Changeups and Screwballs: A Southpaw’s Perspective 8/25/11

–       I guess it is a good thing that Rangers catcher, Mike Napoli, doesn’t play wide receiver.  Big Papi didn’t even look like he was planning on barreling over Napoli, yet the catcher still heard footsteps and lost the handle on what should have been an easy out at the plate.  And he’s a catcher?

–       As you may have heard, thanks to Buster Olney, the Astros pulled Wandy Rodriguez back after he was claimed by the Rockies.  Not sure how I feel about this.  While I do think that Wandy is undervalued as a pitcher, it is embarrassing to watch Houston trot him out there as an ace.

–       Man I hate how much coverage the NFL gets during the month of August.  I know that it’s the most popular sport in America and all, but this is the most significant time of year for MLB.  Who the hell cares about pre-season football?  The players themselves don’t even care about pre-season games that much.

–       After hearing how Jered Weaver told his agent, Scott Boras, that he was going to take less money to stay in LA, I almost shed a tear.  Then he had these quotes about the whole ordeal.  The Angels are extremely lucky to have a guy like this leading their staff and team.  I pray that youngsters realize this is how to go about baseball.

–       After reading Dee’s article on the Connie Mack World Series vs. Area Code Games, I felt compelled to shout it out.  If you haven’t peeped it yet, do so.

–       Why is it that in the world of baseball, people are so slow to accept change?  Older generations hold on to outdated theories and philosophies with such a stranglehold that it makes me laugh.  This not only refers to SABR oriented views, but also on mechanical philosophies, coaching styles, and everything in between.  Maybe it is because I am of a new, younger generation.  Maybe it is because old people detest and refuse change.  Maybe it is because the older one gets, the more out of touch they become with the youth.  Whatever the reason, it is so bothersome to see older coaches worrying about doing things their way, as opposed to do what is in the best interest of the kids.