FoxForce2

The term 'anticipate' would probably work better here than 'predict'. We're getting into fast twitch response-reaction integrated with eye-brain cognition (among other dynamics) on this, and sure, the right kind of training will improve even the most naturally talented batters. But then there is the question of what the right kind of training is. One approach may be suited better to this guy while other method(s) may work with someone else. Most of us have heard the story of Ted Williams who never mastered the art of managing or coaching. With regard to coaching, he had difficulty comprehending that his players and students didn't have the natural ability to perform at something like his level at the plate. He only connected with a few players who he was able to communicate ideas to, Tony Gwynn most notably. Even there, Gwynn was already established as a premier hitter who took on a few of Williams' ideas to good effect.

The Sith Lord doesn't quite get the difference between stolen bases and getting runs in with RISP.

Right now Mendick is outperforming both Leury and Harrison.

And here I was thinking "Jake don't just jump on the first pitch."

Or the Cux.

Bad call or not, it was Leury's job to move the runner. First pitch swing, not usually going to get it.

Westworld season 3 is binging on HBO for those that aren't streaming. Just sayin'.

You mean like Cesar? He looked solid on paper and is playing well this year. Grabbing guys off the shelf, without deeper vetting, just doesn't work, especially with this outfit.

No. But who knows?

"Excentiate"? I'll have to go to the Webster's on this.

Be careful.

It's a common mistake. A conflation of ideas that don't fully coincide. As a retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer, I fully realize that the symbolic expressions of the Anthem and Flag are not somehow exclusive property of service members or Vets or the Department of Defense for that matter. Having said that, I'm pretty much on TLR's side on this one. His lineups and pitching selections, among other things --- not so much. Have a great Memorial Day Weekend! And hopefully we all remember what this weekend is about.

I don't see how it's avoidable.

Caulfield --- You've stated that you reside in China. Are you living in mainland China or Taiwan? The reason I ask - AFAIK PRC censors internet discussion and would be unlikely to allow anything positive regarding the US in a matter like this to be disseminated onto the WWW. i.e. If one were to post material in support of TLR's statement, would it make it past the servers? I'm not arguing your opinion one way or another, but if you're posting from The People's Republic of China, a reader has to account for extenuating circumstances and bias re: your posts on political matters.

Cesar is currently hitting .281 with an OPS+ of 101 while playing somewhat above average at 2nd for the Nats. He's not Roberto Alomar, but his play so far would be serviceable even on a contender. I still don't understand what happened there.

I guess this team never got over all that cold rainy weather in April.

This isn't even fair to Cueto.

Say Hey Jake! Too bad the bases were empty.

And Grandal had such a good eye last year.

I scanned through it. Not many exactly pumping fists in the air on the signing. Mostly, 'we'll see'.

The Sox need to make these guys do yoga or something. Is that even possible?

Naquin probably is the best available RF/LH, but that's not really a 'jump start' to the lineup. He's been hitting a lot of GB both this year and last. Range Factor in the field has declined (if slightly), probably a result of a decrease in his somewhat above average running speed. Probably a decent pickup in an Engel kind of way. But then what happens with Jimenez, Vaughn, Engel, Sheets? I wouldn't move Engel for him, leaving Sheets as the odd man out - but that would be shedding one LH for another. EDIT: And Pollock. Pollock too. Whom Hahn identified as addressing the RF problem.

Adam Dunn stole 19 bases for the Reds in 2002 as a 22 year old. If you can imagine that.

But he was Major League Ready! Major League Ready! Major League Ready! Major League Ready!

One name/word --- Arizona. Very good chance TLR does more damage to this club as GM than as manager.