Making waves in the non-waiver zone - a recap of the trade deadline and beyond!

Wow, if I were to post each time the Pirates made a deal last wk, my little fingers would be typed off. As expected, the Pirates traded Freddy Sanchez and Jack Wilson. What wasn't expected was the deals of John Grabrow w/ Tom Gorzelanny thrown in for good measure. At first it was a shook to my system but when I saw young Lastings Milledge was getting the pass to Pittsburgh from Indy, I'll admit I was excited.

The new, young Bucs of tomorrow today busted out of the gate w/ two sweet wins over those dreaded Nationals. Although the wins were nice, I was great to see Nyjer Morgan looking all tall socky and smiles! But soon after the pep talk from Uncle Neil wore off and the new Pirates have come crashing back to earth w/ 4 straight loses; w/ last night being the hardest to stomach.

Holding on to a 2-1 lead after the other half of My Favorite Laroche's favorite laroch; Andy clubbed himself a 2 run homer, John Russell did what all in Pirate World is screaming about today -- he pulled Jesse Chavze for consistantly inconsistant Joel Hanrahan. I bet Ross, the boss was sitting in the dugout drowning in his own sweat as he helplessly watched is 6 innings of desent pitching and Chavze's one inning of light out 3 K's go down the toilet w/ each pitch Hanrahan throw or attempted to throw. In 10 short pitches, Joel walked a batter and flubbed what appeared to be the start of a possible double play to end the inning. He finally throw the slider to induce the ground ball he wanted right back to himself but then throw the ball right towards the ground in front to 2nd instant to tossing it toward's Ronny Cedeno's glove -- which not only prevents the double play but any chance of getting an out period. That led to holy Even Meek's hapless display of clutch pitching. Meek gave up two singles enabling the D-backs to take the lead for the win. Now the only thing that would have saved our fearfull reliever would be for 2 sole homers by sweet Garrett Jones and little Andy. We almost got our wish when Jone proved why he was named the NL rookie of the month by stroking home run #12 412 ft. over onto the river walk behind right center field! If only Dwelyn Young would have had a better at bat where he would have been on base prior to Jones getting up to bat -- we may have had us a tie game. But a "W" wasn't in our cards for last night. Hopefully tonight is a bit better.

On a side note, I must say I love the season tix. holder customer service folks. Our tix. rep. is off enjoying his honeymoon so I've been dealing w/ the customer service ladies. They have hooked me up greatly! Due to me finally working another game at my beloved PNC park, we've had to switch our tix. for Saturday and decided to go tonight. Tonight section 25 (right next to the dugout) row D -- I tell ya the truth we WILL smell them and I bet they all smell like heaven!!

Also, I must give a HUGE shout out to our favorite Twin fans who last wkend payed the Burgh a visit. It's great to know that there are more of us out there. More female baseball fans who not only love to look of the game but we know the game as well! You can be female, a baseball nerd, and sexy all together! Hope you ladies enjoy your floppy fishing caps!

Oh well, I'll post pics of Jack, Freddy, and Grabow as my way of saying "Thanks for the memories" later. Until next time -- LET'S GO BUCS!

Adam say "hello" to Boston!

Well, in only is 2nd game as a Red Sox, my favoriate laroche hit himself a 2 run blast into left center field. After coming home from seeing the Pirates of tomorrow last night, aka: the Altoona Curve, hammer their oppontants 9-3, I prompted logged into MLB.com to check on Adam. I feel sort of parental in the sense that I was one of the few Adam Laroche fans while he was in the Burgh and I don't just want to drop him like Uncles Neil and Frank have. I am a true fan of the sport so w/ that in mind, I clicked on the Red Sox's site link and to my enjoyment saw the gift Adam gave to his new fan base!

Despite going 0-3 last night against the O's, Laroche showed Bean Town his elegant swan like swing and drove the ball over the Green Monster wall of Fenway! Now I would just like to caution my Boston baseball brothern not to get too used that sight. Cuz after the A.L. pitchers get their first looks at Adam, they will have his number; which is he can't really hit off-speed pitches too well. You will hear your share of "and he swings and misses for strike 3" when Adam is at the plate. But he will dazzle you with his defense and give you glimpses of glory w/ that swing. But my request is simple, please take care of Adam and make him feel at home. He's a nice guy and a great teammate w/ a fun sense of humor. If ya treat him right, he will love ya back w/ more Adam Bombs!

Adam, thanks for the memories. And thanks for wearing #25 and encouraging Andy to wear #15 cuz now I don't have to retire my #25 t-shirt. I can just fashion myself a #1 and velcro it over the #2, thus, recycling the LaRoche "T" for the rest of the season. But rest assured sweet Adam, you will always be my favorite laroche!! Okay, step aside it's Andy time!

Finally a series win against those dreaded Brewers!

As the title suggests, our beloved Buccos finally did what they've been unable to do for 17 almost 2 years; win a 3 game set against cry'n Ryan Braun and those dreaded Milwaukee Brewers. On a day where it was all but certain that my favorite Laroche was outed out of Pittsburgh, the boys sent sweet Adam out on a winning note.

This game had all the excitement of a great game. There were the 5 home runs by the Pirates; 3 homers in one inning lead by some steller defensive plays by both teams and some great bullpen pitching by both teams as well. What can I say, Cutch happens?! Andrew McCutchen not only had a home run but also some great hits and caughts in center field. Then there is Garrett Jones! Mr. Jones had several fantastic hits w/ another deeeeeep homerun! And I have to mention my favorite catcher; Ryan Doumit! Since coming off of a 2 month broken wrist rehab stint, Doumit has done so much better than anyone expected. He alone hit 2 home runs in yesterday's win. But by far the best plays of the game were in both halves of the 9th when the Big Bull Rider himself aka Matt Capps, came in and was able to get both Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder to strike out to end a scoring threat in the top of the 9th. Then 5 minutes later on a 0-1 pitch, Brandon Moss showed the Pirate nation why Neil Huntington and John Russell like him and keep giving him a chance to wear a Pirate uniform. He slammed relief pitcher Stetter's pitch into the bullpen. With the entire Pirate's been jumping w/ arms in the air, it was proclaimed a home run. PIRATES WIN, PIRATES WIN!

Not only was it sweet revenage to take this series from those whiners in Milwaukee but it was freakn' great to see our boys throw the whole un-tuck their jersey tops right in front of the Brewers. See that's what the Brewers are known for. When they win a game, they promptly un-tuck their uni's. It was great fun I say!

A Picture Ode to My Favorite LaRoche; Adam

The Brother's Laroche sitting on the bench support their other "brothers" despite
Adam just learning he was traded.

Images of Adam's final game as a Pirate ~
he was getting ready to take a few warm-up swings in the batter's box.

A rare glimpse at Adam wearing "high water" socks during a throw back game earlier in June. Here he is w/ 3rd base coach, Tony Beasley after the 3rd out of the inning were he was on base. Out of the 3 games this summer where the Pirates wore some sort of throw back uni where tall socks was the look, this was the only game where Adam made an appearance. My Favorite Laroche girls jocked Adam had it in his contract that he refused to wear tall socks -- don't blame him there cuz he doesn't wear it well at all. He doesn't have the look I say!

This is a shot of Adam's great defensive abilities. Note how he uses his tall/long legs to stretch himself out and make the play at first to complete the double
play from either Jack or Freddy!



Adam is always ready to handle a pick-off attempt. Here you see Adam taking the throw from the pitcher as the base-runner dives back for safety. Again, notice how he uses his tall frame to protect against a stolen base. He's very leggy that Adam is!

Here's the strange stance that at times got the job done and
at times left us hang'n like a jilted bride at the alter.

The brother's Laroche sharing tender moments w/
Tony Beasley during batting practice.

I know I've posted this one before, but it's worth posting again. For about a full season, I've had the joy to watch Adam and Andy Laroche play the game they both love together - Andy at 3rd base and Adam at 1st. How cool that must have been
to feed your brother the ball for outs on a nightly basis?!

The other half of My Favorite Laroche always liked to say that Adam loved home cook'n. Well, despite his recent batting slump, eailer in the season that was true. Adam loved to go long yard at PNC Park. Here is Adam rounding 3rd
after hitting a bomb during a game.

Good Night My Sweet Prince

Well, it was bound to happen and it did. What you may ask? The departure of 1/2 of the brothers LaRoche. Yesterday our fare GM, Neil Huntington, pulled the trigger on a trade w/ the Boston Redsox w/ Adam LaRoche being the center of the deal. The Pirate nation was none too surprised by this turn of events. With Adam set to become a free agent at the end of the season combined w/ his slumping bat and high asking price of a salary for his production, the writing was on the wall for my favorite laroche.

The elder statesmen Laroche has been hammered in the blogsphere and media each of his 2 1/2 seasons w/ the Pirates. He had such a love hate relationship w/ the fans and media here in the Burgh. We loved to hate him for his under performance at the plate, the apparent lack of hustle in the field or rounding the bases, and his overall low key attitude. Many fellow bloggers took to calling him "Lachoke." And as noted on this very blog, he has had some very low moments at the plate w/ men in scoring position. But what seems to get lost is his glove. Adam is a darling at first. His tall frame and his long arms picked ball out of the dirt and stretched out to make a caught at a badly tossed ball many times; ensuring an out was recorded at first instead of an infield hit.

Despite the general fan base despising the elder Laroche, Adam commented in interviews yesterday that he wished he could have done more. He even went on to say he hopes the Pirates really turn it around and not just continue w/ the losing madness that's become part of Pirate baseball. He acted w/ class yesterday.

It is that same class that many local reporters and beat writers are now sharing in laments w/ the the general fandom. In several articles I've read, the beat writers talk about how easy going Adam was to interview and deal w/ on a daily basis in the clubhouse. He was always willing to give of his time to the media. And what's even more impressive is how much of a positive presence he was around the clubhouse. For being knocked for his apparent lack of passion, Adam was reported many times this season w/ being the veteran presence who would lead the closed door team meetings -- basically telling the guys to get their crap together and go out there and keep tyring harder. Adam was the veteran who took offence to cocky Carlos Beltran when he complained about being swept by the Pirates, that the Mets were a better team than us losers. Adam is the one who defended the organization to the media and called Beltran out as a "classless act." Adam was the guy who encouraged the youngsters such as Brandon Moss, Delwyn Young, and his brother Andy when they were struggling. He celebrated the victories of young Andrew McCutchen's walk-off single against the Indians and he took responsibility of his own poor performance.

And if you haven't got it by now, let me share one more reason Adam was an unsung hero for the Pirates. Yesterday he was benched for a day of rest. Despite the whole baseball world knowing he was traded to Boston before he did, Adam was in uniform sitting on the bench rooting his brothers on. When he got called into Huntington's office in the 6th inning to be informed of the trade, Adam decided to go back out and support his "boys." What a gentleman and a true leader? This guy's world has just been upset. He now has to uproot his family, find a place to live in the Boston area, mingle in w/ a new team, learn that team's way of doing things, and adjust to being a bench/role player instead of an every day guy. And in his own words, "it's a weird feeling." But despite his own emotions running high, Adam sucked it up and put himself last and focused on his team, or now x-team. And when Brandon Moss hit the walk-off homer to win the game in the bottom of the 9th yesterday, Adam was right there w/ the rest of the gang waiting at home plate to celebrate the victory over the Brewers. Wow, now that's true leadership! Stink'n Prince Fielder, the first basemen for the Brewers, couldn't understand why he was still on the bench and suited up when he was traded. Well Prince, let me tell ya it's because Adam Laroche IS the team player you should model and be like. You are half the 1st basemen Adam is w/ half his range and abilities on defense.

Although most of the Pirate nation is glad to see Adam go, I, for one, and a bit saddened. I loved watching his defense. I loved watching his sweet and very graceful swing. I loved watching him play baseball w/ his brother. But mostly, I loved his non-flashiness. He is a country boy who loves his hunting and outdoors and plays the game w/ intelligence and uses his body to his advantage. I'm going to missing seeing #25 caught the ball from #15, his brother Andy. I'm going to miss that rather interesting up-right batting stance. And I'm going to miss his center of gravity! Adam, may you find success, even if it's just for 2 months, in Bean-town!

It's finally over. . .until today.

Garrett gett'n his talk on w/ Jeff Salzar

(Btw, w/ Jones getting regular playing time, Andrew McCutchen in center field, and Salazar on the bench, the Pirates have the Indianpolis Indians outfield on the 25 man roster)

I'm a sucker for video board pictures -- esp. w/ a face like that!

You can just tell he talks to his bat before swinging it. I bet he's whispering sweet nothings to it!

Nothing more needs to be said -- he's lovely!

Now that I've seen him in Pirate's black and gold pants, I still prefer tall socks!

So after 17 straight losses to the Brewers, the Pirates finally figured out how to shake this demon off their backs by hammering the Brew Crew 8-5! Now I know that a 3 run lead may not be what you would call a "hammering" per say, but after leading the game by 6 runs in the 9th inning it looked like it was going to be on heck of a win. Oh, but Jesse Chavez thought we needed just a bit more action in what was a 2 hr. rain delayed and bottom of the 8th bench clearing rumble game. He decided after 2 outs to give up 3 runs but then was able to get the Prince (Fielder) of the home run derby to strike out, ensuring the win.

It was a game of big at bats for the likes of Mr. Adam Laroche, Ryan Doumit, and a much bigger at bats for sweet smiling Delwyn Young or DK as he likes to be called and our HOT bat Garrett Jones. Each coming through w/ home runs. Jones homer has been his 8 of his short Bucco season. Considering he's only been wearing Pirates black-n-gold for oh, about 3 wks now that's incredible. As John Russell has described and My Favorite Laroche girls can a test to, he liked what he saw in Bradenton w/ Jone's bat! Yes, we did like what we saw I say! It didn't hurt that the Brewer's defense SUCKED and their pitching even worse! They had something like 3 fielding errors. It was as bad as I've seen all season from a team.

Let's talk a moment on those dreaded Brewers. They've sort of been in a tail spin the past month or so. What started out as being a really hot season for them has cooled off to almost a winning freeze. They've gone from leading the division almost the entire season to dropping to 4th place right behind the Astros -- the freaking Astros is say! What's happening to the Crew? Are they pooping out? Maybe they've hit their quota of home runs for the season and now like the soup nazi -- it's NO WINS FOR YOU? I don't know, but I like it. Right now we are 3 out of our last 4 games after the All-Star Break. If the rain holds out and we play ball like last night, we maybe able to over come the dismal pitching as of late by one Virgil Vasquez. Boy would I like to see us win tonight to ensure a series win against the Brewers. That would be like Christmas Day to me!! But I'll settle for striking out cry'n Ryan Braun, Prince Fielder, and smacking Jason Kendell w/ a pitch on his back side for good measure!

Now as I sign off for today, I'll leave for you viewing pleasure more pictures of who's becoming a fan favorite; Garrett Jones when he was still in AAA. BUT FOR THE RECORD, WE SAW HIM FIRST!!

Homerun Derby and Garrett Jone

Garrett during pre-game warm-ups

Garrett showing everyone on the 3rd base side that he can drill the ball back to the plate!

The view might be fuzzy but I think ya get the picture -- Garrett's got a sweet swing!

A view of Garrett after he hit a streaking double -- darn water on the lens!

A sweet spot of Jones at 3rd base!


Depite Paul Maholm giving up a 5 run lead to the Mets and despite Matt Capps wasting Adam Laroche's bottom of the 9th 2 run homer, Garrett Jones made the 5 hr. of rainy baseball worth it! These are a few shot of the Jones lighting up the Burgh! I'll post spring training and AAA ball pics of Jones later! For now, hope you enjoyed the Garrett Jones show!

12 Games Under .500 but OH GARRETT JONES!

So the lack of "w's" have led to a lack of desire to update our fair blog. But on the heels of the All-Star game, I thought I would feature a Pirate all-star; Garrett Jones! Okay, maybe Jones is just an all-star in our minds, but if his bat remains as hot as he is then despite the standings it will be a fun rest of the summer watching Pirate baseball.

Before I dazzle you with my photo skills of Mr. Jones, I must set the stage. My Favorite Laroche girls were sitting in Dunedin, Fl watching warm-up's and batting practice as we eagerly waited for our Bucs to take on the Blue Jays. I was standing in earnest trying to get a few balls signed for myself and my friend's boys. One of the players that game over to me was sweet little Garrette Jones. He signed my ball (and I must say he has perfect handwriting to go w/ his perfect. . .tan, yeah, that's right!) and had a chance to chat w/ him for a bit. I told him what fun it's been to watch him play and hit so well and that I hoped to see him in the Burg some day. I found my way back to my seat and shared my baseball signages I was able to garner with the other half of My Favorite Laroche. I showed her my Jones ball and we both realized he was "just beautiful" as my friend would say! So not only were we watching our favorite Laroches but we were on Jones watch as well! Then it came, Garrett had a nice hit and has he found his way back to the dugout, I yelled something like "way to go Garrett." And that's when it happened, he looked up and gave My Favorite Laroche girls a thumbs up and a sweet smile! Mind you we were sitting about 4 rows away from the dugout so we knew the Jones love was ment for us!! That made the whole Dunedin Day worth it.

Now with the stage set, the trading of Nyjer Morgan led to Mr. Jones finding his way from Indy to Pittsburgh. Playing left field has lent itself to be a bit of a challenge for Jones but there's no doubt his bat hasn't found PNC Park too challenging. Jones has hit several homeruns since being called up not to mention the base hit and extra base hits he's delivered! As you will see soon, Garrett's a leggy, tall guy but he's swift and speedy like the wind! The boy can run him some bases! I will say, despite some bad baseball the Pirates have been playing lately, sitting in our seats on the 3rd bases line clearly remains the best place to view the game -- wink, wink!

Ode to Nyjer Morgan a.ka. Tony Plush and the Polar Bear, Eric Hinske

Despite being picked off 10 out of 28 steal attempts, one of the most exciting thing is seeing Nyjer steal 2nd. He loves to slide and get all dirty w/ his trade mark chew stain all over his jersey.

Another view of Morgan on 3rd -- notice his tall socks!! We like tall socks!

Morgan is very speedy -- this is Tony Plush sitting on 3rd trying to score
for the Bucs!

This is T-Plush and Little Andy doing during their pre-game warm-up stretches. Okay, a bit of a side bar here. . . but doesn't little Andy look good?! Oh, and we love the alternate "P" jeresies!

This is a shot of Morgan at the plate during Spring Training. Nyjer's walk-up music is "Blow the whistle" As he walks up, he's sort of dancing as he steps up to to the plate. He digs in and w/ that wide stance, he continues to do his little dancing bobble as he awaits the pitch. He really is swinging to
the music in his head!

This was Nyjer being introduced during Open Day at PNC

Wow, it's been a really busy day for Uncle's Neil and Frank! First we open the door the our old friends the Yankees when they come-a-calln' for a right handed bat. And next, the Nationals finally wore us down like a really bad want-a-be prom date. After much haggling, we wrapped up and shipped Utility Man Eric Hinske, Left Fielder Nyjer Morgan and Relief Pitcher Sean Burnett all w/ big red bows and a nice card attached to their respective buyers.

Now Burnett I'm not really too sad over. Yeah, he has turned his crap around lately by being a rather decent 1 out guy. But Sean, really can ya try to wear your hat stright in Washington? He always had that "deer caught in the head lights" look about him. As the other half of My Favorite Laroche likes to say, "he's caughtn' flies" w/ his mouth hanging all open.

I wasn't even to bothered to see sweet Hinske gone. If you're wondering why I called him a polar bear, well, in a between innings Q & A blurb one of the questions was some thing like if you were an animal which one would you be. Well, Mr. Eric promply proclaimed he would be a polar bear cuz of his size. I liked his imagination so his nickname has stuck w/ me.

But sweet polar bear hasn't really been as productive as what was thought he'd be. He signed a 1 year deal as he came into spring training; battleing w/ others for a roster spot as a bench player. He did win it, but hasn't done much else since. Yeah, he's made a few good defensive plays and had a few quality at bats, but the power's just not there and he's left alot of runners stranded. So, I'm glad Neil pulled the trigger and moved Eric to open up a spot for who else. . . but sweet Garrett Jones! I'll comment later on Jones cuz he deserves his own post! But I'll tease ya w/ he's darn tan and HOOOOT! He makes minor league tall pants look extremely good!

But the move that stuns me the most is Nyjer Morgan. I've been a fan ever since he was called up last season when Xaiver Nady was hurt. I remember seeing him and wondering why his uni. didn't fit him right. His hat was huge on him and his pants just hung off of him. But he has grown into his big league clothes this season! He may not be that good at the plate, he is above avg. in defense. And what he lacks in offense, he makes up in character! He's just sooo much fun to watch. He loves to enteract w/ the crowd in left center field. And his playful attitude seemed to be infectious throughout the ball club. I loved to see him chest bump the Pirate Parrot as he would run out for pre-game warm ups and as he took the field for the first inning. Sweet Tony Plush got his name cuz during and interview, he made the comment that "my gentlemen's name is Tony Plush." That nickname has really caught on w/ the fan base. Hopefully the fans in D.C. will appreciate T-Plush as much as we here in the Burg have.

I'm not sure about the players the Bucs recieved in return, but I'm willing to give them all the benefit of the doubt. After all, Uncle Neil's last trade has seemed to work out well so far. And again, not only do we get to see Garrett Jones in Pirate's black and gold, but after tomorrow we will see Jeff Salazar in left field as well. He's another spring training, minor league free agent signee that has smoked AAA. Tomorrow's game will be interesting to say the least.

Now a few T-Plush pictures for you viewing enjoyment!

2 hard loses in 2 days = the boys need a day off. . . or the mets to come to town.

Well, it's been a rough few days for the boys in black and gold. Yesterday they faced the hard to hit Grienke from the Royals. They did manage to have his number but those darn rain drops had to kill the 7th inning rally. But Sir Adam was 3-3 w/ a walk and little Andy batted his brother in on a full triple o right field. It was rather exciting to see the ball up close and personal hit off the wall while Andy motored to 3rd.

But how quick the tides to turn. Cuz today, Sir Adam could see the ball if it were placed on a tee and Don Long was hand over hand swinging w/ him. Three strike outs and a soft ground out isn't going to cut it Big A! However, my grieve tonight actually lies w/ sweet sweaty, UN-steady Freddy Sanchez. C'mon son, ya need to get the ball throw the gaps when the bases are loaded. He left too many men stranded that were in scoring position. After out hitting the Cubs 9 hits to 7, the Pirates should have won this one. We are a dismal 10-22 against teams in the central division. We need to start beating teams in our division if we're going to be taken seriously. C'mon it's the Cubs -- they have more head cases on their team than we have power hitters. We should be aiming for the Milton Bradley's of the Cubs. I watched their game against the White Soxs on Saturday -- they loked horrible out there. We need to take advantage of their head-cases and smack'm around a bit.

Oh well, I guess we can't win them all but it would sure be nice to try. We've lost two in a row. We now need to win the next two in order to stay somewhat competitve w/ our division -- and let's hope the Astros start sucking again like they did at the start of the season. But even if we lose, the Mets will be in town Thursday for the make up came. The way they are playing, we should be able to complete the true sweep and take the 4 game from them here at home. Don't worry boys, you can knock around some Met's tail in a few days.

See at the Ball park!

Another Interleague "W" off the bat of another Bucco homerun

Jack Wilson rounding 3rd after he hit his 2nd dinger of the year.
He's been robbed on several occations at PNC but not last night!
(pic. courtsey of the post-gazette)

Four home runs in 2 games by 4 different buccos - ya got to love that!

I think our boys love wearing the throw back uni's. They've kicked some tail in all three that they've worn either the 1909 turn back the clock jersey or the throw back nergo league Homestead Gray's jersey. And I must confirm these uni's look sharp and make the boys look like real baseball players! One added bonus to the throw backs are the tall socks. I must say, seeing all most the entire team wearing the high sturp pants brings as sense of nostalgia. Baseball, afterall, is the sport of the 1900's. It's what ya think off when you picture that time in sports history. Greats like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and of course Honus Wagner. But I must say, the off white Gray's uniform was by far the uni that looked the nicest on the boys. But despite Adam trying to rock the throw back, his high water looking pants were too fun to observe.

So tomorrow the boys go back to using the standard Sunday day game jersey. Let's hope that by shedding the throw backs, the boys don't lose their bat power in the process. C'mon, in two games, mostly every player in the line up that at least one hit. Last night we saw Jack Wilson, Jason Jaramillo, and my left fielder w/ the potty mouth, Nyjer Morgan all hit home runs. Tonight, we had Delwyn Young get it done w/ his 3 run blast but he didn't stop there, he also showed he can do something on defense by grapping 6 pop-ups in right field. Guys like Adam and Freddy also had big at bats in the past two games too. Even little Andy got into the mix by smacking a triple off the left field wall that also hit the outfielder right on his head -- ough! Overall, it's been an electrifying to watch.

On the pitching end of the game, Paul Maholm found his groove after a few shaky innings. He showed why he's the #1 started in the rotation by only walking one, striking out 2-3 and basically throwing strikes for contact and allowing his steller defense, headed by Jack Wilson, to have his back. And last night performance by the newly called up Virgil Vasquez was incrediable. Coming out of Spring Training, Vasquez didn't really garner favorable comments. He has a power arm but like most of our power arms; lacked location and control. Well, he must have ate his wheaties cuz ol boy was dealing first pitch strikes like I miss spell words. But Virgil, do something w/ your hair son. I know minor leaguers don't really rake the cheese in terms of salary but c'mon, I'm sure you can spare the $20 for a trim. If not, I've got me some great scirrors. I can trip ya around the cap. As I watched him do his pre-game warm-ups, I noticed his hair conformed around his cap like a set of wings on his head. If ya don't believe me, check out this pic. from the Post-Gazette.

Only 5 games out of first and 4 games under .500 -- YOU CAN DO IT! Now if only those pesky Astros would begin to crap their pants and lose some games, we would be able to leap frog over them and be even more the mix of things. We've got one more game w/ the Royals and then a 3 game set w/ the Cubs. After watching the Cub's game today, I'm thinking we've got a shot at taking at least 1 maybe 2 games from them.

Okay, off to dream a little dream of you!

"Cutch Happens!"

(Peter Diana/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)

Okay I'm stealing my title from one Mr. Rocco Demaro who hosts Pirates extra innings after the radio broadcasts of the games. Last night after the Pirates provided me w/ my first of the season walk off win, Rocco coined the phrase "Cutch Happens." I like it! I like it a lot I say!

What started out as a semi-decent quality start by Ross Ohlendorf where he gave up 2 runs on 5 hits w/ 3 walks and 2 strike outs, turned out to be a nail bitter right down to the last batter! My theory of Pirate hitters unloading a ton of offense and scoring junk loads of runs in one game and then going cold fish in the next, seemed to be playing out rather well last night. Face the Indian's Ace pitcher, Cliff Lee, the Buc's bats were barly moving. Lee was rather effecient in is pitching; striking out a lot of my beloved bucs. But then came the 6th and the Pirates began to play small ball and it payed off; cutting the lead in half. The very next inning Lee seemed to lose his composure and gave up a game tieing score in when he walked McCutchen w/ the bases loaded. But the moment game in the Pirate's half of the 9th. Jack Wilson tempted fate and stole 3rd w/ one out. And young, dynamic Andrew McCutchen was staring down the Indian's bullpen hack w/ a 0-1 count, McCutchen sharply signled to left field to score the winning run!

After seeing this youngester in Spring Training and getting a chance to chat w/ him as he signed a ball for me, I knew he was going to be everything he as tauted as. As many blog posts and articles pointed out in the latter days of spring training, Andrew made it REALLY difficult for the front office to send him back to AAA. But Kyle Stark, Director of Player Developement, at a gut instinct that McCutchen needed a little more "seasoning" as they called it. And seasoning was completed in timely fashion! Not only can he hit, which he's now sporting a 13 day hitting streak, but he's fast as all get out, and because of that quickness, he's got center field LOCKED DOWN!

As I read blogger from around the net, reports and articles from baseball gurus and stat keepers, I'm seeing a trend in what all are saying. Each avenue of baseball news points to Andrew McCutchen only becoming a greater factor in the Pirate's drive to turn the page of losing to meaning baseball again in the Burgh!

If that can't get ya excited for Pirate's baseball consider this. A mear 160 miles or so, roughly 2 1/2 hrs., in a small country town of Altoona Pa rests a team called the Altoona Curve. This is very important because the Curve happen to be the AA Minor League team for the Pirates. Basically, Altoona is 2 stops away from PNC Park. Right now, as of this week, our #1, #2, and #3 hitting positional players prospects are all nestled in Altoona wearing Curve colors and perfecting more their skills at Blair County Ball Park (BCB). In most estimations, 2 of these players will be drilling pitches off the Clemente Wall in about 2 years. Combine that w/ our top pitching prospects are all either in AA or already in Indy at AAA and our #1 draft pick from 09 is already signed and in the system working on his skill-set, the Pirates are positioning themselves for greatness in the not so desent future!

It's a great time to be a Pirate's fan!! Ya better jump on the carvan now while there's still room cuz w/ Pedro hitting his second homer in as many games and w/ Brad Lincoln wiffing pitches past AAA hitters, the bus may fill up fast very soon!!

LET'S GO BUCS!

Raise the Jolly Roger - Cleveland still sucks!

Take notice to this swing cuz it's the swing of victory! Adam hit is second in as many games tonight to continue his trend of hitting well at home. He was 3-4 tonight w/ his SECOND stolen base of the season! Ya don't expect that from him. After all his. . .well. . . the slowest player on the roster - but not tonight I say. Even Greg Brown comment that Adam was "feeling a little feisty." And feisty he was! Not only another sold offensive night but he took care of business w/ his glove as well.

And yep, Zack Duke came home and found his command right where he left it -- in the strike zone at PNC Park! I would contend that Duke is our Ace of the rotation and in a perfect world leap frogs to the #1 spot! Again, not only was Duke dealing outs to the Indians but the first run was created off of Duke's bat! He's the alround guy we need more of.

Not only was Adam smacking the ball around, but mostly every one in the line up was laying on the lumber tonight. Got to give some shout outs for sweet Jason Jarmillo! The boy wonder behind the plate that we snagged from the Phillies for jogging Ronny hit is #3 home run of the season. I'll swallow my words and say I'm glad he's the back up to Ryan cuz his arm is great behind the plate, he calls a nice even game, and he's doing soooo much better than expected w/ the bat. Sadly I don't have a pictures transferred of J.J. so show the virtual world our diamond in the rough, but I shall recify that later.

Overall, great win for the bucs -- we now need the Astros to suck wind so we can climb out of the basement! Looking forward to tomorrow's rubber match from the PBC club -- hopefully the rain holds off at least until we get the lead!

Ian Snell smells but thank goodness for the Adam Bomb!

Adam Laroche sporting the ultra super Alternate Jeresy! Isn't it nice?!!!

On a night when our #2 rotation guy was facing a #4 rotation guy, ya'd think the Pirates would be assured a "W" . . . Well. . . this the Pirates we are talking about here. That so didn't happen.

I can't even sugar coat this train wreck that is Ian Snell w/ any colorful verbage. Snell SUCKED big time - and I mean BIG TIME. Even sweet quite, positive John Russell had to admit in his post game interview that Snell's focus, command, arm, everything was gone. He tried to put a good spin on it by saying he usually gets better as the game goes on. . .but he didn't. Now if this management team is serious about holding players accountable for their performance, then Snell needs to be benched at best. But honestly, I would love to see him back in AAA -- Indy needs another head case to even out Gorzo. and Rule 5 draft pick himself; Donny Veal. That gesture would sound the alarm that inconsistant play is NOT expectable any longer in the Burg! That would go along way to repair the fizzling fan-base who are still bitter party for many over the Bay, Nady, and most recently, McClouth trades.

Personally, I would like to see Coach Joe use Snell as the batting dumpy for bullpen side sessions. Maybe after getting plunked by his fellow bad pitchers would show him just how important it is to pitch inside correctly -- FIRST PITCH STRIKES IAN! On a more hostile level, what if Coach Joe use his trusted bat to "show" Ian how batters are hitting his pitches -- and if he comes a bit too close to Ian's head. . .well. . .that's baseball!

But this "L" can't be totally blamed on Smell, I mean snell! Albeit, about 95% of the losing effort is his fault, the other 5% must be blamed on the lack of offense - again. When Cleveland gave us a few free passes, we couldn't capitalize on them. Until the ill-fated rally in the 9th, we could only muster 3 hits, that's it 3 lousy hit. So it's not like the bats were helping to dig them out of the hole Snell put them in. But in their defense, our boys Andrew McCutchen, Robizon Diaz, and my favorite Laroche, Adam did have some deep, and I mean deep fly outs. Actually, about another foot or so and McCutchen would have had a 3 run jack. But it wasn't to be and even w/ the 9th inning resurgence we couldn't drive in the tieing or even winning runs.

But the night wasn't all bad. On a personal note, I made a new friend! And the other half of My Favorite Laroche found out she has a really good text message plan! And there was a nice 465 ft. home run by the elder Laroche to start the 9th and avoided a shut out by a really bad team. But in true Adam form, he w/ the bases loaded he flies out the end the game. Now Adam's not really a singles kind of hitter. He either jacks them, grounds out, strikes out, or comes up w/ a double. I was expecting a strike out but was hoping for a 4th ball to walk the tieing run in but alas that didn't happen.

If there is any comfort in last night's baseball world, it is the Brewers lost and Houston suffered an "L". That means we are still only 2 wins away from getting out of the basement. And the Brewers are 2 games under first place! Hopefully Zack Duke can regain his winning ways and lead us to the promise land of victory! Not sure if I'll catch the game tonight. I'm not sure I want to put myself through the pain and agony that is Pirate's baseball. I may opt to spend a relaxing evening fishing at Brady's Run. They need my bait more than I need to ulcer!

Coaches, #1 draft pickes, and rather bad baseball. . . that's a minor league life for me!

So our trip through Ohio was rather uneventful. My Favorite Laroche girls found our way there and back w/o any Ohio mishaps. That a really big accomplishment considering I'm the car story queen!

The excitement was building for seeing sweet little Tony Sanchez in his catcher's gear on the way to the Scrapper's doghouse known as Eastwood Field. Upon parking and retrieving our tickets from will-call, we found our way into Scrapper's central.

SIDE BAR: so at every spring training and minor league venue we've been too, bag check is a normal part of the baseball experience. I've come to expect and get ready for the boys and girls from security to grap my bag and ask "any open food in here" and "what's in the bottle?" but I guess the resident's of Niles, Oh are much more trusting then those in Pa and in Fl cuz I walked right through w/o unstrapping my back-pack for the pre-game rifling of security. A bit odd I say, but it's Ohio -- they grow them weird them in Ohio!

Okay back to the subject matter at hand which is Tony Sanchez! The #1 draft pick for the 2009 first year player's draft was no in the line up (which bursted our joy ballon when My Favoriate Laroche girls saw the lineup card) BUT there indeed a Tony Sanchez sighting - as evidenced by the various photos provided by yours truly! I've got confuse, he's a bit smaller than I suspected. From all the grieve the baseball world was giving the bucs for drafting a "over body type" 4th pick, first round player, he's not only shorter but his frame isn't at all Ronny Pulinoish! I was expecting to see a mid-size, round, version of everyone's catcher to hate; joggn' Ronny!

As you will see from the pics. young Sanchez enjoyed the company of his teams by helping w/ warm-ups and tossing the ball around between innings not to mention he spend quite a bit of time w/ 2-5 (who we think is the hitting coach of the Spikes). I mention #25 cuz. . . well. . . ya couldn't help but notice the size, shape, and curves of his. . . clip-board! He was busy each every hitter, charting pitches and hits. Further investigation is needed to determine who #25 is and how he can make our baseball viewing more enjoyable!

So on to the game itself. Well, there's really not a lot of positives to mention here. As the fellow beside me exclaimed, "this is like kindergarden for them." Yep, that was the feeling. Both teams made critically BAD, and I mean BAD throwing error -- only 2 were awarded to State College and 4 to the Scrappers but more should have been asset to each team. At times, I felt like was I was watching my friend's 12 yr. little league game. The baserunning wasn't much better for the Spikes. Not once, not twice, but THREE different occasions, a Spike base runner in scoring position was tagged out due to slow or mistake-ridden running. Some decent hitting combined w/ poor defense and pitching from the Scrappers led to runs #1 and #2 for the Spikes in the 7th. This led to a mini rally but the Spikes couldn't complete the comeback and fell by one run.

Now back the kindergarden reference for a minute. Now I've only seen 2 short season games but think about, many of these young players on both teams just stepped off the college campus like a month ago. If I had to take a guess, I'm assuming the avg. age is somewhere around 20 or so. These guys are baseball babes so to speak. So it's no surprise that bad baseball is part of the ticket price to a short season, Low A minor League game. You almost have to expect it and cheer them on despite the mistakes and mishaps. The transition from feel willing college student to professional baseball player probably will take all of this season and part of the next. The manager and the coaches not only have to nurture the baseball skills of their players but also the maturing and growing process of those same players. The other half of the MFR (My Favorite Laroche) said it best when she commented that the coaches probably feel like Mrs. Garrett from the Facts of Life (if you're old enough to get that reference, welcome to the old farts club w/ us!).

So, I feel it's our duty as Pirate fans and part of the Pirate nation to applaud our bucs of the future no matter how terrible they look. A good shot of encourage never hurt anyone! If that doesn't work, I'm sure Brandon Moss or Adam Laroche would lend the Spikes staff their rifels for some Spikes target practice!

Oh well. . .baseball's a long season. Hopefully they can right the damn ship!

Off to see the Big Club try and do the same righting of their damn ship tonight. Look out Cleveland, our boys are hungry for a win. And I'm sorry it's going to be on your dime and at your expense!

The Other SANCHEZ -- he's a catch they say!

Well. . .my weekend of hospital visits and curve baseballs is over. I had planned on posting about Saturday night's curve game but was a bit cheesed off at John Grabow and Jesse Chavez for blowing the lead that I couldn't bring myself to type anything positive about the Pirates. After all, my gram used to tell me that if I can't say anything nice then don't say anything at all.

Now even though Steady Sweaty Freddy Sanchez willed a strong bat but let the sun hurt his eyes, I have to say nice things about him cuz c'mon he's a doubles machine! So, despite Paul's poor outing and despite the somewhat lack of offense, I still see the glimer of hope when I see Adrew McCutchen's 5th triple of the year! Hopefully we can take out our frustations on those poor Cleveland Indians and those sad K.C. Royals!

As I wait for tomorrow night's town hall mt. w/ Uncle Frank, Cousin Neil, and Brother Bob, (I'm more excited about the free food over the rousing roar from un-happy season ticket holders), I've decided tomorrow is too long to wait for my daily fix of all thing Pirates.

So, MyFavoriteLaroche girls will be hiking it to Niles Oh, home of the MV Scrappers, to see our future catcher, Tony Sanchez (our other favorite Sanchez) as he does his short stint w/ the State College Spikes before he becomes "West Virginia, Wild and Wonderful!"

With notepad and camara in hand, it is shaping up to be a great day for some sweet Kodak moments! We're row A right behind the vistor's on-deck circle! Great view of home plate -- it's a fantasic view for watching the pitches come over the plate.

So stay tuned for a minor league update of all things Tony Sanchez. Oh, go vote for Pedro -- he's a Curve! Ya know you're a baseball nerd when you plan your visits home w/ the minor league schedules for your local teams!

The GOOD, the BAD, and the VERY UGLE plays of the week

Wow, just when I think I'm going to have a lot of good stuff to talk about, our free swinging pirates forget they are in the "show" instead of little league. So instead this post being a week of bragging and rubbing the naysayers face our "W's", I feel I must be fair and both salute and boo the bucco boys.

I think I'll start in reverse order - going from ugly to good.

Why you ask? Well. . . I could be all serious on ya and give you the leadership reasons for ending positively instead of on a down note. But. . . frankly, I don't want to be so depressed that I run out and jump on the hockey bandwagon and start rooting for the Pens out of desperation. Nor do I want to be so saddened that I decide a Malkin jersey is worth my coin over say an Andy LaRoche Alternate Jersey. So for my mental health and my checkbook, I'm going to finish strong!



The UGLY:

** Oh, sweet little Zack Duke -- I think you left you command for the strike zone on your kitchen table. Maybe you should have called your sweet wife to bring it do you ~ just a thought! Simply the worst outing you've had all season. Now that it's out of your system can we get back to you being our ACE in the 3 hole of the rotation?
** Darn doom! Actually, darn doom designers! Did ya design the roof of the doom to be white so you could sit back and watch the foolies of the opposing team's outfielders? I'm sure you get some perverse pleasure out of watching grown men turn into little leaguers looking for the ball.



The BAD:

** Andrew McCutchen, Nyjger Morgan, and Delwyn Young -- thank goodness you all had some okay at bats cuz your defense sucked boys! No outfield errors all season and now in one week we have like 3 or 4.
** Coming to a inning near you: The Rally Killer; Adam LaRoche. Now generally, I've got your back Adam. When others poo-poo you and say you need to hit the road, I am quick on the draw w/ your excellent 1st base skills. Only a redneck like you could stretch yourself out to get the kill at all costs. Some times when Freddy or your brother throws you a dirt ball, I'm amazed at your ability to pick it for the out. But. . .But, I can't overlook the numerious strike outs, double plays, or pop ups you inflicted on the Pirate nations -- ending any chance of climbing out of the hole our pitchers put us in. Are ya trying to push us away? Well it's working ol Buck Commander! I for one would like to see ya sign a one-year and hold down the fort at first. Partically cuz you're that good but mostly cuz I like that way first looks w/ ya on it!
** Craig Monroe and Eric Hinske -- boys, boys, boys, you're suppose be an up-grade over last year's bench not a lateral move. Craig, did ya blow your load of home runs all in spring training? What happened to that fearless, aggresive batter I saw hit 3 homers in one game against your old team the twins? This time you went like O for almost the entire series. I know going back to the doom set off your post tramatic stress disorder for all things American League. Do ya need a counselor? Go talk to coach Joe Kerrigan. I bet he and his trusted friend mr. bat can nock some sense into you. And sweet Mr. Hinske, I know if you could be an animal you would be a polar bear. But it was only a stupid question for a between innings antic. You don't have to really try to be all cold and hiberating. Spring is almost over and summer will be here -- all the little sleeping bears are wide awake and roaring around. Why not try being a black bear -- now those are some feared animals. And they don't get hunted until Feb. So go nuts and smack the cover of the ball a little before you end up going from playing w/ a World Series team to an up and coming team to the Washington Nationals!


And lastly. . . The GOOD:

** The power is back on in our bats! Thank you Uncle Neil, Cousin Frank, and Grandpa Bob Nutting for finally paying the homerun bill. I was wondering if the MLB revoked our usaged and ability to use the long ball in our offensive side of the game. To see Tony Plush (aka Nyger Morgan), both LaRoche brothers, and young Andrew McCutchen hit home runs was a thrill and almost brought tears to my eyes! Now I have one request boys, can we see it at PNC soon? We need to see more bucco blasts other than the blasts of strike outs and ground outs. And if I could be so forward as to request a few home runs on June 28 and 29. See guys I'm going to be sitting behind you w/ my friend's boys and I would like for them to get a chance to see a homerun coming at them! I promise if we caught your ball, I will only sell it for $9.99 plus the game stub on ebay! (a little inside joke people - sorry for that)
** Who would have thought Ian Snell would be listed as "good"? Is it Halloween or April Fools day? Because surely the world is upside down when Ian Snell actually pitches desently and gets the win and Zack Duke pitches like crap and gets the lose. Ian, thanks for packing your head on straight and for "maning up" and throwing inside. I see coach Joe's batting dumbie is working for ya. Oh wait sorry, I guess you're just tired of BEING coah Joe's batting dumbie! What happened did Rule 5 (aka Donnie Veal) hit ya in the head too much? Is that what happened - did he or Jesse Chavez finally nock the whineness out of you? Regardless, you did well Ian - can we see it again in say. . . 3 days?!



Well, I guess that's the highlights for now. I'm sure I could say more about the good hitting of young Delwyn Young and Jason Jamillo, but #23's play in right field overshadows that and J.J.'s rough tosses to second cancels out his improved plate apperances. I could also wax on at how sweet Andy continues to be a defensive god at 3rd while continuing his nice approach at the plate. And then there's the whole McCuthen rave. I've said from the day of the trade that Andrew was going to rock our socks off. . . and he is! A few tweaks here and there and we've got ourselves a cash cow of wins people!

I'm going to end this with this rousing call to arms. We need to rally and cheer the boys NOW more than ever. We are sitting about the same place in terms of wins vs. loses as last season. We are tied for 4/5th place respectively w/ the Astros. And, our pitching and defense has been at top of our game al season -- we lead many stats for pitching and defense across the Majors. So now isn't the time for our boys to tap out and give up. We can make a difference in our division. We can be the sleepers who come back to contend. To borrow a slogan from Obama: "YES, WE CAN - change!" It's our time now and in the near future. Let's show our boys the same love we showed the Pens last wkend. Let's wear our Pirate gear w/ honor and let's shout
"LET'S GO BUCS!

Throwing back the clock. . .a trip down Francie's memory lane.

I am currently reading a series on a fellow blogger entitled "Why I Love Baseball." This blogger is diving into the roots of the sport and connecting it to live in generally but more specifically his live. As I read this blogger's reason for why he likes this truly all homegrown, 100% pure American sport, I can't help but ask myself that same question. So for the next few sentences, I hope to briefly scratch the surface as to why I like baseball.

As with most avid followers of the sport, you would think it was because I was reliving my childhood days of playing little league, school softball, or back-yard ball games -- but alas afraid not. I'm not terribly old but old enough that when I was a kid, little league really wasn't for girls. I remember wishing I could play for good ole Read Township, but it really wasn't looked upon as a girl's thing. By the time I hit high school, I was just not that into being on competitive sports teams. I tried my hand at Jr. High basketball and realized I just wasn't that sold on the win or die trying attitude. I just wanted to have fun. So what could possibly cause me to invest in season tickets, going to spring training, getting a job at PNC Park, and overall just being a Pirate's/ baseball junkie?

The answer is more meaningful than reliving childhood adventures or regrets of what could have been. It's about a man. A man named Denver Beers - my grandfather. He's the reason I follow this game w/ such passion and intensity. Growing up I spent a lot of time w/ my pap. He was a huge baseball fan. Even before cable, my pap would watch the Wide World of Sports game of the week while having a radio w/ the Pirates game sounding off beside him. And when Ted Turner started WTBS, that was heaven for my pap. For the six months of the season, my pap would watch every Brave game, Cubs game on the Chicago station and as many Pirate games as he would either listen to or watch. With each visit and night spent, my grandfather shared his love for the sport w/ me.

Each season, I would cheer on the buccos and listen to my pap jab me for picking losers! He had silly names for my favorite players such as Baby Bonds. We would even enter into friendly wagers on games - nothing serious by I do remember getting a few bike out of the deal not to mention a ball glove. But my most fond bet with my pap was the $2 bet we made for a Pirates/Braves game. That time the Pirates won - he gave me the $2 in a picture frame. The next match up the Braves took. I couldn't just give the frame back, so I taped $2 in all pennies front and back to a piece of construction paper and gave it to him. Antics like that made for fun memories but more importantly fueled my passion for baseball. I had to actually sit down and watch the game and understand what was going on in order to debate and pick w/ my pap. Those were definitely cherished days that I wouldn't trade for anything in the world!


Even though my grandfather is no longer w/ me, he isn't too far a way from my memory each time I enter a ball park. On many occasion at a Pirates game, I've had to stop, close my eyes and just think to myself how much pap would love to be there w/ me and how much I would love to share these baseball moments w/ him now. I know my grandfather would be proud of the women I've become but I think He would be just as proud of the baseball fan I've turned into. It's not about the glamour, lights, over-payed talent, or even the cute butts. But baseball is more simply put, about catching a ball, throwing a ball, and hitting a ball. It's about 9 guys doing more together than one single player can do on his own. This sport is by definition both a team and individual sport. Individuals make play, make at bats, make catches but the team puts all those individual skills to use for a win or a loss.

Sitting in Sunday's throw back game where the Pirates and the Tigers wore 1909 replica uniforms, I found the whole day more relaxing and less busy of an event. No music, no video boards, no between inning antics - just the noise of the crowds that's all we needed. I remember snapping this picture and thinking how this is must have been what my grandfather experienced when I watch his first baseball game. I felt a connection to not just my past w/ my grandfather but to his as well. I hope you too have a reason for why you like baseball. I know I do.

So the next time you go to a baseball game, whether it be a little league game or a major league game, close your eyes and reconnect w/ baseball past and present. It's a great American heritage that has been past down to generations and will be past down to generations to come.

Deep in the Heart of Texas (clap, clap, clap)

So I was hoping to post these pics. with a few taunting jabs after we grabbed 2 of 3 from the Astros, but Fat Elvis, aka Lance Berkmen, and his trusted sidekicks Carlos Lee and Hunter Pence decided to bust out of their respective slumps. But just because we lost doesn't make me a spoil-sport, I shall post my jabs w/ honor:

Even though my darling right fielder in tall socks smashed a homer, a triple, and several other good hits this weekend, I must give mad love to HUNTER PENCE! The first time I saw him as we peered out the fencing behind the handi-cap seating screen in right field, I was became a Pence fan. For starters, his name is just so darn fun to say in an over-exaggerated why. Second, c'mon he looks 12 - I feel like I should be rooting for the little league Astros instead of the Houston Astros. But I'll give the tall socks wearn' youngn' his props - he's an okay outfielder but a better batter. He puts so much energy and facial expressions into is swing that frankly provides the funnest at bat pics I've seen.

Now on to the fun stuff. Check out Carlos Lee - I know I've been forced to since he is the Astros' left fielder and I sit on his side of the field. Ya know, Nyjger, aka Tony Plush, Morgan's speedy command of the left field tureen must have me spoiled cuz o'l boy Lee has no spark in his engine. He runs after balls like I run period - not that fast! Thank-goodness for Houston's sake Lee is a power threat at the plate (when he's not striking out that is) because his defense is worse than my driving at times! And ladies and gentlman, does he or does he not have the lower body make up like a a woman? Really, check Lee out from waist down - he's got the lady curve goin' on! And I would know cuz I'm rather wide myself.





And lastly, there's my 3rd favorite first basemen, Lance Berkmen. You may wonder I called him fat elvis in the opening paragraph. Well. . . it seems his mom feels he looked like elvis w/ those dashing side-burns he was sportn' a while back. Lance told a reporter in an interview that mamma Berkmen thought he looked like elvis, ya know the "fat one" he commented. So, when "My Favorite LaRoche" girls were baseball heaven other wise known as spring training, we were privilaged to take in an a few Astros games and got to experience the "Berkmen Phenomn" first hand. And boy those little redneck ladies love them some LanceBerkmen! Notice his approach at the plate. Hand delivery is so important when you're entering the batter's box!






Well, we will see those darn stros again I say. Hopefully we can improve our won/loss record against them. I so don't undertand why we can't beat them. C'mon, we slam their ace, Roy Oswalt, but can't get a hit off of a 8.05 era pitcher. And what about yesterday? A pulled groin in the middle of the 2nd forces their starter out and he can't take advantage of the rooten bullpen that the Astros have! To be fair to our boys, the stros 2, 3, 4 hitters were sold and not having Jack at Short Stop didn't help. I love Ramon but his range isn't even on the same plant as Wilson's. Two of those infield bloopers wouldn't haven't got away from Jack nor would they have scored the winning runs. But we fight again today. On to Hotlanta and a renion w/ the center fielder of last wk; Nate M.

Go getm' Zack!