tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82785333273441541442024-03-13T14:31:32.046-04:00Al Leiter's Bullpen CatcherThe rantings of a girl who just happens to love baseballAl Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.comBlogger197125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-71992038469797690312011-03-06T17:50:00.017-05:002011-03-07T08:29:27.374-05:00Spring Training in TampaBaseball is a tremendous sport. Combined with the grind of 162 games and the excitement and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">intensity</span> it provides to fans, it is a sport like no other. It is a tool that unites individuals from a variety of locations and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">cultural</span> backgrounds. It also provides many with an escape from the reality and turmoils of life that often times come our way.<br /><br />For me, the first experience I had with the game of baseball came in 1996 when I was around 9 years old. I was in Orlando for vacation and my mom took my brother and I to Tampa for a day to see the Yankees in Spring Training. I was young and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">didn't</span> know much about the team or players, but I played softball so there was some excitement in seeing a real Major League baseball team up close and in person.<br /><br />Back then, Spring Training in Tampa was fan-friendly and you had easy access in getting close to the players. The fences were at a decent level in which you could see over them without being obstructed. My mom still <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">remembers</span> how excited I was from this trip and how had begged her to take me back there the following day (she never did since our plane was leaving the next day).<br /><br />It <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">wasn't</span> until I was a senior in high school that we made the trip back to Tampa. I was the only one in my family who enjoyed baseball, so it was struggle convincing my mom and brother to agree on taking the trip down south. I begged and pleaded and we eventually made the trip during my break from school. It is a tradition I have continued every year since that trip and is something I look forward to once baseball season is over.<br /><br /><strong>Autographs</strong><br />Collecting autographs was something I <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">didn't</span> have much interest in doing when I first started going to baseball games. It was really the thrill of being at the ballpark and seeing my favorite players live and in person that was the highlight of making the trip. My first autograph was a ball that was signed by Jorge <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Posada</span></span>. It was exciting but it <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">wasnt</span> something that I found myself seeking to do <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">every time</span> I was at a game.<br /><br />Over time, the thrill of collecting <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">autographs</span> developed into a passion. Initially it was easy to come across. You would wait by the field after practice and the players would come by and sign for you. You had balls filled with autographs; sometimes in which you would come home and be unable to even figure out the player that had signed the ball. The players made kids and adults happy just by taking a minute or two to stop and sign their name on a ball.<br /><br />As the years went by, it did become harder and more of a challenge to get autographs. With persistence and going to the field early, you were able to come away with something. Over the years I have a collection of an array of players; each having a different story of how I came across the autograph. The most impressive from last year was getting Derek <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Jeter's autograph</span></span>. Anyone around spring training knows how difficult it can be to get him to sign. But players like Rivera, Swisher, Damon, and a variety of others have always been easy to come across.<br /><br />It's difficult at times for the players because they do have a job to do. Last year, Mariano Rivera was around the side field, waiting around the fence before practice began. Many of us asked him to sign autographs; a plea the led to his response of "do you want me to work or sign". In the end he ended up coming over to sign, taking five minutes out of his time. Kids were excited, adults were excited. That's the point of spring training for the fans, isn't it?<br /><br />You have to keep in mind that signing autographs is tricky for players. You might stop and sign 20 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">autographs</span>. At some point you have to stop and get to work and that 21st person there is left without an autograph and is often times upset. As a fan it sucks, but you have to realize that they can only sign so many.<br /><br />That is the difference between this year and the previous years. Very few players are even stopping to sign any <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">autographs</span>, let alone twenty. I have been here for five days and have never seen the players act like this. I talked to a few security guards and fans and they mentioned that they noticed the same thing. The one guard <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">didn't</span> know why- but assumed it was because there are so many people out there that show up every day wanting to sell the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_13" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">autographs</span> online. It sounded like it made sense to me, though I <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_14" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">didn't</span> think it seemed very fair to those who are not there to sell them (and someone did point out that eventually, every autograph does get sold, look at those such a Babe Ruth's).<br /><br />But then came the word that perhaps the lack of signing was coming from someone upstairs. I am not a reporter or someone who works for the Yankees. But a situation <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_15" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">occurred</span> in which Eric Chavez was signing autographs for fans on the side field. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_16" class="blsp-spelling-error">Tony</span> Pena approached him, saying that he needed to stop signing or he might be fined. Chavez looked up at him, dropped the pen and left the fans. A person in the crowd mentioned in response to this observation that he heard this was coming down from Hank. Word was that he was so angry about the Yankees not making the World Series that he wanted them to focus more on playing and less on autographs. And with this situation, a guy like Chavez has more to lose than a guy who has made the team.<br /><br />Now I do not know if perhaps there is a certain rule that they have for the players to follow. How would I know since I do not work for the team. But Pena said what he said and there's no denying that. As for what he meant, perhaps the players <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_17" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">aren't</span> allowed to sign at a certain time before <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_18" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">practice</span>. Who knows. But I will tell you this, regardless of if the Yankees deny it or not, there has been a huge drop off in players signing. Am I saying <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_19" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Jeter</span></span> cares of he is fined? No, He can afford it even if it is a rule in which they are fined. He's just being himself. Heres the perfect example for you--The other morning when the Yankees were away, there were about 30 people at the field watching Jeter, A-Rod, and a handful of other players taking batting practice. After practice ended, not one player stopped to sign for anyone. Not one. Their day was over as they were not traveling with the team and they couldnt stop for any of the 30 fans.<br /><br />And this is not saying that NOBODY is signing. Swisher and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_20" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Granderson</span></span> have been great this year. But in general, the team has been worse than <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_21" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">usual</span>.<br /><br />I personally have all the autographs I want. Sure, I'd love <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Tino's,</span> but I couldn't care less if I got his or not. The goal this year was to get some for the kids I tutor. The little girls are not into baseball much, but I remember being young and getting my first autograph. Now here I am at age 24 going to games in Tampa by myself and having a great time watching baseball. It can turn you into baseball and that is the hope I have for the kids. Dont get me wrong. The kids will survive in me not having autographs for them but it is just terrible seeing how ridiculous the Yankees have become and how little they care about their fans. They want your money and the support from the fans but they can not take five minutes to sign for a few people who came there early to support them. And if its true Hank did threaten to fine the players, he must really have no care at all for those who spend a great deal of money coming down to support this team.<br /><br />At some point in time people are going to get frustrated and stop coming. For me, this trip has not been worth it. My own personal reason goes beyond the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_22" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">autograph</span> issue; more in how I was forced out of a seat by a security guard during the Red <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Sox</span> game. It was uncalled for and I still am in shock and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">don't</span> understand the reason for why they did it. I decided that it may not be worth the money next year coming down. I would miss the great fans that I meet while down here but I wont miss the way in which the Yankees treat the fans.Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-29320991116810124052010-06-02T20:05:00.006-04:002010-06-03T18:41:42.338-04:00I am backkk! Lets hope I can keep it up!Life has been busy and I have just not had the energy to blog. But I am going to go at it again, this time with more consistency. I now have my Master's degree in Literacy and just added an extension to that which allows me to teach mathematics up until 9th grade. Now the fun starts to find an actual teaching jobs. NY is the probably not the best state for finding a job in teaching.<br /><br />Anyhow, this past month I have started my baseball excursions. I went to see a Mets game a few weeks ago at the new CitiField, saw the AAA Yankees on Sunday at Syracuse, and visited Coney Island which happens to be located right next to the Brooklyn Cyclones (home of the Single-A Mets). The trip to Syracuse was fun as I ended up sitting behind the Yankees bullpen. You definitely hear/see some interesting things while out there. The relievers are quite bored at times it appears. I will write about that tomorrow and show you some pictures i took while I was at the game on Sunday.<br /><br />As for the trip I took to Coney Island on Saturday, that was an experience in itself. It took 5.5 hours to get from Albany to Brooklyn (I went on a bus trip). I do not know why it took so long but it made from a very long and grumpy trip. It was an interesting experience in which I went to the New York Aquarium and walked around Coney Island (which apparently is not an island nor is it anything like Ellis Island). The highlight of the trip was when I noticed there was a baseball field a few streets down so I begged my friend to walk down the streets to discover the team that made this field their home<br /><br />I was surprised to see that this field was home to the short-season Single-A Mets. While the season doesn't officially begin until the end of June, I was able to take some pictures and walk around the outside of the building. It looks like a nice establishment and a great place to catch some baseball. Perhaps another game to add to my agenda this year. Here a some pictures from the trip:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT1tvKEH7b7XDQX-TPpkL8055BIu0vn5FDHzPDB0PMnrDkSMCHm4M6uEIV38V40rQo45N4WeX2FNUsN9CWnH1sXAXTPsaHV6hMRKKMDplOUEgmD0QzGLezUNppMo1y2M-5E4aXk8sLyz8/s1600/031.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT1tvKEH7b7XDQX-TPpkL8055BIu0vn5FDHzPDB0PMnrDkSMCHm4M6uEIV38V40rQo45N4WeX2FNUsN9CWnH1sXAXTPsaHV6hMRKKMDplOUEgmD0QzGLezUNppMo1y2M-5E4aXk8sLyz8/s400/031.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478341344189445714" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRdoNtZKZm0zvKyaBEOBqnjExiQzAMLPCD6X2XyheJ1hZet8EPSb8k7K2OHY_UaRrUy2J7k1qS6SfpwJDtVOoPG-RRCcuqACxZxW2hAfJp76v_n6b5RPwnIj_92__ys1Szzr3oJCLk71A/s1600/025.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRdoNtZKZm0zvKyaBEOBqnjExiQzAMLPCD6X2XyheJ1hZet8EPSb8k7K2OHY_UaRrUy2J7k1qS6SfpwJDtVOoPG-RRCcuqACxZxW2hAfJp76v_n6b5RPwnIj_92__ys1Szzr3oJCLk71A/s400/025.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478341341337267602" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdu4nVS116gZX_97zaeH8PbA2_B17w1MifibeHcUvXB4fq2R_TzIEh5z3Y3Bdeibyi6R0UlKr8xT3IRz7ZX1O9PzN-r9gh1SVM98YjpiaAdQBptNl46EXlkXUSIUEuYGdx1Sl7hfQz2ug/s1600/037.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdu4nVS116gZX_97zaeH8PbA2_B17w1MifibeHcUvXB4fq2R_TzIEh5z3Y3Bdeibyi6R0UlKr8xT3IRz7ZX1O9PzN-r9gh1SVM98YjpiaAdQBptNl46EXlkXUSIUEuYGdx1Sl7hfQz2ug/s400/037.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478341366377859122" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVkdWCgtkq54zItlrUGI8ybYiiHAK3NNHwveOOOgtht5Buvm7KxaZeX8-Noj16yB8YLv6d-2v-L6tuWAHHW-UVkYv-_D45vrNMk3f_zBs1XXpybhGD_Vo0NGwn4WYsfrTnVSiFAva547Y/s1600/035.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVkdWCgtkq54zItlrUGI8ybYiiHAK3NNHwveOOOgtht5Buvm7KxaZeX8-Noj16yB8YLv6d-2v-L6tuWAHHW-UVkYv-_D45vrNMk3f_zBs1XXpybhGD_Vo0NGwn4WYsfrTnVSiFAva547Y/s400/035.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478341359173579746" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHdO9Zw3N63wdS3X8UM9o-P8ETBUJx2bqAB-KWf7zdHunLqO7cCLq3kBGHkzHEz1Fbm_adXG__5sgfQktUu32lVGZjesQCxAtErVmzaFJODNFqFwo-SlYiGDDNMDpQF3_195GCbiWvRlQ/s1600/032.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHdO9Zw3N63wdS3X8UM9o-P8ETBUJx2bqAB-KWf7zdHunLqO7cCLq3kBGHkzHEz1Fbm_adXG__5sgfQktUu32lVGZjesQCxAtErVmzaFJODNFqFwo-SlYiGDDNMDpQF3_195GCbiWvRlQ/s400/032.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478341354070720530" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMYHov796EF66R7-4PhcglVx0jc717OJnDfIsPZ7Vk3HeACeKOPi_ZPXF96y4wmZ4BPYieC-L0kHMdgnKtXsye7f7uWoaivlaF3C0mnXR56QLdz1vx7JQPyD7qgSTZ_UuEk1M3VGJ4DF4/s1600/041.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMYHov796EF66R7-4PhcglVx0jc717OJnDfIsPZ7Vk3HeACeKOPi_ZPXF96y4wmZ4BPYieC-L0kHMdgnKtXsye7f7uWoaivlaF3C0mnXR56QLdz1vx7JQPyD7qgSTZ_UuEk1M3VGJ4DF4/s400/041.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478341908280983874" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT6vV-6QZ-1rsgnCZFct-8bp3v6Gd5IHBdDgMBwgNEGEqLtHYm9p4iXRZT53tqeJpCW3t_5RyGL1xr5_FRSbNmj6pVIj2Gt5SHpiUrZcQndN4Le6zqAbwkDJFO4MkefVOjIgHAadVzq5s/s1600/040.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT6vV-6QZ-1rsgnCZFct-8bp3v6Gd5IHBdDgMBwgNEGEqLtHYm9p4iXRZT53tqeJpCW3t_5RyGL1xr5_FRSbNmj6pVIj2Gt5SHpiUrZcQndN4Le6zqAbwkDJFO4MkefVOjIgHAadVzq5s/s400/040.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478341901487638370" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHNamI_A9Uo8hyFLpe3P3HPgO1vsOZ7q55EHXCw5nscjycl-JTQmS5Ee668kzZEeQzMtGe1lUecZsMkneCUXlhDuaaw7r5oc_T1MqrACfCCEfgTFYSbGHm9eW1S711ZFpVvt5HdeXeU-Y/s1600/039.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHNamI_A9Uo8hyFLpe3P3HPgO1vsOZ7q55EHXCw5nscjycl-JTQmS5Ee668kzZEeQzMtGe1lUecZsMkneCUXlhDuaaw7r5oc_T1MqrACfCCEfgTFYSbGHm9eW1S711ZFpVvt5HdeXeU-Y/s400/039.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478341896348892162" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJtuais5lJ225WUf4yZDb5zDmL8-FgqIrxQtL5sa7gLAvpqAPPvWFo-YSIzzJSlQeNHshS4TtGeHsMP06TbqNg7kXmN3R00UtT4235p-d9JtZDoqLunYYh9DvvzKTMmsXiUu9IyW9qeo/s1600/043.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJtuais5lJ225WUf4yZDb5zDmL8-FgqIrxQtL5sa7gLAvpqAPPvWFo-YSIzzJSlQeNHshS4TtGeHsMP06TbqNg7kXmN3R00UtT4235p-d9JtZDoqLunYYh9DvvzKTMmsXiUu9IyW9qeo/s400/043.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478341921626529522" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiU5O6SUIBxhMTJkd2BazcpHYCdzj1R3cRBpSepJcsZJ9xrJH3M_oPBG4qWUz8nWnHt_3h1_yCGawNRR0WpgOIG_Z4Cgh_ALXK4KIfbUb0rfQX-GdMABLFHFWnGJliIXqTX7cd4dqUBok/s1600/042.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiU5O6SUIBxhMTJkd2BazcpHYCdzj1R3cRBpSepJcsZJ9xrJH3M_oPBG4qWUz8nWnHt_3h1_yCGawNRR0WpgOIG_Z4Cgh_ALXK4KIfbUb0rfQX-GdMABLFHFWnGJliIXqTX7cd4dqUBok/s400/042.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478341918270124146" border="0" /></a>Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-17566808444754386412010-03-17T21:33:00.009-04:002010-03-17T22:22:37.262-04:00Thursday, March 4th: Yankees vs Phillies in Clearwater<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt4laT2BBkzKK7vQvpWYDZm3ydNlgDPoir5XEYf15YrNpeLLfmviy1Twb0Ts9P-lBSnPDUQYuhOQkFiYIRM23TwlEOm-Fi4cdqMtwFhQaYtf4EMUpPK3cBDpIjDerVrwbkwOyyhDZR6_4/s1600-h/571.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt4laT2BBkzKK7vQvpWYDZm3ydNlgDPoir5XEYf15YrNpeLLfmviy1Twb0Ts9P-lBSnPDUQYuhOQkFiYIRM23TwlEOm-Fi4cdqMtwFhQaYtf4EMUpPK3cBDpIjDerVrwbkwOyyhDZR6_4/s400/571.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449790580103379554" border="0" /></a>Ah, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Clearwater</span>, Florida. Home of the Philadelphia <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Phillies</span>. Not only is this ballpark close to Tampa (about 25 minutes or so), but it is probably one of the nicest minor league stadiums I have visited. The berm in center field, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">tiki</span> bar in right field, and the huge scoreboard makes for a tremendous environment to watch a baseball game. There isn't a bad seat in the house (with the exception of sitting on the first base side in the afternoon, as that is where the sun sets which makes for a chilly experience) and the cheap berm seats are even worth buying. The stadium, known as Bright House Field, was built in 2004 and can hold around 8,500 fans.<br /><br />While the weather was still on the chilly side, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">match-up</span> for the game was one I was looking forward too. While it is ONLY spring training, having two starters named CC <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Sabathia</span> and Roy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Halladay</span> was an exciting one; especially considering I am a huge fan of the great Roy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Halladay</span>. This was his first "start" ever as a Philly and I was able to stand about a foot from him as he was warming up in the bullpen. It was fun nonetheless, regardless of the fact he was only in the game for two innings.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgawMeL7mcm2xDUdQ-aj7hfTeK5v-SJZCjID_29DeLJ3yLGAFTA3YbhsszZaCsudlxd98W4mslqSLYynDolSRVvWR_lVaN69Z7-4ED_sBwCLFSVfPQkNGnxX0GCMJ1t9z3KqpElXp8LswE/s1600-h/565.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgawMeL7mcm2xDUdQ-aj7hfTeK5v-SJZCjID_29DeLJ3yLGAFTA3YbhsszZaCsudlxd98W4mslqSLYynDolSRVvWR_lVaN69Z7-4ED_sBwCLFSVfPQkNGnxX0GCMJ1t9z3KqpElXp8LswE/s400/565.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449790565224212162" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Below are some pictures from the game:</span><br /><ul><li><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">MLB</span> Network was in the area once again, this time to film the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Phillies</span> in action for their 30 teams in 30 days. Here is Peter <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Gammons</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">chattin</span> it up</li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTWGmVjPodPeDWoQa5cfJdVaw-05nNihK3Q3l97YoYDg5ixnhaAlK2cC6-sniYUNergd683ZWsOQrzHBZXxmM_MHSC1cw8GQ2sXVCFxdwxAUcx347VAuN2Pdv6umM3BeXYVH05OOKeXRs/s1600-h/489.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTWGmVjPodPeDWoQa5cfJdVaw-05nNihK3Q3l97YoYDg5ixnhaAlK2cC6-sniYUNergd683ZWsOQrzHBZXxmM_MHSC1cw8GQ2sXVCFxdwxAUcx347VAuN2Pdv6umM3BeXYVH05OOKeXRs/s400/489.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449790589685433778" border="0" /></a><ul><li>While <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Halladay</span> was warming up, I was right next to him by the fence and decided to declare to him that he needed to return back to the Jays. He looked at me and smiled. Everyone around me found it funny and started laughing. Sad thing is that the Jays are really going to hurt not having him pitch every 5 days, and also the lack of his presence in the clubhouse.</li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDLDIxhyFA_y-jG8cirO0ogIhLIfE_RorysITvPYlpvSpFG5ZR54Vjj1XwXhTbcfmIaYKmBsvqR8jjCIwfI-bZht6Qo4QAxpAnSWPzkH_wXBYiiIrEWGxrzwKWeGIPv3lfTW_4l7sIvsI/s1600-h/515.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDLDIxhyFA_y-jG8cirO0ogIhLIfE_RorysITvPYlpvSpFG5ZR54Vjj1XwXhTbcfmIaYKmBsvqR8jjCIwfI-bZht6Qo4QAxpAnSWPzkH_wXBYiiIrEWGxrzwKWeGIPv3lfTW_4l7sIvsI/s400/515.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449786904960282610" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgtoaKXOmA3FnEtr1jcWqIkH0g8Rb75eYlOq_YbShvodNSQOi_xoybC48p7JHtzT8m3DmgFKrabRnvihTYUU52CGfjd_fUIMq_WvCnsAAk4USAjNRbe1ixaJ7a6VTxgNkohqnb0eLVQx8/s1600-h/518.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgtoaKXOmA3FnEtr1jcWqIkH0g8Rb75eYlOq_YbShvodNSQOi_xoybC48p7JHtzT8m3DmgFKrabRnvihTYUU52CGfjd_fUIMq_WvCnsAAk4USAjNRbe1ixaJ7a6VTxgNkohqnb0eLVQx8/s400/518.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449786893027393570" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYKK3rWTbWbCndZQ7SOYgrnfQwsOmbj-hlktC7Y397s2IhOm6Kn51Hxvwp21PW4D_BbYyAnppJ8RHcGCku3zNy-LVlXrpXE9pivf-NdO_zB50s4kFUt3Yr22p3w5HRQWnjDZoBsfygDE8/s1600-h/526.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYKK3rWTbWbCndZQ7SOYgrnfQwsOmbj-hlktC7Y397s2IhOm6Kn51Hxvwp21PW4D_BbYyAnppJ8RHcGCku3zNy-LVlXrpXE9pivf-NdO_zB50s4kFUt3Yr22p3w5HRQWnjDZoBsfygDE8/s400/526.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449785222741160754" border="0" /></a><ul><li>The Philly <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Phanatic</span> was out of control. Doing the worm on top of the dugout. It was entertaining actually, and I typically am not a huge fan of all the animals dancing on the field.</li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYyE-DRFy-nhKyngY-dzcz2agpXJ4F8XL3ucxB95Hf5Q8uvQqmQlWS78LOFRaqwuCuKA-lqangh955fn1hzAjb_VDCaEUN1vDHeDBkL3pdtzC1frY0Z6GJYSlDYsH3t_2G1QIa_4WqFiQ/s1600-h/545.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYyE-DRFy-nhKyngY-dzcz2agpXJ4F8XL3ucxB95Hf5Q8uvQqmQlWS78LOFRaqwuCuKA-lqangh955fn1hzAjb_VDCaEUN1vDHeDBkL3pdtzC1frY0Z6GJYSlDYsH3t_2G1QIa_4WqFiQ/s400/545.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449788164734334626" border="0" /></a><ul><li>CC <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Sabathia</span> warming up</li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIMGliMcMh7hoH54wIY8h_wqcieASkzrVhn8vy4XEhxxNH0Wco3LkBJc3Md7gHb4uBpLwmSO7xqG0WKblty9KRXWsAICydf2i8qbHpd3ROE0OS0iaiOKiWzEWal1GhynbdAJiQKfeyiuM/s1600-h/506.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIMGliMcMh7hoH54wIY8h_wqcieASkzrVhn8vy4XEhxxNH0Wco3LkBJc3Md7gHb4uBpLwmSO7xqG0WKblty9KRXWsAICydf2i8qbHpd3ROE0OS0iaiOKiWzEWal1GhynbdAJiQKfeyiuM/s400/506.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449786911536857858" border="0" /></a><ul><li>Cody Ransom is back! Except he's a Philly now and has somehow decided hes a power hitter. So far 3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">HR's</span> in Spring Training.<br /></li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw19Uf9CRTKPxtm33YNIvz5VN0qwTJPKnXEgVxJ8efSHaaNxHpN2I7z6VeXLZGL7kdgEYxdMan3KYVaO5gBeb5GjhgDEj_vVcrZ2BuVfs8Y-P_WDsdIjhPgN0CWdXR5UqWqTZe7koltq4/s1600-h/491.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw19Uf9CRTKPxtm33YNIvz5VN0qwTJPKnXEgVxJ8efSHaaNxHpN2I7z6VeXLZGL7kdgEYxdMan3KYVaO5gBeb5GjhgDEj_vVcrZ2BuVfs8Y-P_WDsdIjhPgN0CWdXR5UqWqTZe7koltq4/s400/491.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449790595450589650" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYS0ABTLPkxNEZgxog1AbslYvME1WHNz8QyMPPz5TIOgxXh9-_LnITY_flA0Q5bPfaVZJhoovNKMohBrq1cOrMD1VkfRBajpOuKg719mz0-qIgYsqG0fzHxGXoe1hAr88VOY9aiC9vBdE/s1600-h/490.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYS0ABTLPkxNEZgxog1AbslYvME1WHNz8QyMPPz5TIOgxXh9-_LnITY_flA0Q5bPfaVZJhoovNKMohBrq1cOrMD1VkfRBajpOuKg719mz0-qIgYsqG0fzHxGXoe1hAr88VOY9aiC9vBdE/s400/490.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449790591651842930" border="0" /></a><ul><li>Yanks in the dugout. The zoom on this camera is amazing. </li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivKO7Ds-YgCJXqfKCIR_TDQZSGnoIdL6ClA59xellmLgNaKWCrlTwqM_uQ0lbJVSwYcUFoYqZqlUdkuwUYLhYGxQU68vPJNBasmR_44hStrXg-Phyjm7Nsb7An0rdt3So1fAjVhJgCjfo/s1600-h/537.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivKO7Ds-YgCJXqfKCIR_TDQZSGnoIdL6ClA59xellmLgNaKWCrlTwqM_uQ0lbJVSwYcUFoYqZqlUdkuwUYLhYGxQU68vPJNBasmR_44hStrXg-Phyjm7Nsb7An0rdt3So1fAjVhJgCjfo/s400/537.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449786888874393618" border="0" /></a><br />Jesus <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Montero</span> at bat... Was interesting because Austin <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Romine</span> was substituted directly after <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Montero</span>. I assume one of them was placed as a DH. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2yqtdsw2DkKImvaBHa6NMDi0EsmXEpWfGK_NRXLXMjA6Sl_Jss7Fy1IDBoR2ObSRIFkNWi_jXWMXZYl532Gi4R7nywL0FvWHowCYKL8gIHGqNeezIBy4DELoyUpQ8U3qXhvImgdsmAw/s1600-h/557.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2yqtdsw2DkKImvaBHa6NMDi0EsmXEpWfGK_NRXLXMjA6Sl_Jss7Fy1IDBoR2ObSRIFkNWi_jXWMXZYl532Gi4R7nywL0FvWHowCYKL8gIHGqNeezIBy4DELoyUpQ8U3qXhvImgdsmAw/s400/557.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449783865841087282" border="0" /></a><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Mark <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Melancon</span> warming up. He's looked good so far this spring</li></ul><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmwR4h-C-AKBQVjOhadU3r1kKckaPZWsWRdDrOPi-RlMh6TporvRmYAZqKC_Haw01VSrhQxcUFvrLsez-fokxbGP98I5zTfDVMx_h3PqykI3AMlfVnXae6ec42CWUj4UFYr2EsapfaQzQ/s1600-h/548.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmwR4h-C-AKBQVjOhadU3r1kKckaPZWsWRdDrOPi-RlMh6TporvRmYAZqKC_Haw01VSrhQxcUFvrLsez-fokxbGP98I5zTfDVMx_h3PqykI3AMlfVnXae6ec42CWUj4UFYr2EsapfaQzQ/s400/548.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449783884246388018" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Additional Pictures<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWjKhyQ0r7UHRQgdXkk6u64byJE-Mfd_DOZiFJhDS4gfGPrZzRSGk_5RAnumIpsOgwtw-VoualRdrzTrPqM1cy59DxkyTcixZt74QggENXiAAMWICP9GdDPHzbrSp3Dpy0nFjB6wX6WRk/s1600-h/538.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWjKhyQ0r7UHRQgdXkk6u64byJE-Mfd_DOZiFJhDS4gfGPrZzRSGk_5RAnumIpsOgwtw-VoualRdrzTrPqM1cy59DxkyTcixZt74QggENXiAAMWICP9GdDPHzbrSp3Dpy0nFjB6wX6WRk/s400/538.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449785205477493842" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgqeaVeLaq0MY7iGy10YCGUV1A4JKcRYugcXjh7BwEaJrvtDCwycYFqyUeWFuNkBoU5VICYiRbu8lHfVl8R_EfqVOxWGwOLUi0ns1TV_h1zyB5-Et2CtQmEiJWzmfDrqYXekWxd0NGevA/s1600-h/541.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgqeaVeLaq0MY7iGy10YCGUV1A4JKcRYugcXjh7BwEaJrvtDCwycYFqyUeWFuNkBoU5VICYiRbu8lHfVl8R_EfqVOxWGwOLUi0ns1TV_h1zyB5-Et2CtQmEiJWzmfDrqYXekWxd0NGevA/s400/541.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449785201798562082" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUesdjBbpsIZ_fqUF3Z1rRPBKTS5o7le8AEVxR7HLeusWrehA-Jru6dh5Sm63El7l9oA9nSNDONomOYMGR69R6OuXTdr0bjG_WA91Nq-L4uhRXNpw1X6-WAttZGo5MnGINxF34hoROK9k/s1600-h/555.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUesdjBbpsIZ_fqUF3Z1rRPBKTS5o7le8AEVxR7HLeusWrehA-Jru6dh5Sm63El7l9oA9nSNDONomOYMGR69R6OuXTdr0bjG_WA91Nq-L4uhRXNpw1X6-WAttZGo5MnGINxF34hoROK9k/s400/555.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449783872527205682" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHuPBN8nw0qgxl1VFxk3y4NyK4w7_Y97ISWYVgRVamiInUazejFDrxvNjwD9wd-x__Ri1utpvU2qN8x9zp0J5XtGj87x2y7Y6rFqm_t8pZtTpZKW9EJ5-2nZiKVwO7kGIEIbLGmIjEl30/s1600-h/531.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHuPBN8nw0qgxl1VFxk3y4NyK4w7_Y97ISWYVgRVamiInUazejFDrxvNjwD9wd-x__Ri1utpvU2qN8x9zp0J5XtGj87x2y7Y6rFqm_t8pZtTpZKW9EJ5-2nZiKVwO7kGIEIbLGmIjEl30/s400/531.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449785209565026914" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0n_nYhg_Fl-sGp65cpvyrzmhXlz8bCDjNLIAQ1hVVWE0NI489_2RY6fGNWmML77Et4sZhhjXsCKfoqAMQjVy-E8YY2hda41D6iBMKDAK6paMHe3H_sh3D1cEiU2QgMaujDT2P9q0ydaI/s1600-h/567.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0n_nYhg_Fl-sGp65cpvyrzmhXlz8bCDjNLIAQ1hVVWE0NI489_2RY6fGNWmML77Et4sZhhjXsCKfoqAMQjVy-E8YY2hda41D6iBMKDAK6paMHe3H_sh3D1cEiU2QgMaujDT2P9q0ydaI/s400/567.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449783858612249906" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghJXdgMC8kpFdm0Kq8BQNYYzmtLxtigrkEpS4fXXr8sQOXf1DPDGeTr3qD2oF22fg-_uB1WedgsKPizcK_-wrU31mjRGxo5cb3RgqyUau-leYSb1I5M5Ba0WuY-WSvG2uVZkRcPZze1pg/s1600-h/569.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghJXdgMC8kpFdm0Kq8BQNYYzmtLxtigrkEpS4fXXr8sQOXf1DPDGeTr3qD2oF22fg-_uB1WedgsKPizcK_-wrU31mjRGxo5cb3RgqyUau-leYSb1I5M5Ba0WuY-WSvG2uVZkRcPZze1pg/s400/569.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449783851327814834" border="0" /></a></div>Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-2303381617063174242010-03-04T20:22:00.014-05:002010-03-05T18:31:56.480-05:00Time for Spring Training!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirv4c0l6jHujJTdJnwOInugL0XOS1nkcxD1qB2JLprbkGFXsX1TQfnSqtFQ16gLusjlKdy-E0R_J87bvhs1FvU3JqNYSjclKUDrjFWZ18pqL3k5VlbxMfOO5pv5INY0upFZfZeKrT5f_U/s1600-h/1074.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirv4c0l6jHujJTdJnwOInugL0XOS1nkcxD1qB2JLprbkGFXsX1TQfnSqtFQ16gLusjlKdy-E0R_J87bvhs1FvU3JqNYSjclKUDrjFWZ18pqL3k5VlbxMfOO5pv5INY0upFZfZeKrT5f_U/s400/1074.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444966994993115730" border="0" /></a>Well here I am, in the beautiful Tampa, Florida for a week of fun and baseball. I wish i could say I arrived to the warmth of Florida, but that wouldn't entirely be the truth. Among stepping outside of the airport on Wednesday, i was hit with the cold weather and high winds. The actual temperature at noon was in the 40's, but with the wind chill, it had to be in the mid to high 30's. So much for escaping the cold New York weather. Regardless, its time to make the best of the trip and be thankful that I am in Florida and am lucky to be around baseball 24/7.<br /><br />As for Wednesday, it was exciting being it was the first spring training game of the season. The Yankees introduced each of their players along with the coaches and special instructors. Even Bernie Williams made an appearance, which always makes for a nice time to reminisce down memory lane.Since my flight landed at 11am, I had to rush from the airport to the stadium. There was no time for batting practice and certainly not enough time to try for autographs. From what I heard, Reggie Jackson, Mariano, and Tino signed for a while. I was able to get a Rivera autograph last year, and while he takes an hour to sign each ball, his handwriting is meticulous and one you can actually decipher (the polar opposite of my Giambi and Matsui ball).<br /><br />Not much to really report from today. The weather was sooo cold that nearly everyone left the game easily, despite the fact it was a tied game. Me being the nut I am decided to stick around in the cold; a decision that seemed to work out well as the Yankees came back to win it in the bottom of the 9th inning.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Here are some photos from the game:</span><ul><li>MLB Network was here for the game, filming their 30 clubs in 30 days. Some random guy gave me a photo of Hazel Mae. My life is now complete (sarcasm)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY4cHaaJZuOX4Zbr1OQel9E-8pfcVPBoca1VPWFkwRaFP_eANJ3TKCy7SVtEVmKwoqHbZpJoSC1hjTYbeGPn27lHtpnOMedUXbgFfx-MFa1WdpMjyeFhm8yHMW8AYHhkTzG7JfZ1a2NWE/s1600-h/1073.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY4cHaaJZuOX4Zbr1OQel9E-8pfcVPBoca1VPWFkwRaFP_eANJ3TKCy7SVtEVmKwoqHbZpJoSC1hjTYbeGPn27lHtpnOMedUXbgFfx-MFa1WdpMjyeFhm8yHMW8AYHhkTzG7JfZ1a2NWE/s400/1073.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444966982175312770" border="0" /></a></li><li>The Yankees announced all of the players and the support staff. Among them was Tino, Yogi, Reggie, and even Bernie was on hand today to see some of the guys.</li></ul> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXc1fyDLooH1hpQRLool-4Pi0k2q6ERviWyrrnVqV4665vAEpsdHQvaw2jKHG008RP9qsgmjZ6bdiV7mmcR3782pTkYeMhY6-bUjC4mqdFKaB0gYeQyf-UqVSDLImsGU6Ctnzi8xLoCDw/s1600-h/1076.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXc1fyDLooH1hpQRLool-4Pi0k2q6ERviWyrrnVqV4665vAEpsdHQvaw2jKHG008RP9qsgmjZ6bdiV7mmcR3782pTkYeMhY6-bUjC4mqdFKaB0gYeQyf-UqVSDLImsGU6Ctnzi8xLoCDw/s400/1076.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444966993827369074" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1cuDW6k2lcwEWvoJXlnUTeLU_-xkIaKmJ0EefNDjJ6k7P9Z06tN-VE9EC66CwbxMKHbCaZk5seWbOaRiW0Cq3mBoOuu_PMJxoEvv-2yzH9I1QtRKL8OjxSeJJnm-O56o5tiZAt1Yh9oA/s1600-h/1078.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1cuDW6k2lcwEWvoJXlnUTeLU_-xkIaKmJ0EefNDjJ6k7P9Z06tN-VE9EC66CwbxMKHbCaZk5seWbOaRiW0Cq3mBoOuu_PMJxoEvv-2yzH9I1QtRKL8OjxSeJJnm-O56o5tiZAt1Yh9oA/s400/1078.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445290099581274882" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Yq3OQSTPfuo1_VagZtKwgedBD7vnkR86fV60BneKUzRMKCrKBZ5B1OHxSSNcCL-tMCn4k6iFYPyQ8XTxrwQmDRZrd6YnV3nvrCVLyYrJpjxXeD_C-fIMlt_mkvat5Ln-Iof_QxP9-0U/s1600-h/1087.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Yq3OQSTPfuo1_VagZtKwgedBD7vnkR86fV60BneKUzRMKCrKBZ5B1OHxSSNcCL-tMCn4k6iFYPyQ8XTxrwQmDRZrd6YnV3nvrCVLyYrJpjxXeD_C-fIMlt_mkvat5Ln-Iof_QxP9-0U/s400/1087.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445290125800567826" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3VstByJ3xp3pvAIfBKF0Un53oHaufiHXOtFYLcvmVxjiSTEtTuOHwunWdiaj5UA551H0iHseyN9dm4JNGvRIoPNKoCcDHWM3Yp9SM1-HRaoxjkawlYlZFlRiRdPOAe2J-ZqXzS7Ud_io/s1600-h/1086.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3VstByJ3xp3pvAIfBKF0Un53oHaufiHXOtFYLcvmVxjiSTEtTuOHwunWdiaj5UA551H0iHseyN9dm4JNGvRIoPNKoCcDHWM3Yp9SM1-HRaoxjkawlYlZFlRiRdPOAe2J-ZqXzS7Ud_io/s400/1086.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445290115782884786" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuJLXXirFJWEjAZNXzQdC7ywrdIXblAhCFF1uoViAYQk7KiYlBIgXf49kw028cRRbanqFsQF64VbY7clIUB_O2p6HA80Ghn5fiCwY6D0Zh8myPu4Xt7uvgC58yhW9Oz0YdvSHvvgz4pVQ/s1600-h/1082.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuJLXXirFJWEjAZNXzQdC7ywrdIXblAhCFF1uoViAYQk7KiYlBIgXf49kw028cRRbanqFsQF64VbY7clIUB_O2p6HA80Ghn5fiCwY6D0Zh8myPu4Xt7uvgC58yhW9Oz0YdvSHvvgz4pVQ/s400/1082.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445290112095076130" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilqccm5vJmID4bActy5t6jlriUHDMsjn6H8B47MeiGw-rWe-OglFycMyKDu3XgW-r-wqsXahS5P1aV_OM0Yf5EMGbpH5nMVbUmHL_9mP-KhxNvYd7dUuy02RNF-N2AJcwjXoxtr1u_F30/s1600-h/1080.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilqccm5vJmID4bActy5t6jlriUHDMsjn6H8B47MeiGw-rWe-OglFycMyKDu3XgW-r-wqsXahS5P1aV_OM0Yf5EMGbpH5nMVbUmHL_9mP-KhxNvYd7dUuy02RNF-N2AJcwjXoxtr1u_F30/s400/1080.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445290103349642482" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Other photos:</span><br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj95oK-0ciEf-Ofqt4tWMAdCwHEcqj3KACUHeESIuSHIbqnhZo1sOKVYlnJeBrqIEd0laKjD_AE3Mhq8xkKmBaRznjZynVBRK6gjjbeBa3-2LvTClnuzshP4NoWTpCpN40WQCuyy784Xv0/s1600-h/1070.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj95oK-0ciEf-Ofqt4tWMAdCwHEcqj3KACUHeESIuSHIbqnhZo1sOKVYlnJeBrqIEd0laKjD_AE3Mhq8xkKmBaRznjZynVBRK6gjjbeBa3-2LvTClnuzshP4NoWTpCpN40WQCuyy784Xv0/s400/1070.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444966966341904226" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOSDv2Li4oOpPOiuuLnpHXmp2ZIgZC_NSZaG8vINjcb0PMF2wsJPrHMtdm9ZLPsoLxz8-p8Gx_WChL5kZ3P2c1R6Qec-m18_Diy11XqfSNtoQf8rGXBKEa99uig52U5d3sPmIw86rGjbs/s1600-h/1100.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOSDv2Li4oOpPOiuuLnpHXmp2ZIgZC_NSZaG8vINjcb0PMF2wsJPrHMtdm9ZLPsoLxz8-p8Gx_WChL5kZ3P2c1R6Qec-m18_Diy11XqfSNtoQf8rGXBKEa99uig52U5d3sPmIw86rGjbs/s400/1100.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445291213828744946" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyL_OWDEw9dnIlChQcsldfMZ2njbHPDtfIueKAz4AQPpOJUXW06QOzhm-A4cEy1IO5qnWqr8GspTcVaJLEI_ld4hJ9mE6wTAgmkPNz2sKNQh4rm7052i_wT8JiSawO4Rr-AluploqM6zI/s1600-h/1090.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyL_OWDEw9dnIlChQcsldfMZ2njbHPDtfIueKAz4AQPpOJUXW06QOzhm-A4cEy1IO5qnWqr8GspTcVaJLEI_ld4hJ9mE6wTAgmkPNz2sKNQh4rm7052i_wT8JiSawO4Rr-AluploqM6zI/s400/1090.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445291208365833026" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWGGZZhgn98Y9lZ7VwAjQ4eyKOxXb5qy-X28uGZON4JnVbMGFPYGVHhbJgD8F12c1_wEHKmimI_bnzdu5IhUhx-lfCaj9nqY5Z_s4DL1H8KwEoHIhZxs0GuTfkre-E_OCMUjFGMOJhQ9A/s1600-h/1090.JPG"><br /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqzlQ0nUd22Esbbtev81ba0ksTZoIAaFYzDS6JKBWr8uOIw2MNYimdbBoCVKZD7OpJUVss87HWegwS29W7rgBpoZxq7GLjd2_LeliS8iIeZkO8hHVd9NtVRvVX3M5X-aQbZnULHqCTKXM/s1600-h/1099.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqzlQ0nUd22Esbbtev81ba0ksTZoIAaFYzDS6JKBWr8uOIw2MNYimdbBoCVKZD7OpJUVss87HWegwS29W7rgBpoZxq7GLjd2_LeliS8iIeZkO8hHVd9NtVRvVX3M5X-aQbZnULHqCTKXM/s400/1099.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445291197115463730" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLhSgpL4JJWjEmc8jv9CwRmRHGdUgbiUp6QxmISKQ5EUjHTboGsngtmhbUC2raoxBTwtshZbYBT_c-_uHbAPhnS0OfJN9y82EJarBx6oEfDRsNtdS50k9N7ttcRCMYryTSVXoO0Uir3B0/s1600-h/1098.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLhSgpL4JJWjEmc8jv9CwRmRHGdUgbiUp6QxmISKQ5EUjHTboGsngtmhbUC2raoxBTwtshZbYBT_c-_uHbAPhnS0OfJN9y82EJarBx6oEfDRsNtdS50k9N7ttcRCMYryTSVXoO0Uir3B0/s400/1098.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445291195429006338" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgesMTbZzvgMt4VhJ574b58El_Qk0eNfUCKqUYiAbeJBUMd6m6BG82QJv6QtxPGoxKnF3QlT3UO_zjS1daBuvV2s2ck-UsH6dPUzue1_um1EG_oEQylpOgNkeZumgVp5qufCr1cpD1GMp4/s1600-h/015.jpg"><br /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfmG_yzlBt2FCVtz_fiP9bXwwjqsOH705SAZ1kkwTjQaUaJlPJZpCCyxhgZGKvQsUExwXIsw52uBTiticqgqW3GnzGQjgxZaAH-P_E7AeU7v4Nb6Z7BPclj7B20Ti7CVApvB8iwZI9TRE/s1600-h/1103.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfmG_yzlBt2FCVtz_fiP9bXwwjqsOH705SAZ1kkwTjQaUaJlPJZpCCyxhgZGKvQsUExwXIsw52uBTiticqgqW3GnzGQjgxZaAH-P_E7AeU7v4Nb6Z7BPclj7B20Ti7CVApvB8iwZI9TRE/s400/1103.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445293856740016210" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHGL4map4DFIa0b_Etad1GyWCRGVCrpAlm-fVuNsNWtsnJikkb8fQGinTgpA_Yaxuvc-ka0HoOxLAuNv1N3QCPr5muTYicrVhd45iwtG63m4b1uYgdsI0Wz-c3g73_F8KIAG4Hp8F6Te0/s1600-h/1104.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHGL4map4DFIa0b_Etad1GyWCRGVCrpAlm-fVuNsNWtsnJikkb8fQGinTgpA_Yaxuvc-ka0HoOxLAuNv1N3QCPr5muTYicrVhd45iwtG63m4b1uYgdsI0Wz-c3g73_F8KIAG4Hp8F6Te0/s400/1104.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445293860179593490" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDdtR71ERpAQla22mBYMXfqDkpDcMHuebMM6Y-lMVlOtbI9kzo2i65CqxE8hwcP5vkgjlWXRXnlq-kY46oNh9eEhW9z-oAv4sRBDF2VbNIg1_-Ok1cWqNmtC6YhLgpo-cbDGrc09-ord8/s1600-h/1109.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDdtR71ERpAQla22mBYMXfqDkpDcMHuebMM6Y-lMVlOtbI9kzo2i65CqxE8hwcP5vkgjlWXRXnlq-kY46oNh9eEhW9z-oAv4sRBDF2VbNIg1_-Ok1cWqNmtC6YhLgpo-cbDGrc09-ord8/s400/1109.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445293867505700194" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Old ST photos that I just found on my laptop: </span><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgesMTbZzvgMt4VhJ574b58El_Qk0eNfUCKqUYiAbeJBUMd6m6BG82QJv6QtxPGoxKnF3QlT3UO_zjS1daBuvV2s2ck-UsH6dPUzue1_um1EG_oEQylpOgNkeZumgVp5qufCr1cpD1GMp4/s1600-h/015.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgesMTbZzvgMt4VhJ574b58El_Qk0eNfUCKqUYiAbeJBUMd6m6BG82QJv6QtxPGoxKnF3QlT3UO_zjS1daBuvV2s2ck-UsH6dPUzue1_um1EG_oEQylpOgNkeZumgVp5qufCr1cpD1GMp4/s400/015.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445293872591529330" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKLQ6-24ulz_m13Euqh23i4IZ0TK1BNSJeZY9TG4oRd5_xQQMxndVg5pcIDjgrn6JwE7_lIyUXoEeqi90gdFCKyt2UXvPt7H1FYz_2Bvg3IxfJ3CYX1O3QmD-iYFY9-ZFuk52Ge5hUUAg/s1600-h/017.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 347px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKLQ6-24ulz_m13Euqh23i4IZ0TK1BNSJeZY9TG4oRd5_xQQMxndVg5pcIDjgrn6JwE7_lIyUXoEeqi90gdFCKyt2UXvPt7H1FYz_2Bvg3IxfJ3CYX1O3QmD-iYFY9-ZFuk52Ge5hUUAg/s400/017.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445293876331086546" border="0" /></a>Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-45341520356214793332010-02-13T22:46:00.001-05:002010-02-14T13:40:16.145-05:00Get well soon, Geno<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://readingeagle.com/REnetImages/2007/11/20/D8T1QJ9O0/500x500_6c16bd7c-4faf-4699-8506-668f4d184d66.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 426px;" src="http://readingeagle.com/REnetImages/2007/11/20/D8T1QJ9O0/500x500_6c16bd7c-4faf-4699-8506-668f4d184d66.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />The <a href="http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/yankees/legendary_yankees_trainer_monahan_ruu134HEH0HEkV6AYU550H">NY post is reporting</a> that Yankee trainer Gene <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Monahan</span> will be missing his first spring training in 48 years. The source states that it is a "significant illness that possibly could sideline him for the beginning of the regular season."<br /><br />I've run into Geno on several occasions <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">while</span> in Tampa and in Toronto and he seems to be a good guy. He's been that mainstay with the Yankees for years and is someone the players seem to like. Him and Bobby <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Murcer</span> were <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">extremely</span> close; a relationship that formed when Bobby was a CF for the Yankees. If you're not familiar with him, hes the guy the announcers always talk about when someone has a memorable hit and they write the accomplishment on the ball (<a href="http://bats.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/05/13/theres-no-fooling-brett-gardner/#more-6591">As documented by </a>Tyler <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Kepner</span> of the NY Times)<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Heres</span> to a speedy recovering Gene. Hopefully he will be back to action soon.<br /><div id="TixyyLink" style="border: medium none ; overflow: hidden; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;"><br /><br /></div>Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-46669431749659283822010-02-13T15:58:00.005-05:002010-02-20T09:53:24.592-05:00The best inventionI recently purchased a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">DVR</span> player for me room. It is probably one of the best inventions out there. Not only can I ditch the VHS tapes when I was to record a show (yes I am <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">wayyy</span> behind technology-wise), but I now have digital cable so I am able to catch the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">MLB</span> Network.<br /><br />First thing that I have to note is the phenomenal guys talent they have on this network. Bob <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Costas</span> does an amazing job, along with Victor Rojas, analysts that are former players, including current players into aspects of the show, and of course, the addition of Al <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Leiter</span> is always a positive thing in my world.<br /><br />I mean a channel focusing solely on baseball 24/7.. It's like heaven in my eyes.<br /><br />Today i was watching an old Blue Jays/ Devil Rays (it took a year to get used to call them the 'Rays', but now its hard to see them called the 'Devil Rays') game on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">MLB</span> Network. t was the game in which Delgado hit 4 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">homeruns</span> in one game; a feat that was never accomplished by a Blue Jays before in one game. It's always fun to look back at past games; seeing the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">different</span> players on the teams and how much they have aged since the game took place.<br /><br />It was also interesting to see the how different the turf used to look. The improvements to the game in that regard are amazing as the surface has somewhat more of a "less fake" look of grass. Here is a look at the purpose of playing on <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">artificial</span> turf. I have never heard anyone really talk about enjoying to play on <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">artificial</span> turf, but I perhaps it works better for other sports. <object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/n0tUWViqTp4&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/n0tUWViqTp4&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object>Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-9981751457287050022010-02-13T15:11:00.003-05:002010-02-13T15:43:17.990-05:00Spring Training is Near!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.knowyourvenue.com/userfiles/image/Legends-SteinbrennerField.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 464px; height: 340px;" src="http://www.knowyourvenue.com/userfiles/image/Legends-SteinbrennerField.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />The best time of the year is approaching us soon. Pitchers and catchers will be reporting to Tampa on Thursday; a signal that spring is on the way and Major league Baseball will be returning back to action.<br /><br />For me, it is a time of the year in which I am busy trying to catch up with HW and the preparation for my annual trip Tampa. Though many think I am crazy attending all these games by myself, it is the best type of atmosphere one can ever embark on. The fans you meet down in Tampa are like none other. Their knowledge about baseball is vast and you can hang around the field all morning before the games starts, just talking solely about baseball. I can't think of anything better.<br /><br />I am purchasing a laptop soon so that I can document my week long travels down to Florida more extensively than I have in the past. The players are easier to see down in Tampa and the autographs are much easier to come by than if you are going to a game in the Bronx.<br /><br />Is anyone else heading down to Tampa soon? I have gone to spring training during the practices in February and also the games in March.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Advantages of going to practices: </span><br /><ul><li>Admission into the stadium is free (parking was free back in the day, not sure if it still is); you can sit wherever you want<br /></li><li>Players are friendly and autographs are easier to come by</li><li>Player development</li><li>You can see the different drills the players engage in to build strength</li><li>Catcher activities are always fun to watch. The players also have fun with this which makes it entertaining</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Disadvantages of practices:</span><br /><ul><li>Its only a practice. Players are running and doing sprints. Not a great deal of action, though you can watch the pitchers throw a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">BP</span> session.</li><li>Only pitchers and catchers for the first week. If you head over the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Himes</span> field you can try to catch a glimpse of the position players. Forewarning, do not park close to the field. You could get your car smashed by a ball. Seen it happen first hand.<br /></li><li>Last i checked, the practices were maybe 2 hours long. Not a great deal of time at the field, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">especially</span> if you're traveling from far away.<br /></li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Advantages of games:</span><br /><ul><li>Player development- If you are into seeing the guys in the Yankees farm system, this is the place to catch a glimpse of what is in store for the future. </li><li>Autographs are easier to come by, though you need to get to the games early, when the players are practicing in the morning before the game. </li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Disadvantages of attending games: </span><br /><ul><li>$$$... The tickets are pretty expensive, especially considering the fact you are seeing the stars play for only 3 innings or so. Parking, last I checked, was 7 dollars. I work 3 jobs and tutor a handful of kids just to afford this. But it IS worth the money, I assure you.<br /></li></ul>-------------------<br /><br />For the record, if you attend spring training during the beginning of March, the regulars are only going to be starting about 3 innings. Starting pitchers start out slow and will be pulled after a certain pitch count (typically going 3 innings, which is built up during the last week of camp). if you go to see big players such as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Jeter</span> or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Arod</span>, then your best bet is to try heading down at the middle to end of spring training. Those who enjoy player development are better off going in the beginning. As camp starts to progress and wind down, players are sent to the minor leagues, which is located a few minutes away from the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">GMS</span> complex.<br /><br />Those with kids and jobs may only be able to attend spring training in February when kids are on break. While I think the games are better, I still recommend going to the workouts. Not only do you see the players close up, but its Florida and the weather is amazing as it is. Attending practices is certainly cheaper than games too.Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-9583313985992067512010-02-10T11:16:00.005-05:002010-02-10T12:05:02.687-05:00Wang to the Nationals<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.cbc.ca/gfx/images/sports/photos/2008/06/16/wang-chien-ming-392-cp-080615.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 392px; height: 230px;" src="http://www.cbc.ca/gfx/images/sports/photos/2008/06/16/wang-chien-ming-392-cp-080615.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>It looks as if Chien-Ming Wang has decided to sign with the Nationals. This signing shows me that the Dodgers must either not have faith in Wang or that they are done spending money. Though with that, I can't imagine the salary that he was demanding and/or why they wouldn't put that commitment towards Wang. I know Wang is a huge fan of Torre and Bowa, and if there was interest by the Dodgers, I think he would have signed there in a heartbeat.<br /><br />Given that, I am curious as to how many years/ how much money the Nationals are going to sign him for. I would bet an incentive clause would be good for Wang, considering how healthy he is after coming back from surgery. Since I am going to assume this is a short term deal, an incentive-based contract may not be a huge deal. There is risk with him, but there is also the potential for great reward if he comes back to the pitcher he was before that injury. But really you never know how a guy will come back.<br /><br />It appears as if this post turned out to be very wishy-washy. I guess it stems from the fact there are some unknowns with this deal.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thoughts?</span>??<br /><br />2 years 8 million?<br /><br />1 year 5 million?<br /><br />Do you think that's going too high for Wang?<br /><br />It appears we will know for sure within a week or so. I hope for the best with Wang. He was our ace until these injuries and has the potential to return back to that status if he can recover from the surgery and continue to stay healthy.Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-79674285801942571012010-01-30T17:12:00.006-05:002010-01-30T17:31:15.199-05:00Helping out a good cause<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cache.boston.com/resize/bonzai-fba/Globe_Photo/2008/07/07/1215431279_2616/499w.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 332px; height: 448px;" src="http://cache.boston.com/resize/bonzai-fba/Globe_Photo/2008/07/07/1215431279_2616/499w.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Life has finally settled down and baseball is pretty much back in action, which means I better get myself back in gear updating this thing.<br /><br />I am heading to Tampa on March 3rd to see the Yankees in action. I have been taking this trip for about 6 years (in addition to when I went in 1996, back when the Yankees were less anal and actually let you get close to the players) and it always is a blast. Hopefully this year is the same.<br /><br />When you head to games in the beginning of March, the regulars start for about 3 innings and are replaced by the younger, developing players. If you are a fan of the minor leagues, this is definitely the time to head down to Tampa.<br />-------------------<br /><br />As an aside, Brett Gardner is heading to Albany tomorrow as part of the <a href="http://www.cfdsny.org/htmlweb/gardner.html">Center for Disability Services Telethon</a>. It is an annual event to benefit this amazing organization that does so much for individuals in upstate NY and even those well outside of the Capital Region. <a href="http://www.fox23news.com/mostpopular/story/Yankees-Gardner-Giants-Nicks-to-Appear-at-Center/IfMkbTZAZU2KrpCP0CfGZw.cspx">Here is an article</a> from FOX23 sports that details the event. Included in the article:<br /><p style="font-style: italic;"></p><blockquote style="font-style: italic;">Brett Gardner, starting left fielder with the World Champion New York Yankees and Hakeem Nicks, wide receiver with the New York Giants, will be special guests at the 50<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span> Center for Disability Services Telethon on Sunday, January 31, from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the Holiday Inn Albany. Both players will appear in the sports area and will meet fans and sign autographs. The specific times and details of their appearances will be announced soon.</blockquote><p></p><p></p><blockquote style="font-style: italic;">Gardner, who is a native of South Carolina, signed with the Yankees in 2005, and made his major league debut in June 2008. He is considered the fastest base runner in the Yankee organization<br /><br />....The 50th Center for Disability Services Telethon will feature child representative Kennedi Banks, adult representative Matt Pezzula, and inspirational stories about individuals and families who use the Center’s programs and services.<br />The Center is known as the place where people get better at life.<br /></blockquote><p></p><p></p>If your in the area, stop by and support this cause. It should be a great time all around and this organization really is in need of money, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">especially</span> given the difficulties nowadays with state aid their current financial situation.Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-31610072773653909692010-01-19T23:53:00.003-05:002010-01-19T23:55:36.099-05:00I'm Back!So Kyle was nice enough to help me out with a blog post as I try to catch up on the homework I am behind in. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Heres</span> a brief assessment about the current left field situation for the Yankees<br /><div><br /></div> <div> <style> <!-- #yiv829915856 _filtered #yiv829915856 {font-family:"Cambria Math";panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;} _filtered #yiv829915856 {font-family:Calibri;panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;} #yiv829915856 #yiv829915856 p.MsoNormal, #yiv829915856 li.MsoNormal, #yiv829915856 div.MsoNormal {margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:10.0pt;margin-left:0in;line-height:115%;font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri", "sans-serif";} #yiv829915856 .MsoChpDefault {} #yiv829915856 .MsoPapDefault {margin-bottom:10.0pt;line-height:115%;} _filtered #yiv829915856 {margin:1.0in 1.0in 1.0in 1.0in;} #yiv829915856 div.Section1 {} --> </style> <div class="MsoNormal">First I want to start off by thanking Christina for letting me guest blog.<span style=""> </span>She does quite the job with this blog.<span style=""><br /><br /></span></div> <div class="MsoNormal">Well it’s less than 3<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">0</span></span> days until pitchers and catchers report.<span style=""> </span>It’s been an exciting <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">offseason</span>, but one looming question remains.<span style=""> </span>What will the Yankees do with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">LF</span>?<br /><br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal">Currently, the payroll is right around 200 million and <span style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); cursor: pointer;" class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1263962833_0">Hal <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Steinbrenner</span></span> claims the Yankees have 2 million left to spend.<span style=""> </span>Could this be a tactic to get Damon to lower his demands or is he really serious about staying to a budget?<br /><br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal">Damon had a solid year last season, but his value seems to be most when he’s able to play half his games at <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1263962833_1">Yankee Stadium</span>.<span style=""> </span>He’s a liability defensively.<span style=""> </span>He had a poor September and he ended up getting hurt in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">WS</span>.<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>I do not see the Yankees giving him more than 1 year.<span style=""> </span>I think Damon’s pride will not allow him to go back to NY at such a discount.<span style=""> </span>Atlanta I suppose can be an option for Damon if they trade <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Melky</span>.<span style=""> </span>However, it seems like Damon is heading down the road <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Abreu</span> was last year where he overestimated the market and had no suitors.<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Abreu</span> had no offers heading into February and was forced to take a low 1 year deal.<br /><br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal">This seems to be a situation where having <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1263962833_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Boras</span></span> as an agent hurt Damon.<span style=""> </span>Damon being on the market helped another <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Boras</span> client, <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1263962833_3">Matt <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Holliday</span></span>, get more money, but it has not helped <span style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); cursor: pointer;" class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1263962833_4">Johnny Damon</span>.</div> <div class="MsoNormal">Ultimately, I think Damon’s days as a Yankee appear to over unless he really took a hefty pay cut.<span style=""> </span>So where do the Yankees go from there?<span style=""><br /><br /></span></div> <div class="MsoNormal">One option is <span style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); cursor: pointer;" class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1263962833_5">Brett Gardner</span> and maybe they look for a <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1263962833_6">left fielder</span> that can hit lefties to platoon in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">LF</span>.<span style=""> </span>Gardner has speed, plays good enough OF, and hits <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">ok</span>.<span style=""> </span>No power, but he gives us another dimension to our lineup.<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>I do not think he is the solution long term at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">LF</span>, but for 2010 or at least til like July or August in 2010 the team should be <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">ok</span> with him.<br /><br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal">It is possible going into the season with Gardner and then later in the season acquiring someone to play <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">LF</span>.<span style=""> </span>There are usually outfielders available during the season.<span style=""> </span>All they really need is a stop gap guy.<span style=""> </span>Some that gives them depth.<span style=""> </span>The Yankees do not have to have an all star at every position.<span style=""> </span>With that said, if the price was right the Yankees should not intentionally pass up on a player that could fill a need.<br /><br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal">Another option could be <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1263962833_7">Xavier Nady</span>.<span style=""> </span>Odds are him and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Boras</span> will want a lot, but the reality is he’ll have to take a cheap incentive based deal.<span style=""> </span>Also guys like <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Ankiel</span> and Dye are still available.</div> <div class="MsoNormal">I am looking forward to a return to baseball.<span style=""> </span>Nets and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Knicks</span> just <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">aren</span>’t filling in the gap.<span style=""> </span>There are the <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1263962833_8">NFL playoffs</span>, but baseball is what I have been waiting for.<br /><br />------------<br />Thanks Kyle. I hope everyone still reading is doing well! Sorry for being such a slacker. Once baseball returns there will be more as the adventures are just beginning!<br /></div> </div>Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-67202685997594008012009-12-29T17:37:00.003-05:002009-12-29T17:50:45.732-05:00I'm Back! It's sure been an exciting off-season<span style="font-weight: bold;">Brief recap of the 2009 off season acquisitions</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Yankees Acquired:</span><br /><ul><li>Javier Vazquez</li><li>Boone Logan</li><li>Nick Johnson</li><li>Curtis <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Granderson</span></span></li><li>Jamie <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Hoffmann</span></span></li><li>Matt <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Holliday</span></span>... <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">ok</span></span>, just kidding, though I did have a dream that he was acquired.<br /></li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Yankees Resigned</span><br /><ul><li>Andy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Pettitte</span></span></li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Payroll: </span>Is (currently) slightly lower than the previous year, though the team still needs to sign a left fielder.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Positive:</span> Solid 1-4 starters. Vazquez will give the Yankees that strong #4 starter that they did not have last year. Though I believe injuries could play a part in the 2010 season. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Pettitte</span></span> has an iffy elbow and I wonder about Burnett at times. Curtis <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Granderson</span></span> should be an excellent addition to the team; with his contribution on the field and also off the field with his charitable work. Only think I wonder is how good of a #2 hitter he will be. That's the plan right? Unless Damon somehow signs back with the team.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Negative:</span> Replacing Nick Johnson with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Matsui</span></span>? I think it's a decent move if Johnson stays healthy. Then again, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Matsui</span></span> also wasn't the healthiest individual either. At least Johnson provides you with the flexibility of playing first base when the Yankees want to give <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Teixiera</span></span> a day off.<br /><br />The Yankees appear to be in good shape. Especially when you compare them to the other team that plays in New York.<br /><br />Also, I finished the Marty <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Appell</span> book on Thurman <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Munson</span>, and it was amazing.. I am going to write a review up on it and post it hopefully later tonight or tomorrow.Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-84902497069850173282009-12-24T16:53:00.002-05:002009-12-24T16:56:48.324-05:00Happy Holidays!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.saltspring.com/OLDISLAND/images/392_Happy%20holidays.gif"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 342px; height: 265px;" src="http://www.saltspring.com/OLDISLAND/images/392_Happy%20holidays.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />The blog will be back in action after Christmas! Finally done with graduate school and my Christmas shopping is near complete. It has been an insane month or two. I hope everyone is doing well!<br /><br />Have a great holiday everyone and try to stay warm :)Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-7274658310430879562009-12-12T17:39:00.005-05:002009-12-12T19:05:37.488-05:00Winter Meetings<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq37kqyXFh8pEJ0WjQeSwbCLK5UzbEim3oBFZhAa2aYHF42Olha8whyvdMCuM72CT8vTWjadjO-xRGoJ5wEDfKLzRB14m_ev2yIp4o5bCV9i2bRgyfCoBsCr3E0OBIID5axdDoJ27X124/s1600-h/meeting7.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq37kqyXFh8pEJ0WjQeSwbCLK5UzbEim3oBFZhAa2aYHF42Olha8whyvdMCuM72CT8vTWjadjO-xRGoJ5wEDfKLzRB14m_ev2yIp4o5bCV9i2bRgyfCoBsCr3E0OBIID5axdDoJ27X124/s400/meeting7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414500508583170402" border="0" /></a><br />Well, the Winter Meetings have now come to a close and the Yankees have come home with a new player to add to their team. As part of a 3-way trade, the Yankees acquired Curtis <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Granderson</span> from the Tigers in which the Yankees sent Austin Jackson and Phil Coke to Detroit and Ian Kennedy to Arizona. In addition, Detroit sent Edwin Jackson to Arizona and Max <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Scherzer</span> and Daniel <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Schlerth</span> were traded from Arizona to Detroit. It is an interesting trade, one which appears to have benefit the Yankees the most, though the true test will come during the season if we can see how well <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Granderson</span> can hit lefties.<br /><br />When it comes to Austin Jackson, I personally don't think hes ready, but a team like Detroit can take the chance in allowing him to grow in the majors. As a Yankee, I couldn't see Jackson being their everyday starting <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">centerfielder</span> just yet. He still needs to work on his plate discipline and start hitting more for power. The man does have speed though, something that Curtis <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Granderson</span> also does have.<br /><br />As for Arizona? Not sure how well they made out on this trade. Guess we will see how the young guys develop before a determination can really be accurately made.<br /><br />Regardless, here are some cool pictures I stole (I am crediting!) from <a href="http://blog.timesunion.com/christopher/">Vic Christopher's blog.</a> Though I <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">don't</span> agree with how they run the club, he has put together a fun blog, so I highly suggest you check it out. There are some behind the scene shots at the lovely winter meetings, where the writers appeared to have stayed inside a convention centre/hotel for the entire week. Seems exciting.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Patriots Superbowl wins that were on display. Yuck.</span><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrFpswx9me0f_a8tR4ueAQlp7iuUp-bcc6d1MQWVeZL3LneACLOP-sxoXfe5yiamzRtdAjFch04yhGWzCTUfdKqM13V4xVPA79Y6wqUlHL-lSjNg8KMAEVYzziSDwkBJX3XP3Os9F_DI/s1600-h/meeting4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrFpswx9me0f_a8tR4ueAQlp7iuUp-bcc6d1MQWVeZL3LneACLOP-sxoXfe5yiamzRtdAjFch04yhGWzCTUfdKqM13V4xVPA79Y6wqUlHL-lSjNg8KMAEVYzziSDwkBJX3XP3Os9F_DI/s400/meeting4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414497215157023266" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">I guess this is where all the action took place</span><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8IvKX-QQO5ZmE6Hb5xl49YmJyJ2v0_2xlvpDz902ozJVUQ6YYspigvvmkkDKg6IxRxUwEkXYNaCjfN8_h6jDszlaikT-c_4_wH7QqhOJwBp1NswFLeReTROzdr85xe7ksFMbUxfl2Auk/s1600-h/meeting5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8IvKX-QQO5ZmE6Hb5xl49YmJyJ2v0_2xlvpDz902ozJVUQ6YYspigvvmkkDKg6IxRxUwEkXYNaCjfN8_h6jDszlaikT-c_4_wH7QqhOJwBp1NswFLeReTROzdr85xe7ksFMbUxfl2Auk/s400/meeting5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414497219689856050" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Here are some new products that were on display</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">This item is called the Swing Rite. It is a type of <a href="http://compare.ebay.com/like/120483709482">training aid</a> that was designed to increase bat swing speed and improve hand-eye coordination<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrgtg778jKHIIExWAnNkO3kEkeuP-XUVajs5qYD1Gi4azMA74Bk5G2KpPEq7nwS_CnpSvCdlJpxEptv4yDXT1y1Ukg9JOziBOOw0W6IQgGrzAYQ_4TEsPpw_CWkOJa-xlalcjresaBc1Y/s1600-h/meeting1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrgtg778jKHIIExWAnNkO3kEkeuP-XUVajs5qYD1Gi4azMA74Bk5G2KpPEq7nwS_CnpSvCdlJpxEptv4yDXT1y1Ukg9JOziBOOw0W6IQgGrzAYQ_4TEsPpw_CWkOJa-xlalcjresaBc1Y/s400/meeting1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414497197087077698" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">This is a glove that can be used while batting or for catchers and was designed to protect the wrists <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh68jZdRaKKN44OVpgEbqXlSd9eFi6LhIBI6UX8mfA7mSMrBZ5fDYpNTsjdiDCky5dfvMm7BSwGaGVNTZIeKRhWTapSaIpN186t13PtEKaEcMgCx9ehTmszh-VcDXuuyX1mTZKVGgrAVU8/s1600-h/meeting2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh68jZdRaKKN44OVpgEbqXlSd9eFi6LhIBI6UX8mfA7mSMrBZ5fDYpNTsjdiDCky5dfvMm7BSwGaGVNTZIeKRhWTapSaIpN186t13PtEKaEcMgCx9ehTmszh-VcDXuuyX1mTZKVGgrAVU8/s400/meeting2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414497205033697602" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Some sort of underwater <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">apparatus</span>. <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Couldn't</span> find <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">anything</span> about it online though.<br /></div><br /><div style="border: medium none ; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-decoration: none;" id="TixyyLink"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcsrTQocLYSv0tWSKghHDsFs3rGW1o1QC_t2AXx6Topp8yF5EgNkIDbflwEOh_8A7fnp-KcswFmxSyR7mFJBDlHa633AwVF_heznKRHT2gmBoKVCRj4VLZjL8KPiWtqY_iaIOIAhQFJBw/s1600-h/meeting3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcsrTQocLYSv0tWSKghHDsFs3rGW1o1QC_t2AXx6Topp8yF5EgNkIDbflwEOh_8A7fnp-KcswFmxSyR7mFJBDlHa633AwVF_heznKRHT2gmBoKVCRj4VLZjL8KPiWtqY_iaIOIAhQFJBw/s400/meeting3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414497210366628434" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Peter <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Gammons</span> doing some sort of interview<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY6tExZx3pxyR48EFapgnUmWXlHFDfL7KTVZKjUaOxLnfbLopCGz5uUi61EBD022xy62xCgadnxHilqIj43MJDD4aKRgIj3z5Q2gJRhYwDIawIcDJ-gu_hcrIGjYEPxvHOe1WbRpBwxqQ/s1600-h/meeting6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY6tExZx3pxyR48EFapgnUmWXlHFDfL7KTVZKjUaOxLnfbLopCGz5uUi61EBD022xy62xCgadnxHilqIj43MJDD4aKRgIj3z5Q2gJRhYwDIawIcDJ-gu_hcrIGjYEPxvHOe1WbRpBwxqQ/s400/meeting6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414500503093008722" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /></div>Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-39232579938841274632009-12-10T17:47:00.003-05:002009-12-10T23:16:20.273-05:00Farewell, Zach KroenkeToday was the day of the Rule 5 draft. <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">This</span> is a rule that has been intact for many years and was implemented as a way to prevent teams from stock-piling too many free agents. Here is a blurb about the draft (from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">wikipedia</span>) for those of you who are not familiar with it:<br /><p></p><p></p><blockquote style="font-style: italic;"><p>As in the amateur draft, the selection order of the teams is based on each team's win-loss record from the prior regular season, each round starting with the team with the worst record and proceeding in order to the team with the best record. Any player selected under Rule 5 is immediately added to his new team's <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Major_League_Baseball_transactions#25.2F40_Man_Roster" title="Major League Baseball transactions">40-man roster</a>; thus, teams who do not have an available roster spot may not participate in the Rule 5 draft. Players who are not currently on their team's 40-man roster are eligible to be selected in the Rule 5 draft, but only after a standard exemption period has elapsed. See Selection eligibility below.</p> <p>If chosen in the Rule 5 draft, a player must be kept on the selecting team's 25-man major league roster for the entire season after the draft—he may not be optioned or designated to the minors. The selecting team may, at any time, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Major_League_Baseball_transactions#Waivers" title="Major League Baseball transactions">waive</a> the Rule 5 draftee. If a Rule 5 draftee clears waivers by not signing with a new <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">MLB</span> team, he must be offered back to the original team, effectively canceling the Rule 5 draft choice. Once a Rule 5 draftee spends an entire season on his new team's 25-man roster, his status reverts to normal and he may be optioned or designated for assignment.</p></blockquote><p></p>Players that can be selected from the Rule 5 draft are those that are not included on the 40 man roster and have been with the same <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">organization</span> for four years (signed after age 18) or for five years (signed at age 18 or younger)<br /><br />The reason I am rambling is because the Yankees decided to not place Zach <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Kroenke</span> on their 40 man roster, which would have protected him from being selected as part of this draft. He was picked up by the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">D'Backs</span> today; a selection that I should be surprised about as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Kroenke</span> has shown he has talent that is worthy of that selection. Hes a solid lefty with a decent fastball and a slider. As I embarked on my travels to AAA games this year, I found myself drawn to this play. I am disappointed he is no longer a Yankee and wish him well on his new journey. It was obvious the Yankees didn't have much interest in him and he will hopefully get more playing time now that hes on a different team.Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-35922866224816911292009-12-05T23:22:00.002-05:002009-12-05T23:27:39.011-05:00I hope Al Leiter doesn't threaten to take down my blog....It looks as if the Yankees are trying to take down their own fans. Over at The Yankee Universe blog, they <a href="http://www.theyankeeuniverse.com/?p=12027">posted an entry</a> that stated they were contacted by someone to change the URL of their blog. The letter on their website states:<br /><blockquote><p>"Your unauthorized uses of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">MLB</span> Marks on the Website and in the Domain Name are likely to cause confusion, mistake and deception as to the existence of an affiliation, connection or association between your business on the one hand, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">MLBAM</span>, and/or other applicable <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">MLB</span> Entities on the other, and constitute trademark infringement, dilution and unfair competition in violation of federal and state law. </p> <p>Accordingly, demand is hereby made that you immediately cease and desist from using the YANKEE UNIVERSE name and the Logo, any other Yankees Mark and any other <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">MLB</span> Mark in and as the name of your Website, to promote the Website, to seek advertising any other commercial opportunities, in and as the Domain Name, and in any other manner that would cause consumer confusion, dilution of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">MLB</span> Marks, or imply any sponsorship or endorsement of your Website or its contents by any <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">MLB</span> Entity"</p></blockquote>I guess this isn't surprising, though I think it is lame they are going after a group of guys who clearly are not <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">profiting</span> form their <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">website</span>. They write about the team they love. Why do the Yankees and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">MLB</span> have to bull everyone?<br /><br />Al <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Leiter</span> you cant take away my blog. You or your bullpen catcher. Sorry. Ill trademark it myself if I have to!<br /><br /><p></p>Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-52730836672113176382009-12-02T11:44:00.007-05:002009-12-03T18:15:33.966-05:00Oh where oh where will Roy Halladay go?The great Roy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Halladay</span> (HAL-a day not <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">HOL</span>-i-day.. I hate how people mispronounce his name) has announced to the world that he will not engage in trade talks during the regular season.<br /><br />With that, Toronto has to make a decision to trade him before Spring Training or keep him on the team for the entire season. This was the best -and most obvious- move for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Hallday</span>, given the distractions he faced last year around the trade deadline when he was uncertain as to which team he was going to be on.<br /><br />If I am the Blue Jays, I would look for a team that's willing to give me some decent young players in exchange for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Halladay</span> before camp meets in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">February</span>. I <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">doubt</span> the Jays are going to get as much in return now (as he would have gotten during the trade deadline) but they know they don't have a shot at having him past 2010 and they need to start developing the team for the future. In trading a huge star like Halladay, they should be able to acquire some decent prospect that will be able to help them now and/or eventually down the road.<br /><br />At this stage in the game this has to be Toronto's approach. They have to realize <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">that</span> there is no way to compete with the Yankees and Red <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Sox</span> payroll. It must now be able developing young players and putting <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">a lot</span> into the draft. They have done well with that over the years in getting some decent pitchers, but the key now is keeping these guys healthy and continuing to make smart decisions during the draft. In addition, they need to start spending their money wisely when it comes to free agents. While the Vernon Wells deal looked good in the beginning, it has ended up being a huge mistake; one that is taking up a huge part of their payroll and hindering them from signing other key free agents.<br /><br />If I am the Jays, player development is key along with trading away the great Roy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Halladay</span>. I will be very bummed with this happens (and inconsolable if he goes to the Red <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Sox</span>) but for the better of the organization, it needs to happen. I personally hope he goes to the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Phillies</span>.Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-82708828026936215412009-11-28T11:52:00.001-05:002009-11-28T11:53:34.861-05:00My Poor BlogDue to a horrible grad school professor, my blog has been neglected. Come December 15th when this hell is over, I will return. Please stick around for those who are even left! I have some news to share that's quite exciting!Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-82533297698967913372009-11-23T22:46:00.001-05:002009-11-23T22:46:52.251-05:00Quick SurveyOut of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">curiosity</span>, how much money do you think Miguel Cabrera paid <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Keizo</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Konishi</span> for that first place vote?Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-10537346739096327502009-11-21T08:18:00.002-05:002009-11-21T08:23:00.992-05:00Roy HalladayAccording to Jordan Bastian of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">MLB</span>.com, The Jays are apparently talking to the Cubs about the GREAT Roy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Halladay</span>. While the <a href="http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091120&content_id=7696544&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb">article claims</a> the Jays GM is currently <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">isn't</span> shopping any of their players, it seems as if its only a matter of time before Harry departs the Jays to head elsewhere. Please pray with me that it is somewhere in the AL or the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Mets</span>, where I at least would be able to watch him pitch. I bet he'd do great in Philly actually, with a 1-2 punch of Lee and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Halladay</span>.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/_AqXVSc2EzM&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/_AqXVSc2EzM&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-64072768228448944512009-11-16T21:17:00.003-05:002009-11-16T21:23:50.621-05:00Mascot loveI was doing some <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">YouTube</span> surfing this morning and came across these two videos. In the first one with the Mascot's fighting, all I have to say is where is the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Phanatic</span>? I think he is the only Mascot that could take on the great Ace from the Blue Jays.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/fRzKRA11A3Y&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/fRzKRA11A3Y&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />The second one is good too. Lets hope the Yankees <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">dont</span> ever get a mascot.<br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/RO0tQuQF41Y&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/RO0tQuQF41Y&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-11799177226275770772009-11-15T13:46:00.020-05:002009-11-15T22:46:20.474-05:00Welcome to Corporate AmericaGreg <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Clary</span></span> of The Journal-News wrote an article in today's paper about an <a href="http://www.lohud.com/article2009911150360">autograph session </a>that took place at the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Greentree</span></span></span></span> Country Club in New Rochelle, New York. Those in attendance included the likes of Joe <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Girardi</span></span></span></span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Joba</span></span></span></span> Chamberlain, David Cone, Don Larsen, and Alex Rodriguez.<br /><br />The cost of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">receiving</span> an autograph at this event ranged from $250 to $475 a PIECE. The best part of the article was how the money collected was not raised to go to a charity. In Albany, they have an annual event in January that brings together a player on the Yankees and also a few players on the Giants as a way to raise money for The Center for Disability Services. This is a <a href="http://www.cfdsny.org/About-us.html">great organization </a>that helps out and covers the costs of services that are needed for children and adults who are suffering from disabilities and chronic medical conditions. Not only do they do great work for the Capital Region, but they also serve people across the US. Right now the governor is trying to cut 2.5 million dollars in state aid that they were supposed to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">receive</span>, which really is going to hurt this organization.<br /><br />The point I am trying to make is that it's unbelievable to read that these players making millions of dollars (along with the man from Steiner Sports) are collecting nearly $500 from fans just for the signing of one autograph. It's one thing if the money is going towards a good cause, but for them to pocket this money is just amazing to me. An organization such as the Center for Disability could really benefit from a thing like this. Of course, there is always that <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">possibility</span> that some of the guys actually gave their earnings to a charity- I almost want to hope that is the case. But to be honest, you really never know with these players. I guess when you look at it, it's more amazing that someone would shell out so much money to have a 4 second meeting with A-Rod and have him autograph a ball.<br /><br />Here's a hint: go to a baseball game and try your luck at getting something signed for free. I have autographs from A-Rod, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Jeter</span></span></span></span>, Damon, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Teixiera</span></span></span></span>, etc..., which were all attained from meeting the players and were at no cost. The only autograph I ever paid for was the Brian <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Bruney</span></span></span></span> autograph I got last year for a kid I tutor, and it was for a cost of 20 dollars; all of which went to support the Center for Disability Services in Albany.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYq5VTsuafzSiwKPWiaq_61PtdBPaldN6oKiyLMm3vc8S4MFkgg7l_zeTpMsNPNHSQpg13nHt_TgYrV_3ihxWDDgrVAGIOq1RUL7nCAs-6IdJa6hwBczxLtPZ4l8e0P6i70DV2XW8EdPA/s1600-h/017.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYq5VTsuafzSiwKPWiaq_61PtdBPaldN6oKiyLMm3vc8S4MFkgg7l_zeTpMsNPNHSQpg13nHt_TgYrV_3ihxWDDgrVAGIOq1RUL7nCAs-6IdJa6hwBczxLtPZ4l8e0P6i70DV2XW8EdPA/s400/017.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404515125070741170" border="0" /></a><p style="text-align: center;"><span class="aa"></span></p>Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-11736569980311270692009-11-13T08:07:00.006-05:002009-11-15T22:21:13.761-05:00What was he thinking?I know I am about 10 days late on this one, but this is my last semester in my Master's program and the work has been overwhelming. <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Here's</span> a photo I found enjoyable, courtesy of I think Bryan Hoch of MLB.com<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopLQ2GpPBBBhyY12cZPQqMDOu6nQmITbP_ShWRkjpkt8jq9QXnA5vZMwlXqn-_VpVSFwszOQ2WpNRD6iLQeT2rGMynpxab84LLW4gaw4TtdUK9BGaw1u0D9eIBDFobtbr2_WKjDBqszw/s1600-h/arod+hat.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopLQ2GpPBBBhyY12cZPQqMDOu6nQmITbP_ShWRkjpkt8jq9QXnA5vZMwlXqn-_VpVSFwszOQ2WpNRD6iLQeT2rGMynpxab84LLW4gaw4TtdUK9BGaw1u0D9eIBDFobtbr2_WKjDBqszw/s400/arod+hat.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5403575371593860290" border="0" /></a>Just a note to A-Rod: This hat does not make you look the least bit attractive. In fact, it makes you look silly.<br />-----------------------<br />Also, here's some news about former closer John <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Wetteland</span>. When the reports were first published, they stated that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Wetteland</span> was depressed and on some sort of <a href="http://www.nypost.com/p/news/national/former_yankee_wetteland_hospitalized_5sZApeyEsX8xDNrwlcwleP">suicide watch</a>. Now, according the the AP,<a href="http://www.usatoday.com/sports/baseball/2009-11-13-wetteland-hospital_N.htm?csp=34"> it was <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">claimed</span> that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Wettleland</span> had an elevated <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">heart rate</span></a> due to stress and was treated and now currently is at home with his wife. Regardless, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">hopefully</span> hes doing better and it <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">isn't</span> anything too serious.Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-91761594221732924652009-11-08T18:28:00.003-05:002009-11-14T18:14:44.202-05:00A season of baseball starting from spring training to the world series paradeThe 2009 baseball season has now come to an end, so I decided to go through all of the pictures I have taken throughout the course of the year, and put them into a large montage. This thing took me forever to do, so if you have the time, check it out. It is a little long, but between the spring training games, games in NY and Toronto, all the minor league games, and my trip to Ohio and Kentucky, the pictures accumulated. I did limit it down which was very hard to do!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><embed src="http://www.onetruemedia.com/share_view_player?p=9d24bc5f1981d0cb31a427" quality="high" scale="noscale" wmode="transparent" name="FLVPlayer" salign="LT" flashvars="&p=9d24bc5f1981d0cb31a427&skin_id=601&host=http://www.onetruemedia.com" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" width="600" height="526"></embed><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: verdana,arial,sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 20px; padding-bottom: 15px; width: 600px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.onetruemedia.com/landing?&utm_source=emplay&utm_medium=txt2" target="_blank" style="text-decoration: none;"><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></a></div></div>Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-79327875648917357552009-11-07T21:24:00.008-05:002009-11-08T09:20:21.759-05:00World Series Parade- What was with Arod's hat? Yikes!Here are some photos from the parade on Friday, thanks to my friend Kyle! I wish I could have gone but I had a Comp. exam to take for my Master's program. Oh well. Hopefully all those who went had a good time!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC2Gj_wU6BjcWu7tL6RygcxUIay6m8Un9WewWyfYl9LRT-YhHMTs26HmaRGwwsVREjvqRID3Bwp6jlezl8fuHgjrF3x1LB1noM6RcSMMfwYDOBX2trPm4sRRDIwnlg4TyqqGVShxKCMTg/s1600-h/001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC2Gj_wU6BjcWu7tL6RygcxUIay6m8Un9WewWyfYl9LRT-YhHMTs26HmaRGwwsVREjvqRID3Bwp6jlezl8fuHgjrF3x1LB1noM6RcSMMfwYDOBX2trPm4sRRDIwnlg4TyqqGVShxKCMTg/s400/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401558691136502530" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9yTdSTSLj7C8tBH7d-REPjvBpaAkX850MwN2V69whJZimHgRIu3V8yXA2FTVtZiLs20hNXNBaF6wczvw1eo5UOhL8y5sJrzNDKkpd6AnVpnE2V38Uxnii0KR0bTsHkT0QVTPZ9uOVpds/s1600-h/010.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; 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display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjICEK4VngHvsklw7fnBPe4wfXV7r3pL0VNrzmFIM0i85dqN-XsmxwX8vXbt_hyphenhyphenW3E53IhffU-rVGPxBbp2O8oW4xOWqbhipyPSdOhQGynNaLbJEBj-9Ft4v9ajlTLoSkF8ojevzqMGRG0/s400/074.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401560901955082610" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicuevBmNwH0H6h4Sksl5wpQ5DuJd6M9DCCkJqiqhXhrKrMEa2o6salv7Ok_zZgrgYe_l83XO4RWwxwtqqds3Y0SD2p3L1gKlPW5zhUftFpox3KwlcYfgAQUe274njXlBpkVlyziDnRTqE/s1600-h/072.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicuevBmNwH0H6h4Sksl5wpQ5DuJd6M9DCCkJqiqhXhrKrMEa2o6salv7Ok_zZgrgYe_l83XO4RWwxwtqqds3Y0SD2p3L1gKlPW5zhUftFpox3KwlcYfgAQUe274njXlBpkVlyziDnRTqE/s400/072.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401560896571345330" border="0" /></a>Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8278533327344154144.post-9576543678171413022009-11-05T11:31:00.003-05:002009-11-05T11:41:43.832-05:00World Series over, Yanks win their 27thFirst off, congrats to the Yankees on securing their 27<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span> World Series Championship. It seemed like the playoffs lasted for about 2 months, which I can't fully complain about as I love the game of baseball. I was at a school today and the number of kids wearing Yankee shirts was quite large. Can you take a guess what player a majority of the kids had on their back?<br /><br />Anyhow, it seems you either love the Yankees or you hate them. For me, the World Series seemed to have the most competition. The <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Twins</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">played</span> like crap and their defense let them down immensely. Same thing happened with the Angels, though they did make a comeback. I felt like the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Phillies</span> put up quite a fight and a better bullpen/closer might have helped put them over the top (Howard showing up to play might have helped also).<br /><br />I keep reading the money aspect, which as a Yankee fan, I have to be realistic and agree with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">a lot</span> of people. I am going to spend a few days when I have time <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">analyzing</span> some figures to see how much money really does play a factor. You would be an ignorant fan to say that money plays no effect. It just isn't the case; <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">everything</span> always comes down to money.<br /><br />Regardless, if you are a baseball fan in general today is a somewhat sad day as the season is now <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">officially</span> over. Here is a poem i read that I thought you might like and describes me to a T.<br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);font-size:130%;" ><br /></span><p style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;">When someone asks you your favorite sport<br />And you answer Baseball in a blink<br />There are certain qualities you must possess<br />And you're more attached than you think.<br />In the frozen grip of winter<br />I'm sure you'll agree with me<br />Not a day goes by without someone<br />Talking baseball to some degree.<br />The calendar flips on New Year's Day<br />The Super Bowl comes and it goes<br />Get the other sports out of the way<br />The green grass and the fever grows.<br />It's time to pack a bag and take a trip<br />To Arizona or the Sunshine State<br />Perhaps you can't go, but there's the radio<br />So you listen-you root-you wait.<br />They start the campaign, pomp and pageantry reign<br />You claim the pennant on Opening Day<br /></span></p><div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold; font-family: arial; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"> </div><p style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;">From April till fall<br />You follow the bouncing white ball<br />Your team is set to go all the way.<br />They fall short of the series<br />You have a case of the "wearies"<br />And need as break from the game<br />But when Christmas bells jingle<br />You feel that old tingle<br />And you're ready for more of the same.<br />It will be hot dogs for dinner<br />Six months of heaven, a winner<br />Yes, Baseball has always been it.<br />You would amaze all your friends<br />If they knew to what ends<br />You'd go for a little old hit.<br />The best times you're had<br />Have been with your Mom and your Dad<br />And a bat and a ball and a glove.</span></p><div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold; font-family: arial; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"> </div><p style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;">From the first time you played<br />Till the last time you prayed<br />It's been a simple matter of love.</span></p><div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold; font-family: arial; color: rgb(102, 51, 255);"> </div><p style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><i>365</i> </span><span style="font-size:130%;">by Jack Buck</span></p>Al Leiter's Bullpen Catcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11689195573801645992noreply@blogger.com7