Momentum?
As I always say, baseball is a game attached to the idea of motivation and momentum. Momentum can either break or make a ball game and can swing like Big Ben's big hand in London at any time. Usually, momentum is gained more than it is lost. A team, (such as the pennant winning Colorado Rockies or the 2004 pennant and championship Boston Red Sox), can look as mediocre as can be for a certain amount of time, but when momentum takes hold, it does some crazy things.
Seems as if my viewers have become mind readers, knowing how I will now start raving about how the Pittsburgh Pirates defy the momentum pendulum. No matter what happens in a ball game, in a series, or in a MLB game week, the Bucs cannot hang onto momentum. Today proved yet another 'burgh theory of mine, as without hesitation, 1B Adam LaRoche put the 'rats on top with a first inning two-run slam. .500 was in sights - and it was beautiful. Yet, it now seems as distant as ever.
So how was the rest of the ball game? Crappy as can be. Surprise pick up Phil Dumatrait walked seven batters over 4 2/3 innings against the Chicago Cubs, allowing four runs to score (all earned). Dumatrait has been one of our most consistent pitchers over the last couple of weeks, but he struggled mightily with his control this afternoon.
None of the runs scored off Philly-D were hard hit bombs or line-drive extra base hits. Two runners scored on sac-flys to the outfield while the other two deciding runs came slow hit ground balls. Even so, seven walks is not something any starter should carry on his pitching line.
LaRoche had one of his finest games of the young season, bringing in three runs along with that first-inning shot. I wouldn't say that the slow-starting LaRoche is heating up, as his average is still at .207, but I would definitely say he's on his way to "mid-season" form in... mid-season.
Oh, how I sincerely miss Jack Wilson! What a mistake it was to call-up shortstop Brian Bixler. Bixler went 0-for-4 today with 3 Ks - a day that isn't too far off from his usual starts. Bixler, who has been highly touted for his defense, has not been solid at his infield position. Though it was not intended, his poor play has cut down his playing time in place of the injured Wilson, splitting with Luis "Cool Shoes" Rivas.
Wilson was sent down to Double-A Altoona today to continue rehabbing his calf. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported that he is game ready and was sent down only to build up his stamina. I am curious to see where manager Russell puts Jacky boy in the lineup, as the Pirates "stacked starting eight" don't seem to have a place for him above the seventh slot.
Nothing else to say other than both bullpens looked narly, combining to allow just one runner. Kerry Wood pitched career save number ten, striking out two in the final frame.
Notable Mention(s): I would really appreciate it if my viewers could start commenting or sending me feedback in some way or another. I know I am getting tons of readers, and while I get some personal compliments, I would like to see some feedback and discussion going on in the comment section.
Also, as I sit down to watch ESPN Sunday night baseball between the New York rival Yankees and Mets, an idea came to my mind about a longer blog post concerning baseball media and their coverage of the country's teams. It could be up tonight, but I highly doubt it since it could be a two, three page write-up. And yes, baseball is still a true key in the sports media world.
Hi JB,
Nice job on the blog! Was glad to hear from you... So, I don't know if Mark (MLBlog guy) has a set schedule for the Spheroids or not. I think he is just posting them at random as he needs material for the site so it will probably depend on what else is going on. So, have you been to PNC Park? Went last year...it is really beautiful. Saw the Perogies race on the field which I totally did not get, but it was fun anyway! Have a good one :o)
Jenn
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No, I live in Los Angeles and have not been to PNC. My friend Steven went there on a baseball stadium tour and said it was one of baseball's best stadiums. I hope I get to go someday. Thanks for the comments, and keep on reading.
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