays.

Game 7, W8-4 Rangers Run Away with Win

2007-04-10T04:33:00.000-07:00

Despite falling behind early again, the Rangers rallied (all runs scored with two outs) to beat the Devil Rays. Cruz and Kinsler combined to go 7 for 7 while Sosa and Lofton wound up 0 for 8.
Congratulations to Chris Stewart for getting his first MLB hit and rbi. Also glad to see us running on the paths (Now 2nd in the AL in steals behind The Rays).
McCarthy with another quality start and the bullpen looked good except for a Carl Crawford blast surrendered by Kam Loe.
Hate to see Catalanatto leave 4 in scoring position, but timely hitting was better.
Clawing our way back to .500!

Rangers Have the Worst Outfield in Baseball

2007-04-09T06:55:00.000-07:00

The following is from Gil "Lebretard" of the FWST:
Matthews left for California, but Lofton has had a long, fruitful career as a lead-off man, with an on-base percentage of .372. He probably can't -- and shouldn't have to -- play 162 games. Washington has warm bodies to spell him.

But do the math. Matthews and Lee signed with their new teams for a combined $150 million. Yes, but Lee will be playing in the belt for THE NEXT SIX YEARS. And GMJ will be beating up on us for FIVE YEARS!

Lofton ($6 million), Wilkerson ($4.35 million), Catalanotto ($3.5 million), Cruz ($382,000) and Sosa ($500,000, plus incentives) will fill the Rangers' outfield needs for a combined $14.7 million. BUT NONE WILL BE HERE IN TWO YEARS AND WE'LL HAVE TO SPEND LEE AND GMJ MONEY!

That leaves money for (LIVERPPOOL?)-- dare we say it? -- pitching. Or for Mark Teixeira. Or for whatever.

Besides, if the Rangers are out of it come August, if the fragile lineup or pitching hopes come tumbling down, Lofton and Sosa could be candidates to be moved around the trading deadline

...Both will be free agents at the end of the year. If they're playing well, it means we're in contention and we'll keep them until the end of the year when they leave for bigger bucks. If they aren't and are expendable, who'll give us anything for aging outfielders who'll either retire or move on in the summer. My mmoney says none of these guys is starting in the outfield in 2008.

If Gil doesn't think the Rangers have the worst outfield in the league, who does?

Game 6, L2-3 Schilling and Pabelbon Shut Down Rangers

2007-04-08T20:00:00.000-07:00

Padilla would like a d.o. to D.O. Despite matching frames with Schilling, Padilla gave up two homers to Big Papi, which ended up being the difference in the game.

The Rangers sniffed a chance when Pinero came in and loaded the bases, but Papelbon put out that fire with some serious gas. He looked unhittable.

Our outfield and dh stunk again tonight. They ended up 2 for 15 with 5 strikeouts. Wilkerson had three K's and looked servely overmatched. Lofton got thrown out by his counterpart, Coco Crisp, on a bonehead baserunning error.

Just got beat tonight, but in order to be a championship team, these are the close ones that mean the difference between 81 and 90+ wins.

Looking forward to seeing some of that Devil Ray youth. Some serious talent over there. McCarthy better get ready to bring it.

Texas Pitching Pipeline

2007-04-08T14:25:00.000-07:00

Former Rangers John Danks and Kip Wells (from Houston) pitched well for their respective teams today. Danks got the loss, but just got outdueled by Santana. No shame in that.

Former Mesquite, TX pitcher Jason Jennings threw six good innings for the Astros today. Former Forney Jackrabbit Zack Segovia got his first major league start for the Phillies. Decent. Zach Duke, who owes me a monkey, got his first win of the season while shutting down the Reds.

Hopefully Padilla, who was once traded for Curt Schilling, will step up for the Rangers on national TV tonight. Did Millwood look fat last night? I promise you Schilling will tonight.

Batting Practice Schedule

2007-04-08T07:46:00.000-07:00

Below is a chart showing the batting practice times for the 2007 season at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington.

Start Times: 1:05 2:05 2:55 7:05 7:35
Rangers Hit 10:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. 12:20 p.m. 4:30 p.m. 5:00
Field Prep 11:10 a.m. 12:10 p.m. 1:00 p.m. 5:10 p.m. 5:40
Visitors Hit 11:20 a.m. 12:20 p.m. 1:10 p.m. 5:20 p.m. 5:50
Rangers Inf 12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. 1:50 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:30
Visitors Inf 12:10 p.m. 1:10 p.m. 2:00 p.m. 6:10 p.m. 6:40

Go Chorizo!

2007-04-08T06:09:00.000-07:00

News report about the official suasage of the LosRangers blog. Too bad it didn't win the race. Chorizo and runs are a familiar combination. Didn't know the Brew Crew had Hispanic alternate jerseys like our Los Rangers. Kind of cool.

Looks like we're trying to copy them with a live dot race at the game on Saturday.

Danks in HDTV

2007-04-08T05:55:00.000-07:00

John Danks will be pitching on WGN in HDTV today (Sunday) at 1:05.

"Honestly, I like our offense," Danks told the team's official Web site when asked about his matchup with Santana. "If I keep us in the game, I like our chances to win."

I'm betting on Johan. My fantasy team needs a win and about 10 K's. It'd help if the Indians and Mariners could get a game or two in as well.

Game 5, W8-4

2007-04-08T05:12:00.000-07:00

It took a cold night to heat up the Ranger bats, but the Rangers got them going in an impressive 8-4 win over the Red Sox and Julian Tavarez.

Let me start with the bad. The weather for one. This isn't how baseball should play, but at least we're not in Cleveland. Propbably a good motto for most days. Not happy that we stranded 23 baserunners (same as the BoSox), but at least that means we had a ton on people on base. Hank's lead-off triple bothered me the most.

Kam Loe struggled. I hope he isn't pouting because he's stuck out in the pen; but the only way to earn some starts is performing during the season, and yesterday was a step back.

I missed Josh Lewin. Whoever worked with Grieve was horrible. Josh can be a little grating at times as well, but a 3:28 game needed a little more personality than Entourage talk.

The GOOD. Quite a bit here. Despite falling behind by two, we still were patient hitters and saw a high number of pitches. Tim Mcclelland had a generous strike zone behind the plate, but we still worked 7 walks. Same with Millwood, he found his pitches that worked and gave us six quality innings. Everyone seemed to be hitting the ball to the opposite field except for Lofton (since when did he start swinging like Ichiro?). Benoit looked good again, and Mahay held the game together for us. Sosa, who has been chasing worms with his infield dribblers, finally got a solid shot out of the infield and it landed in the left center bleachers. Impressive considering how the ball wasn't carrying. Lastly, the outfield and DH ended up 6 for 18 with 2 walks and 5 rbi. That's the difference between losing 3-4 and winning 8-4. Can they keep it up? We'll see against Schilling tonight.

Six shooters?

Game 4, W2-0

2007-04-06T18:32:00.000-07:00

As happy as I am, there are a few things keeping me from being ecstatic.

One: our outfield and DH still stink. So far this season out outfield 5 for 40. And when you add the DH, the group is 6 for 53 and one of those six hits is Sosa's check swing blooper from today. Yes, Young and Texiera will heat up, but this group may be bad all season.

Two: Gillespie leaving TAMU for KU. I know this has nothing to do with the Rangers, but being an Aggie, I really need one of my teams to win, and A&M football may be in worse shape than Donald Trump's piece on a windy day. Not good buddy.

Good thing I can count on my Mavericks and Stars coem post season. Doh!

Worst Pitch Ever

2007-04-05T06:55:00.000-07:00

Guess who has just as many wins as the Ranger pitching staff right now? This guy!

Game 3, L3-5

2007-04-05T06:39:00.000-07:00

Swept by the Angels. Couldn't be a worse start. Couldn't have been a worse start to yesterday's game. Back-to-back out sum up yesterday's game. Michael Young smashes a ball to center and GMJ robs him of a home run to end the inning. GMJ leads off the next inning with an awkward bouncer that McCarthy and Kinsler can't handle and GMJ starts a four run first. Ridiculous.

McCarthy did settle down after that and didn't pitch terribly, but our bats are still MIA, and they're not in the outfield. Yesterday the Ranger's outfield of Wilk, Cruz, and Lofton went 2 for 11. When I add the DH (Cat) the group was 2 for 14 with 6 strikeouts, and I bet a bunch of those were looking. How many times are we going to let third strikes go by. Working the count is definitely new for these guys.

Glad to have the day off, but Boston coming to town doesn't mean thing will get easier. Maybe some home cooking with get the guys going.

Ranger Tracker

2007-04-05T06:23:00.000-07:00

Mench - big game winning home run the other day.
A Gonzalez - 4 for 8 with a home run and 3 rbi. Team is 2 and 0.
Carlos Lee - 2 for 12 wtih 2 rbi and a steal. Guess he didn't get far enough away.
A-Rod - 2 for 5 in their only game with a big home run and a steal. Also an error.
Pudge - 4 for 9. Solid as always.
Soriano - 2 for 8. Nothing big...yet.
DeRosa - 3 for 6 with 2 rbi. Should have big #'s in that line-up.
GMJ Jr - 5 for 10. Four runs. Three walks. Stole a home run from Young. Team is 3-0.
Hafner - 3 for 7 with 3 runs.

With the exception of Lee, everyone seems to be off to a solid start. Look forward to a pitching update after about a week or two.

Game 2, L8-2

2007-04-04T05:59:00.000-07:00

Same. Same. Same. Able to work 8 walks but can't get anyone home. Another game with multiple errors. Mike "Ranger for Life" Young can't hit now that his wallet is fat. Young doesn't go 0 for 5 or leave six people on base!? Padilla doesn't make it through five innings and struggles with control. Vlad kills us.

Nothing new here. Been a fan since 1978, and there's nothing new. Except for the fact that Washington "lights up a room" (Ticket schtick) and that veryone is having fun. That won't last more than a week if we don't get a few wins. Good luck.

Game One

2007-04-03T05:13:00.000-07:00

What I liked:
Good pitching from both "woods," Millwood and Mike Wood.
Taking pitches. That was the best I may have ever seen a Ranger team work the count.
High number of baserunners.
Lofton. Hitting. Running. Looked good.

Not so good:
Sloppy fielding at times (to be expected at this stage)
Stranding way too many baserunners. Our only run came off a home run. Won't work!
Inability to get down a sac. bunt
Wilkerson and Sosa with O hits. Need run producing from out outfield.

And I have Mike Young on my Fantasy team. If this will be a jinx, I'll trade him ASAP, but give me a week or two.

My Fantasy...

2007-04-02T07:58:00.000-07:00

Here it is, the Losrangers of Yahoo Fantasy Baseball:

c Brian McCann (atl)
1b Prince Fielder (mil)
2b Josh Barfield (cle)
3b Ryan Zimmerman (was)
ss Michael Young
of Jason Bay (pit)
of Willay Taveras (col)
of Pat Burrell (phi)
ut Travis Hafner (cle)
bn Frank Thomas (tor)
bn Barry Bonds (sf)
bn Johnny Estrada (mil)

sp Johan Santana (min)
sp Dan Haren (oak)
sp Mike Mussina (nyy)
sp John Patterson (was)...hopefully replaced with Maddux
sp Cliff Lee (cle-dl)
rp JJ Putz (sea)
rp Jose Valverde (ari)
rp Octavio Dotel

I know, heavy on players whose pops played in the majors and really light in relief. If you've got any sleepr suggestions, I'll check the waiver wire. Go LosRangers (both).

Segovia. Ring a Bell?

2007-04-02T07:53:00.000-07:00

Zack Segovia, the former Forney Jackrabbit standout pitcher, looks to contribute this year for the Philadelphia Phillies. A second round draft pick of theirs, his progres has been slowed by a missed season due to Tommy John surgery. I love when locals make it to the bigs.

On a side note. It'll be easier to keep up with former Mesquite Poteet Pirate Jason Jennings as he plays for the Houston Astros this season. Never understood why the Rangers never tried to get him from Colorado where he was been of their most consistent pitchers the past few years. The Ballpark would have been a breeze (no pun intended...well, slightly intended).

Gonzalez Cashes In

2007-04-01T15:53:00.001-07:00

The Padres have signed Adrian Gonzalez to a four year contract worth 9.5 million and could be worth as much as 15 million if the option for the final year is picked up. Good for him. Link.

Got me wondering what former Ranger will have the best season this year. Probably should separate former position player and former pitcher.

A-Rod...A-Gon...Travis Hafner...Soriano...Carlos Lee?

Coco...Doug Davis...Kenny Rogers...Justin Duchscherer...Loaiza...Danks...Masset...Moyer...Eaton...Alfonseca...Brian Shouse...Chris Young...Aaron Sele...Kip Wells...Mike Stanton...John Wasdin...Darren Oliver?

Sorry to carry on. Just got cuaght up looking at former Ranger's [itchers still in the league. Probably a number of others I didn't notice, especially draft picks that never made it up with us.

Opening Night!

2007-04-01T15:46:00.000-07:00

It's official tomorrow. 9:05 on the Duece. Rangers against the team with the most ridiculous name in the majors. Despite having taught with John Lackey's father (great guy and coach), I'll be rooting for him to start the season with a loss as our Rangers hang about seven runs up on the favorites to win the division.

Millwood was lights out on the road last year and the GMJ karma will be working for us.

I predict we'll need 93 W's to win the division and it doesn't matter if we get them early or late as long as they add up. Here's to the first one and me not looking like an April fool.

Official Apology

2007-03-30T18:47:00.000-07:00

Sorry Kenny. Didn't know it was going to turn out to be a blood clot. I honestly do feel bad. Get healthy soon.

As for Los Rangers, I'm taking this terrible rain as a bad omen. First game back in town, and I'm ready to get in the bath tub and cover up with a matress. Hopefully things will be better tomorrow.

With opening day this weekend, I hae heard some crazy talk on the radio but the nuttiest may have come from our own Newberg. On an interview with The Ticket's Ben and Skin, I heard Newberg compare Blalock to George Brett. Are you kidding me? Some nonsense about getting back to what got him to the majors and hitting the other way. Sorry. Hank never has been able to go opposite field, and I've never been a fan of his because of that very reason. Sorry about that George. People get a little insane this time of year.

Poor, Tired Kenny

2007-03-29T10:30:00.000-07:00

Not enough sitcky stuff in the world to wake up that tired arm. Funny how when it comes time to pitch again and everyone is going to be looking at his palm, Rogers is going on the DL and needs a specialist. We could have used his numbers last year, but we don't need him, especially if it meant a multi-year deal.

Time to Panic?

2007-03-29T07:54:00.000-07:00

The White Sox are 9-21 this spring. This is Danks' line from yesterday:
J Danks (L,2-1) 4 2-3 8 6 6 6 4 1

That's right. Six walks. Seen similar lines this week. Too day it's from out number one and two pitchers. I just keep telling myself, "It's Spring."

Man I'm still pissed about the ball girls. Just say that hotties put butts in the seats and grab a few gals from Hooters. I'm sure they can handle foul territory.

So True?

2007-03-29T07:35:00.000-07:00

I rarely use the word "hate," but I hate when people lie to me; and I think the Rangers are not telling the TRUTH about hiring ball girls. This from VP Alicia Nevins:
We're trying to provide an equal opportunity for females and males," Ms. Nevins said. "There really has not been a way for females to actually participate on the field of play in Major League Baseball."
OK. So I bought that until I saw that the girls will be wearing uniforms sponsored by True.com. Seen the ads for this dating site? Stereotypical and offensive to women. This bothers me more than anything the Rangers have done in years.

I've been a fan of the team for my entire life, not because they win (obviously), but becuase I've liked the team. The unforms. The players. And unlike the other sports teams in Dallas, I'm more willing to deal with losing if we do it the right way with the right people. This advertising ploy isn't what this team is about. Or at least what it use to be about.

24?

2007-03-28T04:30:00.000-07:00

But this wasn't Fox's thriller starring Keifer Sutherland. This as the real time debacle of a floundering Ranger's pitching staff against an up and coming Padre team. Yesterday's game starred Millwood, Wilson, and Gagne all getting knocked around. Are there three pitchers we're going to count on more?

On a side note. Terrmel Sledge and Adrain Gonzalex went a combined 6 for 8 with 5 rbi's. I'd love to have Sledge instead of Wilkerson and Gonzalez would give us a Tex replacement (or a current dh) if he decides to leave. Sigh.

TR's Notes

2007-03-27T04:40:00.000-07:00

Sullivan has a few tid bits in his latest "Notes" section. Apparently Wright is solid at the 5 spot despite giving up 5 runs in 5 innings and making an error. I'm not sure I buy the idea that a long reliever may be more important during the first month, so that's a better fit for Loe. If that's the case, maybe we should put Loe in someone else's spot who is going to be pulled for long relief.

So long, Bauer. Disappointed with this one. Our bullpen needs to be strong this year and losing the Bauer of last year is going to hurt. Benoit looked awesome last night, but Wilson must have something wrong (sore fingers from blogging or too much focus on making movies?).

Last is back up catcher. The broadcasters last night made it seem like Ojeda had the job but Sullivan makes it sound like Stewart will be behind Laird. That might be a more important decision that has been given attention, at least by us, the huddled masses. Link.

Sammy on Page 2

2007-03-27T04:31:00.000-07:00

Jeff Pearlmen has an article on ESPN's page two that makes fun of Sammy Sosa. Well, at least his non-answering of steroid allegations in front of Congress and sudden lack of English. Link.

Hey Pearlmen, it's a tired bit, go back to diggin up trouble for Barry Bonds. Seems like you've done enough to get him busted. Oh, you haven't. Well the next time you come to Dallas, I've got a new shovel for you, and before you start digging, make sure there isn't anything buried in your past that you'd hate for people to find out.

Beat This, Sammy

2007-03-25T14:58:00.000-07:00

I hope Sammy is coming up with some tricked up celebration for his first home run after being out a year. He should check out Zuleta's dance for some inspiration.

Danks Officially 5th Starter

2007-03-24T17:28:00.000-07:00

South Side Sox blog has a quote by Ozzie Guillen naming Danks starter number five and sounding a lot like Washington. "The way he throws, Danks should be on the club," Guillen said. "He throws strikes and attacks the [strike] zone. What I see, I like and I think [general manager] Kenny Williams will agree with what I say." Link.

Sounds exactly like what's being preached around here, so why did we get rid of him? Masset has shown some flashes also. Ho hum.

Ranger Pitching Flamebroiled?

2007-03-24T16:43:00.000-07:00

WGN announcers said John Danks is "a toe ahead of his competition" right now. Anyone checked out Chris Young and Adrian Gonzalez lately. Hot as a spicy Tendrcrisp and it looks like we're short on starters again. McCarthy's ERA is over 10! Chen struggled last time. Padilla is all over the place. Loe is spastic. Wright, not so much.

Good thing we have all that depth in the pen with Littleton, Bauer, Wilson, ...ooops.

As long as Sosa keeps jacking homers we'll be ok.

Chen Music

2007-03-18T15:17:00.000-07:00

I see that people are singing Chen's praises after his great spring start, but check this out. He stunk last year because he threw 197 innings in 2005 with the Orioles. That is 50 more than 2002, 2003, and 2004 COMBINED! No wonder he went 0 and 7 with an ERA of nearly 7 with the O's.

In 2001 he threw about 150 innings in 27 starts and only started 6 games for three teams the next year. If he stays hot the early part of the season and can give us a month or two in the fifth spot, ride him and then ship him out quickly. Link to his stats.

Littleton...Little Right

2007-03-18T15:05:00.000-07:00

What's the deal with Wes Littleton? That guy couldn't put out a candle right now. Not sure we have the bullpen depth we thought we had, and we're going to need plenty of arms out of the pen. Link to last years numbers.

Edinson is No Skywalker

2007-03-13T20:56:00.000-07:00

Little bothers me more than crap about how coaches or fans or teammates have hurt a player's confidence. So Buck and Hart may have derailed Volquez because of rushing his development. No! Their problem was believing in a man who doesn't believe in himself. A player that can't overcome adversity will be no more than mediocre at the plate or throwing to it.

All teams that win championships are fueled by a confidence that they are the best. Not lip service, but an inspiration, many times fueled by a superstar, that elevates everyone's consciousness to a premier level. No matter the profession, the best at what they do have been considered outstanding for most of their existence, but each of these people reaches a point when he has to work for it, maybe the first time in his life (think Luke with Yoda) and those that are tough enough become the pinnacle (Jedi's).

Anyone that weak needs to be cut so that his insecurities do not infect others. Adios.

Best BaseBrawls

2007-03-11T16:08:00.000-07:00

We all know which one is the best, but Chan Ho's crazy kick is outrageous.

Robot DH

2007-03-11T16:01:00.000-07:00

I say we trade Botts or Sosa for this sweet hitting robot.

Bat Making 101

2007-03-11T15:49:00.000-07:00

Great video about how baseball bats are made. I found it first at Stumble Video. Wonder if Sosa used this when crafting his exploding bat a few years back.

The Art of Catching Foul Balls

2007-03-11T15:35:00.000-07:00

I bet a bunch of you have heard of Zack Hample, but I just came across his interview with CBS news where he describes how to snag a foul ball. Just one of those video that makes you smile and remember your first.
I think we all know someone like Zack.

Francico...Francisco...Coco

2007-03-06T04:57:00.000-08:00

OK, I get it now. Never quite got why Cordero went by "Coco." Sure, it could have been because of the last two letters of his first name and first two letters of his last, but based on the observations of The Card Critic, I'm not sure Cordero knows how to spell his own name. The blog also has a shot of the back of the card which seems poorly desinged. I might go out and buy a pack today.

Get to Know Kenny

2007-03-06T04:39:00.000-08:00

Dave Sessions of the FWST offers insight into Kenny Lofton, Texas' new one year rental for lead-off and center. I've always been a Lofton fan, but there's no doubt in my mind that if he has the season I hope he has, he will not be back next year, and we'll start back over. Link.

Delucci Ready for Big Year

2007-03-06T04:25:00.000-08:00

Anthony Castrovince has a good article up about Delucci's potential in the prolific Indian's line-up. I'm sure he'll do well. Funny how he's back with Buck now after his departure seemed to have such a negative effect on the clubhouse last season. Link.

Good, Bad, and the Ugly from 3/5

2007-03-05T18:30:00.000-08:00

Most impressive from today's game:
1. Miguel Ojeda. Follows a great sac. bunt with a huge jack over the mini monster in center field. Threw out a runner stealing second and settled down Francisco when he needed it (no thanks to Hairston...he'll show up later)

2. Baserunning. Stole a few bases. Great call for the double steal after Affeldt was hit by the liner.

3. AJ Murray and Scott Rice. If you didn't hang in there for the entire game. These lefties pitvhed the 8th and 9th. Both kept the ball down and challenged hitters with strikes. Can't say the same about all our pitchers today.

4. Bott's triple was nice as well, but letting that liner fall in front of him out in left shows how he's not even close to ready to play outfield.

Bad:
1. Wilkerson did have a gapper, but he just can't keep striking out like he does.

2. Tex hardly played, but he looked lost in while striking out. Almost seems like he's thinking too much. Just hit the ball. Maybe it's those ugly batting gloves.

3. Fielding up the middle. Hairston did make a couple good flips, but botching the easy double play ball really hurt Francisco. Franky was struggling but has just gotten the last hitter to fly out and induced the inning ender, but Hairston's error led to a long inning. Same for Kinsler's stumble on Kaz's hit. How did he beat out a grounder to second. Cruz also misplayed a ball hit to center. We can't afford to give up extra outs, especially early in games. More pitches for our starters = trouble.

4. Benoit needs to get the ball down. Littleton didn't impress me either.

The Ugly:
1. Chris Stewart. Stewart looked like a man that got to play because he had the highest bid in a charity auction. His passed ball on a Littleton pitch was ridiculous. Almost as bad as his at bat. He watched two pitches go by and then gave a Greg Maddux courtesy wave at the third strike.

2. Todd Donovan, when put in to run for Ojeda, put on his batting gloves when he got to first base. I've seen guys take them off and squeeze them to protect their fingers when they slide, but putting on the gloves when you get to first base? Silly.

Super Athlete

2007-03-05T06:04:00.000-08:00

Daniel Coyle of the NY Times has written an article exploring the development of the "Super Athlete." Being a tennis coach, his observation of the Spartak Little Group is interesting, but it made me think about how the best in baseball have come to reach their peak. In baseball, professionals seem to emerge from the most varied paths of all professional sports, and they seem the hardest to predict.

Anyway. The article is great and worth the read, even if you have no interest in tennis. For shame. Link.

CJ Wilson Blog

2007-03-04T14:13:00.000-08:00

CJ's blog is great. Funny and informative. The Rangers are playing a great preseason game today. Pitching has been great. Arias is smacking balls. Sosa homered. So far so good. Shhh. I know it's the Royals. Link.

Reeves Scattershoots

2007-03-04T07:53:00.000-08:00

Jim Reeves of the FWST has a few Ranger's notes in a recent article. Mainly the same stuff about Young's contract meaning Tex's departure and an interesting note about how the No. 2 spot should be swinging away with Lofton on base. So much for manufacturing runs. Link.

The Tex news bothers me though. If signing both would cost too much, why the heck did we get rid of Adrian Gonzalez? He's going to be one of the best bargains in the National League. By 2009, most of the rest of the other position guys will be gone as well. Anyone counting on Lofton, Wilkerson, Cat, Byrd, Sosa, etc. still being here then. Laird may bolt if he turns out to really produce, and if Hank becomes the player we need him to be, how are we going to sign him?

Baseball 2K7

2007-03-01T04:55:00.000-08:00

What's the best baseball video game?

McCarthy-ism

2007-02-18T05:52:00.000-08:00

Jan Hubbard of the FWST has an article out about Brandon McCarthy's confidence and how low The Ballpark ranks as a launching pad for home runs. The Rangers' home ranks 13th in the majors for home runs allowed, jet stream and all. Obviously, our bats lacked some of the punch of teams of previous years, but it goes to show that the men swinging the lumber have more to do with it than our summer air. Link.

What the Foulke?

2007-02-16T08:05:00.000-08:00

Probably the one pitcher in the league coming of major arm problems that the Rangers haven't signed is calling it quits after feeling substantial pain in his elbow. I think the Indians were really going to need him after a disappointing 2006. Olney reported this. Link.