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Game 3 Open Thread - Royals (2-0) at Tigers (0-2)

Royalsreview_tiny by royalsreview on in News Comment 384 comments

Kansas City Royals @ Detroit Tigers


I heard for the first time last night on Baseball Tonight that Brian Bannister is smart. It was very informative. I hope there is more discussion of this going forward. Better still, they also discussed the Mitchell Report. I hope more can be said on that topic as well. The use of steroids has been a very under-reported story.

Fernando Vina pointed out that the Royals love playing hard for Brian Bannister. That is great! Its good that they play hard for Bannister, because he deserves it the most because he did well on his SAT. Why play hard for someone like Odalis Perez? Is he even American? Na, you can slack on those days. But, I don't think that is the whole story. First, on the Royals: it isn't just that the players love Bannister, they love Hillman too. In Japan, you have to play the game the right way. Selfless, you know? They don't play for the home run there, and the Royals won't either. They will do the little things. But you know what, they aren't so little! Trey Hillman is also a winner. Winners win for a reason, because they accept nothing else. You don't come out of the Yankees organization, win big in Japan and then just start losing. Winning is an attitude, and Hillman instilled that attitude from day one. So did Dayton Moore. In the past, you could tell this team was complacent. They didn't pay attention to detail, they didn't care. Now they do. By moving on the basepaths, the Royals have kept the pressure on the Detroit pitchers, which has in turn made the Tiger hitters uncomfortable at the plate, which has, Q.E.D., helped keep them almost scoreless for two games. When you have to play the half-inning worrying about baserunners in motion, you lose concentration that you need to be thinking about the next at bat. That is why the Angels have had such good pitching in recent years.

But, onto the Tigers. The story is the Royals, but also the Tigers. You see this a lot with big payroll teams: they're a bunch of fatcats who spent the off-season chillin' out.  You can't win with too many stars on your team, you have to have role players. Look at Alex Rodriguez. He hurts your chances to win because a) he isn't clutch and 2) he isn't a team player. TEAM. Ask Derek Jeter about TEAM. Actually, role players are often the real MVPs, because of what they do in the locker room and in the dugout. The Tigers won in 2006 when they were nobodies. Look at them now. It is sad to watch. In 2006, the Tigers played the game the way it was meant to be played. They replaced good character guys like Sean Casey with bad men like Gary Sheffield. How has that worked out?

Haha, jokes on them.

~~~~

It's Zack Greinke against Jeremy Bonderman this afternoon as the Royals go for a surprising season opening sweep of the Tigers.

For Jayhawks talk, check out Rock Chalk Talk.

A reader named Tim sent me this link, which is worth clicking. Clearly, they're still the same old Royals to many outsiders.

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Wow

Will is funny and smart. And a winner.

by Gordon Soy on Apr 3, 2008 10:25 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Thats why RR is cooler than the rest of the SB nation

Will is freakin' hilarious.

The first thing I know about someone in a KC hat is that they're loyal.

by grantfunk on Apr 3, 2008 10:41 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Some guys rise to the occasion, others don't.

RR is clutch. Hilarious.

Not sure if this has been mentioned elsewhere, but I figure putting it here would spread the word: MLB Extra Innings is free right now. Seriously.

by stuckinstl12 on Apr 3, 2008 10:43 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Trader's Remorse

Will, I think you're onto something. If only the Tigers had gone after David Eckstein, rather than Miguel Cabrera, the first two games of this season might have looked completely different.

Unfortunately, the horse is out of the barn, and we here in Detroit have to deal with what the Tigers gave us. C'est la vie. We'll have to figure out how to endure the next 160 games.

Bless You Boys

by Ian Casselberry on Apr 3, 2008 10:45 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Ian, I must say I greatly enjoyed your work

on the TWSS podcast. Tell Matt to get back on the horse!

by raefzilla on Apr 3, 2008 11:39 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hey, thanks

That was fun to do, but it became a time-crunch with the baseball blogging.

Matt will start kicking out the podcasts once 'The Office' starts up new episodes again.

But I appreciate the kind words.

Bless You Boys

by Ian Casselberry on Apr 3, 2008 12:46 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

whats with you guys(Detroit) and

cardinals retreads?

The first thing I know about someone in a KC hat is that they're loyal.

by grantfunk on Apr 3, 2008 11:40 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

If you're referring...

to Renteria and Polanco; as a cardzfan let me say we'd gladly take those two over what we got! I don't think they qualify as retreads.

Thanks for the highlight moments 15 and 27!!!

by cardzfanbub on Apr 3, 2008 12:02 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

i was

and that sucks for you.

not as much as wellemeyer and Larue, but it does suck.

The first thing I know about someone in a KC hat is that they're loyal.

by grantfunk on Apr 3, 2008 12:06 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'll give you Wellemeyer...

Larue however...is a great BACKUP catcher. He's getting the start today, though.

Polanco and Grudz are kinda a push...but are you saying you wouldn't take Renteria over Pena?

To add...I'll trade you Kennedy and Izturus for Grudz and Pena.

Thanks for the highlight moments 15 and 27!!!

by cardzfanbub on Apr 3, 2008 1:00 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Did you see how Larue hit last year?

I recognize that his 2007 was unlike the rest of his career, but it's a bad sign. I don't know that one can say he's a great backup catcher. I don't think he's awful, however.

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 1:02 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Cabrera scratched from the Tiger's lineup

Sore quad. Day-to-day. Inge will play third. Clete Thomas (the Tigers 25th man) will play CF.

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 11:43 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

i wish for Inge to man up

and play 3rd and CF as advertised.

The first thing I know about someone in a KC hat is that they're loyal.

by grantfunk on Apr 3, 2008 11:45 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He's just maybe that old school.

The first thing I know about someone in a KC hat is that they're loyal.

by grantfunk on Apr 3, 2008 11:48 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That would take

Quite a bit of grit. But he is white, so I think he could handle it.

Relive Royals History at royalsretro.blogspot.com

by RoyalsRetro on Apr 3, 2008 12:06 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I cannot believe my good fortune

of being able to catch all three games...work is slow and I've only had evening appointments.

Are Greinke's problems a thing of the past? Will he excell this time in a starting role? Will he end up in the bullpen once again?

Prediction:

He gives up four runs today, but we close them down to win 5-4.

Let's Go Blues!

by powderbluesfor08 on Apr 3, 2008 11:51 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I think he'll look crazy

crazy like a broom-pushing fox! sweep it up!

The first thing I know about someone in a KC hat is that they're loyal.

by grantfunk on Apr 3, 2008 11:54 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

With flyballer Greinke on the mound

and facing a RHP, this would be a good day to start Callaspo at SS.

by Gopherballs on Apr 3, 2008 12:03 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Agreed!

I'd like to see how he can handle the position.

Relive Royals History at royalsretro.blogspot.com

by RoyalsRetro on Apr 3, 2008 12:05 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Wow

Great clutch post Will. I can tell you've come from a winning English department that knows how to do the little things, like punctuation and grammar. You've set the right tone for this forum, and we all want to write better comments because of the attitude you've set for us.

Relive Royals History at royalsretro.blogspot.com

by RoyalsRetro on Apr 3, 2008 12:05 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

speaking of great

your avatar is freakin' awesome.

The first thing I know about someone in a KC hat is that they're loyal.

by grantfunk on Apr 3, 2008 12:08 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Thanks

Denny Matthews thanks you as well.

Relive Royals History at royalsretro.blogspot.com

by RoyalsRetro on Apr 3, 2008 12:21 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Denny Matthews is so classy

i once saw him throw his coat over a puddle for an older woman.

the older women then fellated him in front of god and everyone

The first thing I know about someone in a KC hat is that they're loyal.

by grantfunk on Apr 3, 2008 12:26 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Predictions

1. Greinke goes 7 strong, giving up 2 runs on a Sheffield HR in the first inning and striking out 8.

2. Bonderman shuts down the Royals through 4 innings but the Royals get to him in the fifth. Leyland, untrustworthy of his bullpen options, leaves him in too long and lets him start the sixth inning, which is slightly disastrous. Bonderman leaves with one out in the 6th inning, allowing 5 runs.

3. Gordon takes out his frustrations on the wide strike-zone for him thus far in Detroit and launches a Bonderman fastball 400+ feet into the RF bleachers.

4. Gator has a slaptastic day, going 3-4 with a bunt single and stealing 2 bases.

5. Ross Gload successfully executes a hit and run.

6. Callaspo makes his MLB debut as a pinch hitter and late-inning replacement for Grudz.

7. Yabuta makes his MLB debut, and is shaky at first, giving up a leadoff HR to Pudge but retiring the next 3 hitters.

3. Soria notches his second save

4. Royals win 6-3

True. Blue. Third Place in 2008.

by DC Royal on Apr 3, 2008 12:26 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

A Foolish Consistency?

Kansas City
AB R H RBI BB K LOB Season Avg
J. Gathright cf 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .250
M. Grudzielanek 2b 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .571
A. Gordon 3b 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .111
J. Guillen rf 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .125
B. Butler dh 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .333
M. Teahen lf 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .286
R. Gload 1b 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .286
J. Buck c 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .222
T. Pena Jr. ss 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .111
Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Detroit
AB R H RBI BB K LOB Season Avg
C. Thomas cf 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1.000
P. Polanco 2b 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000
G. Sheffield dh 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000
M. Ordonez rf 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .250
C. Guillen 1b 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .429
I. Rodriguez c 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .125
E. Renteria ss 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .444
M. Thames lf 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000
B. Inge 3b 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .167
Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Is Clete Thomas a hobgoblin? A slack-jawed local? Stay tuned.

Let's go, boys, to the toppermost of the poppermost!

by philofthenorth on Apr 3, 2008 12:37 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Funny how Detroit's lineup looks so much more...bleh

without Granderson and Cabrera

True. Blue. Third Place in 2008.

by DC Royal on Apr 3, 2008 12:40 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Trey believes in

"going with the hot hands", apparently. Expect to see Nunez be our first reliever today as well, I guess.

It's just as well we traded Justin Huber - if he was on the bench here, he has less chance of getting off it than he did under Buddy Bell.

Chaim Mattis Keller New York City's # 1 Royals fan!

by cmkeller on Apr 3, 2008 12:43 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I love Leyland's lineups

He really likes putting the worst hitter at the top. Thanks, Jimmy.

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 12:44 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Let the cult of Clete Thomas begin

Underdog? Check. Gritty? Check. Has speed? Check. White? Check.

About to become massively overvalued? You betcha.

Relive Royals History at royalsretro.blogspot.com

by RoyalsRetro on Apr 3, 2008 12:56 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He may not have the most skills or be the most athletic, but...

- he plays the game the right way
- he's a competitor
- he gives 110% everyday
- he's a great clubhouse guy
- he's the kind of guy every team would like to have

Sounds like Aaron Guiel.

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 12:58 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I Can't Believe

I typed "local" instead of "yokel".

Let's go, boys, to the toppermost of the poppermost!

by philofthenorth on Apr 3, 2008 1:09 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

While Royals fans are out shopping for brooms....

Here is where you'll find Tiger fans....

(Just some good-natured ribbing.)

Let's Go Blues!

by powderbluesfor08 on Apr 3, 2008 12:46 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Why, Extra Innings, Why?

Three days in a row, I get stuck with Detroit announcers. It's NOT FAIR.

by jonfmorse on Apr 3, 2008 1:02 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yeah really

They aren't the worst, but I'd greatly prefer Ryan and Split.

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 1:03 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It just seems like

there should be an effort to ensure both team's crews get roughly equal airtime.

by jonfmorse on Apr 3, 2008 1:04 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That's about the farthest I've seen a ball hit by Gator in a year...

by Royal2103 on Apr 3, 2008 1:08 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He got all of that one

Almost reached the warning track. It's like the best possible contact by a batting pitcher in Nintendo RBI.

by andrewmiller on Apr 3, 2008 1:22 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Alex

didn't strike out. Celebrations may commence.

by jonfmorse on Apr 3, 2008 1:09 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

We're saving the hits for 6th again!! Let's go Zack!

by Royal2103 on Apr 3, 2008 1:10 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Wow.... A Yahoo Royals article ON THE FRONT PAGE

here.

Kind of cool.

Finally coming back to the 'K'!!!! I'm going to be there 7/11/08, vs the SEA Mariners, of course!

by RoyalsFanInMarinerTown on Apr 3, 2008 1:10 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

A 1-2-3 first inning

See, that just doesn't happen with Bondo that much. We're standing and clapping here.

Bless You Boys

by Ian Casselberry on Apr 3, 2008 1:11 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Meh

I hate it when, even in comedy, people forget the Royals were one of the best teams in baseball for 15 years.

Plus, that whole "1961" thing to start the list is just dumb.

by jonfmorse on Apr 3, 2008 1:15 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

So let's really get into what a opening series sweep, against the Tigers for that matter, would actually mean for this team...

by Royal2103 on Apr 3, 2008 1:12 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It would be good

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 1:13 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

if the indians win today

it would mean we really helped out the indians

it would also be a nice banked three wins against a good team, who we'll play 15 more times

beyond that, i don't know

it may mean we have some studs on the pitching staff, but its still early

JDLR looked awesome in april last year

by royalsreview on Apr 3, 2008 1:13 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Sweet

the game's actually on in Warrensburg today. Thank god; I need a break from all the tests I've had so far before my last one at two. Grrr.

by campfiresongs on Apr 3, 2008 1:13 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

speaking of clete . . .

wasn't the nemesis from the movie major league's name clete?

by royalstern05 on Apr 3, 2008 1:13 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

maybe it was clew . . .

clew haywood???

i can't remember . . .

by royalstern05 on Apr 3, 2008 1:15 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Ha!

But, no that was Clu. Clu Haywood.

Bless You Boys

by Ian Casselberry on Apr 3, 2008 1:15 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

i loved when ueker said . . .

when he sneezes he looks like a party favor.

by royalstern05 on Apr 3, 2008 1:17 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

For a young team it could be the difference between last year and 03. We all saw what a good start did for that team which really was not close to the talent of this one. SIdes Beltran of course...

by Royal2103 on Apr 3, 2008 1:15 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

possibly

its just too early to tell

they could lose today, and still have all the confidence, or whatever, or win, and then lose three of four anyway

didn't the royals go 2-1 to start the year last season, against boston

by royalsreview on Apr 3, 2008 1:24 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

another walk for sheffield

by Royal2103 on Apr 3, 2008 1:16 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I am ready for Sheffield to hit the DL

he's taken like 234 pitches against us this series

by royalsreview on Apr 3, 2008 1:18 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

who wants to jinx John Danks? Bonus points if you email Hawk and tell him you did it

by royalsreview on Apr 3, 2008 1:19 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

seriously

that game started at noon local time, its like 5 degrees in cleveland, they play'd a night game yesterday

perfect conditions to have an easy start

by royalsreview on Apr 3, 2008 1:20 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

So far, I like this ump's strike zone

Consistent and reasonable. He's giving the edges of the strike zone to the pitcher, but nothing beyond that. He's actually calling the strike zone.

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 1:20 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

what are they? I dont even know

Speed
Power
Average (?)
Defense
Arm (?)

by royalsreview on Apr 3, 2008 1:26 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That's basically it

Defense = range

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 1:27 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

good post Will

You know how to blog the right way. With punctuation and stuff.

This space intentionally left blank.

by marbotty on Apr 3, 2008 1:31 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Good

inning!

I love life. Life = Royals

by focs on Apr 3, 2008 1:32 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

7 pitch inning for Greinke

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 1:32 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Pitch count after 2

Greinke 24
Bonderman 19

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 1:33 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

By the rest of the league

they may be refered to as "Dos Bedecos"

Let's Go Blues!

by powderbluesfor08 on Apr 3, 2008 1:35 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

What does that mean?

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 1:36 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

yea...

i cant find the meaning

Skinny is flaco i think

by royalsreview on Apr 3, 2008 1:38 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm probably spelling it wrong,

but something to the effect of "Those two a-holes"

They will be hated.

Let's Go Blues!

by powderbluesfor08 on Apr 3, 2008 1:39 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

ah

I was never knowledgeable of the bad words... though thought pendejo was something similar...

by royalsreview on Apr 3, 2008 1:40 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I got my spanish education from

watching Cheech&Chong movies at a young age....All I could remember was the van in the front yard of all those Mexicans, and Chong repeating the words he learned from Cheech.
Sorry, bad attempt at humor I guess.

Let's Go Blues!

by powderbluesfor08 on Apr 3, 2008 1:43 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Los Guapos

Let's go, boys, to the toppermost of the poppermost!

by philofthenorth on Apr 3, 2008 1:47 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

When

is the first Callaspo sighting going to occur????

by I need more Esteban on Apr 3, 2008 1:38 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

i thought today

with the getaway day thing, alas...

by royalsreview on Apr 3, 2008 1:39 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You'd think TPJ and Slappy Joe

would have worked on bunting 100% of the off-season

by Royal Revival on Apr 3, 2008 1:39 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

We bat like we have a date immediately after the game.

Take a pitch now and again, boys. If nothing else, Zack will get a couple minutes rest.

What's the over under on how many games before we score a run on a starting pitcher?

by Big Guy on Apr 3, 2008 1:42 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Tigers annoucners

giving props to Buck and his blocking abilities

Finally coming back to the 'K'!!!! I'm going to be there 7/11/08, vs the SEA Mariners, of course!

by RoyalsFanInMarinerTown on Apr 3, 2008 1:44 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The dugout is to your left, Cletus.

by 2X2L on Apr 3, 2008 1:44 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

WOW

And one of them just mentioned if they were building a team tomorrow, Greinke would be on it.

Finally coming back to the 'K'!!!! I'm going to be there 7/11/08, vs the SEA Mariners, of course!

by RoyalsFanInMarinerTown on Apr 3, 2008 1:45 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

remember when . . .

the rangers rejected a greinke for kevin mench trade offer . . .

by royalstern05 on Apr 3, 2008 1:46 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I don't remember that

was it Baird-era or Moore-era, with Dayton looking good because he failed (like with the Nunez attempt), not because of what he meant to do?

Chaim Mattis Keller New York City's # 1 Royals fan!

by cmkeller on Apr 3, 2008 2:00 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Baird.

The deal fell through because of something involving Hank Blalock. Unless I'm remembering the wrong deal.

by jonfmorse on Apr 3, 2008 2:01 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Is every pitch Sheffield takes going to be called a ball?

by 2X2L on Apr 3, 2008 1:47 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Only If He

Doesn't swing.

Let's go, boys, to the toppermost of the poppermost!

by philofthenorth on Apr 3, 2008 1:48 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

nice - threat averted

greinke is getting outs without missing bats - good sign - as soon as he finds his groove the tigers will be whiffing.

by royalstern05 on Apr 3, 2008 1:47 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

btw

Royal Expos fan here, had an account with minorleagueball and decided to stick with that name.

by playingwithfire on Apr 3, 2008 1:51 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Welcome back

Are you Etrius at the ESPN.com board?

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 1:52 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Cool

He's just another Expos/Royals fan.

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 1:56 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Grudz is impressive

He is continuing to get the job done pretty well, in every season he's been with the Royals. Nothing overly impressive with the bat, but everything you'd want from a 2B.

And, of course, he plays the game the right way.

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 1:51 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

i mean honestly

he does

i'm just stunned he's going to end up playing parts of three seasons with this team...

by royalsreview on Apr 3, 2008 1:53 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Grudz is our Cookie Rojas

Problem is, we don't have a Frank White waiting.

by jonfmorse on Apr 3, 2008 1:54 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

alberto c.

This space intentionally left blank.

by marbotty on Apr 3, 2008 1:54 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Nor is Alex Gordon George Brett

Not yet, at least

Chaim Mattis Keller New York City's # 1 Royals fan!

by cmkeller on Apr 3, 2008 2:40 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Bad link

this url is what I meant to link to. Don't know why it changed.

http://sports.aol.com/fanhouse/2008/03/11/mlb-poetry-previews-kansas-city-royals/

Chaim Mattis Keller New York City's # 1 Royals fan!

by cmkeller on Apr 3, 2008 2:44 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You can't stop the Grit!

You can only hope to contain it.

Sometimes you just gotta roll the potato.

by CentralChamps2009 on Apr 3, 2008 1:51 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I can hear sirens in the background

of the game on TV...anyone else find that funny,with the game being in Detroit and all?

by RoyalsFanInBillings on Apr 3, 2008 1:52 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I can't tell

I live in NYC, so I hear sirens constantly

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 1:53 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

GORDO!!

"I've seen the future and it's much like the present only longer." - Dan Quisenberry

by Safe@First on Apr 3, 2008 1:54 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Greinke is pitching like he did in his rookie year.

91-93, throwing all his offspeed pitches. Cranking it up to 95-97 when he needs to. Oh, and home run alex gordon.

winning records follow good bullpens

by slayor on Apr 3, 2008 1:54 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Looks like

he will be swinging for the fences this year.

by wetleg on Apr 3, 2008 1:54 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

boo yar

This space intentionally left blank.

by marbotty on Apr 3, 2008 1:55 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

K's, BB's and HR's

He is our three true outcomes player.

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 1:55 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

i really love this team!

i'm feeling something i haven't felt since . . . .

i feel like vader on the death star!

by royalstern05 on Apr 3, 2008 1:55 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That ball was crushed

by Royal2103 on Apr 3, 2008 1:55 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

This kid has some real power

Just in case you didn't know.

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 1:55 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

OH MY

I like HR's from Alex

Finally coming back to the 'K'!!!! I'm going to be there 7/11/08, vs the SEA Mariners, of course!

by RoyalsFanInMarinerTown on Apr 3, 2008 1:55 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

If Alex homers with a man on every other game

He can keep striking out three times a game.

by jonfmorse on Apr 3, 2008 1:55 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

da-da-da

now if Greinke can start missing bats

by playingwithfire on Apr 3, 2008 1:56 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

410 FT

to the opposite field

Finally coming back to the 'K'!!!! I'm going to be there 7/11/08, vs the SEA Mariners, of course!

by RoyalsFanInMarinerTown on Apr 3, 2008 1:56 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

back to back?

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by marbotty on Apr 3, 2008 1:56 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Wow

Alex Gordon repetoire:
1) Strikeout looking at breaking ball on outside corner
2) Bomb of a home run in pitcher's park every other day.

So far, I think I'll take it.

Sometimes you just gotta roll the potato.

by CentralChamps2009 on Apr 3, 2008 1:56 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I still remember

how Nolan Ryan kept striking Bo out over and over again until finally Bo smacked one about 950 feet.

by jonfmorse on Apr 3, 2008 2:08 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Bonderman

isn't even suppose to be that good this year with all the injury and stuff

by playingwithfire on Apr 3, 2008 1:56 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Dear god, 410 ft

winning records follow good bullpens

by slayor on Apr 3, 2008 1:57 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Awesome hr.

Gordon looks like he's recovered from his poor performance yesterday. - TL

by timlacy on Apr 3, 2008 1:57 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Don't tease me like that

I get all worked up and need a shower.

by jonfmorse on Apr 3, 2008 1:58 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

i dont know if you're mocking me

but i've been calling for Dunn for the longest time

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by marbotty on Apr 3, 2008 1:59 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Not at all

I'm all aboard the Dunn train.

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 2:00 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hate to brag, but i called the Gordo HR

in my pregame prediction comment. Thank you, thank you Alex. I couldn't be here today to accept this award without you.

True. Blue. Third Place in 2008.

by DC Royal on Apr 3, 2008 1:58 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

In his head now

Sometimes you just gotta roll the potato.

by CentralChamps2009 on Apr 3, 2008 1:58 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Nails that on the outside corner too. Announcers said it_--- Adjustment

by Royal2103 on Apr 3, 2008 1:58 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

i love it . . .

put pressure on bonderman - force an early entrance of the tigers biggest weaknss - their bullpe - i love how we're playing!

by royalstern05 on Apr 3, 2008 1:58 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Is anybody noticing a pattern?

First 3-5 innings we look hopeless at the plate. Then suddenly we're making him work very hard.

winning records follow good bullpens

by slayor on Apr 3, 2008 1:58 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It is really hard to get to good SP's the first and second time through the lineup

But a good offense uses what they saw in the first PA and adjusts in the second or third

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 1:59 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The strategy continues to work!

Trey clearly instructs his team to lull opposing pitchers into false confidence through early-inning offensive incompetence.

by andrewmiller on Apr 3, 2008 1:58 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

no - it means we're maturing . . .

we are adjusting, effectively, in-game.

this is a great sign fellas.

by royalstern05 on Apr 3, 2008 1:59 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

ANd by Trey forcing large leads distracts the pitchers. Come on, Grudz stealing? Game 1 first steal makes it look like he will every time. Grudz might not steal another all year

by Royal2103 on Apr 3, 2008 2:00 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

In the pregame

Barnett said he's watching film every half inning (during the other team's at bats) then relaying adjustments to the players.

Sometimes you just gotta roll the potato.

by CentralChamps2009 on Apr 3, 2008 2:01 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Damn

I can't believe I'm just tuning in here, I got a little busy at work.

So Zack looks good and Gordon hit a solo? 2-run? shot?

Disclaimer: Comments may not be suitable for young children or women who are pregnant, or women who think they may be pregnant. Side effects could include nausea, dizziness, or yelling at the monitor in disbelief.

by MileHighKCfan on Apr 3, 2008 2:01 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

2-run

"I've seen the future and it's much like the present only longer." - Dan Quisenberry

by Safe@First on Apr 3, 2008 2:02 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Big, 2-run opposite field HR for Gordon

Greinke doesn't have his best control, but he's getting the job done. He's not dominating.

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 2:02 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Luckily a non dominant Zack Greinke

Is still capable of being better than the vast majority of pitchers in baseball.

winning records follow good bullpens

by slayor on Apr 3, 2008 2:03 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

My gawd a hitting coach who gets his players to care! Gotta love it

by Royal2103 on Apr 3, 2008 2:02 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Gload

Wish Shealy is here, either a K or a HR I love true outcome guys

by playingwithfire on Apr 3, 2008 2:02 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Nice Exglosion for Ross

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 2:03 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hit-And-Run

Time for sure.

Let's go, boys, to the toppermost of the poppermost!

by philofthenorth on Apr 3, 2008 2:03 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Nice Gload! Just call him toughness

by Royal2103 on Apr 3, 2008 2:03 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Leg kick it

outta here!

Sometimes you just gotta roll the potato.

by CentralChamps2009 on Apr 3, 2008 2:03 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hammer Time

Let's go, boys, to the toppermost of the poppermost!

by philofthenorth on Apr 3, 2008 2:03 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Nice looooooooong inning for Bonderman

Racking up the pitches
25 so far this inning
53 overall

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 2:03 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That ball looked good off of the bat. Sweet swing from Buck

But a routine fly ball.

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 2:04 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I like the new gameday

Just gave me a video of Gordon's jack. I wish MLB didn't black me out from mlb.tv when I live in IOWA

by RoyalFlush on Apr 3, 2008 2:04 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Good inning could of been more though

winning records follow good bullpens

by slayor on Apr 3, 2008 2:05 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Totally off-topic

Pizza Hut's baked pasta isn't half bad.

by jonfmorse on Apr 3, 2008 2:05 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Agreed

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 2:05 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I hope JB gets his life straightend out

and his leg crooked.

The first thing I know about someone in a KC hat is that they're loyal.

by grantfunk on Apr 3, 2008 2:06 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Tomorrow

Got tickets to the Rockies home-opener so I get to skip out on work, oh, and it's FREE. Plus the Royals don't play til tomorrow night so I'll still get to watch it.

Disclaimer: Comments may not be suitable for young children or women who are pregnant, or women who think they may be pregnant. Side effects could include nausea, dizziness, or yelling at the monitor in disbelief.

by MileHighKCfan on Apr 3, 2008 2:06 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Not a fan

Of Cotton Eyed Joe?

Relive Royals History at royalsretro.blogspot.com

by RoyalsRetro on Apr 3, 2008 2:11 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yankees fans are bad

But Phillies fans are worse. I saw them collectively boo and scream obscenities at Jim Thome's son during a father-son game.

True. Blue. Third Place in 2008.

by DC Royal on Apr 3, 2008 2:14 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I passed on tickets to the Nat's home opener

Because I didn't feel like buying season tickets.

by jonfmorse on Apr 3, 2008 2:07 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

anyone watching . . . .

who's greinke's velocity - he seems a little off today, no?

by royalstern05 on Apr 3, 2008 2:10 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Last one was 91

I saw a 93 earlier. There was a 92.

He throws 3-4 mph softer when starting, I have noticed, but that is across all of his pitches.

Finally coming back to the 'K'!!!! I'm going to be there 7/11/08, vs the SEA Mariners, of course!

by RoyalsFanInMarinerTown on Apr 3, 2008 2:11 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

mmm

91-94mph fastball consistently, a few from 95-97. nothing out of the ordinary as far as breaking pitches go, curve, slider, change.

by playingwithfire on Apr 3, 2008 2:11 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Pretty standard velocity for him as a starter

92-95 mph fastballs

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 2:10 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

For awhile

it was just sitting at 92-93. Then last inning he dialed it up to 96 once. That last groundout was 94.

by I need more Esteban on Apr 3, 2008 2:10 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He can crank up the 4 seamer when he wants to

But he's throwing a pretty heavy ball today

winning records follow good bullpens

by slayor on Apr 3, 2008 2:13 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Three parts magnesium

Two parts grit
One part veteran presence

Relive Royals History at royalsretro.blogspot.com

by RoyalsRetro on Apr 3, 2008 2:11 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

nice attempt

Looked good, but just a bang bang play

Finally coming back to the 'K'!!!! I'm going to be there 7/11/08, vs the SEA Mariners, of course!

by RoyalsFanInMarinerTown on Apr 3, 2008 2:12 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

lol @ zacks sequence to pudge

he had absolutely no chance at that inside heater

winning records follow good bullpens

by slayor on Apr 3, 2008 2:12 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm now convinced that Banny

has an ability to induce vertical trajectories. Tigers aren't popping out today like they were yesterday.

by jonfmorse on Apr 3, 2008 2:13 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Banny could make a batter pop the ball into his own face if he wanted to

But he's too nice of a guy to do that.

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 2:14 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

4 ip's, 3 hits, 1 bb and 1 K, . . .

i'll take it when there are 0 runs allowed.

this means greinke is being successful without total command - or - his "best stuff"

this is positive.

by royalstern05 on Apr 3, 2008 2:13 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

This is it...

I've droppin' my jersey to get the Greinke '23' on it at the embroidery shop today.

Finally coming back to the 'K'!!!! I'm going to be there 7/11/08, vs the SEA Mariners, of course!

by RoyalsFanInMarinerTown on Apr 3, 2008 2:13 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

he is turning into

a gritty veteran. and he's white!

by RoyalFlush on Apr 3, 2008 2:13 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Screw it

Let's just bring up Moose Tacos

by jonfmorse on Apr 3, 2008 2:16 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

At SS, Aviles would kill us

He's a poor defensive 2B, so he can't play short to shave his life. And it remains to be seen if he could hit MLB pitching at all.

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 2:16 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Not that great defensively

And I see little reason to think he'd hit at the MLB level. He is Shane Costa-esque.

Relive Royals History at royalsretro.blogspot.com

by RoyalsRetro on Apr 3, 2008 2:17 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Dear god, at least we're being patiet agian

Uh!

winning records follow good bullpens

by slayor on Apr 3, 2008 2:16 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

No way

Berroa rooking numbers? ROY numbers? I don't buy it for a second.

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 2:17 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I have gritty man love for Grudz

It's just opening series man love, but still.

I probably disagree with you.

by NYRoyal on Apr 3, 2008 2:17 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs