Wednesday, May 23, 2007

Jason Vargas to Pitch Against Marlins?

According to Willie Randolph he will, but only if El Duque is not ready to pitch on Friday. (SILive.com)

Is 'HanRam' the Next MVP?

'jonnylons' lays out the evidence, including this nugget...

"18% of the Marlins runs scored (217)...are scored by Hanley Ramirez. That means almost 2 out of every 5 runs the Marlins score will see Ramirez cross the plate." (MarlinsNation)

Tuesday, May 22, 2007

The Phillies Arrive

Hamels vs. Olsen tonight...both pitchers have been on a roll lately.

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

STILL-ROLLING: Marlins roll over Phillies 5-3. Mets lose to Braves. Nats win.

Things Put Together into One Post

The attendance for the Marlins-Pirates series was the "smallest for any four-game set at PNC Park in four years. ..."

Our new tattooed wonder was in Phillies' minor-league camp this spring....

The pride of Monterey Peninsula College, Mitch MacDonald, signs with the Marlins...

"(U)niversity insiders privately say UM's days in the venerable stadium (the Orange Bowl) are numbered"....

Play Florida Marlins Trivia!...

Monday, May 21, 2007

Day Off

Washington's at Cincinatti - that's the only game with a NL East team for tonight.

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

OKAY: Former Marlin David Weathers gets the save as the Reds beat the Nats.

Reports

Linden's happy to be with the Marlins, but now Borchard may be 'superfluous'; Cody's suffered a setback; Josh J. has been throwing, and so will Anibal; and De Aza still runs with pain. (SunSentinel)

Saturday, May 19, 2007

Game Two at the Trop

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

WIN-TWO-AT-THE-TROP: Marlins win 7-2. Braves win a game and lose a game. Mets win; Phillies and Nats lose.

Marlins Claim Todd Linden

John Gall was designated for assignment. (FishStripes)

'"I know our people like him, and they feel like he can help this ballclub, so why not?" (Fredi) Gonzalez said. "From what I understand, he’s more of a contact guy."

'Linden will likely fill the role of fourth or fifth outfielder and play the corner spots. If necessary, Gonzalez said, Linden would also be used for pinch-hitting off the bench.' (Kitsapsun.com)

Friday, May 18, 2007

Kim Begins His Marlins Career

The world, though, will be watching across the bay as Clemens starts for the Tampa Yankees. But hey, it's Wrestling Night in Tropicana Field.

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

NICE-BEGINNING: Fish beat the Rays 8-4. Philly and the Mets won, Nats lose, Atlanta was postponed.

Who Running This Ship Anyway?

Mike Berardino hates Fredi moving Hanley out of leadoff. (SunSentinelBlog)

Kranitz didn't seem to know Kim's record as a starter verses a reliever. (SunSentinel)

Fredi, with 2 on and 2 out, sends up to pinch-hit someone who's never had a major-league at-bat before. (MarlinsToday)

Thursday, May 17, 2007

Ricky vs. Tony Tonight

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

SPLITSVILLE: Fish lose 7-2 and split their series with the Pirates. Marlins now have to sweep the Devil Rays to return home with a 50-50 split on the road trip. Good thing that the Marlins are leaving town tonight, because the $3 mangoes arrive in Pittsburgh tomorrow, and the aftershocks of this could be devastating. Atlanta and Philly loses - Nats and Mets win.

Notes

One of the better lead-off hitters in the game is hitting 3rd for a while, Josh Johnson continues to improve, and the Devil Rays will be getting back to Tropicana a little faster. (PalmBeachPost)

The Local Report

Miami-Dade County Commissioner Dennis Moss wants the Marlins to change their name to 'Miami Marlins' AND move their spring training games to Homestead.

'Both changes would help give the Marlins a stronger local identity and attract fans in South Miami-Dade, Mr. Moss said.

'The team is "not tied to a specific part of the community," Mr. Moss said Monday. "If we put up the money to build a stadium in Miami-Dade, the name should be changed."

'While the name change would strengthen the team's ties to local fans, bringing Grapefruit League baseball to Homestead offers tangible benefits such as tourist tax revenue that would be used to help fund the county's share of a new stadium, Mr. Moss said.'

Here's something I didn't know: 'Mr. Loria, who has an ownership interest in Roger Dean (!), was not available to confirm if there would be any restrictions on moving the Marlins' spring training to Homestead.' (MiamiToday)

MEANWHILE: The neighbors are getting P-O'ed over those middle-of-the-night Saturday Fireworks shows. (MiamiHerald)

Wednesday, May 16, 2007

Olsen (Maybe) vs. Duke Tonight

Scott's bruised heel hurt so bad that he's in pain from walking on his toes to avoid walking on his heel. Somehow he may be able to crawl out to the mound tonight.

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

YIPPIE-OUCH: Well, Scott didn't crawl in, but he was close to crawling off after being hit by a liner on his good leg. Marlins make it past the Pirates 4-3. Nats top the Braves. Philly and Mets win.

Injury Update

Jacobs may go on the DL for his thumb, Scott's foot hurts, Dontrelle's nail's broken, and Owens is working hard despite his injury. (MLB)

Oh yeah, and Miguel's too fat. (SunSentinel)

Tuesday, May 15, 2007

Mitre vs. Maholm Tonight

Time to get back that 'swagger', as Dontrelle puts it. Although it may still be tough going, as the Fish historically have stunk in Pittsburgh - "They are 21-42 there and have lost 14 of 20 in PNC Park."

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

TAKE THAT, HISTORY: Fish wallop the Pirates 9-3 - 4 homers by Marlins hitters, no walks given up by Mitre, Pinto or Gregg. Atlanta beat the Nats, Philly wins, Mets lose.

Monday, May 14, 2007

Next...

The Marlins (16-21; road record 6-10) start a series tonight at Pittsburgh (16-20; home record 6-10). Dontrelle (5-2, 5.40) goes up against Tom Gorzelanny (4-2, 2.72).

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

THE-PITTS: Marlins get 6 hits, strike out 7 times, suffer through a bullpen collapse, and lose to the Pirates 7-0. Nats continue to roll, this time over Atlanta. Phillies and Mets win.

Sunday, May 13, 2007

Marlins Trade You-Know-Julio to Rockies

In return the Fish get Byung-Hyun Kim. Here's what's being written about him...

"Kim, who will become a free agent at the end of the year, will make $2.5 million this year.

"Kim, who hasn't pitched since April 15, has been on the disabled list with a contusion on his hand" (MiamiHerald)

"(W)ith Class AAA Colorado Springs, Kim went 1-1 with a 2.96 ERA while pitching 24 1/3 innings during five rehab starts.

"The contusion 'has completely resolved itself and he is healthy,' (Michael) Hill said...

"Kim, a side-arm and under-arm hard thrower who uses a great variety of deliveries, suffered two humiliating setbacks while pitching for the Diamondbacks in the 2001 World Series against the Yankees.

"In Game 4 he gave up a two-out, two-run home run to Tino Martinez in the bottom of the ninth that allowed the Yankees to tie the game. He served up another home run hit by Derek Jeter in the bottom of the tenth that let the Yankees tie the Series.

"In Game 5, Kim gave up a two-run home run to Scott Brosius that allowed the Yankees to tie the game with two outs in the ninth. The Yankees won that game in 12 innings, but the Diamondbacks went on to win the series in seven games."(PalmBeachPost)

"'B.K. Kim has always been a versatile pitcher,' Hill said. 'We've always liked him. We think he will help our staff.

"'He started and relieved. After we discuss things with Fredi and Kranny [pitching coach Rick Kranitz], we'll see how he fits. He can do both.'

"When the Marlins obtained Julio, they picked up $2.5 million of the right-hander's $3.6 million deal, with Arizona taking on $1.1 million. Kim is making $2.5 million, so his money pretty much matches what Julio is making...

"Ricky Nolasco, who threw four innings in Saturday's twice rain-delayed game, didn't look right in his outing. His velocity was down.

"While Nolasco says he is working on his mechanics, the team is cautious about the 24-year-old being ready for his next scheduled start, which would be Thursday at Pittsburgh.

"Kim... would be available to start for the Marlins on Thursday if Nolasco isn't ready.

"Nolasco spent time earlier this season on the disabled list with a sore elbow.

"Kim is expected to join the Marlins on Tuesday in Pittsburgh." (MLB)

By the way, what about Yusmeiro, who the Marlins traded away to get Julio? How is he faring? According to this article he's 2-3 with an ERA of 7.20 for Tucson of the PCL, and he'll be starting Monday night.

MORE: "Kim's career numbers suggest the Marlins might be better off letting him pitch in relief. In 66 career starts, Kim is 17-29 with a 4.89 ERA (3692/3 innings). In 359 innings out of the bullpen, Kim is 28-25 with a 3.48 ERA, 86 saves in 110 chances and a .201 opponents' average. Opponents hit 76 points higher off him as a starter." (SunSentinel)

Salvage Operation

The Marlins try to get a win in Washington today. Pink bats will be in evidence.

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

SUNK: Washington sweeps out the Marlins - Fish have now lost 7 of their last 9 games. Mets win, Atlanta and Philadelphia loses.

Life With Juan Pierre's Head

(PalmBeachPost)

Saturday, May 12, 2007

Road Tripped-Up

Last night the Marlins were shutout for the first time this season, and broke the Nats' eight-game losing streak to boot. Tonight it's Nolasco vs. Chico. (The Mets have already lost to Milwaukee today.)

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

TANKED: Taylor loads them up, Jorge comes in, Zimmerman bring them home - Fish lose to the Nats in the wee hours 7-3. Atlanta and Philly win.

Florida is 11th in Attendance This Year

Uh,...that's 'Florida' as in the Marlins and the Devil Rays combined.

NostraDennis of 'Mike's Mets' also notes that next week's Rangers-Rays series in Orlando still hasn't sold out.

Friday, May 11, 2007

Road Trip Hopes

The Fish play the powerhouses of Washington, Pittsburgh and Tampa Bay. First up is D.C. at R.F.K. Scott Olsen pitches against Shawn Hill tonight.

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

HOPELESS-CAP: Fish lose, all other NL East teams win.

Buckets O' Stats

"The game-ending homer was the second of Willingham's career. ... The Marlins still haven't been shut out this season. ... Cabrera was 0-for-14 lifetime against Lowe before his single in the fourth. ... In the first two innings of the past five games, the Marlins are 1-for-30 with one walk."...(AP)

"They have struck out (299 times) almost as often as they have gotten hits (316) across the first one-fifth of the season, but have been an efficient scoring machine (176 runs)...(PalmBeachPost)

"Their starting pitchers are last in the National League in earned-run average (5.31) and averaging the shortest stints in the National League (5.25 innings)...The Marlins were 0-11 when they scored three runs or less. Until Thursday." (SunSentinel)

Teach 'Em While They're Young

Not only did the busloads of kids attending yesterday's game made for a somewhat screechy atmosphere, but their teachers gave them an important lesson in the protocol of the typical Marlins game attendee, as "many of the school groups left early, and didn't get to see the dramatic conclusion." (PalmBeachPost)

Thursday, May 10, 2007

Wednesday, May 09, 2007

Tomko Against Willis Tonight

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

RECRAP: Marlins, Nationals lose - Mets, Braves, Phillies win.

Life With the Johnsons

1. Charles Johnson and his wife Rhonda have a nice house. (MiamiHerald)

2. Josh Johnson may return soon.

Nasty Cubs Fans Made Life 'Miserable' For Pierre Last Year

'Pierre would take up position in center field, in front of all that leafy ivy, and hear the heckling from sour Cubs fans. He wasn't hitting a lick and the Cubs weren't winning, and the Bleacher Bums let everyone know it.

'"In the outfield, we heard a lot," Pierre said. "They're on you pretty bad. They say you stink the whole time, the whole game, even at home. You kind of expect it on the road, but not when you're at home."' (MiamiHerald)

Tuesday, May 08, 2007

Some Jappy News

When there was no possibility of giving the game away, Jorge up and throws 2 scoreless innings. Hendrickson verses Obermueller tonight.

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

CAP-OFF: Through the smoke Cabrera gets only his second career walk-off hit to beat the Dodgers 6-5. Atlanta and New York get wins, Nats and Phillies lose.

Anibal "Will Rehab In Jupiter For The Next Several Weeks"

It seems Craig was right. No sense in hiding that injury when you've returned to picking up minor-league paychecks. (SunSentinel)

Monday, May 07, 2007

Dodgers Tonight

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

ON-THE-SAME-PAGE-CAP: All the NL East teams lost.

The Dol-Drum Beat Continues

Yes, the Marlins are on a record-breaking strikeout pace. Yes, Cody will be out for a while. Yes, we did trade away Trevor Hoffman. And yes, once again someone (in D.C., no less) says the Marlins should bolt from this one-sport town.

But still, Olsen had his best outing of the year yesterday, and Sergio's finger survived 6 innings of work, and we still lead the NL in runs. So there!

Sunday, May 06, 2007

Peavy vs. Olsen Today

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

PEAVED: Marlins get 2 hits (oops, sorry, make that one hit) off of Peavy, lose to Padres 3-1. Mets, Nats lose too. Atlanta and Philly wins.

Saturday, May 05, 2007

Mitre to Return Tonight

And as an extra added attraction, to celebrate Head-in-the-Sinko-de Mayo, the famous Mexican band Kansas will perform after the game.

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

LONG-NIGHT-CAP: Fish are now 0-3 in extra-inning games this year, losing to the Padres 7-6 in 12, and losing Cody Ross due to his hamstring. The night got longer - after the Kansas concert the fireworks show didn't get started until 12:15 AM. Nats, Braves, Phillies lose - Mets win.

Quote From Fredi: "We Felt As An Organization That He Needed To Go Down"

(ESPN) When it became obvious early on Friday that there was no way the Florida Senate would vote on the stadium subsidy before the end of the session, the Marlins, as an organizational decision, sent poor Anibal Sanchez down to Albuquerque (despite his having a lower ERA than both Willis and Olsen), and brought back to the majors Jappy Jorge Julio (who has a lower ERA than maybe my grandmother).

Friday, May 04, 2007

'A' Game Tonight

Willis against Maddux is scheduled.

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

AAAAAAAY: Fish win 5-4. Washington loses, Atlanta and New York wins.

Loria Delivers 4.5 Ton Tax Write-off to MAM

"I love the force of the figures, the subject - the women with the bird." (MiamiHerald)

Thursday, May 03, 2007

No Game Today

No Marlins game anyway. The Mets play in Arizona, and the Phillies play in San Francisco

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

DRAG-CAP: Mets and Phillies win.

Wednesday, May 02, 2007

Day Game Today

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

LOSS-CAP: Fish lose to the Mets. Phils lose to the Braves. Nats lose.

Omar and Miguel Talk Too Much?

ALSO: Jacobs and Amezaga may get today off, Tony's wonders who schedules the Reds' special events, Lee's a father again, and Nate's a minor-leaguer again. (SunSentinel)

Tuesday, May 01, 2007

Ricky Returns to Start off May

Pitching for his nemesis the Mets should be Mike Pelfrey.

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

HAPPY-RETURNS: Marlins win! - Alfredo makes 2 great plays and Hammer knocks in a career-high 5 RBI (by the way, I just found out that Josh is blogging for his hometown paper this year.) The Fish insure at least a split on the road trip. Philly beat Atlanta, and the Nats lose.

What the Papers Say...

The Marlins are successfully getting hits with runners on base so far this year, and Scott Olsen has been on a batting binge....Jorge may be back Friday (oh oh) but De Aza is still feeling pain....More diapers in the clubhouse! Lee's wife is due this week...

Monday, April 30, 2007

Back to Shea

The Marlins return to the Rodney Dangerfield of MLB stadiums for the 1st time this year.

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

FUN-CAP: The Marlins improve their Shea record to 23-16 (since 2003). Alfredo gets his first homer since Aug. 31. Fish finish April with a record of 12-13 (last April they were 6-16)...Atlanta beats Philadelphia....Nats win

Who Says There's No Time Clock in Baseball?

For the Marlins at least, every year it's comes down to the wire on whether they'll get that damned sales-tax rebate from the Florida Legislature. Again it's the last week of the session, and to make things more exciting the Sun-Sentinel renews hope that this year's proposals are not totally dead, with quotes such as "There are high-level negotiations going on,"..."In this process, I don't think it's over until it's over,"...."I think that a lot of things happen in the last days of session that no one can possibly imagine."..."I never say never."

Meanwhile, according to Ken Rosenthal, other teams may also be looking at that clock while licking their chops - he feels passage of the stadium bill increases the chances of a trade for Dontrelle, as "the Marlins no longer would fear the political ramifications of such a move."

Next Marlins Fan Coming From Iowa City...

...as Wes, who kept the Marlins close in yesterday's game, and has a good chance to stay with the club when Mitre returns, goes back home for the birth of his 2nd child. (MiamiHerald)

Sunday, April 29, 2007

Sunday's Games

The horrible death of Cardinal's pitcher Josh Hancock should lead us to prize and cherish the moments of life we and those around us have left. The Cards have postponed their game for tonight. The rest of the baseball world chugs along...

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

RECRAP: Moyer and Co. pitch the Marlins into a 6-1 loss. Mets beat Nats. Atlanta loses

Saturday, April 28, 2007

Saturday Games

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

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

Where Can We Tune in Marlins Games Next Year?

Capefish joins in the discussion with radio guys over where the Marlins (or Panthers for that matter) will end up on the Miami dial. (Radio-Info.com)

Friday, April 27, 2007

Fish at Filladelphia

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

REVERSE-CAP: Another 9th-inning rally goes the other way as the Phillies beat the Marlins 6-5. Nats beat Mets. Braves win.

...And the Orgy of Hatred Continues...

Craig has revealed to us bloggers that hate the Marlins.

The state Senate, including at least one Miami senator, hates them.

Even the Marlin's flagship radio station hates them.

At least the Orlando Sentinel has come out for the sports subsidy.

No-Fun-At-All Facts

"With four games left in April, the pitching staff is next-to-last in the National League in ERA (5.05), runs allowed (118) and walks (101). Only the Washington Nationals have worse numbers.

"The Marlins are on track to finish with the franchise's second-highest ERA for any April and worst since the 1998 team posted a 5.19 ERA to start the season. And this month, opposing hitters are batting .290, the highest allowed in April by any Florida staff....

"Of the 118 runs the Marlins have allowed this year, 49, or 41.5 percent have come with two outs - the worst percentage in the league."

After all that it's amazing the team's record is 10-11. (PalmBeachPost)

Thursday, April 26, 2007

Wednesday, April 25, 2007

Brand New Day

Maybe Dontrelle's new baby will bring us good luck. Scott Olsen is set to go against Tim Hudson tonight. Here's the 411...

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

GOO-GOO-GOOD: Fish trounce the Braves in the 9th inning (Correction: Maybe 'trounce' is not the word Probably 'just barely squeaking past' is more accurate.) . Mets and Nats lose. Philly wins.

Vanden Hurk Out

Rick got rocked for 6, was lifted in the 2nd and dropped down into Double A - Nate Field has been brought up.

"Tuesday marked the third time since April 15 a starter has failed to complete three innings." The Fish are now 6-7 at home.

Tuesday, April 24, 2007

And at This Point...

...the Mets have 13 wins and 6 losses, Atlanta is 13-7, Florida is 9-11, Philly is 8-11, and the Nationals are 6-14.

Wednesday, April 18, 2007

Time to Flee

Now that the Fish are 1-5 in their last 6 games, it's time once again to take some time off, and maybe do some baseball-god-appeasin' stuff to get that luck twisted back around. I think I'll have more possible Internet access during this hiatus as opposed to previous times. But the powers that lord over all my vacations will still have the final say. So if I can't log in regularly, at least here are the next 7 days' worth of scoreboards....

Wednesday, April 18
(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

Thursday, April 19
(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

Friday, April 20
(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

Saturday, April 21
(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

INTERRUPTING-SATURDAY-NIGHT-IN-VACATIONLAND-TO-FINALLY-SAY: Yippie!

Sunday, April 22
(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

Monday, April 23
(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

Tuesday, April 24
(Yahoo)(ESPN)(Sportsline)(MLB)(FOX)(CNNSI)

RESULTS?: Well, 3 wins out of 7 is better than 1 out of 6.

Place-marking

At this point in the NL East - Atlanta is at 9 wins and 4 losses, the Mets are 8-4, Florida is at 6-7, the Nationals are 4-10, and the team to beat is 3-9.

Tuesday, April 17, 2007

Mitre vs. Oswalt Tonight

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

DISASTER-CAP: A horrible loss - not only is Mitre injured, but Jorge isn't. Julio has taken so many steps backward that he's now pitching from the bleacher section.

They'll probably change it, but the 10:09 ET AP story of the game said, and I quote,...

"Julio allowed six runs and five hits in one inning for the victory."

Well, if the Julio experiment ends tonight, then yes, maybe it would be a victory.

AND: The Mets beat Philly, and the Nats lose to the Braves.

Alex Carver Says "We Deserved This In Every Sense Of The Word"

"This was one of the sloppiest played and managed games I¹ve seen from of the Marlins in fourteen years." (MarlinsToday)

The Plunkers and the Plunked

A dissertation on the recent history of the Marlins as it relates to hitting batters or being hit while batting. (The Marlins set a franchise record for hitting batters last season.) (PlunkBiggio)

Monday, April 16, 2007

Texas Two-Step

Here's a pretty comprehensive preview of the two-game Marlins-Astros series. Anibal and Wandy projected to start tonight.

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

RECAP: The Nats defeat the Braves, and the Fish and Astros are tied 3-3 in the 8th at 10:55 ET.
6:25 AM DOWN-DATE: Fish lose 4-3.

Sunday, April 15, 2007

Jorge's ERA Drops to 13.50

And he did it while going backwards. (SunSentinelMarlinsBlog)

Happy Jackie Robinson Day

2 games are already rained out (get a dome Boston and Queens).

UPDATE: 3 more games postponed (get a ditto Philly and Pittsburgh). The skies are crying on No. 42's day (must have something to do with Imus).

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

BOO-CAP: Fish lose to Atlanta 8-4.

Fun Facts

"The Marlins are first in the National League in batting average (.295), hits (104), runs (60), RBI (59), doubles (29) and triples (6) and are second in home runs (11)...

"Cabrera is leading the NL in batting average (.429), RBI (13), total bases (31) and on-base percentage (.543).

"Jacobs, who hit .194 this spring, is hitting .343, two points behind Hanley Ramirez (.345). Rookie Alejandro De Aza is hitting .313, and just about everyone in the lineup is hitting well." (MiamiHerald)

Son of Borat Attends Game

'Jason Wood said he jumped several feet Friday when -- while he was at the plate -- a fan threw a baseball that almost hit him.

'"It scared the life out of me," Wood said. "I even looked over to [Braves manager] Bobby Cox and he was shaking his head. I've never seen anything like it. It almost hit me. I jumped out of the box. I didn't know what would follow."

'The fan was escorted from Turner Field, but he might have made an innocent mistake. According to stadium personnel, the fan was a foreigner who was attending his first baseball game.

'He had seen fans throwing home run balls back on the field, so when he caught Wood's foul ball in back of home, he threw it back on the field.' (MiamiHerald)

Saturday, April 14, 2007

Baseball Everywhere

Last night was a treat - my cable company (Comcast) was showing a free preview of the MLB Extra Innings package. Since I'm too cheap to purchase it I was glad to at least see what I will be missing. Hopefully it will continue for a while - Comcast gave me absolutely zero advance notice of this, and I wouldn't have known if I wasn't just stumbling around the dial. Great to see and hear Vin Scully continuing to excel in his trade.

Fo' da Fish, it's Olsen vs. Davies tonight. Here are the contests....

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

WELL-NOT-EXACTLY-EVERYWHERE: The Marlins/Braves game gets rained out (get a dome Atlanta). First indications are that Olsen will still start on Sunday, but Tim Hudson will pitch for Atlanta. Philly wins, and the Nats beat the Mets.

Closer by Committee

Craig expounds on his concerns over Fredi's decision to hold off on deciding. (FishStripes)

Stadium by Committee

One bill meets its last committee, another bill is scheduled for its last committee, and then if all goes well there'll be one big final committee to smash it all together. (MarlinsBallparkNews)

Friday, April 13, 2007

Friday the 13th in Atlanta

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

D-CAP: Dontrelle does good as the offense smacks Redman around - Fish win 11-4. Mets beat Nats, and Phillies lose.

Rich and Tommy Recognize Bloggers

Not only did they use info on their April 11th broadcast from this guy's site, but they gave him on-the-air credit too, which was mightly apprieciated. (ThePastime.Net)

Verification - Jorge Not Closing

First the Sun-Sentinel, and now the Post, reports the joyous news.

(SunSentinel) (PalmBeachPost)

Thursday, April 12, 2007

No Marlins Game Today

But Philly's still at Shea, and Washington's still at Turner Field.

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

RECAP: The Mets beat the Phillies, and Washington actually beat Atlanta.

3RD SERIES RESULTS: The Marlins lose 2-of-3 to Milwaukee, the Mets win 2-of-3 from Philly, and the Braves won 2-of-3 from the Nats.

NEXT-SERIES: Florida starts 3 games at Atlanta tonight, Houston spends the weekend at Philly, and the Nationals play at New York.

Injury Exchange: De Aza Out, Taylor Activated

Alejandro has a "bad ankle. Gonzalez said the injury would be reevaluated Friday"...And it's too bad, but Lee Gardner had to be sent down to make room for Tankersley. (MiamiHerald)

Un-fun Facts

"Of the 11 home runs hit by the Marlins this season, nine have come with the bases empty" (MiamiHerald)...

"Before Tuesday's play, the Marlins were averaging 6.43 runs through seven games, second in the National League. They scored only four runs in 22 innings against Milwaukee pitching, dropping that average to 5.4 runs." (SunSentinel)...

"The Marlins struck out 27 times over the past two games." (PalmBeachPost)

Wednesday, April 11, 2007

Wednesday's (And the End of Tuesday's Suspended) Games

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

DOUBLE-CRAP: The Marlins lost Tuesday's game and Wednesday's game. Philly beat the Mets, and Atlanta beat the Nats.

Donut Disaster

"Fans can exchange their tickets from Tuesday's suspended game for tickets to today's game or can exchange their tickets plus $1 for any remaining Monday through Thursday regular-season home game this year." So if the Marlins get a grand-slam to win last night's game, and then score 6 or more in the 'night-cap' those fans that exchange their tickets won't get double the donuts?

Meanwhile it was reported on a TV news program that some Dunkin' Donuts weren't honoring the give-away. Supposedly the wording of the offer has now been changed from 'breakfast and coffee' to 'two doughnuts and coffee'. No congressional investigations have been called for.

Tuesday, April 10, 2007

Game 2 Today

Claudio Vargas is scheduled to start for the Sausage-Race-less Brewers.

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SUSPEND-A-CAP: Another first for the Fish - the 1st MLB game to be suspended under the new rules. Jorge's latest disaster will be finished tonight if the weather allows. Atlanta beats the Nats.

Injury Exchange: Willingham Comes In, Nolasco Goes Out

Rick Vanden Hurk takes the leap from SingleA to the Majors tonight, and his parents make a leap over the Atlantic to watch...ALSO: Jorge knows what's wrong after viewing tapes of his performance - "''It's too fast,''...."It's not me.''... ''I don't care,''..."I don't listen.'' (MiamiHerald)

Monday, April 09, 2007

Suppan vs. Sanchez Tonight

The Marlins haven't lost to the Brewers since 2005. Hopefully the tradition continues...

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RE-RECAP: Fish win, and the Mets beat the Phillies.

Hanley and Hammer Hurt

Both are listed as day-to-day. MEANWHILE: Fredi's neighbor/buddy is in the other dugout tonight. (PalmBeachPost)

Sunday, April 08, 2007

Scott Hates The Phillies

Let's see if he can channel that frustration into a positive evisceration of their lineup. Rookie Zack Segovia is to pitch his 1st big-league game today for the Phils. Here's the games...

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WHEE-CAP: Fish win 6-4. Lee gets his first MLB save, and Jorge improves his ERA to 16.88.

2ND SERIES RESULTS: The Fish win 2-of-3 from Philly. The Braves win 2-of-3 from the Mets. The Nats lose all 4.

NEXT-UP: Brewers play 3 in Florida, the Nats play 3 at Atlanta, and the Phils play 4 at Shea.

Saturday, April 07, 2007

Thanks For The Memories

It was nice that Alfonseca showed up on a night honoring the '97 Championship team. It wasn't so nice that he also shut the Marlins down for 1.1 innings last night.

Well, it's Game 2 today. Myers will be up against Dontrelle. Here's today's matchups/scores...

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RECAP: Marlins beat the Phillies 8-5, as Hammer almost hits for the cycle, Cabrera keeps up his .500 average while Dan's drops to .098, and Jorge brings his ERA down to 19.29. Atlanta finally stops the Mets. The Nats lose again.

Friday, April 06, 2007

Marlinsbeisbol.com Finally Started

11 other teams had Spanish web sites before the Marlins (including even the Devil Rays).

ALSO: Tank and Josh and Logan are improving...and a half-dozen Marlins runs at a home game will get the fans who see it free breakfast at Dunkin' Donuts. (MLB)

Jeffrey, Ironman Fixate on Downtown Site

Jeffrey: `"I'm very happy and optimistic that the city and the county are talking about the stadium being downtown, which is where we belong." (SunSentinel)

Ironman: '"What [owner] Jeffrey [Loria] was saying is he is optimistic and hopeful the county and city are continuing to work toward a downtown site stadium deal," team president David Samson said. "To the extent that they are, which we believe they are, we are very excited about that."

'Why do the Marlins favor a downtown location?

'"I think that having a downtown site as a priority makes sense because an urban facility with mass transportation, with people having the ability to walk downtown and park once when they go downtown as opposed to parking twice, I think that all adds up to a better chance of success," Samson said.' (MLB)

QUESTION: Uh,..park twice?

Good Friday in More Ways Than One

It's Opening Day in South Florida! There'll be many festivities and celebrations of the team of 10 years ago. So join Greg Cote and scoff at those 'experts' who predict a drop-off season for the Fish. Hey, the weather should even clear up by this afternoon.

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OKAY-BACK-TO-BEING-MISERABLE-RECAP: Fish not only lose 8-2, but Olivo's day-to-day with a bruised right thumb.

MORE: Washington loses, and the Mets wallop the Braves.

Fishy Notes

The Marlins infielders are error-free so far and are hoping to stay that way....

D-Train will be wearing No. 42 on April 15....

The 0-3 Phillies are a little down right now. They have acquired Francisco Rosario from Toronto to try to help their bullpen and hopefully keep their fans from attacking the players.

Thursday, April 05, 2007

At Least One Stadium Subsidy Bill Still Survives

(MarlinsBallparkNews)

MORE: Team official doesn't expect results until May. (PalmBeachPost)

Marlins Off Today

...giving them time perhaps for some more charitable work. Atlanta plays Philly this afternoon.

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FIRST SERIES RESULTS: Atlanta win 3 games off of Philly; Mets win 3 too; Marlins win 2 out of 3 from Washington.

NEXT SERIES START: Arizona already beat the Nats tonight. On Friday the Fish start playing the visiting Phils, and the Mets start 3 at Atlanta.

Julio Promises More of the Same

"We're just starting this season. This is the career I've chosen. You just have to keep at it and keep moving forward. These moments are important for me to help the team and give the people of Miami confidence I can do the job here like the previous closers."

(Sun-Sentinel)(MiamiHerald)(FutureFish)

Wednesday, April 04, 2007

Sweep Potential Today

Anibal starts this afternoon. Rookie Matt Chico emerges from an alley behind a warehouse to start for the Nats.

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DE-SWEEPED: Maybe it was the cold dark clouds that suddenly covered the sky...Maybe it was the missed opportunities through the middle innings....Maybe it was the latent effects of Anibal's giving up 3 runs in the 6th and a few luckily-placed Washington hits....Nawwww, it was Jorge. Atlanta beat Philly, while Maine and the Mets trounce St. Louis.

Did You Know...

...that the Marlins do not have the lowest MLB payroll this year?

...that "(w)ith a win this afternoon, the Marlins can match the 1997 team for the best start in franchise history"?

...that a 103-year-old woman threw out the first pitch at last Thursday's spring game?

Tuesday, April 03, 2007

Game Number 2 2-Night

Olsen goes against Hill. Let's see if the Fish keep it up.

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UP!-UPDATE: Marlins win again 9-3. Mets beat St. Looey (fooey).

Check Out "The Sports Fan Base of South Florida" Series

Over at 'Fish or Cut Bait', Henry Gomez's analysis unfolds like the multi-layers of an onion, charting step-by-step the mystery of the SoFla Fish fan. Hopefully the series last another 500 or so episodes.

(Part 1)(Part 2)(Part 3)(Part 4)(Part 5)

Monday, April 02, 2007

Boo!

Marlins start the season already in second place...

Here's an "Opening Day is special, even when it really isn't in the overall scheme of things" story.

Dontrelle thinks the Nats will be tougher than most people think. He also thinks the Marlins won't have a letdown this year either. The team's still loose and still having fun out there. So Let's get the Show Started!

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YAY!!!: The Marlins (including practically everyone who participated) beat the Nationals 9-2, and are now embroiled in a brutal, cut-throat, no-holes-barred three-way race down to the wire for the division championship. Fredi is already drinking the champagne.

Sunday, April 01, 2007

No Foolin'...Season Starts Tonight

Mets at St. Louis (not Japan, not Mexico, not even Timbuktu, but St. Louis) start off the bumpy road to October. Check the score through the service that works for you...

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