Amy Nelson

  (9:28 AM)

Hi Guys, We'll be starting the chat in about 30 minutes. We'll be talking a lot of baseball, and I'm sure baron Davis. Also, o you think the Red Sox are in trouble? THoughts on the Yankees, or anything else you may want to discuss. Send in your smart questions and opinions and I'll share some on the show.

Amy Nelson

  (10:01 AM)

OK guys we're about to get started here..

Giovanni (Boston, MA)

Amy, a couple of weeks ago I joked and said, "Rays - Marlins in the World Series!" but seriously ... what is going on with these Florida baseball teams this year???

Amy Nelson

  (10:02 AM)

Well i still don't think the Marlins are going to make it there ... but the Rays are for real. ALl along I've wondered if Percival would be able to make it through the season...we'll see...

Joe (Dallas, TX)

I'm really surprised about baseball this season because of the Rays and the Ranger(who just beat the Yanks two straight) being great.

Amy Nelson

  (10:06 AM)

Joe I wouldn't call the Rangers great, just yet.

Giovanni (Boston, MA)

You still don't think it's good for baseball to have these small market teams succeed, Amy?

Amy Nelson

  (10:07 AM)

yes, absolutely.

Jacob (Findlay, Oh)

If I was a Red Sox fan I would be scared of these Tampa Bay Rays. They are for real and I am taking them all the way to the World Series.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

If the Rays end up playing the Marlins in the World Series, you may see more people in the dugouts than you'll see in the stands.

Amy Nelson

  (10:07 AM)

not sure about that anymore ... remember the marlins drew five years ago...

Baron Davis (LA)

Woah, I just woke up..my head hurts and I don't remember last night. What happened???

Paul (Indianapolis, IN)

The Rays are showing that a good scouting department and GM that can put together a good young line up can compete against the older higher paid organizations.

bradley (atl, ga)

Its been along time and I shouldnt have left you....

Amy Nelson

  (10:08 AM)

correct

Joe (Dallas, TX)

Josh Hamilton, Ian Kinsler, Milton Bradley, and Michael Young are all-stars in my book.

Amy Nelson

  (10:09 AM)

Joe, Funny I was at Yankee Stadium yesterdy and I think all three of those guys are making the team ... and they all should start (though Young won't, it'll be Jeter)

Nick (Rochelle park, NJ)

I'm a Yankees fan and I'm scared of the Rays. This could the the end of the playoffs streak in the Bronx.

Adam (syracuse,ny)

Amazing, all the questions about the Yanks is pitching...but Joba and Moose goes out gives back to back quality starts and the power goes out for the offense?

bradley (atl, ga)

baron, youre an idiot. what makes you think you can make the clippers successful?

Kev (NYC)

I love how everyone gets on the Rays wagon. Just wait, please. Just wait. They'll finish 3rd in the East after the Yanks/Sox make their push & deadline moves.

Jason V (Boston)

Anyone seem my bat? I know I left it somewhere.

Amy Nelson

  (10:10 AM)

yes, jason, you're struggling right now

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

The Rays have benefitted from playing in a city where they don't care if a team wins or loses. There was no pressure to move out talented kids for quick fix talent so they all got to grow together and become a solid team. They remind me a lot of the Braves from the early 90s.

Dwight(Harrisonburg, VA)

It's still to early to really know what will happen. If the Mets can fall off like they did at the end of last year, then anything is possible. The Rays are inexperienced.

Amy Nelson

  (10:10 AM)

good point, Dwight. Number one question seems to be how they'll handle pennant baseball

Giovanni (Boston, MA)

I'm a Red Sox fan and I'm not frightened of the Rays. Every team has its swoons. I'm sure they'll hit one soon and the Red Sox will pick it up once Ortiz returns to the lineup.

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

No way will the Marlins make the playoffs. The Phils will win the East and the Cards will get the wild card berth.

Jake (Syracuse)

Amy, why can't people get off the Mets back, there 3 1/2 games back from 1st place. If they go on a 7 or 8 game win streak, they could be in 1st place.

Brian (Sandusky, Ohio)

Why is A-Rod skipping the Homerun derby? Thats just like LeBron skipping the dunk contest!

alan (fayetteville,nc)

They could have geritol night in southern florida

Brad (Baltimore, MD)

I am a die hard Baltimore Orioles fan, but I think this year I have to give the Rays credit for what they are doing. I can only hope the Orioles do the same in a couple years.

Paul (Indianapolis, IN)

The Rays are starting to look like the AL version of what the Marlins did, I just hope the Rays if they win the world series doesn't blow up the team like the Marlins did twice before.

Amy Nelson

  (10:12 AM)

that won't happen, there's a committment from this ownership team

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Amy this is just for you: The NY Yankees have gotten quality starts from their pitchers in 54.7% of their games. Meanwhile the offense has scored for or fewer runs in 54.7% of their games. You cannot blame the pitching in the Bronx for what is happening.

Brad (Baltimore, MD)

The Rays are for real, but I think as of right now, Manager of the Year goes to Dave Trembley for what he is doing with the Orioles.

Nick (Jersey)

I think one of the greatest things about baseball is the best team on paper doesn't win as often as in football and basketball. Nothing reflects this more than the Yankees troubles in recent years and the success of teams like Rays and Marlins.

Baron Davis (LA)

You may be right, Bradley. But either way I still have a cool beard

Brendan (Merrick, NY)

I gotta agree with Nick-the way the Yanks are playing they could definetly miss the playoffs. ALso if Giardi keeps making stupid managerial moves (how do you not have MElky bunt last night?!?!?) this could be a long year-and not in a good way

Amy Nelson

  (10:13 AM)

i agree, i know it's the AL, but bunt him over...

Adam (syracuse,ny)

Amy, have we seen any reason for us to believe the mets are capable of putting together a 7-8 game win streak?

Amy Nelson

  (10:13 AM)

not too much this year

Paul (Indianapolis, IN)

The Red Soxs aren't in trouble yet, they will be in trouble this post-season when they meet up with a fresher younger Rays team, which will show the Red Soxs age like the Marlins did to the Yanks in 2002.

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

The Rays are an exciting team to watch but they are fool's gold. It's one thing to win in June with inexperienced players. However, come August when they have the Sox and Yanks breathing down their necks it will be a different story. The Rays will finish in 3rd place at best.

Kev (NYC)

Name ONE player on the Rays who has played a meaningful game past the month of July? Cliff Floyd? maybe a few years ago but he's not even the 8th most important player on the team. Percival goes on the DL and I don't care who you are, you need an effective closer to win. There's 3 months left and they'll be hunted from here out. Nice story, but it just ain't happening this year in this division.

Jeremy, Morgantown WV

A-Rod is A-Fraud for not participating in the home run derby in the final all star game in yankee stadium.

Paul (Indianapolis, IN)

As a life long Yanks fan I got worried about the Rays this Spring when they got in a spring training brawl showing their mentality had changed thanks to their coach and new look.

Brian (sandusky, ohio)

A-Rod and Mandona? What is up with that?

Amy Nelson

  (10:16 AM)

not sure but the sportswriters had to shamefully ask him about it last nite ..."no comment" was basiclaly what they got.

Tom (Valparaiso, IN)

Good morning, Amy. Ironic that Ozzie Guillen's rant about the WS non-hitting and leaving men on base was right after the Ray's series. Now, the Red Sox nation (as well as Skip) are having the same conversations. The Ray's pitching and defense can be frustrating.

Nick (Charleston, SC)

I think the Rays will hold on. The Yankees are just too old and the Red Sox have to stop winning at one point.

Jeff (Ohio)

Are there any real SS left in the AL? It's pretty sad that Michael Young is the best one while hitting .287 with 7 HR.

Amy Nelson

  (10:18 AM)

keep in mind that michael young has five straight 200-hit seasons ... that's not too shabby. jeter will be the starter though for the all-star game

Lee(FL)

WHat is all this nonsense about the red sox age? Let me check real quick-Dustin,Ellsbury,Drew,3/4 of their pitching,and Jed in AAA are young, the only questionable "age" is Lowell and Lugo. Ortiz and Manny last time I checked can still hit. Let's calm down.

Amy Nelson

  (10:18 AM)

ortiz and manny aren't spring chickens, neither is varitek or wakefield ...

Carl Crawford (Tampa)

It sounds like Kev from NYC is scared of us

Amy Nelson

  (10:18 AM)

sounds like it carl

lee(FL)

Jeff-Look for Jed Lowrie coming up from Boston's AAA system, that kid can ball, just waiting on Lugo's ridiculous contract.

DJ (ST. Louis Mo.)

What's more suprising, the play of the Rays/Cardinals or the play of the Mets/Yankees????

Brian (Sandusky, Ohio)

The clippers are going to be a Real Title Contender ( did i just say that?!?!?!?!). Making the western conf harder than it already is. Brand Davis Kaman Mobley Gordon and a Health Livingston they will be pretty good.

alan (fayetteville,nc)

Every year at this time,people start worrying that the Yankees wont be making the playoffs,and then they go spend more money and make the playoffs. So Amy, who is gonna try to match them this year...CUBS maybe or red sox as usual?

Matt (TTU Lubbock, TX )

I got dumped by my girlfriend last night, Skip!! Make me feel better by having the best insight, rational thinking, and witty remarks as usual!!!

Amy Nelson

  (10:24 AM)

Matt, Skip said he'll have plenty of witty insight when he discusses Arod and Madonna next segemnt...

Paul (Indianapolis, IN)

AROD does need to miss the home run derby and focus on getting the Yanks to the post season and finally earning a place as a true Yankee.

Dennis (Chicago)

Now that the White Sox are three games back of the best record in baseball, will all the doubters realize a subway series is very possible in the windy city?

Amy Nelson

  (10:25 AM)

i think it'd be great, though cold

Jeremey(Louisville, KY.)

Amy. Buehrle has stepped it up for us, now do you believe in my whitesox?

Amy Nelson

  (10:25 AM)

i never doubted them...

Toney (Boston)

If the Rays make the Red Sox and Yankees mad enough. The Red Sox and Yankees will focus on getting the Rays out of the picture by August. Then the attention will be off the Rays and back on the Rivalery

Amy Nelson

  (10:26 AM)

i'm not so sure about that...

Franky (Chicago)

Ohh man, poor guy! LOL!!! Hook him up Skip! Hook..... him up! LOL!!!!

beau (louisiana)

dan uggla deserves a spot on the alstar team

Amy Nelson

  (10:26 AM)

beau absolutely ... hanley ramirerez should be the starter at ss

Michael (Atlanta, GA)

The clippers are in a great position right now with the baron davis signing. Now they re-sign Elton Brand and sign-and-trade Corey Maggette to bolster the bench. If Clippers management plays their cards right they could come out great!!

Scott (Reno)

If the Rays have a shot at the World Series, they'll do the same thing they did in 94 when the Expos would have won.

Amy Nelson

  (10:27 AM)

nice, conspiracy scott. too bad we're not in a CBA year, though.

Giovanni (Boston, MA)

I'm just picturing the Rays in the World Series this year ... and seeing that lousy stadium, and there will be a fly ball that hits the catwalk and you won't hear the end of it if it costs a team a game in the World Series. Is Tampa Bay working on a new stadium, do you know, Amy?

Amy Nelson

  (10:28 AM)

it's a complicated mess right now, havent checked in on it recently but i know they were hoping to get a proposal by novmeber, not sure if that's still on the docket.

Trevor (Clearwater, FL)

Lets look at the last few World Series Champions. What did they have, good pitching, good defense and timely hitting. I also believe most of them had fairly young teams, except the nasty sox who had a decent mix of young and old, very similiar to the Rays this year. I definitely believe the Rays have what it takes to get there this year! Go Rays!!

Chris (tyngsboro, ma)

The rays will take the al east with the yanks finishing with the wild card and will get a decent starter at the dead line and amy your my favorite female espn broadcaster

Amy Nelson

  (10:28 AM)

chris, thanks so that means you think the sox are otu of it?

Steven (Jacksonville, FL)

Sure the rays are winning now, but once the Red Sox pitching gets healthy again and David Ortiz comes back, they wont be able to handle the pressure.

Amy Nelson

  (10:29 AM)

like i've said, to me, the number 1 question.

beau (louisiana)

everyone vote for Dan Uggla!

Eric (Colgate, WI)

I think it would be great if all the high payrole teams lose to the them so its a smaller market teams to show talent and good team unity wins over money.

Dwight(Harrisonburg, VA)

It just might be the year the Cubs win it all. They're more than due. I'm a White Sox fan so it would cool to see them win, as long as it is not against us.

Chris (Antioch, CA)

I think the Clippers need to do a lot more than add Baron Davis in order to become title contenders. Davis and Brand will be great together, but they need a better supporting cast. They can't do it alone, especially in the juggernaut that is the Western Conference. I agree with Skip that even with Davis and Brand, they're still behind the playoff bar. That's just how competitive the West is right now.

Brad (Baltimore, MD)

The Rays are not going anyway and it's not good as I am an Orioles fan.

Joe (Dallas, TX)

Clippers have no shot to make the playoffs because portland and golden state will take the final spots. dallas will be better without avery and rookie shan foster.

Adam (syracuse,ny)

Also, the Yanks were far and away the best team that year. they were on a record pace for wins that year

J Orlando

The Rays are a great feel good story team this year, but in all honest truth, can they really stay ahead of the Red Sox in August?

CT (San Ramon, CA)

If the Clippers remain injury free next year, they will be a better overall team than their fellow LA team. Skip and Rob are just wearing hater goggles.

Armando (Indy)

I'm sooooooo sick of baseball...but maybe my attitude would change if we could ever land our own major league team here in Indy. Until then wake me up when the football season begins.

Amy Nelson

  (10:31 AM)

sorry armando ... must not be cool to live in a part of the country where there's no baseball. i can't even imagine...

Brian (Philly)

A vote for Dan Uggla takes away a vote for perhaps the best 2nd baseman of all time, Chase Utley.

Amy Nelson

  (10:31 AM)

utley wont have problems with votes

jd ( detriot,michigan )

what about the tigers?

Amy Nelson

  (10:32 AM)

intruiging team, though i still don't think they're a playoff one. but if they keep on clicking ... key is pitching, obviously.

Trevor (Clearwater, FL)

The Rays just dropped their proposal for this year. they are going to get a little better organized and find a way to get more money without charging the residents more tax money. Looks better in the long wrong for the Rays if they wait a little bit.

Amy Nelson

  (10:32 AM)

thanks, that's what i thought but wasn;t sure.

bradley (atl, ga)

the feel good team of the year is the hawks taking the celtics to 7 games unlike the lakers or pistons.

Amy Nelson

  (10:33 AM)

you've got issues

alan (fayetteville,nc)

heyyyyy,nc here, we share our nfl franchise with another state, have a hockey team that won a stanley cup nobody knows about, and no baseball

Peyton Manning (Filming a commercial somewhere)

Don't worry Armando. We're going all the way again this year

Amy Nelson

  (10:34 AM)

that's all you do, peyton, isn't it?

Brian (Philly)

Didn't Atlanta lose by 40 in game 7?

steve (new brunswick, NJ)

amy, who is your AL / NL rookie of the year so far?? is joba even in the conversation?

Amy Nelson

  (10:34 AM)

no off top of my head ... soto and longoria.

Adam (syracuse,ny)

i don't think the hawks make ANYONE feel good

Monty(DC)

Baron Davis not going to Cleveland is one more reason for LeBron to leave. The organization is failing to get stars next to LeBron.

Monty (DC)

Baron Davis to the Clippers puts the Clippers on top of the West. A line up with him Eric Gordon, Al Thornton, Elton Brand, and Chris Kaman gives them the most solid line up in the NBA. The bench also has Mobley and Tim Thomas to keep them alive. Similar situation in Boston of last year.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Give bradley a break. The Braves are regressing and Bobby Cox got an unwarranted contract extension. The Hawks are the only thing he has going besides Coke Zero.

Amy Nelson

  (10:36 AM)

he hates baseball so the braves are irrevelant in his world.

jose (Redding, CA)

Amy, do you think my cubs will be there in october?

Amy Nelson

  (10:36 AM)

yes definitely.

Lee(FL)

This small market junk is ridiculous. The reason teams like the Red Sox and Cubs have money to spend is because PEOPLE FOLLOW THE TEAM EVERY YEAR, not just when they are relevant. See it in south florida, its a HUGE market but no one comes because they could care less.

Matt The Clevelander

Amy, living in a city without baseball is better than living in a city without the NFL. I feel bad for those cities, like LA.

Brian (Baltimore)

Cuttino is going to start ahead of Gordon in LAC

Paul Pierce (Titletown)

Atlanta who?

Matt B. (Peekskill, NY)

The Clippers have a supporting cast. Kaman emerged as one of the better centers, Al Thorton has the makings of a prolific scorer, Eric Gordon and raw Deandre Jordan, and recovered Shaun Livingston is a great supporting cast for a dominant PG and PF. Health permitting they'll be one of the top 5 teams in the west. The Blazers are winning at least 4 of the next 10 championships though.

CT (San Ramon, CA)

Talk about cougars. Madonna has officially turned into the female version of Larry King.

Amy Nelson

  (10:38 AM)

rouch!

Toney (Boston)

I must say, it is about time that the Rays have a decent team. Every year I hear how good their farm system is and how many young players they have that can be good. And they finally seem to be showing that.

Amy Nelson

  (10:39 AM)

and a good job to andrew friedman and baseball ops to make those key signings and trades.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Someone got the idea that Florida was a baseball area because Spring Training games draw so well. People forgot the main point that everyone would rather spend time in 80 degree temperaturs in February instead of sub-freezing snowy ones.

Bobby (New York, New York)

why is everybody counting the yankees out. even though they are 7.5 games back, thats way better than last year when we came back against the Red Sox,a world series winning team, why cant we do it a less expierenced Tampa team.

Amy Nelson

  (10:39 AM)

i dont know if the yankees are being counted out, but there are a lot of questions .

Brian (Sandusky, Ohio)

Did Modonna get some advice from Jessica Simpson or something? Look out, here comes the big slump for Arod!

JB (TX)

I mean come on, it's Madonna! I know it's not exactly and exclusive club, but if she called me I'd call her back.

Amy Nelson

  (10:41 AM)

um, yes. what we do know if that they're "friends" according to her rep.

Lee(FL)

Definately got to give props to Friedman, reminds me of Theo, he's done wonders for that team since taking over.

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

Bobby Cox got an "unwarranted extension"? What? The dude won 14 Division titles in a row with 5 world series and one title. Bobby deserves to manage the Braves for as long as he wants. They would be in 1st place right now were it not for all of the injuries to their starters.

Victor Chicago IL

I like that the Clippers are trying to pull of a Celtics Turnaround season. But it will work? The Western conference looks amazing though they got the Lakers, Spurs, Hornets, Suns, Jazz, Nuggets, Warriors, Mavs, Rockets, Trailblazers, and Clippers. I think Billy Crystal is screaming out of his chair now with how Clippers look this season.

Scott (Reno)

People discount the Marlins, but people forget the Marlins still have there 3 BEST pitchers returning this year. If the Red Sox can use the injury argument, so can my Marlins.

Brandon (Iowa City, IA)

Why aren't people talking about the White Sox? They have a championship cailber tea over there on the South Side....hitting, defense, starting pitching, and the best bullpen in all of baseball. The only department they are lacking in is speed.

Amy Nelson

  (10:42 AM)

i think people have been talking about them ... just not on the level of the red sox yankees or rays...

Jake (Syracuse)

Aaron Rodgers should just keep his mouth shut and try and win the job. He better watch out for Brian Brohm taking his job in the preseason.

Greg (Tampa, FL)

Whether you believe in the Rays or not, how could you not help to route for them outside of the AL East? I'm so sick of Red Sox-Yankees year after year. No, they've never been through a pennant run before, so only time will tell how this all plays out. But please at least give them some credit for doing this with a team payroll that's less than A-Rod!

Chris (East Lansing)

Amy, what's your take on sports reporting covering social issues, like the Madonna, like the Jessica. Isn't it play ball?

Amy Nelson

  (10:44 AM)

i think the place for it (if there is one) is in gossip rags. i think journalists having to ask arod for comment about madonna is ridiculous. btu that's the culture of celebrity we live in...funny how athletes have gotten more protective with their access but their personal lives seem to be on center stage more than ever before...

Toney (Boston)

IF the Rays make the playoffs. I wonder if there will still be free parking

Johnstone (Wrigleyville)

How do you think OJ Mayo will deal with his pay cut having to leave USC?

Giovanni (Boston, MA)

All I have to say is that Atlanta + Professional Sports = Yawn

Amy Nelson

  (10:44 AM)

uh oh ... i know alonzo bradley and michael will have something to say about that

Ron (Chicago)

I agree with Dana. They should keep ppls person business out of certain media segments. These ppl do have young children. I think thats crazy!

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Alonzo: The Braves have played sub-.500 baseball since Opening Day, 2006. When players begin to fail in their skills, fans want them either traded or retired. Bobby now fits into that category. I'm a Braves fan too and can't stomach how he's run the team these past several years. No WS ring since 1995. He should be bumped upstairs.

brian (FL)

amy, what do you think about a rays vs. cubs world series

Amy Nelson

  (10:46 AM)

awesome. totally awesome. it's what i'm rooting for.

CT (San Ramon, CA)

I knew Aaron received a somewhat liberal education at Cal but his latest comment was simply insane. Brett Favre anyone?

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

The Braves lost 23 one-run games on the road. Even with injuries you have to win a few of those.

bradley (atl, ga)

Giovanni, yes Boston has been doing well the past couple of years, but I guarantee that will change this year. And then they'll be back to their futile selves.

Giovanni (Boston, MA)

Maybe they will disagree Amy, but it's simple mathematics. You can't say you think Atlanta is a hot topic of any professional sports. The last big deal in Atlanta was the 1996 Summer Olympics.

Lee(FL)

Greg- we are buddy we are. No I don't want to route for them, because as a born and bred boston-area kid, obviousley my team is the sox. But no one is saying this team isn't good, Friedman has done wonders, reminds me of theo, and this team looks great for the long haul, they just wont make it past the sox in october.

Brian (Baltimore)

How does losing Maggette, having no bench and signing Baron Davis make anyone think of the Celtics? They signed two periennial ALL-Stars to join another All-Star.

Tyler (Tucson, AZ)

Nobody would give the Cubs credit for breaking the curse if they beat the Rays.

Amy Nelson

  (10:47 AM)

um, i dont think so. i think it's sort of ridiculous that people can't give the rays credit. they're a legitimate team.

Giovanni (Boston, MA)

You've lost your mind Amy. How could you root for Rays - Cubs when you can easily have Red Sox - Cubs?

Amy Nelson

  (10:48 AM)

that would be great, but i'd love a warm weather city. plus, the rays are so much more fun to cover than the red sox...after all, it's all about the sportswriters, right?

bradley (atl, ga)

mike vick wasnt a big deal? atlanta going to the super bowl with jam anderson wasnt a big deal?

Amy Nelson

  (10:48 AM)

ease up bradley...

Armando (Indy)

Although he's married, A-Rod could probably still have his pick of any woman in the country....and he allegedly settles for a 50 yr old?(that's been with Dennis Rodman no less)

Amy Nelson

  (10:49 AM)

um, what guy wouldn't want to have at it with madonna? (alledegly of course)

Brian (Tampa)

Amy. If the Rays are still in the hunt come September, do you really think David Price can be a key contributor as has been mentioned?

Amy Nelson

  (10:49 AM)

yes, but out of the pen. they have to be careful with his innings. he'll be up, barring an injury.

Scott (Reno)

Cubs are going to flounder like always. D-Backs vs Rays will be the WS.

Ron (Chicago)

Who cares who the Cubs beat!? The title world series champ makes whomever they beat totally irrelevant.

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

Why is everybody hating on the ATL today?

Amy Nelson

  (10:53 AM)

btw, aaron rodgers said "I don't need to sell myself to the fans...they need to get on board now or keep their mouths shut."

Toney (Boston)

Tyler, I don't think it matters if the Cubs win against the Rays. If the Cubs win. It wont matter to them or their fans who they beat. As long as they finally won.

mason (austin)

i would bet a lot of money that the cubs don't even make the world series

Tyler (Tucson, AZ)

I'm definitely with Scott. D-Backs are slumping now, but if they can make the playoffs (from a terrible division) they have a great one-two punch with Webb and Haren.

J Orlando

Amy, the Rays are a good solid team that will when the wild card, not their division.

Brian (Philly)

D-Backs vs. Rays would answer a great question. Can you play a World Series and have no one watch it?

Amy Nelson

  (10:54 AM)

bud selig wuold not be happy

Brandon (Chicago)

Amy, read one of my comments on the air.....

Amy Nelson

  (10:54 AM)

say something smart

Ron (Chicago)

Because as of today Atl is a sports black hole!

Giovanni (Boston, MA)

Alonzo, I love ATL music (112, Jagged Edge, Ludacris, etc.) but sports just doesn't do it for me. My bad!

Trevor (colorado)

D backs??? o you mean next year right? they cant even beat the rockies right now and thats not that hard this year

Tyler (Tucson, AZ)

Nobody would watch D-Backs Rays, though. D-Backs barely sold out their playoff games last year.

Amy Nelson

  (10:55 AM)

yeah it was embarassing...

Mike M. (Freeport, NY)

I cannot believe that sports has gone down to coverage on the speculation on athlete's "alleged" off the field activities. Madonna's waayyyy past her prime, and to attempt to revive or validate her existence by discussing her and A-Rod as a topic? Ridiculous. Perhaps we need to extend the NBA season to 100 games to give us more sports to cover and less downtime for such nonsense.

beau (louisiana)

how come everyone is talking about the rays but not the marlins

Amy Nelson

  (10:56 AM)

beau seriously you've written that 20 times ...

mason (austin)

marlins vs rays would be the greatest world series ever

DJ Schrum ( St. Louis MO. )

I'm just curious if you are more suprised by the play of the Cardinals/Rays or the Mets/Yankees?? I just think it's amazing what attitude can do for a team. I mean the Cards and the Rays are full of no-names and flat out getting it done, meanwhile the 2 of the top 3 payroll teams just can't get over the hump and appear to have morale issues.

Amy Nelson

  (10:58 AM)

i wouldn't say that Pujols is a no-name ... but more surprised by the cardinals. i thought the rays had a decent chance to be pretty good...not surprised by either mets or yankees all that much

Brendan (Boston)

Geographically close cities in a championship is not good. No one cared about the Subway Series outside of New York. Just don't tell anyone from NYC that.

Johnstone (Wrigleyville)

An "L Series" between the Cubbies and the White Sox would be the win.

Mike South Portland,Maine

Amy if the celtics got maggetie and if they were able to re-sign Posey don't you think that they woild repeat and become one the greatest teams in NBA history?

Amy Nelson

  (10:59 AM)

one of greatest teams in NBA history is quite a leap

Ron (Chicago)

The Marlins have had plenty of good press already. This is the rays' time.

Mason (Austin, Texas)

mets/yankees both of these teams should be contending for 1st place and they are'nt

Isaac (worcester, ma)

if David Ortiz comes back healthy and the red sox keep the games as tight as they have been lately the red sox will pass the rays and take the division

Amy Nelson

  (11:00 AM)

very possible, obviously

Giovanni (Boston, MA)

I don't know if you remember Amy, but a few weeks ago I brought up the point that baseball is really moving to a youthful game -- tons of great young talent -- and I think the Rays are just proving that the younger players are starting to take over the league, in general.

Amy Nelson

  (11:01 AM)

yes do any of you have problems with the length of baseball games? apparantly joe buck said it's hard for him to watch it these days because its so slow

Jake (Syracuse)

The Mets are 3 1/2 games back from 1st, but there not contending Mason? Look at the paper next ime.

Brian (Baltimore)

The NBA is too watered down at this point to have any best team ever claims. The 85-86 Celtics were the best team ever btw

Brian (Sandusky, Ohio)

Can you wish Crawford a Happy 4th of JAY-LY from his hometown boys at Perkins Fire Department?????

Lee(FL)

Marlinvs vs. rays would make selig have a heart attack. And put the nation to sleep.......

Albert (KC)

Tigers vs Cubs would be a great WS

Mason (Austin, Texas)

i don't think so. the rays play better defense and have a overall stronger pitching staff. i pick the rays to take the A.L. East

Adam (syracuse,ny)

the difference between last season and this season is the Yanks didn't lose Wang for the season and Hughes/Kennedy actually contributed...both are currently doing just as well on the DL as they were even before they went on the DL

Derek (Salt Lake City)

Aaron Rodgers needs to talk with a football, not with his mouth--so Aaron, take your own advice and SHUT UP!

bradley (atl, ga)

Brian, that is not even close to being true. Your larry legends celtics only won 3 titles. the lakers won 5 during the same stretch. and bill russell won 11 rings alone. I'm pretty sure he didnt play with the 85 celts

Joe (Billings, MT)

Isaac, when Ortiz comes back, make sure to fill out a missing person's report for JD's offense because it will be gone again.

Brendan (Boston)

The Mets are a sub-.500 team with a negative run-differential... I wouldn't be holding out hope of them winning anything this season

Efrain (Bayonne NJ)

I would love to witness a Rays Marlins world series just to see the turnout.

Amy Nelson

  (11:04 AM)

i'd love teh weather ... and you know what? if they showed up in 03 (albeit against the Yankees) then why wouldn't they show up this year. then again, maybe not.

Andrew (salem, or)

its not the length of baseball games its that i just cant get into it with all the starting and stopping with something more interesting going on on a different espn channel.

Mike (Brooklyn)

Beckett + Matsuzaka + Buchholz + Lester + Wakefield looks stronger than TB's to me.

Amy Nelson

  (11:05 AM)

tampa's rotation is pretty darm good right now...

Brian (Brandon, FL)

As a life long Mets fan living in Tampa, who's already routed for the Rays otherwise. this is just a great story. A lot more fun to watch then my Mets right now!

Giovanni (Boston, MA)

And, Amy, Joe Buck broadcasts National League games regularly. Imagine if he covered the AL? He'd go mad!

Matt The Clevelander

Amy, I'm ready for the NFL season! The Tribe has gotten so pathetic that I'm done with them for '08.

Amy Nelson

  (11:07 AM)

they should be in sell mode...

Amy Nelson

  (11:08 AM)

well al harris is in our studio right now and he didn't know how to respond to rodgers' comments

Amy Nelson

  (11:08 AM)

he looked a little stunned that rodgers had said that, it was his first time hearing it...

bradley (atl, ga)

How old was Al Harris when he had the co starring role in the Predator?

Mike (Brooklyn)

Rays' staff is good, not better than Boston's though, especially when Buchholz gets called up back for Masterson.

brian (FL)

Amy, will the rays need to add a reliever

Amy Nelson

  (11:09 AM)

david price ... maybe a starter or an OF bat

Jeremey(Louisville, KY.)

You have to be a true baseball fan to sit back and watch the games, but there is nothing like watching nine innings of baseball.

Christopher (San Antonio)

That is one of the great things about baseball, is the lack of time limit. A team struggling through an inning isn't saved by a timer/clock. Get the third out!

Kev (NYC)

Cleveland fans have already given up on their team less than 9 months since they were 1 win from the WS? Please take note of this everyone...

Ron (Chicago)

CC to the Cubs, Amy!

Amy Nelson

  (11:10 AM)

i'm sure CC would love that

Ron (Chicago)

If Aaron Rodgers doesn't play well, that thin skin of his really won't help him.

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

Don't hate on Atlanta. It is a great, diverse city with lots of opportunities. The sports teams are not always competitive but they always compete. As an avid Braves fan who endured a lifetime of losing before 1991 I will never hate on the Braves for struggling the last couple of years.

Ron (Chicago)

He cant respond, Amy. He has Aaron's foot in his mouth!

Amy Nelson

  (11:10 AM)

he truly looked surprised and didnt know what to stay

Brian (Sandusky, Ohio)

CC and LeBron will both be in NY before too long!

Adam (syracuse,ny)

Baseball is like fishing...you really have to love just sitting there, enjoying the weather

Kev (NYC)

CC to the Cubs and then sign D Wells + Big Z for the most overweight rotation in MLB history.

Mason (Austin, Texas)

cleveland should have never let my man kenny lofton go

Amy Nelson

  (11:12 AM)

hes still looking for a job

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

I am not bothered by the length of baseball games. I love the strategy involved and extra inning baseball is so intense.

Amy Nelson

  (11:13 AM)

does anyone have any sympathy for rodgers? he already retracted the comments

Lee(FL)

message to Aaron Rodgers- Don't insult the fans that support you, especially after their ledgend leaves. Not a good start-genius.

Jeremey(Louisville, KY.)

Rodgers better produce this year or they will be calling for his head.

Brian (Sandusky, Ohio)

Rogers is in a losing situation, unless he wins right away!

Kev (NYC)

Can we let A Rodgers play a game 1st? All this talk about replacing a legend and how much he's going to struggle. Give it time, give him a season, GB's not making the playoffs wither way

Rev (Grand Rapids, MI)

As a long time Packer Fan - My thoughts are: Packers will be fine without Brett. Aaron ran the offense so much better last preseason. He's more mobile and takes what is open. He doesn't force. But can he stay healthy. Love Brett, but he's retired....time to move on. It's Aaron time.

Mason (Austin, Texas)

how many R.B.I.'s will Josh Hamilton have at the end of the season?

Amy Nelson

  (11:15 AM)

5,000,001

Brian (Los Angeles)

The Rays have been pretty much gotten zero press for their entire existence. The minute they get some attention, the Red Sox-Yankees fans are the first to cry that the Rays are a fluke. That may well be, but please give them some credit for what they've done so far. Would it kill them to not have the spotlight focused on them all the time? Apparently, it would!

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

I have sympathy for people that have unfortunate things happen to them that they simply cannot control. Last I checked, sticking one's foot in one's mouth is not one of those things. No sympathy for me and may my Vikings introduce him to the turf several times this year.

Brian (Baltimore)

sympathy? sympathy? there's no sympathy in football

Christopher (San Antonio)

5,000,001 would be 2 RBI's short of Bonds in 03. How does that make you feel Josh?

Trevor (colorado)

he may have the biggest shoes to fill in the world. pour choice of words for a young man but hes right, im the QB, not #4, get behind me!

alan (fayetteville,nc)

Amy , im gonna take the undr on that

Corey (Iowa City)

I have no sympathy for Aaron Rodgers. He acts like he was just given the starting nod in Green Bay, when in fact Brian Brohm is probably going to be a better QB in a few years and he will be gone sooner than later because he doesn't respect the fans in Titletown

Johnstone (Wrigleyville)

They are Packer fans, they need to be insulted.

Efrain (Bayonne NJ)

When football is the only thing in GB, the players had better be careful about what they say

Amy Nelson

  (11:17 AM)

exactly

alan (fayetteville,nc)

heck yeah, he has to follow BRETT FAVRE.... BRETT frickin FAVRE, thats hard enough. He has had to hear about following favrre for a couple of years ,now he actually has to play!

Dwight(Harrisonburg, VA)

Rodgers sounds like a young Brett Favre. After learning from the mentor for a period of time, wouldn't his attitude rub off on him a bit?

Mason (Austin, Texas)

why is'nt dan uggla in the all-star game? he's been the best player on the marlins this year.

Amy Nelson

  (11:19 AM)

he will be .. just not the starter. chase utley will be

Ron (Chicago)

He just needs to shut up and play well. Fans are bandwagon jumpers. No one will care if the Packers win. Attitude doesn't make a winner. Performance does.

Corey (Iowa City)

I think the length of baseball games are just right. If it happens to run a little over 3 hours, it usually means it's a close game with some offense involved and usually will have an exciting ending. Joe Buck should just relax. If he hates that baseball games are so long, he should stop broadcasting Cardinals games and just stick to the NFL. Then at least the games get over in 3 hours and he can get back to his scotch and soda. Baseball will not miss him one bit.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Amy: I love baseball but as someone who works part time for a minor league team, I do not like the length of games these days. Not sure how to speed it up but a good start would be less time between innings. How many pitches does a guy really need to throw after his initial warmups and once the game starts? With these pitchers being watched so closely on pitch count, wouldn't they want to see them throwing less meaningless pitches?

Brian (Sandusky, Ohio)

The only person that can get away with saying what Aaron Rogers did, is Brett Favre!

Ron (Chicago)

Aaron Rodgers does have to sell himself to the fans by playing well. If he doesnt, he wont have to worry about selling anything to anybody. If he cant take it he should retire like Brett did.

Aaron Rodgers (Wisconsin)

I'm sorry people. I really am. Now please excuse me. I have to get ready for our 7-9 season this year

Brian (Sandusky, Ohio)

If I get arrested even once, I would be "fired" from The Fire Department!

Adam (syracuse,ny)

Owners and GM's won't admit it, but fans do carry some clout. When Rodgers comes out of the gate like Rex Grossman, he's gonna get booed and cheesehead nation will be calling for him to get benched, traded or both.

Rev (Grand Rapids, MI)

Why don't the Brewers get any love? They have actually been gaining on the cubs and cards. They NEVER won a World Series.....cubs can wait another 100 years. Vote for Ryan Braun to be in the All Star Game. Today is the last day to Vote.

Amy Nelson

  (11:21 AM)

they need another starter ...

Giovanni (Boston, MA)

But honestly Amy, what is going to speed up games significantly? I sit here and watch Manny Ramirez look into the clouds between pitches, David Ortiz with his spitting, slapping his hands together routine, and a Youkilis, who takes two swings between pitches. How do you take those out of the game?

Amy Nelson

  (11:21 AM)

i dont know if you do

Dave (STL)

Should Ryan Ludwick Have made it into the all-star game?

Amy Nelson

  (11:21 AM)

absolutely

Mason (Austin, Texas)

more like 5-11 aaron

Brian Brohm (Green Bay, WI)

Thanks Aaron!

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

Long baseball games are great. You often get more than what you paid for which is always great.

Amy Nelson

  (11:22 AM)

alonzo, you are a rare breed, from a different generation. i wish more people could be like that, but it just isn't that way anymore..for most people.

Brett Favre (Home)

Don't worry Aaron, GB will be calling me any day now!

Mason (Austin, Texas)

if you truly enjoy baseball you are'nt thinking about what you are doing after the game

Dave (STL)

Is The All-Star game just a popularity contest?

Amy Nelson

  (11:24 AM)

yup

Adam (syracuse,ny)

the only real way to speed up the games is to make it 2 strikes you're out and 3 balls you walk. There's too much of a premium placed on being patient at the plate. More and more hitters are going up to see as many pitches as possible for his and his teammates benefit. Or we just need a whole lot more of chuck knoblauch's and robeto kelly's who swing at the first pitch no matter where it is.

zack (gainesville)

Do you think the home run derby really messes with a hitters swing like A-Rod claims?

Amy Nelson

  (11:28 AM)

i think it can, but i think he should be there. and he should be in it.

dw- mesa,az

the cubs a little banged up right now, but we still need another starting pitcher to take it all the way and tell jay crawford i said O-H!!!...

Joe (Billings, MT)

Don't you think homer fans should be ashamed of themselves voting for guys that shouldn't be in the ASG? Fukudome doesn't deserve to be there unless he has a ticket.

Amy Nelson

  (11:28 AM)

yes a little...

dw, mesa az

fukudome has done things for the cubs that people dont realize, he has brought a new attitude to the team and more then deserves to be an allstar

Darnell (Bmore)

Women should not be allowed to discuss sports

Amy Nelson

  (11:31 AM)

good call.

Gabriel (Miami, FL)

I hate to say it but yes I'm a baseball fan but I have to agree with Buck each baseball game is WAY to long and with very slow gameplay

Christopher (San Antonio)

The seeing of pitches does two things. First, you and your teammates get to see the types and movements of the pitches. Second, and I think is the most important is that the more pitches a pitcher is forced to make in an inning, the more likely of him making a mistake pitch.

Matt (College Park)

2 strikes/3 balls is an awful idea. 2-1 is a horrible full count and batting averages would drop below .200's. Games would end up going into extras or we'd see a lot of 1-0 games.

Brian (Baltimore)

A-Rod just doesn't want to face the pressure at home, same reason he folds every Oct.

Scott (Reno)

The problem with long-baseball games are the early games. Those are horrible. Should make them all night games. Went to the Marlins-Giants doubleheader in Miami earlier this year, and the weather was torture.

zack (gainesville)

in your dreams..arod has the most pure swing in baseball and has as much power as David Ortiz..like he sais, "de hoesnt want to mess up his swing for the season."

Joe (Billings, MT)

DW, are you serious?!? Fukudome is a nice player, but All-Star he is not. Braun or Carlos Lee should be starting, possibly Bay or Hart. Any other nominations?

Amy Nelson

  (11:34 AM)

you know ludwick's numbers are pretty good ... lee is having an underrated year but should be starting

Mason (Austin, Tx)

my rangers have a serious chance of taking the west.

Ron (Chicago)

Home run derby is batting practice. I honestly believe that it is an excuse to say that it messes up your swing before, during or after the derby. I thought they are supposed to be professionals?

Amy Nelson

  (11:35 AM)

it's nto the same as BP...these guys are swining for fences, when in bp guys are working onbunting, spraying to all fields, etc

Mason (Austin, Tx)

el caballo!

Adam (syracuse,ny)

all this being said Amy, I love watching baseball, no matter how long it takes.

Tom (Chicago)

You want to speed up baseball? Limit the number of foul balls for the 3rd strike, and stop throwing the ball around the horn.

Giovanni (Boston, MA)

When I was younger, the MLB All-Star Game was truly a spectacle. You would see the greatest players from all around the league. In recent years, you have a split squad of Yankees and Red Sox on the AL team, and then some super stars, who owe the fans to be there, refuse to go. No player is above the game. Too many to appreciate the history and only think about themselves.

Nancy, Oklahoma

All baseball games are on TV and that means advertising. How many minutes of the "game time" are devoted to advertising?

Amy Nelson

  (11:36 AM)

good point nancy didn't think of that but i woukd think that has to factor into it

Mason (Austin, Tx)

plus in bp the world is'nt watching you

Amy Nelson

  (11:36 AM)

correct, making them even more liekly to swing for the fences (which is the point)

Brian (Baltimore)

There should be more double-headers, teams used to have 2 or 3 scheduled each year. Growing up outside of Pittsburgh I remember going to see the Pirates of the late 70's only on dh days.

Jake (Syracuse)

Puda Vida Amy

Amy Nelson

  (11:37 AM)

todo tiempo

Brian (Sandusky, Ohio)

I think I am living a "Major League" Movie in Cleveland this year! Let's get wild thing and Willie May Hayes!

Giovanni (Boston, MA)

And, really, there needs to be an alternate way of determining home field for the World Series. How about, I don't know, BEST OVERALL RECORD?

Amy Nelson

  (11:38 AM)

i was tlkaing to michael young about that yesterday and he thinks it's a little ridiculous for the all-stargame to decide home field advantage

Adam (syracuse,ny)

NFL games go over 3 hours and no one whines about how long those games are

chris (atlanta, ga)

They should take all-star voting away from the fans. They get it wrong too many times. It should be the players and managers picking all the all-stars

Amy Nelson

  (11:39 AM)

TOTALLY agree, will n ever happen,. MLB wants its fans to feel a part of the process. but it's getting ridiculous with so many yankees and red sox as starters

Theresa (Ohio)

If baseball is too long of a game then what about football and basketball? I don't know if you have a problem with how long the game is then I think you're not a true fan of the sport.

Dwight(Harrisonburg, VA)

A long baseball game is great if you're at the stadium and in the middle of it all. It amazes me that people can watch a three-hour game on television with no problem but whine about a two-and a half hour soccer match on television.

Monty (DC)

Baseball is like watching paint dry. The players take too long to get ready to bat and the pitchers take too long on deciding what pitch to throw. The fastest part of the game is the players leaving the field after the game. And people say soccer and hockey is boring?

Greg (Stratford, WI)

I have no problems with the length of baseball games. I watch the games whenever I have time and not just the Brewers' games. I will stay up late most nights to watch the west coast games. I have no problems staying awake because baseball is a great game.

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

I am so looking forward to the day that I can take my son (he's 3 now) to a Braves game, sit in the stands, have a conversation with him, explain the game, the history, the strategy, fill out a scorecard etc. You just don't get that with any other sport. Baseball creates bonds besides ones named Barry.

bradley (atl, ga)

In football there is actually more than 10 mins of excitement. People get hit and the scores usually arent 3-0.

Johnstone (Wrigleyville)

There are 16 NFL games a year compared to 162 baseball games. Thus the 3 hours becomes a little more significant.

Gabriel (Miami, FL)

They should just hand home-field advantage to the AL because come on in inter-leauge play the AL destoried the NL in most series

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

Longer games are usually the more competitive games which is always a good thing. Blow outs are shorter because everyone, including the players, are just trying to get the hell out of there.

Amy Nelson

  (11:42 AM)

or the 3-2 yankee game last nite that was a cool 3:23

Adam (syracuse,ny)

I agree that the All Star game doesn't include all the "best" players around the league. But the majority of people who can buy a ticket to the All Star game, they don't want to see a field full of Hanley Ramirez' They pay to see the STARS. As talented as Hanley is, Jeter, A-Rod, Manny, Ortiz, etc. are the stars.

Gabriel (Miami, FL)

It seems like people just vote for every single player on there favorite team to make the all-star game

Rob (Boston)

But Adam, don't you agree that players having tremendous seasons, like Milton Bradley, should be rewarded for their play?

Nancy, Oklahoma

The only reason to have the all star game is for the fans. It should NOT be a factor in who gets home team advantage in the World Series. A team should be able to control its destiny and letting such a game deside home team advantage is ridiculous!

Rev (GR)

Alonzo your son is lucky.

John (Saukville, WI)

I always hear people say the all-stars shouldn't be picked by the fans (skip bayless?). but thats the whole point of the game, for the fans to pick their favorite players. but big markets do have an advantage (i had to use up all of my votes just trying to get ryan braun in)

Corey (Iowa City)

Milton Bradley has been a questionable character the last few years, but this season he has legitamately played himself into the All Star Game with the numbers he has put up and has stayed relatively injury free

Scott (Reno)

Hanley is 10 times the star Jeter ever was, Jeter's washed up, Hanley is NOW.

Mason (Austin, Tx)

hey adam hanley ramirez is doing better than all of your stars

Mason (Austin, Tx)

ian kinsler should start over dustin pedroia.

Amy Nelson

  (11:50 AM)

he;s my starting 2b

Cristian (nyc)

A-Rod is still the best shortstop in Baseball.

Rob (Boston)

The only problem I have with the voting is that it shouldn't be done online, and only in the ballparks. Especially when it comes to foreign-born players. It seems kind of silly for players like Ichiro and Matsui to have an entire country voting for them.

Efrain (Bayonne NJ)

I disagree...I don't think the fans should be allowed to vote...if the MLB wants to get fans involved, they should consider a different way, because fan voting is clearly not working and turning off many people to the all star game.

Dave (Glenside, PA)

You get your moneys worth going to a 3 hour baseball game. I think I'm being cheated going to a 2 hr pro basketball game. The history and strategy of baseball are its attractions, true baseball lovers do not care about the length of time.

Amy Nelson

  (11:54 AM)

ok guys we're wrapping up the chat now. i'll be back next Wedneday. Have a great holiday weekend, whether its watching paint dry or actually enjoying a game.

Brian (Sandusky, Ohio)

Amy, pretty please tell jay Happy 4th of JAY-LY from his hometown friends at Perkins Fire Department! PLEASE? PLEASE?

Amy Nelson

  (11:54 AM)

i already posted it brian. have a good weekend.