2016 World Series Game 2 Live Blog
| 4:01 |
: Hello all.
|
| 4:02 |
: Jeff Sullivan is either here or will be here soon as well.
|
| 4:03 |
:
Who are you rooting for tonight?
Chicago (53.3% | 63 votes)
Cleveland (46.6% | 55 votes)
Total Votes: 118
|
| 4:03 |
: Will Jason Heyward ever start a game this series?
|
| 4:04 |
: If he didn’t start the first two games, not sure what would change the situation for the rest of the series. He’s a defensive replacement at this point.
|
| 4:04 |
:
Who will win tonight?
Chicago (77.2% | 78 votes)
Cleveland (22.7% | 23 votes)
Total Votes: 101
|
| 4:05 |
: super pumped, ws live chats are the highlight of my year
|
| 4:05 |
: I’m both skeptical and flattered. Skattered?
|
| 4:06 |
: I like tradition, and it’s Cubs tradition to not win. So go Indians!
|
| 4:06 |
: Both teams have tradition on their side in that sense.
|
| 4:06 |
: Will Bauer get deeper into a ballgame than against Toronto? 🙂
|
| 4:06 |
: One would think.
|
| 4:07 |
: Did Miller get over extended last night or is he good to go again tonight?
|
| 4:07 |
: Yes and yes
|
| 4:07 |
: Hello friends! Hello Craig!
|
| 4:08 |
: I think Miller isn’t likely to be as good tonight as last night, but could go for a batter or two.
|
| 4:08 |
: Hello Jeff!
|
| 4:08 |
: When I think about second basemen, I think about little guys usually. Is there any reason for that?
|
| 4:08 |
: I think I saw something earlier about how Miller could max out at 1 inning
|
| 4:09 |
: Historically, similarly situated players could play either 2nd or 3rd. The bigger guy went to 3rd, smaller guy to 2nd.
|
| 4:10 |
: Shwarber looked good last night. Any chance he playes the field once the series goes to chi?
|
| 4:10 |
: It wouldn’t surprise me if he started a game or 2 in Wrigley.
|
| 4:10 |
: I’m rooting for the Cubs, because I want the series to stay close as long as possible
|
| 4:10 |
: This is a good opinion.
|
| 4:11 |
: I think they’re still waiting on doctor clearance for Schwarber to field
|
| 4:11 |
: Two things to think about today:
|
| 4:11 |
: 1) Did Cubs overreact to Bauer’s “reverse splits”?
|
| 4:11 |
: 2) Is Bauer going to get that two-seamer working the inside edge against the lefties he sees?
|
| 4:12 |
: Good, odd-looking hit for Bryant. The umpire looked like a defender
|
| 4:12 |
: Any agreement with starting Contreras over montero considering arrietas success with montero?
|
| 4:13 |
: I never know if I’m supposed to answer when Craig submits a question!
|
| 4:13 |
: Maddon has several times during the playoffs picked offense over defense when it has seemed like the offense is struggling. This is a continuation on that theme. Montero is a good framer, Contreras better against the run. I think choosing to emphasize the run game is fair against Cleveland. Not sure how tied to Montero Arrieta is.
|
| 4:13 |
: I feel like I would rather start Montero here and have Contreras available later for a potential replacement or high-leverage PH apperance
|
| 4:14 |
: Any chance we see Salazar tonight for long relief if Bauer doesn’t do well?
|
| 4:14 |
: Definitely. Or tomorrow. With Francona saying all the starters will be going on short rest, that’s where Salazar could find his usefulness
|
| 4:14 |
: *Game 3
|
| 4:14 |
: Jeff-I think you should answer any questions you have an answer to. I’m sure the rest here would agree.
|
| 4:14 |
: I don’t want to step on any toes 🙁
|
| 4:14 |
: Really I don’t want to step on anything
|
| 4:15 |
: And the Indians are trailing!
|
| 4:16 |
: Bauer threw what I thought was a good inside two-seamer but Rizzo turned around on that one
|
| 4:16 |
: So there’s your response to Game 1
|
| 4:16 |
: It boggles the mind how Fox hasn’t figured out that people want some kind of K-zone on the screen.
|
| 4:16 |
: Would Bauer be considered a success as a #3 overall pick?
|
| 4:16 |
: I’m not completely convinced that’s true
|
| 4:17 |
: Yes. On Bauer.
|
| 4:17 |
: Bauer might be like replacement-level No. 3 pick? On average he’s fine but you never really *want* it
|
| 4:17 |
:
John Smoltz as an announcer
Love him! (16.8% | 18 votes)
Like him (64.4% | 69 votes)
Don’t like him (18.6% | 20 votes)
Total Votes: 107
|
| 4:18 |
: I’m not sure if it is overreacting to his reverse splits as much as the fact the best hitting options they had happened to be right handers. Even if his splits are neutral, it would still therefore favor their superior righty bats.
|
| 4:18 |
: except Montero is the normal play, and Coghlan started yesterday.
|
| 4:18 |
: Bauer looks short.
|
| 4:19 |
: He really does. What’s the camera doing? Zobrist looks the same size and he’s 60 feet farther away
|
| 4:19 |
: Do 2 seamers generally have reverse platoon splits like changeups do?
|
| 4:19 |
: Research has shown two-seamers actually have huge platoon splits. Opposite of changeups. Of course, different two-seamers are used differently
|
| 4:19 |
: But it’s one of the reasons why sinker/slider relievers tend to suck against lefties
|
| 4:20 |
: How good is Bryant’s first to home time? He was flying.
|
| 4:20 |
: He is pretty swift around the bases.
|
| 4:20 |
: Bryant even has a dreamy smile in slo-mo while rounding 3rd.
|
| 4:20 |
: Reminds me of Cliff Lee’s smiling pitch face
|
| 4:21 |
: Good news for the Indians: Bauer’s finger is holding. Bad news for the Indians: he’s still Trevor Bauer
|
| 4:21 |
: Bauer now ties the length of his last outing.
|
| 4:21 |
: less disgusting this time
|
| 4:22 |
: It’s weird how an out followed by a single leaves your win expectation below 50%.
|
| 4:22 |
: it follows with the conventional wisdom of getting the leadoff hitter out.
|
| 4:23 |
: Zobrist would hit righty if they really believed in the reverse split right?
|
| 4:23 |
: and the two man booth is better
|
| 4:23 |
: Maybe they just cited the reverse splits to make Jason Heyward feel better
|
| 4:23 |
: Good at-bats by Cubbies so far.
|
| 4:23 |
: Bauer can make a lot of disciplined hitters look great!
|
| 4:23 |
: Based on on Madden’s and Heyward’s comments, I don’t think Heyward feels better.
|
| 4:24 |
: I didn’t catch Heyward’s comments!
|
| 4:24 |
: I’m a Mets fan. Father’s father (82) is a Cleveland fan. Mother’s mother (91) is a Cubs fan. Who should I be rooting for?
|
| 4:24 |
: Tell grandmother they’ll be good again in 2017
|
| 4:24 |
: maybe I read too much into them, but it was a “he’s going to do what he thinks is best for the team”
|
| 4:25 |
: Having Zobrist and Fowler bat righty would be overreacting
|
| 4:25 |
: Schwarber down. The swing looks fine. But he’s definitely trying to yank. Didn’t work that time!
|
| 4:25 |
: they certainly wouldn’t be used to it.
|
| 4:25 |
: so we all agree if that throw goes home bryant is out, yes?
|
| 4:25 |
: definitely a good chance, but a lot can happen on a relay throw.
|
| 4:27 |
: Has Baez had a face injury or is that helmet guard just personal preference?
|
| 4:28 |
: He started wearing it I believe after getting dental work done.
|
| 4:28 |
: How many pitches do you think he can go for?
|
| 4:28 |
: If the second and third go like the first, he’ll be out after 3.
|
| 4:29 |
: Re Bryant’s speed – Some scouts said they would have him in CF when he came up and it was not clear if he could handle 3B.
|
| 4:29 |
: He played some center last year
|
| 4:30 |
: Bryant is such a fantastic athlete. I think it can get overlooked because he’s just a big dude but he’s amazing all-around
|
| 4:31 |
: To monitor: Arrieta’s slider usage. It’s trended up in the playoffs of late, which suggests it *might* be getting back to normal. Kipnis just whiffed on it
|
| 4:31 |
: Missed the chat earlier, but what are your keys to getting to Arrieta tonight? He did get battered around a bit, (Arrieta standards of course) closer to the end of the season.
|
| 4:32 |
: Arrieta has steadily declined against lefties. If his mechanics are fixed, then, well, he’s Jake Arrieta, but as I was writing this, Lindor walked on four pitches
|
| 4:32 |
: Get ahead in the count. Don’t swing at balls out of the zone, which isn’t easy.
|
| 4:32 |
: The more recent version of Arrieta has had a huge platoon split. He’ll always devastate righties, but the Indians have just two of those in the lineup
|
| 4:33 |
: do you think high pitch count at bats that result in outs have a meaningful effect on a teams probability to win a game?
|
| 4:33 |
: Not individual ones, I don’t think
|
| 4:33 |
: I see a lot of complaints about Bauer, especially by Dave last night. Bauer isnt that bad. He put up a 2.7 WAR this year, the Indians could do far far worse, such as Josh Tomlin…
|
| 4:34 |
: Bauer has definitely improved. His command just isn’t great and I don’t find him enjoyable to watch
|
| 4:34 |
: The positional versatility might be my favorite thing about this Cubs team.
|
| 4:34 |
: And the Cubs have a manager who is very good at utilizing it.
|
| 4:34 |
: How does Arrieta do against the run game?
|
| 4:35 |
: He’s a little slow to the plate.
|
| 4:35 |
: Arrieta the last three years: -9 stolen-base runs. That’s pretty bad as that stat goes
|
| 4:35 |
: were cubs/indians recent trade suitors? thought they might’ve matched up well recently, but don’t recall whispers or pieces
|
| 4:36 |
: there were rumors about a pitcher going to Chicago in the offseason. Not sure if there was anything to it.
|
| 4:36 |
: In 5 years, are we going to look back and go “Damn, I really wish Kyle Schwarber was as good as Gary Sanchez”?
|
| 4:36 |
: Schwarber will be the better hitter, I think, but I bet Sanchez will run the higher WARs
|
| 4:36 |
: He is so good as a defender
|
| 4:37 |
: And that’s two walks for Arrieta, them coming back to back. He’s not *wild* but he’s not real precise
|
| 4:37 |
: Smelt mentioned Arrieta has weird mechanics. What’s weird about them? Is it mostly just that tap he does right before he throws?
|
| 4:37 |
: Throws extremely across the body. Watch his front foot — it doesn’t point toward home plate, like you get caught
|
| 4:37 |
: So he kind of throws over his hip
|
| 4:38 |
: Pitchers have some seriously strong looking legs.
|
| 4:38 |
: Can Schwarber be serviceable in left field?
|
| 4:38 |
: This is not a coincidence
|
| 4:38 |
: I’m doubtful. about Schwarber, not pitchers’ legs.
|
| 4:38 |
: Schwarber can probably be a -5 left fielder. It’s something
|
| 4:38 |
: What makes a pitcher enjoyable to watch? (to you)
|
| 4:38 |
: Ability to locate, and pace
|
| 4:39 |
: You think cold weather is the culprit right now?
|
| 4:39 |
: Another three-ball count for Arrieta…
|
| 4:39 |
: It can’t help. Lester was a bit off last night, too.
|
| 4:40 |
: Oh, I thought Ramirez got that one. Maybe it was mis-hit but I choose to blame the wind
|
| 4:40 |
: 99mph off the bat. Just, juuuuuuuuuust missed
|
| 4:40 |
: After 1! 1-0 Cubs, but neither pitcher looks good
|
| 4:40 |
: Pitcher enjoyability for me-a ton of movement on pitches-although ability to locate and working quickly also help.
|
| 4:42 |
: In that case, tonight should be fun for you Craig
|
| 4:42 |
: What do you think is the best position for Schwarbs in the future?
|
| 4:43 |
: We really don’t know how he’ll come back yet, but probably DH.
|
| 4:43 |
: Looks like a battle of poor command vs poor stuff right now.
|
| 4:43 |
: Both pitchers are definitely battling.
|
| 4:43 |
: Maddux has to be my all time favorite pitcher to watch
|
| 4:43 |
: He’s a good one.
|
| 4:44 |
: Stuck in class, can’t see game. Which pitcher looks worse right now?
|
| 4:44 |
: yes
|
| 4:44 |
: Will the Cubs excellent season be diminished if they lose the World Series?
|
| 4:45 |
: No question that it will. *Should* it be? Well, people don’t seem to care so much about that
|
| 4:45 |
: it will be enhanced if they win it, but they’ve had a great year and are set up to continue giving themselves more chances
|
| 4:45 |
: Sanchez a good defender??? He has a cannon but everything else was bad I heard
|
| 4:46 |
: I get distracted by goofy mechanics. Kershaw drives me crazy for instance, I want a clean delivery to watch
|
| 4:46 |
: Good receiver as well. Haven’t heard complaints about his game-calling. I don’t know if he’s so agile, and sometimes they say he takes plays off, but scouts agree he turned a corner in his motivation a year or two ago
|
| 4:46 |
: World baseball classic do anything for you guys?
|
| 4:46 |
: Great entertainment! Wish the US team cared more
|
| 4:47 |
: It’s always weird to watch those things and realize you’re not rooting for your own country
|
| 4:47 |
: It’s interesting, but I usually find spring training compelling. I would love to see it at another time but it isn’t feasible.
|
| 4:47 |
: You find spring training compelling?!
|
| 4:48 |
: i like to see the narratives develop, not the actual games as much.
|
| 4:49 |
: Think arrieta ever was close on an extension? Feel like the Cubs may have dodged a bullet on that one.
|
| 4:49 |
: I doubt it. He was almost definitely headed for free agency and he will probably cash in.
|
| 4:49 |
: Ramirez is not a .300 hitter. But he’s better than a .250 hitter, right? What we thinking next season – can he keep it up around .280?
|
| 4:49 |
: I seldom think in terms of average but I expect a wRC+ around 100 – 110
|
| 4:50 |
: Would either of you have treated Schwaber for Miller?
|
| 4:51 |
: I might have, depending on the alternatives.
|
| 4:51 |
: I probably would have, but I see Schwarber more as a good hitter than as a good player
|
| 4:51 |
: Would you rather have Ramirez or Baez on your team?
|
| 4:51 |
: Without Schwarber’s injury, Baez would have gotten ____ PAs in the regular season.
|
| 4:52 |
: That’s a good one! I will take Baez by a hair, assuming he is defensively special
|
| 4:52 |
: 300-350?
|
| 4:52 |
: I would also take Baez.
|
| 4:53 |
: It’s the not even remotely competitive pitches that turn me off from Bauer
|
| 4:53 |
: You and me both. It’s aggravating even though I know he is trying his best
|
| 4:53 |
: I just loathe wasted pitches
|
| 4:53 |
: How will Schwarber DH? Aren’t the Cubs high on him?
|
| 4:54 |
: Yes, and he’ll play left field and the Cubs will put up with it for the bat.
|
| 4:54 |
: I think I remember reading throwing over to first is an advantage for the pitcher in the ongoing at bat? Is that correct or am I remembering incorrectly?
|
| 4:54 |
: Isn’t it like 40 in Cleveland right now? Chicago Februaries are like 0 degrees with 20 MPH winds. And the Cubs have their faces covered in the dugout.
|
| 4:54 |
: but they are in Arizona in February.
|
| 4:55 |
: i feel like winning the end-of-season tournament is so ingrained in American sports culture, this will def impact people’s memory of the 2016 Cubs
|
| 4:55 |
: for sure-and it should, but making it this far is a big success.
|
| 4:56 |
: Best future cub between contreras, schwarber, baez, and Russell? Basically no Bryant or Rizzo allowed
|
| 4:56 |
: I take Russell.
|
| 4:58 |
: I’ll go with Baez, actually
|
| 4:58 |
: Which team needs the win more tonight? The Indians to have a bit more breathing room with their pitching or the Cubs to avoid the 0-2 start and the haunts of the curse?
|
| 4:58 |
: Any Indians loss is going to make me nervous. I think the Cubs *need* the win today more but an Indians loss would knock them back to being strong underdogs
|
| 4:59 |
: Word in Chicago is that Soler does not like to play in the cold.
|
| 4:59 |
: Nobody likes to play in the cold
|
| 4:59 |
: how many games need to be shaved off the sprin training sked to get the LDSes to best of 7?
|
| 5:00 |
: Trick answer! Shorten the season to 154
|
| 5:00 |
: None, but they might have to play more regular season games in March, which often isn’t a good look. I would like to see a lot of doubleheaders on Saturdays in the summer.
|
| 5:00 |
: Jason Heyward and Javy Baez are wimps. It’s really not THAT cold, right?
|
| 5:00 |
: Maddon wore a parka last night.
|
| 5:00 |
: Arrieta is very good, don’t get me wrong. But his *dominance* was relatively short lived, no?
|
| 5:01 |
: A couple of years of being as good as pretty much anybody. Hell of a peak
|
| 5:01 |
:
Joe Buck as an announcer
Love him! (2.9% | 4 votes)
Like him (36.0% | 49 votes)
Don’t like him (61.0% | 83 votes)
Total Votes: 136
|
| 5:02 |
: I don’t want to bias the audience here but I kind of like Joe Buck and have for a few years
|
| 5:02 |
: Arrieta has pitched a ton of innings the last couple years. It could be catching up to him, although rest in the offseason could get him back to dominance in the early part of next year, too.
|
| 5:03 |
: What’s weaker for the Indians right now: pitchers or outfielders?
|
| 5:03 |
: Probably outfielders since they can shift so many of their innings to the right arms
|
| 5:03 |
: The miller alternative was Torres for Chapman.
|
| 5:03 |
: Arrieta’s through two, still 1-0 Cubs. He’s thrown 35 pitches, while Bauer’s thrown 51
|
| 5:03 |
: I would rather do Schwarber for Miller than that.
|
| 5:04 |
: What are the chances we see Salazar tonight?
|
| 5:04 |
: pretty good.
|
| 5:04 |
: I think they should have traded Schwarber. Good hitter, but he doesn’t fit into the type of team they’re building.
|
| 5:04 |
: They might just want to wait until he proves himself a little bit more. And then, yeah, he’s flippable
|
| 5:05 |
: Hey Jeff! What would it take for the Astros to trade for Soler this off-season?
|
| 5:05 |
: I very honestly don’t know what the Cubs will want or need? They’re so…fine. Everywhere. It’s confusing.
|
| 5:05 |
: But I do think Soler will be pretty damn available
|
| 5:05 |
: trading schwarber in the middle of his rehab = poor clubhouse optics
|
| 5:06 |
: the trade they made didn’t have great optics, either.
|
| 5:06 |
: Is it true that good base-stealing teams like the Indians are better at controlling the running game because they understand the mechanics better?
|
| 5:06 |
: It’s probably nonsense! But it’s at least a theory I can’t recall ever having seen be investigated
|
| 5:07 |
: 2017 cubs are better right?
|
| 5:07 |
: You might be setting the bar a bit too high.
|
| 5:07 |
: What would you consider Bauer’s “put away pitch”? Or does he have one?
|
| 5:07 |
: Curveball, followed by sinker. These are graded relatively
|
| 5:08 |
: So this is an extremely slow game, I’ve noticed.
|
| 5:08 |
: I sucked at little league so I always played right field. Why does the worst defender play LF usually in the majors?
|
| 5:09 |
: in little league right handed batters pull the ball to left field so the left fielder gets a lot more chances. In the majors, that isn’t the case and you need a stronger arm for rf.
|
| 5:09 |
: If this game is raindee out in the 7th and it’s still 1-0 do they call it, or are all WS games played through
|
| 5:09 |
: We’d be back for the finish tomorrow!
|
| 5:09 |
: Whenever people talk about ‘curses’ I assume they’re being ironic.
|
| 5:09 |
: They feel like one of those things that trends only because people are talking about how stupid it is that it’s trending
|
| 5:11 |
: Craig, if you went to the doubleheaders in Saturdays, would you then advocate for the extended 25 man roster swapping?
|
| 5:11 |
: Yes, 25 man roster is sort of arbitrary anyway.
|
| 5:12 |
: Wish there was more of a neutral on the Joe buck vote. Don’t hate him nearly as much as other cubs fans
|
| 5:12 |
: “don’t like him” isn’t strong enough wording
|
| 5:12 |
: I should have added a neutral option but then again, internet voters never vote on a neutral platform
|
| 5:12 |
: Trevor Bauer has a witchy nose
|
| 5:12 |
: I would prefer an audio track of the ambient stadium noise over just about any PBP announcer. I can see what happened on the field, no one needs to tell me what I just saw.
|
| 5:13 |
: but then who read the sponsorhsips?
|
| 5:13 |
: Gameday tells me Bauer has thrown 40 strikes so far but I don’t recall seeing more than three of them
|
| 5:14 |
: Cubs need another pitcher. Hammels can be improved on
|
| 5:14 |
: Schwarber comes through! Green light, slams a single into right-center. 2-0 Cubs
|
| 5:14 |
: Cubs have had two straight years of good injury luck on the pitching front. Need as many decent pitchers as possible, Hammell included.
|
| 5:14 |
: That was a *terrible* 3-and-0 fastball. Literally right down the gut
|
| 5:15 |
: If fowler leaves, who bats leadoff next year?
|
| 5:15 |
: Zobrist, I would imagine.
|
| 5:16 |
: Is Kyle Schwarber even old enough to have been alive when his goatee was considered fashionable?
|
| 5:16 |
: There’s a very specific kind of face for which a goatee like that is well suited
|
| 5:16 |
: I respect Joe Buck. I just wish his voice sounded a little more pleasant.
|
| 5:17 |
: Holy shit Baez
|
| 5:17 |
: That was a horrible pitch to chase!
|
| 5:17 |
: In any case, 2-0 after two and a half.
|
| 5:17 |
: We’re on pace for a 4:08 contest…
|
| 5:18 |
: I’d think Bauer has to be done after this inning, right? Hasn’t looked sharp all game.
|
| 5:18 |
: I’d pull him now but I’m just particularly Bauer-averse
|
| 5:18 |
: Now imagine this guy on short rest
|
| 5:18 |
: More batters need to swing 3-0
|
| 5:19 |
: Anecdotally there’s been an unusual amount of that in these playoffs. In reality it’s too small a sample
|
| 5:19 |
: Increasingly over the past 2-3 years, the #1 thing that bothers me about watching baseball is fans (both live and TV) who think they can tell the strike zone from their vantage point. (I think it was actually a HBT article about the geometry of calling pitches from your couch that started it for me). Thoughts?
|
| 5:20 |
: We’re definitely all getting deceived by the camera angles and whatnot. I am not sufficiently educated to speak to what the illusions are, but our eyes suck, especially with off-center angles like tonight’s. God bless pitch-tracking data
|
| 5:20 |
: CRAIG DONT STEAL MY IDEAS
|
| 5:20 |
: sorry
|
| 5:21 |
: Anyone else just not that impressed by the Schwarber return? At least as much as the media is making it out to be
|
| 5:21 |
: I went climbing the other night with a friend who had his torn ACL repaired in March. So it’s impressive to see Schwarber back because this is rare, but then, it’s also rare to have his particular injury timeline that made this all possible
|
| 5:22 |
: Missed most of 2016. Do we generally think Jose Ramirez’s breakout is for real?
|
| 5:22 |
: Legitimate player, but he’s a power boost shy of being actually great
|
| 5:22 |
: I feel like this game should be a lot worse than 2-0
|
| 5:23 |
: What would your bullpen strategy be tonight if you were managing the Indians?
|
| 5:23 |
: I go to Salazar now if I trust him. If not, I’ll try McAllister
|
| 5:23 |
: I am mystified by the Joe Buck fans. Everything he says other than straight pbp is conventional wisdom, cliche or silly narrative.
|
| 5:24 |
: I think he’s pretty good at reading the situations and he doesn’t say much that’s outright wrong or stupid. Stupid avoidance is a very important quality!
|
| 5:24 |
: Also I like his dry sense of humor
|
| 5:24 |
: How many big playoff moments does Schwarber need to have before Cameron stops saying the Cubs should have shipped him out for Miller?
|
| 5:25 |
: I can’t believe people care about announcers so much
|
| 5:25 |
: Well in theory his opinion shouldn’t change based on post-deadline results, right?
|
| 5:25 |
: We spend a lot time listening to them, though.
|
| 5:25 |
: I kind of agree with JC
|
| 5:25 |
: I mostly tune all announcers out. So it’s weird to me that there are people who are super passionate
|
| 5:26 |
: Do you think Shaw goes more than an inning tonight?
|
| 5:26 |
: For sure. He might be second in line
|
| 5:26 |
: I know. But the fact that it makes people viscerally angry is weird to me.
|
| 5:27 |
: You tear two ligaments then try making yourself breakfast six months later.
|
| 5:27 |
: I’m pretty sure most people would be able to do that?
|
| 5:27 |
: I think the “this announcer doesn’t like my team” is absurd, but poor local announcers can lower enjoyment of enjoying the game.
|
| 5:28 |
: Has anyone ever pitched in all 7 games of WS?
|
| 5:28 |
: Is Carlos Santana’s power wasted leading off? Or is that offset by allowing them to get more ABs out of one of their best hitters?
|
| 5:30 |
: it matters less in the AL, but his walk rate and OBP are great so it makes sense.
|
| 5:30 |
: Cubs fans get Len Kasper all year, so the downgrade is more noticeable
|
| 5:30 |
: perhaps
|
| 5:30 |
: Darrel Knowles pitched in all 7 in 1973
|
| 5:31 |
: For some reason, I find Buck much more tolerable now that McCarver is gone.
|
| 5:31 |
: This is probably not a coincidence
|
| 5:32 |
: Buck did an interview on 670 the Score (Carries the Cubs games), and he came off as a pretty good dude. I think people get sick of him because he’s so ubiquitous.
|
| 5:32 |
: McAllister is throwing in the Cleveland bullpen. Bauer is at 76 pitches, many of them bad
|
| 5:33 |
: Joe Buck does a great job in big moments. At the end of the NLCS Game 6, he knew when to let the crowd make most of the noise.
|
| 5:33 |
: The indians winning is hiding fact only lindor has hit right?
|
| 5:33 |
: and more bad pitches from Bauer. leadoff walk
|
| 5:33 |
: That’s what made the ALCS so incredible. The Indians hitters sucked!
|
| 5:33 |
: Horrible pitch by Bauer there in the full count
|
| 5:34 |
: You’re really letting McAllister see this game? They still have a shot at this game!
|
| 5:34 |
: I think he’s fine as a reliever, although I’m surprised not to see Salazar. Maybe he’s not as ready as they have said he is
|
| 5:35 |
: Only Joe Buck makes me angry. He just drips condescension. Also his moralizing about stuff turns me off.
|
| 5:35 |
: Does he still moralize or is that just a Randy Moss thing from like 13 years ago?
|
| 5:35 |
: How many innings can McAllister go?
|
| 5:35 |
: if it stays close, i doubt more than 2 innings. If he’s bad, then probably just 1.
|
| 5:35 |
: Most announcers only detract from the viewing experience, very few, like Vin Scully, enhance the viewing experience. As was mentioned during last nights chat, this is due to the fact that announcers talk way too much.
|
| 5:37 |
: really nice turn on that double play.
|
| 5:37 |
: That is a very wonderful double play
|
| 5:37 |
: Don’t know if Kipnis makes that a few years ago
|
| 5:38 |
: In 2014, the numbers had Kipnis as one of the worse second basemen around. This year, way above average!
|
| 5:38 |
: All things considered, 4 IP and 2 ER is outstanding given how Bauer has actually looked
|
| 5:38 |
: Russell singles and Bauer is toast today
|
| 5:38 |
: you seem like a glass half full person
|
| 5:39 |
: 87 pitches, 61% strikes. Eight swings and misses. Half of the curves were balls
|
| 5:39 |
: Since Vin got brought up, would his meandering story telling, which is incredibly charming during the season, be good in the WS?
|
| 5:39 |
: yes
|
| 5:40 |
: Zach McAllister over the season’s final two months: 25 innings, 7 walks, 25 strikeouts, 5 runs. 94.3mph average fastball
|
| 5:40 |
: This is two years in a row now of MLB consumers speaking very highly of A-Rod commentary. How long until he’s in the booth for a nationally televised game?
|
| 5:40 |
: he might prefer a studio job. less travel.
|
| 5:40 |
: Is it especially difficult for hitters to see very different pitchers back-to-back in the same game? For example, Bauer likes to work really high in the zone, while Andrew Miller has that nasty slider he likes to throw low in the zone as a finishing move. Would it be especially difficult to face these two styles back-to-back? (Ignore the fact that Andrew Miller is just unhittable in any context)
|
| 5:41 |
: It’s definitely an idea worth exploring. Poorly researched, beyond looking at knuckleballers, but it makes a certain amount of intuitive sense that it would be tough to hit an extremely different pitcher
|
| 5:42 |
: Jeff do you get called sully? Craig you probably get the Friday craaaaig a lot too
|
| 5:42 |
: that’s died out a bit over the last decade.
|
| 5:42 |
: People don’t really call me by name. Usually they say “hey” and I look and then we have a conversation
|
| 5:43 |
: I’ve always liked Joe Buck and have never understood the extreme hatred shown to him (reddit is awful). He injects enthusiasm into the viewing experience.
|
| 5:43 |
: I like the parenthetical as a standalone
|
| 5:43 |
: Down goes Fowler! McAllister escapes the most minor of jams
|
| 5:44 |
: 95, 95, 95. McAllister has a style
|
| 5:44 |
: A bit overlooked given the struggles of others, esp Heyward, but Fowler has not been good this postseason.
|
| 5:44 |
: Not sure about Soler and his history bunting but that seemed like a good time to do that. Would have been one run right there. What do you guys think?
|
| 5:44 |
: I don’t really like bunting.
|
| 5:45 |
: I doubt that Soler is a skilled bunter
|
| 5:45 |
: Given the current events, would having to play 3 innings tomorrow hurt the Cubs or Indians more?
|
| 5:46 |
: Miller might be able to pitch 3 days in a row, no way he can do 4, although he would be free for multiple innings tomorrow so I’ll say it is a tossup.
|
| 5:46 |
: Russell looks like he has room for another fifteen pounds of muscle on that frame. Think there’s more power potential there?
|
| 5:46 |
: No question. Dude’s 22. He can get so much better!
|
| 5:46 |
: Of course, that then detracts from his outstanding defensive play
|
| 5:47 |
: McAlister goes to what? The sixth at most?
|
| 5:47 |
: Expectation of Cubs 2017 payroll: O/U $185 million
|
| 5:47 |
: I bet he goes the next inning, then we see a couple innings of Shaw
|
| 5:48 |
: Just such a beautiful two-strike two-seamer by Arrieta
|
| 5:48 |
: I’d guess over with internal raises, but they don’t really have a lot of work to do to be favorites next year.
|
| 5:48 |
: Bauer has 80-grade punch-me face. It’s Cutler-esque.
|
| 5:48 |
: /taps nose
|
| 5:48 |
: Indians need to show a bit of offensive life in the bottom of the 4th right?
|
| 5:49 |
: This is 1mph from Jose Ramirez away from being a 3-2 Indians lead. No need to panic just yet
|
| 5:49 |
: But I can’t help but notice the Indians don’t have a hit yet
|
| 5:50 |
: No travel day tomorrow?
|
| 5:50 |
: not if they have to finish tonight’s game.
|
| 5:51 |
: If this game became a rout and then they had to finish 2 innings tomorrow it would be the worst WS experience ever.
|
| 5:51 |
: That was such a bummer of a conclusion
|
| 5:51 |
: What’s going through a pitcher’s head when their mechanics suddenly fail them, like what occasionally happens to Arrieta? A feeling of helplessness?
|
| 5:52 |
: What stops a team from DLing game 5’s starter and replacing him on the WS roster? Always wondered about this.
|
| 5:52 |
: I think probably the opposite. When they know what the problem is I think they all think they can fix it
|
| 5:52 |
: The Commissioner gets to approve/disallow it, and wouldn’t in that situation.
|
| 5:53 |
: do you go to Salazar in a close one since he hasn’t pitched in a while
|
| 5:53 |
: I would be fine with that, although if there are innings tomorrow, you could treat it like a start.
|
| 5:53 |
: Watching the Indians yank starters early (sans Kluber), I feel like baseball in 20 years will have reduced the rule that starters must go 5 innings for a win. Thoughts?
|
| 5:54 |
: What kind of a season would Heyward have to have to opt out?
|
| 5:54 |
: I don’t think the rule will adjust. I think starters will just adjust to not really care. Wins will continue to erode as a statistic that anybody cares about
|
| 5:55 |
: He would only need to get $100 million to make it worthwhile, so if he is at least average with the bat and still great on defense, that should do it at age-29.
|
| 5:55 |
: How aggressive is Maddon going to the bullpen here? Arrieta hasn’t been super sharp, but his pitch count is pretty low.
|
| 5:55 |
: I think he wants Arrieta through six. Don’t think he quite trusts Rondon or Strop at the moment
|
| 5:56 |
: Contreras seems to be yanking the ball back into the zone a lot. That doesn’t usually help, does it?
|
| 5:56 |
: it’s not his best skill. a quiet glove is best.
|
| 5:56 |
: How much are reputation calls a thing?
|
| 5:56 |
: Almost not at all!
|
| 5:56 |
: Anything that sticks out last year to this year why Arrieta has struggled with control so much?
|
| 5:57 |
: His mechanics have just changed. They’ve worked on it. It hasn’t gotten all the way better
|
| 5:57 |
: His balance and timing are slightly off and so his pitches, in turn, are slightly off. It’s had the strongest effect on his slider
|
| 5:57 |
: Another strikeout for McAllister. Finally threw a breaking ball!
|
| 5:57 |
: Weather is gonna get ugly. https://weather.com/weather/radar/interactive/l/USOH0195:1:US?layer=radarConus&zoom=8
|
| 5:58 |
: Odds of Arrieta being taken out with a no-hitter? He’s at 76 pitches through 4
|
| 5:58 |
: No wayyyyyyyyyy they’d push him just for an unrealistic shot at a no-no
|
| 5:59 |
: Cespedes just annpunced he’s opting out (big surprise!) What does he get? I honestly think he’s a bit overrated but I think 5/125 is easy
|
| 5:59 |
: That’s an ARod move right there in the middle of the Series. I think he probably gets 6 years.
|
| 6:00 |
: What are the odds Heyward will have the kind of season where he’d opt out and the Cubs would be glad he did.
|
| 6:00 |
: that’s a pretty small window.
|
| 6:01 |
: The weather on it’s way to CLE was in CHI this afternoon. It was miserable.
|
| 6:01 |
: can confirm
|
| 6:01 |
: Isn’t that what A-Rod got pillored for 10 years back?
|
| 6:01 |
: yep
|
| 6:02 |
: Bring in Chapman early hoping to get him to the rain delay, then again tomorrow to finish 3 or 4 total innings? Dangerous, but tempting.
|
| 6:03 |
: a bit too cute. Wait for a higher leverage inning.
|
| 6:04 |
: Cubs are on the board once more
|
| 6:04 |
: Zobrist with an RBI triple into the corner as Chisenhall literally slips and falls down
|
| 6:05 |
: weather hasn’t been kind to Cleveland today, between Ramirez just missing and Chisenhall slipping there.
|
| 6:05 |
: A boring, slow game that might get the end of itself pushed to tomorrow because of a rain delay. There’s only one October!
|
| 6:06 |
: McAllister, by the way, is coming out. So that’s that
|
| 6:06 |
: Rain starts in 50 minutes
|
| 6:06 |
: Getting a lot of bus questions.
|
| 6:06 |
: What did a rod get pilloried for?
|
| 6:06 |
: I noticed that
|
| 6:07 |
: announcing he was opting out in the middle of the Series.
|
| 6:07 |
: That whole rule about not creating news during the World Series
|
| 6:07 |
: Not that anyone expected Cespedes to *not* opt out
|
| 6:07 |
: I know the results prove otherwise, but it just seems like Rizzo stands way too close to the plate to be effective. He can get jammed on balls squarely in the center of the plate.
|
| 6:07 |
: He is so quick
|
| 6:08 |
: Shaw takes over with a runner on third and one out
|
| 6:08 |
: Does Otero not match up well against this team? Don’t understand the usage of McAllister here. And Zobrist just proved that
|
| 6:09 |
: Not that it matters so much but Otero is an extreme groundballer and the Cubs have a bunch of fly ball hitters. So that would bode well for Chicago
|
| 6:09 |
: RBI single for Schwarber, 4-0. Go ahead and just end the game now
|
| 6:10 |
: Smoltz really cannot get enough of the fact that Schwarber is DHing
|
| 6:10 |
: Craig, there was talk in last night’s chat that you’d make this manager among the FG writers because “he has that confidence about him.” Care to reply?
|
| 6:11 |
: I might be able fake the confidence, which I suppose is important, but commanding the respect of a clubhouse would be pretty much impossible.
|
| 6:12 |
: Officially I am going to say that four-hour, nine-inning baseball games are unwatchable
|
| 6:12 |
: This is just garbage television
|
| 6:12 |
: “The acquisition of Yonder Alonso provided us the flexibility to {trade Anthony Rizzo} and acquire a quality, young power arm in Andrew Cashner.” – Josh Byrnes, January 2012. Yikes.
|
| 6:13 |
: I think it depends on the game. Nationals-Dodgers game 5 was great.
|
| 6:13 |
: Sure, but that one was exceptional
|
| 6:13 |
: I am losing my mind about how boring this is
|
| 6:13 |
: Unwatchable? How would the game move on quicker? Rizzo and Zobrist both had 10+ pitch at bats alone
|
| 6:13 |
: Make Trevor Bauer illegal
|
| 6:14 |
: Make that Kipnis error an actual play made instead
|
| 6:14 |
: Salazar in the pen!
|
| 6:14 |
: Salazar might come in to spice it up!
|
| 6:14 |
: These commercial breaks are longer for the WS, right? They feel much longer.
|
| 6:14 |
: I believe they are longer, yes. It’s not helping
|
| 6:15 |
: If Schwarber gets on base his next at bat you take him down for a pinch runner right?
|
| 6:15 |
: Yeah, especially if the game stays so lopsided
|
| 6:15 |
: I am a Cubs fan and not the least bit bored.
|
| 6:15 |
: Come take over the chat so I can clean the house!
|
| 6:16 |
: Isn’t it a really curious move not to bring in Miller to face Schwarber with a runner on third?
|
| 6:16 |
: LI isn’t that high. might as well wait given workload yesterday.
|
| 6:17 |
: The potential for the thrilling “combined no hitter” isn’t keeping you interested, Jeff?
|
| 6:17 |
: $184 million pinch runner and defensive replacement enters the game.
|
| 6:17 |
: I bet Chisenhall is going to freakin ruin that too
|
| 6:18 |
: Craig, let’s go ahead and agree that if they move the end of this game to tomorrow we will not be live-chatting it. This game doesn’t deserve it
|
| 6:18 |
: 5-0 now. Shaw walks in a run. It is still the top of the fifth
|
| 6:19 |
: are we allowed to agree to that? if so, gladly. I’ve already got plans.
|
| 6:19 |
: Two hours and 10 minutes since the first pitch
|
| 6:19 |
: this is getting out of hand…
|
| 6:19 |
: Andrew Miller finally gets to rest!
|
| 6:19 |
: rain in 41 minutes, we should be at the top of the 6th
|
| 6:20 |
: I cant see Tomlin faring much better than Bauer
|
| 6:20 |
: Tomlin throws strikes, at least. Nothing but strikes!
|
| 6:20 |
: And he probably won’t face Schwarber
|
| 6:21 |
: The inning is over!
|
| 6:21 |
: It has come to a close! 5-0 Cubs. Their win expectancy is 103%
|
| 6:21 |
: Jeff, do you need to be excused? consider yourself excused, then
|
| 6:21 |
: Zounds, how can the young whippersnappers run the basepaths in such trousers?
|
| 6:21 |
: One of the bigger problems is that because of my stream I’m getting the same commercials every single break. I’m going insane
|
| 6:22 |
: Jeff – At least there’s a good chance you can watch the end of the game tomorrow. It’s like falling asleep on the couch while watching a movie and watching the second half later.
|
| 6:22 |
: I’d rather have no plans tomorrow!
|
| 6:22 |
: I really find it bizarre that you guys find this game boring. Did you find yesterday’s as well?
|
| 6:23 |
: It’s partially coming from the perspective of someone who’s supposed to write about this. This game isn’t interesting in a writing perspective
|
| 6:23 |
: I didn’t realize it’s been that long. #CubsFanProblems
|
| 6:23 |
: How much blame goes to Tito for a loss if his players simply can’t execute baseballing?
|
| 6:23 |
: first time a Cubs fan has uttered those words?
|
| 6:23 |
: They executed almost perfectly yesterday so you could chalk it up as a fluke
|
| 6:24 |
: Sorry for being dumb, but what’s the rule for weather delays/postponements in the playoffs/World Series?
|
| 6:24 |
: they play 9 full innings-tomorrow if necessary.
|
| 6:25 |
: Any chance we see Schwarber starting in left in Game 3?
|
| 6:25 |
: assumming Cubs pull this out, my guess is they give him another day.
|
| 6:26 |
: how does this turn of events set up the rest of the series?
|
| 6:27 |
: you sort of knew Cleveland was going to have one of these games. They just need to not have two.
|
| 6:27 |
: For whatever it’s worth I really would be surprised if Schwarber started in the field in Chicago. They love him, but that’s extra dangerous, and I bet there will still be a pinch-hit opportunity with an LI around 2 or so
|
| 6:27 |
: So if the Indians do lose this series, do we begin talking about the “curse of the racist mascot”? Cuz that’s a curse I’d totally believe in.
|
| 6:27 |
: I’d be for it if it would be effective!
|
| 6:28 |
: Shaw looks like he belongs on the 2000 Rockies or Mets
|
| 6:28 |
: He looks like your dad’s barber
|
| 6:28 |
: just got home from school, put the game on, this is immediately not fun help me figure out what to go get for dinner?
|
| 6:28 |
: empanadas!
|
| 6:29 |
: Any predictions on the ratings for this WS? Cubs and Indians are both good stories, Chicago is a huge market, but both are Midwest teams and relatively close together.
|
| 6:29 |
: This seems like a Craig question
|
| 6:30 |
: Perez just stung a ball that hung up. Still no hits for the Indians through five. So that becomes the thing to watch
|
| 6:30 |
: (5-0, going to the sixth, Cubs’ win expectancy 117%)
|
| 6:30 |
: Game 1 was big and series will do very well. best in a while, but close games and clinching games do better. Cubs jumping out to a 3-1 lead and the series going 7 in close games would do the best.
|
| 6:31 |
: “If you have an erection lasting one Pedro Baez inning, please consult your doctor immediately.” – playoff Viagra commercial
|
| 6:31 |
: You could always put it down by watching a Pedro Baez inning
|
| 6:31 |
: Any idea what you’d write about at this point?
|
| 6:31 |
: Cubs in drivers seat. Hendricks next then lackey then Lester on full rest. 4-1 series over.
|
| 6:31 |
: Right now, honestly, no. Part of that is it’s just harder to think in those terms when also live-chatting
|
| 6:32 |
: Valid thought that the time increase between innings is partially due to video-board and on-field entertainment? A way to appeal to those at the ballpark who aren’t particularly interested in baseball?
|
| 6:32 |
: It’s commercials plain and simple.
|
| 6:32 |
: As my journalism professor always said, if you can’t find something to write about — blame yourself
|
| 6:32 |
: I do!
|
| 6:33 |
: If the game has to end tomorrow, who does that help more? I’d say the Cubs. Seems like they could throw Monty out there for 3 innings pretty easily, and the away team probably needs the travel day more than the home team.
|
| 6:33 |
: I don’t think either team benefits if the score is lopsided. You just use your worst available pitcher for the duration
|
| 6:33 |
: What’s more valuable at this point, having Arrieta soak innings to rest the bullpen or saving Arrieta for later games?Has to be the latter but if there’s a rain delay that could change?
|
| 6:33 |
: The Cubs might have to use someone better though, and that would be a minor issue going forward. Tougher to protect a lead than to trail
|
| 6:34 |
: If they have to play tomorrow, what time would it start?
|
| 6:34 |
: I actually don’t think that’s been decided yet?
|
| 6:34 |
: postponing game 3 or 4 would help Cleveland. Arrieta will be on normal rest going forward. If he starts to tire, you take him out regardless.
|
| 6:35 |
: Wait they play a new 9 innings or continue from where it left off?
|
| 6:35 |
: (Continue)
|
| 6:35 |
: The alternative would be hilarious
|
| 6:35 |
: Kluber on 3 days rest: for or against
|
| 6:35 |
: He’ll be worse than usual, but he’s still their best starting option
|
| 6:36 |
: I didn’t realize chief wahoo was still around, I caught a few indians games over the last couple of years but it wasnt on their uniforms…. guess i was lucky
|
| 6:36 |
: They’ve gradually phased it out, but for some reason it’s come back in the playoffs with a vengeance
|
| 6:36 |
: Schwarber hasn’t been medically cleared to play the field.
|
| 6:36 |
: As far as I know this is the latest update
|
| 6:37 |
: Who could have predicted a Salazar-Schwarber PA last week?
|
| 6:38 |
: Is the plan to throw schwarber no strikes or are they already pitching around him?
|
| 6:38 |
: I think that’s just Salazar being rusty
|
| 6:38 |
: that’s just rust probably.
|
| 6:39 |
: Are postseason broadcasters coached on how to dumb down/make more accessible their analysis and commentary for folks who only watch baseball in October?
|
| 6:39 |
: I don’t think there’s anything special done for the playoffs. But national broadcasts definitely don’t get too into the weeds on average
|
| 6:39 |
: Was that the right usage? I don’t know if that was the right usage
|
| 6:39 |
: Speaking of the boring pace, what’s your ideal baseball game? I think something like 4-3 or 6-4 in 3 hours. Also partial to 2-1 in like 2.5
|
| 6:39 |
: 4-3 or 5-4 in 150 minutes
|
| 6:40 |
: is there a chance the Cubs bring back fowler? he is 31 but had almost a 400 OBP and is an ideal leadoff. you don’t want to give him many years but if he agrees to three he would be an upgrade over almora or Heyward in center
|
| 6:40 |
: In that Dodgers/Nationals Game 5 I didn’t *feel* how slow it was moving but that experience was a rare one
|
| 6:40 |
: He probably gets more than that, though.
|
| 6:40 |
: True or false: the Cubs benefit more than the Indians do from the DH this series.
|
| 6:41 |
: Hendricks needs a good defense.
|
| 6:41 |
: The Cubs are built unusually well for interleague play
|
| 6:41 |
: If Salazar feels good after tonight, they have to strongly consider him for game 5 right?
|
| 6:41 |
: They could still elect to have him in a piggyback role
|
| 6:42 |
: He’s had one all year. Almora probably starts tomorrow, but in a turnaround from what I said 3 hours ago, it wouldn’t surprise me to see Heyward get the nod.
|
| 6:42 |
: Baez flies out, to the bottom of the sixth we go. He cursed in some language but it’s unclear in which
|
| 6:43 |
: Do Spanish-language baseball players generally curse in Spanish or English?
|
| 6:43 |
: Clear forecast for Chicago for next several days and warmer than normal.
|
| 6:44 |
: Indians have thrown over 150 pitches and have recorded 14 outs pending Baez PA
|
| 6:44 |
: Do you guys generally write at night? How late are you up, if so?
|
| 6:44 |
: Yes, often, in October. Not in the other months
|
| 6:44 |
: Thankfully it’s way easier being out west
|
| 6:44 |
: that is a problem re: pace
|
| 6:44 |
: the cubs are built unusually well for baseball
|
| 6:45 |
: Touche, jd
|
| 6:45 |
: They really are though. They’re so good! So! Good!
|
| 6:45 |
: Does anybody have a higher athletic:looks athletic ratio than Schwarber? Maybe Panda a few years ago?
|
| 6:45 |
: I feel obligated to say Colon up until he retires
|
| 6:46 |
: Would you expect to see Salazar in say, a close game 6 pitching innings 4-6 behind a lesser starter, or is tonight’s low leverage innings eater all we’re likely to see from him?
|
| 6:46 |
: the former seems possible to me.
|
| 6:47 |
: What run differential warrants a position player pitching?
|
| 6:48 |
: So what do the Indians do if only Kluber, Miller and Allen can actually have a clean inning of pitching…how many runs are the Indians going to have to average to have a say in winning this series now?
|
| 6:49 |
: It’s going to be important not to overreact to this game *too* much. It’s one bad game, but the Cubs had a pretty bad game yesterday. It’s not so weird that the Indians had a huge dropoff after the Kluber start. That’s basically how it was always going to be
|
| 6:49 |
: Kipnis with a double. Not sure where he started but Heyward sure ran a long way to get to that.
|
| 6:49 |
: A hit!
|
| 6:50 |
: There goes that storyline! A dinger here would grab me
|
| 6:50 |
: Fowler may have been way over toward LF. Kipnis’ ball was up the middle.
|
| 6:52 |
: So who is writing the article about buses and scoreboards?
|
| 6:52 |
: That seems like a Carson matter to handle
|
| 6:52 |
: Not sure Arrieta should still be in here.
|
| 6:52 |
: Arrieta’s beard is like a corruption spreading across his body
|
| 6:53 |
: Carlos Santana looks no more athletic than Schwarber
|
| 6:53 |
: Third base!
|
| 6:53 |
: Baez is so, so smooth making off-balance throws
|
| 6:54 |
: I think my feed is ahead of Jeff.
|
| 6:54 |
: It definitely is. My stream is a minute or two behind
|
| 6:54 |
: For all the talk of the arrieta deal being a steal everyone overlooks that clevenger is a leading light in the political science world
|
| 6:54 |
: I know it seems bigger. But it IS only 5 runs.
|
| 6:54 |
: so now that montero narrative’s dissipated
|
| 6:54 |
: Five runs in the playoffs is probably like seven in the regular season
|
| 6:54 |
: Indians are on the board!
|
| 6:54 |
: Maddon has always shown a lot of confidence in Arrieta and sticks with him.
|
| 6:55 |
: 98 pitches for Arrieta, just 55 strikes. Wild and dominant at the same time
|
| 6:55 |
: This game is far from over, and I don’t mean because it has another two hours to go.
|
| 6:56 |
: FWIW, spanish speaking softball players that I play with curse in spanish
|
| 6:56 |
: This is genuinely appreciated, thank you
|
| 6:56 |
: Did arrieta have a good performance or did Cleveland hitters have a bad one
|
| 6:56 |
: Montgomery in, Arrieta out. 5.2, 2 hits, 3 walks, 6 strikeouts. Gave up a couple long flies that might’ve been homers on another day
|
| 6:57 |
: That was a somewhat familiar-looking Arrieta — too wild to be in total control, but still tough to square up nevertheless
|
| 6:57 |
: Cleveland didn’t take advantage of their opportunities. Some of that is luck, some is approach, some is Arrieta. Maybe 1/3 to each?
|
| 6:57 |
: I am the corruption spreading to Arrieta’s face
|
| 6:58 |
: Arrieta had a hard time going deep into games this year.
|
| 6:58 |
: Baez play was so smooth Buck and Smoltz didn’t even comment on it
|
| 6:58 |
: Stay with it. We’ve all moved on from Baez, now it’s all about Schwarber
|
| 6:58 |
: Baez is so yesterday
|
| 6:59 |
: Rains still not here. Let’s close this thing out.
|
| 6:59 |
: why are wild pitches/passed balls considered earned runs?
|
| 6:59 |
: Passed balls aren’t
|
| 7:00 |
: Inning over, 5-1 Cubs. I’d say the Indians have two innings to strike
|
| 7:00 |
: Is Mike Montgomery the most underrated player on the Cubs?
|
| 7:00 |
: Rizzo and baez love fucking with each other
|
| 7:00 |
: It’s the NL’s Beltre/Andrus. Not quite as lovable, but it’s got potential
|
| 7:00 |
: Cubs found a lefty that can throw to first
|
| 7:01 |
: Zobrist has gone from underrated to rated properly and on this team he might be underrated again compared to the young stars on the Cubs.
|
| 7:01 |
: Do you think the Cubs will hit even better in 2017? they likely lose a little bit of production at 2B (older Zobrist or baez won’t replicate a 120+ wRC+) and CF (quite a bit if fowler leaves), but Heyward will bounce back or get replaced (probably at least a 15 point wRC+ gain in the RF mix), Russell could improve as he reaches his peak (105-110 wRC+ is realistic) and you get schwarber back for LF and a full year of Contreras instead of Ross and Montero. rizzo and bryant have peaked but should be able to keep that up. Agree? I think a 110 team wRC+ going up from 106 this year is not unrealistic, those guys are young and might improve.
|
| 7:01 |
: I can pretty easily see the Cubs’ offense improving and their run prevention declining. In fact, I’d project it!
|
| 7:02 |
: Napoli v Arrieta who leaves more buttons undone on their off days?
|
| 7:02 |
: Does it count if you’re shirtless?
|
| 7:02 |
: I bet Napoli spends more time shirtless
|
| 7:02 |
: Chapmann gonna get 2 here? Hasn’t pitched in awhile.
|
| 7:02 |
: Yes if it gets tighter, probably not if it doesn’t
|
| 7:03 |
: just gonna observe that “Manship” is a great name
|
| 7:03 |
: I think Baez likes to mess with Rizzo. I don’t think it’s entirely returned.
|
| 7:03 |
: How many beers is too many beers when alone and watching the World Series
|
| 7:03 |
: Based on this message, more than you’ve had
|
| 7:03 |
: Chicago beat reports named Arrieta as Cub Most Likely to be Shirtless in any situation.
|
| 7:03 |
: Well I’ll be jiggered
|
| 7:04 |
: I asked Dave/Paul this yesterday, which FG writers would be the best in game manager? Worst?
|
| 7:04 |
: On the Cubs offense, I think next year could be pretty similar. It’s hard to project a repeat for Bryant and Rizzo. A decline from Zobrist and the lack of Fowler probably balance out with the positive aspects.
|
| 7:05 |
: Dave would make the most smart decisions, Appelman would be the most beloved player’s manager, and everyone would turn on Carson for reading poetry books in the tunnel behind the dugout
|
| 7:06 |
: I want to see Arrieta and Napoli have a shirtless wood chopping competition
|
| 7:06 |
: would gif
|
| 7:06 |
: Ugh can Heyward get a hit
|
| 7:06 |
: Maybe it was Most Likely to be Sleeveless for Arrieta. Either way.
|
| 7:07 |
: It was probably sleeveless
|
| 7:07 |
: JUST WAIT for how much is gonna be read into that Heyward lineout
|
| 7:07 |
: just earned the start on Friday.
|
| 7:08 |
: Annnnnnnnd they’re loaded. Another opportunity to make this a blowout!
|
| 7:08 |
: Maybe Jeff Manship is…bad
|
| 7:08 |
: Is everyone streaming? Or watching on tv?
|
| 7:08 |
: I’m watching on tv.
|
| 7:09 |
: Otero time. This one makes sense, going for the DP. Don’t know why Manship even pitched
|
| 7:09 |
: Too early to think the Cubs might try to move Heyward? Schwarber, Zobrist, Soler in the corners for the next 3 years. Doesn’t leave Heyward much playing time.
|
| 7:09 |
: No one’s taking him
|
| 7:09 |
: I want to shave Jake Arrieta completely smooth from tip to toe and then smush all of the hair together into a ball and then play basketball with it
|
| 7:09 |
: He also has a no trade.
|
| 7:10 |
: You could go back and be in the seats for any world series in history, which one are you choosing?
|
| 7:10 |
:
How are you watching this game?
TV (70.3% | 128 votes)
Streaming (29.6% | 54 votes)
Total Votes: 182
|
| 7:10 |
: Give me Cardinals/Rangers
|
| 7:11 |
: Holy crap Kris Bryant hit a ground ball
|
| 7:12 |
: Game 6 of that series alone might make it worth it.
|
| 7:12 |
: One thing that this game really highlights is that beyond Allen and Miller the Indians bullpen isn’t THAT great. It’s been talked about so much but their deeper relievers are fairly standard as bullpens go
|
| 7:12 |
: Otero and Shaw are good. It does go at least four deep
|
| 7:12 |
: But Miller is the only dude who’s elite. They don’t have a Miller/Chapman/Betances thing going
|
| 7:13 |
: Since statcast is relatively new, what exit velocity would you like to know? I’m dying to know how hard Pujols hit that bomb off Lidge?
|
| 7:13 |
: That Mark McGwire shot off Randy Johnson in the Kingdome
|
| 7:13 |
: phillies/blue jays. what a rollercoaster
|
| 7:13 |
: Manship is one of those players I see on a playoff roster and wonder how that happened? Felt the same about Lew Ford on the orioles a couple years ago.
|
| 7:14 |
: Salazar is a pretty good weapon in the bullpen as well, right?
|
| 7:14 |
: Potentially yes, in the same way it’s true of Rondon and Strop
|
| 7:14 |
: Gotta make sure they’re actually close to 100% from their injuries
|
| 7:15 |
: Rizzo flies out. We stretch! Or, they stretch. 5-1, bottom 7
|
| 7:15 |
: How would you rank the Cubs bullpen? Seems like its pretty damn good.
|
| 7:16 |
: It’s very good, with an effective Rondon and Strop. Without them, it’s ordinary, but with a Chapman twist
|
| 7:16 |
: yankees / dbacks
|
| 7:16 |
: That’s a better answer than mine
|
| 7:16 |
: If this series goes 7 but every game is a blowout, is it a good series?
|
| 7:16 |
: no
|
| 7:16 |
: Couldn’t you get exit velocity +/- an mph or two off some frame-by-frame video if you had the time to waste on it?
|
| 7:17 |
: With hangtime, pictures, and good physics, yeah, you’d get pretty close. This is the ESPN Home Run Tracker approach
|
| 7:17 |
: If Francona wins another series, that means 8 of 30 2006 MLB managers are very likely headed to the HOF. That’s too many…right? Cox, Torre, LaRussa, Bochy, Francona, Maddon, Piniella, Leyland, with Showalter and Soscia having an eventual shot too. Meanwhile, 1 % of players make it.
|
| 7:18 |
: Vets committee (or its current name) loves managers. Players not so much. Managers won’t “dilute” any standards.
|
| 7:18 |
: Don’t forget about Carl Edwards, he may be a top 3 BP weapon for the Cubs at this point!
|
| 7:18 |
: Love Edwards a lot. I also like Grimm. I like all of them! It’s a good and deep bullpen when it’s fully healthy
|
| 7:19 |
: Thanks, Jeff!
|
| 7:19 |
: Does tonight playing Contreras over Montero seal that contreras is the starter going forward? And does this possibly hint that Montero could be gone before opening day next year?
|
| 7:19 |
: <3
|
| 7:20 |
: they will still need a backup.
|
| 7:20 |
: That was an incredibly close foul ball
|
| 7:21 |
: Didn’t Bill James show that the percentage of playing time for HOFers in a given year tends to be fairly static? It’s a lot higher than 1%.
|
| 7:22 |
: it is shrinking I think. Not sure on %.
|
| 7:22 |
: Bad year for Montero, but you could do a lot worse for backup catcher than him.
|
| 7:23 |
: Can you build a postseason bullpen by dealing for mid/bottom-rotation types lle Montgomery? Can’t you find an Andrew Miller in there?
|
| 7:24 |
: maybe, but it takes time, roster resources, player buyin, and higher than normal arbitration salaries.
|
| 7:25 |
: “Mike Montgomery being with the Seattle Mariners, I don’t think he could ever imagine being with the Chicago Cubs in the World Series.” That seems like an unnecessary dig.
|
| 7:25 |
: Think the Cubs want Monty to start next year?
|
| 7:25 |
: over who?
|
| 7:25 |
: Game’s not over, but this would be Francona’s first loss ever in the World Series. Does that start a new trend to revert to the mean? What would Francona’s mean record be?
|
| 7:25 |
: Montero 14 mil backup?
|
| 7:26 |
: Honestly probably like .505
|
| 7:26 |
: if you have to eat salary to get rid of him and you have a ton of money and he’s a good leader, why do it?
|
| 7:27 |
: Montgomery> Hammels?
|
| 7:28 |
: how much better does that make the team? You could just wait for a pitcher to get injured if you want him to start.
|
| 7:29 |
: I know this was a few batters ago, but how was that Davis grounder foul?
|
| 7:30 |
: it was close, but it was umps judgment call before the bag that it went over in foul territory.
|
| 7:30 |
: Didn’t really see any argument, either, from the Indians’ side
|
| 7:30 |
: Just a confused Coco Crisp
|
| 7:31 |
: Santana whiffs, and so goes maybe the Indians’ last chance to make this a game
|
| 7:31 |
: 5-1, to the top of the eighth
|
| 7:33 |
: Cleveland is 0-5 with a couple walks with runners on base. Not enough opportunities, and not doing anything with the few they have had.
|
| 7:34 |
: If you had to start a franchise with Bryant or Lindor, whom would you choose?
|
| 7:34 |
: I still feel like the real miss was Ramirez just barely missing a three-run homer
|
| 7:34 |
: since then, no dice. Or, some dice, but not very many dice
|
| 7:34 |
: Love Lindor, but still Bryant.
|
| 7:34 |
: Yeah, Bryant
|
| 7:34 |
: Whose series is it to lose from here out? Cubs with home field advantage and only a short-rest kluber to worry about, or Indians with their shutdown pen?
|
| 7:34 |
: Still Cubs series to win.
|
| 7:35 |
: Is Brandon Guyer actually a starting caliber outfielder? The projections seem to really like him.
|
| 7:35 |
: He’s a very good short half of a platoon
|
| 7:35 |
: Would the Cubs have still won their division this year if you take KB out of the lineup?
|
| 7:35 |
: yes
|
| 7:35 |
: Are these Live Blogs more or less active than the weekly chats?
|
| 7:35 |
: Similar audience levels but these obviously last for a hell of a lot longer
|
| 7:35 |
: Like, Friday, I’ll do my usual chat for two hours. We’ve 30 minutes from four, tonight
|
| 7:36 |
: Did Schwarber still accrue service time while he was on the DL all year?
|
| 7:36 |
: yes
|
| 7:37 |
: just like any pitcher who has Tommy John
|
| 7:38 |
: How would you rank the starters in this series? Would you go Kluber-4 Cubs Starters-Bauer-Tomlin?
|
| 7:38 |
: sounds about right.
|
| 7:39 |
: Do I accrue service time by reading these chats?
|
| 7:39 |
: you will soon be eligible for free agency.
|
| 7:40 |
: turns out that was a good half-inning to eat dinner
|
| 7:40 |
: great success on my part, right her e
|
| 7:40 |
: how would u rank the 4 Cubs starters creg
|
| 7:40 |
: Lester, Hendricks, arrieta, lackey
|
| 7:40 |
: On Heyward’s liner, the exit velocity was 100.7 mph and the xBA was .559. Do you think that Maddon will let him start for game three seeing how he made solid contact today (very small sample size, I know).
|
| 7:41 |
: it’s more likely than it was a couple hours ago.
|
| 7:41 |
: Where does Kluber on short rest rate?
|
| 7:42 |
: Hard to say- in between Hendricks and Arrieta? We don’t have a lot to go on.
|
| 7:42 |
: Who is the Cubs #5 starter next year?
|
| 7:42 |
: hammell
|
| 7:43 |
: No Rondon, Strop, Edwards….Maddon sticking with Monty. Surprised?
|
| 7:44 |
: I think if Montgomery gets in trouble, he’ll get taken out.
|
| 7:44 |
: Yeah, so far no reason to remove him
|
| 7:44 |
: He got in that little jam but they wanted Santana hitting righty anyway
|
| 7:45 |
: Do you think Schwarber ever catches again? Or does Contreras + knee injury keep him from it?
|
| 7:46 |
: I think he’s done as a catcher.
|
| 7:46 |
: do y’all agree w/ notion that maddon’s decisions too cute by half? is that perception more a thing of the past?
|
| 7:46 |
: I think Maddon, overall, is a good manager. He could probably be better in some ways but the players love him and he’s not a complete moron. He gets an enthusiastically passing grade in my book
|
| 7:47 |
: Any cubs fan (I am one as well) that doesn’t want the DH is just living in the past at this point right?
|
| 7:47 |
: Nah, you can want whatever you want. But it is inevitable!
|
| 7:47 |
: Crazy that the cubs at one point had Guyer, Donaldson, and Archer all in their farm system under the previous regime
|
| 7:47 |
: I love that Guyer gets included here
|
| 7:47 |
: I agree with it. Maddon is very good at handling players mixing lineups over the course of a long season. I think he has gotten a little too cute in the playoffs, but players’ impact is much much bigger than the manager.
|
| 7:48 |
: Is Javy a better defender than Lindor?
|
| 7:48 |
: I don’t think so.
|
| 7:48 |
: Hard to imagine
|
| 7:48 |
: True or false: slow pace of play is to baseball as concussions/brain damage is to football?
|
| 7:48 |
: Brain damage will/would prevent people from playing the sport. That seems like the bigger problem
|
| 7:48 |
: And here’s Chapman for the four-out save
|
| 7:49 |
: Who is Hamell or Hammells. I only know of a Jason Hammel
|
| 7:49 |
: How do you get a player like Baez to slow it down and don’t expand the strike zone so much?
|
| 7:49 |
: I have to look it up every time I write about him.
|
| 7:50 |
: He’s always going to be aggressive, no matter what. But they’ve already got him to cut down on his swing after he has a strike or two
|
| 7:51 |
: If Cubs hold on, next game is the key, isn’t it? Kluber vs. Lackey in Game 4 screams advantage Indians, but Game 5 is Hendricks v. Bauer…
|
| 7:51 |
: I don’t mean to be dismissive! But, they’re all key. Every last one. Can’t assume anything no matter the starting pitcher(s). Kluber is unlikely to be that dominant again
|
| 7:52 |
: NYDailynews reports the players elected to go with Wahoo on the cap rather than the block C. Yuck.
|
| 7:53 |
: what record does rod carew hold for one of his batting titles?
|
| 7:53 |
: At least you get the explanation that players are superstitious. But next year they should no longer get the opportunity to make this decision in the first place
|
| 7:53 |
: I believe it is for mad hits.
|
| 7:54 |
: Chapman fans Ramirez at 103. To the ninth we go
|
| 7:54 |
: What does Jansen get as a FA?
|
| 7:54 |
: Something huge, like 4/$90m
|
| 7:54 |
: Not sure. 4/60?
|
| 7:54 |
: oh wow.
|
| 7:54 |
: Maybe we compromise at 4/$75m
|
| 7:54 |
: okay.
|
| 7:55 |
: Sounds like we have a deal
|
| 7:55 |
: Good doing business with you, Craig
|
| 7:55 |
: to the Dodgers? Rangers?
|
| 7:55 |
: Can you pitch yourself into a save situation if the runs are from inherited runners and charged to the starter? As in can it become a save situation when it wasn’t one to start out with?
|
| 7:55 |
: nope
|
| 7:56 |
: My dad always talks about how hard modern players throw. He said not a single pitcher on “The Big Red Machine” could throw 90. Is this true, or is he wrong?
|
| 7:56 |
: “Rob Dibble throws a baseball 100 m.p.h. ”
|
| 7:56 |
: Well that was a confusing answer on my part
|
| 7:56 |
: Wrong Reds!
|
| 7:56 |
: No, only guy to win batting title and hit no HRs.
|
| 7:57 |
: Your dad is correct that pitchers now are throwing way, wayyyyyyy harder. I bet some guys used to scrape 90, but 90 then was 100 now
|
| 7:57 |
: pretty sure it was mad hits, although that is interesting, too
|
| 7:57 |
: In game management is overrated.
|
| 7:57 |
: This is actually extremely true
|
| 7:58 |
: Fans put way too much weight on what those decisions truly mean
|
| 7:58 |
: Rosenthal reporting right now that Schwarber still isn’t cleared to play the field
|
| 7:58 |
: If Javy Baez had Schwarber’s plate discipline, he would be a 7-win player. Agree?
|
| 7:58 |
: 6 or 7
|
| 7:59 |
: vice versa for Schwarber with Baez’s defense.
|
| 7:59 |
: Am I the only one who thinks Chapman is less of a man because he chose not to be a starter?
|
| 8:00 |
: I can think of other things that make him less of a man
|
| 8:00 |
: I’ve heard people (read: my brother) say they like the Wahoo logo because it “refuses to bow down to political correctness.” Do people actually think that way?
|
| 8:00 |
: Heyward is a little taller, I think, but it looks like he stands 12-16″ further away from the plate than Rizzo.
|
| 8:00 |
: Have you been reading the news?
|
| 8:00 |
: Rizzo stands really close.
|
| 8:01 |
: We go to the bottom of the ninth! If they do it in under eight minutes, then we end just shy of four official hours
|
| 8:01 |
: Is this guy Thor in a racist hat?
|
| 8:01 |
: Heyward has gone back to St. Louis swing over the last couple months. Obviously hasn’t paid off.
|
| 8:02 |
: There is no way Don Gullet didn’t throw high 90’s
|
| 8:02 |
: Your dad is mostly right. Some of those guys (I’m thinking Soto and Nolan) could probably hit mid-90s on occasion, but they didn’t sit more than 88-89.
|
| 8:02 |
: How awesome would it be if Schwarber still looked like himself but moved like Baez.
|
| 8:02 |
: How lame would it be if they called it here on account of rain?
|
| 8:03 |
: That’s an edited player in video game Madden
|
| 8:03 |
: they won’t.
|
| 8:03 |
: If they did that I would quit FanGraphs
|
| 8:03 |
: Remember Giants-Cardinals in 2012?
|
| 8:04 |
: How big is home field advantage in the postseason?
|
| 8:04 |
: Same as in the regular season, basically — 50/50 –> 54/46
|
| 8:04 |
: This was surprisingly easy to find: last time Chapman gave up 4 runs was 8/15/2014, when he walked four straight to open the 9th, got pulled, and they all came around to score.
|
| 8:04 |
: Let’s do it again!
|
| 8:05 |
: How long does a guy have in a relief role before he is never considered a starter again? There was talk of Chapman being tried as a starter years ago. Same with Osuna in Toronto. Are those days gone, even for 21 year old Osuna?
|
| 8:06 |
: Think this is the best team the Cubs will have with this core? Going to be tough to find starting pitching as good as they have had this year but the offense will get even better.
|
| 8:06 |
: This Cubs team is one of the better teams in baseball history. As much as I think they’ll stay good for a while, you can’t really ever *expect* a team to play as well as this team has.
|
| 8:07 |
: Carlos Martinez was a reliever for a year and a half. If Osuna is a closer next year, it will be hard to transition him back, especially given how much money closeres receive in arbitration.
|
| 8:07 |
: Neftali Feliz tried to switch after 2.5 years. Didn’t work, got hurt
|
| 8:08 |
: I didn’t know Jeff was wanting the game to go longer
|
| 8:08 |
: I’d be happy to watch another two hours if it meant Chapman gives up 4
|
| 8:08 |
: Ryan Dempster became a starter again in his mid 30s. It needs to start with complete buy in.
|
| 8:08 |
: ^
|
| 8:08 |
: Derek Lowe is the best example.
|
| 8:09 |
: Does Guyer go for a 103mph HBP??
|
| 8:09 |
: It’s what I’m watching for!
|
| 8:09 |
: How long did Adam Wainwright relieve for?
|
| 8:09 |
: one year.
|
| 8:09 |
: Dempster switched back at 30-31
|
| 8:09 |
: Jeff Samardzijia switched to starting after 2.5 seasons in the bullpen with the Cubs
|
| 8:10 |
: Didn’t notice but a minute ago we passed the four-hour mark
|
| 8:10 |
: Smoltz closed for 3 years, right?
|
| 8:11 |
: Atkins just said Osuna is a reliever for good
|
| 8:11 |
: Contreras is going to dislocate his shoulder catching some of these fastballs
|
| 8:11 |
: I am so glad to not be a professional catcher
|
| 8:11 |
: Jeff, does the Chapmann being a terrible person thing completely taint the Cubs for you?
|
| 8:11 |
: He’s just one dude in an organization full of other dudes but it’s definitely not easy for me to look past it. It’s fairly gross
|
| 8:12 |
: You didn’t notice because you’re having such fun, Jeff.
|
| 8:12 |
: I was definitely much more aggravated in the fourth and the fifth
|
| 8:12 |
: If Perez reaches, do the Cubs warm someone up? Chapman’s been a little wild here
|
| 8:12 |
: This is just what he is
|
| 8:13 |
: Would you rather be a hockey goalie or a catcher?
|
| 8:13 |
: Goalie. At least I wouldn’t have to always catch the damn thing
|
| 8:13 |
: And we’re done!
|
| 8:13 |
: All right. That is going to do it for me. Thanks friends and Jeff.
|
| 8:13 |
: Perez grounds out. 5-1, final
|
| 8:13 |
: Thanks everybody. I can’t stare at this window one minute longer
|
| 8:13 |
: A live blog will return for Game 3 on Friday! Be well everyone!
|
Jeff made Lookout Landing a thing, but he does not still write there about the Mariners. He does write here, sometimes about the Mariners, but usually not.
Both soler and Contreras in the starting lineup.
Youngest world series starting lineup ever?
I bet that Bryant/Fowler/Heyward would be the tallest World Series outfield ever. Do it Joe!