Will 2006 be the Year of the Hawk?

(TheJournalNews)

How To Accomplish a Successful Negotiation With Huizenga's People

Step 1: Be the Orange Bowl Committee. (SunSentinel)

The After-Christmas Bargain Hunting Continues

...as Marlins sign infielder Wes Helms and catcher Miguel Olivo. (SportsNetwork)

MORE: And Kerry Ligtenberg, too. (SunSentinel)

Nats Get in the Relocation Race, But Generous Jeffrey's Way Ahead

"Officials in Las Vegas, San Antonio and Portland have had informal discussions with Marlins executives about relocating but have not talked with MLB regarding the Nationals. One thing working in the District's favor is that none of the cities is willing to pay for the full cost of a stadium, as the District agreed to do last year. By luring the Marlins instead, the team would likely be able to convince the team owners to pay for part of the project.

"On the other hand, MLB, which owns the Nationals, so far has been unwilling to contribute heavily to ballpark construction, agreeing to commit $20 million toward the Nationals' stadium only after a tense four-month negotiation over the lease.

"'We are not going to fully publicly finance a stadium,' said Christian Archer, a special assistant to San Antonio Mayor Phil Hardberger. 'That's not on the table here. Everyone knows what the tab is, and it's substantial.'

"Industry sources said Las Vegas may have the strongest chance oflanding a team because it is one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation and mayor Oscar Goodman is a wild baseball supporter. But financing plans are still under discussion, and support from residents and casino operators has been mixed.

"Portland does have in place a bill, passed in 2003, that would use an estimated $150 million in income taxes from players and team officials toward ballpark construction. But city support for baseball has softened in the last year. New mayor Tom Potter has said baseball should not be a priority, and it is unclear whether governor Ted Kulongoski would support a stadium plan because he is seeking re-election." (WashingtonTimes)

Fish Get Pokey, Joe

EDIT: No, not Joey,...Joe. (MLB)

Marlins To Sign Player Who Actually Played in Big Leagues

(FishStripes)

FLASHBACK: Loria's Ex-Wife and Samson Closer to Selig Than Jeffrey?

Check out the October 20, 2003 post on the late Doug Pappas' Business of Baseball Weblog.

"Commissioner Bud Selig and his family have long-time ties to the wife of Florida Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria. Sivia Loria is from Milwaukee, Wis., as is David Samson, the Marlins' president and stepson of Jeffrey Loria. Samson's father-in-law was the former team physician for the Milwaukee Brewers.."

MORE: For fun, here's the Wikipedia entry for Jeffrey Loria.

McKeon "Pacing the Aisles of Discount Stores"

"I go nuts!" says he. "He needs to go outside and do something," says wife. (BaseballMusings)(GoogleMiamiHerald)

MORE: And also a cool mention of Larry Walansky at marlinsbaseball.com.

STILL MORE: Jack'll be in Clearwater on Jan. 25. (TBN)

BREAKING NEWS: Santa Holds Fire Sale

Deals 8 veteran reindeer to Hanukkah Harry for half-a-tray of latkes....red-nosed rookie to now head up team of flying squirrels....flight path diverted to Portland, Charlotte, Monterrey. (NORAD)

MEANWHILE...No matter how things may seem, I still wish for you and yours a very wonderful (insert your preference here).

TOP STORY: Fan Compares Fish to KISS

(rec.music.artists.kiss)

Q&A About the WBC

(ESPN)

Adios Juan (Right-Field Version)

Off to St. Louis you go! (ESPN)

Part 2 of the Joe Arriola Interview

(MarlinsToday)

Two Positive Words For the Marlins: Mike Jacobs

(MLB)

Parting Shot For Luis

Condo development company Castillo and Edgar Renteria invested large chunks of money in files for bankruptcy. (MiamiHerald)

Coaching Staff Complete

Presley does the hits, Tuck's on the bench. (GoogleMiamiHerald)

Presley: "I'm really excited about this. I know the Marlins are in a rebuilding stage, but when you look on paper and see the young talent they have available ... they have guys who can flat-out play." (PensacolaNewsJournal)

Conine Back in Baltimore

(FOXSports)

MORE: Check out Mr.Marlin March 2nd in Ft. Lauderdale. (BaltimoreSun)

Joe Dillon Escapes to Japan

(BradentonHerald)

Complete Next Year's Marlins Ad Slogan --- "Get ____ed Up!"

No, your first guess was wrong. But at least there's some good news - the Marlins' ad budget was cut less this year than last year's. (SunSentinel)

Andre Dawson Learns How to Swim

(BattleCreekEnquirer)

Selig Wakes Up?

"Top MLB officials appear determined to get a Marlins stadium deal done on Wayne Huizenga-owned land next to Dolphins Stadium. Commissioner Bud Selig and MLB president Bob DuPuy already have spoken with Huizenga, DuPuy tells us."...ALSO: Hanley doesn't think he's ready. (MiamiHerald)

San Antonio Has The Judge's Stadium All Ready...But It's Not Ready For MLB

"Two years ago, a Major League Baseball executive contacted Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff about the possibility of San Antonio as a home for the vagabond Montreal Expos. Team executives spurned an offer of playing a split schedule in minor-league Nelson Wolff Stadium in San Antonio and in Monterrey, Mexico...

"Wolff said he isn't sure if San Antonio is ready to build a stadium and support baseball but thinks that it will be within the next decade....

"With an empty Alamodome, only a 1/8-cent of sales tax left under a state-mandated cap, and hotel occupancy and car rental taxes paying for the Spurs' arena, a new stadium is not likely in the picture, (Mayor Phil) Hardberger and Wolff said." (MySanAntonio.com)

Braves Interested in Conine

...along with Orioles and Twins. (BaltimoreSun)

Looks Like We Got Ourselves a Team Of Historic Proportions

"Having only three players remaining from a championship team three years later is the lowest total ever, and I wouldn't be surprised if the Marlins got rid of any or all of the three post arbitration....Baseball has not seen as inexperienced a team as this since foundation of the rival Union Association in 1884....Whatever the cause, I think we have an opportunity to witness something that will make the '62 Mets and the 2003 Tigers seem like amateurs (or is that professionals?). We're talking neo-Cleveland Spiders here." (BaseballToaster)(Part2)

"Miami Fans are All Yak and No Shack"

"Perhaps there is something a little odd about us. Like, even at rock concerts, Fla-botomized music lovers can barely muster the requisite applause for an encore. And when you do clap and whoop, they look over their shoulders at you and scowl. Is it the weather? Is it the transient society? Why, even when our boys the Dolphins spin a big win, can't South Floridians stick around long enough to be rocked?" (NewTimesBPB)

Slate's Justin Peters Thinks the Fire Sale is 'Ingenious'

"The Marlins will suck this year, which will disappoint their 17 fans. But it will be a short-term badness. In two years or so, when the Las Vegas or Portland Marlins are ready to get back to spending, other clubs will still be saddled with the bad contracts that Florida dumped on them this year." (Slate)

Bye Bye Ron

Off to the Yanks you go. "At least I get to go to a place where I have a pretty decent chance to win," said Mr. 6.85 ERA. (MLB)

MORE: Maverick evaluates the trade, then gets P.O'ed. (MaverickBall)

'Scott' Gives 10 Reasons Why Portland Can't Afford a Baseball Stadium

(OnTheRocks)

Marlins Claim Former A's Catcher

... and invite a bunch of guys to Spring Training. (MLB)

Andy Delivers Part 1 of Joe Arriola's "Very Candid" Recent Radio Interview...

...and then puts out some dead-on commentary of his own. (MarlinsToday)

...And Berardino Reveals the Biggest Punch Line Of Them All

"'We can win a World Series every year, we can have four million people, five million people coming to see us and we still couldn't survive [without a new stadium],' Samson said. 'Baseball wouldn't allow it and we can't do it.'" (SunSentinel)

Enjoy Some of David's 'Party' Humor

(Courtesy of the Sun-Sentinel, Miami Herald, NBC6, and the AP.)

"'I appreciate the emotion...I appreciate the fact you feel hurt and burned.'"

"'Jeffrey wants [the team] to stay more than all of you.'"

"'We were [considered] the most disappointing team in all of baseball [in 2005]. It's not like we traded the '27 Yankees.'"

"Off stage, Samson said the team has received fewer than 100 refund requests, which the Marlins won't grant."

"'We're definitely negotiating with everybody, and we're trying to get a deal done here.'"

"Samson, in talking about how the team's fan base has grown under Loria's ownership, was roundly booed when he said, 'In 2002, none of you were wearing Marlins stuff.'"

"'Five of the last seven stadium deals were done in cities where the team started to relocate and then didn't. . . . The first thing I said to the mayor of San Antonio is you are not our first choice.'"

"'Our focus is on staying in South Florida, that's our only goal.'"

"When one suggested the Marlins sell the team to Venezuelan media mogul Gustavo Cisneros, Samson said, 'I'm sorry. Do you work for [Miami city manager Joe] Arriola?'"

"'If you're thinking you can have an owner who is super rich, who is all of a sudden going to pour money into the team, I've got a very interesting surprise for you. You had two owners like that and they didn't do it either.'"

"Samson again ruled out building a stadium without a retractable roof to save money."

"One fan blasted Samson for his 'tone of voice,' yelling, 'We're all you've got. Look at how you're talking to us.' Samson responded, 'Look how you're talking to me! That's not how a conversation should go.' The fan then left."

"Asked about ideas to help raise money for a stadium, Samson said local government suggested a ticket surcharge, but the team opposes that. 'We've looked at the legal implications of doing a stock offering,' he added."

"After the session, Samson said, 'It would have been a problem if we had five people here. Apathy is far worse than negativity.'"

"It's The "Guess the Opening Day Lineup" Game!!!"

(FishStripes)(BaseballMusings)

"We're Number 0.81!! We're Number 0.81!!"

Keith Isley looks under the surface appearance to discover Marlins fans are not the suckfest that even they themselves claim to be. (HardballTimes)

Joe Impresses Dontrelle And Miguel

Cabrera: "Manager Joe Girardi is a good thing for us. He'll make us play the right way"....Willis: "He called [Friday] to see how I was doing. I like him. He's a very intelligent, articulate guy, a winner." (GoogleMiamiHerald)

Girardi: "I'm Very Excited"

More quotes from this interview by Newsday's Ken Davidoff: "My job is to get the community to embrace the team by the way we play....I need guys to step up, and I'm going to let them know. The important thing to me is that they know they're accountable to each other, before anyone else. When a clubhouse runs itself, that's the best clubhouse. I will work on that, quickly...My owner wants to win. They've proven that they can do it. No regrets." (Newsday)

MORE QUOTES: "My thought is if you're going to go young, go all young. They can grow together, learn to rely on each other, be accountable. And the competition is good. The competition for the spots is healthy....A big part of my job is making sure that these guys understand that they belong in the big leagues and they can do it. That's going to be my message; that just because you're young doesn't mean you can't play." (StPeteTimes)

They're Calling It a 'Party'

"The Marlins will allow season-ticket holders to speak with Samson and General Manager Larry Beinfest at a party at 6 p.m. Tuesday at Dolphins Stadium." (GoogleMiamiHerald)

Bye Bye Jeff, and Antonio, and Alex, and Ismael, and Paul, and Jim, and Mike, and Damion, and Juan (the Right-Field Version)

Why, hello Moe. (GoogleMiamiHerald)

Bye Bye D-Train and Miggy?

"(T)he cost-cutting Marlins...have begun to tell teams that every player on their roster - including Dontrelle Willis and Miguel Cabrera - is available for the right price." (SunSentinel)

Bye Bye Juan

Off to Chicago you go! (FishStripes)

Bye Bye Todd

Off to Detroit you go! (DetNews.com)

"The Tigers apparently are waiting until Thursday to announce the signing so they don't have to give the Marlins a high pick in next year's draft as compensation for Jones." (Freep.com)

Forget Blaming Loria, Fans, Commissioners, MLB, State Senators...

....there's always been only one cause of the Marlins' woes, and its initials are HWH. (BrowardNewTimes)

Huizenga Offered Land and Money to Marlins, But Marlins Won't Budge

...according to "a person familiar with the discussions and close to the Dolphins owner", who says "Wayne is very close to pulling the plug on the offer. At some point you say, 'I've had enough,' and that's about where we are. ....Unless the Marlins or Major League Baseball put something meaningful on the table, I'm leery a deal can be done. Up to now, all the movement has been by everybody but the Marlins." (FOXSports)(SunSentinel)

MORE: But the Marlins did make a movement,...towards San Antonio. (Mlive.com)

Marlins "Are a Black Mark on the League"

"So they have won two World Series in just 12 years? Big deal. Part of being a champion is behaving like one, and in that, the Marlins have failed. Miserably.

"Huizenga and Jeffrey Loria -- past and present owners of the Marlins -- probably wonder why deals for a new stadium never gained momentum, especially with an organization that boasts such an impressive track record.

"It's no secret, really. You don't generate good will and civic pride by rolling over. Neither had the clout or the wherewithal to facilitate a deal for a new stadium. But both were pros when it came to cutting their losses with fire sales.

"It's a travesty." (BeaufortGazette)

A. J. (Adios, Jack) Burnett Signing With Toronto

...reportedly for 5 years at $11 million per. (BaseballMusings)

The Jeffrey Speaks

"We've spent a lot of time going through baseball as we can see it. We're quite capable of building another championship team rather quickly, in two or three years. These names of players that you don't know, they'll be household names down the road, many of them."..."I'm not going to lose any more money. There is no reason to. No intelligent businessman is going to run his business this way. I've run this business with my heart the last four years."..."(*T)here would have been corrections anyway. Let's not forget, the team didn't improve last year."(MLB)

Huizenga, Marlins Agreed On Something?

"We have offered the Marlins a lot"..."At the appropriate time, shortly, we'll talk about what we've agreed to do." (GoogleMiamiHerald)

Another Rumor Becomes Real - Lo Duca Traded to Mets

"The Mets will send 19-year-old right-hander Gabriel Hernandez and another minor leaguer pitcher to be named, the Daily News reported." (ESPN)(NYDailyNews)

Le Batard's Head and Heart Smack Each Other Around

(GoogleMiamiHerald)

N.Y. Times Reports Marlins in "Very Serious" Talks About Trading...

...Lo Duca to the Mets. (NYTimes)

Did 'ReEfEr MaDnEsS' Stumble Onto The Master Plan?

(GoogleGroups)

Berardino Puts The Kibosh on the "Market Correction" Spin

"To recap, in the span of 10 days the Marlins have shipped off a combined eight All-Star appearances, four Gold Gloves, 532 homers, 3,812 hits, 63 wins, 1,073 innings and a World Series MVP. In return they have received a total of 102 big-league at-bats and 92/3 big-league innings." (SunSentinel)

Rumor Becomes 'True'-mor

(BaseballAmerica)

"Why is it That Wherever Loria Goes, Teams Threaten to Move?"

Winter meetings coming up; Washington and Miami problems inspire sales of Rolaids. (TorontoStar)

Can You Stand More Rumors?

Luis goes to the Twins? (FOXSports)....Villone back to Seattle? (ScrippsHoward)

Chef Bob Trying to Save The Marlins

(DeepFriedFish)

Miami City Manager Joe Arriola and David Samson

You can just feel the love. (SunSentinel)(GoogleMiamiHerald)

It's Promotion Time!

"FLORIDA MARLINS-Named Larry Beinfest executive vice president and general manager, Michel Bussiere executive vice president and chief financial officer, P.J. Loyello senior vice president-communications and broadcasting, Susan Jaison senior vice president-finance, Claude Delorme senior vice president-stadium development, Bill Beck senior director-team travel, Brendan Cunningham senior director-corporate sales and Tony Tome manager-corporate sales." (Gainesville.com)

The Fire Sale Will Continue...

...according to Todd Jones' agent. (GoogleMiamiHerald)

Delgado Goes to Un-American Team

(JournalNews)...a team that has All The Money In The World! (BaseballMusings)....and proves it by also snagging Billy Wagner. (CNN)

Marlins 2003 Season Tainted?

Say it 'taint so! (BaseballMusings)

McKeon On The Beckett-Lowell Trade - Advantage: Boston

And how about this little nugget?..."McKeon said he knew a couple of years ago that the Marlins would be going through their current fire sale." (Zwire.com)

MORE: McKeon, on Boston radio, thinks Beckett's blisters were mostly humidity-related. (GoogleGroups)

John Brattain Exposes Marlins' and Loria's History and Financials...

...and concludes that "this isn't about the viability of the franchise; this is about padding profits (yes, profits) and making Loria a lot more wealthy without him having to actually work for it.

"Loria has two choices: One, rebuild the fan base remembering that the damage has been done over the course of years and it's going to take an investment of money and time (read: years) to reverse it. Or as option two, he can throw a temper tantrum, blame the consumer and try to find a region that's willing to make him a lot more wealthy.

"Guess which choice he has made? He's told South Florida to go to hell and is whoring himself out to any region willing to whip out the public teat and allow him to nurse until he's gorged. He's said this is his intention repeatedly since 2004.

"And he wonders why folks still stay away? He's shown no loyalty to South Florida. He expects fans to come out regardless of the quality of the team and expects local politicians to place a higher priority on fattening his wallet than providing hurricane relief. And if all that happens, then he'll pledge fealty to the region.

"His approach is about as subtle as a double-fisted schoolyard salute." (HardballTimes)

Beckett-Lowell Trade Finalized And - Wait A Minute, How Did Mota's Name Get In There?

Must have been one of those after-Thanksgiving sales. (USAToday)

MORE: Fish get Grant Psomas and Harvey Garcia out of the bargain bins. (FishStripes)

Girardi Can't Stop Saying "I'm Excited"

"Just because you're young doesn't mean you can't play. People shouldn't forget that they won the World Series in 2003 with young kids. There's a lot of coaching to be done with young kids, and I'm excited about it." (NYTimes)

Marlins Go On Spending Spree

...while continuing the colorfully-named-players theme. (SLAM!Sports)

Fill Out Your Own 'Marlins Fire-Sale Press Release'

"_____ _______ is being traded by the _________ Marlins to the ________ ______ for ____ ________ from the minor-leagues and ___ ________ to be named later."

The 'Charlotte Marlins'? More Like 'Charlatans'

"We're not ready for Major League Baseball at this point." (News14Carolina)

Great 'Half Baked Thoughts' From Mike

(FishStripes)

Ha! Just Try and Relocate!

"Sorry, Jeffrey, you're staying a while. MLB can't abandon a city that Loria calls "the gateway to the Americas" at a time when it's starting the World Baseball Classic and entering a new era of internationalization. Contraction? Makes even less sense." (FOXSports)

Somewhere, In The Distance, The Sound of Cub Fans Guffawing

(BleedCubbieBlue)

"Hey, St. Pete! Can You Squeeze Us In For, Oh, About 75 Days A Year, 'Till Someone Buys Us a New Park?"

"Don't worry, It'll be great! 'Course we can't mix-and-match laundry, but think of all the savings we can accrue, with shared lockers and all. Hell, we even came up a new name for the Trop - 'The Florida Contraction Center'. Has a sort of ring to it...like a bell tolling, don't ya think?"

"What? Your roof's not retractable? Never mind." (MLB)

"It's Ridiculous" Thinking Samson's Taken Over the Club...

(MLB)... Why, Jeffrey's working hard on trading Josh and Mike to the Rangers....Eh, what? Jeffrey's all the way over in Europe? Well, no matter, he still has his finger on the pulse of.... What?? Josh and Mike's going to the Red Sox, not the Rangers?? And Jeffrey's been "not easily accessible"? Hello,..Hello, Jeffrey?...

Classy Dontrelle Impresses the People of Plainedge

(Newsday)

BREAKING NEWS: A Team Actually Wants Mike Lowell

Unfortunately they also want the Fish to keep paying a chunk of his salary. (GooglePioneerPress)

CORRECTION: Marlins Aren't Getting Rid Of Beckett - The Fans Are!

Or the lack of fans, says Le Batard. (GoogleMiamiHerald)

Your 2006 Marlins: Just Like the 2005 Marlins...

....except for the manager, most of the coaching staff, and possibly almost all of the players. (PalmBeachPost)

Rangers Sources Say A Deal "Would Likely Be Done By Monday"

...trading Beckett-Lowell for Blalock-Danks. (DallasMorningNews)

Marlins Must Salary-Dump $20 Million in '06, Says Some Guy

...who was able to squeeze out a conversation with Omar Minaya in-between frantic calls from Marlins execs "desperate" to ditch Delgado. (StarLedger)

David Pinto Puzzles Over Delgado-Palmeiro Trade Rumor

(Say what?)...(BaseballMusings)

100% Rumor-Free Post

"Rick Kranitz was hired as pitching coach of the Florida Marlins on Friday after spending the past 22 seasons in the Chicago Cubs' organization.

"Kranitz was pitching coach for the Cubs' Triple-A Iowa affiliate the past two seasons.

"New Marlins manager Joe Girardi still seeks bench, hitting and bullpen coaches. He has hired Bobby Meacham to coach third base and Perry Hill to coach first.

"Kranitz succeeds Mark Wiley, who was pitching coach last season for manager Jack McKeon.

"The Marlins added four pitchers to their 40-man roster: right-hander Allen Baxter, left-hander Adam Bostick, right-hander Jose Garcia and right-hander Carlos Martinez." (SFGate.com)

MORE: Transaction Guy lays out who we got, and who is not. (TransactionGuy)

More Free Meals For A. J.!

With that Toronto steak dinner just barely digested, Burnett gloms another gourmet feast on the Nats' tab in Miami Beach. Who knows what the Cardinals had to feed him to keep him interested?

Meanwhile the Fish are showing interest in Overbay and Ordonez, but probably just as far as the drive-thru lane at Burger King.

MORE: The Nats also want Encarnacion. (MLB)

Pierre Rumors On Chicago Radio

And rumor debunking also. (GoogleGroups)

MORE: Cub fans go pro-and-con on Juan. (GoogleGroups)

Nostradumbass Strikes Again!

Check out predictions 2 and 4. (HardballTimes)

Which Anagram of 'Carlos Delgado' ...

...best fits his situation?

1. Lodged Rascal
2. Calls A 'Dodger'
3. Cad Ogles Lard
4. Scared Old Gal
5. A Cradled Slog
6. Egad! Collards!

What Discrimination?

Carpenter was mathematically certain to win Cy Young. (TopTechNews)

Interesting Yankees Trade Talk From Pete Caldera

"JUAN PIERRE: The Marlins' speedster won't be a free agent until after the '06 season, and he was moderately priced at $3.7 million this year.

"Joe Girardi's club is much more eager to dump the $48 million left on Carlos Delgado's contract over the next three years - a difficult proposition with first basemen Paul Konerko, Jim Thome, Lyle Overbay and Kevin Millar available via trade or free agency.

"Since Gary Sheffield never wanted to leave the Marlins, as he's said many times over, the Yanks could attempt to ship him to Florida for Pierre - as long as they take another big contract in return, or if the Marlins can deal Delgado somewhere else.

"The Yankees could attempt to plug center with Matsui this year, and then sign Pierre as a free agent next year. With 57 steals last year and the ability to track down balls in the gap, Pierre fits what the Yanks are seeking in center." (NorthJersey.com)

News From The "Wasn't He Retiring?" Dept.

Jim Mecir files for free agency. (SportsNetwork)

Nic Ungs Gives Up Record-Breaking Homer

(OurSportsCentral)...but he and the other Marlin AFL'ers have been doing well. (MLB)

Next Installment of the "Larry Says 'Goodbye to Miami' Tour"

"Jeffrey Loria gave me a huge chance here. He gave me the reins to a major-league franchise after two years as an assistant GM. I would like to think... if you can step up to this challenge maybe you can step up to the next one, whether that's in a different market or at a different job." (PalmBeachPost)

Jeffrey Charts A Course,..

...one that may not include Lowell and/or Delgado. (PalmBeachPost)

Would Roxy Do Radio for the A's Next Year?

"(H)is contract with the Marlins prevents him from pursuing other jobs. However, he could be a candidate if the A's were to pursue him." (ContraCostaTimes)

A. J. Tours Toronto, Delivers More Parting Shots

"I'm so impressed with the front office here...It's night and day from what I'm used to (in Florida). They're all good people...I want to go somewhere where the fans want to win as much as I want to win and the club wants to win as much as I want to win." (SLAMSports)

Wilma Puts Cone of Uncertainty Over Marlins

"Already a low-revenue team, the storm likely will affect the product the club puts on the field. Without the projected corporate sponsorships and season-ticket sales, the payroll probably will decline from the record total of $65 million in 2005. How much of a decrease, assuming that is the decision of owner Jeffrey Loria, remains to be seen." (MLB)

Buzz: Delgado Stays with Marlins (Possibly)

His contract doesn't have a no-trade clause, but... (MetsBlog)....MORE: Delgado could also "demand a trade after one season if he is dealt." (NYDailyNews)

ALSO: Again through MetsBlog comes ESPN's Insanely Early 2006 Power Rankings.

BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!

Finally the electricity came back on! (It was out for about 8.5 days.) Now I can return to my lifelong quest of fighting the swamp with air conditioning.

Finally Back (Sort Of...)

QUICK NOTES: Have to do this quick as I'm on a public computer (Still no electricity in my 'hood - local library just opened today and I'm using their computers)....Wilma mangled a bunch of my shutters and gutters and toppled our big mango tree, but the house and roof and all inside are okay....Haven't even seen this blog yet (computer won't go to it - doing this post by e-mail) but saw FishStripes, and wishing Mike good fortune in whatever he does (or posts) in the future.... Oh, and I just noticed, former Fish Ozzie's team won the Whole She-Bang, and seemingly celebrated by letting go of former Fish Carl Everett....And now, time for another lunch of charcoal-broiled sardines.

Possibly Hurricane-Truncated Blogging For a While

...as electricity may be a distant memory starting a few hours from now. Here's Game 2...

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

FISH-CAPS: Carl went 2 for 4 with a strikeout. Ozzie's team wins again. (Still blogging at 12:35 AM - worst part of the storm expected in the morning.)

What's Happening With Tony Saunders?

He signed with the Orioles earlier this year, pitched in the minors, but suffered serious back spasms in May. Now he's Director of Boxing Operations of "Ballroom Boxing" in "Mayland" (BoxingTalk)

Saturday's AFL Recaps

Josh Wilson homers! (OurSportsCentral)

Marlins In The World Series!

Well, former ones, anyway. On the White Sox there's Carl Everett and Pablo Ozuna, and of course Ozzie. On the Astros, well....

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

FISH-CAPS: Carl goes 1 for 3 with a strikeout. And Ozzie's team wins.

Urbina Either Thinks He Needs to Make His Points Using Machetes and Paint Thinner...

...or he is a Really Serious sleepwalker. (Deadspin)

It Has Been 10 Years...

...since the passing of original Marlins 1st-base coach Vada Pinson. (GoogleGroups)

Duquette Leaves Mets, Mazzone Leaves Braves

Both go to Baltimore. (NewsTribune)

Marlins in the AFL are Improving

(MLB)

God Hates the Cubs

Cubs fan self-importantly points the finger at the Head Honcho Himself. (MyrtleBeachSun)

The Real Reason to Root For The White Sox

"I want Fidel Castro to angrily toss his Soviet-era transistor radio out the window when he hears that two more Cuban defectors earned World Series rings." (NationalReview)

Yesterday's AFL Recaps

(No, not the Austrailian Football League...) (OurSportsCentral)

"Do Catchers Really Make the Best Managers?"

(BaseballMusings)

Joe to Run The Show

Marlins are having the press conference to introduce their new manager at 11 AM, just in time for the latest hurricane advisory. (MLB)

Back to the Ballpark That Beer Built

(Which team will end tonight's play feeling sadder Budweiser?)

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: Bye Bye Busch. Astros go to World Series.

FISH-CAP: Mabry bats once, strikes out. J. Tavares pitched 1.1 innings, gave up a hit and made a strikeout.

Accolades

Dontrelle is named winner of the Warren Spahn Award,...(FishStripes)

...(EDIT:) Lo Duca and Cabrera made the Sporting News' All- Star team,... (MLB)

...Beckett receives the Florida Marlins' "Thank God He's Not Damaged" Seal of Approval. (MLB)

...and Felix Heredia gets a 10-day vacation next year (if not more). (SunSentinel)

Monday's AFL Recap

(BaseballAmerica)

'Fish or Cut Bait' Blog Back in Business

(FishOrCutBait)...(Thanks, Deep Fried Fish.)

The Tales of Sir Guillen (and His Adventures With Marlins, the Magicians)

Sir Guillen Finds His Soul Mate ----- "'I still remember walking into that first clubhouse with Ozzie,' Torborg said. 'How young he looked, how little he looked. He was real thin, but he was so bright.'"(SunSentinel)


Sir Guillen Faces Tests of Honour on the Field of Battle ----- "You wouldn't think coaching third base is a dangerous job. But try doing it for the Florida Marlins in their own park with a crowd so small the guys in the upper deck betting $5s and $10s on whether the guy on second can score on a hit can talk directly with those on the field.

"'Hey Ozzie,' they'd yell at Ozzie Guillen while waving a fistful of bills. 'You send him.'

"Guillen would nod.

"Of course, there were others waving a fistful of singles telling Guillen to hold him.

"Guillen would nod.

"'It's dangerous down there,' Guillen said. 'I'm afraid to turn my back on those guys.'

"Then he laughed." (BradentonHerald)


Sir Guillen Gets His Ring ----- "I got an Atlanta Braves National League championship ring. When I went with the Marlins (2003 world champions), I didn't see that ring anymore. There's only one that counts. I wear it every day of my life. I feel proud to do it." (NWTimesOnline)


Sir Guillen Suffers Ultimate Disillusionment ----- "Baseball doesn't care about people. Ask (ex-Florida Marlins manager) Jack McKeon. He's a genius . . . and they kicked his (bleep) out of there in a hurry." (Sj-r.com)

4 Probably Gone, 5 Probably Staying, and 4 Absolute Maybes

Joe Frisaro handicaps the Fish's free agents. (Also including 50% more stadium suppositions). (MLB)

One More Astros Win = World Series in Chicago (and Houston, too)

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: At least one more game in old Busch Stadium coming up.

FISH-CAP: John Mabry went 0 for 1 with a strikeout.

Here's (the Day Before) Yesterday's AFL Wrapup

Josh Wilson and Robert Andino get RBI's. (BaseballAmerica)

Disney May Host World Baseball Classic Games

Remember the World Classic? That's the tournament where South Africa is in the Asian division. (GoogleMiamiHerald)

One More White Sox Win = World Series In Chicago

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: White Sox win.

FISH-CAPS: John Mabry went 0 for 4 with a strikeout, Carl Everett went 0 for 5 and struck out twice.

MSM Columnist Berardino 2 Days Behind 'FishStripes'...

(Fishstripes)...in his report discussing reactions to that awful announcer.

(Oh, and Andy Fox retires, too.)

More Playoffs!

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

FISH-CAPS: John Mabry goes 1 for 1 with an RBI, Julian Tavares pitched 1 inning and gave up 1 hit and made 1 strikeout, Carl Everett went 2 for 3 and walked once while getting 2 RBIs.

Marlins' Prospects in the AFL...

(a first-week report.) (WQAM)

Beckett on the 2003 'Card of Evil'

This year? Most likely Francisco Rodriguez. (BaseballMusings)

More Managerial Possibilities

Ron Hassey... (PalmBeachPost)

...Marty Scott... (SunSentinel)

...Ken Macha (no, wait, strike that.)... (Tallahassee.com)

Tonight, Los Angeles of Anaheim vs. South Side of Chicago

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

FISH-CAP: Everett went 1 for 4 with an RBI and a strikeout.

Historical Account of the Magic of Doug Eddings...

...performed on June 30, 2005 against the Braves in Miami. (GoogleAjc.Com)

(Link inspired by the 'Doug Eddings Is A Douche' insta-blog.)

MORE: And guess who was involved in the 'Wandy to the lip' call against the Astros on Sept. 13? (GoogleNCTimes)

Tonight, Astros at Girardi...Oops, I Mean ST.LOUIS

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)

FISH-CAP: Julian Tavares pitched 1 inning and gave up 2 earned runs on 3 hits, John Mabry was brought in to play right field in the top of the 9th and ended the game with a groundout in the bottom of the 9th.

NL Source: Jeffrey Wants Girardi

Fish may talk to Bryan Price, may keep Mark Wiley. (SunSentinel)

Marlins Source: Girardi Not a Done Deal

Pavano called Loria recommending Girardi. (GoogleMiamiHerald)

Perry Hill Discusses Marlins' Gold Glove Chances

(MLB)

Split-Screen Baseball Tonight

Both games are tentatively starting at 8:05 PM.

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: St. Louis and White Sox win. Didn't find any former Fish.

Another Record-Breaking Year For Alfonseca

(MaverickBall)

Girardi A Done Deal??

"According to industry sources, Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria has made Girardi an offer the Yankees bench coach is likely to accept." (NYPost)

No Wiley in Seattle

"Mark Wiley, recently fired by the Florida Marlins, was Hargrove's pitching coach with Cleveland and Baltimore. The two remain friends, but Wiley removed himself from the running because he wants to stay near his family in Florida." (NewsTribune)

Al Leiter Still Talking

"There would have to be a lot of talking to convince me to come back." (AsburyParkPress)

Second Round Begins

The "What city are we in today?" Angels play the White Sox in Chicago.

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: Angels win.

FISH-CAP: Carl Everett went 1 for 4 and scored a run. Pablo Ozuna ran for Everett in the bottom of the 9th.

Who Would Want to Manage the Marlins, When You Could Manage the Devil Rays?

...(or vice versa.) (DRayBay)

'Deep Fried Fish' Declared 'Tastiest Blog'

...in the MLBlogs 'Bloggies' awards. (DeepFriedFish)(MLB)

IN OTHER BLOG NEWS: FishStripes' Mike explains 'what went wrong', over at Baseball Analysts.

Marlins May Give Up, But NASCAR Fans Keep Believing

Daytona Beach hoping for a special legislative session to again push for their museum proposal. (NewsJournal)

Interviews Begin

Gonzales and Washington show their stuff today. (SunSentinel)

MEANWHILE, Mike Berardino reminds us that the Marlins already had the perfect manager. (SunSentinel)

OH, OH..: Girardi quoted as wanting Don Zimmer as his bench coach. (PalmBeachPost) (So much for his youth movement.)

Former Fish Fleeing Leyland-Dombrowski Alliance

Al Avila may try for the Diamondbacks. Larry Rothschild says 'no, thanks' and is staying with the Cubs. Gary Knotts gets released. Vic Darensbourg becomes a free agent. (Freep.com)

Yankees and Angels Tonight

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: Yanks lose. Angels advance to face White Sox.

FISH-CAPS: Sheffield went 3 for 5.

Problems in Proposed Minor-League Shakeup

For example, the Jamestown Jammers may have trouble finding a place to sleep. (BuffaloNews)

A Rather Rich Fellow Has Moved to Miami,...

...someone who seems to have a pattern of trying to acquire MLB teams - "Any doubts about my ability to buy a team have been removed." (MSNBC)

Braves Face Elimination, While Yankees Face Elimination or Rainout

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: Bye Bye Braves.

FISH-CAPS: Sheffield went 1 for 4 and scored an RBI, Leiter pitches a perfect two-thirds of an inning and gets the win.

Are We Experienced?

Or are we going with youth? Enquiring minds (and managers) want to know. (SunSentinel)

QUOTE: "When you have youth, you have energy,"..."When you play 162 games, energy is really important. Kids don't get tired." - Joe Girardi (Newsday)

Oh, Boy! An 11:05 P.M. Start!!

(If the game goes extra innings it may run into Sunday School.)

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: Padres out, Cardinals continue on.

FISH-CAPS: Rudy Seanez pitched 2 innings and gave up no runs and 1 hit and struck out 2, Julian Tavares pitched a third-of-an-inning and gave up 1 earned run (a homer) and 2 hits, Trevor Hoffman goes one inning and gives up one hit.

Jim Leyland Has Made an Impression

"What the hell happened to this man? He's a shell of what he was. He showed absolutely no passion or the attitude you would expect of a man just named to a team that will spend money and a team that needs a manager to put a foot in the ass's of Magglio Ordonez and Pudge Rodriguez. I don't think Leyland can raise his leg to put foot to ass. I have to say I was shocked looking at Leyland and hearing him on TV." (EddieKranepoolSociety)

Twins May Be Interested in Conine

(GoogleMercuryNews)

Girardi Talks With 'Luria'

He also plans to talk with happy former Marlin Al Leiter. (MLB)

UPDATE: It appears a proofreader has adjusted the problem.

Say, What About That New Stadium at FAU?

(From a discussion thread over at FishStripes.)

Will Wakefield Knuckle Under?

Red Sox on the ropes as the American League plays tonight.

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: White Sox advance to next round.

FISH-CAPS: Carl Everett went 0 for 3, Edgar Renteria went 0 for 4 with a strikeout and a walk, Kevin Millar played first base in the 9th and didn't come to bat, Mike Myers came in the 6th and walked A.J. Pierzynski, Gary Sheffield went 0 for 4 with a strikeout and a walk, Aaron Small pitched 2.2 innings and gave up 2 earned runs on 4 hits and gets the loss (but he also get 2 strikeouts), Al Leiter goes 1.1 innings and gets a strikeout but gives up 2 earned runs on a hit and a walk (both of those runs scored after Leiter left, however).

Marlins' 2005 TV Ratings Highest Ever

MLB playoff ratings are up, too, but will rain dampen the weekend? (SunSentinel)

Former Marlin Discusses Former Marlin...

...or regional director discusses recently-hired manager. (Mlive.Com)

Is Fredi Redi?

Braves allow Gonzales to speak with Marlins. (MLB)

ALSO: Add to the list of probables the names Ron Washington, Billy Hatcher, Tom Foley... (SunSentinel)

Only National League Play Today

(All right! REAL Baseball!)

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

FISH-CAPS: Rudy Seanez pitched 1 inning and gave up 2 earned runs on 2 hits and a walk (he also had 2 strikeouts), Julian Tavares pitched 1 inning and gave up an earned run on 2 hits and a walk.

Yankees Will Let Marlins Talk to Girardi for Manager's Job

Fish may also be interested in Lou Piniella, Ken Macha, Jim Tracy, Fredi Gonzalez,....(NYTimes)

...Grady Little,... (PalmBeachPost)

...Jerry Manuel, John McLaren, Joey Cora... (SunSentinel)

A Less-Worshipful Review of the Recent Career of 'Jackass Jack'

"(H)e really came undone in the heat of the wild card race. The once-endearing crustiness started sounding mean and petty. His constant cigar-smoking and gum-chewing suddenly seemed like a weird oral fetish. And his decisions, literally pitch perfect two years ago, began to trigger wicked flashbacks to Jeff Torberg, the IQ-wanting fellow he replaced." (BrowardNewTimes)

Today's Postseason Play

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

FISH-CAPS: Edgar went 2 for 5 and scored a run, Carl went 2 for 4 and scored a run, Gary gets an RBI on a groundout but goes 0 for 4, Al pitches 1 inning and gives up a homer to Bengie Molina.

What Parts of The Country Supports Which Teams?

Participate in this project and maybe we'll all get some idea....(CommonCensus.Org)

Mets Fans Argue On Whether Delgado Would've Been Better Off in NY...

...and then swerve into a Kenny Rogers ramble. (GoogleGroups)

Oops, Almost Forgot, There's Playoffs Today...

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

FISH-CAP: Matt Clement gives up 8 runs in 3.1 innings, Edgar Renteria goes 1 for 4, Kevin Millar goes 1 for 3 with an RBI, Carl Everett goes 1 for 4, Gary Sheffield goes 2 for 4 with a strikeout, Al Leiter gets a strikeout in two-thirds of an inning.

Marlins Release Riedling, Spooneybarger...

...and Albuquerque infielder Derek Wathan. (MLB)

ANOTHER RELEASE: This is a Warning - if you don't want to read an embarrassing, pitiful, blatant attempt to pull on your heartstrings for sympathy and cash, then Please Don't look at the comments on this post. I said Don't Look!! Remember, You have been Warned!

Andy Lavin Remembers 2003 and the McKeon Influence

(MarlinsToday)

ADIOS, JACK! Happy Lawn Mowing To You!

Dave George on McKeon's impact. (PalmBeachPost)

The Day All Dolphins Fans Have Been Waiting For Has Arrived,...

...that date every year when MLB shuts down in FLA, and gets out of JRS (or PPS, or WTF or whatever).

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

HAPPY RECAP: Marlins sweep the Braves, and take a 3-game win streak into April 3rd.

Thank You, DeadSpin...

..for the mention of this site on your site.

Random Jabber About Next Year's Schedule

The Marlins play 15 of their first 21 games on the road, which in April may make for chilly times in Philly, New York, Cincinatti and (BRRRRRR!!) Chicago. At least the schedule-makers wised up in one respect - they have Colorado playing in Florida at the end of April, and not the other way around as in this year's snowbound fiasco.

Again with the 2-game series around May 1st? This year's convolution goes like this - after the aforementioned home series with Colorado the Fish play Philly at home for 2, fly immediately up to Washington to play the Nats for 2, then fly immediately back down to Florida to play 3 against the Cardinals.

The Fish' first West-Coast road trip (June 1 -12) gives them an off-day between the Giants and Padres series, but there's no off-day during their 2nd (August 7 - 17), even though after playing the Nationals their next stop the next day is in Arizona.

The Fish have 12 off-days before the All-Star game, and 8 off-days after. They have 3 non-travel days off before the All-Star break and only one after (August 24). For the last 34 days of the season the Marlins have only 2 days off, both of them travel days. Offsetting that somewhat, they play 25 of their last 41 games at home.

Here's more on the 2006 Schedule. (FishStripes)

Today - Sosa Vs. Vargas,...Phillies Try To Catch Astros...

...oh, and some other games, too.

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: Betimit may need a better mitt. Wilson lets popup drop, allowing a Marlins victory!

Biff McKeon Says Brother Jack is Getting 'Kind of Tired'...

...and that other people usually get kind of tired of Brother Jack. (SunSentinel)

2005's Final Series Starts Tonight

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: J. J. wins when A. J. hasn't. (EDIT: Well, he didn't lose, anyway.) Marlins locked in titanic struggle with Nats and Mets to stay out of last place.

Marlins' Next Manager Officially Escapes

He can give us all the ins-and-outs on how to beat the Devil Rays. (MLB)

BREAKING NEWS!: Mr. Samson's Win Prediction Last April Was a Little Off

(PastPost)

They're Still Playing Games?

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: Well, the Fish didn't play last night. That's why they didn't lose. Brewers vying to be next team to pass Marlins in WC standings.

Rap Sheet on MIGUEL CABRERA:

July, August - Suspect CABRERA stops shagging fly balls.

Early Sept. - Suspect CABRERA arrived on the field for stretching and was kicking a soccer ball.

Mid Sept. - Suspect CABRERA arrived in clubhouse shortly before stretching and announced, "Don't worry, guys, I'm here. Don't worry."

20Sept05 - Suspect CABRERA "blew off stretching"

22Sept05 - Suspect CABRERA failed to report on time for treatment a day after fouling a ball off knee; Manager MCKEON takes Suspect CABRERA out of lineup.

25Sept05 - Suspect CABRERA arrived at ballpark 45 min. before game time in Atlanta; claimed he overslept.

26Sept05 - Manager MCKEON benches Suspect CABRERA for one game.

27Sept05 - Suspect CABRERA interviewed by reporter; Suspect CABRERA momentarily switches from Spanish to English to deliver an expletive.

28Sept05 - Suspect CABRERA scolded by teammates in closed-door meeting; Suspect CABRERA says that he was misquoted; Suspect CABRERA hits home run; Manager MCKEON says Suspect CABRERA is "a fine young man."

- (PalmBeachPost)

Will The Fish Fall to Fifth in the East?

(Or how about Sixth in the Wild Card?...)

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

CHANT: 'We're Number FIVE!! We're Number FIVE!!..'

Delgado, Lowell, Castillo, Lo Duca and Villone

These five guys are getting the lion's share of the Marlins' future payroll. (GoogleMiamiHerald)

Tuesday's Matchups/Games

Just one scintilla of hope left, and with the Mets and Nats close to overtaking the Fish...

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

BYE-BYE SEASON: The fat lady sings, with the volume set to 11. Mets jump past Marlins into 3rd place.

Welcome to 'Instant Offseason!'

A. J. who? And Cabrera, too? (SunSentinel)

McKeon "subdued"? McKeon did "a lot of thinking"? McKeon not telling people something? (SunSentinel)

Washington at Florida, Mets at Philadelphia, Colorado at Atlanta,...

...tomorrow Houston at St. Louis, but here's today's games...

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

WHATEVER: Marlins, Phillies, Braves lose - Mets and Nats win.

David Pinto Wonders What La Russa Will Do Against The Astros

(Baseball)(Musings)

Burnett Fumes

(SunSentinel)(PalmBeachPost)(GoogleMiamiHerald)

MORE: "Burnett also ranks among the NL leaders with 79 walks, including four Sunday. He walked Chipper Jones to open the fourth inning and pinch-hitter Kelly Johnson to open the seventh, when the Braves took the lead. Both runners scored." (Covers.com)

Fred Grimm Reviews the Stadium-Shelter Proposal

(GoogleMiamiHerald)

For Anyone Who's Interested...

...here's today's slate.

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECRAP: Marlins, Nats, Astros lose. Braves, Phillies, Mets win.

A Thot

My Mets-fan friend, a serious baseball purist (he wants all baseball records from 1988 to today stamped with a 'steriods' asterisk), brought up something to me that's probably already been talked to death, but that I thought had legitimacy.

Right now there are 5 NL teams with win-loss records better than or equal to the San Diego Padres who have little or no chance of making the postseason, while San Diego is pretty close to being a shoe-in.

This is true obviously because the Padres are the leaders in the NL West, which is a supposedly 'weaker' division.

But the fact that San Diego plays the majority of their games against these so-called 'weaker' opponents and still can only muster a .500 record makes their playoff status sound even more like a joke.

Is that right? Is that fair?

It doesn't matter - it's the way baseball is right now. The Powers That Be love the divisional setup, the unbalanced schedules, and the supposedly 'natural' rivalries.

Which means one possible way to let fairness matter will likely never be considered - that is, abandon the divisions, or make all the teams in a league one whole division, and let the 4 teams with the best win-loss records in each league go to the playoffs.

Say, what about the excitement the the Wild Card races? Well, what would the difference be between a race for the Wild Card and a race for Fourth Place? I'll tell you - the race for 4th place would probably be just as exciting, with the sure benefit of having the teams with the best records playing in the postseason.

This may sound like sour grapes, as if baseball should reorganize itself just because of my desire to make the Marlins' misfortunes this year less daunting. But remember, if everything suddenly magically transformed to the way I'm proposing right now, the Fish would still be 3 games out of the playoffs with 7 games to go, which wouldn't really be that much of a help.

And it was my Mets-fan friend who wants this, and the Mets are even farther back.

8 Games Left, 4 Games Back....Piece of Cake

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECRAP: Yeah, piece of cake....a big fat piece of fried-out fish cake. Marlins lose, Astros win, Phillies lose.

Friday Baseball

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECRAP: GROAN!!! Even Dave Van Horne throws in the towel. Marlins, Astros lose - Phillies win.

Coming Up This Weekend...

Marlins at Braves - "Atlanta, which is in the middle of a nine-game homestand, is 49-26 in its friendly confines this season. Atlanta is 7-5 against the Marlins this season and 21-10 versus them since the start of last season, including a 12-3 home record." (SportsNetwork)

Houston at Cubs - "Chicago, which is beginning a five-game homestand, is just 36-40 at Wrigley Field this season. The Cubs own a slight 5-4 advantage in this series in 2005, including a 2-1 home mark. Chicago is 24-20 against Houston since the start of the 2003 campaign." (SportsNetwork)

Phillies at Reds - "Cincinnati improved to 41-37 at home for the season, assuring its first winning home record for the first time since they went 43-38 in 2000. The Reds will be closing out their home slate this weekend. These teams split four meetings in Philadelphia in May. Since the start of last season, the squads have each won five contests in the set." (SportsNetwork)

Can the Fat Lady Be Silenced?

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: Well, maybe she's taking a bon-bon break. Fish, Phillies, Astros win.

Oh, I Get It....They're Just Trying To Build Up The Suspense....Yeah, That Must Be It...

(Hope they don't build much more.)

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECRAP!!!: AAAARGH!! Stick a fork in the fat lady! She's singing!

Mike Gives Up!

(FishStripes)

And so does Dan Le Batard. (GoogleMiamiHerald)

Tonight's Matchups/Scores

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECRAP: Marlins and Phillies and Nats lose, Astros win.

"Listen, There's Never A Weather Problem On The Sofa."

Marlins pile up both empty seats and monster ratings. (PalmBeachPost)

Coming Up To The Plate...

Marlins at Mets - After starting off the year 3-6 against New York, Florida has beat the Mets 2 games out of 3 in their last 2 series.

Phillies at Braves - The Braves and Phillies have alternated winning and losing series all year - Phils won 2-of-3 in the middle of April, Braves swept 3 at the end of April, Phillies win 2-of-3 at the end of May (the last time they played in Turner Field), Braves win 2-of-3 at the start of July, and the Phillies won 3-of-4 just last week.

San Francisco at Washington - The Nats won 2-of-3 from the Giants May 6-8 (but they didn't have to contend with Barry Bonds).

Houston at Pittsburgh Starting 4-Gamer Tonight

Pittsburgh won 2-of-3 from Houston August 12-14 (yay), but the Astros swept 4 from the Pirates the last time they were in Pittsburgh (yuck).

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: YIPPIE!! Pirates skewer Astros, Fish now 2 back. Great way to celebrate 'Talk Like a Pirate Day'.

The Grass is Crap

ALSO...A. J. has figured it out, while Dontrelle and Josh are slated for overtime. (PalmBeachPost)

Will the Marlins' Off-Season Start Tonight?

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: Not yet! Marlins squeak by the Phillies, 14-6. But Houston wins also, while Nats lose.

Help, D-Train!! Save Us!!

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECRAP: Well, he tried. Oh Lord, how did he try! But sometimes the gas runs out and the balls slip by and the world ends up collapsing. Fish 2.5 games behind Houston, 2 behind Phils.

15 Games To Go, Half-Game Out

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: Marlin's brilliant strategy of getting the rest of this season's losses out of their system continues. Fish now 1.5 games behind WC leader Astros, 1 behind Phils.

Next Serii...

Phillies at Marlins - Fish lost 2 of 3 at Philly last week but are 4-2 against them in South Florida this year.

Brewers at Astros - Houston lost 2 of 3 from Miwaukee last week but are 4-2 against them in Texas this year.

Nationals at Padres - The Padres swept 3 from the Nats at RFK August 5-7, their only meeting this year.

Braves at Mets - Atlanta swept 3 from New York at Turner Field August 5-7. They last played at Shea July 14-17, and split the series 2-2.

Here Comes the Wild Card's Bald Dog - You Know You Don't Wanna Pettitte

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECRAP: Astros beat Marlins, Braves beat Phillies, Fish now tied with Philly, a half-game behind Houston.

Tonight: Burnett vs. Clemens in Houston, Ramirez vs. Lidle in Philly

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: Clemens pitched what will be another chapter in his future biographies last night. Fish now tied with Phillies for the WC lead, the Astros a half-game behind.

Bye Bye Ballpark - The Continuing Saga

"'I am not optimistic regarding the future of the ballpark project at the Orange Bowl,' County Manager George Burgess wrote to county commissioners.

"'As currently contemplated, the ballpark project requires substantial public funding and financing and I think we have reached the limits of our ability to contribute in a responsible manner to this project.'...

"Burgess said a previous funding gap of up to $45 million for a 38,000-seat, retractable-roof stadium to open in 2008, could reach $100 million since a stadium could not be ready before 2009....

"The Marlins, Burgess wrote, 'did not seem willing to continue to work to find a way to resolve the issues and are reluctant to further expend money and resources on the project.'

"Marlins executives declined to comment. City of Miami officials have also said they cannot contribute more." (SunSentinel)

Hey, A. J., No Reason to Put Any Pressure on Yourself...

...just don't think about today's being the BIGGEST GAME OF YOUR LIFE!!! (GoogleMiamiHerald)

...and Phil Garner's is only 'adamant' in thinking Clemens will be starting tonight. (HoustonChronicle)

Good Start, But Still 3 Games Left in Texas, Starting Tonight

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: One more win under Marlins' belt, but Philly wins, too, and is just a game behind.

Quake in Fear, Opposing Teams - Hear Comes The Mordecai!!!

(SunSentinel)

Marlins Giving Of Themselves

(FishStripes)..."the first major-league baseball team to visit with Hurricane Katrina evacuees." - Houston Chronicle

This Year's Astros vs. Last Year's Astros

"Perhaps more than any other contending team, with the possible exception of Cleveland, the Astros are an unknown quantity." (HoustonChronicle)

"I Can't Get Any More Intense Than I am Right Now, or I'll Lose my Mind."

A complete game, a home run, and a team scoring runs behind him brings a big 'W' to D-Train and the Fish. (HoustonChronicle)

And now we know the secret to his success - his Ankle Supports! (CourierJournal)

19 Games To Go, Half-Game Out

PREDICTION: I won't be writing 'half-game out' tomorrow.

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: Fish WIN, and are on top of the Wild Card standings by one brilliant, shining, enormous half-game. Phillies win also and sneak up a half-game behind the Astros.

FROM OUR CRACK STAT DEPT.

Astros' and Marlins' win-loss totals against ONLY opponents that they both faced, and ONLY in the stadiums that they both played in.
(Basically all away games except the Houston series in Florida, and no interleague games.)

Totals - Marlins 33-35, Astros 28-35

(Overall On The Road - Marlins 35-36, Astros 30-42)

Astros' and Marlins' win-loss totals against ONLY opponents that they both faced, no matter where they played.
(This includes the above numbers plus the home games of those teams, and Texas, who both Florida and Houston played but not in the same stadium.)

Totals - Marlins 68-63, Astros 71-63

(Overall - Marlins 76-67, Astros 76-66)

Coming Up...

Florida at Houston - In 2005 the Marlins have faced the Astros for one series in fabulous Miami Gardens on May 9 - 11, with the Fish winning 2 games out of 3.

Atlanta at Philadelphia - The last time these two teams matched up was in Philly at the beginning of July - Atlanta won 2 out of the 3 games. Overall the Phils are 5-7 against the Braves this year.

Washington at New York - The Nats return to Shea Stadium, where they lost 2 out of 3 games to the Mets last month. So far Washington is 5-8 against the Mets this season.

Ernie Harwell Praises Len Casper

"I have a feeling he'll be in Chicago as the TV voice of the Cubs for a long time." (DetroitFreePress)

Oh, Oh, It's Coin-Flipping Time

Time to see where the Fish'll play in case of a playoff....Also a few (stinking) expletives from Jack. (GoogleMiamiNews)

It may not matter, as none of the wild-card contenders are playing at postseason levels. (Zwire.com)

20 Games to Go, Half-Game Out

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECRAP: Fish L-O-S-E! And so does Houston (whoopee), and the Nats. Mets and Phillies win.

21 Games to Go, Half-Game Out

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: Fish and Houston wins. Philly drops, Braves beat Nats. And St. Louis beat some other team.

Tonight's Menu

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

PARTIAL-CAP: Is A.J. Burnett really 'a burnt jet'? Fish, Braves, Mets lose - Philly, Nats win.

END-CAP: Houston loses, too. Didn't lose ground, lost opportunity.

2 More Fish Games on Sun Sports, But Are They In The Future or In The Past?

Quotes from article:

"The cable channel is to televise Marlins road games against the Houston Astros on Wednesday, Sept. 14, and against the New York Mets on Wednesday, Sept. 21."

Okay, cool. Where's that VCR remote?

"The Aug. 14 telecast starts at 8 p.m. and the Aug. 21 telecast starts at 7 p.m., both Eastern time."

WHA? Huh? August?? Do I need a time machine now?

"Neither game was scheduled for FSN Florida or the Florida "i" network stations..."

Well, I guess it's hard to schedule something that seems to be occuring in parallel dimensions.

"Announcers for the two games are to be Rich Waltz and Tommy Hutton..."

...with possible guest appearance by Rod Serling.

More Weekend Matchups

Marlins at Philadelphia - The Fish had won 3 straight series against the Phillies this year, then lost their last one in Philadelphia July 14-17, winning 1 game out of 4. Overall the Marlins lead the series 7-6. The Fish are on a 3-game win streak, the Phillies a 5-game losing streak.

Atlanta at Washington - The Nats are the only NL East team that doesn't have a losing record this year against Atlanta (they're 8-8). They just finished splitting a 4-game series (with a doubleheader) August 30 - September 1 at Turner Field, and the Braves swept the Nats there for 3 at the end of July. The last time Atlanta was at RFK (May 30 - June 2) the Braves lost 3 out of 4. Atlanta's won their last 3 games, Washington lost their last 3 (Yeah, Marlins!)

Houston at Milwaukee - The Astros and Brewers last played each other August 18-21 at Houston, where they split a 4-game series. Houston won 2 out of 3 at Milwaukee May 27-29. Along with a 2-game sweep at home in April, the Astros now are leading the season series 6-3. Houston has swept 2 of their last 3 series' opponents, while Milwaukee's won 4 of their last 7 games.

Astros Idle, But It Looks Like a Tough Game Tonight

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: Not so tough! Fish WIN, and are a Half-game back in Wild Card.

Some Fun With Anagrams

With help from the Internet Anagram Server...

Josh Beckett - THE BEST JOCK

A. J. Burnett - A BURNT JET

Dontrelle Willis - WIDE LENTILS ROLL, SWELLED TRILLION, INSTILLED ORWELL, NOSTRIL LIED WELL, LOWELL ISNT IDLER

Mike Lowell - LIKE MELLOW

Todd Jones - NO ODD JEST, JED DO SNOT

Miguel Cabrera - ARGUABLE CRIME, AMERICA BUGLER, CURABLE MIRAGE, ARAB MICE GRUEL, LABIA CREME RUG, CIGAR LAME RUBE

McKeon - CONK 'EM

Weekend Matchups - Early Edition

Mets at St. Louis - The Mets drag their collective carcasses to St. Louis tonight. New York has lost their last 3 games and have lost 9 of 12 since sweeping Arizona at the BOB. St. Louis just finished losing 2 of 3 from the Cubs at home. The only time this year the Mets faced the Cardinals was at Shea May 13-15, where St. Louis won 2 out of 3 games.

D-Train Trying For Twenty Tonight

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: He does it! Astros and Atlanta complete the sweeps.

At This Moment...

...on Tuesday afternoon, CoolStandings has Houston the odds-on (51%) favorite to win the Wild Card.

MORE!: As of Wednesday morning the Astros' chances are up to 60%. No wonder - Houston's on the verge of sweeping the Phillies for the second time this year. And the Phils aren't one of those sub-.500 teams the Astros are supposed to stomp all over.

Tuesday's Games

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECAP: Fish win! So do Astros. Nats, Phils, Mets lose.

"Who Scored The First Run In Florida Marlins' Organizational History Back In 1992?"

...and what is he doing now? (TheTimesOnline)

The Marlins Need Some More Discord

Hey, it seems to work for the Nats. (TimesDispatch)

Alex And Mike On The Bench

Wilson and Mordacai are coming. (SunSentinel)

Todd Jones on The Perils of Playing in (previously) Pro Player Park

(PalmBeachPost)

Labor Day Play

(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RECRAP: Nats beat Fish! Astros beat Philly! Braves beat Mets!

Next Up...

Marlins at Washington - Fish are 6-5 this year against the Nats, beating them 2 games to 1 in their most recent series in late July, but getting swept 3 games by Washington the last time they were in RFK in early June.

Houston at Philadelphia - Their only meeting was on July 25-27 at Houston, where the trio of Pettitte, Oswalt and Clemens combined to sweep the Phillies. (Pettitte and Oswalt are scheduled on this go-around).

Mets at Atlanta - Mets are 4-9 against Atlanta this year. In their last series (July 14-17) they split 4 games at Shea. But the Mets suffered a 3-game sweep on their last trip to Atlanta in May.