ESPN

Buzzmaster

  (5:23 PM)

Baseball America's Jim Callis will be by to chat during tonight's ALCS Game 5! Join the chat starting at 8 p.m. ET!

Jim Callis

  (7:50 PM)

Hi, everyone. I have to run and pick up my daughter from orchestra, but I should be back right around first pitch. See you in a few minutes . . .

Jim Callis

  (8:06 PM)

OK, back now. Let's hope for a good game and some good questions . . .

Matt (Binghamton)

What instrument does your daughter play?

Jim Callis

  (8:09 PM)

My two daughters play violin (as does my wife), my two sons play cello (and my younger son also plays the baritone and the trombone). I'm the lone member of the family with zero musical talent.

Omar (Philly)

Who do you think will be the next best player out of the phillies farm system?

Jim Callis

  (8:10 PM)

I think it's going to be catcher Lou Marson, who's going to push for the starting job next year. I think the guy who may be the biggest star in the system is outfielder Zach Collier, a sandwich pick in June.

Josh (Vermont)

Was starting Kazmir a good decision over Shileds to pitch game 5?

Jim Callis

  (8:11 PM)

I don't like it. I understand that Shields is better in Tampa and Kazmir and the Game Six plate ump don't like each other, but I would have stayed with the rotation rather than changing things up. If Kazmir loses tonight, Shields will be pitching on seven days' rest, I believe. Who knows if that will throw him off?

Jim Callis

  (8:12 PM)

That said, while I think the Red Sox will win tonight, the Rays look better on paper in Games Six and Seven.

Jim Callis

  (8:12 PM)

And with B.J. Upton going deep again, it may not matter anyway.

Josh (Vermont)

Does rest even matter after 4-5 days, when the pitchers are still at a young age?

Jim Callis

  (8:14 PM)

I think anything out of a normal routine can affect a pitcher.

Bryan (New York)

What do you think about all the talk of the redsox coming back again and playing good when there down?

Jim Callis

  (8:14 PM)

It makes for good copy, but the 2008 Red Sox are different from the 2004 Red Sox and the 2007 Red Sox. Yes, some of these guys have been on teams that have made big comebacks, but that doesn't mean this edition will. With the way the Rays have hammered the Red Sox in the last three games, it's hard to envision Boston pulling off three straight wins.

Chris (Boston)

Should the Sox have added Buchholtz to their roster or is that just hindsight?

Jim Callis

  (8:15 PM)

No. He had no confidence by season's end and I wouldn't want him pitching in a playoff game this year for my club.

matt (Vermillion)

How much talent does B.J. Upton have?

Jim Callis

  (8:15 PM)

Almost unlimited. He has the ability to be as good as just about anyone in the game.

Jonah (New York City)

Will the Rays win tonight without shields?

Jim Callis

  (8:15 PM)

I'll be honest and say I was picking the Red Sox to win tonight, though they've quickly gone down 2-0.

Hiroki (Fukuoka, Japan)

C.Santana and M.Laporta ETA? Thanks.

Jim Callis

  (8:16 PM)

LaPorta 2009 and Santana 2010.

Matt (Miami)

The chat isn't showing up in the Gamecast. Any idea of what is going on?

Jim Callis

  (8:17 PM)

I don't know. I'll send out an SOS to ESPN.com. I'm not getting many questions either.

Emily (Boston)

Will Ortiz even get a single tonight?! I hope that wrist surgery goes well!

Jim Callis

  (8:19 PM)

He's obviously not at his best right now, plus he's pressing, a terrible combination.

Nick (poughkeepsie)

Do you think Dice-K is as good as his 18-3 record or did he get lucky? Can he cut down on his walks or would he get hit hard if he threw more strikes?

Jim Callis

  (8:20 PM)

Matsuzaka is baffling. It doesn't seem like he really challenges hitters until he has to, nibbling instead until a couple of runners get on. He has plenty of stuff and should be more aggressive.

Harrison (CT)

What chance to the Phillies have in the World Series? The only area in which they can even really compete with either the Rays or Red Sox is in the bullpen.

Jim Callis

  (8:20 PM)

Oh, anything can happen in a seven-game series. The Phillies are better than you give them credit for. The ALCS winner will be the favorite, but the Phillies will certainly have a chance to win.

matt (Vermillion)

You have been saying tampa bay in 2010 for a couple of years now, but did you even think they had a chance to be this good this soon?

Jim Callis

  (8:22 PM)

I picked the Rays to win it all in 2010 as part of Baseball America's 2007 major league preview (I annually look three years ahead). While I didn't think the Rays would be THIS good in 2008, I looked at my 2008 preview (written in 2005) and I had the Rays finishing second in the AL East and predicted the division would have four teams over .500.

Sam (Long Beach)

A side benefit to pitching Kazmir today is that, if this goes seven, he could come out of the bullpen. He fits the profile more than Shields does of someone who could utterly dominate two innings of relief. (See: All-star game, 2008)

Jim Callis

  (8:23 PM)

With the way Kazmir has pitched recently, and knowing that Game Seven only occurs if the Rays lose today (and he theoretically doesn't pitch well), I wouldn't trust him in relief with the game on the line.

Tim (Chicago)

Is Longoria the best young 3b in the game? Would you take him over Wright?

Jim Callis

  (8:24 PM)

He is, and I would. Though there's not much difference between the two.

Mo (Yorktown)

Is the chat active?

Jim Callis

  (8:24 PM)

We appear to be showing up in Gamecast now. Whew.

Rhett (Atlanta)

The Rays on the brink of making it to the World Series is mind boggling. Preseason, they were picked last by many people. For a team to finish last in the AL East and win it thee next year over the likes of the Red Sox and Yankees AND advance to the ALCS is amazing. Did you honestly think they could do this heading into the season last April?

Jim Callis

  (8:25 PM)

No, I honestly did not. Thought they had a chance to maybe finish .500 if all went well. They did a great job of upgrading their defense and bullpen, and also had some guys step up (such as Longoria).

Andy (Gorham, ME)

Glad you are live now. I'm watching Survivor, keep me posted on the game till 9! Thanks.

Jim Callis

  (8:26 PM)

As long as you don't ruin Survivor for me!

joe (tucson az)

no unless you were a tampa fan no one saw this coming and no one could have predicted evan longoria being this good

Jim Callis

  (8:26 PM)

I will disagree with that. A lot of people, including Baseball America, projected Longoria as a star.

Kevin (Portland)

When's the last time we've seen a story as exciting, unpredictabie and entertaining as the Rays this year?

Jim Callis

  (8:27 PM)

1969 Mets.

Anthony (denver -born boston)

redsox will win the series

Jim Callis

  (8:28 PM)

You're keeping the faith, apparently.

Matt (Miami)

Is Baseball America part of ESPN?

Jim Callis

  (8:28 PM)

We have a relationship with them but they don't own us. We're an independent entity.

Jim Callis

  (8:28 PM)

Scott Kazmir isn't exactly inspiring a lot of confidence here. You think he'd be more willing to throw strikes up by two runs.

Dan (San Diego)

Everyone has seen the talent buidling in Tampa for the last 4 years, I think they are just a year ahead of what a lot of people were expecting. I don't think they are surprising on account of the talent they have. Bullpen was the biggest difference this year

Jim Callis

  (8:29 PM)

And the defense. With their young talent (and more on the way), they're no fluke.

Damien (New York)

All these Rays fans and people thinking the Rays already won this had better hope they win this and if they don't they don't run into a dominant Beckett

Jim Callis

  (8:31 PM)

I'm not sure dominant Beckett exists this October.

Alex (Durango, CO)

Jim, what big time prospects do the Rays have that will be coming into the majors and making an impact within the next few years?

Jim Callis

  (8:32 PM)

LHP David Price, who won Game Two, could jump right into the rotation next year. SS Reid Brignac may push for a starting job, though Jason Bartlett plays nifty defense. RHP Wade Davis is also waiting in the wings.

Lindsey (Maine)

Who do you think will be catching for the Sox next year?

Jim Callis

  (8:33 PM)

No idea. With Scott Boras as his agent, I don't think Varitek is going to settle for a one-year deal, and I don't think the Red Sox are going to want to commit a lot of year or money given how much his bat has slowed down. I do think he'll manage the Red Sox one day if he's interested.

Scott (NY)

I want to say the rays are set up for the long term because they are so good and so young, but I believe i said that last year with the Rockies. What do you think sets the Rays up to survive while the Rockies acted like a on year wonder?

Jim Callis

  (8:33 PM)

I think the Rays are a more talented team, regardless of what happens the rest of this postseason.

Brian (Massachusetts)

Do you think Mike Lowell will comeback and be better than he was this year from surgery?

Jim Callis

  (8:34 PM)

He's getting pretty old, so that's no guarantee.

Bandwagoner (Tampa)

I know this might be far out there but do you think Kazmir got the start today because Maddon saw what type of game Dice-k pitched in game 1 (and since Shields has been pitching better) was planning to lose today so Shields could pitch in game 6 and have a shot at winning?

Jim Callis

  (8:34 PM)

I don't think any manager plans to lose a game, especially in the playoffs.

Mark (Lansing, MI)

Do you think, Jim, that at some point Boras clients will begin to lose value because of his reputation among ball club management?

Jim Callis

  (8:36 PM)

No. He represents a lot of star players and teams will pay for star value. Plus he's a shrewd negotiator, so he's likely to keep getting top dollar.

owen (wi)

ortiz is just killing the sox offensively. no productive outs, no nothing.

Jim Callis

  (8:36 PM)

Don't get me started on productive outs. The team with the most productive outs is typically the team with the most baserunners, so they're typically going to score the most runs anyway. I'm not a fan of one-run strategies when your team is down by two runs in the first inning.

mike (boston)

hey i just found out the score how did this all come about

Jim Callis

  (8:37 PM)

Upton hit a two-run HR in the first.

scott (Baton Rouge)

It seems that without Manny by his side, Big Papi just isn't as effective

Jim Callis

  (8:37 PM)

I don't buy that at all. Youkilis has had a very good year behind Ortiz, who hit well in August and September. I don't think he's 100 percent and he's pressing. Manny could be batting behind him and he'll still be struggling.

John (Kansas City)

Any thoughts on why Lester and Beckett were so erratic in Games 3-4? I thought they would really step up in the pressure games.

Jim Callis

  (8:38 PM)

Looks like Beckett (who pitched Game Two) isn't healthy and that Lester may have run out of gas.

Dan (Buffalo)

This is coming from a Boston fan, and although no fan likes to admit when his team is overmatched, I cannot believe how well Tampa has responded to all of the pressure on them this year. With Boston having some of the post season pitchers they have, for Tampa to jump out with the firepower they have after losing game one is unbelievable

Jim Callis

  (8:38 PM)

I agree. And with Boston jumping all over Kazmir in Game Two, as well. Would have been easy if they folded, but they didn't.

Terry (Atlanta)

Hey what channel is this on? It's not on ESPN or any of the basic networks...

Jim Callis

  (8:38 PM)

TBS.

Casey (PA)

Do you think Manny will "be Manny" in LA if he doesn't get the amount of money he wants?

Jim Callis

  (8:40 PM)

No. Manny will be Manny wherever he can get the most money. And once he gets that contract, he won't be the jovial, hustling Manny we saw in L.A. for two months.

John ((Mahwah, NJ))

Do you think that CC Sabathia will stay in the NL after all of his success or will he just go to whoever pays the most?

Jim Callis

  (8:42 PM)

Whoever pays the most.

ben (australia)

its only the second inning and dice k has thrown 43 pitches..how long will he last? Go Rays!!

Jim Callis

  (8:43 PM)

My guess is six innings. Will be interesting if he can string together some a couple of zeroes, because Kazmir looked shaky in the first.

steve (oklahoma)

hey jim do you think david price could become the best pitcher in the league soon

Jim Callis

  (8:43 PM)

Within a couple of years, sure. He's that talented.

jks (boston)

i think the sox should force varitek to retire then sign him as a bullpen coach. then they should trade lowell, buckholz and another prospect for russell martin, sign texiera and put youk on third. what do you think.

Jim Callis

  (8:44 PM)

I think that sounds great if you're a Red Sox fan but it's a pipe dream. How can they force Varitek to retire? The Dodgers wouldn't touch that trade, and I don't think Boston will break the bank for Teixeira with Lars Anderson just a year or so away.

Bill (Boston)

Tim Lincecum will have something to say about that jim (Price being the best pitcher in baseball)

Jim Callis

  (8:45 PM)

You guys know I love Lincecum, too. Anyway, the question said best pitcher in the AL . . .

Jim (Honolulu HI)

Will Papelbon ever become a starter for the Sox?

Jim Callis

  (8:45 PM)

No. Not sure his shoulder would hold up and he's too valuable as one of the few lights-out closers.

Chris (San Jose, CA)

Boras gets demonized in the press, yet he doesn't seem to care (he never defends himself). Why don't more people paint him as a David vs. the multi-billion-dollar owner Goliaths?

Jim Callis

  (8:46 PM)

I think Scott actually does care but realizes he's not going to win that battle in the media. Some of his tactics cause me to roll my eyes, but people forget that his job is to advocate for his players, not make the teams happy.

Andy (Akron, OH)

Do you not think that part of advocating for his players is caring for their image as well? I hate most of Boras' clients because he represents them...

Jim Callis

  (8:48 PM)

Now I don't think Boras cares about that.

Craig (Cincinnati)

Do you think the first playoff round should be a 7 game series?

Jim Callis

  (8:48 PM)

I would like to see it. Not so much out of a sense of fairness, but that I think it could make the first round even more compelling.

Sean (Sacramento)

Do the Red Sox change up their outfield at all next year? I think they might need to, but not sure how they would do so. Are they comfortable with a Bay, Ellsbury, Drew, Crisp outfield?

Jim Callis

  (8:49 PM)

I think they'll bring that outfield back. They aren't giving up on Ellsbury, they're financially committed and like Bay and Drew, and Crisp is a reasonable price good fourth outfielder who can fill in as needed.

Shane (Las Vegas)

Is Lugo done in Bean town

Jim Callis

  (8:50 PM)

If Lowell isn't ready to go next year, you may see Lugo at shortstop and Lowrie at third base.

Brian (DC)

Seven Game first round would have to have a stipulation for flexible dates for follow on series. These early November World Series game possibilities are silly.

Jim Callis

  (8:50 PM)

They could take away some of the extra off days they've built into these series. It could work.

Pete (ohio)

jim why dont the red sox brush upton/longoria off the plate a little they are WAY to comfortable up there.

Jim Callis

  (8:53 PM)

Couldn't hurt, could it?

Roger (Kansas City)

With all these baseball minds here can anyone let me know if there is hope for the royals in the near future. All I know is that Dayton Moore has been a life saver

Jim Callis

  (8:54 PM)

I like what Dayton Moore is trying to do, but I'm not sure there's enough talent in Kansas City or in the upper minors for the Royals to contend in the next couple of years.

John (Los Angeles)

If you could bring back only 2 of the Dodgers' free agents, who would they be?

Jim Callis

  (8:56 PM)

Ramirez and Lowe. Not sure they can afford Manny, though. I would have said Furcal, but I think he'll be easier to replace (with Hu or DeJesus) in the near future than Lowe would be.

George (NYC)

Wow, Kazmir is looking terrible tonight. This does not bode very well for the Rays.

Jim Callis

  (8:56 PM)

Not unless Boston continues to be unable to come up with some timely two-out hitting.

lamb (guam)

Jim, when do you tink the Cubs will finally win!!

Jim Callis

  (8:57 PM)

They should still have one of the best teams in the NL next year, so maybe even 2009.

Brandon (pa)

What do you think the Phillies should do for Game 3. Moyer who has been there 2nd best started all year but strugglin the playoffs, or Blanton who has pitched pretty good for them since coming over and pitched good in the postseason. Because whoever pitches game 3, starts game 7. So a big decision.

Jim Callis

  (8:57 PM)

I'd pitch Blanton in Games Three and Seven, and Moyer in Game Four.

mike (NY)

As a yanks fan, should i be worried about a possible rays dynasty?

Jim Callis

  (8:58 PM)

The Yankees aren't going to wither away and die--they're going to be able to field a $300 million payroll if they want--but you should be concerned that both the Rays and the Red Sox should be good for a while.

Steve (Palm Harbor)

Would 5 IP be good outing from Kazmir tonight?

Jim Callis

  (8:59 PM)

I think the Rays will have a quick hook tonight, with this game sandwiched between off days.

Matt (FL)

Do the Rays have any curses...like Curse of the Bambino?

Jim Callis

  (8:59 PM)

Maybe the Curse of Chuck LaMar, but they've overcome it.

Aaron (Baltimore, MD)

How good of a chance do you think the Orioles have to sign both Tex and Burnett?

Jim Callis

  (9:00 PM)

Not much of a chance. The Orioles have little chance of contending for a few years, and clubs like that don't usually attract top-tier free agents.

Dale (Tampa)

Do you think some of the top free agents will look at Tampa a little closer know?

Jim Callis

  (9:01 PM)

Not sure the Rays would spend enough to get them, though certainly they're a more attractive destination now.

Bill (Natick, MA)

Hey Jim, I've already pre-ordered my copy of the 2009 BA Prospect Handbook. Im guessing that Price and Wieters will be at or near the very top of your annual top 50 prospects list. Am I correct?

Jim Callis

  (9:02 PM)

I haven't started putting that together yet, but I'd think they'd be Nos. 1 and 2 on my Top 50.

Nick (Seattle)

Do you think Griffey will finish his career in Seattle?

Jim Callis

  (9:05 PM)

Griffey is pretty much cooked. He looks pretty bad in the outfield and is a shell of what he once was. I wonder if there's going to be much interest in him at all this offseason. He might make some sense for a Mariners club that won't be contending, to go on a farewell tour season with them.

Jim Callis

  (9:05 PM)

With that Pena home run, I think you can start making those Tampa reservations for the World Series now.

Jack (San Fran)

Does Brett Wallace make your top 50?

Jim Callis

  (9:06 PM)

Yeah, I would think so. Though again, it's just rattling around my head right now, there's nothing on paper and I haven't tried to stack guys up against each other.

Kenny (Montana)

What team do you think has the better shot against the Phillies?

Jim Callis

  (9:07 PM)

The Rays. Because I don't think the Red Sox are getting to the World Series now. 5-0 after the Longoria bomb . . . this game is starting to look familiar.

adam (seattle)

Why no Jacoby? I think it is a poor decision as he seems to be a spark plug to Boston's offense.

Jim Callis

  (9:08 PM)

He doesn't hit lefties as well as Crisp and he has been terrible in the ALCS. He drove the ball well against the Angels, but that seemed to mess up his approach. He's hitting a lot of harmless fly balls in this round.

bobby wood (new york city)

wow....this is amazing.....boston is really folding

Jim Callis

  (9:08 PM)

I wouldn't say Boston is folding. The Rays are just destroying them. The Rays are a very good team.

chris (las vegas)

I think i hear the fat lady singing.

Jim Callis

  (9:08 PM)

She's getting louder.

Ryan (San Francisco)

Anybody going to watch a Ray's/Phillies World Series?

Jim Callis

  (9:09 PM)

It's two compelling teams, so why not? And we won't get Manny vs. the Red Sox rammed down our throat, so that's a plus.

bobbo1227 (ct)

Is the sox pitching really this bad or are the Rays batters reallythis good..I don't think the sox pitching is as bad as they've looke however as good as the rays bats are they aren't this good...They look li a friggin all star team!!!

Jim Callis

  (9:10 PM)

It's more the Rays. They're a very talented team, and the Red Sox pitchers are not at their best.

Craig (Norwich, CT)

As much as it pains me to ask this, who are the leading candidates for ALCS MVP?

Jim Callis

  (9:11 PM)

Upton, Longoria, Pena. He won't win the MVP, but Wheeler's performance in Game Two might have been the biggest single-game effort in the series.

eric (green bay)

No tom brady, no world series.... what are the boston people gonna do this winter?

Jim Callis

  (9:11 PM)

Root for the Celtics?

Justin (Edwards AFB)

Power team vs Power team in the WS. I would think the Rays have the picthing to stemy the Phils bats, do the Phils have the same?

Jim Callis

  (9:12 PM)

I like Cole Hamels more than any of the Rays starters, no knock on the Rays. I'd pick the Rays to win the Series, but the Phillies will be a nice test.

Dean (Greenville, SC)

What are your thoughts on Obama possibly pushing back game 6 a half hour?

Jim Callis

  (9:13 PM)

I think that's brutal, but that's TV for you.

Matt Anderson (Sox)

Guys, the game ain't over till the 27th out, don't write off an offensive powerhouse before they've fired all their shots.

Jim Callis

  (9:14 PM)

Problem is, Ortiz and Varitek seem to keep coming up with two on and two out.

Jack Daddy (CT)

Game 6, what are you talking about Game 6??

Jim Callis

  (9:15 PM)

World Series Game Six. Check out http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3646198.

JR (Vegas)

More shocking loss: Pats to the giants in the SB or Rays over Sox in 5?

Jim Callis

  (9:15 PM)

Patriots to the Giants. Don't forget, the Rays beat out the Red Sox in the AL East and won the season series.

Scott (Boston)

What do you think about Pedroia winning the MVP?

Jim Callis

  (9:16 PM)

I think he has as good a case as anyone.

owen (wi)

the team that feels the worse about all of this is the angels. how could they not beat my hapless sox.

Jim Callis

  (9:16 PM)

Lot more timely hits for the Red Sox in that series. Really, all four games in that series could have gone either way.

Will (PA)

Looking back on the 2006 draft, who would you take, Longoria or Lincecum?

Jim Callis

  (9:17 PM)

Couldn't go wrong either way. I'd probably go with Longoria, especially if I knew I could sign him for six years and $17.5 million.

Dylan (Portland, Maine)

Will we see the same Rays team next year or do they have a lot of free agents?

Jim Callis

  (9:18 PM)

I think Baldelli, Floyd and Wheeler are the only significant free agents, and none of those guys is truly a key cog on the team. So you'll see most of this club back in 2009.

Jeremy (Chattanooga, TN)

Why not Mauer for MVP, Pedroia was great at 2B, but Mauer won the batting title while playing catcher

Jim Callis

  (9:19 PM)

Mauer has a case as well . . . I really can't get myself worked up much over who wins the awards.

John (Sydney, Aus)

so the Red Sox definately keep Bay for next year?

Jim Callis

  (9:20 PM)

Yes, he's under contract for a very affordable $7.5 million.

Jim Callis

  (9:21 PM)

Back in a minute after I take my two golden retrievers out . . .

rone (San Jose, CA)

That was a long pee break.

Jim Callis

  (9:27 PM)

No, really, the dogs needed to go out.

Cam (CT)

How tempted were you to name your Golden Retriever's Auburn and Yellowy Hue..you know..just for fun?

Jim Callis

  (9:28 PM)

As a Georgia grad, I would never name anything Auburn. They're named Benny and Terry . . . I'll let you guys try to figure out the theme there.

Matt (Detroit, MI)

i think the one problem with naming joe mauer as MVP is that his team failed to make the playoffs

Jim Callis

  (9:28 PM)

I don't have a problem with that. His team lost in a playoff in Game 163, he made a significant contribution to a contender. Likewise, I'd give it to Pujols in the NL.

Larry (Portland)

You have to be stunned that DiceK got thru an inning before you got back?

Jim Callis

  (9:29 PM)

I am.

Andy (Akron, OH)

Just because your team didn't make the playoffs doesn't mean you aren't valuable as to them

Jim Callis

  (9:29 PM)

Exactly.

Brian (Baton Rouge)

So Jim, I guess your ready for the dogs to come down here pretty soon huh?

Jim Callis

  (9:29 PM)

Their schedule is just ridiculous, isn't it? That's the SEC for you.

Kyle (RI)

Even though we havent seen much of them in the last few games of the series, the Boston bullpen is going to need some help next year. Timlin is done. Im not comfortable with Chris Smith and David Pauley coming up and taking larger roles with the team. Masterson is a starter. So, who do you think the Sox will target to upgrade the pen in 09?

Jim Callis

  (9:30 PM)

They may keep Masterson in the pen, which would give them Papelbon, Masterson, Okajima and Delcarmen as a bullpen nucleus, which ain't bad. I think they need to get a better lefty specialist than Javier Lopez, though.

Kevin (Boston)

Leadoff walk. Here we go Boston, Here we go!!!

Jim Callis

  (9:31 PM)

We'll see . . . they've teased you earlier tonight, to no avail.

mikedazzle (boston)

Jim, what about Daniel Bard coming up next year do you think so?

Jim Callis

  (9:33 PM)

He really seems to have found his niche in relief. I think the Red Sox will bring him along most intelligently than they did with Craig Hansen or Cla Meredith. Bard could be a nice addition to the pen in the second half of 2009.

Drew-Atlanta

Does BJ have 40-40 potential or are we looking at a 30-30 guy? I played with him in HS and he's always been the best player on the field...its great to see him healthy again

Jim Callis

  (9:33 PM)

Potential 40-40 guy if he gets enough steal attempts.

Jarrod (Miami)

Do you think the Red Sox could have used Manny's near .500 average in this series?

Jim Callis

  (9:34 PM)

Bay came into tonight batting .400 in the ALCS. Manny wouldn't have made a difference.

Jay (Boston)

Why not put Bay in the 4 spot then?

Jim Callis

  (9:35 PM)

Because Youkilis is a better hitter and he's batting .389 in the ALCS?

brant (St. louis)

Do you know what the rays plans are for reid brignac? As a cards fan i would like to see what the rays are wanting for him?

Jim Callis

  (9:37 PM)

Thing is, the Rays don't need a whole lot. Maybe a corner outfielder, but the Cardinals don't have one worth Brignac unless they're going to part with Colby Rasmus. (And yes, Rasmus can play CF.)

Alex (LA)

Are Rays that good?

Jim Callis

  (9:37 PM)

Yes.

Not Watching (ny)

if manny were still in boston he'd be hitting 4th regardless of Youkilis's numbers right now

Jim Callis

  (9:38 PM)

Sure. But this notion that Boston has lacked for production in either the No. 4 spot or in LF is just not true.

Scott (Nashville)

If/when the Rays win tonight, who do you like in the series?

Jim Callis

  (9:39 PM)

Rays in six.

Jim (Portland)

When was the last time a team like Tampa Bay came out of nowhere to be playing potentially for a World Series Title?

Jim Callis

  (9:39 PM)

There are a lot of parallels between the 2008 Rays and the 1969 Mets.

Buc N Ray (City of Champions)

Thought we might get a look at David Price in the ALCS. Guess not, looks like this one is in hand.

Jim Callis

  (9:40 PM)

Hey, he won Game Two!

Kevin (Boston)

Colorado won what 25 of 26 last year? And you say the 1969 Mets?

Jim Callis

  (9:41 PM)

Gee, Kevin. The Rays never had a winning season ever before and never had contended before . . . just like the 1969 Mets. The Rays also led the division or wild-card race for most of the season. So yeah, I say the 1969 Mets.

Pat (Buffalo)

Where do you see David Price and Matt Wieters starting next season?

Jim Callis

  (9:42 PM)

In the major leagues, never to return to the minors.

Efren (Tempe)

What is the likleyhood of Justin Upton being anywhere near as good as his brother

Jim Callis

  (9:42 PM)

High likelihood.

Noah (Athens, GA)

By the way, Jim.. I am in the Student Learning Center (soon to be the Zell Miller Learning Center) at UGA. You been back here to see it?

Jim Callis

  (9:43 PM)

I haven't been back to Athens since the 1996 Olympics. Way overdue for a return visit.

Matt A (Boston)

If the Sox are healthy next year meaning Ortiz, Lowell, Beckett, Drew do they contend again?

Jim Callis

  (9:43 PM)

Yes. I don't think Lowell or Drew is as vital as Ortiz or Beckett either.

john schueler (newburgh ny)

steelers

Jim Callis

  (9:44 PM)

Yes, my dogs are named after the Steelers' Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks. I know you were all breathless waiting for that answer.

Francisco (San Diego)

Are the questions being asked just for the game at hand?

Jim Callis

  (9:45 PM)

Ask whatever you want. Of course, the questions come in so fast that I can't possibly read them all, but anything is fair game.

Tom, Las Vegas

No Boston isn't lacking production from the 4th spot or LF, but that isn't all Manny did for the lineup. Manny Ramirez and Kevin Youkilis being on deck is not the same thing, and David Ortiz is pitched different as a result of that. Youkilis would have to continue his production for a few more years before he starts to get into pitchers heads like Manny does.

Jim Callis

  (9:46 PM)

Seems to me Ortiz is still drawing walks . . . he's just not hammering pitches he should hammer. He's getting pitches to hit.

Jason (Colorado)

Do you think Baseball should implement draft picks trading?

Jim Callis

  (9:46 PM)

I'd like it more for the added interest it would create. I don't think trading would solve any of the draft's problems, though, and it could give agents more leverage.

Kent (Toronto)

How do the Blue Jays look in the future, in the even more stacked than before AL bEast?

Jim Callis

  (9:47 PM)

Not a bad team, but hard to see them finishing better than fourth in most years.

Jim Callis

  (9:48 PM)

Wow, I'll acknowledge that Chuck Lamar was around when some of these Rays were drafted, but geez, he made a lot of bad moves, too. Nice revisionist history that he laid the foundation -- he laid the foundation for a lot of high draft picks by putting together some bad teams.

Omar (Philly)

The Sox are way overrated and i don't think they will make it to the World Series again in the next 5-10 years. What do you think Jim?

Jim Callis

  (9:50 PM)

I think you're wrong. They'll be back. Very good big league team, lots of money to spend, lots of talent in the farm system.

matt (nyc)

pena with another bunt, sweet.

Jim Callis

  (9:50 PM)

I concur. Not sure why more guys don't do that against the overshifts. It's something Ortiz should have considered in the ALCS.

Johnny (St Pete)

Omar...you spelled 'Yankees' wrong

Jim Callis

  (9:51 PM)

Good one, Johnny. Though the Yankees aren't going to go away, not with the potential of a $300 million payroll.

Nate (chicago)

I think it took an offseason without the Yankees for me, as a Sox fan, to realize that I respect Jeter

Jim Callis

  (9:52 PM)

Hard not to respect Jeter, isn't it?

LUKE (UW)

I think Wakefield's career is over what do you think Jim?

Jim Callis

  (9:53 PM)

I think he'll be back to eat some innings next year. But as Rob Neyer pointed out, he may have pitched his last postseason game.

Tyler (NJ)

where will carl pavano be jim?

Jim Callis

  (9:53 PM)

On the disabled list?

Jay (Sarasota)

Isn't the American League East clearly head and shoulders above every other division?

Jim Callis

  (9:53 PM)

Yes.

john schueler (newburgh ny)

should youkilis have grown a mohawk to maybe have a chance in this series?

Jim Callis

  (9:54 PM)

I think the Red Sox should start going to Mohawks right now in the dugout, while the game is going on.

Michael (Stevensville-MI)

What do you think is the possibilites of Detroit making the postseason next year?

Jim Callis

  (9:54 PM)

Not great. That division is somewhat more wide open than most, but they have a lot of repairs to make to the pitching staff and it's an old club.

John (New York)

Any chance MLB reorganizes the teams in different divisions and leagues to balance out the power more?

Jim Callis

  (9:54 PM)

Nope.

george (caroline, ny)

Pedroia... good for years to come or a bit of a flash in the pan?

Jim Callis

  (9:55 PM)

Not necessarily an MVP candidate every year, but good for years to come. He's legitimately talented. His hand-eye coordination has to rank with the best in the game.

Ben (Grand Forks, ND)

Can a guy from North Dakota get some love on some of his questions?

Jim Callis

  (9:55 PM)

It's conceivable, yes.

Paul (Hartsdale)

Who's NL mgr of the year?

Jim Callis

  (9:56 PM)

Charlie Manuel.

Peter (NYC)

im im hoping we get to see Red Sox 1b prospect Lars Anderson next year. Where do you rate him as far as prospects are concerned, and do you think we could see him next year?

Jim Callis

  (9:57 PM)

He's one of the best first-base prospects in the game, if not the best. Could see him in the second half of 2009 if Lowell doesn't make it back and the Red Sox tire of Lugo at shortstop.

Nate W (Lindon, UT)

Would you consider this year a disappointment for the Sox?

Jim Callis

  (9:58 PM)

I don't think you can. Going to the ALCS shouldn't be a disappointment. They got beat by a better team. Not like they lost to a vastly inferior club or blew some heartbreakers in the ninth inning.

Zach Rastall (Marinette, WI)

Will Ned Yost get another managerial job in the future?

Jim Callis

  (9:59 PM)

It will be tough with the way his tenure in Milwaukee ended. Seemed like GM Doug Melvin was the only one sorry to see him go.

Matt (Carlisle)

what are the chances of the sox making a comeback in this game?

Jim Callis

  (9:59 PM)

The odds are very long. They need to score at least a couple of runs in the next inning or two to make this competitive.

Jay (USVI)

What do you think of Braves OF Jordan Schafer as a potential MLB player?

Jim Callis

  (10:00 PM)

I like him, still think he's one of the best CF prospects in the minors, HGH suspension or not.

Fayer J. (Morgan, OH)

You can get the probability of the Sox winning in real time on FanGraphs.com

Jim Callis

  (10:01 PM)

And they have it as 6 percent with two outs now in the bottom of the fifth.

paul (chokago (chicago))

Can the cubs get rid of Soriano?

Jim Callis

  (10:01 PM)

Not with that contract, no. I don't think the Cubs need to panic, though. They had a very good team that played terribly for three games in October. They can get back to the postseason without tearing everything down.

Norman (San Jose)

are you a fan of Balt CF Adam Jones?

Jim Callis

  (10:02 PM)

I am. He's a future all-star.

Jim Callis

  (10:03 PM)

Let's liven up this chat with some extreme lightning round. Just to mix things up, I'm limiting myself to three-word answer for a while . . .

Greg (Davis, CA)

Who gets into the Hall the sooner? Barry or Pete Rose?

Jim Callis

  (10:03 PM)

Barry Bonds.

Dan (NE)

Do you like the Royals in '09?

Jim Callis

  (10:04 PM)

No . . . .500 ceiling.

Lindsey (Vermont)

What's Lowrie's place with the Sox in '09?

Jim Callis

  (10:04 PM)

Starting shortstop.

Kyle (Scottsdale)

NL regular season MVP? Has to be Ryan Howard right?

Jim Callis

  (10:05 PM)

Pujols deserves it.

Tom, Las Vegas

Sabathia, Wang and Joba or Beckett, DiceK and Lester.

Jim Callis

  (10:05 PM)

Red Sox trio.

James (Tampa)

Can we pop the champagne, Jim?

Jim Callis

  (10:05 PM)

Yes.

Mike (NC)

But who GETS it

Jim Callis

  (10:05 PM)

Probably Howard.

JImmy (Yonkers,NY)

Do u think the Yankees need to go after another starter with pett/wang/joba/hughes/muss most likely all coming back. CC will be too costly no?

Jim Callis

  (10:06 PM)

Not for Yankees.

Jim Callis

  (10:06 PM)

(not too costly, that is)

myles (htown)

wat about the stros chances next year

Jim Callis

  (10:07 PM)

They'll regress.

Kelly (Raleigh)

Jim, If the yanks miss the playoffs next year do you think Joe Girardis job is at stake?

Jim Callis

  (10:07 PM)

Yes.

Zach (Milwaukee)

Brewers starting SS/3B? Hardy/Gamel or FA, or Escobar/Hardy?

Jim Callis

  (10:08 PM)

Escobar/Hardy.

John (NY)

Any idea on Wilmer Flores's ETA? Think he'll be with the Mets?

Jim Callis

  (10:08 PM)

Mid-2011. Yes.

Chris (Spokane, WA)

How do you think the hurting mariners will finish in their division next season?

Jim Callis

  (10:08 PM)

Fourth.

joe (fairport ny)

what are the sox chances of getting jarrod saltamachia this offseason?

Jim Callis

  (10:09 PM)

Fair.

Mark (New York)

who wins the AL East?

Jim Callis

  (10:09 PM)

Red Sox.

Nate W (Lindon, UT)

who has the brightest future out of the young teams of the MLB?

Jim Callis

  (10:09 PM)

Rays.

Jon (Kzoo, MI)

AL Central Winner '09?

Jim Callis

  (10:09 PM)

Indians.

Chris (Satellite Beach Florida)

What do you think will be the strongest division next year

Jim Callis

  (10:11 PM)

AL East.

Dan (NE)

Will ARod retire as a Yankee?

Jim Callis

  (10:11 PM)

Yes.

Bill (SoCal)

Does ARod get the all time homerun title?

Jim Callis

  (10:11 PM)

Yes.

Porter (Dublin)

Do the Braves get back to the postseason under Cox?

Jim Callis

  (10:11 PM)

No.

Eddie (Charlottesville)

What will happen first? you answering one of my questions or the orioles making the playoffs?

Jim Callis

  (10:12 PM)

Answering your question.

Brian (Georgia)

Who wins the NL east?

Jim Callis

  (10:13 PM)

Mets.

Jeff (Cohasset)

Does Schilling pitch as a Red Sox again?

Jim Callis

  (10:13 PM)

I'll guess not.

brad (Tampa!)

do you think the Rays will get to the World Series more than just this year?

Jim Callis

  (10:13 PM)

Yes.

Mole (In a hole)

Who wins NL Central and NL West?

Jim Callis

  (10:14 PM)

Cubs, Diamondbacks.

joe (boston)

will you ever answer my question about the chances of the curse of manny

Jim Callis

  (10:14 PM)

Not buying it.

Chris (St. Louis)

who gets the NL Wild Card?

Jim Callis

  (10:14 PM)

Phillies.

joey (the bay)

is 09 or 2010 the time giants get back on there feet?

Jim Callis

  (10:15 PM)

Longer.

kevin (tampa)

do the rays have the best farm system? and who are their best prospects

Jim Callis

  (10:16 PM)

Rangers are No. 1.

Craig (NYC)

Will Barry Bonds ever play again?

Jim Callis

  (10:16 PM)

No.

hector (chicago)

does dempster stay a cub?

Jim Callis

  (10:16 PM)

Yes.

Tim (Philly)

Will the phillies sign Hamels or Howard to a long term deal first?

Jim Callis

  (10:18 PM)

Hamels.

Doc (Reno NV)

Do the Mets trade either Wright or Reyes?

Jim Callis

  (10:18 PM)

Would be silly.

laz (NY)

how do u like clay bucholz now?

Jim Callis

  (10:18 PM)

Still like him.

Jonathan (Las Vegas)

Yo Jim, who do you think has the best chance at winning the Triple Crown and will we see a winner in the next ten years?

Jim Callis

  (10:18 PM)

Pujols. Probably not.

Howard (Chicago)

Will Kerry Wood stay a Cub?

Jim Callis

  (10:18 PM)

Yes.

joe (fairport ny)

tek goes or stays?

Jim Callis

  (10:19 PM)

Goes.

Jon (Kzoo, MI)

Pirate's gonna break thier streak of playing sub .500 ball next season?

Jim Callis

  (10:19 PM)

No.

ron (missouri)

Does Frank Thomas have anything left in the tank or he is just hanging around to try for 600?

Jim Callis

  (10:19 PM)

Pretty much done.

Arnim, Chicago IL

are you ever going to coach again?

Jim Callis

  (10:20 PM)

Ha! Next spring.

Jim Callis

  (10:20 PM)

(hope to have you on the team again)

Kevin (traverse city,MI)

How many home runs does B.J. Upton hit next year?

Jim Callis

  (10:20 PM)

35.

Phil (Atlanta (TAMPA FAN))

starting rotation for rays in world series?

Jim Callis

  (10:21 PM)

Same as ALCS.

Curtis (New Zealand)

Over/under Manny/Red Sox references in the WS: 14,000

Jim Callis

  (10:21 PM)

Under, thankfully.

John (Mahwah, NJ)

Who hits more HRs in 2009: Longoria or Ortiz

Jim Callis

  (10:21 PM)

Longoria.

Mark (Tampa)

The Rays 6 outs to go

Jim Callis

  (10:22 PM)

I count nine!

Big Nicky (New York City)

Will Derek Jeter get 4000 hits? If not how many?

Jim Callis

  (10:23 PM)

No. 3,615.

Dan (CA)

Fernando Martinez: With the MLB Mets sooner/later than mid-2009

Jim Callis

  (10:23 PM)

Later.

Robby K (CT)

How many championships do you need in a 4-6 year period to be considered a dynasty?

Jim Callis

  (10:24 PM)

Three.

Gavin (Chicago)

hey jim does this century treat the cubs better than the last one??

Jim Callis

  (10:25 PM)

Has to, right?

Rob (PA)

Will David Price make the WS roster?

Jim Callis

  (10:25 PM)

Yes.

Quang (Seattle)

Who will have a brighter future: Brandon Morrow or Joba Chamberlain?

Jim Callis

  (10:25 PM)

Joba if healthy.

Johnboy (Syracuse, NY)

I know I'm getting ahead here, but what would your expectations be if it's a Philly/T.B. Series?

Jim Callis

  (10:25 PM)

Rays in six.

TJ (CT)

who's the yankee first baseman next year?

Jim Callis

  (10:26 PM)

Teixeira.

Bill (SoCal)

If you get a 3rd golden retriever what would his name be?

Jim Callis

  (10:27 PM)

Buck (for Belue).

Johnny (St Pete)

The bulldog?

Jim Callis

  (10:29 PM)

Yeah.

matt (stillwater)

higher ceiling bj or justin upton?

Jim Callis

  (10:29 PM)

I'll say Justin.

matt (ca)

do you think the angels have any chance of keeping texeira

Jim Callis

  (10:29 PM)

Yes, they could.

Veil (NS)

Does Tim Tebow get drafted as FB or QB in '09?

Jim Callis

  (10:30 PM)

QB.

Ty (Texas)

Better chance winning World series first: Astros or Cubs?

Jim Callis

  (10:30 PM)

Cubs.

Luke (Pinedale, WY)

Do you think dropping the DEVIL had an effect on the Sun Beams...sorry RAYS...success this season?

Jim Callis

  (10:31 PM)

Uh, no.

Patrick (Camp Lejeune, NC)

TO or Roy Williams? More TD catches this year.

Jim Callis

  (10:31 PM)

T.O.

Jason (Philly)

Odds you keep your job?

Jim Callis

  (10:31 PM)

Very good.

Jim Callis

  (10:32 PM)

Have to say Chuck LaMar was very gracious there.

Ty (Texas)

Better chance of winning a championship: Cowboys or Longhorns?

Jim Callis

  (10:33 PM)

Longhorns.

jack (pensacola)

should i go with matt schaub or jay cutler sunday ?

Jim Callis

  (10:33 PM)

Cutler.

jake (KC)

Wasn't that more than 3 words?

Jim Callis

  (10:33 PM)

Wasn't an answer!

Kyle (Chapel Hill)

No way Texas gets out of Big 12

Jim Callis

  (10:34 PM)

Cowboys a circus.

Tim (Orange, CA)

Adam Jones of the Orioles or Adam Jones of the Cowboys?

Jim Callis

  (10:35 PM)

Orioles version.

ben (nyc)

saw 5 - you gonna see it?

Jim Callis

  (10:35 PM)

No.

Brandon (Tewksbury, MA)

Vince Dooley/Belue/Walker or Richt/Stafford/Moreno

Jim Callis

  (10:36 PM)

Richt/Stafford/Moreno. Have to end the lighting round to answer this fully . . . Herschel obviously over Moreno, but Moreno is a stud and I'll take Richt and Stafford.

Graeme (Toronto)

Is Pat Gillick the next GM of the Blue Jays?

Jim Callis

  (10:36 PM)

No. More likely to be in some kind of advisory role with the Mariners.

Steven (Dixon)

Papelbon in the 7th. Boston is definetly in "Last Stand" mode now.

Jim Callis

  (10:36 PM)

Yep.

Jay Kenney (South Boston, Ma)

Why do you think the Blackhawks fired Denis Savard so quickly?

Jim Callis

  (10:37 PM)

That shocked me today. Don't understand it.

jacky (toronto)

where's burnett going to end up next year?

Jim Callis

  (10:37 PM)

Yankees.

Travis (PHX)

reports from the AJC are the braves are already in discussions for peavy. What would get a deal done? Hanson, Schaefer, Flowers?

Jim Callis

  (10:38 PM)

I just can't see the Braves giving up a big package for Peavy. They got burned on the Teixeira trade, and they're more than one pitcher away from being a realistic contender.

David (NH)

With Andruw Jones out of the postseason roster and his horrible season, do the Dodgers give him another chance next year? or do they eat the 36.2 mill contract and wish it never happened?

Jim Callis

  (10:39 PM)

They'll give him another chance. Might as well. But if he's horrible again, they should just dump him.

matt (I.E., CA)

What happened to Kotchman in Atlanta?

Jim Callis

  (10:40 PM)

He was disappointing. He's better than that, though I'm not sure he's going to develop more than average power at this point.

Andrew (Pitt)

Is Papelbon overrated?

Jim Callis

  (10:41 PM)

Not at all.

Jim Callis

  (10:42 PM)

I think this game is officially over, and B.J. Upton may have wrapped up the ALCS MVP.

Chuck (Atlanta)

Do you take Kazmir out now? I say yes.

Jim Callis

  (10:43 PM)

Yes. Let's see some David Price!

Geoff (UMass)

with this title running coming to a close, who wins another title first, the C's, Pats, or Sox?

Jim Callis

  (10:44 PM)

Red Sox.

Larry (Portland)

I can ALMOST understand leaving a blowout early... but trying to beat the traffic on the last game of the season? The Fenway (Un)Faithful?

Jim Callis

  (10:44 PM)

The end of this game would be pretty tough to watch if you're a Red Sox fan.

adam (ny, ny)

do you think pedro alverez will get called up from the minors next year in pittsburg and get the starting job?

Jim Callis

  (10:45 PM)

Maybe in September. I think he'll spend a full season in the minors.

Ryan (Oxford, MS)

How many years does Bobby Cox have left in Atlanta?

Jim Callis

  (10:46 PM)

Maybe just one more.

kyle (san diego)

what do u think of the collusion findings against the mlb in dealing with bonds?

Jim Callis

  (10:47 PM)

Well, there's no finding of collusion. The union is saying they have evidence, but no grievance has been filed yet and no arbitrator has ruled collusion took place. Should be interesting to see how this unfolds, though, and it's unclear what caused this deal between MLB and the MLBPA to hold off on filing the grievance.

Dennis (San Jose)

Why are armchair viewers so critical of fans leaving early? Do they know watching the end of this game is painful for a Sox fan?

Jim Callis

  (10:48 PM)

I agree. I don't hold it against anyone. This is a blowout, no drama and it's going to end at close to midnight ET.

Bryce (Seattle, WA)

Do the Seattle Mariners rebuild or reload this offseason?

Jim Callis

  (10:48 PM)

They need to rebuild. I wouldn't hire a new GM who thinks he or she could turn this club around for 2009.

Carl (St Pete)

this game is over boston has nothing to gain by leaving Papelbon in do you agree?

Jim Callis

  (10:49 PM)

I think they just don't want to pull him in mid-inning. This will be his only inning.

Nick (VA)

I think you should go pitch for the Sox right now Jim

Jim Callis

  (10:50 PM)

I don't think the plane could get me there in time.

Robert (MN)

who's warming up that they'll bring in?

Jim Callis

  (10:50 PM)

I think we may get some Timlin, which could push the game past midnight.

Eric J (VA)

Oh, it's too painful to watch the team not win its third title in 5 years... take it, pansies! Try waiting 100 years some time... (there, I feel better now)

Jim Callis

  (10:52 PM)

Cubs fan?

Matt (TX)

Do the Rays continue hitting the way they have been in the WS?

Jim Callis

  (10:52 PM)

That's a tall order considering how much they've strafed the Red Sox, and that the layoff may cool them down.

Tom (Florida)

At seasons end. Who will have a better rookie season. Evan Longoria or Atlanta Falcon's Matty Ice?

Jim Callis

  (10:52 PM)

Longoria.

Alex (Cleveland)

Will the Indians win a World Championship before the Browns or Cavaliers?

Jim Callis

  (10:53 PM)

Yes.

Sillac Mij (Madison)

Jim I have a huge exam tomorrow please answer this so I can get back to studying: Where will CC be pitching next year?

Jim Callis

  (10:54 PM)

I'll guess the Mets.

jackson (city)

how can you compare two rookies from two different sports with completly different obstacles?

Jim Callis

  (10:54 PM)

Because it's a chat and not rocket science.

john b (Marlboro, ma)

nomar in the hall of fame? i say yes

Jim Callis

  (10:55 PM)

I say not close.

Dan (Tampa)

paging Dr. Callis...

Jim Callis

  (10:55 PM)

Dr. Callis is getting sleepy.

Jeremy (New York)

Jim, where are you from?

Jim Callis

  (10:56 PM)

I grew up in Northern Virginia, went to college at Georgia.

James (Tampa)

Are you obligated to stay for the whole blood bath, Jim?

Jim Callis

  (10:56 PM)

I believe so! You've still got me for another hour.

Jake (St. Paul, MN)

How's Bill Simmons feeling right about now?

Jim Callis

  (10:57 PM)

Probably pretty sad. But under his grace period rules, he can't be angry.

Rob (Rockford, IL)

how much you getting paid to this?

Jim Callis

  (10:57 PM)

The same amount you're getting paid to ask me questions.

Eric (New York)

who is your altime favorite player?

Jim Callis

  (10:59 PM)

Hmmm. When I was growing up, Carl Yastrzemski was my favorite player. Mainly because I remember getting his Kellogg's 3-D baseball card (remember those? they were cool) and I was fascinated at how small they had to shrink the point size to get all his season by season stats on there. When I covered college baseball, my all-time favorite player was Mark Kotsay of Cal State Fullerton. Great player, great guy. If the Titans hadn't inexplicably missed the College World Series in 1996, he would hold almost every CWS record.

Kip (NY)

Does ESPN allow you to take bathroom breaks?

Jim Callis

  (11:00 PM)

I'm at home, so ESPN has no control over me!

Anthony (Tampa)

How important do you think this game was for Kaz's confidence heading into the WS?

Jim Callis

  (11:00 PM)

Pretty big. I didn't like the decision, but it came up aces for the Rays.

Tom, Las Vegas

Is BA going to rank prospects by position again this year?

Jim Callis

  (11:01 PM)

Yes, I think Matt Eddy is working on that right now for us.

Greg (California)

Maria Sharapova or Anna Kournikova?

Jim Callis

  (11:01 PM)

Sharapova.

zazonzz (xeroxx Minneapolis)

How cool would it be if the Rays won?

Jim Callis

  (11:01 PM)

If? Or do you mean the World Series? It would be a great story.

Stephen (Tampa)

How do we know this is really you and not your wife? She probably knows you well enough to fake your existance.

Jim Callis

  (11:02 PM)

You don't.

Nate W (Lindon, UT)

Do you enjoy answering questions about the game or random questions more?

Jim Callis

  (11:02 PM)

Either. The random questions are more interesting than the game right now.

jon (detroit)

what else do you do jim?

Jim Callis

  (11:03 PM)

I'm executive editor for Baseball America.

Shawn (The Bay)

Maybe I should rephrase it. Your Georgia / Florida pick please?

Jim Callis

  (11:03 PM)

Georgia, of course.

Jon (VA)

What is Baseball America

Jim Callis

  (11:03 PM)

Check out baseballamerica.com.

Danny (NU)

If i told you the Padres would take Buchholz, Masterson and Crisp for Peavy, would you pull the trigger?

Jim Callis

  (11:04 PM)

If I'm running the Red Sox, sure. But the Padres wouldn't do that.

Jason (Texarkana, TX)

If Michael Vick went to the Steelers and won a Superbowl, would you name one of your dogs after him, lol?

Jim Callis

  (11:04 PM)

I would not!

Michael (Atlanta)

So Jim, do you think that the Rays making it to the World Series over the Red Sox and rather than the Angels or Yankees just makes the idea of a salary cap more unlikely?

Jim Callis

  (11:05 PM)

Yes, though I don't think it was ever very likely.

Peter (Vero Beach Fl)

Does Madden have a lock on AL manager of the year?

Jim Callis

  (11:05 PM)

Yes, even before the ALCS.

Mike (New York, NY)

Jim, hows the Cubs farm system looking? Are they gonna be bringing anyone up next year that can make an impact?

Jim Callis

  (11:06 PM)

I don't think so. They're not loaded at the upper levels.

Christian (Colorado Springs)

Do you like cricket?

Jim Callis

  (11:06 PM)

No.

Manfre (Fort Bragg)

If it came down to it right now, Texas or 'Bama?

Jim Callis

  (11:06 PM)

I have to go with the SEC, and with Nick Saban over Mack Brown.

Chris (Baltimore)

What other sports besides baseball to you follow closely?

Jim Callis

  (11:09 PM)

Football, NFL moreso than college. With four kids, not a lot of spare time.

chuck norris (dc)

chances of hughes or kennedy getting 10 wins next year?

Jim Callis

  (11:09 PM)

I'd bet on Hughes over Kennedy, and I think Hughes has a good chance of pulling that off.

Fitzy (MA)

We finally got one. Do you sense a comeback?

Jim Callis

  (11:10 PM)

Not really, unless Ortiz goes deep here. He hasn't exactly been Mr. Rally Extender in the ALCS.

Jim Callis

  (11:10 PM)

Wow.

Jim Callis

  (11:10 PM)

We might not see Mike Timlin after all.

Gerard (Manila)

Too bad they already burned Papelbon.

Jim Callis

  (11:11 PM)

We may get him for another inning.

BRIAN (TEXAS)

BRINGING PAP IN THE 7TH WAS STUPID

Jim Callis

  (11:12 PM)

I disagree. They had to try to keep the game close and two runners on with no our made for a desperate situation.

Hugh (Memphis, TN)

If they come back (if) do you see them winning the ALCS

Jim Callis

  (11:13 PM)

I don't, not with the way the Rays are swinging the bat and with the way Beckett and Lester looked in their first ALCS starts.

Ryan (Tampa)

bringing pap in later could have meant a greater deficit. do you allow him to try to finish it out?

Jim Callis

  (11:13 PM)

Checking the pitch count. He did throw 25 pitches. I think we get Masterson.

Jim Callis

  (11:14 PM)

According to fangraphs.com, the Red Sox' chances of winning this game improved from 2.0 percent to 8.4 percent after the Ortiz homer. So still a long way to go.

Jim (Nashville)

The people who left are probably mad at themselves!

Jim Callis

  (11:15 PM)

Probably true.

Kip (NY)

Any idea how many folks are viewing this "MLB Gamecast"?

Jim Callis

  (11:16 PM)

No, but we're nearing the 30,000th question submitted to the chat.

A. Rodriguez (NY)

Oh darn. Just when I thought I was going to be able to expand my October friends list to Ortiz...

Jim Callis

  (11:17 PM)

Good one.

tony (charleston)

I hear a bunch of ppl use the word unorthodox when they talk about Maddon...how true is that and is he really trying to reinvent the game like some people say?

Jim Callis

  (11:18 PM)

I don't think he's trying to reinvent the game. He's just not afraid of new ideas.

michael (mass)

out of the 30,000 questions asked, how many are calling you names?

Jim Callis

  (11:18 PM)

A lot more than you might think.

Bill (Redmond)

Joba, rotation or pen?

Jim Callis

  (11:19 PM)

Sounds like the Yankees are definitely going to start him next year. But he hasn't held up for a full year of starting since he was a sophomore in college, so his health still has to be at least a mild concern.

Matt (Ca)

Why did the Giants call up Gilaspie

Jim Callis

  (11:19 PM)

I think it was a way to get him some extra money without exceeding MLB's bonus recommendation for his draft slot. Because they didn't give him much playing time at all (5 AB) in September.

Cody (Brooklyn, NY)

Brighter future... Mike Pelfrey or Joba???

Jim Callis

  (11:20 PM)

Joba.

Harris (Kansas)

DO my Blue Jays have a legitimate chnce of making the playoffs next year. Our pitching is among the best in the league.

Jim Callis

  (11:21 PM)

I think they'd be a legitimate contender in any other division, but they're the fourth-best team in the AL East, which makes it tough.

DB (St.Louis St.Louis)

When they're done, better career Manny or Pujols

Jim Callis

  (11:21 PM)

Pujols.

Not4Obama (Chicago)

how many innings do you let Papelbon go?

Jim Callis

  (11:22 PM)

I hope he can get through the eighth if the Red Sox. Can't see him going beyond that.

Justin (Ft Campbell, KY)

Jim, whats your take on New Englands fall from grace after Tom's injury?

Jim Callis

  (11:22 PM)

Pretty simple. Matt Cassel is no Tom Brady.

Will (NY)

Jim, TOUGH question... but take a guess... Who will be the next 300 game winner???

Jim Callis

  (11:23 PM)

Easy. Randy Johnson.

Stephen Lyons (Athens, TN)

What kind of snacks are you munching on over there?

Jim Callis

  (11:24 PM)

None, and I'm starving. You've just inspired me to get up and grab some Snyder's pretzels -- the big ones are the best.

Will (NY)

Jim, a follow up to my other question... I did not realize Randy was at 295. After Randy, do you see anyone reaching 300 and if so who???

Jim Callis

  (11:27 PM)

There's no other obvious guy. C.C. Sabathia is probably the furthest along, looking at career wins and current age.

Matt (Qaanaaq, Greenland)

Regular Snyder's big pretzels or the sourdough ones?

Jim Callis

  (11:27 PM)

Sourdough.

Ryan (Michigan)

Jim, what kind of music do you like? You seem like you'd be a Bob Marley kind of guy.

Jim Callis

  (11:28 PM)

Like a lot of 41-year-old guys, I suspect, I like more classic rock than new stuff. Springsteen, Zeppelin, etc.

Nick (VA)

Jim, how many runs do you think will Red Sox score in the 8th inning?

Jim Callis

  (11:28 PM)

Two would be nice, for drama's sake.

LAYER (Columbia, SC)

Who can't you stand in pop culture?

Jim Callis

  (11:29 PM)

"The Hills." I don't even watch it, yet it still manages to annoy me.

Nova (Chitown)

I hope they score 3 so you can ignore my questions for another hour or so. haha

Jim Callis

  (11:29 PM)

You're just cruel, Nova.

el (ma)

do you think mussina's going to make it to 300?

Jim Callis

  (11:30 PM)

I don't. Sounds like there's a good chance he'll retire, and I'm not sure he has 30 wins left in him anyway. He way exceeded my expectations this year.

Nick (VA)

Jim, I have to say The Who was a better band than Led Zeppelin. Agree or disagree?

Jim Callis

  (11:31 PM)

Disagree.

Jim Callis

  (11:32 PM)

Wow, this continues to get more interesting as Wheeler goes to a 3-0 count.

Michael (Okinawa)

Game 7 of the World Series...who would you want on the hill in the bottom of the ninth to protect your 1 run lead. Papelbon or K-Rod?

Jim Callis

  (11:32 PM)

Papelbon.

Jim Callis

  (11:33 PM)

Varitek is in the hole . . . and I suspect we may have seen his last AB for the Red Sox.

Jim Callis

  (11:33 PM)

And now it's a one-run game. Unbelievable.

Norman (Reno)

wow...who should Maddon bring in?

Jim Callis

  (11:34 PM)

I assume Howell is warming up in a hurry.

Rich (Philly)

what are the odds of boston winning the ALCS now?

Jim Callis

  (11:36 PM)

Don't know about the ALCS, but after the homer, fangraphs.com gives the Red Sox a 31 percent chance of winning tonight.

Spence (Springfield, MA)

Sox tie it - Rays win in 11. Rays aren't scared. You read it here

Jim Callis

  (11:36 PM)

Spence, I'm not sure I have three innings left in me.

will (buffalo)

if the red sox come back to win this series would it be fair to cinsder them one of the greatest comeback teams in postseason history?

Jim Callis

  (11:37 PM)

To win this series would be one of the more amazing comebacks, yes.

Geri (San Diego)

Hot dogs with Mustard or Ketchup?

Jim Callis

  (11:38 PM)

Mustard.

Jon R (VA)

Relish too?

Jim Callis

  (11:39 PM)

Sure.

NinjaVanish (WA)

the real question. hot dogs or brats?

Jim Callis

  (11:39 PM)

Brats.

Jim Callis

  (11:39 PM)

Preferably boiled in beer first.

Rick (minneapolis)

If the Sox win tonight, they'll be in good shape with Luis Tiant and Bill Lee for the next 2 games.

Jim Callis

  (11:40 PM)

Until Lee throws that floater to Perez.

Paul (Atlanta, GA)

Think we'll see David Price in the 9th if the Rays hold on?

Jim Callis

  (11:40 PM)

I think J.P. Howell first.

judd (fl)

Would they freakin pull Wheeler already!!

Jim Callis

  (11:41 PM)

I'm a little surprised -- Howell can get righties out.

dano (ireland)

IF sox tie it or go in front do we see pap in 9th?

Jim Callis

  (11:42 PM)

Good question.

tony (charleston)

I hear a bunch of ppl use the word unorthodox when they talk about Maddon...how true is that and is he really trying to reinvent the game like some people say?

Jim Callis

  (11:43 PM)

Tony, I answered that question about a half hour ago. Stop!

Jim Callis

  (11:43 PM)

Papelbon is at 38 pitches, FYI.

Brad (Gainesville Fl)

Drama?

Jim Callis

  (11:43 PM)

Yes, we finally got some desired drama.

doublej (raleigh, nc)

i love this at-bat, making him throw all these pitches

Jim Callis

  (11:46 PM)

Yeah, and usually seems like the hitter wins out when this happens.

Ben (Grand Forks, ND)

Do you bring in Howell if Pedroia gets up?

Jim Callis

  (11:46 PM)

Yes.

Jim Callis

  (11:47 PM)

Wow! Not sure what happened on that throw, because I thought Kotsay was going to be out. That throw was so bad that it resulted in Crisp getting nailed.

Jack (St. Pete)

I feel bad for Boston. Consider that they're the worst drivers in the US and all the U-turns that are being made back to Fenway!

Chris (Baltimore)

Was it close at second base?

Jim Callis

  (11:48 PM)

No, because the throw was so horrible. Never would have been cutoff unless Gross hadn't spiked it into the ground. I don't blame Crisp for thinking there's no way a throw gets cut off.

Jim Callis

  (11:50 PM)

So Upton due up third for the Rays, while the Red Sox have Pedroia, Ortiz and Youkilis up in the bottom half.

TJ Hooker (the Constitution State)

is this a good pitching change?

Jim Callis

  (11:51 PM)

Yes. Masterson has pitched some big innings and going a third inning with Papelbon would have been pushing it.

darn (atl)

i think he ran to second so that it WOULD be cut off and give kotsay a better chance to score the tieing run

Jim Callis

  (11:52 PM)

I disagree. If that throw had any shot to get Kotsay, they would have let it go through.

John (Melbourne)

Bunt coming up?

Jim Callis

  (11:53 PM)

I might hit and run, actually.

Mike (Lowell)

I'm abjectly terrified of Upton

Jim Callis

  (11:53 PM)

You and every other Red Sox fan.

Joe (New York)

what was the biggest comeback in post season history? the announcers said this was 2nd

Jim Callis

  (11:54 PM)

The Philadelphia A's trailed the Cubs 8-0 heading into Game Four of the 1929 World Series, and rallied to win 10-8.

Jason (Cleveland)

both teams are in deep trouble pitching wise if it goes to extra innings

Jim Callis

  (11:55 PM)

Both Masterson and Howell are capable of going 2-3 innings, so not as dire as it may seem.

Brandon (MI)

price could eat some innings

Jim Callis

  (11:55 PM)

Him too. Rays are in better shape than Boston. Not sure the Red Sox want to use anyone else left in their pen.

matt (atlanta)

doesnt boston still have timlin(god forbid) and byrd to pitch as well?

Jim Callis

  (11:56 PM)

Like I just said . . .

Kent (Greenville, SC)

Has anyone hit for the cycle in the postseason?

Jim Callis

  (11:57 PM)

The announcers just said no.

James (Tampa)

Masterson is wild!

Jim Callis

  (11:57 PM)

His ball moves so much, that's pretty typical.

Jim Callis

  (11:58 PM)

Not with Pena, not with one out. No no no.

Chris (Tampa)

What do you do if your facing Pena and Longoria in this case?

Jim Callis

  (11:59 PM)

Throw strikes and keep the ball down. Simple, huh?

Jim Callis

  (11:59 PM)

Wow again.

Jim Callis

  (12:00 AM)

Double play for the Red Sox, who now send the three hitters they want up in the ninth.

Jim Callis

  (12:00 AM)

As this chat enters its fifth hour . . .

Manny (LA)

Laptop or Desktop?

Jim Callis

  (12:00 AM)

I'm on my desktop. Wireless doesn't work great in some areas of my house.

Dan (Dallas, Texas)

who do you send to the mound to face Big Papi?

Jim Callis

  (12:01 AM)

Howell. I bring him in to face Pedroia after seeing how Wheeler looked last inning. Howell can get righthanders out, he's not a specialist.

Mark (Bellingham, WA)

How do you handle getting all of the questions?

Jim Callis

  (12:02 AM)

Can't keep up with them all. We're over 43,000 now, I just grab the ones that jump out at me.

Josh (Maine)

No more chat past midnight?

Jim Callis

  (12:02 AM)

I'm here until the end.

Jim Callis

  (12:03 AM)

Nice play by Bartlett there.

Brian (Maui)

And since you say that it will go 19 innings now

Jim Callis

  (12:04 AM)

I know I don't have another 10 innings in me.

Michael (TB)

Even if Boston pull this game out, can you see them winning 2 at the trop especially with Shields and Garza pitching?

Jim Callis

  (12:04 AM)

Probably not, also factoring in the way Beckett and Lester looked in their last start.

Brett (Myrtle Beach)

do you like the bunt?

Jim Callis

  (12:05 AM)

Yeah, just didn't execute it well. Not sure why the guys who get overshifted on don't do that more often and make teams stop overshifting. If you put the bunt in play, it's pretty much a hit.

Adam (Tampa)

Extra innings advantage, Rays or Sox?

Jim Callis

  (12:08 AM)

Rays have deeper relief pitching left, so I'll say Rays.

Jim Callis

  (12:09 AM)

Nice AB by Youkilis . . .

Jim (Tampa)

Was Maddon right for pulling Kazmir after 6?

Jim Callis

  (12:10 AM)

I think so. Couldn't have expected Balfour and Wheeler to do this.

Jim Callis

  (12:11 AM)

I can't believe Longoria fielded that ball cleanly, and Youkilis still winds up on second base.

Jason (Vancouver)

Bay's time for a hit!

Jim Callis

  (12:12 AM)

Or an intentional walk.

Ben (Grand Forks, ND)

How do you feel about this IBB?

Jim Callis

  (12:12 AM)

I'm fine with it. Bay has been hot in the playoffs, I like the platoon advantage and the setting up of the force if the Rays need it.

Philly Hater (In Hell)

How mad are the people who left in the 7th??? :-)

Jim Callis

  (12:14 AM)

Irate.

Chris (Lynn, MA)

Green light?

Jim Callis

  (12:15 AM)

Yes.

Jim Callis

  (12:16 AM)

Unbelievable.

Jim Callis

  (12:19 AM)

I don't know what else to say. Thanks for chatting with me, and good night!