tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56500678724573244122024-03-19T07:54:47.807-04:00Phillies BuntsJay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.comBlogger325125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-60312189283192011262019-04-11T14:41:00.002-04:002019-04-11T14:41:34.123-04:00<blockquote style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe WP", "Segoe UI WPC", Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px;" type="cite">
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Hello Buntamaniacs! It's been forever since my last post. I think my last piece was about Cliff Lee to give you a time frame. So..Let's jump right in.<div>
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WE GOT HARPER!...WE GOT HARPER! Could this off season have gone any better? Segura, McCuthchen, Realmuto and the $330 Million Dollar Man. Wow! If you predicted that kind of talent coming here your friends would sit you down for an intervention. And could Bryce Harper be any cooler? He has really embraced this city. So much for "He wants to play on the West coast", "He wants to stay in DC", "He wants to opt out after 3 years". So glad all that rumor mill was nonsense. He is here for 13 years, let's enjoy! </div>
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As someone who has suffered some pretty lean years down at Citizens Bank Park, I can say the bandwagon is filling up. The ballpark has been electric so far. Lines, lines and more lines...And that's just for the Men's Room. Since CBP is the new hot spot again, the wife and I took my 8 year old son and 4 friends to Sunday's matinee vs the Twins. It was the Birthday Boy's request.</div>
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First things first, if an 8 year old gets away from you, saying "He's wearing a red Harper t-shirt" is not very helpful to the search party. Harper, Harper everywhere. I'd say 80% of all patrons are wearing a freshly printed Harper T or jersey. It is a sea of 3s. There is still a spattering of Howard, Utley and the occasional Werth but not like in years past. The future is here.</div>
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The staff at CBP needs some training. They may not be use to the volume of fans if they are new but they should know where the Sunblock stations are. I asked no less than 5 employees where a station was and they were either clueless or very vague. I even asked in the First Aid room, they looked at me like I asked them if going with Neris as our closer was a good idea. Weak sauce, get it together people. </div>
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The beer selection may be off. I did not embibe as I had a bunch of kids to watch but it seems that the selection is down from years past. I need more research but that is for a future post.</div>
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The Yard! The perfect spot to corral 6 kids and not worry too much. Our group was pretty good, we got to see 6 innings from our seats. They got itchy so we were at The Yard later in the game. It was cool to see the reaction of 100 kids when Hoskins hit that go ahead Home Run. The wiffle ball field went nuts! Seeing them jump up and down, going crazy as they saw it on the big screen made our day. Also, a public service announcement...Attention helicopter parents, you DO NOT need to be on the field with your kids as they shag wiffle balls. Kids only! Cut the cord already! </div>
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Lastly, my personal pet peeve. Wearing jeans on a sun soaked day is gross. Yesterday was borderline but let's break out the shorts from June on.</div>
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RING DAT BELL!!! BELIEVE THE HYPE!!! LET'S GO PHILLIES!!!</div>
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Keep It Classy, Philly!</div>
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DB29</div>
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cj hoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07648365505302839179noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-41039413647255699142019-04-04T07:47:00.000-04:002019-04-04T07:47:29.031-04:00<blockquote style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe WP", "Segoe UI WPC", Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px;" type="cite">
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View From the Left Coast by a Lefty: Expectations<br /><br /><br />Wow, been a long time since I could barely wait for Opening Day. Anybody who says they don't have expectations this year is full of it. This is the best lineup the Phils have fielded in nearly a decade. I was beginning to think there might not be a chance for another World Series in my lifetime if there was another 25 year wait. But Mr. Klentak came through with a giant assist from Monty, his wife, and their plane.<br /><br /><img alt="" data-custom="AAMkADMzZjJiNTQ3LThkMzAtNDQyZC1iNTk0LWNkMThmOWNhNmUxMgBGAAAAAAAOM9tS1s4WQ70UB8Xzy4LYBwAYnV3qdoUsSo3zkeQSB2OrAAo5ESagAAAiBDLwIJrMT7SaRlQoio58AAPyBOvdAAABEgAQAGzG5x71djBOpSgD%2BIzA%2Fm4%3D" originalsrc="cid:QNvo2UrbUEk3Vy4d2ULQryF@e44.ehosts.com" src="https://wvwmail.wvwsd.org/owa/service.svc/s/GetFileAttachment?id=AAMkADMzZjJiNTQ3LThkMzAtNDQyZC1iNTk0LWNkMThmOWNhNmUxMgBGAAAAAAAOM9tS1s4WQ70UB8Xzy4LYBwAYnV3qdoUsSo3zkeQSB2OrAAo5ESagAAAiBDLwIJrMT7SaRlQoio58AAPyBOvdAAABEgAQAGzG5x71djBOpSgD%2BIzA%2Fm4%3D&X-OWA-CANARY=YS4EQ2GqtEiJOii7A7k1vyANvRnzuNYIAv99NIw9--T1GZbfn879a1UUILGidK_ecH6Og5CDutQ." style="display: inline; height: 241px; width: 210px;" /><br /><br />This lineup is stacked with the perfect aquisitions. I honestly think the key pickup was Realmuto because it helped sign Harper big time. Doesn't hurt that he is arguably the best catcher in baseball. The trade for Segura was also key because it rid the team of Santana and Crawford, adding a proven all star and allowing Hoskins to return to 1B. McCutchen was also a great pickup that leads to lineup flexibility. But the real key is the last 3 hitters. It's time for Odubel to get smart and mature and really show his talent. He can be a top 10 hitter. If Cesar cuts down his strikeouts he too can be an all star. However Franco has the chance to cement everything. It's time he realizes if he cuts down his swing he can be as dangerous as Hoskins and use the entire field. If he reverts back to swigning out of his helmet then Klentak will be looking for a third baseman by the end of June.<br /><br />The bench has the potential to be great. As long as Kapler doesn't try to be Tony Larussa and average 2 double switches a game it is more than adequate. That said, somebody *PLEASE* burn that damn notebook. Side note: Knapp takes the next step... he is ready.<br /><br />With all of this it's still pitching that will decide the season. This rotation is markedly better than the one the WS champs had. Nola is Nola. If Arrieta comes even close to his Cy Young form he'll earn his money. Pivetta, Eflin, and Eickhoff are ready for the next step. A fast start is necessary to install confidence in the kids who are really due to step up. With Robertson and Seranthony Closing should not be an issue. The rest of the pen is solid(on paper) and should be one of the tops in baseball. That said, the biggest question mark is Velasquez. What do you do with him? He folds with runners on base and a high pitch count gets even higher. Do you make him a reliever? Do you pull an Ankeil and make him an outfielder? He is a great athlete and was a stud hitter in high school. Who knows with him?<br /><br />All in all this all leads to one thing... EXPECTATIONS. Mine are so high I even may be able to see comebacks here by Kornhole, DGirl, and maybe even DB29. Nah, never gonna happen. I do expect at least 1 or 2 Wriz Wednesdays this year because baseball is back and in the air. The Bank will be a lot more crowded and louder(hopefully) than previous years. Philly demands a winner. I demand a winner. And just maybe this team can deliver. #BelieveTheHype #LetsGetBunted<br /><br /><br /> Bill S/aka netfather</div>
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cj hoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07648365505302839179noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-73528708194047996052019-03-27T07:53:00.000-04:002019-03-27T07:53:01.533-04:00Night Before Opening Day 2019<img alt="Image result for phillies santa claus" src="https://thatballsouttahere.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/6/files/2015/12/phillie-phanatic-santa-claus-mlb-arizona-diamondbacks-philadelphia-phillies1.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
‘Twas the
night before Opening Day, when all through the park<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Not a
creature was stirring, not even a lark;<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
The bats
were all hung by the helmets with care,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
In hopes
that the Phillies soon would be there;<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
The fans
were nestled all snug in their beds,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
While
visions of a parade danced in their heads;<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Mom in her
Hoskins jersey, and I in my cap,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Had just
settled down for a long Spring nap,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
When out on
the field there arose such a clatter,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I sprang
from my bed to see what was the matter.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Away to
Citizen’s Bank I flew like a flash,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Tore up 476
and almost near crashed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Phillies
Bunts staff was blogging; we’re the best in the biz!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
With Joe S
and Frapples and CJ and Wriz<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Bryce
Harper’s a Phillie, the consummate pro<b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Unlike Manny
and Trout, he knew where to go<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
When, my
wondering eyes saw the mound and the bases<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
With our
young core, plus some new faces<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Along with
Bryce, there’s Realmuto, Segura and Cutch<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
With Franco
& Hoskins are lineup’s straight clutch<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
More rapid
than the Eagles Gabe’s courses they came,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
And he whistled,
and shouted and, called them by name,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
“Now, Nola!
Now, Eickhoff! Nick Pivetta too!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
On Vinnie
and Jake to round out the crew<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
From the
dugout! To the top of the wall!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
They dashed
away! Dashed away! Dashed away all!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
As dirt
kicked up before the wild hurricanes fly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Scotty is
back while Quinn’s in Lehigh <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Kruky and
T*Mac were calling the game,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
‘Boy we miss
Harry’; Oh! What a shame,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Franco is
back, for now anyway<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
We open this
season at home verse the Braves<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
As I drew in
my head, and was turning around,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Aaron was
set and took to the mound.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
He was
dressed in a throwback, from his head to his foot, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
And the
strength of his arm could throw a shot put;<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
The Mets
overrated; the ‘Gnats playoff is slop;<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
The Marlins
are played out like the Braves tomahawk.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Three up and
three down as JT made the calls!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Two
strike-outs, a pop-out, and only one ball!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Gabe is all
tanned with his teeth pearly white<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
And the plug
will be pulled on clubhouse FortNite<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Robertson signed,
the bullpen is stacked<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Herrera,
Hernandez and Williams are back!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
The rebuild
is over, no longer in trouble<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
NL East
Champs? We’re right on the bubble<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
We’re young
and we’re talented and don’t forget <i>Bolder</i>,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
The phuture
is now standing <i>shoulder to shoulder</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Believe the
Hype! Bunts got shirts just to prove it<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
If you’re
not on the ‘wagon then step-off and move it<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
They laughed
at the Eagles, the Sixers & process<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Now it’s our
turn to show them we’re bosses!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
But tonight
we’re in first, like the rest of the teams<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
And all we
can do is have positive dreams<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Can’t wait
til tomorrow; a beer I’ll be squeezin,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
“Good Luck
Philadelphia, and to the fans a great season.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<br />cj hoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07648365505302839179noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-41450042427910920932018-03-27T13:48:00.002-04:002018-03-28T11:24:16.526-04:00The Night Before Opening Day<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<img alt="Image result for creepy santa pictures" src="https://i.pinimg.com/originals/0a/52/5e/0a525e06b3438aec96448b64faf00e2a.jpg" /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
NO NEED TO BE SCARED THIS SEASON!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
‘Twas the
night before Opening Day, when all through the park<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Not a
creature was stirring, not even a lark;<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
The bats
were all hung by the helmets with care,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
In hopes
that the Phillies soon would be there;<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
The fans
were nestled all snug in their beds,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
While
visions of a parade danced in their heads;<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Mom in her
Hoskins jersey, and I in my cap,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Had just
settled down for a long Spring nap,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
When out on
the field there arose such a clatter,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I sprang
from my bed to see what was the matter.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Away to
Citizen’s Bank I flew like a flash,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Tore up 476
and almost near crashed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Phillies
Bunts staff was blogging cuz yo! that’s our biz<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
With Joe S.
and Hood and CEO Wriz<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Joe
reporting on Facebook, Wriz is on twitter<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
We put
Phillies Nation right in the <i>toilet</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
When, my
wondering eyes saw the mound and the bases<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
With our
young core, plus some new faces<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Gabe Kap’s our
new skipper he’s tan and all shredded<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
And we
picked up an ace in one Jake Arrieta<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
More rapid
than the Eagles his courses they came,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
And he
whistled, and shouted and, called them by name,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
“Now, Nola!
Now, Eickhoff! Nick Pivetta too!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
On Vinnie
and Ben to round out the crew<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
From the
dugout! To the top of the wall!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
They dashed
away! Dashed away! Dashed away all!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
As dirt
kicked up before the wild hurricanes fly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Now that
Scotty got paid, Quinn’s back at Lehigh <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Kruky and
T*Mac were calling the game,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
‘Boy we miss
Harry’; Oh! What a shame,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Franco is
back, for now anyway<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
We open this
season away at the Braves<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
As I drew in
my head, and was turning around,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Aaron was
set and took to the mound.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
He was
dressed in a throwback, from his head to his foot, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
And the
strength of his arm could throw a shot put;<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
The Mets
overrated; the ‘Gnats playoff is slop;<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
The Marlins
are played out like the Braves tomahawk.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Three up and
three down as Jorge made calls!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Two
strike-outs, a pop-out, and only one ball!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Carlos is
here to offer Rhys some protection<o:p></o:p></div>
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Gabe’s got
coconut oil to grease his <i>sore shoulder<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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Neshak
re-signed, the bullpen is stacked<o:p></o:p></div>
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Herrera,
Altherr and Williams are back!<o:p></o:p></div>
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The rebuild
is over, no longer in trouble<o:p></o:p></div>
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The 2<sup>nd</sup>
Wild Card? We’re right on the bubble<o:p></o:p></div>
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We’re young
and we’re talented and don’t forget Bold,<o:p></o:p></div>
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The phuture
is now cuz we’re no longer old<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hungry dogs
run faster just ask Jason Kelce<o:p></o:p></div>
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We will be
ready once our pitchers get healthy<o:p></o:p></div>
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They laughed
at the Eagles, the Sixers & process<o:p></o:p></div>
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Now it’s our
turn to show them we’re bosses!<o:p></o:p></div>
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But tonight
we’re in first, like the rest of the teams<o:p></o:p></div>
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And all we
can do is have positive dreams<o:p></o:p></div>
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Can’t wait
til tomorrow; dress warm cuz it’s freezing,</div>
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“Good Luck
Philadelphia, and to the fans a great season.”</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
cj hoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07648365505302839179noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-5838728973526256072017-10-02T18:22:00.000-04:002017-10-02T18:22:43.500-04:00View From the Left Coast by a Lefty: Done and Done View From the Left Coast by a Lefty: Done and Done<br />
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I know to many this season can't possibly be over yet. But guess what, it's been six months already and the Eagles are on the verge of a really good month which wasn't really expected. To even more(like me) it's only 4 days until the NHL season begins(go Flyers mofos). Since the beginning of the season so much shit has changed I don't know if it's possible to even cover it in one sitting but I'll try like hell.</div>
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Thankfully this season the front office finally embraced the term rebuild. For my mind it took them way too long to start bringing up the kids, but bring them up they did. And also finally they realized Pete was not the answer at manager. Better late than never as the saying goes. So now, Mr. Klentak, the pressure is all squarely directly on you. The second half of this season shows that with a bit of tweaking next year can be *<b id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6106">VERY</b>* interesting.</div>
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I'll start with manager... go wild with possibilities but to my mind Dusty Wathan at age 44 could be perfect. NO Wriz, he is not Sandberg reincarnated. He has proved he can win with kids at AA and AAA, especially this year. That the Pigs made the playoffs losing their best 6 players is a tribute, besides the fact he is the all time leader in wins in Fighten Phils history. Then go to the coaching staff. If the Phillies don't keep Bowa I may have to root for the Dbacks permanently. McClure is so so, along with Samuel and Morandini. Matt Stairs is the best hitting coach in a long stretch. You can tell he cares. Since the bullpen has come along I'm on board with <span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6107" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;">Rick Kranitz. I think this year is Chooch's last as a player and can't imagine anyone better to make Alfaro into a top tier catcher. If there is any way possible they need to add Utley as a coach somehow, some way next year too.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;">And now the fun begins... what will the roster be like? Say buh-bye to Kim, Nava, Fien, Perkins,</span></span></div>
<span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #222222;"><div class="yiv0165978317MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</span><div class="yiv0165978317MsoNormal">
<span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;"> Blanco and Stassi and probably more. As much as I like Ty Kelly as a person he basically sucks too. Piece by piece we can go this way:</span></span></div>
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<div class="yiv0165978317MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6053">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6090" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;">Starters: Nola</span></span></div>
<div class="yiv0165978317MsoNormal">
<span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;">2-5 : wide open. What do you think of the Henderson Alvarez project? To me it's intriguing. Rest of the kids play out in spring training.</span></span></div>
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<div class="yiv0165978317MsoNormal">
<span style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;">Pen: big improvement over the season. Love Morgan and Milner. Garcia and Neris need to quit jerking the ball to the LH batter's box. Neris needs to relax.</span></span></div>
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<div class="yiv0165978317MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6089">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6088" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;">Catcher: Alfaro is the man, especially if Chooch can make him a real back stop and cure his laziness behind the plate. Gimme Knapp as backup. Will miss Rupp the man and dugout leader. I still love him but this is no time to look back.</span></span></div>
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<div class="yiv0165978317MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6055">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6054" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;">Outfield: Altherr, O'Double, and Williams left to right. No need for a FA bat, save the $$$$ for pitching. Bench can be mix and match.</span></span></div>
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<div class="yiv0165978317MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6084">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6083" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;">Infield: here is where the fun really is and the shit will fly. I make no bones, I love Galvis. If he doesn't win a gold glove this year a hit needs to be taken out on the voters. That being said he and Hernandez should be given a chance to play 1000 games together like Rollins and Utley.. Hernandez is the best leadoff hitter they've had in years. That being said I'm considering what several people have said during this last month of the season. I am not giving up on Franco. If someone, *<b>ANYONE</b>*, can get through to him to adapt like Adrian Beltre did he'll be the third baseman for years. Don't forget he's only 24. As Schmidt said when he was 24 he was just beginning to figure things out. Then going into the corners... 1B is Hoskins nuff said. 3B dayam... Crawford has shown he's every bit as good at third.. That brings a whole new argument. He's only 22 and for my money can hit better than Franco except for power. </span></span></div>
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<div class="yiv0165978317MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6109">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6108" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;">Super utility guy: Pedro Florimon. His health could determine both infield and outfield moves.</span></span></div>
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<div class="yiv0165978317MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6111">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6110" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;">X-factors: here we go. Crawford could open at SS next year, with Kingery at 2B. Kingery is ready for the big time. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJZd0AvNG28tODhB6EaWGiYrbUD4khVNla01ZeO7s0Fm1VUB0UOa52TNpAUdWF-HxsBbjbDf8KIBpSDqVb18y_7sDxT8r8UnlXpCoUOsREbw_pShHN3ULorR5Fz3NzESZtCakjhYQHD8/s1600/Kingery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJZd0AvNG28tODhB6EaWGiYrbUD4khVNla01ZeO7s0Fm1VUB0UOa52TNpAUdWF-HxsBbjbDf8KIBpSDqVb18y_7sDxT8r8UnlXpCoUOsREbw_pShHN3ULorR5Fz3NzESZtCakjhYQHD8/s1600/Kingery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="background-color: white;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJZd0AvNG28tODhB6EaWGiYrbUD4khVNla01ZeO7s0Fm1VUB0UOa52TNpAUdWF-HxsBbjbDf8KIBpSDqVb18y_7sDxT8r8UnlXpCoUOsREbw_pShHN3ULorR5Fz3NzESZtCakjhYQHD8/s320/Kingery.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><br />
<br />
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<div class="yiv0165978317MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6080">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6079" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;">Trade pieces: this is the whole ball of wax. Phillies could be looking at trading Joseph, Crawford, Galvis, Hernandez, Kingery, Franco, Rupp, Knapp, and who knows what else. Remember this is entirely my opinion even though it is a shitload better than most of the Phillies' writers. For that matter if they had listened to me 4 years ago Howard might still be a force. Yeah well, I'm a legend in my own mind anyway.</span></span></div>
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<div class="yiv0165978317MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6058">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6057" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;">There you have it, 2017 summed up At this moment it's 4-3 Mutts in the 7th(make that 4-4). To Jay Wriz, Pres and CEO, if this piece doesn't land on the blog consider it my last you lazy bitch lol. CJ, how the hell do you put up with him? DB29 is nothing but you? Til next year(maybe)...</span></span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1506981725277_6075" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: border-box; background-image: none; background-origin: padding-box; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: auto; color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;"> Bill S aka/netfather</span></span><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
Jay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.com41tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-26352098900283948472017-04-18T16:14:00.000-04:002017-04-18T16:14:06.034-04:00 View from the Left Coast by a Lefty: Checkin' In<br />
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<b><span style="background-color: black; color: white;"><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI", sans-serif;">V</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">iew from the Left Coast by a Lefty: Checkin' In<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglDzi37vZ7ArwV2OMmdepEiFMg9X8r9clIzAqJcFAr0ktwAB0Q_hB4DRk2OJjpHhh6-VQur6Jd4VDe7LSp7o32cepHXwl8OR8xIf_sqHmh3bdg05SbadOWkavXLUAlerCjqCVj-4zraOg/s1600/scardefeld.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglDzi37vZ7ArwV2OMmdepEiFMg9X8r9clIzAqJcFAr0ktwAB0Q_hB4DRk2OJjpHhh6-VQur6Jd4VDe7LSp7o32cepHXwl8OR8xIf_sqHmh3bdg05SbadOWkavXLUAlerCjqCVj-4zraOg/s320/scardefeld.png" width="320" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: inherit;">I intended to write this a week
ago at least. Laziness and weird happenings have pushed it off until now. I
originally predicted 77 wins this year, with an uptick in possible excitement.
After 2 weeks or so the anticipation has drained a bit with lack of execution
covering the entire field and roster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: inherit;">A few statements of fact.
Pitching is mostly sub-par both starting and the pen. Overall I think McClure
is falling down badly. There is no difference between him and Dubee any more.
I'm wondering if this is a reflection of Pete Mackanin<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="yiv2611545275xbe">and if
so, there is an indication of why Pete has not been extended yet. I am a</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Dusty Wathan fan and as early
as it is in the season, it's not too early to wonder especially if the Pigs do
well just what may be in the not so distant future.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: white; font-family: inherit;">SO... with that in mind some
observations...</span><span style="font-family: Segoe UI, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGQIuONTcYnV6l-T9q1iVDjZbgocodIIL73_ObeAvf71uC_HY8JsAxKASJCnmiMBQeTRreDM_DYTW_FhFfiRSsUl2OBxz1vmH_kJL4i9jubwuSl59Wv037AO29nZduMRt5CEUQ61392Hg/s1600/Klentak2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGQIuONTcYnV6l-T9q1iVDjZbgocodIIL73_ObeAvf71uC_HY8JsAxKASJCnmiMBQeTRreDM_DYTW_FhFfiRSsUl2OBxz1vmH_kJL4i9jubwuSl59Wv037AO29nZduMRt5CEUQ61392Hg/s1600/Klentak2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When Bill talks Klentak listens</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2283" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;"><b>INFIELD</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2284" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2313" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">Hernandez - great leadoff
hitter, good hitter period. a possible perennial all star.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">Joseph - my pick to really come through this year. so far a tad
behind my expectations but has room to grow exponentionally.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">Galvis - gold glover, was robbed last year. love his less
exaggerated stance from both sides, will eventually become a steady .270+
hitter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">Franco - still wild at the plate. needs more discipline and to
learn to go up the middle and to right more. not losing his helmet on swings so
much but long way to go.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">Subs - Blanco is a first class utility man, Stassi if given
playing time could be a gold glover at first.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;"><b>CATCHER</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2312" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2311" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">Rupp - top shelf catcher, keeps
getting better.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2285" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">Knapp - good choice for backup,
and versatile. calls pretty good game.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2286" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2287" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;"><b>OUTFIELD</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2288" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2289" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">Kendrick - excellent
acquisition, professional. Lost nothing in swap for Ruf and Sweeney.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2290" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">Odubey - biggest enigma on the
team. also possibly the biggest potential still. good extension.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2291" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">Saunders - a letdown so far. he
also has upside I was counting on from Stairs but looking like the 2nd half of
last year so far.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2292" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">Nava - seems to be having a
renaissance of his early Boston career. no qualms with him. needs more AB's.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2293" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">Altherr - good upside and
athletic but looks like shit at the plate. expect so much more from him, maybe
cut down his swing a tad?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;"><b>PITCHING</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2310" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">This is what will make the
Phillies go or drown.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2309" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2308" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">Highlights: Hellickson is a
professional. Period. Nola looks to be coming back to his early showing a
couple years ago. Eickhoff still keeping up string of quality starts but
getting no support... no surprise. Phils only 3 errors all come during his
appearances.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2306" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">Lowlights: Velasquez has no
command. Needs a real pitching coach up his ass to be effective. Bucholtz just
sucks, bad signing. Being hurt could help bring back Eflin who I think can
finally be a major league pitcher.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2305" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2304" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">Pen: overall poor. in top 5 for
worst ERA in at least the NL if not all of baseball. Gnats have a worse ERA but
hit in the clutch to bail them out. Gomez has completely fallen apart since the
birth of his child. who knows if that affects him but he sucks now. Benoit is a
professional. Ramos and Neshek are holding their own.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2303" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2294" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">I don't know what else to say.
Is there potential? Yes. One good thing is this team seems to have chemistry,
even with the new pieces. Another is they don't quit. They have come back big a
half dozen times at least so far. To counter balance that, Phils are 0-5 when
leading after 7 innings. Draw your own conclusions all around.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2302" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2301" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">Last note, I now do not think
they'll win more than 73 games tops. That's it, Ft Pitt. Please Phillies prove
me wrong.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2300" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2299" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2295" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; padding: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="yiv2611545275msonormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2295" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: inherit;">
Bill S aka/netfather<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="yiv2611545275MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1492545216213_2295" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, "Lucida Grande", sans-serif; font-size: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
Jay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-28669987554615941052017-04-01T15:21:00.000-04:002017-04-01T15:32:36.756-04:00<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<img src="webkit-fake-url://75b6dbce-d87d-4137-a052-3307faf99a55/imagegif" /></div>
<div class="s2" style="line-height: 21.6px; text-align: center;">
<img src="https://pmcvariety.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/bad-santa.jpg?w=670&h=377&crop=1" /><br />
<div style="font-size: 18px;">
<b>.500 OR BUST</b></div>
</div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">‘Twas</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> the night before Opening Day, when all through the park</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Not a creature was stirring, not even a lark;</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">The bats were all hung by the helmets with care,</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">In hopes that the Phillies soon would be there;</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">The fans were nestled all snug in their beds,</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">While visions of a parade danced in their heads;</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Mom in her Franco</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> jersey, and I in my cap,</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Had just settled down for a long </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Spring</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> nap,</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">When out on the field there arose such a clatter,</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">I sprang from my bed to see what </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">was the matter</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">.</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Away to Citizen’s Bank I flew like a flash,</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Tore up 476 and almost near crashed.</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Phillies Bunts staff was blogging like there was no tomorrow</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">With a new outfield to get rid of our sorrow</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">When, my wondering eyes saw the mound and the bases</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">With</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> our young core plus some</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> new faces</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Mackanin</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> is back, another year on the scene</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">With a patch on his sleeve, RIP Dallas Green</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">More rapid than the Eagles his courses they came,</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">And he whistled, and shouted and, called them by name,</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">“Now, Nola! Now, </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Eickhoff</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">! And </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Hellickson</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> too!</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">On Vinnie and Clay how well will you do?</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">From the dugout! To the top of the wall!</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">They dashed away! Dashed away! Dashed away all!</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">As dirt kicked up before the wild hurricanes fly.</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Herrera got paid, the rest </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">expendable guys.</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Kruky</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> and T*Mac were calling the game,</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">‘Boy we miss Harry’; Oh! What a shame,</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">As I </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">drew in my </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">head, and was turning around,</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Jeremy was set and took to the mound.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">He was dressed in a throwback, from his head to his foot, </span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">And the strength of his arm could throw a shot put;</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">The Mets overrated; the ‘Gnats playoff is slop;</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">The Marlins are played out like the Braves tomahawk.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Three up and three down as Rupp made the calls!</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Two strike-outs, a pop-out, and only one ball</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">!</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">We got Franco protection thanks to one Howie Kendrick</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Who blasts balls out the park like a busted </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">appendix</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Michael Saunders has joined us, he’s good for twenty</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">And speaking of homeruns, Tommy Joseph is money</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">We might not be kings of Major League Baseball,</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">But soon we’</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">ll contend, </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">just need to wait </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">y’all</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Trust the process and attend all our mixers</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">At least we are not the 76’ers.</span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Our pharm team is juiced with stars of tomorrow,</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">From Crawford to </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Moniak</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> and Jorge </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Alfaro</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Made a bet with </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Wriz</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">, he owes me a case</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">We’ll strive for .500 and maybe 3</span><span class="s3" style="font-size: 7px; line-height: 8.399999618530273px; vertical-align: super;">rd</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> place</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">But tonight we’re in first, like the rest of the teams</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">And all we can do is have positive dreams</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Can’t wait </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">til</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> tomorrow; dress warm </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">cuz</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> it’s freezing,</span></div>
<div class="s2" style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">“Good Luck Philadelphia,</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> and to the fans a great season.”</span></div>
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cj hoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07648365505302839179noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-2410151408953687942016-08-30T15:43:00.000-04:002016-08-30T15:43:05.359-04:00View from the Left Coast by a Lefty: Chooch<div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
View from the Left Coast by a Lefty: Chooch<o:p></o:p></div>
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I don't know why I never did a piece on any of the other Phillies who left. Rollins and Utley came back, and got their deserved due. The all time hits leader and The Man. The fans got their chance to show the love, and show it they did. You will never hear walkup music for another non-Phillie, *<b>EVER</b>*. That song is my ringtone and every time my cell rings I think of Utley. Halladay and Lee were loved, but left injured. They were loved, but not to quite the same degree. I also hope Hamels comes back home to play before he retires as I don't think we'll play the AL West anytime soon. And I truly hope they give Howard the same respect in his last home game.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But this is about Chooch... where to start. An $8,000 pickup from the sandlots of Panama, when he came up nobody expected it to last very long. A true underdog who personified Philly, he worked his ass off to be an elite catcher. He didn't have to work at all to become one of the most loved and respected teammates as that came naturally. His kindness, class, and humility were always evident. The fans loved him from Day 1. He was the backbone of the pitching staff, working tirelessly to gain each pitcher's trust and pitch preferences. He called them HIS pitchers and took ownership of expectations and got results. He caught over 1,000 games for the Phillies joining Clay Dalrymple, Bob Boone, and Mike Lieberthal for that honor. In 08 and 09, World Series years, he caught every pitch of the playoffs and turned into one of the best and most clutch 8 hole hitters I've ever seen. No other 8 hole guy has ever influenced an offense as much.<o:p></o:p></div>
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They say the key to defense is be strong up the middle. In 80 it was Boone, Bowa, Cash, and Maddox. In 08 it was Chooch, Rollins, Utley, and Victorino. Nuff said. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I moved back to Phoenix in March of 02 after 5.5 years in Dallas. Every season I went to at least one game when the Phillies came to town. at behind their dugout, usually 20-30 back. Sat with all the other Philly fans. Have yet to go to a game like that and see them lose since 02 as well. In all those years one thing never changed... whenever Ruiz came to the plate, or got a hit or drove in a run, the faithful all rose together and yelled CHOOOOOOOOOOCH as loud and as long as they could. I don't remember any other player being called by name.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY6dnqWKIh9eDvn2pJzjdIKGeBSEyWe4eEe0g1cqUmhy17C8iLXOWoj6x-hGpT8LyPuEBXKG7q4vefZQ26xhXGLKjKdglFOUi3Nxyhkebyga65UVzUSP3X09yMMLgNu0ImsKLV3lnICQY/s1600/Bill_S.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY6dnqWKIh9eDvn2pJzjdIKGeBSEyWe4eEe0g1cqUmhy17C8iLXOWoj6x-hGpT8LyPuEBXKG7q4vefZQ26xhXGLKjKdglFOUi3Nxyhkebyga65UVzUSP3X09yMMLgNu0ImsKLV3lnICQY/s320/Bill_S.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 11pt;">There are certain people in everyone's life who directly or indirectly become unforgettable, and Chooch is one of them for me. To close I'm stealing a few lines from Inquirer columnist David Murphy: "What is his legacy? You know that old piece of clothing, with that long ago smell? Maybe that is Ruiz: comfortable, familiar, enduring, a vehicle for our memories."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 11pt;">Bill S aka/netfather</span></div>
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Jay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-27946025329111796792016-07-21T14:28:00.003-04:002016-07-21T14:28:54.420-04:00State of the Union? View from the Left Coast by a Lefty: State of the Union?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibB7HVPGKw7GagPmR4p_CVNxCOhRb-nNYTlIIxWP7S05qHU4Vx9mkLTERvryBozCpVkva1YVhLHOSH31UjJINvWUt3uulk9XLRBxGW4iShGRQEKvCVdmZsrMrn2WgmQ5iHp0RB01q-rfg/s1600/rupp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibB7HVPGKw7GagPmR4p_CVNxCOhRb-nNYTlIIxWP7S05qHU4Vx9mkLTERvryBozCpVkva1YVhLHOSH31UjJINvWUt3uulk9XLRBxGW4iShGRQEKvCVdmZsrMrn2WgmQ5iHp0RB01q-rfg/s320/rupp.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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No doubt about it Phillies this year are at least interesting to watch every day. Per the all star break they have the biggest improvement over last year in baseball. Bodes well for the rebuild, but it seems to me people are expecting more. The same old voices cringe when it's suggested that Rupp become a trade chip. Why not? I don't think any teams will be interested in Chooch and Rupp is on the rise. He's still young(27) and under control for another year. His only shortcoming is he's average at best throwing runners out on the bases. But if he goes to a contender they'll surely have better pitching which leads to less runners to throw out. He's a pro and that's hard to find these days.</div>
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Rather than post pros and cons I'm just going to kind of go through the roster with my own personal suggestions. If ya don't like what I print say so, don't be a wuss.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpUpMJZZKFVF2EdxOVcvezPP_MKtKENhvYumnNwzloDvWUc9TYzmcm_Os8JBoRsn0Na2KnfxTUucCySUALsdrFiC8J9jqDOyl9zPKOWG5GQyWav4wdU7E76VrUR7ldaNFfQwVj37_SKc/s1600/Ben_Lively.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpUpMJZZKFVF2EdxOVcvezPP_MKtKENhvYumnNwzloDvWUc9TYzmcm_Os8JBoRsn0Na2KnfxTUucCySUALsdrFiC8J9jqDOyl9zPKOWG5GQyWav4wdU7E76VrUR7ldaNFfQwVj37_SKc/s320/Ben_Lively.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No love for Lively?</td></tr>
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<b>Pitchers:</b></div>
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Eflin, Eickhoff, Nola, and Velasquez - Status quo, could be better but could be worse. Nola will come out of his funk, he has to.</div>
<div class="yiv6408803881MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1469124784128_3355">
Hellickson - there's interest in him, I say trade him and add to the minor's stable. He and Rupp are there best shots at prospects. I personally want to see Thompson.</div>
<div class="yiv6408803881MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1469124784128_3356">
D Hernandez - take whatever you can get for him, too inconsistent.</div>
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Neris, Ramos, Gomez - keepers, will only get better.</div>
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Stumpf, Obertholtzer - meh, but they're lefties which don't grow on trees. Araujo should be a stud but fails, cya.</div>
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Asher, Murray, Buchanon, Gonzales, and Cordero - meh, career minor leaguers. Toss in Garcia too.</div>
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on the DL: Appel and Harrison, jury still out on both. Morton could still be a force but they should shitcan Hinojosa.</div>
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<b>Catchers:</b></div>
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Chooch - great but overpaid backup, best of luck to him after this year. He can go back to his ranch and enjoy his life and be welcomed in Philly any time he comes back.</div>
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Rupp - solid starting catcher now but only a placeholder for...</div>
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Knapp - should be the solid backup soon</div>
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Alfaro - the next coming of Pudge Rodriguez, I can't wait to see him.</div>
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<b>Infielders:</b></div>
<div class="yiv6408803881MsoNormal">
Franco, Galvis, Hernandez, and Joseph - the core infield in years to come. Galvis will replace Blanco as great utility guy when Crawford comes up.</div>
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Blanco - possibly the best utility infielder in the NL. Love to see him get more starts but it's up to Pete.</div>
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Howard - a top 10 all time Phillie, enjoy retirement you earned it mostly except for the last couple years. He'll hide out in FL in his mansion.</div>
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Crawford - *<b>THE</b>* future at SS and the top prospect in all of baseball. Cannot wait to see him and Alfaro every day.</div>
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<b>Outfielders</b>:</div>
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Odubey - great selection in Rule 5, but also the biggest enigma on the team</div>
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Bourjos - if he can hit over .270 a keeper. Already flamed out bad with 2 other teams.</div>
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Asche - decent backup outfielder when Altherr comes up, who needs a big looksee when he does.</div>
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Goeddel - had a hot streak but since not much. Speed yes but jury still out on this year's Rule 5 guy.</div>
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Paredes - worthless, cya.</div>
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Sweeney - probable career minor leaguer.</div>
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Williams and Quinn and Cozens - yes please let's see a lot more.</div>
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If I left anybody out of any value hey, this is all IMHO and I prolly don't give a shit lol. If any of you have opinions that's what the comment box below is for. But we all know nobody ever uses it so.................. let's get Bunted!!</div>
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Yes CJ I want one of those blue shirts please. :)</div>
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Bill S aka/netfather<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
Jay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-8501348304854326892016-06-20T18:40:00.000-04:002016-06-20T18:56:39.852-04:00They ARE who we thought they were!<div class="yiv6675917857MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1466462230661_2368">
View from the Left Coast by a Lefty: They <b>ARE</b> who we thought they were!</div>
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Make no mistake, after spring training I was optimistic. During April and May I was optimistic. But after being swept at home in a 4 game series for the first time since 1964, it is what it is. The "so-called" experts were right. We are the worst team in baseball save the Braves. It pains me to say it but the facts are the facts. Rupp at .264 is the second best hitter on the team? WTF happened to Odubey? Welcome to the majors Tommy Joseph, now you have even more empathy for Ryan Howard. Maikel Franco you looked great handing out bobbleheads on Saturday maybe you should concentrate on that for a major? Goeddel shows promise but has faded and Bourjos is flaming out with his 3rd team. Is there anyone left to give a shot unless we bring up the kids? Any more scrap heap pickups left after Paredes?</div>
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Welcome to the life of a Phillies fan since 1958. Before this season I expected no more than what we've seen in total. The good start has blossomed into what was expected by most. For years I have been saying give me 2 weeks with Ryan Howard and I'll resurrect him into a solid player. Now I'm saying they need to hire me full time for this whole roster. Yep, the team who has only managed 13 runs in the first inning in 71 games, and given up almost 60 homers vs their 27 at home so far needs life support. Individually they stack up with a lot of teams but collectively they suck azz. </div>
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I could go through the entire roster one by one and list their faults, but why can't anyone in the organization see what I see? Odubey on his front foot and totally losing the strike zone, Franco trying to hit 5 run homers on every swing, Galvis guessing wrong on 90% of the pitches he sees( 6 for his last 70), Hernandez's fielding mental lapses affecting his at bats... I could go on and on for several pages. But since I am nobody but a legend in his own mind who cares? Even Andres Blanco has caught the bug, they guy who I thought was the most mentally and physically ready player on the team, has succumbed to the plague. </div>
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I had planned on a full section of bashing Howard here, but things changed. He has done nothing wrong other than not hit. He has not complained and has handled everything with class. I am now of the opinion they should play him more. He is in my mind a top 10 all time Phillie and should be treated as such. Let him bat against RHP, if he ends up at .080 so be it. Can't hurt any more than anyone else. We are at the bottom of the barrel and the only way out is to play out of it. Yeah right LOL.</div>
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Even after everything above I still fire up my streambox to watch as many games as I can, because they are my team. As long as I have a hole in my azz they will be. After looking over a couple of FB Phillies pages I'm actually tired of seeing "you gotta believe" and yeah they'll win the next one. Those people need a dose of reality. Actually maybe they need to understand baseball better is all, and Phillies' history in particular. I truly wish I had more and better things to write about, which is why my pieces have become few and farther between. I long for the days of Wriz Wed, DB29 Tue, DGirl Mon, Hoodwink'd, Kornhole, etc etc. Maybe by 2018 if I'm still kicking I'll be able to buy a new Phillies jersey to wear the day after it gets washed like the old days. </div>
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I purposely held off on writing about the 3-5 Phillies who might be good trade pieces at the deadline. Maybe next time... might be fun. Thankfully Klentak will not budge on giving up the farm, something that was needed years ago. He and McPhail have a plan. I just hope it comes to fruition before my time is up. Truth.</div>
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Jay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-43122529573414535842016-06-19T12:39:00.001-04:002016-06-19T12:39:08.760-04:00Fathers's Day & Baseball<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gus, Bob, Aaron & Brett Boone</td></tr>
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Everyone sits back on days such as Fathers Day and Mothers Day and reboots their memory about something from the past which really stood out. With my father and me it was always about baseball and the Phillies, no matter how bad they were. I remember vividly the first baseball game he ever took me to. Well, maybe not vividly but a lot of it. It was summer time, 1960, against the Giants.</div>
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I had just got home from the 9am Mass with intentions of changing clothes and heading to the vacant lot that we used as a baseball field. That was where I was going to spend my day. Mom told me that I could not change and had to wait for my father to come home from the 10am Mass but didn't tell me why. Being 5 years old, all I could think of was I had done something wrong and an ass-whipping was in store. Dad got home and told me to come with him, nothing about where we were going. We walked the 4 blocks to Lehigh Avenue and stood on the corner. Dad told me we were waiting for a bus but still didn't tell me where we were going. We got on the bus and everyone was in their church clothes just like us. I didn't pay much attention to what they were saying because like any other 5 year old, my attention was rivited to looking out the window. At about Broad and Lehigh, a woman got on the bus and Dad made me get up and give her my seat. I did as he told me with no questions asked. Thats just how it was in those days, obeying your parents and being a gentleman.</div>
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After what seemed an eternity of a bus ride Dad told me that our stop was next. I could see everyone else was getting ready to depart and I was still pretty much clueless. When we got off the bus I saw this giant building with the words "Shibe Park" on it. Now I knew where we were, we were at a baseball game. Shibe Park was the old name for Connie Mack Stadium. Even after the name was changed, Dad called it Shibe Park. I couldn't believe it!!! My first Phillies game. We got our tickets and entered the ballpark. This is where my senses kicked into overdrive. To this day, the smell of cigars and popcorn filled the air. We stood in line to get a hot dog and coke for me. Dad got a beer and complained that 25 cents was too much for a beer. We walked around the concourse of the stadium looking for the section we would sit in. Finally he pointed out a tunnel, well to me it was a tunnel, which would take us to our seats.</div>
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Now this is my Wizard of Oz moment. In my memory of this day, up until this moment, everything was in black and white. We walked through the tunnel which went up for some reason and the bluest sky I had ever seen was right in front of me. At the top of the tunnel I stopped dead in my tracks. There, right in front of me was a real baseball field. It had the greenest grass I had ever seen. Where I was raised, grass is something that grew through the cracks in the sidewalk. Back in those days your imagination was all you had. Two games on each week. Game of the week on NBC on Saturday and the Phillies on channel 6 on Sunday only. Dad and I never missed a game. Dad had to nudge me because I was holding up everyone. We made our way to our seats, third base side, second deck, right behind one of the small scoreboards. We were in THE FRONT ROW. Batting practice was still going on and the Giants had the field. I guess we were there about 15 minutes and a ball was coming our way. It landed about 7 seats down from us. I froze. Dad yelled at me to go get it and I did. I could not believe it. Not only was this my very first baseball game, I actually got ball. Who hit it? I don't know and don't care. It was mine. Dad was proud. He had been going to games since 1930 and had never even got close to getting one. An usher came down to where we were sitting and teased me, saying I had to give the ball back. That was NOT going to happen. I looked at Dad and he was smiling so I knew the ball was officially mine.</div>
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All the players left the field and the ground crew started putting down the paint on the lines and batters box. I didn't miss a second of it. When the field was ready for the game to begin, the PA announcer simply said, "Ladies and Gentleman, our National Anthem"...everyone stood up immediately and the men removed their hats. No one had to be told to do this. When it was done, the Phillies took the field and I cheered until my throat hurt. I already knew that my favorite player, #6, Johnny Callison, would be in right field so there was a little disappointment but not a lot.</div>
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The game went by way too fast. Looking back on it, those 3 hours seem like 3 minutes today. I cheered every foul ball, every catch, everything the Phillie did but it was not enough. It was 1960 and the Phillies didn't do a lot of winning back in those days. We stayed until the final out because you just don't leave a game early. As everyone was leaving I stood there looking at the ground crew again and just taking it all in. Dad didn't nudge me to go. He just stood there with a big smile on his face. But finally we had to leave.</div>
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On the bus on the way home I kept that baseball about 12 inches from my eyes. I had every bit of it memorized. I could not wait to get home and show it to everyone.<span style="line-height: 19.32px;">Over the years Dad and I went to a lot more baseball games. The Phillies actually won some of them. But those games, even the game when Mike Schmidt hit 3 HRs, will never replace that first game in 1960. When I think of my father, and I do that quite often, that day is always the first thing that comes to mind. Happy Fathers Day Dad. Let's sit on the couch and cheer for the Phillies.</span></div>
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Joe Stratton</div>
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Jay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-48728828701582756102016-05-29T13:16:00.000-04:002016-05-29T13:16:14.932-04:00Should The Phillies be Buyers?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6gmbLH7jElcpAA7IrrkPuOy0HLSl_5HyH5SJ6dPZMYcsE8-pSlbQ4se2JRl5NiegqjxIbvMk2BkglwjCIRtzUTLUkD-0bWwvGRtX5d2d8eKt-kQDJAWaVXNoyi6KYH_Ulmu8A8pBb3E/s1600/majestic_shop_285x165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br />
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The future is bright and a lot closer then anyone thought. Look at the line up and you can see it. Franco, Oddball, and Joseph. Look at the starting rotation and you can see it. Nola, Vinnie, and Eickoff. Look at the prospects list...Crawford, Thompson, Williams, Appel, Randolph, Alfaro, etc. Look at where the Phightens are drafting in 2 weeks...the top pick.<br />
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The question was brought up on other sites, should the Phightens become buyers if they are still close at the end of July? I give this an emphatic HELL NO. Why give up ANY of these prospects? What are you really going to get? Three months of some overpaid, under-achieving "star". Only way I would even think about it is if Ruf were the key-player in the trade.<br />
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Continue on the path they have laid out...develop those prospects and keep them. Leave them on the farm until September and then throw them into the mix. <br />
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I wouldn't even go into next years FA market. The Phightens will have their three largest contracts coming off the books at the end of this year, Howard, Ruiz, and Harrison. In my most humble opinion, you only go to the FA market if you are looking for that piece that is going to bring you a parade down Broad Street. The Phightens will be even more competitive next year but not parade ready. Parade year will be 2018. Hit the FA market after the 2017 season. After all these kids get a full year in the show, you will know exactly what your needs are for the parade.<br />
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The new front office of MacNofail and Halftanked, needs not to be swayed by the media and fans (the bandwagon fans will be the loudest) and stick to their guns. <a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/paradein2018?source=feed_text&story_id=1008353642533169"><span aria-label="hashtag" class="_58cl">#</span><span class="_58cm">paradein2018</span></a><br />
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />Jay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-44627934169725694742016-05-15T10:16:00.004-04:002016-05-15T10:16:56.535-04:00<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<i>What better way to cure your Rupp hangover this fine Sunday morning than a special spot start blog from fellow 'Buntamaniac Joe Stratton. Enjoy! </i></div>
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<b>THE MAN!</b></div>
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Can't the Phightens get some love? Just a little love? Before Spring Training even began all the "experts" were picking them to be the worse team since the 1962 Mets. Kevin Millar picked the Phanatic as his remote stopper. The sabermetric weenies, you know those guy's right? When choosing up sides to play wiffle ball he was only allowed to play because it was his ball and bat so you put him in right field. He grew up, lives in his mother's basement eating hotpockets and watching porn in his tightie whities, scouring Amazon for the latest craze in pocket-protectors. Same guy who couldn't get any play if he walked into a brothel with a hand full of $50's. Those guys picked the Phightens to be lower than whale crap. Only REAL Phans stuck by the team. We saw promise in this young group...we still do see a bright future and that future is not that far off. The bandwagon fans spent a lot of time in ER's around Delaware Valley getting treated for sprained ankles they got when they jumped off the bandwagon. The only thing these experts are saying is "Philadelphia boo'd Santa Claus"...yeah, that shit is getting told too.</div>
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What did true, real Phans do? They looked for improvement from last years fiasco. Keep developing the young players, put in bits and pieces in the 25 man roster to play competitive ball and wait for the results. I hoped, and picked them to win 75 games this year which would have been a 9 game improvement. So what happens? You wake up on Sunday morning, May 15, 2016 to find the Phightens 7 games over .500 and a game out of 1st place in the NL East. They didn't do this by beating just the scrub teams because all the experts picked them to be THE scrub team. They used the broom on the gNats at gNats home. They swept another expert-picked front-runner, the Indians. They are not doing it with smoke and mirrors...they are proving that good pitching and clutch-hitting wins games. Sure, their run-differential, which is another sabermetric weenie stat, isn't sexy. Matter of fact I believe they are on the negative side BUT all that matters is the win and loss columns. Do you get more credit for winning a game by 6 runs than you do if you win by 1 run? OH HELL NO!!!</div>
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They are winning with only one position player who has All Star stats, they are doing it with a closer who can't break 100mph on his fast ball and most people couldn't pick him out of a line-up, like an unnamed closer in the Bronx, they are doing it with someone like Freddie "Effing" Galvis tied for go-ahead RBIs in the NL with some guy named Harper. They are doing it with two of the old guard from the last parade down Broad Street contributing. Howard is on pace for 30 long balls. Don't tell me about him having a low batting average or that he strikes out too much until you compare him to other, sexier names. There are 22 players who have K'd more than Howard in the majors this year.</div>
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So, all you "experts" and bandwagon fans (no PH on purpose), let me mark off a spot on me arse for you to pucker up to. We may not see a parade down Broad Street this year but we are showing you that you don't shit from shinola.</div>
cj hoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07648365505302839179noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-77084485803952734352016-05-09T10:51:00.001-04:002016-05-09T11:11:23.029-04:00<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Hoodwink’d by
cj hood<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>On the Wagon<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>JUMP ON IT! JUMP ON IT! JUMP ON IT!</b></div>
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Last week I
got called out by seasoned ‘Buntamaniac Joe Stratton as being a ‘bandwaggoner.’ However, A. That is not the case and B. 99.9%
of what I put on social media is tongue n cheek. Irregardless (not a real word), that got me thinking. How many more comeback wins, series wins
and/or Gomez saves will it take to put assess back in the (CB Park) seats and
cause people to start buying Phillies gear at their local Walmart again? Like I’ve penned before, we started this blog
the year the squad began their steady decline, so we’ve never got to experience
the surge of fandom that put so many P’s on peoples’ hats & chests. Hence, if Joe, Robin and Carmine Ragusa
decided to vacation the same week…Buntamania Land would have to close it’s
doors. But will this current run be the
one to cause casual phans to dust off the Phillies hats they’ve had in their
closets since 2012? Maybe. If we sweep out the Braves in Atlanta will
that get 5 more Buntamaniacs to show up to Meet & Greet VI in June? Doubtful.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Yes, we are
good or at least better than expected.
At 18-14 we’re 3<sup>rd</sup> in our division, but would be 2<sup>nd</sup>
in most other divisions and first place in the NL West. Fans are excited as well as the players while
the media warns us daily not to get too excited. Why? I
want to get excited. It’s been too
long! Ding dong Harrang is dead! Nola’s an ace! There I said it. Vinny from Philly might be to. I love Hernandez, Neris and of course
Gomez. Giles who? Dude spoke like
Frankenstein…no offense to Jewish monsters.
Tyler Goeddel’s coming around, Blanco got heat off the bench and Chooch
seems to have found the fountain of youth.
And we finally found our lead-off guy El Torito. Even Ryan Howard’s HR tally is ahead of
schedule. Needless to say, I’m more
excited than a hopped-up Jesse Spano on diet pills. Word to your final exams!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>I LOVE THESE 2016 PHILLIES ZACK!<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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So let’s
bring it back down to Earth for our resident naysayers. Yes, we don’t hit enough. Yes, we don’t score enough. Franco’s swinging for the fences and it’s not
paying off. Morton is out for the
year. Eickhoff is so-so. And the outfield corners can’t hit. <o:p></o:p></div>
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But, but,
but…<o:p></o:p></div>
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Bourjis
might hit like D*Brown, but his glove makes up for it. I think Eickhoff will come around and Morton
wasn’t lighting the world on fire to begin with. Franco still has pop and I feel things will
get better, but most importantly we’re winning.
Stop telling us we need to score more!
We’re beating teams we should be beating (sans St. Louis); we’ve swept
the ‘Gnats and are even with the Mets.
We’re 2 games out of first, we have the #1 pick in the draft and it won’t
be long til Nick Williams & JP Crawford will be sporting red pin stripes. Moral of the story kids is…things are looking
good and they’re only going to get better!
So tell your girl who doesn’t know the difference between Ryan & Ron
Howard; and the CPA who uses Phils tix to woo his clients that the Phightans
are back!!! But make sure they trade in their
Victorino shirsey for a Herrera and they know the difference between a Nola and
a Franco. Otherwise, they risk at
getting clowned by a nonbandwaggoner like myself. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p>The Braves only have 1 win at home....let's get 'bunted!!!</o:p></div>
cj hoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07648365505302839179noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-46754504437662718022016-04-10T20:02:00.000-04:002016-04-10T20:02:29.448-04:00Musings Week 1 View From the Left Coast by a Lefty: Musings Week 1<br />
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Just got done watching the series clinch against the Mutts. While we're 2-4, in my mind, we should be 4-2 at least. We all know the reason. The bullpen sucks(so far). After spring training, I admit to a tad of enthusiasm, even after sucking the last week. This is probably right around where we should be according to the "experts" but the season is young and could swing different ways. Normally, I might be pissed off but the Flyers making the playoffs took a big edge off and so far the weekend is pretty decent.</div>
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Last week, CJ did a great piece on most of the roster, so now I get to rant on what really is bothering me. We all know the bullpen cost us at least 2 games against Cincy, but are they really all that bad? Our rotation is 100% better than last year, and so far their ERA is under 3.00... *<b id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1460332492442_2101">BONUS</b>*. Nola is Nola, and Hellickson has been great. I kind of expected this after seeing him a lot last year in AZ but 2 games isn't a good sample. I'm impressed by Velasquez when I thought I wouldn't be. I'm expecting Eickhoff to bounce back and also expect Morton to as well. Like I said the starter's ERA is outstanding so far and I am willing to go another few weeks before rendering any kind of permanent judgment on them. And then we get to...........................</div>
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The bullpen.... OMGWTFLOL. One week isn't a good sample once again, but DAMN. I stand by previous statements on trading Giles, it just had to be done. If you want to go by a one week sample Houston is probably wondering *<b>WHY</b>* they traded what they did for him. I love the pieces we got from them and the Rangers. I'm praying Alfaro and Appel improve and advance as quickly as Nola did. But the bullpen... let's start with Hina josa. DFA his ass, he can't throw strikes. Send him to Oakland or as far away from Philly as we can. I am not in love with Russell, shitcan his ass too. I am really waiting on Oberholtzer and Stumpf to do something to earn their keep. Neris is holding his own so far but Gomez is not a closer in any stretch of the imagination. Hernandez has so much potential. He's another one I got to see a lot of here in AZ. A power arm but his mind seems to disappear in tight, important games. Anyway, we got what we got and have to live with it.</div>
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Before I forget.... who the hell taught base running in spring training? None of those guys could have played for my high school coach, let alone get paid to play. </div>
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Since I'm on a rant, I need to throw this in. DFA Bourjos. He's failed with 2 teams already, most notably the Cardinals. If they give up on a player he's probably done for. Also send Tyler Goeddel back to wherever he came from. I don't care how young and fast he is, he can't hit. Another guy they should have left on the street is Venable, another loser from more than one team. I say give Nick Williams and Darnell Sweeney decent looks to contribute at the MLB level. I'm not forgetting Alther, but he'd be my starting RF if not for that tragic incident.</div>
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Anyway I'm now brain dead again. Just had to get rid of some crap in my head. It's now back to switching back and forth between Cubs/Dbacks and Dodgers/Giants for a few hours until my Flyers come on. And... let's get BUNTED.</div>
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Bill S aka/netfather</div>
Jay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-56429807591632554902016-04-03T16:50:00.000-04:002016-04-03T16:50:34.195-04:00‘Twas the Night Before Opening Day ‘16<div class="yiv6158809582MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym18_1_1459716184981_1964" style="margin-bottom: 0pt;">
<b id="yui_3_16_0_ym18_1_1459716184981_1963">Hoodwink’d by cj hood</b></div>
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<i id="yui_3_16_0_ym18_1_1459716184981_1993">‘Twas the Night Before Opening Day ‘16</i></div>
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<b id="yui_3_16_0_ym18_1_1459716184981_1996">FANS ARE SCARED BRO!</b></div>
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‘Twas the night before Opening Day, when all through the park</div>
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Not a creature was stirring, not even a lark;</div>
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The bats were all hung by the helmets with care,</div>
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In hopes that the Phillies soon would be there;</div>
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The fans were nestled all snug in their beds,</div>
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While visions of a parade danced in their heads;</div>
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Mom in her Ruf jersey, and I in my cap,</div>
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Had just settled down for a long Spring nap,</div>
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When out on the field there arose such a clatter, </div>
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I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter.</div>
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Away to Citizen’s Bank I flew like a flash,</div>
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Tore up 476 and almost near crashed.</div>
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Phillies Bunts staff was blogging like there was no tomorrow</div>
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We got rid of that jobber; Ruben Amaro</div>
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When, my wondering eyes saw the mound and the bases</div>
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An all new offense, don’t know their names nor their faces</div>
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With a brand new coach, hair slicked back and neat.</div>
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I knew in a moment it must have been Pete.</div>
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More rapid than the Eagles his courses they came,</div>
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And he whistled, and shouted and, called them by name;</div>
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“Now, Nola! Now, Morton! They came with a twist!</div>
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Now Eickhoff and that guy that broke Franco’s wrist!”</div>
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From the dugout! To the top of the wall!</div>
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They dashed away! Dashed away! Dashed away all!</div>
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As dirt kicked up before the wild hurricanes fly,</div>
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When Altherr broke his wrist; phans collectively cried.</div>
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Ben Davis and Murph were calling the game</div>
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‘Boy we miss Harry’; Oh! What a shame,</div>
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As I drew in my head, and was turning around,</div>
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Nola was set and took to the mound.</div>
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He was dressed in a throwback, from his head to his foot,</div>
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And the strength of his arm could throw a shot put;</div>
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The Mets blew the Series; the ‘Gnats dug their own graves;</div>
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Marlins suck; at least we’re not the Braves.</div>
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Three up and three down as Chooch made the calls!</div>
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Two strike-outs, a pop-out, and only one ball!</div>
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Las Vegas is saying we’re gonna get killed</div>
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If their play doesn’t kill us, Chick-fil-A certainly will</div>
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We’ve got Andy McPhail and Matthew Klentak;</div>
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We traded our stars and got prospects back.</div>
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We might be the duds of the MLB,</div>
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We’ll contend once again, just wait and see</div>
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We’ll struggle at first, I’m not going to lie yo!</div>
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But at least we open with that team from Ohio</div>
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I’m excited about Franco, Herrera and Nola</div>
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Philly’s best team? Wildcats at Villanova</div>
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If we played in October it would be such a shocker,</div>
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Maybe if Howard cleaned out his locker</div>
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But tonight we’re in first, like the rest of the teams</div>
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And all we can do is have positive dreams</div>
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Can’t wait til tomorrow; dress warm cuz it’s freezing,</div>
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“Good Luck Philadelphia, and to the fans a great season,”</div>
Jay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-57699958089034867162016-03-16T12:49:00.001-04:002016-03-16T13:00:19.958-04:00<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Hoodwink’d by cj hood<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>Who’s Who?!?</b></div>
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<br /></div>
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When I was in high school I’d
get these Who’s Who letters in the mail that with a small fee I would be able
to join their elite list of academic all stars. They must have sent these letters to
everyone cuz in high school I was saddling a steady B- average at best. Needless to say, that’s why I ended up going
to the same college as the Wriz. Anywho,
the ‘Bunts blog has been desolate since last June after our Phillies decided to
give themselves the sleeper-hold and tap out.
However, enter Andy McPhail (that name still scares me) and his boy
wonder Matt Klentak and exit First Base Coach aficionado Ruben Amaro Jr and all
of sudden we’re knee deep into a rebuild.
I wouldn’t compare this Jenny Jones makeover to slapping a wig on the
middle child and calling her the ‘new Jan Brady’, but it definitely has the
phans & bloggers taking notice.</div>
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This takes us to the title of
this episode of Hoodwink’d, ‘Who’s Who.’
Since last year’s trade deadline I find myself asking ‘who’s this?’ or fellow
‘Buntamaniacs asking me ‘who’s that?.’
And truth be told, I’m a little confused myself. For years, we knew every Phillie and their
position like our own children, but now it’s as challenging as finding a
Republican volunteer at a soup kitchen. </div>
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Now, all 2 of our steady readers
know that I’m the clown prince of this organization, Netfather Bill’s our
historian and the Wriz is the X’s & O’s guy. And DB29 (when available), can tell you which parts of CB park are safe
to pick food up off the ground (after being dropped) and still eat it. Irregardless (not a real word), I’m going to
attempt to break these new faces down for your…especially the ones worth
watching.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I’ll start
with some familiar faces from last season…</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Maikel
Franco 3B: My personal fave is a player
you should already know. He came up last
summer and was a wonder at the plate. He was coasting along til he got beamed in
the wrist by new Phillies pitcher Jeremy Hellickson. Mike Schmidt thinks Franco will be an MVP
someday while Mackanin thinks he’ll be a homerun king. I reluctantly dropped Franco from my fantasy
keeper league, but hope to draft him again.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Odubel
Herrera CF: Infielder by nature (not cuz
I hate ya), El Torrito was a Rule 5 pickup and another shining star in this
rebuild. Even though he can’t speak the
King’s English I’m still down with this workhorse.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Cesar
Hernandez 2B: I don’t know how to put
that funky slash over the ‘e’ so deal.
Anywho, Cesar came into take golden boy Chase Utley’s spot when he was
traded to LA. He might lose his job to
Freddy Galvis when JP Crawford comes up to play SS in July, but time will tell.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Cameron Rupp
C: Every time I see this dude I think, ‘he’s
too tall to be a catcher.’ Anyway, with
a stronger bat and healthier knees, Rupp saw more time at the end of the season
than phan favorite Carlos Ruiz. However,
with Jorge Alfaro waiting in the wings Rupp’s days are sure to be numbered.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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Darin Ruf OF, 1B, Restroom Attendant: Ruff is like
the girl you called every weekend at 2am, but ignored during daylight
hours. Ruff is killing it at the plate
compared to Howard (which isn’t saying much) so put Howard out to pasture as
well as the term ‘platoon.’ As I write
this, McPhail is on record saying that there’s no guarantee Howard will make
the roster.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Aaron
Altherr OF: Imagine Bizarro Domonic
Brown. This homegrown talent was
supposed to be the second coming of Jayson Werth til he got hurt diving for a
ball in Spring Training. He could be
back by late July if at all. This injury
was the first major blow to this rebuild.</div>
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<br /></div>
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JP Crawford
SS: Philadelphians haven’t been this
excited over a young African American athlete since Adonis Creed. Crawford is putting balls in orbit all over
the minors something the Phils desperately need. Bowa is comparing Crawford to J*Roll on
steroids and when this golden child is ready either Galvis or Hernandez will be
packing their bags.</div>
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Jorge Alfaro
C: Acquired from Texas in the
Hamels/Diekman trade, Alfaro is supposed to be the best catching prospect in
all of baseball. Alfaro is sure to be
the heir to Chooch’s thrown and a worthy one to boot.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Tyler
Goeddel OF: Forgot about this guy til
the Wriz reminded me. Goeddel is the result of our piss poor effort in
2015. Our 1<sup>st</sup> round pick in
the Rule 5 draft hopes to be the right handed bat that the Phils have been
looking for.</div>
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New to the
bump…</div>
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<br /></div>
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Charlie
Morton P: Acquired by the Pirates,
Morton will be part of the new starting 5.
I’m cool with that as long as his name is Morton and not Harrang. And that’s
all I have to say about that. #gump</div>
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<br /></div>
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Jerad Eickoff: Also acquired from Texas, Eickoff was billed
as major league ready and is sure to make the starting rotation.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Jeremy
Hellickson P: Former Arizona
Diamondback, Jeremy (spoken) is a reliable arm at a bargain basement rate. He’ll help eat up innings for our bull-less
pen.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Vincent
Vasquez P: Acquired from Houston on the
Giles trade, Vasquez is the pitcher I fell most phans are excited to see. With Nola, Morton, Hellickson & Eickhoff,
the final spot is Vasquez’ to lose.</div>
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<br /></div>
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David
Hernandez P: Pap out! Giles out!
Hernandez in? Diamond Dave thinks
so. Another banged up athlete has
stumbled into the City of Brotherly Love thinking he could get the job
diz-one. We all know Philly wasn’t his
first choice, so if he doesn’t want to become Pap 2.0 (as far as phan favorites
go) then he better bring it!</div>
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Aaron Nola
P: AKA the ‘new Jan Brady’ BKA the ‘new
Cole Hamels’. We saw this rook represent
the second half of last season and although he’s had a slow Spring, Nola’s tapped to be the Opening Day starter
and our new #1.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<u>PotPourri
for $500 Alex</u>:</div>
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-Frenchy’s
gone. Already miss him.</div>
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-Cody Asche
is hurt and might be traded.</div>
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-David
Buchanan is back. Not a big fan.</div>
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-Nick
Williams (OF) was invited to ST, but sent back</div>
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-Pete
Bourjos (OF) formally of St. Louis may take Altherr’s spot.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I’m sure I
missed some ish and made a few blunders, but I needed to get this done for my
own sanity. BTW, the Wriz and I have a
wager for how many games the Phillies will win this year. If they win 69+ then I’ll be enjoying a case
of some high octane road sodas by the end of Fall. I don’t think this team will make the
playoffs just yet, but they’re definitely going to be better than what
everybody’s predicting. And teams that
play like they have nothing to lose always seem to find a way to win. Needless to say I am excited over our new team and feel that Batman &
Klentak have done a great job thus far.
I’m also excited to see my first On Deck Series on April 1<sup>st</sup>
(no joke). Meet & Greet VI is June
18<sup>th</sup>….let’s get ‘bunted!!!</div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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*Check us
out on Instragram & Twitter @PhilliesBunts</div>
cj hoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07648365505302839179noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-45913494009116481062015-08-11T16:18:00.001-04:002015-08-11T16:18:07.014-04:00WHO ARE THESE GUYS View From the Left Coast by a Lefty: 16-5? *<b>WHO ARE THESE GUYS?</b>*<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim01LiNS6dDaMYMWl19bKDVqoQTDyXoJgyjmbKvrE0AuIusHFpHup3GGwTawYPVYpEIIq35b3-K7Ft981RpWd1woPxv8Q9PwfwhJCA7t3k_bPOiKh_XBwcVA-nH8LVGGaTR2a1uUODow4/s1600/WHo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim01LiNS6dDaMYMWl19bKDVqoQTDyXoJgyjmbKvrE0AuIusHFpHup3GGwTawYPVYpEIIq35b3-K7Ft981RpWd1woPxv8Q9PwfwhJCA7t3k_bPOiKh_XBwcVA-nH8LVGGaTR2a1uUODow4/s320/WHo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Whoever they are, break'em up quick. No seriously, who are these guys who are sporting red pinstripes who were almost 40 games under .500 the first half? The answer apparently is pretty much the same guys who sucked major azz before the break. I admit, I am stunned and am not sure who to point fingers at and why. At the same time I'm almost afraid to drink the koolaid and hope that better time are on the way. Yet, here we are and NOT in the cellar. :D</div>
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What is this phenomena that we are witnessing? One thing I know is there is now chemistry on this team. Each and every one of them has confidence, and loves the game and their teammates. It's the same type of chemistry our division title teams had. They may not have the talent those teams had(yet), but they don't lack for anything else including effort. A few things stand out to me:</div>
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</div>
<div class="yiv3477734922MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1439323774993_2077">
1) Hernandez is here to stay, and after 2 years is finally living up to his former hype.</div>
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2) Odubey is the real deal. His confidence grows daily. When he actually learns to play outfield watch out.</div>
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3) Franco has arrived. He's still a little anxious at times but aggressive is better than thinking too much.</div>
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4) Frenchy was a great add on. He just produces period.</div>
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5) Howard is getting caught up in the enthusiasm and playing much better.</div>
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6) Rupp keeps amazing me. Not just a placeholder anymore for Alfaro but a real MLB catcher.</div>
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7) Galvis is still outplaying expectations made of him before the season.</div>
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8) Brown is having another month of good baseball. Will it last or fade again?</div>
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAW9PSc23oDI7FPqMg0pUWCYocYxgNwVsdg0qrAylnetQaNWmkK7Bz0BoADRqz0IRuQ3Hs09QUtSrG0shtz2hC2BeMUgCfJGSkbiYL8t_sB-wwuu5twT1LQWoLjTK_Gm6g3_dOAZ6Bg1A/s1600/phillies-franco-francoeur.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAW9PSc23oDI7FPqMg0pUWCYocYxgNwVsdg0qrAylnetQaNWmkK7Bz0BoADRqz0IRuQ3Hs09QUtSrG0shtz2hC2BeMUgCfJGSkbiYL8t_sB-wwuu5twT1LQWoLjTK_Gm6g3_dOAZ6Bg1A/s400/phillies-franco-francoeur.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The pitching still astounds me, at least starting. The bullpen is great. We'll miss Papelbum(not me) but 100 Mile Giles is the shiznitz. Utley and Chooch have settled into secondary roles and I think that's part of the glue keeping this team as it is. The best part... help is on the way! Alfaro could easily become a bigger, better Pudge Rodriguez. Nick Williams is ENFUEGO, and a big hard hitting RH corner outfielder is just what the Dr ordered. The Fightin Phils have charged into the playoff picture and the whole farm looks energized. *<b>WHO ARE THESE GUYS?</b>*</div>
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I really almost didn't want this to happen, because common sense says it can't last. But being a Phillies fan since 1958 is making me hope it's not an internet glitch or something. Honestly, I don't know what to think other than they will be here tonight in a few hours and I need to find a good bullshit excuse to miss work Wed for the lunchtime getaway game. Until then....</div>
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Bill S aka/netfather</div>
<br />
<br />
***EDITOR'S NOTE***** Bill wrote this yesterday. I'm to blame for the tardiness. Bill's to blame for the jinx.Jay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-16221051564426311022015-07-19T18:33:00.000-04:002015-07-19T18:33:10.314-04:00Been a WhileView From the Left Coast by a Lefty: Been a While<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjboPCszuqfGGcY04fltHmrcdkXx1sIcWdAXHw_oSn0yQsogovAXqYtELFV6Eht26LmoXxJc0MZDAmL-oeW2FQytPtANd4ac6TUljTPT_ZHjCG36tm_6GSgE2Xn_pedgBQgbHsdrEBXGGI/s1600/goodolddays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjboPCszuqfGGcY04fltHmrcdkXx1sIcWdAXHw_oSn0yQsogovAXqYtELFV6Eht26LmoXxJc0MZDAmL-oeW2FQytPtANd4ac6TUljTPT_ZHjCG36tm_6GSgE2Xn_pedgBQgbHsdrEBXGGI/s1600/goodolddays.jpg" /></a></div>
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As the season progressed, it became more and more difficult to write about my favorite team since 1958. I've seen the highs and lows over and over again. Right about now there are maybe 3 positives to dwell on: 1) Franco and Hernandez, but lately 16's come back to earth 2) Frenchie, and that's a stretch but he's enjoying every minute which dont suck 3) possibilities for Adam Morgan to do well. Come Tuesday we'll see if Nola is actually ready for primetime. Personally I think they should have waited til September but I don't sign the checks. Don't get me wrong I loved the pick of him and that he was the most ready for MLB pitcher in that draft. But seriously, isn't the front office grasping for straws because they can't deal Hamels or Papelbum or Revere? I think they finally this week realized they weren't getting the moon for Cole.... FINALLY. We'll see soon enough.</div>
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So instead I decided to go retro, back to what got me invited here. My first 3 pieces were about how I became a Phillies fan living 2500 miles away. If you're interested here are the links to them:</div>
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<a href="http://philliesbunts.blogspot.com/2011/04/view-from-left-coast-by-lefty-part-one.html">http://philliesbunts.blogspot.com/2011/04/view-from-left-coast-by-lefty-part-one.html</a></div>
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<a href="http://philliesbunts.blogspot.com/2011/04/view-from-left-coast-by-lefty-part-deux.html">http://philliesbunts.blogspot.com/2011/04/view-from-left-coast-by-lefty-part-deux.html</a></div>
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<a href="http://philliesbunts.blogspot.com/2011/05/view-from-left-coast-by-lefty-part-tres.html">http://philliesbunts.blogspot.com/2011/05/view-from-left-coast-by-lefty-part-tres.html</a></div>
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So now I regress to 1968-69, playing semi pro ball in South Jersey. Playing in the Camden City League my Cherry Hill team dominated from 69-73. We were the only back-to-back-to back champs in it's history. In our league we had 2 teams that were mostly Puerto Rican. Great players, but mostly choked when it counted so they never won. One of the managers invited me to play for them on Sundays in Philly. The two teams combined their best players into one team sponsored by Goya, http://www.goya.com/english/ a major Latino food distributor with a giant factory in Philly. He said he'd pay me $25 every Sunday I showed up. They played double headers every weekend, and were only allowed to have 2 non-Latino players on each team in the league. Signed a contract and all so you couldn't jump from team to team. This was commonplace for semi-pro teams to sign a contract.</div>
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Now $25 doesn't seem like a lot, but at that time minimum wage was $1.25/hour so you do the math. On top of that, after every double header they broke out cases of beer and a few grills and it was like a big party. I had a blast with them. </div>
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Anyway, my first time going over was scary. We played on a shit field somewhere in SE Philly I think it was. Full of rocks, broken bottles, and other crap. The entire team showed up almost 2 hours early and scoured the field for debris. By the time we started it wasn't bad at all. Those guys lined the field like pros. Only major hurdle was my Spanish was next to nil lol. </div>
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So the first game I lead off and play RF. I had 3 hits and we won. But because the field was in such a shitty location(to me) I was more worried about my car than anything else. I had a 65 Impala SS convertible that I had just spent $250 on a brand new rag top. Most of the game I was watching out for it(parked as close as I could to the field). The manager noticed this but said nothing.</div>
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Between games he came up to me and asked me if I was ok, I seemed distracted. I told him yeah a bit. He said he noticed I kept staring at my car all game and I nodded. Then he busted out in this big laughing spell and told me he had two kids watching my car and not to worry about it anymore. I went from almost shitting my pants to laughing with him. Then he asked me to pitch the second game, and that's why they asked me to play. He knew I was all state and drafted by ATL. He was a very cool and smart man.</div>
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Almost forgot, he was one of the only people on that team who spoke English. I had to fess up and tell him I threw my arm out and couldn't pitch anymore. I offered to give him back the $25 he gave me before we started because the only non PR's were always pitchers for every team in the league. There just weren't enough Latino's who could pitch. He told me no I could keep it if I got 3 more hits and we won the second game.</div>
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Well I was 2 for 2 with two walks, we won, and I kept the money. He tore up my contract and thanked me for coming over and that they didn't need me anymore. Just think, 47 years ago and baseball was that important to them. There were at least 2000 people lining the field to watch us. They sure loved baseball. No wonder so many Latino's now are hooked and its almost a way of life.</div>
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If you got this far I'm impressed that you gave a shit about my past. I truly wish I could write as much about this Phillies team. I've tried more than once but my fingers get stumped as to which keys to hit to make it sound enthused lol. I do predict Hamels and Papelbum gone, both before the deadline. I'm going on record saying I don't think Nola is ready yet, but I hope I'm wrong. If he struggles I hope he has the mental strength to get through it. Hopefully Jesse Biddle has mastered his mental hump with the help he got from Doc, as his last game was outstanding. Wriz, if you don't approve of this piece you have a delete key and it won't bother me in the least. I'm still watching every weekend and chromecasting the games to my tv. We may suck but it's still my team. Thanks for listening, and let's get Bunted.</div>
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Bill S/aka netfather</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bill's Prized Possesion</td></tr>
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Jay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-43016190999038112612015-07-05T20:08:00.000-04:002015-07-05T20:09:31.759-04:00Bad Biz<div class="yiv8142322889MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436140821543_2879" style="margin-bottom: 0pt;">
<b id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436140821543_2878">Hoodwink’d by cj hood</b></div>
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<i id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436140821543_2876">Bad Biz</i></div>
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I gotta be honest, I thought my life would be a helluva lot better when Pete Mackanin took over last week: Air would be fresher, beer would be free-er & the Phillies would be winning. Kind of the same way I thought I felt when Ryno took over for Chollie a few seasons back. However, that is definitely not the case. As a collective phanbase of ‘Buntamaniacs we all the share the same depression over this ballclub, the disdain for Ruben and the rich love for more free-er beer. Yet, this excrement that trots out onto the diamond day-in and day-out also represents something else that only a few of us could understand. For the Phillies bloggers all over the world including the #1 blog, these Phillies Bunts, this team also represents <i>bad biz</i>. It’s like when superstore Pails & Nails nearly ran Cunningham Hardware out of business. It’s difficult to sell a hammer to someone who’s not interested in hammering, but in this case the ‘hammer’ is positive news about this team. Hence, when the Phillies franchise suffers…so does this blog.</div>
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<b>F’ THIS SHIT!</b></div>
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The truth is, this blog started 2 years too late. The World Series win & appearance were long gone when our faithful CEO Wriz contacted the original group about starting a blog. That crew (Wriz, DB29, Kornhole, DiamondGirl & myself) came together like Voltron and took over the City of Brotherly Love with informative and (might I say) witty retort about our Phightans. However, as the Phillies started to fall so did our bloggers and hype over this fine institution. Despite the fact that DB29 came out of retirement and wrote a blog that only makes sense if you’re drunk or high, output from this corporation has been weak at best. Yet, it isn’t our fault. Do our legion of ‘Buntamaniacs want to read how our team sucks every week? I doubt it. The truth is if it wasn’t for Erik the ‘Bunts might have folded months ago. Besides running a successful blog & Facebook page, we also manage Twitter& Instagram accounts. We now use Twitter to do play-by-play instead of the FB page. The Instagram is mainly used for posting embarrassing pics of the Wriz. Irregardless (not a real word), none of these outlets generate much heat cuz the Phillies suck and when they suck it’s bad for the blogging business. Case in point, I run an Eagles FB page (Ray Didinger Superfans) that get’s 5-7 Likes a week AND IT’S NOT EVEN FOOTBALL SEASON. And because it’s not football season I only give it a tenth of the attention I do the ‘Bunts, but it’s still getting mad love. Why? Cuz the Eagles are good (as of today). I know older fans like Netfather Bill are more patient than I am because they’re used to these waves of shittiness, but those waves happended BB (before ‘Bunts).</div>
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One thing that really ‘grinded my gears’ is when I shared the story of the Dad who took his son to the Gnats doubleheader which coincidently took place the same day as Meet & Greet V. Sure it was a good story, but the amount of views, comments & shares on that one post trumped most of what we posted all season. Just like Cunningham Hardware, Phillies Bunts is a business that was built from the ground up….blood, sweat & tears bro! It’s hard work! Try breast feeding twins and writing a blog every 4 months…don’t believe me, ask Wriz! So if it’s sappy my fellow ‘Buntamaniacs want, then sappy they will get. Break out the tissues wussies for the sappiest Hoodwink’d ever sapped…..sap…</div>
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-We bought new brown rugs for our kitchen that perfectly camouflages doggy doodoo. I stepped in poop twice.</div>
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-Billingsley, Correia, Harang, O’Sullivan et.al.</div>
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-Robin brought pretzels to Meet & Greet V that she originally bought for Meet& Greet 1.</div>
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-Our manager quit on us.</div>
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-DB29 tips 9%.</div>
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-DiamondGirl’s cat Chase had the sniffles.</div>
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-I'm not as hot in my online pics as I am in person.</div>
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-Some people thought Galvis and Herrera were All Stars.</div>
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-The dad that took his kid to the double header thinks Jim Korhan is funny.</div>
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-Timmytheleg hasn’t been seen since he got married.</div>
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-Wriz promised my friends and I <i>Hall Of Fame</i> seats & then we got denied at the elevator.</div>
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-Not only does Harang sound like Orangutan, but he looks like one too.</div>
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-Netfather Bill broke a toe when he dropped his high school yearbook on it. (It’s made of stone)</div>
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-RAJ saw his shadow in a Schmitter which means 3 more years of incompetence. </div>
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-The Phillies are now selling tickets with gift receipts.</div>
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-With a name like McPHAIL how could anything go wrong?</div>
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-Meet & Greet VI might take place at a Union game…let’s get ‘bunted!!!</div>
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Jay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-80323842294697097602015-06-29T18:09:00.000-04:002015-06-29T18:09:16.894-04:00Meet & Greet during DefeatsIt's finally here, Meet & Greet V: The Return of the Wriz. The annual event that Phillies fans long for. It used to be up there with Opening Day. Now? Not so much. It was a star studded event, The Netfather, CJ Hood, Diamond Girl and Jay Wrizight. Right up there and surpassing Wing Bowl as the premier event of the year. Bands like AC/DC and the Foo Fighters taking the stage in front of a raucous crowd. Today someone may have a radio on in their car. Oh how the mighty have fallen. Our organizer, Robin, ran a wild event with a megaphone and a bull whip. Gourmet food, craft beers flowing, and world class entertainment. Throngs inside the K Lot and scores more trying to get in. This morning she will say, "Park over there, I think I have a bag of Doritos in my trunk". <br />
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And the stars have fallen on tough times. At one event in years past, The Netfather parachuted in and was swarmed by a bunch of dancers from Cheerleaders. I heard he can't make it this year, he's in the middle of his 7th divorce and he can't leave the state of Arizona. Judge's orders. CJ Hood was appearing on The Late Show with David Letterman. He was a headliner in the same breath as Chris Rock and Dane Cook. I hear he is hosting the Open Mic Nite at the Chuckles in Scranton. He's there the second Tuesday of the month from 6 to 10. His career has taken the same trajectory as Louis CK's tv show. What happened there? That brings us to Diamond Girl. She was dating 'The Man' Chase Utley. She was competing with Kendra Wilkerson and Heather Mitts for the title of 'It' girl of the city. Well...3 restraining orders later, she can't come within 1,000 feet of Citizens Bank Park. Against the advice of counsel she may appear at this year's event. We will see. Last but not least, our fearless leader, Jay Wrizight. Who am I kidding, he's like Bernie Parent in this town. He can't go anywhere without a fan asking how the lil' Wrizlets are doing? </div>
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Like the Phillies, the Meet & Greet may have seen better days. We can look on the bright side, the Phillies found a stud in Maikel Franco, maybe Phillies Bunts have a star in Erik Whitacre. I can't believe The Wriz is making him watch every Phillies game, talk about hazing the new guy!</div>
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Keep It Classy Philly!</div>
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DB29</div>
Jay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-82288449789229945362015-06-27T17:53:00.000-04:002015-06-27T17:53:28.485-04:00Why?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So Long Suckas!</td></tr>
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Why would Ryne Sandberg, the manager of a big league ball club, “resign” mid-season? <br />
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He has to know this means he will most likely never get a chance to manage in the big leagues ever again. Any General Manager now has to see him as an unreliable guy who may leave them hanging when the going gets tough. How comfortable would the players on a team with a losing record feel with him as their manager?<br />
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Could be he would wanted leave on his own terms rather than being unexpectedly fired like his predecessor Charlie Manuel. Ryne’s big day came at the same time Phillies Favorite Uncle Charlie was blindsided.<br />
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For a manager to quit mid-season is a clear lack of respect to the leaders above him. Maybe Ryne wanted to let Ruben know exactly what he thought of him. Sure, Ruben hired him but afterwards what did he give him? All Sandberg has had since he took the job is a disaster of a roster. No manager could win with this group of players.<br />
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It had to be frustrating when The Big DomBrownski was promoted from a lackluster minor league showing to being the right fielder again. It’s pretty clear, Ruben is determined to prove Brown is an everyday player. Ruf demoted and Brown promoted. As a manager with no say over the team he fields, this had to be infuriating.<br />
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(Did you see the end of the Friday night game? Way to be a coachable player Dom! Mackanin, please bench him for Sundays game. I have tickets)<br />
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It’s possible the final straw was being forced to start Phillippe Aumont. Everyone said the same thing when they heard he was being promoted to the big leagues again – Seriously!?!? He has never produced in the Majors and his performance in the Minors has been underwhelming to say the least. This guy is not and will never be a Major League Ballplayer. Admit it was a bad trade and move on. The fans and Sandberg knew when he was named the starting pitcher the game would result in a loss and an unnecessary burden on the bullpen.<br />
<br />
Or maybe...<br />
<br />
As a Hall of Fame player, from the Chicago Cubs, who endured many losing seasons he got to see firsthand what a manager losing respect of the club house was like. It is more than reasonable to assume that Ryno saw the players no longer listening to him and playing their way rather than his.<br />
<br />
Anyway...<br />
<br />
It was pretty clear Sandberg would not be back next season as manager. It was more than possible he would have been dismissed before the end of the season. With rumors of Andy MacPhail being hired, changes are sure to be made. First move would hopefully be a new General Manager immediately followed by a change at manager. <br />
<br />
But....<br />
<br />
No matter what the reason, Ryne Sandberg is a great baseball man. He is a Hall of Fame player who worked his way from the lowest level of the Minor Leagues to realize his dream of managing a big league ball club. Good for him. How many people his age and with his resume are willing to start on the bottom and work their way to the top. <br />
<br />
At this point, the only R(h)yno my son will ever care about is the villain from the Spider-Man comics but I hope he gets the same drive and determination as the Hall of Fame Second Baseman.<br />
<br />
Who will be the next full time manager of the Phillies? I am still predicting Chase Utley will be filling out the lineup for the 2016 Philadelphia Phillies.<br />
<br />
I will watch the Phillies so you don’t have to!<br />
<br />
Erik Whitacre @erikwhitacre<br />
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Jay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-85396093564913109022015-06-18T19:17:00.000-04:002015-06-18T19:17:03.592-04:00The Good, The Sad and The FIRE RUBENThe Good, The Sad and The FIRE RUBEN.<br />
<br />
At this point it is obvious there will be no playoff baseball for the Phightin Phils this season.<br />
<br />
There has been some good. Not a lot. Just some. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVqs9uSnv4cfyGNPCdsScIFu45Z-a14PsSOxiQFb5fxbXHm72Au5LmQ7PXL3Qz-EtzbATK5QvyZh5-NxTK5QjiWQvLVzn-Idn9njgmC8a94Bl26KnyS3ZjZT9oQgmAxfeMKrDqJHjkN5s/s1600/maikel-franco.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVqs9uSnv4cfyGNPCdsScIFu45Z-a14PsSOxiQFb5fxbXHm72Au5LmQ7PXL3Qz-EtzbATK5QvyZh5-NxTK5QjiWQvLVzn-Idn9njgmC8a94Bl26KnyS3ZjZT9oQgmAxfeMKrDqJHjkN5s/s320/maikel-franco.jpg" width="320" /></a>Mikael Franco is finally here. He brings something the team hasn’t had in a long time – Personality. He looks happy when they are winning and mad when they are losing. It’s a big change for the “baseball is a business and show no emotion” team we have watched the last few seasons. Franco has a ton of potential. If he lives up to the hype, he is going to be the new favorite player for many Phillies fans.<br />
<br />
Get your Franco T-shirts or jerseys and wear them to the games. Don’t boil your kids hot dogs for lunch make them Phillies Francos. <br />
<br />
Cole Hamels looks great every time he takes the mound. He is the definition of an Ace. When he is pitching the Phillies have a chance to win. It’s a shame the offense refuses to score any runs for him.<br />
<br />
Remember in the 90’s when Curt Schilling was pitching lights out baseball every fifth day and the team wasn’t scoring? Had they scored a few runs and added some wins to his lifetime record he would have easily been a first ballot Hall of Fame player. He should have been elected first try anyway and it’s just wrong the he still missed on his second try.<br />
<br />
When Hamels retires, and voters are on the fence about his career, the way he has pitched these last few seasons won’t be remembered but the losses will be.<br />
<br />
On the rare occasions Papelbon gets the ball, there is confidence he will get the job done. The Pirates loss wasn’t his fault. He hasn’t even done or said anything stupid in a while.<br />
<br />
Asche looks like he is ready for his opportunity to be the everyday left fielder and do his best with it. He is a Phillies player to follow and root for. He loves the game and works hard at it. That’s a guy who could be exciting to watch over the next few years.<br />
<br />
There has been plenty of sad. <br />
<br />
Back to Cole Hamels who will miss his Friday night start with a strained hamstring. It isn’t certain if he will need to go on the disabled list. What a hit to his trade value if he goes on the DL. <br />
<br />
One wild thought - is he is being shut down while some negotiations take place over the weekend? Doubt it but have we seen the end of an era? That truly would be sad.<br />
<br />
Utley and Howard are still every day players in Sandberg’s line up. It is time for them to sit more than they play. The Phillies will owe them both huge salaries next year no matter what happens for the rest of this season. If the team really is trying to see what young talent they have to build around for the future it is time to stop worrying about hurting feelings and letting someone else try to get a hit. <br />
<br />
Darin Ruf was sent back to the minors to work on the game he was never allowed to work on in the majors. What a shame. He should have been given the opportunity to play every day to see what he could do. Mike Schmidt is a big fan of Ruf and spoke of this on every Saturday and Sunday home game broadcast.<br />
<br />
The Big Dom Brownski was called back up to the big team to take his place. It seems pretty obvious at this point his six week tear last season was primarily due to big league pitchers not knowing how to pitch him. As soon as teams got an accurate scouting report, pitchers and defenses made adjustments, his numbers decreased and he became the below average player we all know he is. Dom Brown is a 3 time loser – 1) He took his time reporting to the minors because he was upset he wasn’t going to be with the Phillies. 2) He is a Cowboys fan and not afraid to let Philly know it. 3) HE CAN”T HIT! How many opportunities will this guy get? <br />
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<br />
There has been plenty of FIRE RUBEN<br />
<br />
Ruben needs to be fired before the trade deadline. The opportunity to move Hamels, Papelbon, Francouer, Harang or anyone else who can bring a return of some young talent is too important to be lef to a GM who has proven beyond a reasonable doubt he doesn’t have a realistic strategy or vision for the future of this team.<br />
<br />
The great GM’s have a strategy. Billy Beane finds a way to get young players with massive potential. Because the A’s have a low budget he plays them until they are on the verge of costing too much and then trades them for more low priced young players and starts all over. The A’s may be in the AL West basement but Oakland fans have confidence it will only be a matter of time before they are contending for the division again. Are there any Phillies fans who think Ruben has the skills to build a team this way?<br />
<br />
Jeff Luhnow (who replaced Ed Wade) and the Astros have built a team from the ground up. They are young, fun to watch, and have a real chance to hold on and win the AL West. Do any fans think Ruben has the skills to build a contender in the next few years via the draft? With the Phillies unwilling to bring up young players, it might take 10 years.<br />
<br />
Remember when the Red Sox had a fire sale of high priced players and finished last in the division only to be followed by a rebuild that led them to a World Series the following year? The Red Sox knew when to unload their high priced players while they still had something to offer. Do any fans have confidence Ruben could turn a team around in 1 season? (To be fair the Red Sox tried to do an extensive rebuild again and this time it looks like they made some bad choices. Pablo and Hanley should have stayed out west.)<br />
<br />
Not only has Ruben failed to make one trade this season he has created a massive jam for the outfield position. The remainder of June and all of July should be Asche in left, Herrera in center and Brown (because it obviously won’t be Ruf) in Right. Let Francouer play once or twice a week as a gift to the fans who don’t want to watch Brown underwhelm every night. <br />
<br />
It was a smart move to release Sizemore. He never added anything to a team in a rebuilding mode and not many fans were buying tickets just to see him.<br />
<br />
Revere needs to be traded for someone with potential. There is no future for him in a Phillies uniform. Ruben should have looked for a trade in the off season when he actually had value. He hit well last year and on a team that could use a fast center fielder who can slap the ball he might have been worth a decent player. <br />
<br />
Sandberg was Rubens pick for manager. All time Phillies fan favorite Charlie Manuel was fired mid-season to give Ryno his shot. Hiring the right manager is just as important as choosing the right players. <br />
<br />
When Ruben goes Sandberg needs to immediately follow.<br />
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Let Larry Bowa manage the team for the rest of the year. He will sit the players who aren’t playing and light some fires under the ones who need to be doing more.<br />
<br />
The Phillies need to do something to show the fans they care. The longer Ruben stays in charge and continues to underwhelm the more fans they will lose.<br />
<br />
If you stopped watching this team don’t feel bad about it. The bandwagon has been destroyed. It’s not being a fair weather fan to have given up at this point. The players have given up on us and the GM thinks we are idiots! When the wagon is rebuilt and ready to roll again there will be plenty of room.<br />
<br />
Yes, I’m still watching the Phillies so you don’t have to! <br />
<br />
Ugh!<br />
<br />
Erik Whitacre <br />
@erikwhitacre Jay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-61375881699481002772015-06-02T16:25:00.000-04:002015-06-02T16:25:04.215-04:00Birthday MusingsView From the Left Coast from a Lefty: Birthday Musings<br />
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I woke up today feeling a bit sad. Today, I qualified for Medicare. If that's not enough to shake your tree then phuck you; you have no soul. I fully expected the Phils to automatically comply with my wishes and kick some Rockies ass. But no, it's like.....hey Bill, hell with your bday we're gonna play like crap. Damned if they didn't.</div>
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I have no illusions people. I've been a Phillies fan since 1958. I've seen better and worse. If you didn't live through 1972 you missed the low and high(Carlton Cy Young 27-10 when Phils were 59-103). Today's Phillies are merely a step towards the future. For the most part, I like the future even though our farm has been bad mouthed. I like Franco, I like Cody in LF, I love Odubey. Whoever put Revere in RF needs to be shot. RF is where your best outfielder and arm belong. I know this because that is where I played and also batted 3rd. Enough of this here, I verifed myself lol.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqySPfl8rQeDVfyF0pZzIMXMn9zO9dYuORheU9jQ_cxpGxopEP5zcedBIi_U06dNuRvaDAhIwzL_82h_RsR1yw7RbP8UI1qUN4ONC8yfsOW5yBZUTcAiAu6IAhtA5pcjcL2_wmdQRLJ-Y/s1600/steve-carlton-ball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqySPfl8rQeDVfyF0pZzIMXMn9zO9dYuORheU9jQ_cxpGxopEP5zcedBIi_U06dNuRvaDAhIwzL_82h_RsR1yw7RbP8UI1qUN4ONC8yfsOW5yBZUTcAiAu6IAhtA5pcjcL2_wmdQRLJ-Y/s200/steve-carlton-ball.jpg" width="200" /></a>We were all giddy when they won 6 in a row. Now it's -7 on the other end. Folks, this is to be expected from a team projected to be under .500. I hate having to write about a team that sucks but guess what, it's what we were dealt. I'm not happy either. To Erik: I'm glad you watch them so I don't have to because they basically make me sick. No fundamentals whatsoever, take fastballs down the middle and swing at low inside breaking stuff, on and on. I've said before half this team could not have played for my high school coach because we were taught better than they were. So where does the blame belong?</div>
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Mr Wriz not sure how much longer I can do this. Maybe Medicare has sapped me of all potential hope. Or maybe it's Rube. Whichever, I'm quickly approaching DB29 or DGirl status and I apologize. Maybe I'll feel better in the morning but chances are prolly not. At least I don't have to work in the morning and may only spend 4 hours at the SSA. Excuse me while I try to wade through all that bullshit and see where I land tomorrow. At least it's only 1 more day</div>
until the Stanley Cup Finals.<br />
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Bill S aka/netfather</div>
Jay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650067872457324412.post-73444034043232730312015-05-18T13:52:00.000-04:002015-05-18T14:09:07.362-04:00How Sweep It Is!<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1431970907597_2046">
<strong id="yui_3_16_0_1_1431970907597_2054">Hoodwink’d</strong><strong> </strong><strong>by cj hood</strong></div>
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<strong id="yui_3_16_0_1_1431970907597_2052"><em id="yui_3_16_0_1_1431970907597_2051">How Sweep It Is!</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em> </em></strong></div>
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<strong id="yui_3_16_0_1_1431970907597_2059">IT SAYS RIGHT HERE ‘REMOVE ASCHE & REPLACE WITH FRANCO’</strong></div>
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Oh snap! Don’t look now, but someone rang the CB Park’s doorbell and left a Swiffer Sweeper </div>
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right next to the Mike Schmidt statue. My goal here is to pen this piece, email it to the Wriz and get it on da blog spot before this glorious win streak ends! Our legion of Buntamaniacs didn’t think O’Sullivan could deliver a win, but low & behold you ‘doubting Thomaseses’ he did! A 5 game win streak including a sweep of the D*Backs! Granted the two Pirate wins were our faux Aces vs their duds and the D*Backs play like d*bags, but irregardless (not a real word) we got it diz-one!!! Now off to Colorado where the mountains are high and so are their residents. Will the streak hit 6? Will there be another sweep? Or will Ryan ‘Lloyd’ Braun get higher than Snoop Dog at a Denver Pot Café? Time will tell, but with Galvis’ hot bat and Franco ‘Everything But’ American on our side…the sky is the limit. (Assuming the sky is like my man cave ceiling #6fttall). But next week, when T*Mac announces the Phillies Star of the Week, he won’t be doing it with tongue planted firmly in cheek. This week was real, almost parade worthy. For a team still sitting in last place we need to appreciate the small stuff, so let’s celebrate good times…come on….</div>
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<strong>YOU KNEW THIS PIC WAS COMING.</strong></div>
<br />
-Why do they call Francoeur ‘Frenchy?’<br />
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-I hope they gave Cody Asche one of those whiffle ball bats before he left.</div>
-They were about to rename this team Amtrak prior to this win-streak.<br />
-The thrill is forever gone.<br />
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-Why did I just here about the Schmitter?</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1431970907597_2081">
-I went to Weather Day just for Sheena Parveen!</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1431970907597_2080">
-DB29 is 5 pounds away from never having to tuck a shirt in again.</div>
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-Chase is still the man!</div>
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-How ‘bout my man Howard!!!</div>
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-Remember Wriz Wednesdays. #flashbackmonday</div>
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-Did Rioter win the Preakness?</div>
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-The Marlins will collapse in T-Minus 3, 2, ……</div>
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-The ‘Dad-bod’ is now in! Where was this 20 years ago?</div>
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-Congrats Pap!</div>
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-Don’t throw the ball to someone unless they’re looking. #LittleLeague101</div>
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-The Kardashians have more ‘Daddy issues’ than the Skywalkers.</div>
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-My Phillies Mt. Rushmore: Schmidt, Carlton, Chase, Pete Rose. #comeatmebro</div>
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-Remember Netfather Bill. #throwbackmonday</div>
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-Wonder if the Poop Bandit has a Bunts tshirt?</div>
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-My son got up at 6:30am on a Saturday to do homework. Waiting on paternity test.<br />
-Meet & Greet V is one month away….let’s get ‘Bunted!!!</div>
Jay Wrizighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14648845472732449906noreply@blogger.com1