ESPN

Buzzmaster

  (9:58 AM)

Stop on by Thursday night at 8:20 p.m. ET as Rob Neyer chats during Game 2 of the World Series!

Rob Neyer

  (8:22 PM)

Hey, I'm back. And all I can think about is how good the new Simpsons Halloween special looks...

Harry Philadelphia Pa

Do you think Charlie Manuel putting in Gregg Dobbs may make the Philly Offense a boost, and possibly stop leaving runners on base.

Rob Neyer

  (8:23 PM)

Dobbs is a pretty good hitter, Harry. But I would be a lot more impressed if Dobbs was playing third base tonight, with Stairs DH'ing. Pedro Feliz is just a disaster against right-handed pitching.

Shawn (Hawaii)

Rays shockingly bumped their payroll 80% this season. They're still way behind NYY/BOS. Do you see them continuing that trend in an effort to keep the talent there/keep pace with the AL East or doing a Marlin-esq fire sale and break the team up?

Rob Neyer

  (8:24 PM)

Shawn, there's no reason for a fire sale because it won't cost much to bring everyone back next year. The Rays that you see tonight are essentially the Rays that you'll see next spring.

Nova (Chicago, IL)

Rob, I just want to say that I think you are an excellent writer and you have a great gift. I am reading your book: Big Book of Baseball Legends. And I'm just taken in by everything. Congratulations on all of your success. I also thoroughly enjoy your chats. You tell it like it is and people need that. Everyone is soft, and it is nice to be in the midst of someone who knows how it is and tells it that way. Looking forward to tonight. Take care.

Rob Neyer

  (8:25 PM)

Nova, if you can't say something nice...

Ken, (ny,ny)

Why does it say 8:00 when it doesnt start until 8:30

Rob Neyer

  (8:27 PM)

Ken, the only thing I can figure is that all the suits got together in a hotel suite and decided to honor each others' fictional starting times.

Clint \ (Kentucky)

Rob, My clock is showing 8:26 and no actaul game updates have been made on the Gamecast. What gives? Is anything going on? I'm not saying you're boring but ...

Rob Neyer

  (8:27 PM)

Clint, the game starts in about 10 minutes.

rupp (HBURG)

Why don't games start until 8 why can't they start at 6?

Rob Neyer

  (8:29 PM)

It's a very simple thing, rupp: Someone ran the numbers and decided that starting the coverage at 8 Eastern would result in the maximum number of viewers around the U.S. I know it stinks if you're in the Eastern Time Zone, but there are three others where it doesn't stink.

Jason (St Pete)

Are the Rays too relaxed and nonchalant about losing Game 1?

Rob Neyer

  (8:30 PM)

I haven't been there with them, Jason. But I think *not* destroying toilets and ripping doors off their hinges is probably a good thing.

asd (d)

when they starting

Rob Neyer

  (8:31 PM)

Right exactly now, almost.

kyle (in)

what makes him big game james? what big games has he won?

Rob Neyer

  (8:32 PM)

Kyle, I blogged about this silliness earlier this week (I think). It's ridiculous. He's got that nickname because it sounds good. It's amazing to me that the broadcasters continue to use it, despite the utter lack of, you know, evidence that Shields actually pitches well in big games.

Chris (South Carolina)

Do you think that MLB is losing money because of the two teams that are in the World Series?

Rob Neyer

  (8:34 PM)

In the short term, sure. But in the long term this is a good thing, both metaphysically and financially. Because a lot of new fans are being created in Florida.

Melissa, New York, NY

Is it just me, or are the Fox Sports commentators a bit biased to the Rays?

Rob Neyer

  (8:36 PM)

You're not the first to suggest this, Melissa. Generally, suspicions of bias are misguided, and say more about the suspicious than about the broadcasters. But media types tend to root for the *story*, and the Rays are the better story. So yeah, maybe a little bit. They're human.

Kevin (Columbus, GA)

Rob, Shield's teammates in the minors gave him the nickname Big Game not any media blowhard right now.

Rob Neyer

  (8:37 PM)

I don't doubt it, Kevin. But that doesn't mean that anyone in the media should attach any significance to the nickname.

Lecho (Philly)

I think Tim McCarver just hates the Phillies. He has been squarely against them in every series

Rob Neyer

  (8:39 PM)

Lecho, why would Tim McCarver hate the Phillies? He spent years wearing their uniform. If anything, in his heart he's probably pulling for them to win.

Anton (Providence)

Sweet. The yellow dot moved to first base!

Rob Neyer

  (8:43 PM)

Hurray for the yellow dot. We do love him! On a serious note, Myers isn't controlling his fastball. But of course it's early...

Kevin (Pennsylvania)

Rob, over the years we've seen good pitchers who struggle in the first inning (Tom Glavine springs to mind). Why do you think that is?

Rob Neyer

  (8:44 PM)

I don't know, Kevin. Maybe it's physical, maybe it's psychological, maybe it's pesky gremlins. And that's assuming that it's real, and not just some quirky statistical fluctuation. Was Glavine like that every season? Most seasons?

Jason (Philly)

What advice would you give Myers going into this game???

Rob Neyer

  (8:45 PM)

Pray to all the gods you can think of.

Martine (Madison, WI)

I sure like Jon Miller.

Rob Neyer

  (8:46 PM)

Me too, Martine. I'm now listening to the radio broadcast, because the only thing better than baseball is baseball as told by Jon Miller.

Tim (Lawrence KS)

In light of the Big Game James ridiculousness, who's the best big game pitcher right now? Hamels?

Rob Neyer

  (8:46 PM)

I'll take Johan Santana, Tim. You can have Hamels. I'll bet I win.

Carl (San Diego, CA)

If the Rays win tonight, are the Phillies going to be a little worried going home with Moyer and Blanton? Will (Should) they try to throw Hamels three times in the series?

Rob Neyer

  (8:48 PM)

Sure they'll be worried, and they should seriously consider starting Hamels in Game 4. If the Rays win tonight, the Phillies' chances of winning the Series are exceptionally low (as these things go) if Hamels starts just once more.

Kieran (Philly)

Mr. Neyer, can you comment on this new trend of using the infield shift for just about every hitter?

Rob Neyer

  (8:49 PM)

Kieran, I'm sure the tactic is usually based on solid data, and so they'll keep doing it until the hitters adjust. And most of the hitters are either too dumb, too proud, or too unskilled to adjust.

Ray (Honolulu)

I just wish Miller would stop rolling his "r"'s. Doesn't that annoy you? Or is it his trademark?

Rob Neyer

  (8:53 PM)

You mean when he's talking about a Latino player? He's just pronouncing their names correctly! I wish every broadcaster would do that.

Thomas (Louisville, KY)

OMG Ryan Howard just hit a curve ball!!!! Did you guys see that? I don't care if it was hanging... The Series is the Phillies' now!

Rob Neyer

  (8:54 PM)

Everybody's trying to figure out "what's wrong" with Howard. There's nothing wrong with him that a larger sample size won't cure.

Matthew (Jonesboro, AR)

When did Ryan Howard become Adam Dunn (going from .312 to .251 and becoming a strikeout machine)?

Rob Neyer

  (8:54 PM)

That .312 was a fluke, Matthew. He'd never been a great hitter for average in the minors, and won't ever be again in the majors.

Danny(Philly)

Why is there no chance? You people act like Andy Sonnanstine is so great and hes so much better than Blanton.

Rob Neyer

  (8:55 PM)

Nobody said "no chance". But while Sonnanstine is far from great, he is better than Blanton.

Dan (Philly)

Is it a coincidence that there are a lot more comments from philly residents than tampa residents in here?

Rob Neyer

  (8:58 PM)

Granting your premise -- I don't pay much attention to whatever's inside the parentheses -- I'm not at all surprised. I think we know there are many, many, many more Phillies fans than Rays fans. Rabid and otherwise.

Joe (NY)

As a Yankees fan, when is the earliest that we can expect to contend for a playoff spot, or win one again? 2010? 2012?

Rob Neyer

  (8:59 PM)

2009, Joe. Book it: Yankees win 90-some games next year.

Katie (Philadelphia)

This is a Tampa-Philadelphia World Series. The Phillies haven't been in the Series since 1993 and the Rays haven't had a winning season since ever. Why are you entertaining questions from Yankees fans?

Rob Neyer

  (9:02 PM)

Because four hours is a long time, Katie. And thanks to you guys, I can't actually watch much of the actual game. :-)

Mac (Eugene)

Rob! Are you saying you dont like this job?

Rob Neyer

  (9:04 PM)

Nope. That's why I put the annoying smiley face at the end. (I hope that came through on your end!)

Bill (Ventura)

Rob this chat isn't moving that fast, are you eating?

Rob Neyer

  (9:05 PM)

I took one minute off to read Nate Silver's blog. I'm sorry, but I'm obsessed with the election.

Brian (Virginia)

The Trop great stadium? Or the greatest stadium?

Rob Neyer

  (9:06 PM)

Greatest. I just hope I get a chance to visit before they blow the place up.

Matt (Kansas City)

Obama or MaCain?

Rob Neyer

  (9:08 PM)

I'll never tell. But if you read everything I've ever written, I'll bet you could figure it out. (Or, alternatively, you could check the publicly available database and see who gets my money. But I don't recommend that.)

Joseph (AL)

The little yellow dots moved

Rob Neyer

  (9:09 PM)

Now they're moving a lot. Two scratch hits and a walk. Which might not be so worrying except there's only one out.

Brian (Marlton (NJ))

How can you call a player out and then appeal the call to first base?

Rob Neyer

  (9:11 PM)

That was a truly odd call. Kerwin Danley is not one of MLB's more highly regarded arbiters.

Mike (New Jersey)

OUTTA THERE as harry kalas would say

Rob Neyer

  (9:14 PM)

I think a good slide might have been more effective. By the way, why is Baldelli playing in this game? Is there something wrong with Gabe Gross? It's like Maddon has decided that he'll do everything else by the book, but right field is a personal plaything. Am I wrong about this?

JP (Sarasota,Fl)

Are you at tropicana field?

Rob Neyer

  (9:14 PM)

I'm in Oregon. They don't let me get on airplanes anymore.

JR (Vegas)

Rob, you are Contractually obligated to answer this question since I am a member of your fan club on facebook. Did you know such a group existed? Have you ever considered joining facebook?

Rob Neyer

  (9:15 PM)

No, and mildly.

tony (tmp)

gabe gross cant field

Rob Neyer

  (9:15 PM)

Actually, Gross is regarded as a pretty solid right fielder. Plus he has the added virtue of being a lefty hitter with some pop.

Sam (Portland)

Rob, please explain the appealed out call for me and others who do not have tvs?

Rob Neyer

  (9:17 PM)

The umpire raised his right arm as if to call the batter out, but then somehow said the pitch was ball four. Which it probably was, objectively. But Danley seemed to want to call it a strike before changing his mind. He just messed up. You'll see that every once in a blue moon.

si (valley stream)

Kid pulled a joke on the Internet today saying Steve Jobs of Apple Computer was rushed to the hospital with a heart attack, causing the stock to drop, until they found out it was false.

Rob Neyer

  (9:18 PM)

Really? You have to love the kids. They're always doing something amusing. And they say the darnedest things!

jimcaple (st.pete)

Rob--As far as the ump goes, he raised his hand as if to call strike three, then signalled for the appeal. It looked awkward and looked like a called strike, but he was calling for an appeal on whether Baldelli went around.

Rob Neyer

  (9:21 PM)

Is that really you, Jim? Maybe, but it happened so fast. Isn't there usually a pause before the defense actually asks for the appeal?

sam (Long Beach)

That Steve Jobs thing was a couple weeks ago.

Rob Neyer

  (9:22 PM)

Couple weeks, couple hours . . . whatever. Haven't you read your Einstein, Sam? "Time" is nothing but a human construct. In someone's world, that rumor will be floated next Monday.

Ryan (Minneapolis)

I can't watch the game because of a conflict between Fox and the cable carrier up here. It's killing me to have no idea what's actually going on in the game!

Rob Neyer

  (9:23 PM)

Am I really that lousy a chat host, Ryan? And is your local sports radio really so lousy that they're not carrying the ESPN Radio feed? Anyway, the Rays are winning 3-0. Hope that helps.

Tracey (Philadelphia)

Please post this: The Phillies are the WORST hitting team with RISP in the history of mankind. They can't even manage to hit a sacrifice fly. How many times do they have to put men on 2nd or 3rd base with no outs before someone actually manages to execute properly? This is so frustrating...they would be winning this game if they could hit with RISP. Shields is not pitchign well, they are letting him off the hook by swinging at bad pitches.

Rob Neyer

  (9:24 PM)

As you wish.

Luis (Mexico)

Hey Rob... as you can see I'm from mexico... so have no idea who you are >D could you tell me a brief bio..

Rob Neyer

  (9:26 PM)

Wow, suddenly I find that question incredibly difficult to answer. I'm just a guy who loves baseball and lucked into a great job, some years ago. (But if you want more, there is a Rob Neyer Wikipedia page. Last time I checked, it was mostly accurate.)

Amy (Florida)

Hi Rob. Could you explain how to pick up a radio feed for the game? Thanks!

Rob Neyer

  (9:29 PM)

Two options. One, turn your radio to the AM and just search for signals until you find the game. But don't do it between innings, or you'll get a commercial and won't know it's the game. Or two, Google "sports radio" plus the nearest big city to you. Anyway, that's what I would do.

Chris (Louisville, KY)

Hey Rob. With the way R. Howard is struggling, do you think this slup will end before the Rays bats fully wake up, or is he done for the series?

Rob Neyer

  (9:29 PM)

Howard will hit a home run in this series. Trust me.

Ari (Canada)

Rob, the reason for Baldelli playing tonight is because Maddon said he can't play on two consecutive days and Hamels and Myers are both reverse-platoon guys, more effective against the opposite side.

Rob Neyer

  (9:31 PM)

Well, OK. But do we know that Hamels' and Myers' reverse-platoonness are real, and not just statistical flukes? Hamels I can sort of see, because he throws so many change-ups. But what's the explanation for Myers?

Phil (Philly)

Myers can just throw good sliders

Rob Neyer

  (9:33 PM)

According to Fox, Myers has one of the five best curveballs in the majors.

Jay (NYC)

First Phils hit with RISP.

Rob Neyer

  (9:34 PM)

Good for them. Now they just to actually score a run.

Dave (Philly)

Rob, can you explain why the home/away games are split 2-3-2, rather than 2-2-1-1-1?

Rob Neyer

  (9:35 PM)

That's how it's been for a long, long time, Dave. It's just about the logistics, I'm sure. Doing it your way would be more expensive, and would add a couple of days to the schedule.

Steve (Houston)

From BP - As mentioned in the linked piece, Maddon cited Brett Myers? reverse split as a reason for the use of Baldelli tonight. Left-handed batters hit just .235 against him, righties .293. However, that?s entirely a balls-in-play thing. Myers had a much higher walk rate against lefties and similar isolated power against both sides. Against lefties, he allowed a .283 BABIP; against righties, .323. His ?backwards? split is a statistical fluke, not a reflection of his skills.

Rob Neyer

  (9:35 PM)

Thanks, Steve.

Kevin (IA)

Why does no one give Shields credit for the lack of success with RISP? A lot of pitchers just tend to buckle down with runners on, especially with a 3 run lead he doesn't try to be too perfect with no one on because he just needs to avoid the walk while with runners on he has to try making his pitches a little better

Rob Neyer

  (9:37 PM)

They do? I haven't seen that research, Kevin. Could you send it to me?

SkyWalker (Menlo Park)

How did it feel to get rejected from the BBWAA when 16 other ESPN columnists were admitted in 1st year of elgibility?

Rob Neyer

  (9:39 PM)

Hey, who told you about that? Oh right; my Big W page. Anyway, I wasn't disappointed because I didn't aspire to membership. Frankly, though, I was annoyed by their attempts to explain it away. Go ahead and blackball me -- after all the things I've written about various BBWAA members over the years, I probably deserve it -- but at least be honest about what you're doing. That was my take, anyway. I honestly don't think about it anymore.

Sven Dedic (Belleville, Canada)

I was just wondering, did you know the percentage that Tampa Bay had going on the ESPN predicted winner when they were up 7-0 in game 5 against the Red Sox?

Rob Neyer

  (9:41 PM)

I'm not sure what we had, but somebody had the percentage at 99.6, just a tiny bit ahead of the Red Sox beating the Mets in Game 6 of the '86 Series.

anthony (chicago)

i thought we werent talking about the percentage thing tonight!

Rob Neyer

  (9:41 PM)

That wasn't tonight's percentage!

Gary (CT)

Rob do you think Cliff Floyd will be in Tampa next season?

Rob Neyer

  (9:42 PM)

We'll see. I don't know how much credit he gets in the front office for his veteran leadership. But DH and RF are the two obvious spots where the Rays have room for improvement. And I promise you they won't stand pat this winter. They're too smart for that.

Banks (Charleston)

Rob, who is your favorite ball player? Do you have a fovorite team?

Rob Neyer

  (9:44 PM)

I used to spend a lot of time thinking about and worrying about and crying about the Royals. Not so much anymore. As for players, no one in particular. I do like players who ride bikes and read books and love animals and stuff.

Anon (ebaumsworld)

Hey Rob, what game (4-7) do you think the Phillies will win the World Series?

Rob Neyer

  (9:45 PM)

I know you're joking, but I'm reminded that rain is forecast for Philadelphia on Saturday. If that happens we'll definitely see Hamels start Game 4, in which case all bets are off.

Independent fan (Nashville)

Why didn't Tampa sacrifice the runners over?

Rob Neyer

  (9:47 PM)

Which runners? Oh, you mean when they had first and second? You don't do that in the fourth inning with a good hitter up. Anyway, they just safety-squeezed a guy home. With Bartlett, who's *not* a good hitter.

Mike B. (NYC)

Have you ever met the great Derek Jeter?

Rob Neyer

  (9:48 PM)

I have not had the great honor, Mike. I believe the great Jim Bouton is the only Yankee I've met.

Connor (San Fran Saint Louis)

Not cool enough to meet Jeter?

Rob Neyer

  (9:50 PM)

Not even close.

Dave (Ithaca)

What about Bill Simmons?

Rob Neyer

  (9:51 PM)

Nope. But we share the same literary agent, so I sort of feel like I know him.

Garrett (CT)

Hey Rob, any idea what the TV ratings are looking like for this series? I wonder if a lot of people are like me and turned off the TV when the Rays won

Rob Neyer

  (9:52 PM)

Today my friend Maury Brown reported that they were lousy for Game 1 (to read more, check out www.bizofbaseball.com). But I really don't give a hoot about the ratings. I'm watching, and you're watching. Why should we care who isn't?

Bob (LA)

Rob, what are the odds of you telling me what RISP is in my lifetime?

Rob Neyer

  (9:54 PM)

Runners In Scoring Position.

Eric (NJ)

I care about the low ratings because I hate FOX. I'm glad they cancelled Arrested Development, the greatest show ever, to put on even more terrible reality television.

Rob Neyer

  (9:55 PM)

You know what? I love Arrested Development, but it got canceled because nobody was watching. I commend Fox for keeping it on the air for as long as they did.

Ali (Boston)

Rob, I'm new to baseball, and I never got a clear answer for this question. Who is the Michael Jordan of baseball? i.e. the one and only best player of all time?

Rob Neyer

  (9:57 PM)

Babe Ruth. First he was a great pitcher, and then he became the greatest hitter.

Brandon (Tampa)

WOW NICE DP!

Rob Neyer

  (9:58 PM)

Boy, this is something else. The Phillies just keep getting runners on base and they just keep wasting them. Oh, for those of you not watching, Werth got doubled off first base on a liner to right. Great throw by Baldelli.

Peter (Ca)

And thats why Baldelli is in the game Rob

Rob Neyer

  (10:00 PM)

Okay, but do you think Gabe Gross couldn't have made that same play?

Jeremy (Virginia)

Upton leadoff homer?

Rob Neyer

  (10:00 PM)

Nope. Nice swing but off the end of the bat.

Rob (Philly)

The only problem with my Phillies being in the World Series and moving through the playoffs is they often interfere with The Office. Fortunately you can catch it online of course. How great did you think last week's episode was? I absolutely loved it. Oh, and I hate Star Fox (Werth) right now.

Rob Neyer

  (10:02 PM)

Star Fox? Is that really his nickname? If not, it should be (even if I don't know why). About The Office, I have a digital recorder. Greatest invention since the paper clip.

Brian (Iraq)

Sounds like a lot of negativity, just be glad you are sitting at home watching the World Series, and you aren't over here in Iraq, wishing you were home. Be thankful for that!

Rob Neyer

  (10:04 PM)

I'm exceptionally glad, Brian. There was talk of sending me over there in '91, and I'll always be grateful it didn't happen.

jake (MN)

Rob, you always say on here who you think will win NL awards, how about commenting on the AL MVP and cy young?

Rob Neyer

  (10:05 PM)

Probably Pedroia or K-Rod for the MVP, and Cliff Lee for CY. But the MVP balloting will be super-interesting.

Brian (Orlando)

n your (evidence-based) opinion, who's the best defensive starting SS in the majors? Is Bartlett in the discussion?

Rob Neyer

  (10:06 PM)

Yeah, he probably is. Oddly, most of the really good shortstops seem to be in the National League right now.

Dani (Philly)

The Phillies can't seem to capitalize on anything. Does that mean they're about to bust out some big innings or are they just not ready for the big stage?

Rob Neyer

  (10:07 PM)

They're facing really good pitchers and they're hitting in some tough luck. Simple as that, Dani.

Nick (Schenectady)

Should K-Rod really get MVP consideration even though the save is one of the most over-rated stats in baseball and he arguably wasn't even the best closer in baseball?

Rob Neyer

  (10:08 PM)

I don't think he should. I think he will. Voters are attracted to shiny objects.

Gabe (Denver)

How many games do you see David Price winning next year?

Rob Neyer

  (10:10 PM)

A dozen, maybe. I suspect they'll have him on pretty short leash. He's thrown only 125 pro innings this year, and I doubt if they let him throw more than 165 next year.

Mike (NY)

Mauer! Mauer should be AL MVP! You didn't even mention him!

Rob Neyer

  (10:11 PM)

Mike, you know I would vote for him. But he won't finish in the top five, and maybe not even in the top 10.

AJ (Madison, WI)

Quentin! Quentin should be AL MVP! You didn't even mention him!

Rob Neyer

  (10:11 PM)

He missed a month of the season, AJ! A month of the season! The season!

James (Pittsford, NY)

Is this Tampa Bay team the biggest underdog story ever?

Rob Neyer

  (10:13 PM)

I can't really speak for the other sports, James. But considering that the Rays were something like 150-1 shots before the season to win the World Series, I have to think they're pretty high on the list.

gizmo (philly)

wow this percentage thig dont give the phillies no chance

Rob Neyer

  (10:15 PM)

In a related note (courtesy of Elias), the Rays have blown just one lead of more than three runs all year. In Game 5 of the ALCS.

Jim (Boiling Springs, PA)

100th pitch

Rob Neyer

  (10:17 PM)

Thanks, Jim. And that might have been an out if Pena hadn't been playing so shallow(ly?). Joe Morgan thinks it's odd, but I'll bet the Rays have numbers to back up the positioning.

nn (pearl city)

Don't the Rays have a lot of similarities with the Amazins? They were pretty big underdogs too, another expansion team with no history of winning.

Rob Neyer

  (10:19 PM)

Yeah, that's fair. The Mets were better in 1968 than the Rays were in 2007, but then again the Mets actually won the World Series. Until the Rays win, they're probably a tick behind the Mets still.

sj (melbourne)

This innings there has to be a score

Rob Neyer

  (10:21 PM)

We'll see! Rays opened the Series 0-for-19 with RISP, which was sort of close to the record. But there's a reason it was close to the record: It's really, really hard to hit in luck that crappy for so long. By the way, this is a great time for a pitching change...

Kennedy (Atlantic Ocean)

Rob, how many times has Feliz been up to bat with Runners on base and not do a thing this game.

Rob Neyer

  (10:22 PM)

I don't know. But as I mentioned early on, Feliz shouldn't even be playing in this game. And he certainly shouldn't be hitting in the seventh inning of a close game, with runners on base.

CJ (Sparta, NJ)

Dodgers sign Manny for 3 years @ 95 Million. What do you Think?

Rob Neyer

  (10:23 PM)

I think that's crazy talk.

Mike (Delaware)

Pedro Feliz went 2-3 yesterday and has been making good contact lately. Why shouldn't he be there?

Rob Neyer

  (10:23 PM)

Because. He. Can't. Hit. Right. Handed. Pitch. Ing.

Fahad (Riverside, CA)

You mean 6th inning Rob?

Rob Neyer

  (10:24 PM)

Sixth, seventh, whatever. You gotta go for the runs now, when they're out there.

Alex (Durango, CO)

Feliz batted .249 on the season and was .231 against righties...it's not that big of a dropoff.

Rob Neyer

  (10:25 PM)

Career numbers, Alex. Career numbers. The bigger the sample size, the more it tells you.

Matt (Cherry Hill)

Cole to pitch game four if rays win this one?

Rob Neyer

  (10:28 PM)

If the Phillies lose tonight, and then Game 3 too, I think they have to start Hamels in Game 4 if he's able to do it, physically.

Jamie (Durham/NYC)

Rob, this may be a little specific- but who should the Rays put in right field next year? Hinske, Gross, Baldelli, Perez, Zobrist, Aybar? Or should they just go get someone?

Rob Neyer

  (10:29 PM)

A Gross/Baldelli platoon would be pretty good. Or even a Gross/Ruggiano platoon. I suspect they'll want to upgrade that spot, but to do it they'll have to trade young pitching. And they do have a surplus in that area.

Carol (St.Pete)

I think Perez has loads of potential.

Rob Neyer

  (10:30 PM)

I hope so, Carol. He's the sort of person I could really get to like. But I don't see that potential in his minor-league performance.

Rod M (Union City, Pa)

Do you think platooning anyone is ever a good idea?

Rob Neyer

  (10:31 PM)

Sure. Most teams would probably benefit from platooning at two positions.

Chris (Philadelphia)

only 70 pitches after 6 innings, myers could go the whole game at this rate.

Rob Neyer

  (10:32 PM)

Wild, huh? There are lots of weird numbers in this game...

Jacob (Omaha)

How many men do the Phillies have left on base tonight?

Rob Neyer

  (10:35 PM)

Looks like eight in six innings. Feels like more.

Dave (Nova Nation)

Unless they have a serious chance of winning, they save Lidge so TB doesnt see him when not necessary right?

Rob Neyer

  (10:36 PM)

Well, I don't know that you use him in the eighth if you're down 4-0. But I'm not sure you *don't*, either. I don't think seeing him on Thursday makes him easier to hit on Saturday.

Alexa (DC)

Why did they take Shields out? He was pitching REALLY well

Rob Neyer

  (10:38 PM)

Alexa, I'll bet if they ask Maddon after the game, he'll say that Shields' pitches just weren't quite as sharp as they had been, earlier. You don't want to get beat with a guy's 108th pitch when you've got a bullpen full of live arms.

Nik (Maui)

Do you expect Price to close the game for TB if its a save situation?

Rob Neyer

  (10:40 PM)

I suspect that save vs. non-save is a non-issue tonight. Look at the lineup; if Price pitches, it'll be against Utley and Howard, the Phillies' two best lefty hitters. And then Miller will be available to face a lefty pinch-hitter if necessary.

Andrius ((San Mateo, CA))

Do you bother putting pants on for these chats? I probably wouldn't if I had to host one from home.

Rob Neyer

  (10:41 PM)

I like to feel like a professional, my friend. I'm actually wearing a bow tie and penny loafers right now.

Drew (Philadelphia)

Do you think Stairs would have been better suited to DH tonight?

Rob Neyer

  (10:41 PM)

I thought Dobbs should have been at third base with Stairs DH'ing.

Joe (NYC)

Should they use Price for 2 innings?

Rob Neyer

  (10:43 PM)

I don't know how durable Price is, Joe. But I doubt if we'd see that.

joseph (Philadelphia)

rollins has easily been the WORST player for the phillies so far this word series. not a good sign as a leader of this team.

Rob Neyer

  (10:44 PM)

It's only two games. Let's not bury the guy quite yet.

Carol (St.Pete)

He pitched 5 in Yankee stadium, didn't he?

Rob Neyer

  (10:45 PM)

Sure, but then he was geared up for starting. I don't know if he can pitch two innings tonight, and another inning Saturday. I'm not saying he can't. I'm saying I don't know.

brad (santa ana, ca)

pants damnit! are you wearing pants! I don't want to chat with you if you are only wearing a bow tie and loafers!

Raj (Tampa)

I wonder what the record for most LOB in a shutout is. Where's Elias when you need them?

Rob Neyer

  (10:46 PM)

Actually, I'm getting regular updates from Elias (via Bristol). I'll let you know if anything comes in...

Jim (Boiling Springs, PA)

Nasty pitch

Rob Neyer

  (10:48 PM)

True that, Jim. Might have been an inch out of the zone, but if so you can't blame the ump for missing it, as it was low and away, probably the toughest call to make. Anyway, Price is coming in to face the lefties...

andrew (boston)

The most runners left on base during a nine-inning shutout is sixteen (16). It has occurred twice in Major League history: May 24, 1994, when St. Louis shutout Philadelphia and May 7, 1998, when Seattle shutout Toronto.

Rob Neyer

  (10:50 PM)

Wow. Cool. Thanks. Man.

Greg (Los Angeles, CA)

how does clayton kershaw stack up against price? i know there's a gap, but how big is it?

Rob Neyer

  (10:51 PM)

Kershaw's a Grade A prospect, a two-or-three-per-year sort of prospect. Price is A+, a once-every-three-or-four-years prospect.

James (Alabama)

I like this decision by Maddon. Old school, when you used a closer-type to put out the fire, no matter if it was the 9th or not.

Rob Neyer

  (10:53 PM)

You still like it, James? Price just walked Utley on four pitches, all of them outside fastballs. It's easy to get a little over-excited by a good inning or two. But Price probably isn't the second coming of K-Rod. Not yet, anyway.

Kyle (San Diego)

Walk Utley, but pitch to Howard?

Rob Neyer

  (10:53 PM)

It wasn't on purpose, Kyle.

Zac (Muskegon, MI)

The Brewers have said that they will offer Sabathia a contract offer after the season. Do you think the Indians will do the same?

Rob Neyer

  (10:54 PM)

Yes and no, but the Yes is qualified because the Brewers won't make him a *serious* offer.

Jim (Boiling Springs, PA)

Smoke! Grab some pine.

Rob Neyer

  (10:55 PM)

No smoke. Slider. Then again, Price's slider hits 89, so maybe that actually qualifies.

Nick (tucson)

10 runners stranded i can not believe it

Rob Neyer

  (10:56 PM)

Hey, they need six more just to tie the record!

Josh (San Antonio)

It seems like the Phillies ARE rusty, after all. Have they even gotten a hit with runners in scoring position this World Series?

Rob Neyer

  (10:56 PM)

Yeah. One. An infield hit that didn't drive in the runner from second. So really that shouldn't count.

Kennedy (Atlantic Ocean)

Rob, this has been fun and all, but I have to say good night. I can't watch this horrific display of the National League Representatives in this game. Pathetic.

Rob Neyer

  (10:58 PM)

Thanks for hanging around for as long as you did. And don't worry: the Senior Circuitites will win a World Series again someday.

Josh (VA)

It wouldn't have been better with anyone else. They're the best of the NL. Truly. And I hate the Phillies.

Rob Neyer

  (10:59 PM)

Actually, I think the Cubs could have given the Rays the best fight. If they pitched like they did during the regular season.

Tim (Boston)

I'm a Sox fan, rooting for the Rays, but this ump really seems to be caught up in the excitement in that building tonight. Very questionable calls on the first pitch to Howard, as well as the strikeout pitch.

Rob Neyer

  (11:01 PM)

The strikeout pitch was a strike. I didn't see the first one. This hasn't been Kerwin Danley's best game ever, I'm afraid.

Colin (NJ)

I feel bad for myers, really hasn't pitched a poor game. A lot of seeing eye singles, bloops and a brutal blown call. He could easily have given up only one or two runs.

Rob Neyer

  (11:02 PM)

You're absolutely right, Colin. But he knows that. Most pitchers don't feel too bad about losing when they pitch well. If they did, they'd have a hard time living with themselves.

Phil (VA)

What do you think we see from Jamie Moyer tomorrow? With his experience and pitching style versus the Rays youth and aggressiveness, I would not be surprised to see a good outing.

Rob Neyer

  (11:04 PM)

I hope so, Phil. But he's facing an American League team that hit 180 homers this season (granted, some of those homers aren't on the roster). I'm a little bit frightened for him.

Greg (South Korea)

Adam Eaton still has a year left in his awful contract. What in the world do the Phillies do with him?

Rob Neyer

  (11:04 PM)

Designate for assignment, prior to outright release. Eat money. Learn lesson.

brandon(PA)

that overhead shot is embarrasing the PitchTrax.

Rob Neyer

  (11:05 PM)

Brandon, the overhead shot is deceptive because it's not from directly overhead. Try to replicate the angles with your fingers, or a salt shaker or something, and you'll see what I mean.

Dave (Philly)

is that the worse stadium you have seen in your life? Looks like a circus tent

Rob Neyer

  (11:07 PM)

It does! Nice analysis! Hey, do you know why they called Manfred von Richtofen's squadron "The Flying Circus"? Because it traveled by train, like a circus. True story.

chris (seattle, wa)

why do they even have a covered stadium in tampa?

Rob Neyer

  (11:07 PM)

Because there was a time when politicians thought domes were cool. Seriously.

Chico and the Man (Garageville,NYC)

hey chris, ever been to Florida in the summer time??

Rob Neyer

  (11:08 PM)

Yes. And jeez, was it ever hot. But I did attend two games in the great outdoors, and was perfectly comfortable.

Jonathon (FL)

Doesnt the new stadium have a wind sail like roof covering half the field?

Rob Neyer

  (11:09 PM)

Not exactly. But sort of, and man does it look cool. But those are just pretty drawings. The Rays don't have a deal for a new ballpark yet, and as far as I know they're not close.

Ethan Anderson (Baghdad, Iraq)

Can I just say, I love technology? Baseball is the only thing keeping me sane in this place. Thanks for the great chat and baseball ESPN!

Rob Neyer

  (11:10 PM)

You're incredibly welcome, Ethan. I have to say -- and I'm not generally all that sentimental -- it thrills me to know you guys are able to enjoy the games with us.

Ken (orlando)

Rob, in your honest opinion, what's the WORST ballpark you've ever been to?

Rob Neyer

  (11:12 PM)

That's easy: old Veterans Stadium in Philadelphia. I could find exactly zero redeeming qualities about that place. It was worse than the Kingdome.

ryan (camp taji, iraq)

Can we stop talking about ballparks and talk about how excellent David Price has been. From being the minor league Pitcher OTY to being in the WS!

Rob Neyer

  (11:14 PM)

Sure, Ryan. But I have to mention this . . . I don't think Price should even be eligible to pitch in the postseason. It's a ridiculous loophole and should, I think, be closed.

Justin (UConn)

Did anyone else just hear the rays fans chanting "hey hey hey goodbye"? ...a little premature?

Rob Neyer

  (11:15 PM)

I'll say. Especially considering that Eric Bruntlett just hit the most unlikely homer of the postseason so far. He hit only two all year!

K (ID)

Why shouldn't Price be allowed to play?

Rob Neyer

  (11:16 PM)

Because he wasn't on the 25-man roster prior to September.

Adam (Schenectady, NY)

Rob, wasn't The Vet designed as a football stadium orginally? I remember going to games there and it just felt like it was.

Rob Neyer

  (11:18 PM)

It was designed to accommodate both sports. Which worked so well that most of those multi-purpose stadiums have now been destroyed.

Phil (CT)

Rob, if the Rays bring in a right-hander for the 9th, do they pinch hit for Ruiz, or let him swing?

Rob Neyer

  (11:18 PM)

Oh, you have to pinch-hit for Ruiz. Stairs, presumably.

Ed (Cleveland)

What's the loophole Rob?

Rob Neyer

  (11:20 PM)

If one of your guys is on the DL, you can replace him with someone who wasn't on the roster before September. And since you can always find a guy to put on the DL, you can essentially use whoever you like in September. In this particular case, you've got Troy Percival who actually says he's healthy enough to pitch, but the Rays leave him on the DL to make room for Price. It's wrong, and it should be stopped.

Bob (Des Moines)

It may be ridiculous but it's a loophole that every team is free to exploit, providing they have the talent.

Rob Neyer

  (11:21 PM)

Sure. So change the rule. If it's not there for a reason, just get rid of it.

Kubit (Denver)

What was the best stadium you have been to?

Rob Neyer

  (11:21 PM)

I like Fenway and Wrigley. The time machines.

Josh (NY)

Rob, this is not correct. The loophole only applys to people on the 60 day DL. Now teams usually have players on the 60 day DL for entire seasons, but still it's a lot more restrictive. Also the player has to replace a player in the same position (so it has to be anohter pitcher)

Rob Neyer

  (11:22 PM)

You sure about that, Josh? Either way, the effect is the same, as you can always shift a guy from the 15- to the 60-day DL.

colin (uk)

i just started watching baseball in the last few weeks and i cant get enough of it. Not sure why, i find it quite mesmerising.

Rob Neyer

  (11:22 PM)

Welcome to the club, Colin. We're thrilled to have you.

Brian (Syracuse, NY)

Hey Rob, Check out the 30 min. SNL tonight. As Frank Claindo would say "Very funny".

Rob Neyer

  (11:24 PM)

Thanks, Brian. I just set the recorder, will watch tonight after the game (and before my ESPN Radio spot at 1:22 Eastern for those of you who want to know what I *really* think).

Fernando (Florida)

What do you think is happening to Longoria?

Rob Neyer

  (11:25 PM)

Nothing. He's having a couple of games without hits, which would pass with absolutely zero notice in April, May, June, July, August, or September.

Mike (LA)

Still Price?

Rob Neyer

  (11:26 PM)

Waiting to find out . . . Yes! I'm a little bit surprised. But I should stop being surprised by Maddon.

Carrie (Green Coach Green Couch)

1:22 am?

Rob Neyer

  (11:27 PM)

Eastern. Yeah. I'm real big among long-haul truckers.

Anthony (Tampa)

Rob, no offense but I'm tired of everybody bashing the Trop, every stadium has their problems, the Trop may not be the best stadium but it's what we've got.

Rob Neyer

  (11:27 PM)

Hey, I saw hundreds of games in the Kingdome. No argument here.

Greg (NJ)

Why doesn't Manuel pinch-hit for Ruiz? It worked with Bruntlett last time around.

Rob Neyer

  (11:28 PM)

Because he doesn't have many right-handed bats on the bench. Plus, Ruiz just doubled!

Joey (Greenwich)

How long do you stick with Price? Don't you think he's getting a little tired?

Rob Neyer

  (11:29 PM)

Don't know, but I would have Balfour and Miller working in the bullpen right now...

Michael (Portland, OR)

That was HBP

Rob Neyer

  (11:30 PM)

Wow. You're absolutely right, Michael. I watched the replay, and there's no question about it: That pitch grazed his jersey. So Danley blows another call...

Brianne (Illinois)

Hey Rob, if Danley is so sketchy, why in the heck is he umping the WS? Shouldn't they have their best guys in there?

Rob Neyer

  (11:32 PM)

They should, but the umpires' union doesn't see it that way. They want to spread the wealth around. Socialists.

Chris (Los Angeles, Ca)

Chase Utley 2 run homerun, callin it now!

Rob Neyer

  (11:33 PM)

Okay, Chris. I think that's a tough assignment against Price, for a left-handed hitter. But we'll see. I do think Price is past the point at which we should expect his sharpest pitches...

shaun (oregon)

Both balls hit off of price this inning were smoked!

Rob Neyer

  (11:35 PM)

Rollins' out was a bloop. But Utley just was on top of a foul ball. Oops, now he's gone. Well done, kid.

Jim (OH)

Will Howard finally get a big hit?

Rob Neyer

  (11:35 PM)

Would be a great moment, but this matchup does not favor him.

Christian (High Point, NC)

Annnnnnnnd ... game!

Rob Neyer

  (11:36 PM)

Yep, grounder right into the shift, fielded by Iwamura in short right field. Maybe Price really *is* the new K-Rod. Phillies 1-for-15 with runners in scoring position.

Marko (Slovenia)

Can the Rays carry the momentum into game 3? Greetings from the other side of the atlantic ocean!

Rob Neyer

  (11:37 PM)

I'm not a momentum guy, Marko. But you have to like Matt Garza over Jamie Moyer.

tim (PHILLY)

well that is a coincidence stat rob. the phillies hit .302 with RISP during reg. season

Rob Neyer

  (11:38 PM)

Of course it is. The Rays could have won last night, and the Phillies could have won tonight. It's an odd sport that way.

Nick (Toronto)

Will Maddon bring out Price again in the 3rd game?

Rob Neyer

  (11:39 PM)

Sure, if the situation comes up. He threw 42 pitches, and I don't think he would pitch again tomorrow night. But they're not playing tomorrow night.

Harris (NYC)

How do you feel about David Price not knowing the rules of baseball? He was just asked if Rollins got hit by that pitch, and he said only in the jersey. "It didn't hit him, only in the jersey."

Rob Neyer

  (11:40 PM)

That's awesome.

Matt (Tuscaloosa, AL)

Price as the new K-Rod. Ha. He's in a different league than K-Rod ? one of the most over-rated closers ever.

Rob Neyer

  (11:42 PM)

I meant in the sense of K-Rod joining the Angels very late in the 2002 season, then blowing everybody away during the postseason.

James (Australia)

Rob, are you doing game 3?

Rob Neyer

  (11:43 PM)

Nope, I'm off for Game 3, but will be back for Game 4 Sunday night. Thanks for sticking around tonight, and until next time don't forget: "If a million people say a foolish thing, it is still a foolish thing."