View from the South Side Cheap Seats

not Chicago Sports But...

SarahN — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 11:37:00 GMT

For those of you who don’t know the Muskegon Big Reds you probably also don’t know that they are on one of the “winningest” high school football teams of all time, named to Sports Illustrated's “Best in State” and just played a game this past weekend that was touted as the #1 high school game of the week in the nation.

I understood the tradition of Big Red football early on. Although I didn’t attend MHS my parents did, my grandparents did as did the majority of my closest friends growing up. By junior high I not only knew the words to On Muskegon but also Red and White and their Alma Mater.

A side note, but a vivid memory for me is the Big Red Marching Band, and THE BEST part is at the end of every home game when everyone runs into the tunnel under the home seats of the stadium. You try your best to become part of the stadium walls because if you aren’t part of that wall you will get hit by a collection of wind instruments. Excitement builds, then you hear it…that distinct drum line cadence. The adrenaline pumps as it gets louder and louder and begins to echo off of the cold cement walls. In no way does YouTube do it justice, but THIS is what I’m talking about!

I remember watching in person the as the Big Reds won the state championship in 1986 and 1989 at the Pontiac Silverdome (yes, some Michigan teams actually do win football games in Detroit.) Marcus Longmire, Willie Wilson, Elan Banks...yeah, there was an Elan Banks who played on a state champion team and now his son is the QB for the very same team two decades later. Coming home for Thanksgiving over the years I was happily surprised to see the Big Reds in contention for another state title in 2006 and although I wasn’t able to make the trek to Ford Field I watched them win it on TV.

Saturday, November 15, 2008, Opening Day of Deer Season in Michigan but it was also open season on the Lowell Red Devils. The Massey Nationally Rated #2 Lowell Red Devils. "USA Today"'s #8 team in the Midwest Lowell Red Devils.

A crowd of nearly 8,500 gathered for the Michigan Division 2 Regional Final. It’s a day with dropping temps, a steady and constant and cold north wind (chills in the low 30s), rain and snowish mix with the sun peaking out here and there to tease you--there was even a rainbow. The game was played on a somewhat neutral site at Grand Haven High School--really not in the middle of the two schools, it’s much closer to Muskegon who was supposed to host the game but because of Muskegon's field being in such poor condition-- thanks to bad weather--the switch was made because Grand Haven's turf field was in much better shape.

Many were saying that THIS game was the state championship. It was #1 vs #2. They just happened to be from the same region and had to meet this past weekend instead of at Ford Field on Thanksgiving Weekend.

The Big Reds scored on their first 6 possesions and ended up with 526 total yardage (429 of those yards were in 41 carries). This game had it all, interceptions, quarterback sneak into the end zone and Jason Hannett…all I can say is WOW! The senior running back had 193 yards and 16 carries, QB Elan Banks was 6 for 6 and threw for 97 yards, by half time the score was 34-7. Most of the game was played with a running clock (high school mercy rule). It was utter domination, offensively and defensively. I'm honestly still rubbing my eyes. It was crazy!

So it's onto East Lansing where the Big Reds will play the semi-final game at Spartan Stadium this Saturday. Go get 'em guys!!!!

(Note, I believe there are 13 high school football teams in Muskegon County...5 of them are headed to the semi-finals this weekend, not bad for a county of approx. 175,000.)

So Long Swish. Dirty Thirty, We Hardly Knew Thee

SarahN — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 17:47:00 GMT

I feel like commenting on next season is like commenting on a meal without having eaten it and without even seeing the menu. This time of year (between now and Spring Training and Spring Training and regular season) typically makes me nuts. Not because I can’t see the whole picture but because others don’t realize they can’t see the whole picture and shoot their mouths off—and some shouldn’t even be allowed to comment even after seeing the whole picture. That being said, here are my thoughts on the Swisher trade.

In a nutshell, I wish he would have produced more.

I remember never being happy when he walked up to the plate at Comiskey when he was wearing green so I was happy when I heard he was coming to the South Side. He did a lot for the community. I appreciate his positive energy. He was fun to watch off the field. He was only hitting .219. This should probably be “enough said” but since this is not a text message I’ll elaborate.

I’m sure he needed some adjustment time, however, baseball is a long season so I’m wondering how long a pro needs for adequate adjustment time? I do, however, think it’s kind of unfair to judge his adjustment time since he came from a place where he was the starting first baseman (had only played for that team) in a different market. In Chicago not only did he find himself in a new clubhouse but he was plugged in here and there and never was played in one particular spot. That’s probably fine if you are used to being a utility guy but going from infield to outfield to platooning outfield & back-up infield…putting a ton of pressure on yourself…it doesn’t surprise me that he failed here. I would have liked to have seen if he improved with a year under his belt but that obviously won’t happen. I also wonder if he chocked on the Chicago stage how’s he gonna do on the biggest baseball stage on earth?

All that being said, I remember conversations stating that he was on the team because of his attitude and his OBP, which was down a little but he still did finish with .332—which was what made me wince when he was in green playing the Sox. It wasn’t his hitting; it was his switch-hitting and patience at the plate.

To be honest, I think he would have been better for us in 2009. Some may think I’m crazy but I wish it were Paulie leaving instead. I’m sure the no-trade clause has snagged some opportunities there and I wonder if it’ll happen this year. No doubt the rumor mill will be churning on that one. Regardless, it's not a surprise that this happened as there just wasn't room for Swish.

As far as what the team gets back in exchange for Swish, a contender for 2nd, 3rd or back-up and a pitcher who may be fighting for the 5th spot in the rotation—great. I trust KW and I’m sure as much of a freak show I can be about this team I can’t hold a candle to him.

OUCH!

SarahN — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 03:04:00 GMT

Man, what a bummer. Jose's first game back and he ruptures his achilles tendon on first base. Lots of moves tonight as a result: Sox have acquired Horacio Ramirez...and from what I can tell it's a good pickup. Josh Fields and Boone Logan sent down. We traded an A ball player for Ramirez. Rumor has it there could be more moves. Guess we'll see.

For those of you who know me, you know my life's been a bit turned upside down but it's all good and I'm really hoping that the changes I'm making will allow me to write a bit more! Hopefully I'll be back soon!

Pieces of Eight

SarahN — Fri, 23 May 2008 12:16:00 GMT

I wish I had more time but here are my thoughts on the last eight games. First, it's always great to come back from the West Coast (or anywhere) with a winning record, however, we were stranding WAY too many guys on base. I know you can't get everyone in all the time but it was getting ridiculous regardless of wins. There were a few games where we left guys stranded in double digits--not good. Since then though we've come home and look good. There has been some very good base-running as of late (Thank you Jeff Cox). Ever since Uribe's take out of the Tiger's 2nd baseman a while back I've noticed everyone doing all they can to break up the double play and for the most part it's been working.

The last couple nights have been VERY exciting and the cool thing other than this May weather is that the rallies have come later in the game. Wed. we scored 5 in the 6th and last night the two runs we needed came in the 8th. Runs are coming from not only the long ball but also via singles and doubles---FINALLY!! The pitching has been getting it done and last night I think the pitching staff may have even faced the minimum.

Kenny's trades look great right now (CARLOS QUENTIN, Masset and Danks and the list goes on) and the guys made Ozzie look like a genius last night. Toby Hall was three for three last night--yes, Toby Hall. Let's keep it rollin' through the weekend boys. I want more fireworks!

Always Bet on Black...

SarahN — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 23:50:00 GMT

...when Verlander is in town and the Gambler isn't dealing. Verlander's record vs the Sox is now 1-6 and today just wasn't Kenny Rogers' day.

I wish I had more time but I really need to start packing for a business trip this week so here's a quick recap of the weekend.

Friday night was wet and cold and miserable unless you were smart enough to snag a seat underneath an overhang on the lower level. The Sox dedicated the new 2005 WS monument. It's pretty cool. The ceremony though was a bit odd. Whoever thought it'd be a good idea to have a card carrying cub fan there to help dedicate it should probably have their head examined along with the guy who thought bikers want to hear Elton John in concert. WTF?!!??!!!?? Really? Somebody's wearing bad idea jeans if you ask me...and where was Mayor Daley?

On Friday, Sox offense just couldn't get rolling and Thome got kicked out for arguing balls and strikes. Sox lose 2-5. Yeah, Thome got kicked out, only the third time in his career. Can't wait to see the Dugout on that one.

The universe was righted on Saturday as the Sox blanked La Tigre 7-0 and Gavin Floyd missed a no-no by 5 very soggy outs. Sunday was beautiful and dry but again cold as the Sox won 11-0 thanks mostly to two grannys from Paulie and Crede.

Yeah, this was Crede's second slam of the week! Josh who? Seriously, I was SOOOOOO annoyed midweek when someone on the radio was making some noise about all the Sox fans wanting Crede out of town this winter. Um, really? Not this Sox fan and not the majority of Sox fans I know. It infuriates me how the media (local and national) play up stories and then say it's what the fans wanted. No, actually, it's what stupid people who have to fill up time in front of a mike, on camera or on paper say when they don't know what to say. A few dumb people who can't think for themselves may fall prey to their noise but most Sox fans did not want to get rid of Joe Crede out of the gate. A few years ago, yes, a lot of Sox fans wanted Crede out of town but to KW and the coaching staff's credit, they were patient with him and it's paid of with a WS trophy and so far an exciting start to 2008. I thought about it as he took his curtain call this afternoon. I love the guy. I love his defense, I love his presence at the plate (clutch hitting). I clearly remember a handful of years back with each painful at-bat, I was confused. He was starting to make some good defensive plays but then it seemed he couldn't get a hit to save his life, he was the automatic out. I didn't get it. Why was he up in the majors and/or he'd make a good play and I'd think OK, next at bat will be it for him. Nope. I wish he would have had surgery in the 2006 offseason, perhaps 2007 wouldn't have been so bleak but it's done and over and TG so far looks as though this will be a much better year.

I was talking to a co-worker this week. He said, "Sox fans are way too excited..." I can't speak for everyone. I am excited but a lot of it is just that so far AND I KNOW IT'S EARLY it looks like 2007 is over so a lot of my excitement is actually relief. I know I'm sounding like a broken record but it was just plain painful and I'm hesitant to enjoy what I'm seeing, I'm hesitant to watch a game, I'm still nervous with nearly every pitch and at-bat. We appear to have some offense again, some/most of the starting pitching is working, we have been able to get out of the 8th inning, half the starters are not making their Major League debut. Yeah I'm excited and who wouldn't be excited when their team spends the first two weeks proving "the experts" wrong??!!! Now, all that being said, I'm not saving up for my post season ticket deposit. It's April. There is a long road ahead of us but I think there is nothing wrong with once again being excited about the White Sox.

Opening Day South Side

SarahN — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 01:03:00 GMT

Whooo Hooo!! Man, this morning felt like Christmas morning--without the 6 hour round trip drive through a blizzard both ways, no sleep cuz I'm cooking two dinners nearly completely by myself...OK, guess it's not like Christmas present but more like Christmas past when it was easy, fun and all about excitement--hopefully this is a little bit of Christmas Future too!!

It's soooo early and I know this. It's just refreshing. I'm still on pins and needles with every at bat and pitching change. I have renewed excitement and energy for the team and the game, funny what a few games do for ya. Bring on the OCD!

Really, it makes me nuts (the OCD). It doesn't come around til baseball season but when it's here, I'm a nut job--how about you? What do you do? Any rituals or OCD? Don't want to share mine as I'm afraid it'll negate everything (eventhough I know FULL WELL nothing I do will impact anything!)

JOE....CREDE....YES! OK, maybe he's made up for the 2 Es last night. Granny!! NICE! It's funny, I've been loooking at our line up and after Thome, Paulie and JD I think "great, easy outs coming up" but our 6th guy is hitting .500 and the 7th and 8th are both above .300. Again, refreshing. 2007 did a number on me. Now I'm actually excited to get to the bottom of the line up. Still a few too many left on base, which grinds me (no pun intended) but we are still winnning so I'll save my complaining til we don't.

I like Jeff Cox's engery but he needs to learn the players a bit more...I know it will come and yes, we have some ssssllllloooooowwww guys but I'm with him 50/50 on the calls for the runners to hold or go home at this point (maybe 60/40). It should come in time...hopefully it doesn't cost us anything in the meantime. Atleast he's been erring on the side of caution and we've still be winning.

Missed Gene Honda (announcer) today, it wasn't the same. It never is without him.

The Blackhawks made an appearance today at the park. Kane, Taser (Toews), Byfuglien, The Wiz and Co were all there complete with a quick bit featuring Kane and Toews on the ice wearing Sox hockey jerseys and Thome (I think) wearing a Blackhawks jersey at the plate. Gotta love Marketing, right?

It was SO nice to not see Santana and Torii Hunter and the like--there were more new names than familiar ones in the line up. The pirahna's are still in effect and deserve concern, luckily the White Sox brought their fishing poles today. Hope it continues.

Would like to say more about today's game and to have my pix uploaded by now but it's been a long day and I'm drained and somehow I'm supposed to go to work tomorrow.

The boys are back!!

Meow-ch

SarahN — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 04:35:00 GMT

Wow, is DET hurting. They are going to win a game some time but considering their next series is in BOS I will be surprised if it's anytime in their next series.

It's kind of funny. Have you taken a look at the 1st week standings? Yes, I KNOW it's only the first week. I've got a box full of 162 tickets for 81 games, there is a looooong way to go, they will not stay this way but I get SO tired of all the pre-season predictions esp. when it's all (almost all) the same names year after year. If you don't know much about baseball and/or believe everything said on ESPN you'd wonder why some teams bother to show up. The AL East is currently lead by, of all teams, Baltimore. Following behind in second is Toronto (who just swept BOS), then Tampa Bay, NY and in last place is Boston--funny, eh? The Central is just as entertaining, in this order they are Chicago and KC tied for first (!!), CLE, MIN and DET. In the NL East ATL and FL are tied for first then it's Washington, NY and Philly. The NL Central MIL and STL tied for first, then CIN and the rest. As I said, I know this won't stay this way, it just feels good to see some of the "experts" already backpedaling. Just goes to show it doesn't matter how good teams look on paper or what the guy says on TV, you still have to play the game and KEEP EVERYONE HEALTHY!!

Friday's Sox game in DET was the "battle of the bad" between Contreras and Robertson but then DET showed they had worse on Sat. with the D-Train, who was more like Thomas the train, he could not find the strike zone to save his life. He actually had a no-no going for 6 but I think it's because he was just throwing balls. He walked 7 guys.

Saturday the Sox were behind for a bit and I thought to myself, " well, we knew the Tigers would have to start winning and the Sox as much as I'd like the Sox to win every game, they won't..." but then they started scoring and caught up and then pulled ahead and I realized that it's not 2007. The extra work done in Spring Training and the additions to the roster are giving this team much more spunk in the form of offense. JD, Thome and AJ are off to great starts at the plate and new Sox player Carlos Quinten not only showed off his arm Sat. with a GREAT throw from left that was dead on to Paulie to get the runner out (in turn made the Kitties think twice about running when the ball was in left the rest of the weekend). He's also got 7 RBIs in his first 6 games as a Sox player. Many of the guys have missed HRs by a skotch and with that big Tiger outfield you know if they were hit elsewhere they could have been over the wall.

Also evident is the new bullpen. Linebrink and Dotel have been good as has Boone Logan--much improved from last year. I'm still eating fingernails when anyone goes in but do you blame me? The pen was dead on at the beginning of last year and then well...maybe it's time I just stop talking about it.

It was good that Floyd had his first start vs. DET as he pitched well against them last year and I think that probably helped him this first outting and thankfully Buehrls 2nd outting was much better than his first, which was to be expected.

Other things I liked about this first week: Ozzie yelling at Contreras in the dugout between innings (I'm tired of this lights out guy sucking and people seeimingly tip-toeing around him). Crede is back, Alexei Ramirez, all reports on life in the clubhouse rave about the chemistry, the team has life again. I could do without the crazy beards of Boone, Bobby, Swish and Hall but if they are working then I'm not complaining!

Tomorrow is the home opener. I almost feel like I should be hanging up my Christmas stocking. It's like Santa is coming tonight. Tomorrow is the day!!!!! I'm so happy. I can't wait to get to the park. I can't wait to hear the line-up announced. See the video, the fly by, I can't wait to cheer on the 2008 White Sox!!!!!!!! It's gonna be great!!!!!

Diggity Danks

SarahN — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 23:48:00 GMT

Whew. It feels so good to win, never gets old! I know it's only the first series and who wants to ever get swept but in the very beginning of the year--I think it would have just hurt a little bit more if we didn't manage to pull out at least one! I'm not saying it would have been the end of the world. I wasn't going to return my tickets, just sucks to lose is all regardless of how good the pitchers are that you're facing.

First inning and both teams went "up and out in order". Second inning, nearly the same with one walk allowed to CLE. In the first Danks and Paulie had a great play to get Sizemore out on a bunt. Flat out sprint to first between Danks and Grady. Paulie picked up the ball with a light toss over to Danks who was on the move. It was timed perfectly and they got him. Danks also had two first pitch outs. Swish had a good play for the second out in the 2nd...it's was almost down right grindy. (ahem)

Juan Uribe homered on the first pitch in the top of the 6th to put the Sox on top 1-0. Bottom of the 6th the Indians got their 1st hit and advanced the runner to 2nd on a sac bunt. As I was listening at work today my nerves were really starting to go...and my new co-workers are clearly not used to me during baseball season...it will be funny to see how long it takes them to "settle in" with it. Danks makes it out of the inning safely.

Are we ever going to be able to bunt? AJs was fair but went dead in the 7th which allowed an out at 3rd but somehow he managed to get himself safely to 1st but it was for naught as Quinten grounded into a double play right after him.

Danks started the 7th and he walked Hafner who eventually came around to score thanks to a double by Garko (and thanks to JD's misread in right field--not much new there either. Don't get me wrong, I like him but JD is just ready to be a DH.) Score is tied at 1. Next batter JD and Swish collide in the outfield and CLE have two runners at 2nd and 3rd. Now this is at least the 2nd time we've seen this in three games. I know this is the beginning of the season but that is elementary baseball and really unprofessional and dumb. How hard is it to call for the ball?! Next play A. Cabrera slaps a ball right at Crede who can only block it and O. Cabrera THANKFULLY is there to pick it up and throw out the runner at first. Two outs.

Danks departs after a solid outting and Dotel comes in--what's up with those shoes?? Runners still at 2nd and 3rd, and I bite off the rest of the fingernails that somehow made it through the Wings/Hawks game last night. All I can think of is his last outting--ouch. First pitch strike. Deep breath and exhale. Swish makes a catch for three outs. Deeper breath and exhale of relief.

Westbrook is still on the mound for CLE and it's the top of the 8th, I'm thinking it's gotta be time to get this guy out of here. We might have a good little chance here to do something.... 1-0, 2-0 (yeah, it's our time...he's done...) 3rd pitch and YOU CAN PUT IT ON THE BOAAARRRRRD, YES! JOE CREDE! Sox 2 CLE 1 Sox put 2 aboard and Westbrook is out.

Linebrink comes in, I'm still nervous but he pulls it off! Three batters faced...and a flash of excitement as that means Big Bad Bobby's coming out next time!! HOOORAH!

Don't want to sound grumpy and don't want to complain, I'm very happy about the win and happy to have some of the new guys but I can't help but notice that a few things haven't changed. We still can't bunt, we still can't move guys over, still strand a lot, still hit into more double plays than I'd like and (I don't want to say it) but once again JDs looking old in right-sorry dude. He didn't look right for most of the first half last year, it did get better in the second part of the year but...whatever, we won today and I'm just going to be happy about that

Good to see Crede getting warmed up for Motown. He holds visiting HR record at Comerica...wouldn't want him showing up cold! Go Sox!

Rollercoaster...of Lo-ove....

SarahN — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 23:16:00 GMT

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!

I've kind of been draggin my feet on this season starting, wasn't feeling like I was ready to give up all my time but it's all back: insomnia, chills, goosebumps, elation, anxiety, passion, clenched jaw, desk pounding and the #(*&@^%* are flowing!

It's 2PM and after a lot of tinkering of my walkman's position in order to get an AM signal at my desk I found the suitable spot to be standing in my top drawer left open slightly and just in time as Gene Honda's voice came across the airwaves, up the wires of my earphones, out the speakers and sent chills through my body and goosebumps shooting out on my arms! Opening day baby!

How's it gonna go? CC's record vs the Sox is 14-3.

Swish is up and out on a 4-3 play, Cabrera walks and steals 2nd, up comes big Jim--really, CLE fans are STILL booing him??!! A hall of famer that obviously gave you some pretty amazing baseball AND probably did the most charity work in your town out of any athelete who's been there...all he gave to your community and you're still gonna boo him?? Well, guess his feelings aren't hurt that badly... HR! Sox up 2-0 top of the 1st! Woo hoo!

Buehrle's up and 1, 2, 3 Indians down. WOW! These seems too easy, I'm scared.

AJ comes up with a double but is left stranded...thanks Juan.

....And then it happens, I was having some serious 2007 Opening Dejavu. Buehrle crumbles. They bat around and 7 score? What? He can't get out of the 2nd? Massett comes in...PLEASE make a better showing than your last couple. I think to myself, "does he has a chance?" maybe his stuff doesn't look good in AZ but will be OK here? It's a nice sunny day in the mid 60s in CLE, maybe it'll be different. :) It was! He came through! He did great! Four and 1/3 innings, 48 pitches, 4Ks, no walks and allowed only two singles (both to Gutierrez).

In the meantime, Thome hits ANOTHER 2 run homer in the third and the Sox didn't give up, they end up scoring 8 total runs for the day (1 in the 6th and 2 more in the 7th to tie at 7 all!!!) Bases loaded in the top of the 8th and a really HORRIBLE call at the plate, Crede is called out with a phantom tag. It SO should have been 9 runs scored! UGH! ARE YOU KIDDING ME??!!

Dotel comes in, ends up giving up 3 runs by the time the 8th is over. JD homers in the 9th so the score is 8-10. AJ gets on base, steals 2nd and it's up to Crede. Last time he was up at bat he missed a home run by mere feet. Unfortunately it didn't turn out that way this time. He was popped up after a few pitches and that was that.

There were some other questionable calls against the Sox today but THE WORST was the phantom tag with Crede at home. That one hurt.

I don't want to start out the season with "at least" but I guess "at least" they didn't roll over, they didn't give up that easy, it looked different than last year--TG! It reminded me of that Sunday night game against Houston in June 06 where Guch went crazy. It was definitely a rollercoaster of a day.

*****************************
Brandon McCarthy was just put on the 60 DL, KC beat DET

Get well soon Jerry Owens!!! I'm glad you're back Joe Crede!!

I'm Baaa-aack....

SarahN — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 00:21:00 GMT

(written March 7 at MDW)

OK...The day finally arrives, the day I take my first trip to Spring Training. WOO HOO

It's actually felt more like a Monday morning than a Friday morning...you know those days where no matter how hard you try and how ready you think you are things are bound to go wrong. From losing my cell phone to the parking lot shuttle not running to my flight being delayed an hour due to weather in Pittsburgh--yeah, it's been one of those days. Somehow I've managed to keep a smile on my face. It's OK. I'm going to Spring Training (I think...)

Maybe one of the reasons I've kept a smile on my face is because Stone Pony himself was calling the game today on 670. I can't tell you how excited I am to have him in the booth this year! He is the best!

Danks is scheduled to be on the mound tomorrow and I look forward to seeing him. He looked good earlier this week.

As everyone's probably noticed I took the winter off almost completely. New job, family stuff and just the general need to chill/recharge, anyway, here we are. Got a big new tv for the away games and a DVR for those I have to miss because of work....but I'll probably have the radio on anyway to listen to Stoney.

Since I've got some extra time to kill here at the airport and I'm over people watching at this point here's a quick recap of my thoughts on the winter moves: Losing out on Torii Hunter, if Kenny would have paid $90 mil for 5 years I would have been pissed. He's good, but he's not that good! I've gone all this time disliking him so I'm happy to continue doing so. I can't bring myself to mention The Legend because I'm as tired of that as I am about those who STILL call in crying for BA. He is not worth what he was wanting. The ONLY good thing that could have come out of him coming back would be that it woulda shut all those idiots up who think he is as legendary as he thinks he is. Funny, guess I'll be seeing him tomorrow in a Giants uni.

If you don't know what we are getting out of Nick Swisher and Cabrera I probably don't want to talk to you.

I'm not so hot on Linebrink (to put it mildly) and I think a lot of other things remain to be seen (who's playing third, center, leading off, who will be the 5th starting pitcher, will MacDougal ever get some confidence or will Kenny be able to unload him somewhere, etc. etc.) What will Dotel bring to the table, this is the year we are supposed to see the benefit of his surgery. Which Contreras will show up? Did Richar hurt himself by not getting his visa on time--probably? Uribe is still here (argh). Is Toby Hall still going to suck? Did we even win any games he started/played in last year? Originally I was excited about the acquisition, that quickly changed after he got off the DL last year.

The Tigers have made some good moves but I think a lot of people are forgetting or ignoring some big off the field items that could impact the team. Sure it'll probably help the D-Train to have IRod behind the plate...he could reimmerge to his old self but Inge asked to be traded (is that ever a good thing when a player asks to leave?), Maggs will be dealing with Congress and Conseco claims, Sheff is a hot head, Kenny Rogers is old (IRod is/getting old) people are hurt (important people are hurt). Again, we'll see. Sometimes chemistry is all wrong, sometimes the best teams on paper suck (Ahem). Plus, you gotta stay healthy....and I'm not sold on their pitching. CLE will be tougher than DET.

As for the others (KC and MIN), I'm interested to see. Lots of new faces but that's not to say that they can't play ball, it's just how good can they play.

It's almost time to board, I'm out. Bring on the Boys of Summer!!

**********************************************************************

March 8, Sox vs Giants post game

What's up with all the crazy goatees in the Sox bullpen??
AJ looks like he lost some weight.
Scouts seemed particularly interested in Crede, Fields, MacDougal, Wasserman and Danks from what I could tell.
Mr. March (BA) is in full-effect.

It was a great day. Warm, sunny, White Sox on the field and an air show in the background. I was lucky enough to walk up and score a ticket right behind the scouts and wives (so you know it was a good seat!) I met some very nice people (Sox fans, Giants fans and even some Dodger fans) who all made the day more fun. Thanks to Karen (the Giants fan) who sent me her pictures--which were much better than mine!

Sox Pride

SarahN — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 23:54:00 GMT

I am extra proud to be a Sox fan today.

My afternoon began with a stop at the park to check out the new Legacy Brick Plaza. It's not completely done yet but they were putting up the monument today and since the sun was out and it's actually above freezing I stopped by to check it out. It's pretty cool, there are all the familiar 2005 WS pix etched on the monument, which is surrounded by lots and lots of bricks. Not all the pieces were visible due to the workers and machinery putting up the monument but quite a few are and I took pictures of the ones from people I know and some of the cooler ones I could get to. Enjoy! (I have to upload one pic at a time so I didn't put all 80 up, if you want to see more, send me an email and I'll send you to my Flickr page.)

I'm also proud, even more so, to be a Sox fan today because our team was selected to play in the Civil Rights Game today in Memphis. Because Both teams (Sox and Mets) are lead by minority managers and GMs they were invited to play one another. Early on it was pointed out not too many years ago they would have never had this opportunity. Special jerseys with only the city names in simple block letters and player numbers and the Civil Rights Game logo (no player names, no team logos) are being worn. Despite the chilly and wet weather, I'd like to be there.

The game is being held in Memphis because 40 years ago Martin Luther King traveled to there in support of striking sanitation workers. He was assisinated the day after he arrived. The National Civil Rights Museum is in Memphis and over the last day players have toured the museum. There was also a round table Friday night. The panel discussion, titled "Baseball and the Civil Rights Movement," included White Sox general manager Ken Williams; Mets general manager Omar Minaya; Martin Luther King III; Ambassador Shabazz, daughter of Malcolm X and Betty Shabazz; and Sharon Robinson, daughter of Jackie Robinson. Joe Cowley was on White Sox Weekly this morning and said it was 2 hours that went by like 20 minutes. He said it was pretty amazing. I think it's available on the Sox website. This morning JD held a youth summit.

Interesting fact: Jerry Reinsdorf, who grew up in Brooklyn, was at the pre-season game on April 1947, where Jackie Robinson was first put on the roster. When asked how Jackie Robinson's legacy impacted his hiring of KW and Ozzie he said: "Well, I have a black GM because he was the most qualified guy in my organization for the job...I don't think Jackie Robinson had a great impact on my views of the world because (the way) my parents raised me and people in Brooklyn looked at everybody as equal. What does it matter what your skin color is or whether you go to church or go to synagog, it's what kind of person you are and that's the way my whole life has been." Amen. Good on ya Jerry! :)

Just the Facts Ma'am, Just the Facts

SarahN — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 01:36:00 GMT

While I'd really like to have more time to comment on the latest Sox news I really only have time to call out the facts, unfortunately. First and foremost, Crede and Pablo have recently been reinstated to the active roster-WOOHOO!!!

Meanwhile Darin Erstad and Mike Myers' options for next year were declined. I have a lot of respect for Ersty (previously stated: "if it was the Erstad of old--the only player to win a Gold Glove for infield and outfield, I would definitely want him. I like intensity--OK, I identify with it, and he's definitely intense. There could still be some good stuff left in there but I kinda see him as Joe Montana in his KC years") that and a year plagued with injuries did not bode well for him. We are the same age and all I can say is it's not fun getting old and battling sports injuries.

I think I was right about Myers and I think it was the right decision to let him file for free agency. So far Pods and Cintron's options have not been picked up either. Whew. (Pods will probably have a banner year elsewhere just because that's the way things seem to figure.)

Lots of interesting headlines as of late for other clubs. I see that Detroit picked up Renteria so that's one SS off the list. Free agents are filing all over the place. Like I said, wish I had more time to comment. Maybe this weekend.

Did anyone catch the Cox interview on White Sox Weekly? Yowza.

Things That Make Ya Go Hmmmm

SarahN — Sun, 14 Oct 2007 05:00:00 GMT

A lot has happened since my last baseball post and before the big changes around town really go down, here's a little to get us caught up.

A weird coincidence: this was the Sox worst year since 1998 and I believe this is Cleveland's first ALCS appearance since 1998.

Bobby is the first pitcher in franchise history to post back to back 40+ saves.

The last weekend of the regular season the Sox had celebration ceremonies for Mark Buehrle's no-no, Bobby's tying of the Major League Record of consecutive batters retired and Jim Thome's 500th home run. They each got special rings, there were highlight videos on the jumbo-tron and a little extra fanfare. It was fun to see their families--esp. their kids and was a brief distraction from a horrible season.

AJ's contract was extended through 2010. Obviously, I'm happy despite the fact his numbers were down this year--whose weren't? I love the guy. That being said, I really hope the back-up situation improves. Toby Hall had a bad year too and it was much worse. It started out with an injury on the last day of Spring Training that put him on the DL. While he got to play eventually I was never happy to see him out there. I didn't ever feel comfortable when he was behind the plate. Runners wanted to go on him because they knew he had a bad shoulder. I didn't particularly care for the way he handled the pitchers and his offense...well, he finished with .207, 3 RBIs and 0 HRs. It was disappointing because after reading what I had in the offseason/pre-season I thought this would be a step up from The Widge and Sandy Alomar Jr. but this year proved otherwise. To top it off his last couple games were sprinkled with REALLY dumb base-running.

I thought Johnny Danks was great this year--all things considered. He did better than his record reflects and in the beginning of the year we had no idea if this kid could last a game, a couple games, much less most of the season. I think he did a great job and he seems to have the right attitude. Every time he was on the bump I felt like we had a chance to win. In fact, he should have had 3-4 more wins on his record. He pitched well enough to win, unfortunately our offense gave him nothing.

As for the other Sox pitchers not previously mentioned, Gavin Floyd finally appeared to be turning things around by the end of the season. Hopefully he's broken through a few layers and is over his problems. Lance Broadway looked good (on the mound and in general) ;) . Ehren Wasserman was impressive as a rookie. Javie was excellent. Contreras seemed to have turned himself around except we lost the last game of the year as badly as we lost the first game of the year. For those who haven't heard by now, the story goes that Contreras was served with divorce papers on Opening Day. To this guy, family is everything. He was a mess and the Yankees traded him to the Sox, a month later his family came to The States and he won 17 games in a row (this run was partially in 2005 so it includes postseason wins, which obviously carry a little more weight). I don't know what to think in regards to wanting him back. He's got a contract that is on the pricey side (esp. when he's not playing to his ability, obviously) and no one is going to want to take someone like that off our hands. If he finds a way to not bring his personal problems to the mound that's one thing but... Matt Thornton had a couple problems but overall I won't be disappointed to see him again next year. I don't want to see Mike Meyers. I think I was right. We need a few veterans in the 'pen but not this one. I also don't want to see Mike MacDougal. It sounds like the Sox still think there is something in there they can work with and while I know there is a reason they do what they do and I only sit in the stands, I'm not so confident on this one. To make matters worse he has such a violent delivery that he doesn't have a long pitching life as it is. Deliveries like Thornton, Jenks, and those of our starters are more smooth. Deliveries like MacDougals aren't conducive to a lot of years on the bump. Usually it can take longer for someone like that to heal when they are hurt, it probably adds to their chances of getting hurt too.

Someone else I don't want to see: Alex Cintron. His mind was never on the game, he had elbow/arm problems and usually his lack of defense ended up causing runs against us instead of his offense scoring runs for us. He had a tough year with family problems and had to go on the bereavement list a few times, which is unfortunate (and I dread the day when I lose my parents). It was just tough that Pablo, Pods and other utility guys were hurt and couldn't play so Ozzie wasn't left with much of a choice to throw him out there, probably when he shouldn't have been. Regardless, he wasn't that great to begin with. I'd rather not see him suit up in the South Side next year.

Speaking of Pods, I'm pretty sure: HE GONE. He had a banner year in '05 (but stole most of his bases in the first half...however, with the walk-off in Game 2 of the WS I won't hold it against him). There is this stat (sorry, I'm too tired to look it up) where his leading off seems to tie in directly with Sox wins and if I didn't see the numbers myself I wouldn't believe it but it's true. To watch the guy everyday--or when he's well enough to play--it's kinda hard to believe. I KNOW I won't miss his defense (at least I hope I don't, if I do, then we've got big troubles).

Erstad, if it was the Erstad of old (the only player to win a Gold Glove for infield and outfield), I would definitely want him. I like intensity--OK, I identify with it, and he's definitely intense. There could still be some good stuff left in there but I kinda see him as Joe Montana in his KC years.

There are the same rumors as always with the Angels wanting Paulie. In order for Kenny to give him up, though, it'd have to be a pretty sweet deal and then some.

Who else is there...Juan Uribe. Ugh. I'm not up for this but the short of it is he's a talented guy who doesn't always show up to play nor does he show up in shape. He's a great defensive guy (when he wants to be) and he can even put up some offense (when he feels like it). Come on, you are living the dream dude. How much money are you paid? He's very frustrating to say the least. It sounds like there's a strong chance he'll still be around though so I'm trying to prep myself for it. Why do I think so? There aren't a lot of SS available and Ozzie and Kenny sound like they still think they can get they can make him better. At least this question should be answered relatively soon as I believe they have to pick up his option w/in 10 days of the end of the postseason.

I believe that might be the same time-frame for ARod too--I could be wrong, I know one of them needs to be sorted 10 days after. Now, there are 5 or 6 NYY who say that if Torre is gone so are they. This will be interesting to watch "fer sure"--Rivera NOT a Yankee?! Do I want ARod to come to Chicago? No question he's one amazing ball player, many say the best in a long time. I don't dispute the numbers (how can you dispute fact?) BUT he does ABSOLUTELY NOTHING in the postseason. What's the deal? Seriously? How can someone be SO good in regular season and continuously fall flat on his face once October hits? Nothing with the Mariners, nothing with Texas and obviously zero with NYY (and after this INSANE year he's had??!!) I don't get it. I've also heard quite a bit of gossip in that he's not a good teammate. We've had enough cancer in our clubhouse. We don't need more (if that is in fact true)...and honestly, I don't care how good someone is, that kind of money is ridiculous (so is Ichiro's).

Centerfield? Well (deep breath), Aaron Rowand is now a god after his career year in Philly but it's good to see that they haven't lost their heads, he's not worth what he was asking for, in fact I thought it had to be joke when I heard it. With all that wall crashing is he seriously going to STILL be around in 6 years? The legend of Aaron Rowand lives on in some Chicago minds--BUT NOT HERE! Sure I was sad to see him go but it was more out of sentiment--were the Three Stooges being separated so soon?! The truth is, he made base running mistakes and the reason he had to make those crazy catches is either because he's not smart enough to read the ball off the bat or because he's looking for attention. Whichever it is it's not smart because how are you helping your team when you're on the DL? Yeah, he's intense and as I've said, I like intensity and if you aren't playing your guts out you shouldn't be there BUT you should also be smart about it. It's a fine line but there is one. Yeah, you should go all out and crash into the walls, dive and slide across the grass--that's what I pay to see but sometimes I think things could have been played a little smarter. All of these injuries piling up over the years will come back to haunt him too. Look at Vlad. Granted most of his problems were probably really rooted in playing on a bad field/surface but for those of us over 30 we know things don't work the same, even just the day-to-day things. That's not to say I'd be mad if he came back. I do like the guy, it's just that all the phone calls to pre- and post-game shows and White Sox Weekly and conversations I've heard around town have left me so sick and tired of hearing about the guy. He was good but he wasn't close to his legend.

Torii Hunter? Sure. He'd be great. He wants to play next to JD, he and Ozzie are friends and likes Chicago (the South Side...I heard an interview earlier this year, he was specific. Comiskey is a field that fits his style of play, he cannot play his game up north--neither can Rowand for that matter--you can't bounce off ivy and brick the way you do off padded walls. The ground down south is a lot more athlete friendly too.) Torii won't come cheap and he's 32 so I hope it's not a long contract if he does come our way. Kenny says there will be money for them to go after anyone they want. Guess we'll see what happens.

If nothing pans out and JO is back, honestly, I won't feel that bad (I'm trying to prepare myself for anything). He had a great rookie year. He was told what to change and he did, he has a good attitude, improved his swing and stole 32 bases (and he only played half the year). If nothing else he'd be a good bargaining chip...but I hope he gets to stay--even though I don't know where he fits right now. Seems we are too quick to get rid of young talent sometimes, which is something Ozzie and Kenny said they want to improve upon. Again, we'll see.

Some changes have already been made and it will be interesting to see what else happens--especially if there is a Rick Hahn-less Kenny Williams-- not only here but all over baseball. Is it me or does it seem like there is a little extra shuffling all over? So much to say about all of it (Cardinals, Royals, Baltimore--too much to mention here, etc., etc., etc.) but I'll leave it for another day. Although, for some reason this caught my eye the other day. Are they hoping a new name and logo will bring in more fans?

Lastly, there is going to be some shuffling of seats next year so to my White Sox Family: Jeff, Megan, Graham, Garrett, Jeff, Karen, Vern, Kathy, Grandma and Grandpa, Kevin, Kim, Justin and Jeffrey; It's been a lot of fun. You made the games more fun, they will not be the same without you and I will miss you. I hope we keep in touch and can still catch some games together or at least catch up somewhere around the park. Go Sox!

Red Rising

SarahN — Sun, 07 Oct 2007 04:59:00 GMT

It was SO weird to be getting ready for a hockey game with it being 86 degrees out. Seriously, it was really strange. I was in jeans with a lightweight T-shirt, socks and real shoes and I was so hot. I tied a long sleeve shirt and a vest around my waist in anticipation of the iced UC air and set off for the night.

I told my friends that we could just buy tickets there because no one ever goes to Blackhawk games except Red Wing fans. It's the truth. I go to all of these games every year. I was pleasantly surprised to see a lot of lines at the box office. It was great. We still managed to get fairly good seats and headed in. It was by far the biggest hockey crowd I have seen at the United Center in years. The even bigger surprise, the majority were actually Blackhawks fans.

Just before the National Anthem was of course a brief ceremony honoring recently deceased owner William Wirtz, which lead into a very rousing rendition of The Star Spangled Banner. Mention had been made of Wirtz's patriotism and his love of our National Anthem and how he loved cheering throughout the entire song. Fans on both sides did not disappoint. It was one of those special moments that you felt American pride. One of those times that you felt we are all on the same team, our military service is not in vain, the USA is THE BEST place on earth. For lack of better words...it was really cool. You wish there were more people there to share in that moment.

As I mentioned a few days ago...I am a Red Wing fan at heart. I felt like a traitor all day today, I went back and forth on what I was going to wear. Would I be incognito or wear one of my Wings shirts? The shirt tied around my waist tonight was my Wings shirt. Sorry Chicago. I seriously feel like a jerk but I love that team. That's not to say that I don't want the Blackhawks to be good because I do. If you read the entire post I mentioned earlier you will know this. It was just as strange to go to the game feeling some affection for both teams as it was going to watch hockey in summer weather, it's a rarity for me. Very odd. I mean, I really wanted the Wings to win but the only team I was really rooting for today was the Diamondbacks. DOH!

Anyway, the game begins...and did I mention the number of 'Hawk fans there? It's the first time in recent memory that there were actually more Chicago fans there than Detroit fans. I always get a kick out of the traditional "Let's go Red Wings, DE-troit SUCKS" chant. Tonight was no different but it's funny to hear when the UC is actually full and like I said, the scales were tilted to the 'Hawks side.

Less than seven minutes in Wisinewski and Drake throw their gloves to the ice and go at it! HA HA, it's hockey season baby!! WoooooHooo! It was pretty good and the refs let them have at it for a bit. It ended with both players and two officials lying on the ice. The best one of the game and I was surprised it came so quickly.

Red Wings struck first with a goal by Rafalski and then another by Lindstrom.
Their third was by Holmstrom. Zetterberg assisted on all three. Meanwhile, Ruutu, Wisinewski and former Red Wing, Robert Lang, scored for the Blackhawks. The first Hawk goal was what it was but I have to say the next two surprised me when they got past The Dominator. They didn't look that tough. I hope it's just a little rust and not a sign of things to come. I know it's only the second game of the season but please don't let this be the beginning of the end of an era. Hopefully I'm just overreacting but this is "the" innovator of goal-tending, this guy is amazing (OK, that shower picture is disturbing--sorry) and it will be a sad day in hockey when he's done.

The third goal hurt. Not because it was the game tying shot but because it was one that looked kinda easy to stop and because it was Robert Lang. :( Ouch.

I was saying just the other day that I actually felt good about the Hawks this year (not Stanley Cup good but an improvement from the last few years) because of Robert Lang and #1 draft pick, 18 year-old Patrick Kane. Well, I guess my feelings were validated tonight because not only did Lang have the game tying shot but Patrick Kane had the only goal in the second overtime shoot out and won the game for the 'Hawks.

It was a good game. Lots of excitement and really good to see Blackhawks fans out in force. I hope it keeps happening.

Thanks to Amanda and Gemma for going with me. I'm so glad we went and even happier that you had fun and want to go again!

Lord Stanley, Please Help Them

SarahN — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:50:00 GMT

The Chicago Blackhawks lost owner Bill Wirtz early this morning as he lost his battle with cancer. Before I go ANY further I want to say that in no way is it my intent to slander or appear disrespectful of a dead man whom I've never met. On top of it, I have lost family members and friends to cancer, I know it is dreadful. I know he was a charitable man and was a big reason we have the United Center today.

With that I will say that upon hearing the news of his passing my first thought was, "now maybe some decent hockey will be played in Chicago". Yeah, I'm sorry to hear of someones passing and would obviously be much happier if the Blackhawks had lost their owner to a sale instead of death but out of this sad event I hope comes a new beginning for the team. I have to think that in all likelihood ownership of the team will stay within the family but I really hope whoever it is takes this opportunity to turn things around.

IT IS INEXCUSABLE that an original six team be so bad for so long. I can't stand the fact that there are teams now that are named after tropical weather and Disney movies--THIS IS HOCKEY FOR CRYING OUT LOUD!!--and one of the oldest in the league can't even fill up their stadium once a year with their own fans?!!! To be honest--and probably slightly unreasonable--if you are in the US but can't jump in your car and be in Canada within a few hours or so you should not have a hockey team (UGH, with the exception of Colorado of course, even though I HATE the #$^&%*@$# stupid Avalanche--oops, and now you know my dirty little secret...I love me some octopi!!! ) If snow and real winter weather is not an expected part of your geographical climate, you should not have a hockey team. The mere thought of the Carolina Hurricanes makes me want to vomit fire on kittens. What do Dallas, Florida and Nashville know about winter?! IT KILLS ME when these sorts of teams do well and stupid Blackhawk owners don't even let their home games be televised!!!! WTF?!??!!!

COME ON, for the sake of the Original Six, Chicago Stadium, Bobby Hull and Stan Mikita TURN THIS FRANCHISE AROUND!!! PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!