Valentine, Triple Like

Stamford's own Bobby Valentine has been hired as new manager of the Boston Red Sox. The hiring ends a most miserable few months for Sox faithful and leaves us with a sweet idea for a release party. Bobby V's restaurant (where he invented the wrap) is located less than ten minutes from our home. Cyrus watched the news conference with us where an emotional Valentine handled questions well. It looks like his winter traffic duty days will be put on hold while he gets the Sox back in order. As we are in the editing phase of the book we will have to look for ways to include Valentine.

Houston, We Have Realignment

Yount Statue circa 2008 NLDS

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• Ryan Braun is the first Brewer MVP since Robin Yount won twice in the 1980s. A member of the first-place Milwaukee Brewers and signed through the year 2020, Braun finished ahead of Triple Crown threat Matt Kemp of the .500 Dodgers. Prince Fielder finished third as he heads out of town. The job to bat behind the 30-30 Braun will most likely fall upon a free agent like Derek Lee or all-star Rickie Weeks.
• As we edit our book, Bobby Valentine is close to becoming the Red Sox manager. The Stamford resident might get the job before our deadline to submit the book. Dale Sveum becomes the Cubs manager. Who knew when he was busy filling in for the Brewers 2008 playoff run that he'd become a hot commodity. Wally Backman is been bumped up to AAA Mets team.
• The sale of the Astros is complete and they will be moved to the AL giving each league 15 teams and making interleague play a daily part of the MLB schedule. The Marlins have a new look while the Blue Jays went back to their old look. A new CBA has been reached by MLB giving them 21 straight years of labor peace.
• Juniper and Cyrus are doing fantastic. Cyrus keeps improving his language and sense of humor while Juniper approaches her third week on planet Earth. Shira is a super-mom superhero.

Happy 100th Buck!

Today marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of Buck O'Neil. O'Neil played for and managed the Kansas City Monarchs. Buck was also a scout and the first African-American coach in MLB history. Joe Posnanski's book on Buck, The Soul of Baseball, is one of my favorite baseball books of all-time. It is chock full of O'Neils penchant for storytelling and his drive to keep the memory of the Negro Leagues history intact. When Shira and I visited Kansas City we visited the Negro League Baseball Museum which Buck helped establish and where he could often be found. O'Neil also played an important role in the induction of six Negro Leaguers to the Cooperstown Hall of Fame, yet that honor alluded him when the Hall opened its doors to 17 others (see picture). O'Neil did not cry foul yet was involved in the honoring ceremony. He passed away in 2004 at the age of 94 and was honored posthumously with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The Buck O'Neil Lifetime Achievement Award was presented by the Hall of Fame in his honor in 2008 and will be granted every three years. In 2011 it was awarded to former MLB exec Roland Hemond. Check out this video of Olberman and Buck to get an understanding of the class that Buck exuded throughout his lifetime.

Miami Marlins

Jon tells Dontrelle he won't ever win another game.

The Florida Marlins (owners of two World Championships but no division titles) are set to reveal their new uniforms tonight. They have also been involved in meetings with Albert Pujols and Jose Reyes. If they land Reyes the Mets can say hello to fifth place for a few seasons. Could that also signal a return to Boston for Hanley Ramirez? Ozzie Guillen is in town and it will be interesting to see how Marlins baseball plays out. When they've pursued a title they've been successful winning all of their playoff series in 1997 and 2003.

Juniper Hope

You have to love the smiles Juniper flashes...A week ago  we were preparing to meet up with the midwives in Norwalk, but Shira’s labor instantly quickened and before we knew there was little time before the baby was here! There was a brief moment while holding Cyrus and waiting for my parents where I couldn’t figure out how the situation just blazed by…in a moment of clarity I called for an ambulance. Shira, my biggest hero, knew the baby was coming while I was hoping the ambulance was coming. When the seven person crew arrived I finally calmed down a bit, but time was all a blur. The banter between the EMS crew was calming for me because I knew Shira and the baby were not in danger. In about 90 seconds they knew the baby would be born in our home and the firefighter receiving the baby would be catching his first newborn. The crew was very experienced at one point one of them turned to me and said, “You’ve got a great crew here.” Finally my parents arrived and I passed off Cyrus to them (he had watched most of Shira’s labor and in the days that followed did an impersonation).  Shira had about a dozen serious surges as we tried to turn the room into a delivery room. She finally rolled over to her back and gave birth to a baby girl. One of the first things she asked for was to get Cyrus, so I ran downstairs and told my parents we had a girl and grabbed Cyrus. He didn’t want to stay too long, but we would be on the move to the hospital soon. Shira and the baby were stabilized and she was brought safely downstairs. I was pretty dizzy as I never thought we’d have a girl (let alone in our own home). I handed Juniper to my mom as I quickly collected our bags which I had moved from the car to the basement. Our arrival at the ER was like a scene out of a movie and one I’ll never forget. There had to be about 50 people just staring at us as we walked in with a …newborn! After we settled into delivery room I began to call a few people, my mom mentioned Cyrus was talking about the moon and mentioned a Hope Street baby. I now knew what Juniper’s middle name would be! Some people go their whole life without a good story to tell. Juniper is only one week old, but she’s already got a great one.
From Lady Chandara:  a big big big congratulations to my amazing sister (and daughter) of the Craft, Shira  her husband Allie  and their son, Cyrus, on the new adition to their family, Juniper Hope, who decided hospitals are for wusses, that she didn't need no stinkin midwife, nurses or doctors (midwives...you know I love you!) and decided she wanted to be born on her mommy's comfy bed! An amazing story!

That House That Phat Albert Built

Busch Stadiums II & III in 2005

Albert Pujols most likely sealed a new deal after his 2nd Cardinals championship. It would seem unlikely that any amont of money would make him want to soil his St. Louis Legacy. Surely, the Cards will make him the highest paid first basemen (until Prince bolts Milwaukee). The Cards second title in New Busch got me to thinking... which current stadium has housed the most World Series titles? The Cards (2006) and Yankees (2009) each christened their new stadiums with a first season title. The Braves waved goodbye to Fulton County Stadium with a title in 1995 (is it just me or do the Rangers look like Braves impersonators?) Anyways, here is a list of the ten (!?!) stadiums that have been the home to the most titles (you'll notice Wrigley is not on the list):
Fenway Park- 6
Oakland-Alameda County- 4
Dodger Stadium- 4
Rogers Centre- 2
Busch Stadium III- 2
Citizens Bank Ballpark- 1
Yankee Stadium- 1
Pac Bell/AT & T-1
Comiskey Park II- 1
Kauffman Stadium- 1
Angel Stadium- 1

Cards in Seven

Some are calling it the greatest game ever!? Five errors, eleven innings, countless big hits. In the end, the Cards came back in the 9th and 10th before winning it on...a homerun by David Freese. Freese went from goat to hero in innings with a dropped popup followed by a triple and walkoff. He'll either become a flash in the pan or an all-star. In my opinion the Rangers are cooked and about to lose two in a row for the first time since August. Pujols will return and the Cards will coast at home tonight in a game made possible by Prince Fielders all-star homerun and lack of homeruns in the N.L.C.S. Game Seven here it comes!!!
Final Out 2011: David Murphy

Got the Motte!

Cardinals "Closer" Jason Motte and I are both Iona College Alum. However, any similarities end there. Rit took this pic of me in 2008 when I was helping Sgobbs out on the bench. I mostly helped out with stats and was an extra pair of eyes. It was a blast and I miss the coaching staff and talking baseball on a daily basis. As for the Series...the Cards have an early Game Five lead after losing 4-0 yesterday. Game Three included a record night from Pujols who went 5-6 with three homeruns. Lance Berkman went on record saying Albert was the best of all-time and better than the Babe who played in all-white league. The former Yank, Fat Elvis impersonator had a tremendous season and turned down a return to Texas with Rangers to play with Cards. Shira and I just looked over some previous World Series logos and are just taking it easy until the baby arrives!

The Rhodes Less Traveled

Arthur Rhodes is about to make his World Series debut after 20 major league seasons. He'll face Josh Hamilton in the top of the 8th of a 3-2 Game One moment. I've been going through baseball-reference the whole game. I noticed that Michael Young just turned 34 and has 2061 hits. He just had his 4th 200-hit season, so with five more solid seasons he'll give 3000 a run. And there is the out. Rhodes gets Hamilton to pop out. This bullpen has been unreal, how long will this last?

1979

This is the 39th  World Series in my lifetime! Just missed out on the Brewers joining the party, but seven errors in two games won't get you there. With the baby on the way it's a good thing I didn't have to deal with the temptation of flying to Milwaukee. The first Fall Classic I remember vividly was the 1979 edition. The once-proud Pittsburgh and Baltimore franchises played a classic and I spent weeks imitating Kent Tekulve's side arm delivery. I bought the "Pops" Pirate hat Cyrus is wearing just outside of Wrigley in 2000. I'll be rooting for the Rangers over the Cards and think they should take it within five. However, this is baseball so it's probable the Cards have one more magical Series in them. Cyrus was excitedly painting when I got home today. He was then singing and dancing to his new Yo Gabba Gabba Volume 3 CD.

Who would've thought that when St. Louis lost Adam Wainwright and the Rangers lost out on Cliff Lee that these two teams would square off in the 2011 World Series? Cliff Lee's 4-0 blown lead vs. Cards was the pivotal game that kept Cards alive.

Larussa makes it to his 6th Series, here's hoping he gets swept again. At his side is Mark Mcgwire, who I Hope doesn't win a title. Just heard that the all-time leaders for manager-player homers is Big Mac-Larussa first, Ruth & Huggins 2nd, and Pujols-Larussa third.

For the second year in a row a player will win a ring regardless of who takes the trophy. Bengie Molina played for Giants and Texas last year. While, Cards Arthur Rhodes played with Texas earlier.

While the Rangers celebrated on the field with their families and ginger ale, the Red Sox fried chicken and beer saga continues. What a debacle that has turned into.

Dirk Nowitzi will not be allowed to throw out first pitch. It has some foolishness to do with NBA lockout. Get a clue owners!

Family!

My ever growing family and wife!!! My nephew took this pic of us today. It looks like I won't have to turn down tickets to see the Brewers in the World Series. Cyrus loves visiting my hometown! He loves driving through the tunnel to get there. We are not to far away from the birth of our baby. Cyrus will be a big bro sooner than he thinks.

Suds Series Duds

Not looking good for the Brewers after Game Six first inning. Already trailing 4-0...ouch. That's eleven first inning runs in this series. After the '82 series I said, "Damn you Willie McGee." It looks like this year it'll be "Damn you David Freese." The good thing is its only the first inning so maybe the Cards will finally go cold and the Brewers will explode over the course of the next two games. That's a big "IF" As I'm writing this Corey Hart finally does something...leadoff homer! I'm hoping Larussa gets swept again in the World Series, I'm even more hopeful he doesn't even make it that far. Ron Darling just said a three-run lead means nothing in this ballpark. As I explained to Shira, this is the reason I wanted the Phillies in the NLCS, I knew I'd be very aggravated if they lost to the Cards. *UPDATE* Chris Narveson is in, let's see if the Crew can comeback from 4-1 deficit...No Cardinal starting pitcher has made it out of five innings...The Braves slump allowed the Cards to get in, the Phillies created their own demise by beating Braves to allow Cards into playoffs. **Update** Five homers in first two innings...Weeks and Lucroy each homer...it's 5-4 Cards... *UPDATEx3* Bott 3rd...9-4 Cards...not much fan, not much pitching...feels like a beer league softball game...is the gong rule in effect...I thought this was a new pitching era we are in?!? *Last Update* Barring a ridiculous comeback it looks like Rangers v. Cards. A very memorable run for Brewers halted.

Cruz Missle

I was on the phone for awhile with my dad as the Rangers were pummeling the Tigers 15-5. They return to the World Series as the Nelson Cruz blasts 6 homeruns and 13 RBI. Meanwhile, B-Hop just hurt his shoulder in another Philly Phlop. First, Phillies...then Eagles...now Hopkins. But back to the Rangers...this team has moved to the upper echelon for sure, especially now that they may even go after CC Sabathia. The Brewers look to stay alive vs. the Cards in Game 6 at home. What a flop last night was...today was more enjoyable. As Shira gets closer to deliver, Cyrus enjoyed a day at Nature Center Harvest Festival. He had a blast climbing, running, and hugging animals. *Update* Just realized Nelson Crus was traded by Mets, A's, and Brewers.

Power Rangers

A few random thoughts:
-A baby and a book on the way! The Brewers in the playoffs...can't complain!
-Speaking of the playoffs...it's cool to hear Brewers announcer Brain Anderson call the games with Darling and Smoltz...not so cool to see them trailing for two games now.
-One thing we all learned...don't pitch to Rangers Nelson Cruz in the 11th...he has two hrs and 7 RBI. Can you say A.L.C.S. M.V.P.
-Red Sox dysfunction continues...Theo leaves to try and end curse in Cubbie-land. Francona allegations along with beer and fried chicken in the clubhouse.
-Received my second Triumph check yesterday! Looking forward to the next editing phase. Really enjoyed the writing process and would love to do it again!

Suds Series, Game One

Wishing Princess Mommy A Happy Birthday!

The Brewers and Cardinals renew their rivalry in another phase. It started in the 1982 World Series, continued in the N.L. Central, and now re-emerges in the 2011 N.L.C.S. Yesterday, we missed the live action of the game, but for good reason. We threw an amazing birthday bash for Shira. When I spoke to our family and friends I mentioned I figured everyone would be giving up Week Five NFL and the day in between Yom Kippur and Columbus Day. Little did we know the Brew Crew would be scheduled for Game One. Cyrus et. all had a blast...the food, the venue, the DJ...all were excellent. It was so great to see everyone on this festive day. I got a few updates from Jon, Mike, and Greg. We caught a few of the final outs at Grandpa Rays. The Beer makers scored six runs on 22 pitches in the fifth inning. The game included homers from Braun and Prince. When they both homer the Crew is 28-9. Jerry Hairston, Jr., son of former major leaguer and grandson of Negro Leaguer, had two hits in the two-hole. The Cards, ironically, give me hope in the post-Prince days that will follow the playoffs. As long as Braun is healthy (and signed through 2020), and the Brewers have pitching (Gallardo, Greinke, Marcum) they should remain competitive in the NLC and able to lure some decent players. Game Two is moments away. I'm looking for another home victory as the playoffs move at a quick pace.

Lions and Tigers and Red Wings...Oh My!

Allie, circa 2000 at Comerica

In the USA Today, there was an article about the return of Detroit's economy and sports teams. While the Red Wings have been to the playoffs 20 straight years, the same cannot be said about the Tigers and Lions. The Lions (4-0) play Da Bears tonight, and the Tigers are up 3-2 in the 7th right now of Game Two of the ALCS. The Lions might actually be in a meaningful game on Thanksgiving. Meanwhile, we are almost at the halfway point of October and still waiting for the fall to show up. Cyrus enjoys watching baseball. He asked me at 10am today if we could watch the Brewers. He is very organized in his thoughts, laying out five or six things in order that he wants to do. Play baseball. Take a bath. Get dressed. Take a nap. Wake up. Read. Play baseball. He pointed at a picture of Earth and said, "That's where we live." **Update** Game Two is going ten! Ex-Red Sox galore...Francona in the booth, Beltre on Texas, Victor Martinez with Tigers. My dad is a Texas Rangers fan now. He likes Nolan Ryan's pitching philosophy and he's tired of pathetic Mets.

Here Come the LCS!

A strange thing happened on the way to the LCS...All Four division winners were outscored by their opponents yet they won enough games to move on. Game One of ALCS is currently on rain delay, the weather and Rangers have gotten to Verlander for a 3-0 lead. Tomorrow we will be throwing Shira a festive "excigen" birthday party. The Brewers-Cards will start during the game, the teams are already passing along nasty comments to each other. I'm really looking forward to the party, I love having family and friends get together like this. Maybe Cyrus will sing!

Tony Plush F Yeah

I remember exactly where I was in 1982 when the Milwaukee Brewers won their only other playoff series. White Plains with my walkman on listening to the 0-2 comeback vs. the California Angels. Tonight I'll remember exactly where I was when Tony Plush aka Nyjer Morgan  knocked in Carlos Gomez to advance the Brew Crew to their first NLCS. The Brewers become the first team to make the ALCS and NLCS in baseball history, but they will face their heated rival and 1982 World Series opponents, The St. Louis Cardinals. I had a feeling only Brewers or Phils would win tonight after Yankee defeat yesterday.  In two nail-biter games that included some pacing and edge of my seat sitting, the Brewers prevailed 3-2 in ten, while the Phils lost 1-0 in a game in which Chris Carpenter threw a gem against his friend Roy Halladay. The Brewers game had all the makings of a choke. The announcers reminded us that Axford had 43 straight saves , the Brewers were 83-1 when leading after nine...well they coughed up the lead. But with Greinke warming up and Gomez on first I finally started to feel confident. Morgan stepped up and I was hoping he'd beat Braun to the game winning punch. Fielder and Nyjer couldn't even speak afterwards, but Braun composed said this is what you play for, it's fun isn't it? I still can't get over this, with Philly loss they now have homefield advantage as long as they play. As I was getting aggravated about Brewers possible blowing game I went into Cyrus' room and gave him a kiss, I can't wait to watch playoff games with him! As my mom pointed out Shira will have to have another baby since each time she has been pregnant the Brewers have been in the playoffs!?

I Love the Red Sox, I Hate the Yankees

Belt Tre

Maybe the easiest headline in baseball history as Adrian Beltre knocks three homeruns to send the Rangers to their second straight ALCS. The magic finally ran out for the Rays who vaulted the Bosox just under a week ago. In Sox news, Theo will soon be talking to Cubbies to try and end that cursed streak. Phils just went up 3-0 on Ben Francisco pinch-hit homer, but now it's a battle of the pens. In what is the last four game day of the baseball season the Brewers and Tigers look to end their series. My guess is they both loss and that A.J. Burnett throws a gem. We are busy getting ready for Shira's birthday party. Cyrus wanted to party todayFeist's album arrived on vinyl today, she personally told me to play "Cicadas and Gulls" as the baby's first song.

Brewtober Time

Signs at Miller Park..."I've waited my whole life for this"...kid, you are ten years old how about me or the fat guy in the row behind you with the kielbasa? Robin Yount threw out the first pitch then went into Beast Mode. Another sign read "Brewers send those snakes on a plane". Ha. A much needed 9-4 victory. The sideline reporter asked Yount who he was rooting for because he briefly coached Arizona. Really? Do some better research. The Crew is up 2-0 for their first post season series lead ever, BUT they were once trailing 0-2 so i'll take nothing for granted here. Braun and Prince already have more hits than last post season, here's hoping they can keep producing. Meanwhile, my dad made his new Yankee Stadium debut. He went with Mike and the boys. The Yanks almost pulled it off as Tigers catcher slipped on wet Yankee logo. Cyrus enjoyed watching some of the game with me, while Shira inches closer to due date!

Bob McClure Blues

2B Jim Gantner batted .333 in the 1982 World Series.

The other night I was thinking about how most of the eight playoff teams had recently been to the World Series. Then I realized more specifically seven of the eight teams had arrived at the Fall Classic in the 2000's. the only team on the outside is the Milwaukee Brewers. Their last visit is the well-mentioned 1982 team. Harvey's Wallbangers were up three games to two in the '82 World Series (the last post season series lead until last night). Without Rollie Fingers though the team faltered as Darrell Porter, Keith Hernandez, and Willie Mcgee doomed the Brew Crew. I'm really pulling for a Brewers-Phillies LCS because I don't want to see anymore success for the Cards, they've had their fair share. Below is listed the most recent World Series appearance for the 2011 playoff contenders:
Texas Rangers 2010
Philadelphia Phillies 2009
New York Yankees 2009
Tampa Bay Rays 2008
Detroit Tigers 2006
St. Louis Cardinals 2006
Arizona Diamondbacks 2001
Milwaukee Brewers 1982

Homefield Beasts!

The Brew Crew fought hard for the home field advantage and it paid off early with a Game One 4-1 victory over Arizona. Yovani stymied the D'backs and Braun and Fielder had five of the Brewers eight hits. After spotting the Cards a field goal, the Phillies roared back for an 11-6 victory. But back to the Brewers, not too long ago we started to show Cyrus some Pixar movies. He's seen all three Toy Story movies, Finding Nemo, and Monsters, Inc. This morning Yahoo ran a story about Brewers Beast Mode connection to Sully and Mike Wazowski. The series continues today at 5pm and you can be sure i'll be donning some Brewers gear.

Rays of Light

Cyrus back in March with his Baseball Guys.

The Tampa Bay Rays might be onto the new market efficiency ...draft picks. As they watch free agents depart the Rays are hoarding picks and parlaying them into prospect studs. Arm after arm seem to be appearing on an as needed basis. Need someone for Game One of ALDS...sure try Matt Moore. In his second major league start Moore held the majors best hitting team to zero runs. Down 7-0 in the bottom of the 8th only 48 hours earlier, the Rays were easy 8-0 victors in the playoff opener. Kelly Shoppach became the latest entrant into baseball's roll call of little known players turned playoff legend. With a stress on player development and a dozen picks in the first 85 this past draft, it's no mystery why the Rays allow Kazmir, Crawford, and Pena leave. Youth has been served with the Rays, according to the TBS broadcast the last time they started a 30-year old pitcher was Jae Seo in 2007. This team should be competitive for years to come. Meanwhile, Yanks-Tigers only made it through one plus inning ruining each team's rotation and most likely assisting the Yankees.

Not So Amazin'

Mets history littered with mundane news

The first half day of MLB playoffs in the books and now a brief look at the 2011 fortunes of the leagues worst teams.
Reds- Votto is for real, but decimated pitching was no match for the Brew Crew and Cards. Bronson Arroyo led the league in homers allowed while graciously lending quotes for our book. A return to Fenway in the future for Arroyo?! Brandon Phillips made a lot of Twitter friends, but not enough to overtake Rickie Weeks for starting 2b spot on the all-star team.
White Sox- Ozzie Guillen trade was not the first time a manager has been shipped. Lou Piniella, Chuck Tanner, Gil Hodges, Joe Gordon have been dealt as managers. Possible landing spot for Terry Francona? Adam Dunn suffered from historically bad season that erased Rob Deer from the record books.
Mets- Since when is a 77-85 season for a large market team a successful season? Terry Collins had his team playing hard until the end, or in Jose Reyes case ...playing hard until he ran off the field in the first inning after bunting his way to batting title. The selfish Reyes most likely made his last appearance as a Met, and the franchise will be better served heading in the "Wright" direction without him.
A's- Possibly one of the biggest disappointments of the season. Highlight of the season arrived on newstand when Brad Pitt appeared in A's hat on the cover of SI to promote Moneyball. Much traveled franchise might soon be heading to San Jose.
Rockies- Just as Andy Reid knew Donovan McNabb was cooked, the Rox knew Ubaldo Jimenez has seen better days. Car-go had a tough start to the season and the Rox didn't have one of their blazing September finishes of seasons past.
Pirates- Flirted with .500 around all-star break, even made some deadline acquisitions to bolster competititness. End result...another sub .500 season. Here come the Steelers and Penguins.
Marlins- The Miami Marlins bring their two franchise World Series titles into a new stadium. Hanley Ramirez and Josh Johnson killed the hopes of many a fantasy owner. Logan Morrison tweeted his way into the Minor Leagues and Trader jack briefly returned to the managerial ranks.
Royals- Kansas City was featured in an SI article casting them as a dominant team in a season or two. Royals brought up several players who they hope will be a part of this future success. Melky Cabrera and one-time prospect Alex Gordon were among hit leaders.
Cubs- Starlin Castro led the majors in hits. Carlos Zambrano led the majors in coolers hit. Did this team drop the ball in hiring Cubs legend Ryne Sandberg?
Padres- Held onto Heath Bell so they could recieve more valuable draft picks when he signs elsewhere. Future Hall of Famer Trevor Hoffman rejoined franchise as Mariano Rivera surpassed him for all-time saves lead.
Orioles- 95 losses but one monumental win that sent Red Sox Nation reeling for days and months to come. Will this once proud organization ever win the AL East?
Mariners- Ichiro misses 200 hits for the first time. Dustin Ackley soon to be the new face of the franchise.King Felix and Michael Pineada anchor the staff.
Twins- Concussed and Injured, at least they won't get swept by the Yankees in the playoffs.
Astros- First 100-loss season in franchise history. Hunter Pence joins Roy Oswalt on Phillies team favored to win it all.

Wait 'Til Next Year

With just 36 hours since the double collapse of the Red Sox and Braves, the ax appears ready to fall in Boston. It is most likely that Terry Francona will NOT surpass Joe Cronin's franchise record for managerial wins. He could end up in Chicago with the White Sox. Chicago could be the new home of Theo Epstein as well. He may decide to end his second curse of the century and try to coax a title for the Wrigley Faithful. Here's a brief list of thoughts on the seasons of some of the non-playoff teams:
Red Sox Worst case scenario for us? Not at all, we've got massive re-writes in store which could only become worse if Yankees win it all. My guess is Papelbon will be gone and Sox might try to trade Crawford. Does he even want to show his face in Boston this winter?
Braves Last in all the buzz of Bosox collapse is how epically bad the Braves were down the stretch. Good thing they won in 1995 otherwise everyone's take on this team would be tremendously different. Whatever happened to Jason Heyward?
Giants San Fran truly shows what it means to "catch lightning in a bottle." Their win last year gives Brewers fans like myself hope that they could pull it off. I bet they wish they could re-do Beltran trade. Posey sparked debate about catcher protection, while Miguel Tejada may have played his last game.
Angels They hung around until the last week, but it was an uphill battle all season. Cy Young effort from Jered Weaver who has signed long term. A likely landing spot for Prince Fielder? They've lost out many times on free agent sweepstakes maybe it's finally their time.
Dodgers 82 wins for snake-bitten Don Mattingly. This guy can't catch a break.Two great seasons from Clayton Kershaw and Matt Kemp. Kershaw favorite to win Cy, Kemp almost wins Triple Crown and 40-40 season. If Braun and Prince split votes he could win an undeserving MVP.
Blue Jays Life in the AL East can't be fun for this 81-win team. Bautista seemed to fade after first half onslaught. A force to be reckoned with in years to come?!
Nationals All signs point up for the former Expos! Strasburg, Harper, Pujols or Prince?!? Davey Johnson at the helm in the nation's capital...a second place finish in 2012...hmmmm.
Indians In it for most of the season until injuries (read lack of depth) and acquisition of Ubaldo Jimenez sabotaged season. Franchise feels it will only get better in always winnable ALC.

Quiet Before the Playoff Storm

Inside Miller Park before Game Three of 2008 NLDS

Talk about a great advertisement before the playoffs...if the country isn't ready for some playoff baseball after Wednesday night they never will be. Just hours away from the start of the 2011 baseball season. There are many reasons that fall is my favorite season and this is one of them! This picture is from my 2008 playoff visit to Milwaukee. The Brewers have clinched home field for the NLDS. They 57-24 at Miller Park including Zach Greinke's 11-0. However, he won't pitch until Game 3 in Arizona when hopefully the Brew Crew has at least one win. In '08 Milwaukee was just happy to be there. This time around there are high expectations. Of course, Johnathan Axford hasn't blown a save since April, so I'm prepared for the law of averages and the worst. GM Doug Melvin was on the radio yesterday, I never realized the 1982 Brewers were the fourth highest paid team in the league. I won't let my Yankee friends in on that piece of info. USA Today ranks Milwaukee #2 out of the eight playoff teams. Yikes. Another kiss of death. Here are my thoughts on the teams involved using the newspapers ratings:
1. Phillies- From perennial doormats to five-time NLE champs. I've long stated this team goes as Rollins goes. However, late season acquisition Hunter Pence could be the breakout player of the playoffs now that he is the main cog in the Phils lineup. Mayberry kind of reminds me of Jayson Werth's first few Phillie seasons. If the rotation performs the way they have all season, it's hard to disagree with the experts that it's their World Series to lose.
2. Brewers- Ryan Braun ranks #10 all-time on the list of most homeruns in first five seasons. Prince Fielder is #11. It would be great to see the Crew take it in Prince's walk year. Braun is signed through 2020 and the rotation is solid so hopefully there are a few more chances for me to fly out to Milwaukee for some playoff baseball. Weeks, Hart, Betancourt will need to provide some fireworks on a steady basis. K-Rod to Axford...fingers crossed!?!
3. Rangers- No Cliff Lee, no MVP-type season from Josh Hamilton, No Vlad Guerrero. But Rangers are back in the playoffs. They won't sneak up on anybody this season. They have a remade pen, Mike Napoli, Kinsler, Cruz, and Nolan Ryan's pitching philosophy. Don't mess with Texas!
4. Rays- The Legend of Longo. I traded Verlander in fantasy for Longoria and Prince. My team was in last place and remained out of it. Longoria's home run was straight out of fantasy, now if only Rays fans would show up for some playoff games. Maddon is a genius! A-rod payroll = $32 mil. Rays payroll = $42 mil. While Manny and Sox watch, Damon adds to his Cooperstown plaque.
5. Yankees- When the Bombers won in '09 we all knew they were the best team, but most agree they are not the best this year. However, they are the Yanks and have won it all with less than 90 win teams.  If they should outslug everyone and win another, I like many Yankee haters will be disappointed. Another Yankee title will lead to massive rewrites of this book. A Diamondbacks-Yankees ten year reunion will be unwatchable for me. Unless Kirk Gibson can pinch hit and homer off of Mariano.
6. Cardinals- Damn you Tony Larussa, Damn you Albert Pujols, Damn you Willie Mcgee! If the Brewers and Cards meet in NLCS it won't be there first playoff battle. The two teams met in the 1982 when I watched Gorman Thomas foul off about hundred balls before succumbing to Whitey Herzog's Cards. A team that should get swept in first round but will most likely be a hard out.
7. Tigers- I'm glad Verlander goes into playoffs with a recent loss. I'm convinced he will lose twice to Yankees. Would love to see him dominate while 2003 Marlin Miguel Cabrera goes wild on Yankees sorry staff. Valverde is another reliever without a blown save, I'm sure the Yankees will him at least once.
8. Diamondbacks- A wonderful worst to first story. But they are playing my favorite team so they won't get any fan interest from me. Built on pitching and D they will most likely beat Brewers or take them to five.

A "Nation" Mourns

Well it appears the Red Sox fortunes have gone full circle. As a matter of fact one could probably say they have a head start on last century. After early century dominance in the 1900's we all know the Sox went into a tailspin after trading the Bambino. A wretched 9-20 September has overshadowed the Atlanta Braves equally bad collapse. With each ending like this Gene Mauch and/or the 2007 Mets move further from memory. This certainly doesn't make writing our book any easier. Just submitted some fun sidebars and glad we did so before Epic fail because I'm not sure I would've had the energy to do. In a strange coincidence our book has been posted on Amazon! We are in the editing stage but it's awesome to see the release date of March 1, 2012. Cyrus knows I wrote a book and can't wait for him to see it. As for the Sox, maybe they'll make a run for CC Sabathia?! He will option out of his contract. As we were watching it unfold I mentioned that this was the best regular season day and Tim Kurkjan went a step further by saying it on TV afterwards. This is undoubtedly the greatest day in MLB regular season history. Would love to pitch the book for this day and the events leading up to it...

Epic Fail.

When the Brewers visited Boston back in June I considered the thought that this could be a World Series preview. After all, in 2009 we saw Phils-Yanks in regular season only to view them in the Fall Classic in October. Well who would've thought the Brew Crew would make the playoffs and not the Sox. It looks like Yovani will be starting Game 1 of LDS vs. the Arizona Diamondbacks. I'm hoping for Rays-Tigers and Brews-Phils in LCS...it'll probably be a ten year anniversary of D'backs and Yanks. In 2009, Shira was pregnant with Cyrus and we drove down to Philly to catch Game 1 of LDS on Yom Kippur. This time around lots of the excitement took place on Rosh Hasanah. Shira has been learning how to use her iPad while Cyrus is now in his big boy bed. We are so proud of him! At the deli last night he was saying, "Go Phillies"!

Wild Card Wednesday

Here come the LDS! But not after the most thrilling day of regular season baseball ever. With 8 games of significance and two dramatic endings on the final day I'm almost ready to forgive Selig for the steroid era. As the Red Sox entered a rain delay they did so knowing the Rays trailed the Yanks 7-0. However, the Rays chipped away as the Triple-A Yanks played. Dan Johnson entered the game to Safety Dance but proceeded to hit a home run to send it to extra innings. As has been the case for much of this summer of book writing, Jon, Rich and I followed the game on our FB page. So we were not stunned when play resumed in Baltimore and the Red Sox choked the season away. In what will most likely be his final game with Boston, Papelbon struck out the first two before pitching Orioles batting practice. Carl Crawford, there's irony for you, failed to make the catch or throw to keep the game tied. Less than ten minutes later, Evan Longoria capped off the comeback with an Epic homer for the ages. Too bad the stadium wasn't packed. With zero playoff match ups set for the ALDS at the start of the night  we now know the Rays will play Texas and Yanks will host Verlander and Tigers. Meanwhile, in the N.L. to much less fanfare from us, the Phillies finished an unnecessary comeback to eliminate the Braves. Atlanta and Boston are now brothers in 2011 misery. Of course, the Brewers made life easier for themselves by winning against the Pirates. They didn't waste the game 162 start by Zack Greinke and prevailed to earn home field advantage over the Diamondbacks and avoid Phils,who get the Cards, in first round. Ryan Braun  played on Rosh Hasanah and Jose Reyes didn't, but anyone who wastes a moment on that story tomorrow is missing the point of this unheard night of baseball. Somebody needs to write a book about this night. of night in baseball. Hmmmmmm....

Clinched!

The Brewers became the first team in MLB history to win a division in both leagues (AL East in '82 & NL Central '11). It's a real thrill to have followed them through both. 29 years...wow that's some wait. From Yount to Braun I've seen it all. Braun came up huge again tonight with leaping catch for double play then clutch homerun. Matt Kemp might have near triple crown and 40-40 but Braun is going to playoffs with Prince, Plush, Weeks, Yovani, Grienke, Axford, and K-Rod! It was very cool how the team watched the Cards-Cubs game with the fans then celebrated afterwards. I felt a wave of nostalgia listening to them in '82 at the bowling alley comeback vs. Angels. I went to Milwaukee in '08, but this time around I'm more hopeful because of the pitching. All right Brewers fans get out your goggles! When I was ten they made it to the World Series can't wait to see how this turns out.

Magic Number?!?

Who would've thought the Brew Crew would have the lowest magic number (11) at this point. only this weekend did I come to the realization that it's looking pretty good for the Brewers. Ryan Braun has taken the batting average lead. He's closing in on 30-30 (27 hrs) and 100 runs and RBI. Here's hoping the pitching, health, and hitting can keep up for some more...

Irene Interruption

Our annual trip to Citizens Bank wasn't meant to be. With Shira being pregnant we were looking to unload the tickets. However, mother nature (who shook things up with an east coast earthquake this week) has Hurricane Irene heading our way. Yesterday the Phillies called us to tell us the game is moved to Saturday night. In the meantime, Rit, Jon, and I are finishing the book up. Jon just informed me that we got Bill "Spaceman" Lee to do the afterwards! Meanwhile, my Brew Crew has a 9.5/10 game lead and they landed on the cover of SI! Hopefully, the weather isn't as bad as it sounds. Looking forward to this fall classic and even more important Cyrus' new sibling!

Bierbraurers!

What an exciting summer! Season 24 has just concluded and  it has been busy, busy, busy. For starters, Shira is in her third trimester and Cyrus awaits his sibling. However, I think Cyrus believes the child will be his size at birth. Rit, Jon, and I have about 15,000 more words to wrap up the Red Sox book due out next spring. We visited Fenway in the spring for some research and are thrilled at the way the book is turning out. Meanwhile, my Brew Crew is in the midst of a 20-3 run. I'm sure by pointing that out they'll cool down, but that's bound to happen regardless of what I think or hope. They are currently up 7.5 but I've seen plenty of epic collapses in baseball to know no lead is safe. Ryan Braun (.327) is second in batting and Prince is second in RBI (92). They are combined for 50 homeruns, let's hope they stay healthy. Gallardo (13), Greinke (12), Marcum (11), and Wolf (10) have led the way on the hill.

All In!

The night of the all-star game was a big one for the Brew Crew. While Ryan Braun was injured and didn't start Rickie Weeks and Prince Fielder did so. Prince hauled in the MVP when he became the 1st Brewer to homer in the all-star game with his towering three-run shot. Fielder may be playing in his final season with the Brewers, but they are clearly making a run for it. Moments after the all-star game the Brewers (tied for first at 49-43 with those damn Cards) sent two players-to-be-named later to the Mets for K-rod. With just a one game lead over the surprising Pirates, the Brewers have plenty of opposition for the NLC. At the half way point, Jose Reyes and Adrian Gonzalez  lead each league at .354. Prince has 22 homers and 72 RBI, while Jose Bautista has 31 homers while batting .334. A second straight "Year of the Pitcher" seems to be happening again. Jered Weaver (1.86) and 12-win Jair Juurgens (1.87) both have sub-2.00 ERAs. Verlander (12) and Sabathia(13) are also having excellent seasons.  Reyes has 124 hits and 15 triples, but the biggest mystery is whether or not he will remain with the Mets. Play resumes tonight with 19 teams either in first or less than ten games out, it should be an excellent end of the season.

Prince or Bust!?

Prince Fielder leads the league in RBI and XBH this has propelled the Brew Crew to a Major League best 27-9 record since May 9th. The Brewers moved into first place last night, and we get ready to go see them take on the Bosox at Fenway this weekend.

Home Brew

The Brewers are currently in 2nd place in the NLC. They have the best home record in baseball at 21-7. Yovani Gallardo leads the majors with 8 wins and Ryan Braun leads MLB in all-star votes. While it seems likely Prince will leave in the off-season, Braun is signed thru 2020!

Phanatic Edges Chicken

The Brewers have won two straight from the Phiilies, but the Phils scored a major win off the field as the Phillie Phanatic was named Top Mascot in sports. The Phillies have been one of the only teams to fill their park this season. As you can tell by this picture Cyrus can't wait to see them in person this August. Meanwhile, the Celtics have waited until the end of Games 1 & 2 to defeat the Knicks. On Sunday, Ray Allen drained a three to win and last night the heroics went to KG. Detroit Red Wings are up 3-0 in Round One vs. the Phoenix Coyotes. The past few years my teams have all played in April-June. Will it happen again this year?!?

Eight Years

Almost two years after Shira and I met we visited San Francisco in 2003. On the trip I proposed to her on the Golden Gate Bridge. Afterwards we went to see the Giants play. Here are a couple of pictures from our trip. That's me out at McCovey Cove and Shira in Golden Gate Bridge Park. In 2011, The Giants are defending champs and Cyrus is enjoying the start of his baseball obsession. We enjoyed listening to him sing Happy Birthday to me! Looking forward to THIS vacation and more memories!

Jimmy Rollins, Nice to Meet You!

As I write this the Phils are winning behind Roy Halladay looking to get to 8-3 & Prince Fielder homered moments ago to give Brew Crew a 4-0 lead as they try to get above .500 for the first time this season. So far Cyrus has seen two Ryan Howard at-bats and both resulted in a homerun. On Saturday he was at Mike and Matt's game shouting "Go Phillies" as he sat with Grandma Diane. Shira has been teaching him the Star Spangled Banner & Take Me out to the Ballgame. I gave him a Jimmy Rollins and Ryan Howard action figure to calm him down and to play with. He read his baseball book to Jimmy Rollins & I get a laugh everytime he refers to the figure as Jimmy Rollins. Rollins and Howard have had a soothing effect on him (so far).

Opening Day Soon!

Throughout this past week I've been telling Cyrus that baseball is starting soon. I taught him how to catch and he's been mesmerized by his little baseball figurines and felt-field. He has been convinced that he's going to the game after his nap. Opening Day '11 was yesterday for the Brewers and I arrived home to see Cyrus in the outfit pictured. The Brew Crew had the lead all game until the walk-off by the Reds. Today the Phils trailed 4-0 and pulled out the win in the ninth. I wonder if this is a sign of things to come for each team. Either way, Cyrus appears hooked by baseball.

Zuckerberg Rookie Card!

This photo was taken by me in 1993. It shows off some of Mark Zuckerberg's baseball skills at the time. Jon wrote about his signed baseball card I've kept over all the years! Go figure. The article appears on Huffington Post.

Circle Me Bert!

Today the 2001 HOF class was announced and Roberto Alomar and Bert Blyleven were welcomed to the Hall. Blyleven slowly reached the required 75%, while Alomar rec'd 90% on his 2nd year ont he ballot. Next year it'll be nice to see Lee Smith, Larkin, and Jack Morris join them on a ballot that is light with any surefire first balloters. Frank Thomas joins the ballot in 2014 (with Maddux, Glavine & Jeff Kent). The pictures with the post were taken from a Jays game in 2007 in which Big Hurt homered twice to reach 507 and 508.

1/1/11 Duck!! Incoming New Year!?!

In 2001 Shira and I met! It was spring (just after start of the baseball season :) and by the end of the summer we took a road trip to Cleveland. These are a few photo relics from the trip from our pre-digital days. I will try harder than the past few years to upload pics and comments. Granted, family, friends, and Cyrus are probably the only people who will ever read this. The poor Tribe is back to their losing ways and should be especially dreadful as Shira and I celebrate ten years of having met! Interestingly enough this is the 2nd straight New Years I've been trying to organize the basement. This time into a playroom for Cyrus. Time is going too quickly?!?