Master Index of Archived Threads


Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Edgy MD Sep 05 2013 12:08 PM

Red Sox, stunningly, are up 18-4 on Detroit. Detroit's a great team, but if you can exploit their defense or get into their bullpen, they can be beat, or, if you're the Red Sox, CLOBBERED.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Sep 05 2013 12:13 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Sox need to keep it up coming to MFYs for a 4-gamer starting tonite. That we'll be trying hard to beat Cleveland works against my MFY Hating, so we ought to be rooters for Tampa (In Anaheim) and Baltimore (hosting the White Sox) in the meantime.

Edgy MD Sep 05 2013 12:16 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

"Mets get a day off in Cleveland." Can't imagine that sentence has been typed a lot before this week. Rooting for Tampa, Boston, and Baltimore will be no problem ---- feels familiar. Hopefully opening up the taps on Detroit not only ups the Boston morale, but allows them to rest their best bats and bullpen arms and come at the Yankees fresh.

Ceetar Sep 05 2013 12:28 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Edgy MD wrote: Red Sox, stunningly, are up 18-4 on Detroit. Detroit's a great team, but if you can exploit their defense or get into their bullpen, they can be beat, or, if you're the Red Sox, CLOBBERED. I'm confused. Is it Wednesday again?

Edgy MD Sep 05 2013 12:37 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Or I got a second-hand report and misrepresented it.

Edgy MD Sep 05 2013 06:16 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Today's actual Red Sox taking on the Gothams and up 2-0. Ivan Nova takes 82 pitches to get through three innings.

Edgy MD Sep 05 2013 06:45 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

This guy calling the game for Boston is great. He sounds like somebody you meet in a deli arguing about how to make potato salad.

Edgy MD Sep 05 2013 06:51 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Big whiff of Ichiro with two in scoring position and the Sawx get out of it. Victorino leads off the next inning and homers to put the Bostons up 4-2. Best radio commercial: "Baseball's getting into the swing again here in Boston. And you know what that means --- stocking up on your favorite Little Debbie snack cakes!" "Getting into the swing"? It's September.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Sep 05 2013 06:55 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

MFYs also have a Little Debbie snack-cake radio spot. "They lead the league in taste!" or some shit.

Edgy MD Sep 05 2013 07:03 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Sawx go up 5-2 and have the bags juiced as they chase Nova.

Frayed Knot Sep 05 2013 07:07 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

The Sawx could totally break the game wide open right here (but Stephen Drew Ks). The game is just over two hours in and it's already the top of the 5th!!. In the old days, the results of this one would already be certain to miss the morning editions of your local paper. And now Girardi signals for his 17th pitcher of the game so far.

Edgy MD Sep 05 2013 07:56 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Girardi totally managing like his season/job is riding on this game.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Sep 05 2013 08:28 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Jesus Christ.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Sep 05 2013 08:57 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Well, sure the MFYs had a 6-run 7th to take the lead,. Then with 2 out, 0 on in the 9th, the Sawx rally vs. MarianLOL (single, SB, error, single) and tie it at 8-8.

Frayed Knot Sep 05 2013 09:21 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

BoSox break out their secret weapon in the 10th inning ... Joba. 9-8 Sox, Boston still batting, 1-on/1-out

John Cougar Lunchbucket Sep 05 2013 09:25 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Joba taken out of the game, then ejected for arguing a strike call.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Sep 05 2013 09:40 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Put it in the books. Red Sox blow a 5-run lead but still win in 10.

Gwreck Sep 05 2013 11:47 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

With losses by Oakland, Tampa, and the MFYs, the Kansas City Royals pick up a game on everyone. They now have 12 games in a row against Detroit and Cleveland, sitting just 4.5 out of a wild card spot. It's only been 28 years since their last playoff appearance.

Frayed Knot Sep 06 2013 07:18 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

The only other 'winner' last night in the AL pennant/WC race was the Orioles by virtue of it being their turn to beat up on the ChiSox. By winning they picked up a half-game on idle Cleveland and a full game on Oakland, Yanx, & Tampa The best part of the Yanx/Sawx last night (I was in and out of the game so only saw part of it) may have been Soriano walking w/one out in the 9th right after Mariano's blown save. So, sitting on 1st as the winning run, he promptly gets picked off ... except that Boston messes up the play giving him a free pass to 2nd. And now that he's been given a reprieve and is sitting in scoring position with one out ... he just as quickly gets picked off of 2nd!! - and this time the Sox infield did not mess it up (although they tried). He may lead MLB in RBIs since being traded to the Yanx (that's right, more than Miggy) but he's still a dumb-ass. Final time of the game: 4:32

John Cougar Lunchbucket Sep 06 2013 09:11 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

LOL MFYs. To hear Francessa's opening monologue today was to vomit projectilley. How many times has it come down to a Big Game fuh ANDY Pettitte, be in Bawston, be it... whoevah, whetha it's Octobah or July, Big Spot...

John Cougar Lunchbucket Sep 07 2013 03:18 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

MFYs clobbered for the 3rd straight game, Jeter leaves with injury ( I think). Meantime the O's rally for 2 in the bottom of the 10th to beat the White Sox.

Frayed Knot Sep 07 2013 03:41 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

After all the games the Yanx snuck away with earlier in the season while they were hardly scoring anything, it's nice to see them lose three straight despite putting up 8, 8, and 9 runs (still 8 games over .500 with a negative-2 RS/RA differential). Mike Napoli hit like 7 more HRs today, plus I think his beard grew at least another half foot. One more between these two teams tomorrow night (and can you believe it's the ESPN game?!?!) and then another series next weekend in Fenway.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Sep 08 2013 06:34 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Frayed Knot wrote: After all the games the Yanx snuck away with earlier in the season while they were hardly scoring anything, it's nice to see them lose three straight despite putting up 8, 8, and 9 runs (still 8 games over .500 with a negative-2 RS/RA differential). Mike Napoli hit like 7 more HRs today, plus I think his beard grew at least another half foot. One more between these two teams tomorrow night (and can you believe it's the ESPN game?!?!) and then another series next weekend in Fenway. My schedule says this is an afternoon game.

Ceetar Sep 08 2013 08:32 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: Frayed Knot wrote: After all the games the Yanx snuck away with earlier in the season while they were hardly scoring anything, it's nice to see them lose three straight despite putting up 8, 8, and 9 runs (still 8 games over .500 with a negative-2 RS/RA differential). Mike Napoli hit like 7 more HRs today, plus I think his beard grew at least another half foot. One more between these two teams tomorrow night (and can you believe it's the ESPN game?!?!) and then another series next weekend in Fenway. My schedule says this is an afternoon game. well yeah, this way they're going against the NE, Buffalo and Jets games, and not the Giants.

Frayed Knot Sep 08 2013 12:09 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Yeah, my bad on the game time. Yanx/BoSox was yesterday's FOX GotW, will be next Saturday's FOX GotW, and will be next Sunday's ESPN GotW, but they are allowing the nation to see the Dodgers & Reds tonight.

Frayed Knot Sep 09 2013 10:19 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

- Nice of Tampa to win an actual game on Sunday - their 5th over the last 15 games. - Oakland has taken over the West so currently it's Texas & Tampa sitting in the WC spots. Cleveland and Baltimore are 2 & 5 games behind those teams; the Yanx another half-game back, and the Royals a game behind that. - I've pointed out the Yanx rather easy sked through the end but Cleveland might have it even better: KC - ChiW (4) - KC - HOU (4) - ChiW (2) - MINN (4) - Yans get the Orioles starting tonight. Rays & Red Sox starting tomorrow, but the Sox have built up enough of a lead where they can take a hit here. A's are at Twins while the Rangers host the Pirates.

Gwreck Sep 09 2013 11:41 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

The Royals played Detroit this weekend and got shellacked, 16-2 on Friday; but won on both Saturday and Sunday. The series they start in Cleveland tonight is huge for them.

G-Fafif Sep 09 2013 11:45 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Frayed Knot wrote: while the Rangers host the Pirates. I keep trying to rationalize the scheduling of stray Interleague series in September is no different from some random matchup between AFC and NFC teams in December, but I'm not quite buying. PIT at TEX is just weird on September 9, and will be for years to come.

Mets – Willets Point Sep 09 2013 01:43 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Best radio commercial: "Baseball's getting into the swing again here in Boston. And you know what that means --- stocking up on your favorite Little Debbie snack cakes!" "Getting into the swing"? It's September. My son's been critical of the untimeliness of that commercial since about June.

HahnSolo Sep 09 2013 01:46 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

I thought the best snack for watching baseball were Wise potato chips.

Edgy MD Sep 09 2013 01:48 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Best radio commercial: "Baseball's getting into the swing again here in Boston. And you know what that means --- stocking up on your favorite Little Debbie snack cakes!" "Getting into the swing"? It's September. My son's been critical of the untimeliness of that commercial since about June. You know the radio guys are all, "Let's not suggest that they update the spot, lest it start a bigger conversation." Keep those checks coming, guys.

Benjamin Grimm Sep 09 2013 01:49 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

HahnSolo wrote: I thought the best snack for watching baseball were Wise potato chips. I've heard that it's peanuts and Crackerjack.

Mets – Willets Point Sep 09 2013 01:55 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Best radio commercial: "Baseball's getting into the swing again here in Boston. And you know what that means --- stocking up on your favorite Little Debbie snack cakes!" "Getting into the swing"? It's September. My son's been critical of the untimeliness of that commercial since about June. You know the radio guys are all, "Let's not suggest that they update the spot, lest it start a bigger conversation." Keep those checks coming, guys. "Who do you call when your windshield's busted?"

Edgy MD Sep 09 2013 02:02 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Now I want to hear a "Pop the cork, fingers snappin'" Foxwoods spot.

Edgy MD Sep 09 2013 02:03 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

And the only answer to that temptation is to give in to it. [youtube:3r0vw8c7]8PHxnuoEpIo[/youtube:3r0vw8c7]

Ceetar Sep 09 2013 02:07 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Edgy MD wrote: And the only answer to that temptation is to give in to it. [youtube]8PHxnuoEpIo[/youtube] didn't need the youtube, that one triggered the memories as soon as you mentioned it. Haven't listened as much but it seems like Foxwoods no longer sponsors the turning point of the game contest on WFAN.

Frayed Knot Sep 11 2013 11:13 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Sucky day yesterday as not only did the Yanx win but Tampa, Texas, Baltimore, Cleveland, and Oakland all lost. Only KC won among the other contenders, and only because they were playing Cleveland so someone had to win. Just goes to show you how much an outlook can improve or darken as the result of one day. Royals & Indians going at it again this afternoon. 3-2 KC early on. And if Cleveland is going to beat us and suck against everyone else (4-7 recently not including the Met series and 1-7 vs the Yanx this season) then I'm rooting for the Royals to kick their asses out of there. Pitt at Texas also a day game today. Soriano, who hit 2 HRs last night, now has 15 HRs in just 170 ABs since the trade to the Yanx - as opposed to his [u:2g0yle8o]17 in 362[/u:2g0yle8o] for the Cubs before the deal. IOW his rate didn't just increase but has just about doubled. He also leads MLB in both HRs & RBIs since the date of the trade and only Cano has more HRs for the Yanx over the whole season. I hate when that happens and some version of this seems to happen to them a lot.

Lefty Specialist Sep 11 2013 11:46 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

If they get into the playoffs, their season will have been saved at various points by the likes of Lyle Overbay, Mark Reynolds, Alfonso Soriano, Vernon Wells and Travis Hafner, none of which anybody would have given a dime for before the season started.

Frayed Knot Sep 11 2013 01:13 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Lefty Specialist wrote: If they get into the playoffs, their season will have been saved at various points by the likes of Lyle Overbay, Mark Reynolds, Alfonso Soriano, Vernon Wells and Travis Hafner, none of which anybody would have given a dime for before the season started. Those guys are 2nd (Soriano), 3rd (Overbay), 4th (Hafner) and 5th (Wells) on the team in HRs with a combined total of 52 Only Reynolds isn't among the team leaders but he's only been on the team for 20 minutes and is inexplicably hitting .300 after .215 w/Cleveland Royals beat Indians again, so Cleveland falls into a tie w/the Yanx but KC climbs up to within a half-game

Frayed Knot Sep 11 2013 09:23 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Same shit in the AL races today as yesterday except that Oakland was nice enough to win. As a result, the Yanx leap over Balt & Cleveland and are just one game behind fast fading Tampa for the 2nd WC spot and three games behind Texas. And they STILL have a negative RS/RA ratio!!

Mets – Willets Point Sep 11 2013 09:46 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Fucking Orioles.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Sep 11 2013 10:13 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Eh. They tried, and still a 4th game tomorrow. Put a run up and the tying run on vs. the great and powerful Mariano in the 9th Key moment was a DP that saved Andy in the 6th, and an Overbay weak infield single driving in the winner. Play that game 10 times and the O's win 8.

Frayed Knot Sep 12 2013 07:11 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: Play that game 10 times and the O's win 8. Which has been the story with the Yanx all year - that's how they got to 8 games over .500 with a negative run differential. Orioles out-hit the Yanx 13 - 6 last night but, after the first Yanx run came as the result of no hits, the remainder came via HR, HR, HR, and 3B+1B I keep waiting for their fans to give back wins like these since many of them were adamant about wanting a team that hit fewer HRs, played more 'small ball', and gave 'some of the kids' a chance. Hey shitheads: - how well did those replacement players and all that small ball shit work out during the first 2/3 of the season? Turns out that .215 slap-hitters and bunters with no power don't create as many runs teams that hit 200+ HRs per year ... Who knew? - how much does it bug you that ARod's return has been one of the keys to the recent surge while Jeter's return meant nothing even before it ended for the 4th and final time? - how were those "kids" (many of them 26 years old) once you got a look at them? Did you REALLY think the next Jeter/Posada/Pettitte/Mariano/Bernie were just sitting down there in Scranton or Trenton waiting to rush to the rescue? - and how is this desire to get younger taste considering that they guys you added this year that actually mattered are mostly over 35 and some of them are signed beyond this year as well?

Frayed Knot Sep 13 2013 07:57 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Fuckin' Orioles! After leaving runners all over the bases in the 7th, they get a 2-out, 3R game-tying HR in the 8th ... only to blow it again in the 9th. - After the HR, Buck brought in his closer Jim Johnson in the 9th in a tie game (OK, no problem there) but he starts it off by giving up a leadoff hit to Brendan Ryan. WHO? Brendan Ryan, that's who; a guy the Yanx picked up for his glove about 20 minutes before the Wednesday's game after Jeter's magic was somehow unable to overcome his latest injury; Brendan Ryan, late of Seattle & St Louis, who is hitting a cumulative under .200 [u:2bafqaqd]SINCE THE BEGINNING OF 2012[/u:2bafqaqd], a span of nearly 700 ABs. - So up comes another non-hitter in the form of catcher Chris Stewart ... who bunts it right back to pitcher Johnson ... who has tons of time to get the force and maybe even a DP it's bunted so poorly, ... if only his throw to 2nd hadn't missed the bag by about 18 feet. - the next batter Granderson, who had HR'd earlier, also bunts, this time successfully bringing up ARod ... but it doesn't matter what ARod does because Johnson Wild Pitches the winning run home!! So the Yanx cough up a 3-run lead in the 8th and do nothing right in the 9th except get a hit from a .180 schlub who's career in pinstripes can be measured in hours, and yet they win the fucking game anyway. Yanx would actually be tied for a WC spot today had Tampa not decided to finally win a game last night. As it is they sit one game behind Tampa and three in back of Texas. Indians are 1/2 in back of the Yanx with KC & Balt a full game in back of the Injuns. Yanx @ Boston this weekend. Cleveland @ Chisox KC @ Detroit Baltimore @ Toronto Oakland @ Texas (A's lead by 3.5) TB @ Minnesota

HahnSolo Sep 13 2013 08:17 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

You didn't point out that Machado had a HR taken away from him in the 8th by noted defensive ace Alfonso Soriano. Well if Tampa wants to avoid an epic collapse (they're almost there), they better knock the Twinkies around this weekend. Cleveland also has a White Sox team that has all but given up. And I am sure the Red Sox would love nothing more than to beat up on Yankee pitching again this weekend. I'm still desperately clinging to the idea that we can keep the MFYs out of any sort of postseason, but I'm losing that faith each day.

Frayed Knot Sep 13 2013 07:47 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

* Sox jump ouit to a 4-run lead in the 1st but then stop scoing * Yanx chip away and tie it by the 6th * Saltalamacchia nails a GS to make it 8-4 Sox

Edgy MD Sep 13 2013 09:05 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

The Sox have been pretty good at that --- give people hope. Let them chip away and then come with the knockout punch.

G-Fafif Sep 13 2013 09:15 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Rangers looking a little anxious to dip down into the scrum that was previously beneath them. Technically it still is, but when they finish getting blown out by A's tonight (most likely), they'll be only 1.5 better than Rays, 3 better than Tribe, 3.5 ahead of MFYs, 4 over O's. Royals in peril altogether, 3.5 behind Rays. Better to be in Texas's position than KC's, but heavy are the heads that wear the cards.

Frayed Knot Sep 14 2013 06:56 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

G-Fafif wrote: Rangers looking a little anxious to dip down into the scrum that was previously beneath them. Technically it still is, but when they finish getting blown out by A's tonight (most likely), they'll be only 1.5 better than Rays, 3 better than Tribe, 3.5 ahead of MFYs, 4 over O's. . Just barely as it turned out. Rangers, down 9-2, scored 6 in the 8th but had tying run Alex Rios thrown out at tying to go 1st to 3rd on a single to end that inning*, and then failed to score in the 9th as well so the final was 9-8 Oakland. * Close call but it looked to be wrong. Was definitely the type of call we'll see reviewed and probably overturned next season.

Ashie62 Sep 14 2013 09:54 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

The A's are a scoring machine of late, go figure..

Mets – Willets Point Sep 14 2013 12:56 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Boston, Tampa Bay, Cleveland, and Baltimore all did their jobs last night and the Sox are off to a good start again today. Yankees postseason probability is down to 11.9% and their elimination number is 14.

G-Fafif Sep 14 2013 06:09 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Frayed Knot wrote: G-Fafif wrote: Rangers looking a little anxious to dip down into the scrum that was previously beneath them. Technically it still is, but when they finish getting blown out by A's tonight (most likely), they'll be only 1.5 better than Rays, 3 better than Tribe, 3.5 ahead of MFYs, 4 over O's. . Just barely as it turned out. Rangers, down 9-2, scored 6 in the 8th but had tying run Alex Rios thrown out at tying to go 1st to 3rd on a single to end that inning*, and then failed to score in the 9th as well so the final was 9-8 Oakland. * Close call but it looked to be wrong. Was definitely the type of call we'll see reviewed and probably overturned next season. Visions of David Freese, vis-a-vis assuming the fate of Rangers games, danced in my head as soon as I typed "blown out" danced through my head, which is why I amended it with "most likely". Thought this might become bulletin board material for Ron Washington...if he's lurking late in games versus Oakland, that is.

Mets – Willets Point Sep 14 2013 09:32 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

As an ESPN commentator might say, "Baltimore just doesn't want it enough." Among the other players in Team Yankees Elimination, the Red Sox cruised to a 5-1 win, Cleveland won 8-1, and Tampa Bay is up 6-0 after a lengthy delay. The Yankees magic elimination number is 13.

G-Fafif Sep 14 2013 11:37 PM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Rays, Tribe and Royals (plus Bosox) are true American heroes for Saturday. TEX -- TBR -- CLE 1.5 MFY 3.0 KCR 3.5 BAL 3.5

HahnSolo Sep 15 2013 10:46 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Rangers are in an '07 Mets-esque freefall. They could easily fall out of this, giving the MFYs another glimmer (albeit a small one) of hope.

Frayed Knot Sep 16 2013 07:17 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

TEX --- TBR --- CLE -1/2 BAL -2-1/2 NYY -3 KCR -3-1/2 Weekend wrap-up - Boston sweeps the Yanx, outscoring them 22-7 in the process. The real surprise is that the three games managed to take a total of "just" 9:02. Those teams often have trouble getting two games complete in nine hours. - Oakland swept the Rangers and have essentially sewn up the AL West (+6.5) - Indians sweep the ChiSox and, in doing so, put themselves in the lead challenger position with probably the easiest schedule coming down the stretch (KC, HOU, CHW, MIN) - KC loses two of three in a tough series with Detroit. Tigers won 3-2 on Sunday via an 8th inning HR after losing 1-0 on Saturday when Prince was thrown out at the plate for the game's final out. - Tampa took two of three from Minnesota, which sounds decent except that they already had the first two games in the bag and were up 3-0 in the 7th with David Price on the mound yet somehow managed to lose 6-4. [MAD-DOG]You can't be doin' that Mikey, you can't be doin' that![/MAD-DOG] - Orioles took 2 of 3 from Toronto Upcoming: - Free-falling Texas goes to Tampa for some WC-on-WC action Chasing teams probably want to see a sweep here. They won't care which way as long as one of the teams becomes easier to reach. - Indians @ KC Royals probably need all three for themselves, but would do the other contenders a huge favor by taking two - Yanx @ Blue Jays (starting Tuesday) Yanx are 13-3 vs Toron'o (remember, don't pronounce the last T when at Baghdad airport) this season - Orioles at Boston You've done your job Red Sox nation and you've done it well. So how's about taking the next couple of days off?

Mets – Willets Point Sep 16 2013 07:59 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Frayed Knot wrote: - Orioles at Boston You've done your job Red Sox nation and you've done it well. So how's about taking the next couple of days off? My son and I have tickets to the Sep. 22 game at Fenway so I'm selfishly hoping they'll hold off clinching the AL East until then, but it's seems unlikely.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Sep 16 2013 08:02 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

MFYs were eliminated from the division crown last night as though that were any mystery. But eally, terrific job by the Sawx to take, what 6 of 7 vs. these frauds in September.

Edgy MD Sep 16 2013 08:06 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

When the Yankees finally bow out, just remember... the 2013 Mets made the difference.

Mets – Willets Point Sep 16 2013 08:09 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Edgy MD wrote: When the Yankees finally bow out, just remember... the 2013 Mets made the difference. If they finish 3 games out of playoff contention that will be especially sweet.

MFS62 Sep 16 2013 08:13 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Frayed Knot wrote: Yanx are 13-3 vs Toron'o (remember, don't pronounce the last T when at Baghdad airport) this season My Canadian friend, the Blue Jays' fan, pronounced it "Tarana" , quickly followed by "The Centre of the Universe". I asked him if that was because they play in the Rogers Centre and his last name is Rogers. He said it wasn't. He said, "Tarana IS the Centre of the Universe." (eh?) Later

Frayed Knot Sep 16 2013 10:21 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: MFYs were eliminated from the division crown last night as though that were any mystery. But eally, terrific job by the Sawx to take, what 6 of 7 vs. these frauds in September. - Yanx are 6-2 in September vs Balt & ChiSox, but that gain gets smacked down by the 1-6 vs BoSox - Jays, Giants, Rays, and Astros left. - It still bugs me that they're 8 games over .500 with a Negative 15 RS/RA differential, although if some YLDBs want to interpret their season as being more of a success than it actually was based on that illusion then maybe it's not so bad after all even I think the front office is probably too smart to see it that way. - And, yeah, it would be great if our four game sweep--let's repeat that for the hard of hearing ...FOUR GAME SWEEP!!--winds up being a large part of why they fall short. Boston has kind of a weird team--seems more like a thrown-together collection of odd pieces rather than any sense of common theme--but it's certainly working.

Mets – Willets Point Sep 16 2013 11:10 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013 Edited 1 time(s), most recently on Sep 16 2013 11:34 AM

Frayed Knot wrote: if some YLDBs want to interpret their season as being more of a success than it actually was based on that illusion then maybe it's not so bad after all I'm pretty confident that YLDBs only accept a Yankees World Series championship as a success.

Frayed Knot Sep 16 2013 11:34 AM Re: Down the stretch they come, 2013

Sure, but Yanx fans have cast themselves this year as the gritty underdog overcoming steep odds just to be where they are. In doing so, their decent but hardly great record is disguising a below average team as a pseudo-contender and that's bound to fool at least some of the crowd. As a side note, that their run of success from mid-August or so until this past weekend (where they were actually outscoring their opponents) came not despite the older guys they either wanted to get rid of or never wanted in the first place (Granderson, Soriano, and especially ARod) but because of them makes this even more fun.

Frayed Knot Sep 18 2013 07:08 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Ahhh, 'twas a wonderful day in AL playoff race land. - First and foremost, the Yanx got Dickey-ed. 7 innings of 4-hit shutout ball from the loquacious and bearded one plus two innings of one-hit bullpen work added up to a 2-0 Toronto win. After seeing years of games where Yanqui starters couldn't pitch shitty enough to lose, it was nice to see Pettitte pitch well yet take the big 'L' for a change. ARod, meanwhile, didn't make the trip to Canada to have his latest aching whatever looked at in New York which is fun, not because it's an injury, but because the Yanx, who so desperately want to get rid of him, currently need him more than ever. - Boston, whose sweep over the weekend makes their games mostly irrelevant at this point, opted to allow Baltimore to win a game. O's had to earn it though as the winning run was scored in the 9th off Koji Uehara. Prior to that, Uehara had not only not given up a run in who knows how long but had retired 37 straight batters before the triple-SacFly combo that beat him last night. - Even Texas winning their first game in eight days was a good thing even if it came at the expense of Tampa. This keeps both current WC teams a bit further out of reach rather than let one of them fall closer to the pack - and in the other game between competing teams, Cleveland overcame a 3-0 deficit to beat KC, keeping Cleveland close but maybe killing KC's shot. TEX --- TBR --- CLE -0.5 BAL -2.0 KCR -3.5 NYY -3.5 I like the way that race is starting to look. Note that I listed the Yanx behind KC even though they're tied. This is known as the 'Reverse Tiger Effect' named after the networks habit of listing Tiger Woods first among every golfer he's tied with so as to always make him look as close to the top of the overall leaderboard as possible. But since this is my post I'm doing the exact opposite.

MFS62 Sep 18 2013 07:33 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Even though I like the Orioles, I don't want them to make it. If they do, you know Cal Ripken Jr. will be there, and it will make it easier for the announcers to slip in more Derek Jeter references than they normally would. Rooting for KC and Cleveland. Their fans deserve it. Later

Edgy MD Sep 18 2013 07:42 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

That's a real convoluted reason for rooting against the Orioles.

MFS62 Sep 18 2013 07:47 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Edgy MD wrote: That's a real convoluted reason for rooting against the Orioles. I know. But I hadn't slipped in a negative comment about the announcers fawning over Derek Jeter for a while. Every thread needs one. (Insert evil chortle here) Later

Frayed Knot Sep 19 2013 06:47 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Lots of late inning drama and shaky relief pitching amongst the contenders (in both leagues) last night - Toronto blew a 4-0 8th inning lead to the Yanx, then couldn't capitalize (in large part due to bad bunting) after back-to-back leadoff singles in the 9th against Rivera - Orioles got a 2-run/2-out/12th inning single from Chris Davis to beat the Sox in Fenway - Oakland blew a 2-run 9th inning lead (Josh Hamilton HR) then lost the game in the 11th. Blown save for Grant Balfour - Tampa & Texas were tied after nine, then traded runs in the 11th (blown save: Joe Nathan) before Tampa got a walk-off single in the 12th - Royals beat the Indians by the non-dramatic score of 7-2 Wild Card TBR +1.0 TEX --- CLE -0.5 BAL -1.0 KCR -2.5 NYY -2.5

Frayed Knot Sep 20 2013 07:31 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

It's amazing how big a role 51-102 Houston is playing in BOTH division races down the stretch here. The final seven series of the season for the Astros included contenders Oakland ('Stros went 1-3), Cincy (0-3), Cleveland (lost last night, 3 more to go), then 3 each with Texas and the Yanx to finish it out. It's like whoever stumbles and loses to them is automatically eliminated - and not just on record by also on principle. I also read somewhere the other day that the Astros are on pace to become the first team to have back-to-back-to-back 106 or more loss seasons since ... the mid-'60s Mets of course. They're coming off seasons of 106 and 107 losses and need to go 6-3 over their last nine to avoid it again. WC Race TBR --- TEX --- CLE -0.5 BAL -2.0 KCR -3.0 NYY -3.5 This Weekend BALT at TAMPA HOU @ CLEVE GIANTS @ YANX JAYS @ BOSOX TEX @ ROYALS btw, is this the first time this year with the new IL format that a team is doing a two-team/one-city stop like the Giants are this week? - first Citfield then YSIII Seems to me that that would be the preferred way to do things if possible: Oakland on the IL sked this year? - knock off your Giants series at the same time. Hit the ChiSox & the Cubbies back-to-back, etc.

Ceetar Sep 20 2013 07:45 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Frayed Knot wrote: btw, is this the first time this year with the new IL format that a team is doing a two-team/one-city stop like the Giants are this week? - first Citfield then YSIII Seems to me that that would be the preferred way to do things if possible: Oakland on the IL sked this year? - knock off your Giants series at the same time. Hit the ChiSox & the Cubbies back-to-back, etc. Haven't noticed it before this year, but I remember it happening last year. Also interesting was both the Yankees and Mets going to Baltimore back to back. Next year the Mets go to SF/Oakland separately. I'm convinced they could optimize the schedule somewhat that way. One day, with rainouts/makeups, this will happen. One day. The Yankees will play the White Sox in the afternoon while the Mets are playing the Cubs, and then they'll switch for the evening part of the doubleheader.

HahnSolo Sep 20 2013 08:12 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Frayed Knot wrote: btw, is this the first time this year with the new IL format that a team is doing a two-team/one-city stop like the Giants are this week? - first Citfield then YSIII Seems to me that that would be the preferred way to do things if possible: Oakland on the IL sked this year? - knock off your Giants series at the same time. Hit the ChiSox & the Cubbies back-to-back, etc. This year, I think this is the first time anyone is doing this. Off the top of my head, the Reds did it last year or the year before here in NY. A couple of years back the Pirates played the Cubs and White Sox back to back in ChiTown.

dinosaur jesus Sep 20 2013 08:26 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Ceetar wrote: btw, is this the first time this year with the new IL format that a team is doing a two-team/one-city stop like the Giants are this week? - first Citfield then YSIII Seems to me that that would be the preferred way to do things if possible: Oakland on the IL sked this year? - knock off your Giants series at the same time. Hit the ChiSox & the Cubbies back-to-back, etc. Haven't noticed it before this year, but I remember it happening last year. Also interesting was both the Yankees and Mets going to Baltimore back to back. Next year the Mets go to SF/Oakland separately. I'm convinced they could optimize the schedule somewhat that way. One day, with rainouts/makeups, this will happen. One day. The Yankees will play the White Sox in the afternoon while the Mets are playing the Cubs, and then they'll switch for the evening part of the doubleheader. That would be fun. Even more fun would be if the Mets and Yankees just exchanged uniforms and impersonated each other. Wright is our Jeter, of course, so he gets to play shortstop. But would the Mets have anyone fat enough to be a Yankee pitcher?

Gwreck Sep 20 2013 10:13 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

dinosaur jesus wrote: Wright is our Jeter Don't you blaspheme here. Do not take David Wright's name in vain

Frayed Knot Sep 20 2013 11:03 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

dinosaur jesus wrote: But would the Mets have anyone fat enough to be a Yankee pitcher? I noticed the other day that the Yanx have a pitcher even fatter than Joba. I have no idea who he is since there's a number but no name on the back of the jersey (... of course) and because they brought up like two dozen new relievers since Sept 1st and I can't keep track. But whoever it is, the guy looked like a lefty version of Joba after he had just eaten someone the size of Joba.

Frayed Knot Sep 21 2013 06:23 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

The Cleveland Indians: a) got to play Houston; and b) only had to go 7 innings thanks to some timely rain, in order to take over the 2nd WC spot last night. And they'd be in the lead for both SC spots had not Tampa won in the 17th inning over Baltimore. 7 hours and 21 pitchers worth of game Texas got 5-hit by KC and is now on the outside looking in after having gone from 3.5 up in their division to 7.5 out and currently out of both WC slots Yanx won because Fatso Sandoval couldn't turn a DP in the 7th inning of a tie game against a slow catcher. That led to an extended inning, which led to a walk to load the bases, which led to ARod's career record 24th Grand Slam. Too bad he's not clutch or else he'd really have a lot more. Jeter's ONE career GS clearly demonstrates his greater ability to come through in the big moment. TBR +0.5 CLE --- TEX -0.5 BAL -2.5 KCR -2.5 NYY -3.0

G-Fafif Sep 21 2013 09:13 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Spotted keeping the Rays at bay until they could no longer be denied: Josh Stinson, pitching 2.1 scoreless innings. He's come a long way from me conflating him with Josh Satin and Chris Schwinden.

Frayed Knot Sep 21 2013 09:51 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

And as a reward for their near 7-hour marathon last night, the O's & Jays have the 1 PM FOX game today.

Frayed Knot Sep 21 2013 07:57 PM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013 Edited 1 time(s), most recently on Sep 21 2013 09:59 PM

Yanx' win today means they both gain a game on and leapfrog the Orioles and Royals. But they get no closer to Tampa, Texas, or Cleveland who all came up winners today and one day more was removed from the schedule. On the other hand, they only have to catch TWO of those teams. Looks like their fate is going to be decided in the series with Tampa on Tues, Wed, Thurs TBR +0.5 CLE --- TEX -0.5 NYY -3.0 BAL -3.5 KCR -3.5

Mets – Willets Point Sep 21 2013 08:24 PM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

And so we all become Rays fans.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Sep 21 2013 08:25 PM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Stupid fucking Giants. Now they have to spoil Mariano and Andy Oral Day.

Ashie62 Sep 21 2013 08:27 PM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Wil Myers went 0-8 for the Rays the other day...

Frayed Knot Sep 22 2013 03:34 PM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Lots of SFG heros today in the Bronx - Pettitte had a no-hitter thru 5 but Ehire Adrianza (the guy whose name even Gary had trouble pronouncing the other day - that Keith did is just a given) HR'd with one out in the 6th to break up the no-no and tie the game at 1-1 - Pedro Sandoval who doubled to lead off the 8th - and then manager Bruce Bochy for immediately yanking Panda out of there for a pinch-runner and defensive improvement. That was the last batter that Pettitte would face. - Tony Abreu for doubling in the pinch-runner one batter later with the go-ahead score - SF reliever Santiago Casilla was also a hero today for keeping the Yanx off the board in the bottom of the 8th despite giving up three hits in the frame. With 2nd & 3rd and no one out, he got a grounder/out at home, then K'd Granderson. The 3rd out came when SF hero Juan Perez threw Cano's ass out at the plate from LF on a subsequent single. Nice of Cano, btw, to NOT advance to 3rd on the previous play at the plate. - And hero/closer Sergio Romo for his 1-2-3 bottom 9th, an act of heroism which denied a win for Rivera on Rivera Day (had Romo lost the lead) and ensured a loss to Pettitte despite his excellent outing in his final home start. Romo joins SF starter/hero Yusmeiro Petit [Hmmmm, Pettitte vs Petit ... small world] who had a rougher road than Pettitte but matched his one run allowed through 6-1/3 innings. And the bottom line is: one more game further from Tampa, one more further from Cleveland, no closer to Texas, got leap-frogged by KC, ... and one more day removed from the schedule. 4.5 behind Tampa 4.0 in back of Cleveland 2.5 behind Texas and 1/2 game behind KC and ahead of Baltimore And they've got to finish ahead of at least four of those teams.

Frayed Knot Sep 23 2013 07:29 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Texas, winners of 5 of their last 20, may be one of those on the outside looking in at the moment, but now it's their turn to play the Astros for three games starting tonight so maybe they're not quite dead yet. Houston has played or will play mostly contenders down the stretch, already have 105 losses in the vault and are 7-14 in September, 21-53 since the end of June. Tampa and Baltimore have one game left over to finish this afternoon before Tampa heads to the Bronx and Baltimore hosts Toronto. Cleveland has today off, then continues it's run through the dregs of the American League as they finish with 2 against the ChiSox then 4 at Minnesota. The other long shot (aside from, heh, heh, the Yanx) is KC but they have a chance to put a run together with 3 games in Seattle starting tonight followed by 4 at the White Sox. KC's 'Tragic Number' is 4. Yanx & Baltimore are at 3

Frayed Knot Sep 24 2013 07:13 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

After last night's games: Tampa over Baltimore; Royals hanging on the beat the Mariners in the 12th; Texas over Houston; every team is down to six remaining. TBR +1.0 CLE --- TEX -1.0 KCR -3.0 MFY -4.0 BAL -5.0 Now even if we were to be generous and give the Yanx 2 out of 3 against Tampa and then a sweep vs Houston,[u:38rzxj1u] the Yanx could only qualify for the 2nd Wild Card spot TIE[/u:38rzxj1u] if ALL of the following happened ... - the Indians were to go no better than 1-5 against the Twins & ChiSox (3 games each) - the Rangers were to go no better than 2-4 (Astros x 2; Angels x 4) - the Royals play 4-2 or worse (Mariners x 2; White Sox x 4) In addition an Oriole sweep of their six games (3 each w/Toronto & Boston) would plop them into a tie with this theoretical 5-1 MFY finish. Oh yeah, and Sabathia is out for the remainder of the season (hamstring). Realistically it's looking like three teams for two spots. If it winds up being Tampa & Cleveland they, along with already in Oakland, would mean that the AL playoff teams would include those who are 15th (aka: last) in attendance (Tampa), 14th (Cleveland), and 9th (Oakland). And I'm surprised that Oakland is as high as it is.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Sep 24 2013 04:55 PM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

I think we're going to Thursday's home closer at MFYIII. (Cousin and girlfriend from out of town-- cousin's from here originally, she's from MIlwaukee and has never been-- are looking to see both "new" parks; we're doing Citi on Saturday and Sunday, prob'ly.) I'm hoping they stick around long enough to make Thursday "meaningful;" it might make the thing more fun to watch in person.

Frayed Knot Sep 24 2013 06:23 PM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

If they do wind up getting eliminated before that date you're planning on going you may wind up having your choice of seats when you get there.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Sep 24 2013 08:49 PM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

If they do, I'm bringing a "A-Rod is a True Yankee" placard sign. With a centaur on it.

Edgy MD Sep 25 2013 06:16 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

That could work, but only if you sell it as if you're serious. You'd have to wear the hat and shirt.

dinosaur jesus Sep 25 2013 07:07 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

What's not to be serious about? ARod is a true Yankee. And a true centaur. Centaur is just Greek for "horse's ass."

Frayed Knot Sep 25 2013 07:24 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

The game of the night among contenders was in Cleveland. - Up 3-2 on the woeful White Sox, closer Chris Perez came in for the save. But the leadoff HR he gave up blew the save, then a second one after two were out put them in danger of losing both the game and their lead over Texas (who, not surprisingly beat the Astros). Francona pulled Perez after another hit and needed two more relievers just to get out of the inning down by only one run. But then with two outs and a runner on against ChiSox closer Addison Reed, 72 y/o Jason Giambi PH's a game-winning 2R HR. Other than that, Baltimore lost and was eliminated - although what looked like maybe a chunk-of-next-season-lost injury to young star Manny Machado turns out to be only "minor" ligament damage with a winter recovery period. KC lost to Seattle and is virtually out of it. And the Yanx got steamrolled and are out except for the miracle scenario where they can tie for the 2nd WC spot if they win out and every other contender suddenly decides to go on a drinking binge and forfeit their remaining games. TBR +1.0 CLE --- TEX -1.0 KCR -4.0 MFY -5.0 * Texas's biggest problem is not just the one game back but the fact that today is their last one against Houston (Astros have lost 11 straight on their September tour through AL & NL contenders). They then finish with four against the improving Angels who at least have a pride-salvaging .500 record to shoot for. * Indians have one more with Chicago then 4 with the Twins * Rays have the Yanx twice more (almost as good as the Astros but not quite) then 3 with Toronto.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Sep 25 2013 07:33 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Still hoping Texas loses out and KC gets there. At least the Royals seem to want it.

Frayed Knot Sep 25 2013 08:07 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

The Royals finish with 4 against the ChiSox so it's always possible -- although their chances would have been better had they not gotten shutout/five-hit by three Mariners rookies last night.

MFS62 Sep 25 2013 08:14 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Frayed Knot wrote: But then with two outs and a runner on against ChiSox closer Addison Reed, 72 y/o Jason Giambi PH's a game-winning 2R HR. Not quite 72, but at roughly 42 1/2 years old, he became the oldest player to ever hit a walkoff home run. Heard on ESPN Radio, so, consider the source. Later

Edgy MD Sep 25 2013 08:31 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

I don't know how long Ron Washington lasts coming so close so often. He's got one more year on his deal.

HahnSolo Sep 25 2013 08:40 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Edgy MD wrote: I don't know how long Ron Washington lasts coming so close so often. About 5 more days? I can't see him surviving another collapse.

Mets – Willets Point Sep 25 2013 08:55 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

HahnSolo wrote: Edgy MD wrote: I don't know how long Ron Washington lasts coming so close so often. About 5 more days? I can't see him surviving another collapse. The 2011 World Series with the team being one strike away from a championship in two different innings should be enough to kill an ordinary man.

Fman99 Sep 25 2013 10:12 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Mets – Willets Point wrote: HahnSolo wrote: Edgy MD wrote: I don't know how long Ron Washington lasts coming so close so often. About 5 more days? I can't see him surviving another collapse. The 2011 World Series with the team being one strike away from a championship in two different innings should be enough to kill an ordinary man. Behold the power of bucketfuls of cocaine in Ron Washington's house.

MFS62 Sep 26 2013 08:05 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Edgy MD wrote: I don't know how long Ron Washington lasts coming so close so often. He's got one more year on his deal. When he was a player, I always thought that one day he would play for the Mets. But he never did. Sort of like Al Spangler. Later

Frayed Knot Sep 27 2013 06:36 PM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

The 'Fun' scenario for this weekend involves a three-way tie at the end of Sunday and a Monday-Wednesday play-in game orgy. To achieve that Tampa has to play one game worse than Cleveland who has to play one worse than Texas. Ex: Tampa at 0-3; Cleveland at 1-2; Texas at 2-1 or the same teams at: 1-2; 2-1; 3-0 Assuming that each individual game outcome is a 50/50 proposition (not entirely accurate but much easier math) I put the three-way tie scenario at about a 3.5% chance. Tampa is at Toronto this weekend - and are currently losing Indians are winning in Minnesota Texas is hosting the Angels and are currently winning.

Gwreck Sep 27 2013 09:42 PM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

With the Red Sox win and the Tigers loss, the pairings are set for the first round: Wild Card at Red Sox Tigers at Athletics

Frayed Knot Sep 28 2013 06:17 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Gwreck wrote: With the Red Sox win and the Tigers loss, the pairings are set for the first round: Wild Card at Red Sox Tigers at Athletics Is this correct? ... because if the A's win out and Boston loses both, the two teams would tie for the best record (97-63) and be even in their season series (3-3), but the A's would be one game better in intra-division which is (I believe) the first tie-breaker for determining home-field in such cases. In the meantime, I figure the results of last night's games kicks the three-way tie scenario up to nearly a 10% shot (9.375%) Tampa & Cleveland are currently tied so they have to match each other over the remaining two games at either 0-2 or 1-1 while Texas plays one game better (going 1-1 while the others are losing out or winning twice as the others are splitting).

Frayed Knot Sep 28 2013 09:06 PM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

NOW it's official (as the result of Oakland's loss today) that the BoSox have the #1 seed throughout the AL playoffs. Elsewhere, though, it's chaos as it's suddenly crunch time in the Tampa/St Pete area on the heels of two straight losses to Toronto. Eight possibilities remain with the three teams still fighting for the two WC spots. - In seven of those scenarios, Cleveland gets in and the worst they can do is win a spot in the play-in game to get to the play-in game. ONE of those eight (12.5% chance assuming all outcomes are 50/50) puts the AL WC into a three-way tie Half of the possible outcomes result in some kind of tie. CLE TEX TB OUTCOME W W W CL = IN; TX & TB = TIE W W L TB = OUT W L W TEX = OUT L W W 3 WAY TIE W L L CLE = IN; TX & TB = TIE L W L TB = OUT L L W TX = OUT L L L CLE = IN; TX & TB = TIE Should be a fun afternoon.

Frayed Knot Sep 29 2013 11:26 AM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Rays say that the rumors of their demise are greatly exaggerated - and emphasize that by scoring SIX in the top of the 1st. Pressure now shifts to the stRangers.

Frayed Knot Sep 29 2013 02:22 PM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Rays trying REALLY hard to blow this game and their season. Up 6-0 before the Blue Jays even came to bat and later 7-0, it's 7-6 heading for the 9th and that's only with Tampa pitchers dancing out of bases-loaded deals in both the 7th & 8th with GiDPs.

Frayed Knot Sep 29 2013 03:14 PM Re: Down the stretch they come (AL), 2013

Tampa hangs on. Cleveland wins so they are in and the 3-way tie possibility is out. Texas, currently leading by a run in the 7th, can tie TB for the final spot or lose and go home.