Why Is Omar Infante Taking So Much Criticism?
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 1:25 PM EDT
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PrintAlright, this isn't a long post nor a heavily researched post, but I feel it needs to be said.
Why in the world is Omar Infante receiving so much criticism for his All Star Game selection? It's not like he forced Charlie Manuel to be on the team. Manuel made the selection because of Infante's versatility -- after all, not many players can play 7 positions -- and his great ABs coming off the bench. There's probably a good, if not great chance Omar doesn't even play in the game. Though he's been constantly bashed by the media and even a few members of Talking Chop.
Stop it.
This isn't on Omar Infante. This is totally on Charlie Manuel. Infante didn't hold a gun to Manuel's head and said, "Put me on the team or I shoot." I've never once heard a bad thing about Omar, and he appears to be a phenomenal teammate.
Here's what happened yesterday:
"I got a call from Frank Wren, and the first thought I had was I got traded," Infante said through his interpreter, "I was kind of nervous and choked up. By the time Frank told me I was going to the All-Star Game, I thought he was joking around. It took, like, five minutes for me to realize I'm going to the All Star Game."
Oh, and his reaction after the news?
"I was jumping around with my wife and kid. I was so happy. I was shocked. I couldn't believe it."
That's priceless. How could you not root for a guy like that?
Sure, there were better candidates to represent the National League in the All-Star Game. Joey Votto, Jayson Werth, Billy Wagner, and others have had much better seasons. Though all that's been said since noon yesterday was how much of a joke it was that Omar was a 2010 All-Star.
But who's at fault for that? It sure as hell isn't Omar Infante's fault.
Yet somehow, the media and fans across the country are bashing Infante like he did something totally wrong.
That's just stupid, to be perfectly honest.
Congratulations, Omar. You'll never once hear me criticize you for your selection to the Mid-Summer Classic. And I really hope no other Braves fans do either.
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Who has been bashing Omar?
Ive been saying since the beginning that he shouldnt be on the team. How in the world is that bashing Omar? Its not bashing Omar — its simply fact.
If anything its bashing Manuel. I havent seen one post on this site or anywhere else that says Omar is at fault. No one is annoyed with Omar. Its all on Manuel. And it doesnt change the fact that he shouldnt be on the team.
"If I have asthma, they won't let me scuba. And if I can’t scuba, then what’s this all been about?? What am I working toward??"
"You look like you should be married to one of the San Diego Padres."
by Doghnut on Jul 5, 2010 1:39 PM EDT reply actions 4 recs
Go read any non-Braves blog. Maybe they’re not bashing Omar directly, but it’s almost like they call him a joke for making the team.
Trust me, I wouldn’t write the post if there weren’t a ton of people hating on Omar.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 1:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Maybe they are at other sites
But I havent seen anything here (not that ive read every word posted here).
Why is it so wrong to say he shouldnt be on the team? People are acting like we’ve murdered kittens when we say that.
And yet, I have yet to see ONE defense of Omar being on the team. The only thing Ive seen is versatility which is a joke — the team already has a crapton of versatility. Simply put he shouldnt be there.
With that said, Im happy for him as a Braves fan, even if it is undeserved.
"If I have asthma, they won't let me scuba. And if I can’t scuba, then what’s this all been about?? What am I working toward??"
"You look like you should be married to one of the San Diego Padres."
Apparently, there's a new rule that ends up promoting versatility for one AS bench player
Infante made the team largely because of a new re-entry rule that all but requires each manager to select one player versatile enough to man several positions.
The rule, part of a series of changes mandated by the special committee for on-field matters, states that, "one additional position player . . . will be designated by each All-Star manager as eligible to return to the game in the event that the last position player at any position is injured."
Infante, who has played all three outfield positions and every infield position but first, will be that player for the NL.
The Orioles’ Ty Wigginton, who has played every infield position and the outfield corners, will fill the same role for the AL.
Prone to asking "Who Dat Say Dey Gonna Beat Dem Saints!?", waving my arm in a tomahawk fashion and doing the War Chant, yelling "Tiger Bait" at passersby, and throwing up the O.
by AllSaintsDay on Jul 5, 2010 1:56 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Isn’t Prado someone who can play a lot of positions, though? Just play Hanley and Reyes for a larger stretch of the game and name Infante if Reyes can’t go.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
He could probably play 2B, 3B, 1B and LF.
Omar can play CF and SS, which very few players can play. That’s why I think he made the team.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:00 PM EDT up reply actions
If so,
that’s a lousy reason. There are what, 36 players on each team? They definitely do not need a utility guy.
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:14 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m sure Charlie Manuel will change his mind on the decision once he checks out TC this afternoon.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Charlie Manuel
would be a heck of a lot better manager if he followed the advice of the TC faithful.
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s why he’s been to the World Series the last 2 years, right?
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:18 PM EDT up reply actions
They've succeeded
in spite of him, not because of him. Their roster is just stacked. With that roster, even Bob Brenly could have made the WS.
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:19 PM EDT up reply actions
FWIW
Brenly made it there with less.
"Jason Heyward was a Greek philosopher reincarnated as a baseball player." - Don Sutton
Indeed.
My point exactly.
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:23 PM EDT up reply actions
In spite of him? that's very harsh. You mean Charlie hasn't done a thing right?
He’s that horrible that he doesn’t get any credit? Easy for you to say.
They do if they're going to keep trying to get all 36 in the game.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 5:07 PM EDT up reply actions
But he's a starter.
I think this is an emergency player who will not play unless absolutely required.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 5:06 PM EDT up reply actions
And live ive said elsewhere
Prado can fill that role not to mention the fact that there are 2 or 3 people for every position already.
"If I have asthma, they won't let me scuba. And if I can’t scuba, then what’s this all been about?? What am I working toward??"
"You look like you should be married to one of the San Diego Padres."
...who will all be used by the 7th inning.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 5:07 PM EDT up reply actions
...and who can come back into the game due to the new rule
"If I have asthma, they won't let me scuba. And if I can’t scuba, then what’s this all been about?? What am I working toward??"
"You look like you should be married to one of the San Diego Padres."
If you have yet to see one defense of omar being on the team, then you haven’t been reading the comments on this blog.
Every year, there is just as big a controversy of a few deserving players not playing in the game as there is about deserving players not making the team. Omar, being able to play any position in the field, allows manual to use the entire rest of his bench whenever he chooses, not worrying about holding a few guys back to back up the various positions. Omar allows manual to use 35 of the 36 guys on the roster and leave omar as the last man standing on the bench. If he takes votto, a fourth first baseman, he has to hold back 2 to 3 guys to cover the whole infield and the outfield. Sure, with omar he doesn’t have that potent final bat off the bench, but he keeps 2 or 3 potent bats from staying on the bench.
See other comments. It ain’t Votto vs. Infante. It’s Zimmerman vs. Infante. Like the guy at the bottom of the thread said, the Infante debate is starting to hide the political decision in his clubhouse to keep Howard over Votto.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
I absolutely agree that howard doesn’t deserve to be there over votto, but what do you expect from manual. After all the snub talk, votto will make the team anyway. 4 first basemen is ridiculous by the way considering they have the least position flexibility of anyone.
As for capps, the save stat isn’t quite as stupid as win-loss record. A save is very dependent on the pitcher’s performance. If he gets the job done, then the game is over and no one cares how he did it. It’s a fine stat for assessing a closer and the fact that capps leads the league in saves or whatever means that he kind of does deserve to go to the all-star game.
zimmerman deserves to go over infante. I’ll agree. Other than longoria, zimmerman is probably the best young 3rd baseman in baseball. That said, as a manager, I’d rather be able to use 35 of my 36 guys than take all completely position inflexible guys and have to keep 2 infielders and an outfielder on the bench in case of injury.
It’s in an AL park, though, so you could see the extra 1B as DH material or PH material for later on in the game. NL Park the extra 1B would make no sense. AL park it’s okay. I think of the all-star game as an opportunity to showcase stars and market the game. But if you’re in the “This Time It Counts” lobby, then you could say you need another lefty out of the pen over Votto.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
I hadn’t thought of the DH thing. Good point.
I think the fact that it counts towards home field advantage is really stupid. I’d say it’s the dumbest thing selig has ever done, but he’s done a lot of stupid things and is one of the main reasons that baseball is not quite keeping pace with football or basketball when it comes to winning over the hearts of american fans.
That said, you have to play with the hand you’re dealt. The braves have a shot at the world series, and home field advantage matters, so I want this team to win, whether infante hits a walkoff homer or rides the pine alone all the way through the bottom of the 9th. Because of that, I’m voting for wagner. I fully expect votto to win, but two wrongs don’t make a right and wagner is more valuable to this team than joey votto at this point.
My own personal opinion is that these teams should be picked by someone informed, someone that knows how to construct a roster. Maybe pick the best GM from each league and let them pick the teams. Maybe the GMs of the world series teams. They put together rosters good enough to reach the world series, they should be able to do a good job of one game. Hell, you could even make a prime time special out of them explaining their picks. Whatever. It should not be a popularity contest. I don’t care what other fans want to see. I want to see the best team possible out there. That’s the entire premise of the all-star game.
I’m as anti the Omar Infante selection as anyone out there given that I don’t think casual fans will want to see him. Mostly this makes Charlie Manuel look like an idiot. You hope the Phillies never win the NL Pennant again in our lifetimes so that the all-star roster will never be left up to Charlie Manuel’s brilliance again. Of course, the only thing worse from the NL’s perspective would be for the Mets to win the pennant and for Jerry Manuel to pick the roster. I shudder at the the thought. Be interesting to see what happens if the Braves win the pennant and Bobby retires. If that happens, you hope that Bobby Cox would be given a ceremonial opportunity to manage the NL roster and show far greater wisdom than Manuel.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
Confused by what you’re responding to here. Screw who?
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
"Casual fans"
However, Prado’s been hyped for more than a month now (in addition to his spot as NL batting leader for the longest time), so even casual fans know his name.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 5:27 PM EDT up reply actions
Gotcha.
Personally, I look at the all-star game as a way to attract more casual fans with some of your most exciting and most talented players. My argue is pretty simple. The casual fan comment is pretty simple for me. In the Atlanta market, folks were going to watch the game anyway. In the DC market, where baseball is struggling to gain a foothold in relation to the Redskins, Capitals, and Wizards (John Wall pushed the Nats off the pages some), Strasburg and Zimmerman are the face of the franchise, not former Bucco Matt Capps. Prado has certainly gained more hype, and I hope he can stay healthy and start now that Utley’s hurt.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
Your piece would be stronger if you provided examples of other blogs bashing Infante (the person)
As opposed to Infante (the terrible ASG selection by Charlie Manuel). I haven’t seen much of the former.
by James Kannengieser on Jul 5, 2010 3:26 PM EDT up reply actions
It is sort of a joke.
Being a good player isn’t enough to really earn an AS spot. Now that the new rule is out, it makes more sense, but you’d be hard pressed to find a guy with worse overall (not slash) numbers who’s made an AS team in recent years that was the fifth pick from his team.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 5:05 PM EDT up reply actions
Thrashy Thrashy
Omar has nothing to be ashamed of. He should be all kinds of excited and happy about it. He just shouldn’t have been picked to be on the team. That’s all. Nevertheless, I hope he hits a ten-run HR.
by Thrashy Thrashy on Jul 5, 2010 1:42 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Only Jason Heyward can hit ten-run HRs.
"Never doubt Derek Lowe's ability to win despite himself."
by EricGreggWasPaidOff on Jul 5, 2010 1:44 PM EDT up reply actions
another thing
if the manager of the two time reigning NL champs thinks that Omar is and All Star, he deserves to be. casual fans cant look at some stats and say that they know more about the best players in the league than a manager who has coached against Omar. It might be different if Bobby Cox was choosing the team, but a rival NL East manager thinks that Omar should be an all star.
Baseball is like church. Many attend; few understand. - Leo Durocher
And Omar’s own manager doesn’t even think he should be a starter…
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:02 PM EDT up reply actions
A link to back up this statement would be appreciated.
I can’t imagine Bobby Cox making this statement about Omar.
Washington Tribune, June 29 2010 – "The stonecutters carving Stephen Strasburg’s name onto the Washington Monument have been directed to await further instructions."
Check the lineup when all of our starters are healthy.
That’s what justin’s referring to.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 6:18 PM EDT up reply actions
Thanks
It sounded as if Bobby didn’t think Omar should have been chosen to play in the AS game, as that was the subject of the comment he replied to.
Washington Tribune, June 29 2010 – "The stonecutters carving Stephen Strasburg’s name onto the Washington Monument have been directed to await further instructions."
Uhh...
Manuel also thinks Howard should be an All Star.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 5:08 PM EDT up reply actions
Good post.
Thanks for taking the time to write what a lot of us were thinking.
"Never doubt Derek Lowe's ability to win despite himself."
by EricGreggWasPaidOff on Jul 5, 2010 1:45 PM EDT reply actions
+ a million
I don’t understand how a true Braves fan can so openly oppose Omar being selected. For years we complained about not having enough Braves on the team, then when we finally do, we complain about the choices. Why can’t everyone just be happy for our organization.
After all the opposition, we will never have to worry about having many Braves on any future teams.
Washington Tribune, June 29 2010 – "The stonecutters carving Stephen Strasburg’s name onto the Washington Monument have been directed to await further instructions."
Great Post--I agree.
Infante should be on the team. He’s worked a long time and deserves recognition. When he makes it barely anybody believes he deserves it. Having the attitude “He didn’t deserve it but I wish him good” is stupid. Either get behind him or not. This man made it , and we ought to be supporting him all out.
Jason Heyward is the reason that Chuck Norris parks his car in a garage.
He didn’t deserve it, and I challenge you to show me how he did. Saying “he worked hard” is bs. Every MLB player has worked hard to get where they are at.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:03 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
he played well enough that the NL manager thought he should be on it
Baseball is like church. Many attend; few understand. - Leo Durocher
Good point
Charlie Manuel is infallible.
"If I have asthma, they won't let me scuba. And if I can’t scuba, then what’s this all been about?? What am I working toward??"
"You look like you should be married to one of the San Diego Padres."
by Doghnut on Jul 5, 2010 2:08 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Which is exactly the thing we are saying is stupid.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:12 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Dude isn’t completely stupid. The devil’s argument is that I think Infante hurt the Phillies big time during their series earlier in the year and Manuel thought, “Gee, I wish I had that kind of gamer on my team!” He’s entitled to his opinion. I disagree with it, and I think Manuel’s an idiot, but he’s entitled to his opinion.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
KK should be an All Star too. He shut the Phillies down earlier.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:39 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, but he only plays one position. If he had won a game and closed he would have been on the team hands down. Since he’s so into versatility, he should pick Pelf because he’s a winnah, and he, like, saved a 20 inning game. C’mon. You can’t get more all-star than that. ;-)
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
He is a RP now, so I guess he technically has the flexibility that is oh so important in one game.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 6, 2010 5:32 AM EDT up reply actions
Charlie Manuel isn’t a complete idiot. He recognized Infante’s versatility and clutch hitting. In my opinion it wasn’t the best choice, but a good one. There may have been more deserving players based on stats etc. But Infante’s all-around performances may appeal more than those who are best in one area.
Jason Heyward is the reason that Chuck Norris parks his car in a garage.
Joey Votto’s clutch hitting >>>>>>>>> Infante’s.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:12 PM EDT up reply actions
Because Manuel wanted him over the others...
we can debate numbers and all the rest, but ultimately he makes the call, and if you convince him to select you, you “deserve” it.
That doesn’t mean he “deserved” it…it just means that he got it.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:40 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
back in college
There was one class where I had a final paper to turn in, but I got my weeks mixed up, and it was due a full week earlier than I’d thought. I didn’t get it turned in. However, our professor had had a recent cataract surgery, his eyes were bothering him, and it turns out he didn’t grade the final papers because he was behind on all of his assignment grading.
I got an A in the class. Did I deserve it just because I got it?
I’m happy for Omar Infante, but to say he’s a deserving All-Star over better players having better seasons is bollocks.
by Bronn on Jul 5, 2010 2:44 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
+1
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:45 PM EDT up reply actions
So, theoretically, it is impossible to ever be undeserving of something that happens – good or bad.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:50 PM EDT up reply actions
Seriously, that's your take?
Anyone deserves something because someone else believes they deserve it? That’s a ridiculous moral relativist argument.
I think the word "deserve" in and of itself leads to...
a moral relativist argument. It’s almost purely subjective by definition.
I really wanted to make a Nazi reference here, but I'll refrain.
You’re the person making this subjective. Mr. S. When you want to know who deserves certain accolades and awards, you compare them to others. There’s nothing necessarily subjective about it. The salesman who sells the most refrigerators deserves a bonus. The student with the highest scores deserves the highest grade.
In baseball, we conveniently have a myriad (word of the day) of numbers to use for comparison. Ones that we like include OBP, SLG%, wOBA, WAR, and some others. You can easily make a comparison of those to see who is more valuable, who is more deserving of their accolades. In this case, Omar Infante is less deserving than almost any candidate you can find who plays his position. Juan Uribe, for example, is a former utility player who plays every position, hits better than Infante, and plays good defense. He’s more deserving. Omar was listed as a 3B, but he’s less deserving than: Ryan Zimmerman, Mark Reynolds, Chase Headley, David Freese, Chipper Jones, Casey Blake, Casey McGeehee, Pablo Sandoval, Felipe Lopez….etc.
And that comparison is subjective bronn,...
that’s what I’m saying. My opinion of who “deserves” what is probably different from who "deserves what. What if that salesman who sold the most refrigerators has a cousin in the restaurant supply business and only beat a hard working fellow salesman by 1 fridge? What if that student’s grade was a result of an easier outside class load, or on busy work assignments with another showing a much higher aptitude for the subject matter?
It can go in baseball too. Is the P most deserving of the Cy Young the guy who leads in wins, or era, or strikeouts, or fip? The MVP decided by average or rbi or ops or war?
To repeat the point, “deserve” is subjective to the person and their opinions on the subject. It is impossible to remove subjectivity from a discussion on who “deserves” what. Yes, you can compare to determine who is more deserving, but then what is used in that comparison can alter the outcome, so subjectivity is inherent in the word.
Just saying,
I trust Charlie Manuel’s decision making more than yours, Justin. And I think that the vast majority of people in baseball would agree.
I hate the Phillies so much...
No they don’t – otherwise, they wouldn’t all be bashing the decision…
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 6, 2010 5:33 AM EDT up reply actions
I don’t think too many Braves fans are going to wish him ill because of this. The fact of the matter is he got a spot because the rules have changed. Congrats Omar. Enjoy your time in Anaheim!
"Jason Heyward was a Greek philosopher reincarnated as a baseball player." - Don Sutton
They are?
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 5:13 PM EDT up reply actions
I have never dised anyone in my life.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 6, 2010 5:33 AM EDT up reply actions
Rainbow Llamasaurus approves of Omahhhhh's selection!
by musicman on Jul 5, 2010 1:50 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Best comment on this whole thread
"Tony Gwynn made sacrifices. Cal Ripken made sacrifices. I'm not sure Derek Jeter made sacrifices given the ungodly deep pockets the Yankees have." - Chipper Jones
by MBL1 on Jul 5, 2010 4:48 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
the case for Omar
With this pick Charlie Manuel showed he cares about winning the game. Once he has tried to give everyone playing time, what if the game is tied, goes into extra innings, and and injury leaves him short a position player? Omar can play just about everywhere. His glove at short surprised me during the long stretch when he filled in so ably for Yunel. Second is his best position, and he can also do third well, and he wasn’t too bad in left this year. He’s a good fastball hitter, important considering the smoke being thrown around baseball this year.
Basketball recognizes the importance of the 6th man with an award. A little recognition for the outstanding utility man in baseball is welcome and overdue.
Exactly.
Charlie Manuel is redefining the game. It’s a real game now, not just the Baseball Gala for Statistical Excellence!
[only built for cuban linx]
by Mighty Healthy on Jul 5, 2010 2:04 PM EDT up reply actions
By picking a player that more than likely will not get in the game?
If the game is tied in the 9th inning, who do you want up to bat – Omar Infante (a bench/role player) or Joey Votto (the league leader in OPS)?
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:05 PM EDT up reply actions
Anyone who prefers Infante to Votto in that spot is certifiable.
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:13 PM EDT up reply actions
But Infante can play IF and OF!
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:18 PM EDT up reply actions
I think many people are looking at this the wrong way
1. This all-star game isn’t like the NFL Pro Bowl, MLS, or NBA All-Star game. All of those games don’t mean anything, ours does. This is for home field advantage in the World Series, so while Joey Votto SHOULD have made the team. The media should be more upset at Matt Holiday, or Reyes getting voted in all of the time.
2. The Braves are in 1st place. Remember, Chipper Jones, Nate McLouth, and Yunel Escobar has missed a handful of games. What is the common denominator there: Omar Infante. It wouldn’t be a stretch to believe that without Omar, we would have had a whole lot of Brandon Hicks, Gregor Blanco (i like Whitey), and Melky Cabrera.. and been still in the cellar.
3. “You play to win.. the game!”.. Give all of those butthurt ball players a Sliver Slugger award at the end of the year and STFU.
Go Braves! Peace!
[only built for cuban linx]
I have not seen one person bash Omar around here. Please defend that statement with some evidence.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:03 PM EDT reply actions
Where in that post does he say people around here are bashing him? It says the media and fans of all teams are.
"Chase Utley can't polish Martin's shoes right now" Joe Simpson
by sleezer1788 on Jul 5, 2010 2:10 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Though he’s been constantly bashed by the media and even a few members of Talking Chop.
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:11 PM EDT up reply actions
Seriously dude.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:13 PM EDT up reply actions
for the 19th time
Maybe bash wasn’t the right word.
If i change it, will you guys quit bitching about it?
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:15 PM EDT up reply actions
If you change it,
then what is the point of this post?
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Nothing wrong with the word bash. It’s true.
Jason Heyward is the reason that Chuck Norris parks his car in a garage.
Show me one instance of "bashing"
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:19 PM EDT up reply actions
Vehement opposition of his All-Star selection.
Jason Heyward is the reason that Chuck Norris parks his car in a garage.
That is not bashing of Omar.
That is bashing of his selection. If you can’t see the distinction, I’m sorry.
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Vehement opposition is bashing him. Simple disagreement isn’t.
Jason Heyward is the reason that Chuck Norris parks his car in a garage.
Hahahaha
riiiiiiiiiiiight.
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:26 PM EDT up reply actions
Dude, don’t you know that anything other than blind homerism is a form of bashing?
I thought KJ’s power would be more important than Prado’s high average – that made me a Prado hater.
I thought Glaus was a better option for 1B than Hinske. That made me a Hinske hater.
I thought KK should be in the rotation over Medlen. That made me a Medlen hater.
I think literally 40 other players deserved to be on the AS team instead of Omar, and now, I am an Omar basher.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:23 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
No, he wasn't.
He simply pointed out that KJ was, in his opinion, a better option at 2B. And that argument is still perfectly valid.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 5:27 PM EDT up reply actions
Sorry...
But I’d take a better defender who’s getting on base at almost exactly the same rate and who has the power and run-producing ability to hit in the middle of the lineup.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 5:56 PM EDT up reply actions
KJ wasn't a great fielder,...
so better is debatable. Prado has done pretty well with the glove this year. OBP and SLG are similar, fangraphs WAR has Prado at 3, KJ at 2.3. Plus one has been more consistent.
There’s a reason one is starting for the NL in Anaheim, and the other is considered a possible trade piece despite being possibly under relatively cheap team control next year.
He plays on a far superior team that's going to contend for the pennant?
And Prado’s slugging is tied up in his AVG. KJ’s ISO is 30%+ better.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 6:19 PM EDT up reply actions
And KJ's slugging is tied up in a huge April...
his numbers, especially power, has been much lower since. Let’s see how the two compare at the end of the year.
I am not the one who wrote a bitching front-pager.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:18 PM EDT up reply actions
Bitching? I’m supporting a player on my favorite team.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:19 PM EDT up reply actions
By bitching at the other fans…
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions
whatever
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:21 PM EDT up reply actions
sick comeback.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:23 PM EDT up reply actions
Justin, I respect your opinion and appreciate what you do for our country, but it’s pointless arguing with you over the internet.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:27 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s what I am trying to convey to you. It is pointless for you to try to argue this one, because you have nothing to support the argument with.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:29 PM EDT up reply actions
The only argument I ever made was that we, as Braves fans, should be happy for Omar Infante, since no one else will be.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions
And no one has ever disagreed with that
"If I have asthma, they won't let me scuba. And if I can’t scuba, then what’s this all been about?? What am I working toward??"
"You look like you should be married to one of the San Diego Padres."
We are. Some of us don’t think he deserves it though.
And let’s be honest here, the Braves have a legit shot at the WS this year. If this stupid exhibition game determines home field advantage (where the Braves are AWESOME this year), i want the best damned players on that team. Omar is not in that group.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
+1
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions
I know he probably won’t even play, but i can see it now:
“Omar Infante hits walkoff in 14th inning of Mid-Summer Classic. National League wins home field advantage.”
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:35 PM EDT up reply actions
Or...
Omar Infante goes in at CF in the 11th inning, plays terrible defense, and strikes out twice in a 14-inning game.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 5:12 PM EDT up reply actions
The one caveat to all this, is assuming the game only goes 9, the likeliest scenario involves only 2 1B playing in the game. Pujols who starts, and then……..
Do you honestly expect Votto would end up as anything OTHER than a come-from-behind PH? I’m not trying to justify Manuel’s decision here, I’m merely pointing out that even were he to take Votto over Infante, there’s no sure thing that Votto would even see the field either.
"Jason Heyward was a Greek philosopher reincarnated as a baseball player." - Don Sutton
Those are two separate issues. It’s probably Zimmerman vs. Infante for roster makeup and Votto vs. Howard for a 1B slot of Votto vs. Gonzalez for a 1B slot. Now we have Wagner vs. Votto for a Final Vote slot.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
Watch Heath freakin’ Bell win the Vote-In spot lol.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:41 PM EDT up reply actions
For the purposes of this discussion, they’re really not. The point is yay Omar! boo Charlie! yay Votto!
Furthermore, unless it’s been released somewhere I haven’t seen, we don’t necessarily know for sure who the first person left off really was. Could have been Zimmerman, could have been Votto.
"Jason Heyward was a Greek philosopher reincarnated as a baseball player." - Don Sutton
If you want to make the "roster construction" argument
Someone like Juan Uribe, who is a better hitter with better numbers this year, and has also played all over the field, would have been a better choice.
I think Votto would PH whether we were behind or up.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:40 PM EDT up reply actions
100% Agreed.
Arguing over the internet is one of the lame results of technology. I’m gonna quit this thread before I type myself into a frenzy as a few others have already done.
Jason Heyward is the reason that Chuck Norris parks his car in a garage.
by bitching.
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions
whatever
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:21 PM EDT up reply actions
Maybe "bash" wasn't the right word
but all I read was how un-deserving Omar was.
Did Joey Votto deserve it more than Omar? Yes.
Did Troy Glaus deserve it more? Yes.
Did Jayson Werth deserve it more? Yes.
Who cares. Brian McCann deserved to be the starting catcher the last 4 years. Was he? No.
Snubs are part of the game. Get over it and get over your stats. Everyone fucking knows Omar shouldn’t be at the game, but he is. Just be happy for him and let it be.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:14 PM EDT up reply actions
There is a difference in someone getting snubbed and someone not deserving to be there at all.
Let Omar deserve a starting spot, then we can talk about the AS game.
If anyone needs to get over this it is you. Nobody else is making fanposts and main page posts about this.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:16 PM EDT up reply actions
It took me a whole 10 minutes to write it. I do what I can.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions
Exactly. We all complain when one of our guys doesn’t make it when someone less deserving does but then we still complain when one of our guys makes it when he shouldn’t. How can we expect the all-star game to be perfect? There are too many rules that will prevent it from ever being that way, such as the rep from every team and fan voting. Even letting one manager pick the players for the remaining spots rather than basing it off of some kind of vote. The game is never going to be perfect, so why can’t we all as Braves fans just be happy for one of our guys making it.
"Chase Utley can't polish Martin's shoes right now" Joe Simpson
by sleezer1788 on Jul 5, 2010 2:20 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
This
holy cow.
I never thought I’d get this worked up over a Braves player making an All Star team.
Can’t we all just be happy for Omar?
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:21 PM EDT up reply actions
I am happy for Omar...
but if you were a Reds fan, wouldn’t you be royally pissed that your guy (Votto) isn’t on the team, but some utility guy is?
Try to see this from a non-Braves perspective.
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:22 PM EDT up reply actions
As a Braves fan, I am kinda pissed that Omar made it and Wagner and Glaus did not.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:24 PM EDT up reply actions
That too.
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:25 PM EDT up reply actions
Yes, but what about the last 4 years when Brian McCann deserved to start and he was always passed by a non-deserving guy?
I know there’s a difference between being selected and being selected a starter, but still.
Besides, it’s not like it’s fair to compare Infante to Votto. No doubt Votto deserves to make it.
The real joke here is Ryan Howard making it over Votto and Glaus.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:25 PM EDT up reply actions
That is horrible, too.
Charlie Manuel made lots of terrible choices, don’t get me wrong. But you’re not writing posts about the other ones.
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:26 PM EDT up reply actions
What about those 4 years? How does that in any way justify Infante making the team?
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:26 PM EDT up reply actions
Look up about 10 comments
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:28 PM EDT up reply actions
Que?
It took me a whole 10 minutes to write it. I do what I can.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:30 PM EDT up reply actions
aqui
Justin, I respect your opinion and appreciate what you do for our country, but it’s pointless arguing with you over the internet.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions
I am asking a legit question. What does Brian McCann not starting when he should have been have to do with Omar not deserving to make the team?
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:34 PM EDT up reply actions
That mistakes and snubs are a part of every All Star Game?
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:35 PM EDT up reply actions
So, just because they happen means that we can’t discuss them?
I’ll remember that the next time Bill Hohn calls one of our games.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:36 PM EDT up reply actions
Not with you, no. lol.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:37 PM EDT up reply actions
A lot of this stuff with the starters about fan bases, new technology skill, and getting your team in front of a national audience by postseason success. People still think of Yadier Molina as a winner. It’s a travesty he’s on the team, but it’s a travesty that Cardinals fan are so stupid. You can’t really do much about that. Brian McCann will have a good shot at a starter’s spot next year because all indications are that the Braves will make a run at the playoffs next year. Evan Longoria would be getting dissed like Ryan Zimmerman if it wasn’t for the fact that he has helped his team wins game and make the playoffs to broaden his audience.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
There's a difference between being a third-place contender and a basement dweller.
Longo would be in regardless.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 5:18 PM EDT up reply actions
Sorry, I wasn't completely clear here.
The parallel is that if Longoria was the 3rd best third basemen in the AL, he would have a problem getting on if Tampa Bay wasn’t a winning team. In the NL, Rolen and Wright are clear locks over Zimmerman in part because they play for winning teams. Had the Nats kept playing .500 ball instead of 8-19 ball through June, taken advantage of Strasburg starts with more wins, and not had Zimmerman crater with the team he’d have a strong case.
Surprisingly, though, I hear that early returns are Votto, Zimmerman, Wagner for the Final Vote early voting. Probably shouldn’t mention that here given my Votto/Zim preferences. ;-)
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
Rolen and Wright are clear locks over Zimmerman because they play in front of a larger fan base. You’ve said yourself the Nats are trying to carve a niche in the DC/northern Virginia sports market, while the former both play for large and established markets.
Put Wright in Washington and Zimmerman in New York or St. Louis, and you can flip that vote. I guaranfuckingtee it.
"Jason Heyward was a Greek philosopher reincarnated as a baseball player." - Don Sutton
Infante isn't in the game over those three because idiotic hometown fans voted him in.
He’s there because the manager (who’s supposed to have the best interest of the team and the league at heart) picked him.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 5:15 PM EDT up reply actions
I haven't seen anyone bashing Infante.
Everyone is bashing Charlie Manuel. Every article I have read has made clear that Infante is a nice little player, but that there’s no way he belongs on an all-star team. That’s not a knock—lots of good players aren’t all-star caliber. It happens to be true, though.
For instance, here’s a quote from Jeff Passan’s article about the all-star selections:
Here’s the thing: Omar Infante is a nice player, ideal for a club like Atlanta with an injury-prone infield. Every team needs someone like him.
Except the All-Star Team.
That’s exactly how I feel about it. I think a lot of people here on TC have been taking the whole thing too personally. Criticizing Omar’s selection is not a criticism of Omar as a player or a person. He’s awesome and we all love him, but he’s not a worthy all-star.
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
We must protect this house. Prado for MVP, Hudson for Cy Young, Cox for Manager of the year, Heyward for ROY, and Infante for the All-star game.
Hell, I’m pissed that Brooks Conrad isn’t in the HR derby!
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:14 PM EDT up reply actions
Jo-Jo for Rolaids Relief Man
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:16 PM EDT up reply actions
This won wins the cake.
"Jason Heyward was a Greek philosopher reincarnated as a baseball player." - Don Sutton
Wow. “won”? Really? Have you gone completely flipping senile?
"Jason Heyward was a Greek philosopher reincarnated as a baseball player." - Don Sutton
lolz!
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:19 PM EDT up reply actions
omar doesn’t deserve the hate, but the pick really is absurd… i do think most sensible people are directing their exasperation at manuel.
espn today did something silly — they posted infante’s counting stats and corresponding NL rank — it’s like… yeah, the whole problem is that he’s a bench player, of course his RBI total is a bit on the wee side next to pujols’.
RBI is a stupid judge of a player anyway
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:12 PM EDT up reply actions
word.
but my point is that they could have just posted his PAs and stated that he was a utility player without a true defensive position, end of discussion. i thought it was absurd that they even attempted to compare apples to apples.
Well, it is.
But it is also absurd that Manuel picked Infante.
You shouldn’t fight absurdity with absurdity, though, ESPN.
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions
haha... well, ok.
i’ve already stated my belief that the pick was absurd. the espn anecdote was just a random side-note.
ESPN shames itself with baseball coverage. I don’t take anything they say really seriously anymore. It will be a lot more revealing to see what MLB network says.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
totally blows that i don’t get the MLB network. espn basically has a sports-talk monopoly with my basic cable package; i watch espn often because i love sports (and i enjoy watching others construct arguments, even if the conclusions rarely follow!), but they haven’t really earned my attention… it’s just by default i guess. the very moment a better alternative finds its way on my tv lineup, i’m there.
Then they recycle the same content on their sports talk radio. It’s one of the reasons that I devote as much time as I do to SBNation, silence and participating in these dicussions while at work beats having Colin Cowherd kill my brain cells.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
Don't mind listening to Cowherd on football topics
But when he starts talking baseball I’ve got to turn him off before my head explodes.
A baseball diamond is, most simply, the intersecting of four 90-foot baselines, and, most powerfully, the intersecting of seemingly random lives.
Infante
I’ve seen the complaints about Infante’s selection, but just as stated, he did NOT force anyone to be chosen.
Most of the same clowns who object to Infante’s selection are the same clowns who claim Strasburg deserves to be in the All-Star game. One of the clowns is a writer for Yahoo Sports who said Infante doesn’t deserve it because he hasn’t done much to be named an All-Star, yet goes on to say Strasburg should be there. If you ask me, Infante has done more than Strasburg.
Get over it. The All-Star selections being made by fans in the first place is a crock because of big market teams like New York, Philly, and St. Louis with a lot more fans than Washington, Houston, Miami(Florida), and so on don’t get enough votes to get the more deserving players on the team.
If the participants in the HR Derby are based on the amount of HR’s at the break, why aren’t the participants in the AS Game decided the same exact way? Wouldn’t it only be fair?
Strasburg has been worth more to his team
in 6 starts than Infante has been all year. So he would be more deserving. Though he’s hardly alone in that, or one of the worst snubs.
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:18 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Am I
wrong in saying that an All-Star game is based on a players performance from opening day to the end of All-Star voting and not how much a player is worth to a team? Yes Strasburg means more to the Nationals than Infante probably does to the Braves, but you don’t select a player on that basis. No, Strasburg doesn’t deserve to be there this year and it’s not a snub. You can’t be snubbed if you haven’t played long enough to earn a spot.
How many people last year whined that Tommy Hanson didn’t make the All-Star game? I sure as hell didn’t.
by Vanakatherock on Jul 5, 2010 2:28 PM EDT up reply actions
So if a player comes up in May and dominates
he shouldn’t be on the all-star team? That’s just silly. I don’t think Strasburg “deserves” it, but he is one of many players who deserve it more than Infante.
If Infante had the same numbers, but they all came in the last 2 months instead of spread out over 3 months, you wouldn’t be making this argument, now would you?
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions
But
Strasburg has only played for a month. He’s pitched in 6 games and all if a sudden he’s more deserving of being in an All-Star game than a Utility Man. Again, maybe Infante wasn’t the best choice, but Strasburg would be even worse.
You take Infante out and say replace him with Joey Votto. We don’t have the whining about Votto being snubbed then. And then you go to the pitchers chosen and remove one of the more deserving players, say Josh Johnson, and replace him with Strasburg. Who would be catching all the hell then? Josh Johnson has been the ace of the Marlins staff since the beginning of the season. Stephen Strasburg is being considered the ace of the Nationals staff after 6 starts, a 2-2 record and a 2.45 ERA. Again, if you base your selections on popularity, the game is pointless. If you base your selections on a players performance, you have an All-Star game worth watching.
They should eliminate fan voting, and should designate a simple panel to go through the stats of every single player on every single team for every single position and determine who deserves to play and who stays home. Then would we not be having this conversation over why Infante shouldn’t have been chosen and Strasberg even being considered.
by Vanakatherock on Jul 5, 2010 2:40 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s not about Infante vs. Joey Votto. It’s about Joey Votto vs. the combination of Adrian Gonzalen, Albert Pujols, and Ryan Howard. Votto clearly deserves to go more than Howard but his manager isn’t going to diss him. It’s debatable about whether Votto is more or less valuable than Gonzalez given the park he plays in and the lineup that surrounds him. It’s about Infante vs. a guy like Zimmerman.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
The fact that votto is neck and neck with about 3 or 4 other NL first basemen just goes to show that it’s not a snub at all. Sure, he’s a good hitter, but you can’t have a team of all first basemen.
Votto has been better than Pujols this year
He’s not neck and neck with anyone. He’s head, shoulders, knees, and toes above Ryan Howard.
Really, we’re bashing Manuel here. Gonzalez was voted in by the players, and is completely deserving in his own right. Manuel filled out his roster with Howard and Infante rather than taking Votto and Zimmerman. If he’d done that, he could have left Capps out of the game and chosen any pitcher he wanted; Billy Wagner, or Strasburg, or Latos or any of about 90 pitchers more deserving than Capps.
It’s Manuel’s fault that Howard is on the roster despite having a down season by his own standards, and not being as good overall as other players. It’s not his fault that Gonzo is there.
Thanks for the clarification on Gonzalez. I didn’t realize that they’d voted him on. The players took Capps as well, one of their more boneheaded selections. Wagner is certainly better than Capps. Capps is off the roster, Wagner is chosen as a lefty specialist and Votto wins the Final Vote in a landslide after his “snub.” and the Votto thing is handled. Capps is off the roster, Manuel has to pick Zimmerman over Infante and the Infante thing is handled.
Matt Capps, you’ve managed to help snub two players who don’t even play your position! Truly, an epic achievement.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
Votto shouldn't need a Final Vote selection to begin with.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 6:13 PM EDT up reply actions
You really think Capps has been the 91st best pitcher in the LEAGUE?
He’s been solid for a bad team that’s in close games all the time. Zimmerman is better, yeah, but Capps is no scrub.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 6:12 PM EDT up reply actions
And if you base your pitchers' selections on W-L record, you're crazy.
You’re talking about “player performance,” but Infante hasn’t performed. Not like guys who have played every day and raked all year.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 6:11 PM EDT up reply actions
This is still a team and you have to compare Infante to other infielders or other utilitiy infielders. He’s listed as a 3B and Zimmerman is a better 3B. It’s Zimmreman or Infante or Polanco as a 3rd 3B for the game. Zimmerman is a better player, but as I’ve written elsewhere, Zimmerman doesn’t have a right to cry the blues because he got greatly outperformed by Rolen and Wright down the stretch. Ironically, Infante probably made the team largely because the players voted Matt Capps of the .1 WAR (according to baseball-ref), .748OPS against and blown June saves contributing to Nats June swoon. I don’t know a Nats fan who was predicting Capps to be the Nats only all-star before the selections came out. Players choose a more deserving reliever like Broxton who made the team anyway and Manuel has to choose Zim and we’re not even having this discussion.
Like many people have written here and elsewhere, the process sucks and all of the contradictory stuff make MLB look confused and contradictory. I really don’t think that it’s worth pitting Braves fans against Braves fans but it can raise some good debate about what the all-star game means, how you go about winning games, and what true player value actually means.
Personally, after sleeping on it, I think that it just means that Charlie Manuel believes that Omar Infante will give him a better chance to win the game. If he believes that, the game will show whether he’s right or not. As a Nats fan, I hope I have the discipline not to watch a game that cares not one iota about my franchise and find a way to attend one of the local minor league games instead to avoid temptation to help the local ratings.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
Most of this post makes sense, but the list I saw had Infante listed simply as an infielder, not at any specific position, which is obviously the case. He might play best at third, which is why you saw him listed there, but that’s clearly not why he was chosen. He was chosen as a guy who can play nearly any position.
"Chase Utley can't polish Martin's shoes right now" Joe Simpson
Basically, what I’m saying is that they would have picked an infielder instead of him and Zimmerman seems to be the most likely infielder they would have chosen. If the Nats didn’t have Capps named as an all-star, they probably would have had to put Zimmerman in this slot as the Nats lone all-star. They certainly wouldn’t have put Dunn in, and they probably wouldn’t have done all of the homework that the Willinhgam lobby (which I am a part of) would have required.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
Even if Infante is considered as a 2B...
Uggla’s got an argument there, too.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 6:14 PM EDT up reply actions
Hanson also didn't pitch anywhere NEAR as well as Strasburg has.
It’s not about time. It’s about production, and Infante’s isn’t special, relative to the rest of the league.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 6:08 PM EDT up reply actions
The Strasburg thing is a red herring as well. He didn’t deserve to go because he wasn’t neon light dominant to the same degree in most of his other starts as he was in his first start. Strasburg himself probably didn’t want him to go and his manager definitely didn’t want him to go. Had Strasburg gotten named guys like Latos and Pelfrey and Cain would have been justifiably up in arms.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
by souldrummer on Jul 5, 2010 2:46 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
How do the Padres not have a single pitcher on this team?
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions
West Coast bias…and they’re the Padres.
It’s sad, but true.
Also, how in the world has Petco not hosted an ASG yet? That should be a crime.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:49 PM EDT up reply actions
Latos has a better case to be an AS than even Tim Hudson. It’s a crying shame.
Matt Capps? Really???
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:51 PM EDT up reply actions
Well
That’s just a case of really bad roster construction, and it’s almost entirely on Charlie Manuel there. He didn’t pick Willingham, who deserves to be a starter, or Zimmerman, who it seems will be a perennial snub, so he had to pick a Washington player. He didn’t pick Strasburg for whatever reason. He had to have a Washington player, so he picked like the 12th most deserving man on their roster. Willingham would have been a much better choice, even though the roster was kind of stacked with outfielders. He could have gotten his relievers elsewhere-taking Wagner, for example. He could have left Howard out entirely.
You're right
I thought for sure he had to be manager selection to get the Nats a representative. I guess THEY’RE batshit insane.
What in the
hell are you smoking? Their numbers are near even. The biggest difference being Latos has more strikeouts than Hudson. That only being because Hudson is a ground ball pitcher, not a strike out pitcher. Hudson’s ERA is lower. Latos’ WHIP is lower. Latos has one more win than Hudson, but they have the same amount of losses.
So really?? Latos has a better case than Hudson. Might want to put that pipe down and come back to reality.
by Vanakatherock on Jul 5, 2010 2:56 PM EDT up reply actions
Look at Huddy’s walks.
Huddy has also had several bad games.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 6, 2010 5:37 AM EDT up reply actions
Mat Latos is such a badass. We were eating up in Phoenix during their Spring Training and my buddy had a Giants hat on. He was giving Mat a ton of crap, but he was cool about the whole thing and had some of the funniest comebacks i’ve ever heard. Dude ended up buying dinner for us and signed a ball for my friend.
I’m hoping for an injury, cause Latos should be there.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:56 PM EDT up reply actions
You never really hope for an injury. You kind of hope that somebody decides to skip a start because it’s too close to their turn or something. Well, maybe if the injury were to Roy Halladay…That would be karma, but I still wouldn’t want it to happen. I think.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
Matt Capps was picked by the players. Charlie Manuel and the voting can’t be blamed for that. He doesn’t deserve to go. The infernal save statistic and Washington’s lack of offense to give him fewer save situations is to blame for the players screwing that one up. Wagner or Bell both deserve to be there more than Capps. Hope that Capps appearance in the all-star game convinces some team to overpay for him a trade. With Clippard and Storen as young controllable pieces in the pen, Capps is the first guy they should sell, “LET’S GO CAPPS!” chants to connect with the Washington Capitals fan base at Nationals Park be damned.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
All-Stars should be decided by home runs alone?
Does that mean that Micah Owings is going to be a perennial AS contender?
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 6:07 PM EDT up reply actions
No
All-Stars should be chosen by their stats just as HR Derby contenders are chosen by their HR numbers. Not by the cities who have the most fans with multiple email addresses.
by Vanakatherock on Jul 5, 2010 10:10 PM EDT up reply actions
After watching the "highlights" of the hot dog eating contest
I no longer feel the need to eat…anything.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
That made me gag. It was disgusting.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Can you believe there’s actually a LEAGUE for that?
More evidence that this country has officially failed.
"Jason Heyward was a Greek philosopher reincarnated as a baseball player." - Don Sutton
haha
i wonder how many of those hot dogs i could put down in 8 minutes? I’ll go with 10. They aren’t real big.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:40 PM EDT up reply actions
Side note
In a year, no one will even remember who made this all-star game and who didn’t. But Omar will always remember being there. Votto will likely end up on the team anyway because I don’t see anyone else winning the fan vote after all the publicity his snub has gotten. So we’re all arguing about something none of us is even going to remember later instead of being happy that one of our guys, who seems deserving of having good things happen to him, will have a memory to cherish forever.
"Chase Utley can't polish Martin's shoes right now" Joe Simpson
by sleezer1788 on Jul 5, 2010 2:31 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
And that is what really matters…
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:32 PM EDT up reply actions
None of it matters, which was the point of that. Omar being there likely will not change the outcome of the game, so a year from now who is even going to care or remember he made it other than him and people close to him?
"Chase Utley can't polish Martin's shoes right now" Joe Simpson
by sleezer1788 on Jul 5, 2010 2:35 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
You can’t simply dismiss the fact that this very well COULD determine the outcome of the game. When you have your league’s best hitter not at the game and instead, opt for a super sub, that could easily have an impact on the outcome of this game.
The AL already has the super advantage of having better hitters, thanks to the idiotic DH rule. Now, Charlie Manuel has given them an even greater advantage by keeping the NL’s best hitter out of the game just in case he needs someone to play SS in the 10th inning…
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Which is why I said it’s ’’likely’’ that it won’t. I know it could, but chances are it won’t. I addressed the fact that Votto wasn’t chosen, because I would be shocked if he didn’t win the fan vote. As far as the implications of the game, I’m far more concerned about us only having one lefty on our pitching staff than Votto not being there when he will likely be voted in anyway.
"Chase Utley can't polish Martin's shoes right now" Joe Simpson
by sleezer1788 on Jul 5, 2010 2:41 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
The one lefty thing irks me too. It’s like Charlie Manuel is TRYING to put together an inferior roster.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:43 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m hoping some pitcher has to back out and Wags makes the team because I really think we need him, but I find it difficult to not vote for Votto for the last spot.
"Chase Utley can't polish Martin's shoes right now" Joe Simpson
by sleezer1788 on Jul 5, 2010 2:57 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
My god, I hope I don’t encounter you in a wrestling match of some other competition. I agree with your side of the argument, but we’re not doing much credit to that side by not being kind and considerate to those who disagree with us. This has gone from debate to like some kind of battle to the death. Yesterday, I was on the crusading mission side of things, but at this point most of the debate has been heard and people are pretty much settled in their positions. I disagree with Infante being selected and wish Zimmerman had been chosen instead. I disagree with Votto being dissed and hope the fans rectify that or that he is named as an injury replacement should Ryan Howard or Albert Pujols have an unfortunate accident (not that I’m rooting for something like that) to repay Cardinal fans for voting for Yadier Molina and Charlie Manuel for choosing Votto.
But at some point, we’ve just got to either talk nicely about stuff and sing kum-bay-yah or move on to discussing something else.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
What the heck did I say that is mean? I simply stated a fact. I am not making this personal or ad hominem in any way.
But yeah, I am competitive…
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 6, 2010 5:38 AM EDT up reply actions
Why not give all the other "good guys" a spot on the team, then?
Hey, Greg Norton! Come out of retirement! You made the all-star team!
"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson
by Jacob Peterson on Jul 5, 2010 2:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Did I say he deserved the spot because he was a good guy?
"Chase Utley can't polish Martin's shoes right now" Joe Simpson
by sleezer1788 on Jul 5, 2010 2:34 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Corky Miller, come on down!
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:34 PM EDT up reply actions
LOL...
Just saw he’s back in the bigs with the Reds.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 5:21 PM EDT up reply actions
He hit a HR a couple of games ago too!
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 6, 2010 5:39 AM EDT up reply actions
+1
You make more sense than the 100+ comments above. The game is about people not stats.
Jason Heyward is the reason that Chuck Norris parks his car in a garage.
It used to be…now it is about home field advantage in the World Series.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2010 2:35 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Homefield advantage doesn’t matter if you’re the Braves. :)
Jason Heyward is the reason that Chuck Norris parks his car in a garage.
Haha…dude, i want me some home field advantage! We might be the best team in baseball at home.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:37 PM EDT up reply actions
ahhh...came out wrong
I mean the best overall team of anybody when we’re playing at home.
"Sharks have a week dedicated to Jason Heyward."
METS: My Entire Team Sucks.
by Scott Coleman on Jul 5, 2010 2:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah….THANKS BUD SELIG!!!
"Tony Gwynn made sacrifices. Cal Ripken made sacrifices. I'm not sure Derek Jeter made sacrifices given the ungodly deep pockets the Yankees have." - Chipper Jones
by MBL1 on Jul 5, 2010 2:49 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Yep. All the haters of all the snubs and the process, which is really what’s causing all of the problems, need to unite on the no more World Series home field advanatage stuff. Just choose best record across MLB and use that as a story line across MLB. That’s what hockey does and that’s what basketball does. Seems pretty sensible to me.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
this
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 5:21 PM EDT up reply actions
Votto’s a good story too. He battled through depression last year and has come back to move forward and be a force in the NL. I wish Capps wasn’t on the team as a Nats fan, but I have to try to remember comments like that and try to focus on what the guy has done, bring more credibility to the stink that was the Nats bullpen, rather than focus on what he hasn’t, which is dominate during his appearances or be one of the top 10 closers in the league after you toss out the save statistic. He’s certainly bounced back from being dissed as the Pirates’ closer, and you applaud him for making the most of his opportunity this year.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
RABBLE RABBLE!
"Tony Gwynn made sacrifices. Cal Ripken made sacrifices. I'm not sure Derek Jeter made sacrifices given the ungodly deep pockets the Yankees have." - Chipper Jones
by MBL1 on Jul 5, 2010 2:48 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
I think I figured it out. Manuel picked Infante so we would all be talking about this pick rather than focusing on the fact that he chose Howard over the much more deserving Votto.
"Chase Utley can't polish Martin's shoes right now" Joe Simpson
by sleezer1788 on Jul 5, 2010 3:05 PM EDT reply actions 3 recs
bingo
"Tony Gwynn made sacrifices. Cal Ripken made sacrifices. I'm not sure Derek Jeter made sacrifices given the ungodly deep pockets the Yankees have." - Chipper Jones
by MBL1 on Jul 5, 2010 3:14 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Overlooked in the focus on Infante...
if they had more than just 2 catchers, McCann could be the DH and get a MUCH deserving first start in an All Star game.
I keep thinking every year McCann doesn’t get to start, that “next year he’ll make it.” Last year I sort of understood because the game was in St. Louis and Molina wasn’t horrible. But this year it’s just ridiculous. I don’t even think McCann should be starting this year, but I wouldn’t have been mad if he was because of all the years he’s had to be a backup. I just don’t get it because all over baseball he’s pretty much regarded as the 2nd best hitting catcher in the league, and the best hitting catcher in the NL. Those are the kinds of guys who usually get voted for by the fans, but for some reason he doesn’t.
"Chase Utley can't polish Martin's shoes right now" Joe Simpson
Let him get mad and show the world in the World Series and playoffs. Molina benefits because people remember seeing him in the playoffs, Cardinal fans vote more than Braves fans (which raises the issue of how many people go to Braves fans and how hard the in-game get out the vote stuff is), and he’s on TV more because of Pujols.
On a desperate search for Sunshine at Nats Park.
But Mac just doesn't play a flashy game.
He doesn’t make sixteen pickoff attempts at first a game. He doesn’t throw out 150% of runners trying to steal. And he doesn’t put up hitting numbers that threaten league leads like Pudge and Piazza once did. He just plays solid ball and puts up great numbers for a catcher.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 5:23 PM EDT up reply actions
Proud to be a Homar (Omar homer)
“Every article I have read has made clear that Infante is a nice “little” player"
That sounds kinda bashy.
A baseball diamond is, most simply, the intersecting of four 90-foot baselines, and, most powerfully, the intersecting of seemingly random lives.
I think this is Great!!
This guy goes out everyday… plays ball hard and comes through almost everytime this team has called on him since he came here!! But this is how life is, guys! Everyone thinks that things should be fair and blah blah blah! Also, no matter what there are going to be people that will B*tch about anything! Let them cry now, but when he comes up big in the game he will be a good send! Congrats, Omar- we know you deserve it and will play your heart out!!
by UpstateNyBravesFan on Jul 5, 2010 3:40 PM EDT reply actions
exactly
A guy who understands & never complains about his role. Who runs out every infield grounder he hits & runs down every fly ball hit his way. A guy who, even though he’s on a multigame hit streak, quitely takes his spot on the bench when the injured starter returns to reclaim his roster spot. He’s not the mouthy prima donna who calls out his manager in public interviews or smashes Gatorade machines & takes on his fellow players in the dugout for all the camers to see. Nah, Omar’s not that guy. He’s not an all-star. His stats says he isn’t.
A baseball diamond is, most simply, the intersecting of four 90-foot baselines, and, most powerfully, the intersecting of seemingly random lives.
Gregor Blanco and Brooks Conrad do exactly the same things.
Did they get snubbed worse than Votto?
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 5:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Fine.
So just Conrad for AS in your book. Got it.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2010 6:17 PM EDT up reply actions
works for me
Conrad rubs dirt in his hands, doesn’t wear batting gloves, & can catch grounders in his shirt. Now that’s an all-star.
A baseball diamond is, most simply, the intersecting of four 90-foot baselines, and, most powerfully, the intersecting of seemingly random lives.
I could be wrong,
but I do believe out of Blanco, Conrad and Infante, that Infante is the only one who can man just about every position. Conrad is generally INF and Blanco is usually 2nd base and SS, and some CF.
by Vanakatherock on Jul 5, 2010 10:13 PM EDT up reply actions
Blanco? 2B and SS? i’ve never seen him play those.
"Tony Gwynn made sacrifices. Cal Ripken made sacrifices. I'm not sure Derek Jeter made sacrifices given the ungodly deep pockets the Yankees have." - Chipper Jones
by MBL1 on Jul 5, 2010 11:03 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
So, 90% of all MLB players deserve to be All-Stars then.
This guy wants to suck all the cubs dick can he not have an unbias some what partition reguards
by RWH2 on Apr 5, 2010 10:20 AM CDT
by justincredubil02 on Jul 6, 2010 5:40 AM EDT up reply actions
This is a shame
Everyone should just be happy for Omar. Of course people are going to disagree with the selection. I disagree with the selection. Nobody anywhere is bashing Omar though. There is a HUGE difference between bashing a selection and bashing a player. All star selections are hotly debated every year. Why make it a bigger story than it is? Just be happy for Omar.
What the OP said....
some of you guys are hilarious….
Omar really deserves it. The Braves wouldn’t be where they are right now without him. If someone else notices this, and capitalizes on it, then more power to them.
That’s awesome that we have so many Braves going. And I’m voting Wagner.
p.s. Bud Selig is the root of all evil. That kid in Detroit should have had the call overturned, bc he pitched a perfect game. Replay is desperately needed in a game, where the umpires are considered gods. The All-Star team should not be decided this way. But that’s life. Either go with it, or swim against the current.
"It looks like The Hound of the Baskervilles out there." - Steve Stone
"...I'm reminded of Wuthering Heights." - Harry Caray
~
I see a troll under that bridge!
by Chief Noc-A-Homa on Jul 5, 2010 5:03 PM EDT reply actions
I appreciate this post
I am happy for the Braves organization that several of our players were chosen to be on the team.
I can understand why some might ? some of the choices. This happens every year, but how many times has complaining about those chosen made a difference?
I choose to be happy for Omar and all of the Braves chosen to play. This is most likely one of the greatest honors he has ever been given. Why put a damper on the excitement that surrounds this game. Be happy for our Braves and look forward to seeing us being represented by several great guys, expecting each of them to make us proud to be a Braves fan. I love my team and it’s been a “team” effort this year that has us in first place in our division. If possible please keep the negativity out of it.
Washington Tribune, June 29 2010 – "The stonecutters carving Stephen Strasburg’s name onto the Washington Monument have been directed to await further instructions."
A possible solution
for next year’s ASG.
Have Jason Heyward select both leagues. He would be a fair and impartial jurist. Problem solved.
"Jason Heyward was a Greek philosopher reincarnated as a baseball player." - Don Sutton
Hanson wasn't as productive?
He became the first rookie to beat the Yankees and Red Sox in back to back starts in the same season. But no, he wasn’t productive. He was I believe either second or third in rookie of the year voting, but no he wasn’t productive.
/facepalm
"Tony Gwynn made sacrifices. Cal Ripken made sacrifices. I'm not sure Derek Jeter made sacrifices given the ungodly deep pockets the Yankees have." - Chipper Jones
by MBL1 on Jul 5, 2010 11:00 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
This
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 6, 2010 1:35 AM EDT up reply actions
This is almost humorous
Seriously. 255+ comments about whether a damn good utility player deserves a spot on an all-star team? Quite frankly, who the fuck cares?
We’re talking about an all-star selection. This has NEVER been about who deserves it, nor will it EVER be. The ASG, Gold gloves, and to a slightly lesser extent the MVP, CY and ROY are all a big joke. NONE of them usually go to “who deserves it most”, though I would say the CY is probably the closest. I mean Jimmy Rollins and Dustin Pedroia MVP, or Gold Glover Bobby Abreu???? Omar’s selection ranks so far down the list compared to some of the BS we’ve seen recently!!!
I feel like the Comedian, after reading this I wanna open a big ass bottle of Jack and cry my fucking eyes out….
+ a million
"It breaks your heart. It is designed to break your heart. The game begins in the spring, when everything else begins again, and it blossoms in the summer, filling the afternoons and evenings, and then as soon as the chill rains come, it stops and leaves you to face the fall alone." A. Bartlett Giamatti
HEY EVERYBODY THATS UPSET ABOUT OMAR BEING AN ALL-STAR
I love it that some of the same folks that say “oh how wonderful to finally show appreciation to middle relievers by selecting Arthur Rhodes”, then bash the selection of Omar. Okay, Roy Halladay is an All-Star pitcher. Albert Pujols is an All-Star first baseman. Arthur Rhodes is an All-Star middle reliever. Omar Infante is an All-Star utility player.
"It breaks your heart. It is designed to break your heart. The game begins in the spring, when everything else begins again, and it blossoms in the summer, filling the afternoons and evenings, and then as soon as the chill rains come, it stops and leaves you to face the fall alone." A. Bartlett Giamatti
Difference is...
Rhodes plays a role in the vast majority of games, and standout MRs are often given a spot. Infante’s been no better than Zimmerman or Votto, and he’s only had about half the actual PAs.
Advance apologies if the contents of this sports-based post offended you. I'm just aiming to educate the masses. My law professor says they're asses.
Panthers '010: Save the Richardson family coffers! We'll take the winning if we stumble into it.
by MichaelProcton on Jul 6, 2010 1:53 PM EDT up reply actions
Manuel quote on why he chose Omar:
We were told you had to have a utility player on your team," Manuel said. "We went over a bunch of names, and I thought (Infante) was the best one on there. He can play all the infield positions and he can play all the outfield positions. And he’s hitting .300 or so."
Washington Tribune, June 29 2010 – "The stonecutters carving Stephen Strasburg’s name onto the Washington Monument have been directed to await further instructions."
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