Chat during The NLCS and ALCS Game 3s!
 |
 |
 |
 |
Submit your questions and comments now and join The Show on Saturday during the games!
The ShowGirl (8:23 PM)
Welcome to The Show! Game 3 of the ALCS was rained out on Friday night. Tune in right here on Saturday to talk about the Cards and Astros at 4 p.m. ET ... we'll get to the Yanks and Sox later in the evening at 8 p.m. ET. Lots of action Saturday -- be here!
Buzzmaster (4:04 PM)
Hey there folks, no chance of a rainout with Houston's roof, so we're going to get started with The Show: NLCS Game 3 in about 10 minutes!
Buzzmaster (4:17 PM)
All right, it's a typical fall day in New England (and presumably wherever you are), with a doubleheader of baseball games on tap. What could be better? Everyone ready?
Kevin (Arkansas)
Here we go CardinalsHere we go! (clap clap)Here we go CardinalsHere we go! (clap clap) Everyone ging along!
Grant (St. Louis)
Good to see you here Buzz
Buzzmaster (4:18 PM)
Likewise. You guys excited?
Grant (St. Louis)
Go Cards!
Potsos (St. Louis)
It's fairly obvious to St. Louis fans that the Cardinals are MLB's best and most well rounded team. When the Yankees and Cardinals meet in the World Series (Sorry Boston. We feel your pain. See: Detroit Red Wings), will most Yankees fans be surprised when the Cardinals easily dispatch the Yankees? Will they realize that the Cardinals will be 4-2 againt the Yankees in World Series play afterward?
Buzzmaster (4:20 PM)
Easy now Cardinals fans. You guys taking Clemens and Oswalt for granted?
Bart (TN)
Cards have no chance against the Rocket today
Peter (Frisco, TX)
Buzz, I finally feel like the Cardinals are finally getting the attention from the media that they rightfull deserve.
Luis (St. Louis)
Open the roof...!!!!!!!
Rob Neyer (4:21 PM)
Happy Saturday Doubleheader, everybody. I'll be posting updates after every half-inning (or most of them anyway), and I'll also throw in a few comments (including answers to your questions). For the sake of all of us, let's hope the Astros win...
Peter (Frisco, TX)
Open the roof!!! It's not raining.
Buzzmaster (4:22 PM)
I've got to agree. Playoff baseball should go "indoors" as a last resort.
Grant (St. Louis)
Why don't they appoint the owner of Fox as the next Commissioner of Baseball? Perfect day for baseball in Houston: 80 degrees, blue Sky. And they are closing the roof. Why, you ask? Because they want to make sure the shadows don't give TV a bad view. This is complete BS. Shows you who truly runs baseball. Baseball was made to be played outside. It's time the Commisioner's Office steps up.
Rob Neyer (4:23 PM)
I understand the reasoning: a lot more people are watching this game on TV than are watching live. But if I were in the ballpark today I'd be pissed (in the American, rather than the British sense of the word).
Jeremy (St. Joe, MO)
If Suppan pitches anything like he pitched in LA, Houston is in BIG trouble.
Brent (Manchester, NH)
Do you think the Rocket will retire (again) after this season?
Buzzmaster (4:25 PM)
Suppan was a lot better on the road this season.
Rob Neyer (4:26 PM)
I think Rocket's future depends upon the Astros. If they go into rebuilding mode this winter, I doubt he'll be back and I doubt that he'd play somewhere else (unless the Yankees call). But if they commit to winning again, he has to come back, doesn't he? I mean, the guy's probably going to win the Cy Young Award.
Buzzmaster (4:26 PM)
Womack making Clemens work at 0-2.
Jeremy (St. Joe, MO)
Cardinals need to go deep in the count every at bat.
Buzzmaster (4:27 PM)
Home run Walker to put the Cards on top 1-0.
roger (stl)
Well-hit ball, Walker!
Brent (Manchester, NH)
that was fast
Greg (STL)
Walker just went deep in the count, eh.
Buzzmaster (4:29 PM)
Did adding Walker get the attention it deserved? Seem like everyone wrote him off to age/Coors Field.
Marty (austin)
our number 2 hitter got a homer in both losses so maybe so how's that for positive thinking
Jose (Chicago)
pujols rarely k's
Buzzmaster (4:30 PM)
But Clemens gets him to ground out softly to short.
Grant (St. Louis)
Age maybe...But if you looked at Walker's Home/Away splits while in Coors...He could hit...
Brent (Manchester, NH)
the cardinals and the red sox have similar lineups... power all the way down but the difference is the cards are coming on at the right time
Buzzmaster (4:32 PM)
1-0 after the first half. Clemens looked pretty good to me, Walker just jumped on an early fat pitch.
Brent (Manchester, NH)
Still, this is not how the 'Stros wanted to come out
Kevin (Arkansas)
adding Walker for no players on the current roster and getting the Rockies to pay all but $5 million of his salary was the best move made by any team this season!
Marty (Austin)
It's way to early to get worried in a game with these hitters.
Bart (TN)
It'll be interesting to see how the Cards pitch to Beltran
Rob Neyer (4:34 PM)
Heading to the home half of the first . . . Yes, Jeff Suppan was 10-1 with a 3.55 ERA in road games this season (and 11-1 if you count his Division Series start). But do those road stats really mean anything? I would argue that they don't, that the sample size simply isn't large enough to tell us anything. So unless you have an explanation for the difference between Suppan's home and road stats, I'm going to assume it's a statistical fluke.
Buzzmaster (4:35 PM)
Biggio comes out hitting, Astros fans have to like the sight of that.
Marty (Austin)
is it better to have bidge on first just to make sure they pitch to Beltran
Buzzmaster (4:36 PM)
The word "careful" comes to mind watching this at-bat
Buzzmaster (4:36 PM)
Also "achtung"
tony (columbia, mo)
When did Beltran turn into babe ruth for crying out loud...he's pitching to him like hes bonds
Bart (TN)
pitching around him...figures
roger (stl)
i would like a 6-4-3 here......c'mon ground ball!
Buzzmaster (4:38 PM)
How about a 5-3 DP? Will Bagwell contribute anything this series?
Grant (St. Louis)
nice turn by rolen...
Jose (Chicago)
that's why you pitch around beltran
Jose (Chicago)
why keep bagwell in the three spot?
Luis (St. Louis)
Why Houston does not put Beltran as third batter?
Rob Neyer (4:39 PM)
According to a Fox graphic -- don't worry, I'm listening to ESPN Radio -- Suppan's got eight pitches. Really? What could those be? Let's see . . . three fastballs (cut, two-seam, four-seam), curveball, slider, change-up . . . that's only six. I know he doesn't throw a knuckleball or a gyroball. Anybody know what's missing?
Buzzmaster (4:41 PM)
Whatever pitch it was, Berkman drilled it to center to score the run and tie up the game.
Bart (TN)
terrible throw by the "amazing" jim edmonds
Kevin (Arkansas)
his curve has 2 angles so that's 7, but I dunno #8
roger (stl)
Sinker?
Grant (St. Louis)
is that the first 2 out RBI for houston in this series?
Marty (Austin)
sinker=2 seam
Buzzmaster (4:44 PM)
At this point, Suppan may be in double figures for each of those eight pitches pretty soon.
Rob Neyer (4:44 PM)
By the way, ESPN Radio's Dave Campbell just said the roof is closed because that's how Clemens likes it. If true, is this any better than a TV network calling the shots? I don't see how you let a player -- an employee -- dictate that sort of policy.
Buzzmaster (4:44 PM)
Houston, Hello! HR for Kent to left.
Brent (Manchester, NH)
3 straight balls followed by a 2-run homer
Bart (TN)
already 20 pitches for suppan
Jeremy (St. Joe, MO)
8th pitch must be the FAT ball
Dustin (Houston)
I guess this means Suppan isn't pitching like he pitched in LA.
Peter (Frisco, TX)
OK, this is my first time joining this chat. I have posted three comments, none of which I have seen so far.
Buzzmaster (4:46 PM)
There you go
Dave (Ft. Lauderdale)
something has to be done about the juice box, you can almost bunt a ball out of there
Rob Neyer (4:47 PM)
3-1 after one inning, thanks to a couple of Astro homers. I told you Suppan's not some sort of Road Wonder. He gave up 25 home runs in 188 innings this season, and I'll bet you he gives up another this afternoon.
Buzzmaster (4:48 PM)
I'll counter Rob's point and say that if the best way to get fans to the stadium is winning, then it makes sense to do whatever your employees feel, justified or not, helps them win.
roger (stl)
those two homers woulda been outta any park
Grant (St. Louis)
How deep was that homer hit? Could it of been grabbed in Busch?
tony (columbia, mo)
I don't like it, but in honesty I could care less whether the roof is closed or opened. Whats the difference? Unless it affects flight of ball, which it clearly does not. C'mon Jimmy.
Buzzmaster (4:50 PM)
It's home run derby in Houston ...
Brent (Manchester, NH)
This game is unbelievable
Buzzmaster (4:51 PM)
Time to bring in Miceli?
Luis (St. Louis)
It seems that the roof is not helping Clements this time...
Rob Neyer (4:53 PM)
Buzz, I'd agree if we were talking about pre-game music in the locker room, or which silly alternate jersey the team's going to wear. But the roof's a different thing. If having it open isn't a tangible benefit, then why spend an extra $100 million (or whatever) to have the retractable roof? There should be a simple policy based on dew point and precipitation, and the team should stick to it.
Rob Neyer (4:55 PM)
Fine play by Ensberg to end the inning, but yet another home run makes it 3-2, Astros. Hey, how important is this game, anyway? Am I right in saying that no team, ever, has come back to win a postseason series after being down 0-3?
Grant (St. Louis)
Yes you are right Rob
Grant (St. Louis)
doesent mean it can't be done though...if the cardinals take the attitude that its over when/if they are up 3-0...the astros will be the first
tony (columbia, mo)
I believe you are right Rob, and this is must when for clemens. on a football note for those in Missouri, Mizzou is tied with Texas 14-14 and just pick of a V. Young pass at the fifty. Go Tigers
Kevin (Arkansas)
0-3 is game over, but 0-2 can be overcome. the Cards did it in 1985 so this series sin't over just yet.
Buzzmaster (5:01 PM)
Solid play by Rolen, is he the best defensive third baseman in the game? What do you guys think?
Brent (Manchester, NH)
Remember a couple of years ago when Rolen was in Philly and they couldn't wait to get rid of him? What a mistake that was.
Buzzmaster (5:02 PM)
Anyone else have a problem with Fox sponsoring an "Election Minute" with a 60-second stump speech? I don't care who you're voting for, that's just an odd marriage.
Jeremy (St. Joe, MO)
Fox should NOT be doing political commercials during the playoffs.
Buzzmaster (5:03 PM)
Back to Rolen ...
Kevin (Arkansas)
is there any doubt about Rolen being the best? Beltre has come on as of late, but lets see him do it in a non-contract year before we go stripping Rolen of his crown.
Vaup (Marion,Il)
if he isnt the best defensive third basemen ever then he certainly is the best all around 3rd baseman ever
Dave (Ft. Lauderdale)
Rolen clear number 1, with Marlin Mike Lowell in second
Dave (Ft. Lauderdale)
Getting rid of Rolen in Philly is another reason Bowa should have been fired
Josh (Iraq)
Shoot, Sup went two, bring in the best bullpen in the game and let them go to work.
Buzzmaster (5:05 PM)
Back to the heart of the order, how does Clemens pitch Walker this time?
Rob Neyer (5:05 PM)
Okay, so nobody's ever come back from being down 0-3 in a postseason series. I wish I knew how many postseason series that was; I looked this up a few years ago, but I'd have to search through my old columns. Anyway, if two teams are as good as each other, the chance of one beating the other four straight times is roughly 1 in 16. But it hasn't happened even that often, presumably because 1) the team that's down 0-3 is demoralized, and/or 2) the team that's down 0-3 isn't nearly as good as the other team. My opinion is that the latter explanation is the better one.
Brent (Manchester, NH)
I think he comes right at Walker
Grant (St. Louis)
no pitching around walker with albert behind him
roger (stl)
Welcome to the SHOW Josh!, great to hear from you in Iraq!
Buzzmaster (5:07 PM)
Easy fly to left by Walker, two away with Pujols up.
Andrew (New York)
There is absolutely no way Pujols is 24 years old, more like 28
Buzzmaster (5:09 PM)
Sets down Walker and Pujols to end the inning. Is Clemens settling in, or are there more HRs to come?
Bart (TN)
Smart move by Pujols...pop out on a 3-0 count
Peter (Frisco, TX)
This Houston crowd is not nearly as loud as Busch Stadium fans, and Minute Maid has the roof closed.
Josh (Iraq)
I think this is a high-scoring affair. Especially with the Cards' bats
Jose (Chicago)
Clemens looks far from dominating (no k's right?) I say there's more to come
Dave (Ft. Lauderdale)
the Cards have a "nintendo" lineup
Rob Neyer (5:11 PM)
I don't think anybody's going to suggest that Houston fans are into the game like St. Louis fans are. In St. Louis -- and downstate Illinois, and parts of Iowa, Kentucky, Arkansas, and Tennessee -- the Cardinals are something like a religion. I know, because that part of the country is my tribal homeland.
tony (columbia, mo)
Crowd is quiet because they are teetering on the blink of elimination, they feel it coming. Anixously quiet, thats what I think
Marty (Austin)
not having many k's is probably not that bad as long as he's getting quick outs he HAS TO PITCH 7
Grant (St. Louis)
would Garner use Lidge for over 2 innings?
Mayer (Jerusalem, Israel)
What are Lidge's number when pitching in more than two innings?
Rob Neyer (5:13 PM)
Just because Pujols went to high school in the U.S., we know his age is legit? How do you figure? Maybe we'll never know for sure, but in 15 years I'll trust his career progression more than his high-school transcript.
Andrew (New York)
The Cardinal fans are like College Football fans with the red shirts, Its like watching Nebraska play a game
Jose (Chicago)
houston fans seem to think they would win every game if Lidge could pitch every inning
Tyler McKee (Texas State University)
that was so close to gone
Brent (Manchester, NH)
That would have been the wimpiest home run ever
Marty (Austin)
those are the hits that you can blame the short porch on
Rob Neyer (5:15 PM)
Wow, Beltran's double was a routine fly-out in any other ballpark but Fenway. Do they have a nickname in Houston for hits like that?
Jeremy (St. Joe, MO)
That would have been an easy fly out in St. Louis
Buzzmaster (5:16 PM)
Houston has first and third, can they do more with these kind of chances than they did in Game 2?
Rob Neyer (5:16 PM)
Bagwell gets his first hit of series! (Maybe he'll get rid of those goat horns yet.)
tony (columbia, mo)
this park is a joke. beltran flicks a little fly ball to left and it hits halfway up the wall. i am amazed they can find anyone willing to pitch in this place.
Ryan (NYC)
Nice play by Sanders to keep Beltran at 3rd
joel (charleston)
Marquis, a STRONG ground pitcher would have made more sense here in Houston IMO
Bart (TN)
So Rob, Buzz, what do you think will happen with Beltran during the offseason?
Buzzmaster (5:18 PM)
I don't think there's any doubt Boras sells him to the highest bidder. But I wouldn't count on that being the Yankees. Someone will watch this postseason and think he'll magically solve their woes.
Jeremy (St. Joe, MO)
Marquis is pitching tomorrow, so I don't think it matters whether it is today or tomorrow.
Buzzmaster (5:19 PM)
The Astros have missed a lot of chances in this series, but is it me, or does it seem like the heart of their order are the ones missing those chances? Berkman comes up empty this time.
Jose (Chicago)
be careful with Kent and take your chances with ensberg
Jeremy (St. Joe, MO)
Is he pitching around Kent?
Tyler McKee (Texas State University)
hitters cout
Marty (Austin)
huge ab for Kent
Buzzmaster (5:20 PM)
The walk loads the bases for Ensberg.
Kevin (Arkansas)
good theory, Jose. But Ensberg's due sooner or later.
Josh (Iraq)
Astros aren't ready for a Series yet, their players are just happy to be here
Grant (St. Louis)
Haren warming up
joel (charleston)
Haren will be coming in in the 4th. Hell do fine too.
Ryan (NYC)
If the Astros want to make this a series they NEED to capitalize here and show everyone that they can bring in runners when it matters
Buzzmaster (5:22 PM)
Houston does it again, leaving three.
Rob Neyer (5:22 PM)
I don't know that working carefully to Kent was the wrong decision, exactly. But in the second half -- when he was healthy -- Ensberg killed the ball. But it worked out, as Suppan got Ensberg on a fly to center and escaped a bases-loaded jam.
Andrew (New York)
That is why it will be the Cards and the Yanks
Dave (Ft. Lauderdale)
the loss of Kline can now potentially be bigger with the La Russa going to the bullpen early
Kevin (Arkansas)
ok, Jose. Maybe I was wrong. Good call.
Josh (Iraq)
They still need Haren going, since Suppan doesn't have his best stuff
Grant (St. Louis)
Is Sup coming to bat this inning?
Buzzmaster (5:24 PM)
Not unless a lot of folks get on.
Ryan (NYC)
Since there is a break in the action, I just wanted to say how great of an idea this is. I find myself enjoying the game alot more being able to watch it yet get insight from many different sources
Buzzmaster (5:25 PM)
Hey, that's what we like to hear Ryan.
Jon (St. Louis)
Although Kline was big in the regular season, i don't know that the loss of Kline is that big in this series. Seems like the combo of King and Calero could work just as well since berkman and beltran are both switch hitters.
Shaun (Jonesboro, AR)
I disagree. The Cards have the deepest bullpen in the league. With King out there it's not as big as it woudl have been last year.
Jose (Chicago)
Kline is not a big deal in this series at all, he's a bad match up against this Houston lineup (all righties save for the switch hitters whom he has bad numbers against)
Tyler (St. Louis)
if St. louis does get to the next round do they replace kline with ankiel?
Grant (St. Louis)
no, ankiel aint coming in...it would be al reyes
Grant (St. Louis)
atleast thats what I thought STL Post collumnist B. Miklasz said...Ankiel is done for the year...
Michael (St. Louis)
Kline could be back later THIS series, not a huge deal
Jose (Chicago)
edmonds bunting...are you kiding
Marty (Austin)
how many houston fans wanted him to get that bunt down
tony (columbia, mo)
i hate it when edmonds does that - try an sneak a bunt down. Hit a double for crying out loud. Don't waste strikes by bunting
Steve (PA)
Clemens has been getting 2 strikes on batter but have not seen him put them away with strikeout, sign of things to come?
Tim (Springfield, MO)
A shame, Jim's lazy fly didn't make it to the wall.
Buzzmaster (5:29 PM)
But it came close, as does everything in Houston.
Ryan (NYC)
Wild pitch right there definately doesn't help
Buzzmaster (5:30 PM)
Is Clemens going to get his first K? 2-2 on Renteria.
Michael (St. Louis)
Honestly, i think Clemens got too much hype before this game. I totally agree he is one of the best pitcheers in the game, but how many people didn't even give the Cards a chance against him today.
Steve (PA)
is it me or is he not getting his splitter over?
Block (Houston)
I'm suprised no one has made a big deal, that this -could- be Clemens last start.
tony (columbia, mo)
edgar up in clutch sit. no one I'd rather have hitting here. Well maybe Pujols. Seaking of Renteria Rob what are you hearing will st. Louis re-sign him or will he be too expensive and who wants him?
Tim (Springfield, MO)
How many pitches do you think Clemens can throw today?
Brent (Manchester, NH)
Tony, Boston might be interested in him I heard
Ryan (NYC)
HUGE K
Tyler McKee (Texas State University)
there it is K #1
Jose (Chicago)
Yeah, real "clutch."
T.J. (Memphis)
I totally agree, Michael. Clemens is great, but he is also a complete media darling. He has fueled this season with reputation and intimidation more than "stuff." I have to admit i cracked a smile when he got his rear end handed to him in the All-Star game. The only thing funnier was listening to the commentators scramble to make up excuses for him.
Mike (IL)
Looks like LaRussa went with Reggie instead of Cedeno. I agree--aint broke don't fix it.
Josh (Iraq)
Sanders or Cedeno...I guess we'll see here
Buzzmaster (5:35 PM)
I know he had his moments, but does anyone ever really want to see Roger Cedeno in the lineup?
Buzzmaster (5:36 PM)
Um, was that what it looked like?
Block (Houston)
haha nice location
Tim (Springfield, MO)
What is Clemens trying to do? I hope reggie jacks one.
Mike (IL)
I'm just glad that wasn't Piazza.
Mike (IL)
If Manny was up they'd be brawling right now.
matt (herrin, il)
Cards are doing a good job of running up the pitch count.
Buzzmaster (5:39 PM)
How far does he go?
Dustin (Houston)
110 to 120. He is throwing woth an extra day's rest. Although Garner will probably get nervous and pull him with two outs in the fifth.
Block (Houston)
I'd say the max will be around 120 or so. Depending on the score. Lidge will pitch today.
matt (herrin, il)
Get to the bullpen before it's time for Lidge
Angelo (Puerto Rico)
Five innings for Clemens today.. at most.
Michael (St. Louis)
If he continues like this i don't see a seventh inning with clemens in it
roger (stl)
IMO Backe and Munro looked at least as effective as Clemens.
Ryan (NYC)
Logic would dictate probably 100 plus pitches, but Garner has been anything but logical this entire post-season so don't be shocked if you see Clemens getting handshakes at the end of this inning
Brent (Manchester, NH)
Everyone's afraid of Lidge but he hasn't pitched in how many days? I'm not sure he'll necessarily be on his game
Buzzmaster (5:42 PM)
Matheny fans to end it, wonder if they would have pinch hit for Suppan?
tony (columbia, mo)
well that sucked way to go Mike Matheny
Jose (Chicago)
Honestly, did anyone really see Matheny getting a hit in that situation?
Mayer (Jerusalem, Israel)
Way to stay in there, Matheny
roger (stl)
Clemens pitch count=74
Rob Neyer (5:44 PM)
Uh-oh, Astros in trouble. Clemens (and Astros) still ahead 3-2, but he's thrown 74 in four innings. At that rate, he'll throw 110 through six innings, and he'll probably have to come out of the game. But I don't think he'll make it even that long. He's dropping his arm, and throwing 30 pitches in the fourth might cause an earlier exit. If Phil Garner's not creative with his bullpen this time, the Astros will lose this game and, yes, the series.
Devin (Durham, NC)
Rob, bullpen shouldn't be an issue. If the offense stops gidp to kill innings or starts hitting with 2 outs they wouldn't have to protect a tight lead
steve (san francisco)
So how does Garner become "creative" with his bullpen?
Block (Houston)
Using Garner's logic, Munro should be good for an inning or two tonight.
Block (Houston)
I think everyone is afraid of Lidge, because he's pitched 9+ innings vs. the Cards this year and given up a grand total of 1 hit. Miceli gave up more than that in 3 pitches the other night.
Buzzmaster (5:48 PM)
Astros not giving Roger much of a break, as Suppan suddenly breezing.
jon (new jersey)
this looks bad for the astros
Rob Neyer (5:50 PM)
Wow, just awful, awful hitting by Vizcaino and Ausmus. If they were going to make outs, at least they could have used up a few pitches to give their pitcher a rest. Sheesh.
Kevin (Arkansas)
If Suppan is suddenly moving people down, do you still take him out?
roger (stl)
Suppan's pitch count at 65. he should be able to get through that line up one more time. then go to bull pen for an inning then Izzy time.
Rob Neyer (5:52 PM)
On Fox, Astros pitching coach Jim Hickey just said he's not particularly concerned about Rocket's pitch count. I say he doesn't pitch past the sixth inning.
Dave (Ft. Lauderdale)
Leaving Suppan in is the right move beacuse the Cards are going to score more than 2 runs during the game, if they don't, they do not deserve to win
Kevin (Arkansas)
Rocket for six, then Lidge for three: who soesn't see Garner trying this one?
Angelo (Puerto Rico)
It seems that Clemens is getting better with more pitchs.
Bart (TN)
Quick 1-2-3 5th for Clemens
steve (san francisco)
That's more like it.
Block (Houston)
On the local pregame, Mark Berman reported that Garner said he would bring Lidge in for the 7th with the Astros leading.
Josh (Iraq)
Suppan will get tested this inning
Mike (St. Louis)
Nice quick out on Biggio.
Angelo (Puerto Rico)
yes... Bonds, I mean Beltran is going to bat.
Tony (Mayaguez, Puerto Rico)
Carlos Beltran: The hottest commodity in this year's free agent pool
roger (stl)
Buzz, who would you rather have in your line up, Beltran or Pujols?
Buzzmaster (6:01 PM)
Hey, I love Beltran's power and speed, but that's not even close. Pujols by a mile.
Buzzmaster (6:01 PM)
Which is easier to say right after Beltran strikes out. Two outs for Suppan, suddenly very effective.
Kevin (Tulsa)
If Suppan gets Bagwell here and the Cards have Pujols, Rolen, and Edmonds to bat in the 6th, it will feel like they've claimed a small amount of momentum
Buzzmaster (6:02 PM)
We have ourselves a pitcher's duel all of a sudden.
Mike (St. Louis)
Suppan was reallly impressive there
Peter (Frisco, TX)
I think both pitchers are starting to loosen up and pitch more effectively...now the heart of the order comes up for the Cards
Rob Neyer (6:03 PM)
Yet another good inning for Suppan. Do you realize he's making only a million bucks this season? That's a lot less than he used to make with the Royals, and believe it or not he might have been a better pitcher then (it's not obvious because Kansas City's ballpark was killer on pitchers). But the Cardinals have already gotten great value for their money in Suppan.
Kevin (Arkansas)
Suppan+Cards bullpen vs. Rocket+Lidge... this should get real good.
Tim (Springfield, MO)
This is a big inning for the cards, we could get clemens out now with a big inning.
Tony (columbia, mo)
that was close albert gotta fight that off. got lucky that he wasn't rung up there
Kevin (Arkansas)
Suppan wasn't even the best deal the Cards got this season, Rob. Chris Carpenter only made $500,000 this year and he was 4th in ERA this season.
Buzzmaster (6:07 PM)
Wow, that was vintage Clemens. Tremendous AB.
Bart (TN)
Nice whiff by Pujols there
Block (Houston)
Big strikeout for Clemens. Great pitch location throughout
Rob Neyer (6:08 PM)
You know, if Clemens can get past the middle of the order without getting rocked, here in the sixth, Garner might be tempted to send him out there again for the seventh. I wouldn't do it, though. Considering how many pitches he threw in the fifth and the likelihood that he'll be stressed by Pujols-Rolen-Edmonds, I'd bring in Miceli to get the bottom of the order in the seventh, and then get Lidge for the eighth and ninth.
Steve (PA)
I dont know, could it have been the extra days rest to get Clemens back on track? The first few innings have been struggle but ever since, he's been pretty darn good.
Rob Neyer (6:09 PM)
Crowd's all over the ump this inning, but his calls have been good ones. . . Rolen walks, and Edmonds comes up as the key batter in the game (so far).
Block (Houston)
Miceli? Rob, I don't even know you anymore.
Buzzmaster (6:10 PM)
Come on, Miceli's numbers aren't that bad. He just made a couple of mistakes at the wrong time.
Kevin (Tulsa)
Miceli? The same one who got rocked in Game 2? Wheeler was definitely looking more effective.
Tony (columbia, mo)
Rob did you actually just advocate bringing in Miceli? No way. Gotta go with Wheeler, hes the only one down there getting anyone out...before giving up a dong that is.
Buzzmaster (6:11 PM)
If you're gonna hit 100 pitches in the sixth, you might as well do it with a K
Devin (Durham, NC)
Miceli pitches well in meaningless situations. Anytime else it's gasoline on the fire.
Rob Neyer (6:11 PM)
Point taken, guys. I don't know the bullpen well enough, but with luck it won't matter all that much because the bottom of the order will be (relatively) easy pickings.
Kevin (Tulsa)
BIG strikeouts of Pujols and Edmonds sanwiched around the walk of Rolen. Now it's ALL up to Renteria.
Buzzmaster (6:12 PM)
Renteria doing his best Jeff Bagwell/Kevin Millar impersonation.
Devin (Durham, NC)
Berkman had us all holding our breath there
Grant (St. Louis)
this is a test, none of my last 30 messages have appeared in the chat
Buzzmaster (6:13 PM)
That's because they've all been the same post, Grant.
Rob Neyer (6:14 PM)
So that's 102 pitches for Clemens. I'm going to take a poll . . . Does anybody out there think he should come out for the seventh?
Buzzmaster (6:15 PM)
Buzz votes no.
Kevin (Arkansas)
Stick a fork in him cuz he is done for today.
jon (new jersey)
i dont, only because im rooting for the cardinals!
Josh (Iraq)
he's been effective...clemens at 102 is still better than most of the stros' bullpen
Block (Houston)
Unless it's a 5+ run lead, he has to pitch the 7th.
Devin (Durham, NC)
Rob, better question, does Garner have the guts to replace him if Clemens says he can go another?
alex (seattle)
I do, a tiring clemens probably still more effective than their bullpen
roger (stl)
I would go with Clemens rather than have anyone (besides Lidge) from the bull pen come in. and have Lidge enter in the eighth.
Tony (Mayaguez, Puerto Rico)
considering the "easy" inning he had, I would bring him in for one batter at the time
Ryan (Chapel Hill, NC)
I think they should absolutely keep him in the game. He'll be fine.
Kevin (Tulsa)
I could see Clemens face Sanders and Matheny and then the Cards pinch-hit for Suppan with Cedeno and the Astros would take Clemens out - for some odd reason Cedeno has an awesome average against Clemens
steve (san francisco)
Man, lets give the TV color guys some credit. They keep making some good points.
Buzzmaster (6:19 PM)
How impressive is Suppan's recovery?
Block (Houston)
I haven't seen Scooter yet today... That is a positive. Or that webmd thing showing me where someone's foot is located.
Buzzmaster (6:20 PM)
Sad news, Scooter drowned at Fenway last night.
Scott (IL)
Suppan has pitch brilliantly since the first.
Marty (Austin)
I must admit he's really hitting spots right now, he's not throwing anyting over the middle of the plate
roger (stl)
Not surprising, really Buzz....the Card's starters have suffered from poor 1st inning performances all year.
Jeremy (St. Joe, MO)
Another question? Does Suppan come out for the 7th?
Buzzmaster (6:21 PM)
They have to pinch hit for him, don't they?
Marty (Austin)
would you bunt with him if matheney got on though?
Jose (Chicago)
Suppan did his job. Can't ask for more from his performance today. Its up to the pen now.
Buzzmaster (6:23 PM)
And it's Clemens on the mound for the 7th.
roger (stl)
Reaching into the Cardinal's bullpen is NOT a bad thing. Remember, it's houston that has given BULLPEN a bad name.
Grant (St. Louis)
reggie strikes out...
Marty (Austin)
that splitter is looking filthy right now
Buzzmaster (6:25 PM)
All right, who jinxed us with the WebMD comment?
Rob Neyer (6:25 PM)
Well, obviously I disagree with this decision. But after one batter, so far so good. And it's the bottom of the order, which certainly helps...
Dustin (Houston)
Clemens looks better the longer he keeps going.
Devin (Durham, NC)
wow, so webMD tells us the left index finger is somewhere on the left arm? advanced stuff there.
Tim (Springfield, MO)
wouldn't it be great irony if Lidge blew the game?
Grant (St. Louis)
matheny is battling
Josh (Iraq)
Clemens' last batter?
Kevin (Tulsa)
And just as I said here's Roger Cedeno - 10 career hits off of Clemens with 7 of them doubles I think I just heard on KMOX
Buzzmaster (6:29 PM)
Nasty. Nothing but nasty. Clemens looked tremendous. But does this inning make it tough to bring him back on short rest?
Tyler McKee (Texas State University)
Clutch thats all i got to say CLUTCH!!!
Angelo (Puerto Rico)
no second guessing for Garner yet.
Block (Houston)
1 more inning.. He's got it in him... :D
Tim (Springfield, MO)
I think that may have been the worst AB i've ever seen in my life from cedeno.
Buzzmaster (6:29 PM)
And that's saying something.
Ty (Memphis)
Yeah, you can't keep running a guy out there on short rest, even if it IS Roger Clemens.
Shane (St Louis)
So when do they cut away and start televising the Yankees batting practice session?
Buzzmaster (6:33 PM)
Haren takes over for Suppan.
Buzzmaster (6:35 PM)
Oh good, a Fox Update next ... for that game that isn't going on yet ...
Jeremy (St. Joe, MO)
Haren has the look on his face like he has been in this situation many times before.
Kevin (Tulsa)
Womack, Walker, and Pujols likely against Lidge in the 8th. Womack should take the first two pitches at least since Lidge has had a WAY longer lay-off than usual
Ty (Memphis)
I have watched Haren pitch for the Redbirds here in Memphis. He has the stuff to become a solid rotation guy for the Cards next year.
Chris (Seattle)
Womack isn't exactly known for taking pitches...
Buzzmaster (6:38 PM)
Palmeiro comes through with the pinch hit.
Devin (Durham, NC)
I was about to write something derisive about Palmeiro, but he actually got a hit
Buzzmaster (6:38 PM)
Yeah, ruined the moment, didn't it?
Edward (Houston)
Hey Guys. We're talkin' about Phil Garner here, don't be all so sure Brad Lidge is gonna be in teh 8th. You never know we could see Qualls, Dan M., or maybe even Raul Chavez pitching.
Buzzmaster (6:40 PM)
Cards get out of the 7th and it's finally time for Brad Lidge ...
Rob Neyer (6:40 PM)
Okay, the bottoms of the orders are out of the way, so now things get really interesting. One way or another, this game will be decided in the next 30 minutes.
Kevin (Tulsa)
Haren gets Biggio - Now, here's the game - Lidge against the heart of the order in the 8th.We'll have to see what the longer than usual lay-off did.
Tony (Mayaguez, Puerto Rico)
Standing Ovation for the Rocketman, please!!!!!!
Scott (IL)
Here we go! Big inning... Lidge vs. Womack, Walker and Pujols!
Ty (Memphis)
I am making the prediction - Lidge blows the save.
Tony (columbia, mo)
Jeez all this talk about lidge you'd think he was the NL verison of Riveria
Marty (Austin)
doesn't this lidge thing feel like when your friend keeps telling you to go see some movie and the when you finally see it it's some big disapointment
Buzzmaster (6:44 PM)
He can't afford Womack reaching with the rest of this lineup, but Tony is battling.
Devin (Durham, NC)
why would you throw a breaking ball inside to a slap hitter?
Buzzmaster (6:44 PM)
One down, here comes Walker.
Kevin (Tulsa)
If Womack hits some good line drives (despite getting out) makes you wonder what the big boys could do.
Edward (Houston)
Sorry Larry, but I smell a K.
Buzzmaster (6:46 PM)
And that's why everyone has been talking about Lidge ...
Grover (Austin)
Here's the real test, Pujols...
Baron (Houston)
Lidge is filthy..PERIOD
Chris (St Louis)
Lidge is nasty....I will give him that but the Cardinal batters have not been real selective today
Buzzmaster (6:47 PM)
Huh? Then how did Roger's pitch count get that high?
Jose (Chicago)
what? did lidge give up a hit? I can't believe it.
roger (stl)
Nice throw to second!
Devin (Durham, NC)
replacing Biggio was key
Buzzmaster (6:48 PM)
Nice throw from Palmeiro ... did Garner do something right putting him in for Biggio?
Block (Houston)
Wow... the astros made a good defensive play! Oh wait.. That's not a starter out there.
Buzzmaster (6:49 PM)
So can we agree this guy is pretty good? Going to the bottom of the 8th.
Grover (Austin)
id give lidge an A+
Angelo (Puerto Rico)
that guy (Lidge) is amazing.
Chuck (Houston)
Nice pitching by Lidge. We could have used him in St Louis.
Kevin (Tulsa)
Walker and Rolen looked weak against Lidge. Geez, Tony Womack looked better against him than them!
Rob Neyer (6:50 PM)
Gee, you think Garner should have used Lidge in one of the earlier games in this series? Oh well, maybe he's learned his lesson.
Grant (St. Louis)
lidge is worth all the hype he gets...no let down with him
mcee0854 (wtby ct)
hes no Mo Riveara
Buzzmaster (6:51 PM)
Good to see the Yankees fans arriving early in The Show.
Mayer (Jerusalem, Israel)
I love how every yankee fan spells his name differently
Buzzmaster (6:52 PM)
Scott Boras is the happiest man in America right now. Beltran goes deep again.
Devin (Durham, NC)
what a tremendous half-season rental
Marty (Austin)
How much money has this guy made himself this October
Craig (Austin)
If the Astros sweep all 3 games in Houston then I start Munro on Wednesday, then Clemens on Thurs will full rest wth Oswalt and Lidge in relief.
Buzzmaster (6:54 PM)
You might be getting a little ahead of yourself, but it's an interesting thought.
Kevin (Tulsa)
That HR just made this game a TON less interesting! :) At least if it had remained a 1-run game you'd wonder if an Edmonds or somebody could touch one off of Lidge....Now, there's basically no hope.
Steve (Seattle)
This game should give Houston a ton of momentum heading into tomorrow. Oswalt can look at this and thing, "You know what? This lineup can be contained."
Bryce (New Orleans)
St Louis needed to bring in Isringhausen and try and steal this one. Now it's over with a 2 run game
Buzzmaster (6:58 PM)
Let the second-guessing begin!
steve (san francisco)
As an Astros fan, I'd appreciate all of you not jinxing THIS game. It's only 2 runs, after all.
Chris (St Louis)
No way do you bring in Izzy with the best bullpen in the league down there and up 2-0 in the series.
Tim (Springfield, MO)
Izzy has been kinda shaky lately.
Mike ((Dayton, OH))
Hindsight is always 20/20. Ussing Izzy down a run would have been dumb.
Buzzmaster (7:00 PM)
Berkman homers, 5-2 Astros.
Ty (Memphis)
This game is so over.
Rob Neyer (7:00 PM)
Just putting Beltran into some sort of perspective . . . As you've no doubt heard, Beltran's now got seven home runs in this postseason alone. Jeff Bagwell and Craig Biggio have two postseason home runs in their combined career (both of them Bagwell, both in the Division Series last week).
Devin (Durham, NC)
2 righthanded HR for Berkman? wow
Tim (Springfield, MO)
That ball was out in like .05 seconds
Edward (Houston)
I'd say give Lidge some rest now. But there's no one to take the ball from him.
Chris (St Louis)
Wheeler has pitched well...they could use him in the 9th but if he did that Garner might not live to see tomorrows game
Ryan (Chapel Hill, NC)
Let's not get crazy now. Leave Lidge in.
Block (Houston)
Lidge can rest after 3 more outs.
David (Seattle)
After facing walker-pujols-rolen last inning with a 1-run lead...the 9th inning WILL be a rest for Lidge
Nick (Atlanta)
How many more times we going to have to suffer through this Richard Branson show comercial
Buzzmaster (7:05 PM)
Many, many times.
steve (san francisco)
Anyone who knows the playoff history of the Astros knows this game isn't over. God, I'm starting to sound like an angst-ridden Sox fan.
Buzzmaster (7:05 PM)
Eldred takes over for King with two outs.
Brent (Manchester, NH)
Chances of a St. Louis comeback?
Nick (Atlanta)
Cal Eldred seems like he has been around forever
Buzzmaster (7:07 PM)
Ensberg walks and the Cards just can't get out of the 8th.
Rob Neyer (7:08 PM)
This barrage of home runs seems inevitable, I suppose, considering the hitteres and the ballpark. But the Astros' home wasn't particularly hitter-friendly during the regular season, and in 2002-2003 it was in the middle of the pack in terms of home runs. So if you're going to blame anything, blame bad pitches.
Troy (Manteca, CA)
I hope Lidge didn't get cold in the long inning on the bench
Chris (St Louis)
Sorry...but I am a realist...game over.
Rob Neyer (7:11 PM)
Hey, here's a radical idea . . . How about taking Lidge out of the game, right now? The Astros have a three-run lead, and the Cardinals' big boppers batted in the eighth. Let's put it this way: I'd bump Lidge for Wheeler or Miceli rather than have him be limited to only one inning tomorrow. But if you're not worried about him being able to pitch two innings again, then of course you let him finish this one.It's academic, of course; there's not a manager in the majors who would even consider taking Lidge out here.
MCEE0854 (Waterbury CT)
Rob Neyerso are you sitting to your guns that Bo-sox only have a 19% chance of going to W.S
Chris (St Louis)
I do want to see if Lidge pitches any different with the extra runs.
Tim (Springfield, MO)
Astros must be pretty confident they are gonna win takin out jeff kent for eric bruntlett.
Buzzmaster (7:12 PM)
They're probably more confident with Kent's glove nowhere near the field.
Rob Neyer (7:12 PM)
You should have read the whole article, Waterbury CT. It's less than 19 percent, because Schilling's out. I'd give them roughly a 15-percent chance of reaching the Serious.
Ty (Memphis)
Micelli? No way. If Garner puts Micelli in, Drayton McLane should walk down to the dugout and fire Phil Garner on the spot.
Buzzmaster (7:14 PM)
Leadoff walk, always painful to see.
Tim (Springfield, MO)
All blown games begin with a lead off walk.
Baron (Houston)
why would you throw a 3-2 slider up 3?..who's managing here? Mark Wohlers?
Rob Neyer (7:14 PM)
Lidge walks Edmonds. I don't think it's going to make a difference in this game, but every extra pitch has the potential to weaken Lidge in Game 4. Something to think about, even if the Astros win.
Kevin (Tulsa)
Lidge - allows a baserunner in both innings - good to gain some confidence for upcoming games (this one's over)
Rob Neyer (7:15 PM)
Dave Campbell just noted that Lidge doesn't really have his good slider today.
Buzzmaster (7:16 PM)
Just a rough night for Renteria, Ks this time.
Alex (Indianapolis)
Ooooh, a nasty pitch by Lidge there!
Alex (San Marcos)
the worst strike call ever
Rob Neyer (7:16 PM)
Campbell: "He's throwing hanging sliders..." But they were good enough to fool Renteria.
Devin (Durham, NC)
that's a strike by the book...but not by the zone they usually call
Dave (Ft. Lauderdale)
lidge has a 97 mph fastball, why is he throwing offspeed
Baron (Houston)
THROW THE FASTBALL!!!!
Buzzmaster (7:18 PM)
One out to go, Lidge getting it done.
Block (Houston)
Ahem... They are not looking good against those pitches.
Brent (Manchester, NH)
Everybody knows about his fastball, they'd just sit on it if he didn't throw other pitches
Ty (Memphis)
Everyone in the ballpark knows he throws the breaking ball when he has a bigger lead!!!! Everyone except the Cardinals hitters!
Rob Neyer (7:19 PM)
I've never seen Lidge pitch like this before. As you know if you've seen him, typically he throws these veering sliders that end up nowhere near the strike zone. But now he's throwing them right down the middle, and the Cardinals are befuddled.
Kevin (Tulsa)
4 Ks in 1.2 IP so far for Lidge....Has thrown a LOT of pitches though so it would be interesting to see how he'd do tomorrow if they needed him then as well.
Jose (Brooklyn)
One more out!
Buzzmaster (7:20 PM)
Tying run comes to the plate after the HBP.
Jon (Belmont, MA)
Game not over yet boys and girls.
Wes (Virginia Beach)
Geez, that's the worst thing you could have done
Kevin (Tulsa)
40th pitch for Lidge AND the tying run comes to the plate - John Mabry...I've wanted him to pinch-hit this ENTIRE postseason
Buzzmaster (7:22 PM)
Down he goes, and we've still got a series. Astros win 5-2.
Kevin (Tulsa)
Lidge has been ahead in the count on all but one of the batters he faced and ended up striking out FIVE!
steve (san francisco)
I say start Lidge in game 4. Then start Brad L. in game 5. And, if necessary, start B. Lidge in game 7.
roger (stl)
that slider is ridiculous
Wes (Virginia Beach)
Nice job, but I think we're all concerned about the pitch count
Jon (Belmont, MA)
Got 'em, Lidge pitched enough for a 1/2 games worth....
Kelvin (Christchurch (NZ))
Even though the Cards lost they made Lidge work (41 pitches), limiting him for tomorrow.
Kevin (Tulsa)
Well, he DID still find a way to make it exciting bringing the tying run up to the plate, but other than Albert nobody could really come close to getting a hit off of him
Buzzmaster (7:25 PM)
It'll be Oswalt vs. Marquis in Game 4 on Sunday afternoon.
Ryan (Chapel Hill, NC)
Lidge is young, and he hasn't had much work lately. The pitch count isn't *that* big a deal.
Kevin (Tulsa)
If you go back to the regular season Lidge now has 11.2 scoreless innings on the year against the Cards
Buzzmaster (7:26 PM)
And in case you missed the subtle mentions on TV, the Sox and Yankees are up next ...
Steve (PA)
I really credit Clemens in this one, he didn't have his "A" stuff but he pitched with what he had and got the biggest win for the 'Stros all year
Chuck (Houston)
How do you see game 4 Buzzmaster?
Rob Neyer (7:28 PM)
Lidge wound up throwing 41 pitches, and I don't think he can pitch two inninsg again tomorrow. So here's my prediction: if Oswalt doesn't last seven innings tomorrow, the Astros lose the game and, eventually, the series. If Oswalt does go deep into the game, the Astros have a real shot at winning the game. And if they win Game 4, all of a sudden they are, if certainly not favorites to win the series, at least they're back in the hunt.By the way, fantastic game for Clemens, considering the competition. But considering how he labored today, when rested, how will he fare in Game 6 on short rest? That might be the biggest question of NLCS.Thanks for hanging around today, and I'll be doing this again Monday.
Buzzmaster (7:28 PM)
I'm still concerned about Houston's inability to drive in runs. All the solo HRs were big tonight, but they've got to take advatange with RISP against Marquis.
Rob (Cleveland)
Why does everyone think the Cards are a lock to win it all? They have NO pitching. You cannot win the World Series with a softball team.
Buzzmaster (7:31 PM)
Thanks to Rob for the NLCS analysis. Buster Olney will be here with inning-by-inning updates for the ALCS.
Buzzmaster (7:34 PM)
Speaking of which, let's shift the attention over to that ALCS battle at Fenway.
Matt (Plattsburgh,NY)
You heard it here first, Kevin Brown will not make it past the 3rd inning.
Nick (Toronto)
Boston always seems to step up at home. I think they'll take 2 out of 3 during their Fenway stay, but it won't matter as the Yankees take Game 6 in New York. They're just cursed. It's all karma baby!
Steve (PA)
This is going to be interesting. Arroyo has an over 5 era at home and his avg against is 70 points higher than the road. This doesn't bode well but he is 4-0 against the Yanks this year. How is the cold weather going to hurt Brown's back? Anyone who doesn't think this guy is a gamer is fooling themselves
Buzzmaster (7:40 PM)
It does seem like Red Sox Nation is putting a lot of faith in Arroyo's wins, without paying much attention to his other numbers
Ben (OH)
This will be a mirror game like the st louis/houston series...each will loose two out of three on the road and the Yankees and Cards will win in 6. Y/C in WS.
Scott (Schenectady(NY))
but buzzmaster, what else choice do we have when we are down 2-0, COME ON!
Buzzmaster (7:41 PM)
Hey, I'm with you Scott. It's just a big leap of faith.
Joe (NJ)
Seems like the first inning is important to set the tone. Yankees need to put some doubt in Arroyo's mind, for the Sox Johnny Damon needs to get on base.
Kelly (Tewksbury, MA)
Do you think it's a good idea batting Bellhorn second when he strikes out so much?
Buzzmaster (7:43 PM)
Mueller apparently doesn't like that spot, so maybe Cabrera could go there, but it's almost as if Bellhorn lands it by default.
Matt (Plattsburgh, NY)
Buzz, the Red Sox are 10-0 in his last 10 starts. Numers can be spun in any direction. That said numbers no matter how you spin them dont matter. Look at John effin Lieber. Who wouldve thought he was gonna do what he did. And look at the Red Sox offense. Numbers mean squat.
Scott (Schenectady NY)
I dont see why they would change the batting order now, the only change I would make would be putting Dougy into the lineup for Millar, sicne that is all he does is SWING FOR THE FENCES!
Steve (Seattle)
Yes, it's a very good idea. His OBP is out of this world when compared to his batting average. He sets the tone very well and is a good compliment to leadoff hitter Johnny Damon.
Steve (PA)
I know you Red Sox fans hate to hear this, but Jeter is not hot yet hitting below .200 in the series and he usually sets the tone for the line-up
Steve (Seattle)
It's not really that Bellhorn strikes out so much... I mean, you could look at it and say that he flys and grounds out a lot less than other people. Striking out is just his way of getting out, when he makes contact it's usually a hit.
Kelvin (Christchurch, NZ)
The key will be whether Brown can throw strikes early in the count. If the Sox hitters get in 0-1 and 0-2 counts they'll struggle to hit the ball - just like in the 1st 2 games. And "Brandon" Arroyo must give them a good outing.
Urooj (Toronto)
Kelvin, are you related to Tim McCarver? It's BRONSON Arroyo!
Buzzmaster (7:47 PM)
Easy there, I think Kelvin was making a joke with "Brandon". Lighten up, Canada.
Kevin (Virginia)
Bellhorn bats 2 because of his willingness to take pitches, which is why he strikes out and walks a lot. This also allows Damon to run when he wants.
Buzzmaster (7:48 PM)
Damon ran 27 times this season, that one doesn't exactly hold water.
Chuck (Washington DC)
Yeah, but flyouts and groundouts can advance runners. That can be productive. Strikeouts go against that. But Bellhorn is known to walk every once in a while
Tom (New York)
Bellhorn is an okay #2 hitter vs. crappy staffs like the DRays, who can't throw strikes. He's useless vs. the Yanks staff. Mueller should be in the 2 hole vs. this team.
Rich (ME)
Damon and Bellhorn are a good top-of-the-lineup combo. But it would be nice if some of Bellhorn's strikeouts were sac flies.
Buzzmaster (7:50 PM)
Who knew Mark Bellhorn would be the night's first hot-button issue?
Chuck (Washington DC)
If Mueller isn't comfortable there, then he shouldn't be there. Bottom Line. You put guys where they believe they can produce
Rob Neyer (7:51 PM)
Evidence, Tom? Just a shred, please?
Urooj (Toronto)
The only thing Bellhorn does is walk or strikeout, that's why he bats second in the order, he's usually on base for the big boppers (Ortiz and Manny)
Rob (NY)
National Anthem almost as bad as Roseanne's version. My ears are bleeding
Erik (Aviano, Italy)
It does not matter who you have batting 1 and 2. if they do not work the count and get on base, they are worthless
Buzzmaster (8:02 PM)
And that's the real point, Erik. The Sox need people on base, no matter where in the order it comes from.
Kevin (Haymarket, VA)
Arroyo 5.25 ERA verses the Yankees in 4 starts and 0 decisions. Who cares about 10 consecutive wins.
Erik (Aviano, Italy)
I am a Red Sox fan, but what can you do when the NY pitchers only have to throw 12 pitches in an inning?
Buzzmaster (8:06 PM)
I'm sorry, did they just play Bon Jovi?
Buster Olney (8:07 PM)
Hey, folks, checking in from Fenway Park; can't wait, after 48 hours off in this series. Couple of things to watch for early in the game -- Brown is a different kind of pitcher than Mussina or Lieber, who pitched precisely against the Red Sox in Games 1 and 2. Brown tends to throw hard-harder-hardest, and I wonder if he'll be able to exploit the weaknesses of the Red Sox hitters in the same way -- down and in to Damon, inside to Ramirez, down and away to Kevin Millar. Watch his velocity early, too; if he's 90-91, he could be vulnerable. In the past, Brown was 94-95 mph, along with that nasty movement. Before the game tonight, Yankees GM Brian Cashman said he had no idea what to expect out of Brown tonight. And as for Bronson Arroyo -- scouts say that a disciplined team, like the Yankees, should really lay off his off-speed stuff and force him to throw the ball over the plate, something he sometimes has problems doing. Should be an interesting matchup...
Chuck (Washington DC)
You noticed that too, huh?
Joe (Latham NY)
yes...boston is living on a prayer
Greg (NH)
Fox continues to play the soundtrack from 1985...always a great choice.
Buzzmaster (8:09 PM)
Hey, thanks to Buster Olney for giving us the inside scoop tonight. He'll be with us the whole night!
Tom (New York)
I never would have predicted as a yankee fan that I'd have a Kevin Brown vs. Arroyo matchup in the post....and I'd be very worried. Strange world.
angelo (hong kong)
playoffs are different . has he ever pitched a playoff game? and this is do or DIE!!!
Buzzmaster (8:10 PM)
And here we go
Matt (Plattsburgh,NY)
Lets Go SOX!!!
Rob (NY)
If my heart explodes tell my wife I love her..
Buzzmaster (8:12 PM)
Jeter fights off the 3-2, would be huge to get him out of the way early.
Nick (Atlanta)
Good pitch Jeter barely got it
Buzzmaster (8:12 PM)
Or a leadoff walk, not what Sox fans wanted to see.
Frankie (NY)
Arroyo is pitching way inside...he is going to get burned...
Devin (Durham, NC)
that looks like a batting practice fastball
Steve (PA)
He hasn't been getting FB over so far, just his breaking balls
Eric (Louisville)
so, bad omens don't really mean anything, right?
Angelo (Puerto Rico)
He's throwing inside all the time... It seems that we're gonna see a HBP today.
Jon (Houston)
Buzzmaster, what's up with the "Day-O" chant that is running rampant in ballparks across the country? Is this not the dumbest rallying cry of all-time? I think it should be out-lawed and those who use it should be flogged in public. Am I way off on this one?
Buzzmaster (8:15 PM)
It's good to have strong opinions, Jon.
Buzzmaster (8:15 PM)
Arroyo isn't making it look easy so far
Buzzmaster (8:16 PM)
Wow, talk about the worst possible start for the Sox. A-Rod doubles in Jeter.
Rob (NY)
YEEEEEE-Haaaaah
Tom (Long Island, NY)
Is it just me or is Fenway eerily quiet?
Greg (NH)
Shoot me
Kelly (Tewksbury, MA)
Could Cabrera throw to home any softer?
Buzzmaster (8:17 PM)
Manny didn't give him much to work with.
Steve (PA)
He's gotta get ahead of these guys, they are sitting on his fastball when he gets behind
angelo (hong kong)
here we go...................the pressure is getting to him already. too many breaking balls
Frankie (NY)
How about the best start for the Yankees? Set the tone early, give Brown some breathing room...
Buster Olney (8:18 PM)
Top of the first: Scout I talked to today said that among all the great hitters, A-Rod guesses the most -- guesses the type of pitch, and the location, and in his at-bat, it was clear he was sitting breaking ball, on 2-0 and then on 3-2. Yankees up a run, Arroyo's already thrown 13 pitches after two batters.
Claire (Saline, MI/New Ulm, MN)
I just think these Sox can't cut it against these Yanks. Maybe Boston's bats will answer, but it seems like they're always digging themselves a hole that sometimes they can't get out of. Do they ever want to lead a game for once?
Buzzmaster (8:20 PM)
Matsui homers, 3-0 Yankees.
Buster Olney (8:22 PM)
Top of the first: I am shocked they pitched to Matsui. The guy is killing them, they've got a righty to lefty matchup, Bernie on deck and a double-play possibility. Matsui is the hottest guy the Yankees have right now; absolutely nuts...
Frankie (NY)
You could hear a pin drop at Fenway...
Bronx_in_Bama (Montgomery, AL)
YANKS!!! Better believe it, Yanks are going to need every one of these!! Go Yankees!!
Annette (Bronx, NY)
Matsui owns Boston pitching. There's no scenario I enjoy more than quieting 35,000 Bostonians.
matt (toms river,nj)
anyone else think that should the yankees win the alcs, matsui could be the mvp? what a great couple of performances by him.
Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)
20+ pitches for only 1 out. The bullpen could possibly be working early tonight.
Stephen (KY)
i think that arroyo got too excited before the game and its caused him to miss with too many pitches
Buzzmaster (8:23 PM)
How about Arroyo is just a mediocre pitcher who had a fluke win streak?
Eric (Canton, NY)
The one thing the Sox need to do is stop pressing at the plate and Arroyo isn't letting that happen. I hate to say it but this could be the series.
Kevin (Virginia)
Did anyone improve more from last year to this year more than Matsui? .287/.353/.435 to .298/.390/.522
Jay (West Texas)
Look at Arroyo's career- how could anyone expect a lot from this guy?
chriscr123 (Scottsdale)
He has had some good outings, but he is just in over his head right now..
Devin (Durham, NC)
Arroyo is no Pete Munro!
Kelly (Tewksbury, MA)
how about arroyo is a young pitcher who hasn't been in this situation before and he's having a tough time dealing with it?
Buzzmaster (8:25 PM)
I don't know, the guy is 27. He's been around the game.
Buster Olney (8:26 PM)
Middle of the first: The toll on Arroyo -- three runs, 31 pitches, 10 foul balls, just two batters swinging and missing, three throws to first.
Buzzmaster (8:26 PM)
Well, awful start for the Sox, but did anyone think they'd win scoring less than three runs, anyway? It's going to be up to their bats.
Sapien (San Jose)
Boy! They needed the DP
Joe (NJ)
Like I said, the 1st inning was gonna set the tone, let's see what Brown can do in the bottom of the1st.
Dave (Anaheim)
Yeah - Easy guys....... He's hasn't been in THIS situation. If he gets roped and is out by the third, pile on. But give him a chance....
Nick (Flint, MI)
Been around the game and Yanks-Sox playoff series is way different
Keith (Philly)
I will now dig my eyes out with a spoon and hurl myself off a bridge into oncoming traffic. Go Patriots!
Sal (Boston MA)
There's no curse; the Yankees have just always known how to play postseason baseball. These Sox are the same as always, tightening up in big situations. As the sports guy says, I will now peel the skin off my body.
Jared (Brookline, MA)
Here we go Red Sox. Time to get right back into it. Leadoff single by Damon, walk by Bellhorn, then the big bats to knock them in.
Jarreau (Bronx)
Hey wheres the showgirl?
Buzzmaster (8:29 PM)
The ShowGirl is live from Jillian's in Boston and reports it's very quiet right now.
Joe (Latham NY)
I think Johnny Damon has to set the tone for the Sox
Nick (Flint, MI)
single by Damon would be a miracle at this point
Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)
Well, that was about 15 pitches quicker than Arroyo's out.
Buzzmaster (8:32 PM)
What are the odds Bellhorn strikes out?
Justin ((Scranton, PA))
Whiff!!
Ross (Missoula, Mt)
When was the last time bellhorn actually made contact, he's been terrible
Jeff (Boston)
I am LIVE on the Green Monster watching this chat on my labtop. I am hoping to catch a home run ball here so I will keep you posted if I catch one!
Buzzmaster (8:34 PM)
The Sox may need to worry about fans hurling themselves off the Monster if this keeps up.
Ross (Missoula, Mt)
Yes, i got something posted, finally!
Alex ((DC))
Jeff, drop something heavy on Matusi.
Buzzmaster (8:34 PM)
Manny beats it out ... don't get many chances to say that.
Chuck (Washington DC)
what? Manny running out a ground ball! What?
Frankie (NY)
How about that throw from A-Rod...almost got him...
Asad (NY)
Brown does not have his control.
crash (nashville)
well, well - a base runner before the 7th inning
Buzzmaster (8:37 PM)
Manny with the base-running mistake. Shocking.
Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)
Manny + running = headaches galore
damien (bridgeport)
now there is great baserunning
Asad (NY)
That might've been the stupidest play Manny has made this postseason.
Dan (Malden)
NEVER make the 3rd out at 3rd base.
Daniel (Arlington, VA)
Thank you Dale Sveum
Kevin (Cambridge, MA)
Vintage Manny...
Ross (Missoula, Mt)
I won't blame manny for that, when in doubt blame sveum
Steve (Boston)
Can't blame Manny for that, he knows the offense needs to get going, it was a good throw by Sheff.
Buster Olney (8:39 PM)
Bottom of the first: Right out of the gate, Brown had good movement on his sinker, running it back over the inside corner to get strike 2 on Bellhorn, getting that groundout from Damon. Above all else, Brown was not overthrowing with the first three hitters, with his delivery spinning quickly, his arm dragging and his fastball missing badly.The inning ended with Manny getting thrown out at third, an incredibly dumb play for multiple reasons. A) The REd Sox are down three runs. B) It was the third out of the inning, with Jason Varitek coming to bat. C) Gary Sheffield has a good arm. Just when it looked like they were starting to put pressure on Brown -- wow, what a stupid play.
mike (phoenix)
can anybody else picture the sports guy's face right now?
Peter J. (Bakersfield, CA)
I think it was Casey Stengel who said "Never make the first out or the third out at third base - and try not to make the second out there either."
Dave (Boston)
Can't blame Manny? That's an unnecessary risk... there's no advantage to taking third base there.
Buzzmaster (8:41 PM)
And Sierra leads off with a double, the fun continues for Boston.
Ross (Missoula, Mt)
Wow, Ruben Sierra! I didnt know it was 1995.
Matt (Boston)
HE WAS SAFE!!!
Matt (Plattsburgh,NY)
Manny was safe, dammit
Buzzmaster (8:43 PM)
He was safe ... but it was still dumb.
Buster Olney (8:43 PM)
Fenway Park sounds like a morgue right now...
Tom (Long Island, NY)
1995? Ruben is clutch, the only person that I know hits the ball harder than him is Sheffield.
chriscr123 (Scottsdale)
If a tree fell in Fenway, would we hear it?
Buzzmaster (8:43 PM)
Even Tiger couldn't complain about crowd noise right now.
Urooj (Toronto)
Where's a power hitting shortstop when we need him? Oh yeah, we traded him away for nothing.
Carl (NY)
Is it time for another fight? Maybe that will getthe Sawx going.
Dave (Boston)
Why have Sox pitchers been so fearful of throwing strikes to Jeter in this series? They prefer pitching to Arod and Sheff?
Buster Olney (8:48 PM)
Middle of Second: A big inning for Arroyo, to shut out the Yankees after Ramirez's baserunning blunder. If the Yankees had scored there, it would have had the effect of a dagger. Pitch count is going to be a problem for Arroyo, however, especially with the Boston bullpen short-handed: He's thrown 44 pitches in two innings, and remember, Francona took him out after only 87 during the Division Series...
angelo (hong kong)
good inning for arroyo. maybe he is settling down?
David (Providence)
why do i feel like the sox accomplished something? they only got out of an inning
Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)
44 pitches total through 2 innings for Arroyo. Things are looking up for the Yanks!
Justin (Baltimore)
That's an easy one Dave -- Jeter isn't as selective anymore -- "Likes to hit too much" they say -- so the scouting report is saying that he's gonna swing at pitches out of the zone, so they don't have to be over the plate as much anymore...
damien (bridgeport)
am i wrong in not feeling comfortable with brown pitching?
Buzzmaster (8:50 PM)
I think both Sox and Yankees fans are saying that right now.
Crash (nashville)
Not wrong. Brown's a time bomb; bets he comes apart over the next 2 innings?
Buster Olney (8:51 PM)
Bottom of second: Once Manny got on first in the first inning, Brown seemed to lose his mechanics a bit, and his command. It'll be interesting to see how he does with Varitek on first base now...
Jacob (Washington DC)
Home Run!!!
Crash (nashville)
I'd have Sturtze throwing if I were Torre
Lucas ((England))
brown losing it a bit?
David (Providence)
a run!! two runss!!!!
kevin (boston)
TROOOOOOOOOOTTTTTTTTTTTTTT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Lang (San Francisco)
VERY bad play by Sheffield. If he had turned around the other way, he would have easily made that grab
James (Westfield, NJ)
Tha could have been a grand slam if Manny realized he was big fat and slow.
Rich (NY)
But But But its not the 7th inning yet!
Tom (Long Island, NY)
He gives up one bad pitch are you guys are all over him... and that one bad pitch was a fly ball, and it happened to carry 5 feet too far. Calm down red sox nation, calm down.
Steve (Beantown)
you guys should have posted my call, i would have looked like a genius
Buzzmaster (8:57 PM)
Sox starting to get to Brown, Mueller doubles down the line.
Asad (NY)
Brown has looked HORRIBLE.
damien (bridgeport)
three long fly balls in an inning...something isn't right
Kevin (Cambridge, MA)
Buzzmaster, how many home run calls do you get written in for every batter?
Buzzmaster (8:58 PM)
Even Miguel Cairo gets a few ...
Steve (Beantown)
KEV - VIN! KEV-VIN!
Buster Olney (8:58 PM)
Bottom of the second: Kevin Brown's psyche works this way -- when he doesn't have overpowering stuff, he tends to get frustrated and try to throw harder, and he loses the movement on his fastball. And he doesn't have overpowering stuff, and you can see him trying harder and harder, losing command of his fastball.
joe (new york)
what a vicious chant!!!
Carl (NY)
Buzz, why is McCarver such a homer. Sox get a double but its a great play according to McCarver by Sheffiled holds Mueller to only a double. What a homer.
Buzzmaster (8:59 PM)
All right, I'm not going to comment on McCarver's announcing, but there have been a ton of posts from both sides complaining he's a homer for the other side. You folks may be a little paranoid.
Bronx_in_Bama (Montgomery, AL)
I don't think realistically the Yanks can count on shutting out the Sox for three games in a row, so this isn't surprising. But the middle relief is worse than Kevin right now, don't you think?
c-for (ny)
brownie doesn't have it tonight...but what are our options realistically...saving vasquez for tomorrow with duque...loaiza and sturtze are the only options
Buzzmaster (9:01 PM)
Damon finally comes through and Damon takes second on a bad defensive play. We're tied up at Fenway.
Buzzmaster (9:03 PM)
ShowGirl reports that the "Yankees Suck" chant is in full roar at Jillian's. No surprise.
Bob (NYC)
I am a Yankee fan and I hope Brown punches a wall between innings!
ROB (DALLAS)
NEED TO BRING IN LOAIZA
Jared (Brookline, MA)
Brown has just matched Arroyo's pitch count, and he has one mroe out to go in this inning.
nick (flint, mi)
What are the odds bellhorn comes through with anything here
Buzzmaster (9:04 PM)
How about a run-scoring strikeout?
chriscr123 (Scottsdale)
A Bellhorn strikeout coming up?
Sydney (Buffalo)
Full count!
Urooj (Toronto)
A WALK!
Chewie (Jersey)
can Rivera pitch 7?
Mike (San Francisco)
Manny's chance for redemption coming up.
Buster Olney (9:06 PM)
Middle of the second: This much we know -- this game will be decided by the bullpens. Tie score, and Brown already has thrown 31 pitches in this inning, 50 in the game.
Lynn (New Orleans)
Will Manny atone for his atrocious baserunning?
David (Providence)
would any other player get such a cheer for drawing a walk?
Buzzmaster (9:07 PM)
Wow, Mr. Postseason can't make the play. Everyone safe, Sox take the lead.
Jacob (Washington DC)
Jeter making an error on a crucial play in the playoffs? I never thought I'd see the day....
steve (san francisco)
Jeter blows it? Strange things are afoot at the Circle L.
nick (flint, mi)
thats the first bad play i think ive ever seen jeter make in the playoffs
Ross (Missoula, Mt)
HA! Take that Mystique Boy
Buzzmaster (9:08 PM)
Ruled a hit.
Buzzmaster (9:08 PM)
Changed to an error? That's a tough call.
Taurus237 (Oakland)
That was an error on Jeter in my opinion
Steve (Long Island, NY)
That's an error? Give me a break. You'd need to unretire Ozzie or unbury Honus Wagner to find someone who would make that play.
Derek (Boston)
is it just me or does ortiz take more 1/4 swings than anyone else in the game
Jacob (Washington DC)
With the way the Yankees are hitting, Ortiz needs to make something happen here. The Sox have been on too many cold streaks in this series to leave 2 men on
damien (bridgeport)
thank god ortiz is slow
Daniel (Arlington, VA)
Take it easy Miguel...plenty of time to get Ortiz at first
Ian (Rochester)
Do you take Kevin out? If Ortiz gets a hit, that's his last batter, in my opinion, but the out might help a little. Either way, he's hanging by a thread, and Javy better be ready at a moment's notice...
Kevin (Cambridge, MA)
Cairo blew up as much as Brown did that inning. Can't do much to top a bad throw, a bobble, and a near error.
Todd (San Diego)
Sox should've done more with that inning too. They can't keep the Yankees in this...they'll find a way to lose if they do.
Mike (Bridgewater, NJ)
Vasquez is up in the bullpen. At this point, I suppose even the Yankees shaky middle relief has to be better than Kevin Brown at this point in the game.
Buster Olney (9:12 PM)
End of the second: Up-to-date tally -- Brown 57 pitches (and clearly a candidate to be replaced very quickly in the third), four Red Sox runs, and one clipped toenail mid-rally. Maybe Damon should do the same thing in the third with another toenail; it must be good luck.
Daniel (Arlington, VA)
Arroyo MUST successfully navigate A-Rod, Sheff, and Godzilla here or all that momentum goes down the tubes
angelo (hong kong)
let's see if arroyo can hold it.Francona's got to watch it here. 1st lead of series and he must hold it and treat like 8th inning of 2003 series or he'll be out of their like last manager
Jay (West Texas)
Damon better be careful, with the Sox luck he'll cut too far and get an infection
Buzzmaster (9:14 PM)
And A-Rod reminds us that Bronson Arroyo is on the mound with a HR.
Derek (Boston)
here comes the slugfest
Sydney (Buffalo)
Wow...get a neck brace for Arroyo. That was hit HARD
raj (ny)
that lead didnt last long
Taurus237 (Oakland)
Tie game. Let's see how the Boston fans react.
Peter J. (Bakersfield, CA)
I would say Arroyo didn't successfully navigate that. More like run aground on the rocks
Jacob (Washington DC)
And the fans go SILENT
Bronx_in_Bama (Montgomery, AL)
This game is probably going to be the way this whole series should have been. Tooth and Nail. Nice revenge for A-Rod against Arroyo after the bean ball incident.
Chewie (Jersey)
Will Godzilla strike again?
nick (flint, mi)
can we just replace Arroyo and Brown with Jennie Finch??
Daniel (Arlington, VA)
If Matsui strokes one here, then he has to be approaching Dent territory
Buster Olney (9:19 PM)
Anybody want to predict the final score of this game? 17-12? 15-11? This could get real ugly...
Chewie (Jersey)
Matsui is completely locked in right now, Arroyo better not miss inside again.
LT (Los Angeles)
Anyone smell trouble here with Matsui fouling pitches off?
Buzzmaster (9:20 PM)
And there goes Bronson Arroyo. Not the stuff of legends.
nick (flint, mi)
i predict it gets called due to darkness or all the fans will leave for the Patriots game
dost (boston)
19-18
Ian (New York)
How about this Ex-Yankee coming in to try and save the Red Sox's season..
Mike (Bridgewater, NJ)
Matsui with a double, and Arroyo is already out of the game. Even though Kevin Brown is struggling, I think this is very endemic of what's been affecting the Sox this series... inabilty to make the most out of any kind of momentum.
Ross (Missoula, Mt)
Great Mendoza is coming in, this is the moment Steinbrenner has been waiting for ever since he paid him to go to Boston last year.
Buster Olney (9:22 PM)
Top of the first: Arroyo walks off the mound having gotten six outs with 60 pitches. Faced 13 hitters and 8 reached base, including five extra-base hits.
Lucas (England)
If (God forbid) the Yankees and the Cards make it to the Series, will they just set up a tee for them or still have the pitchers throw? Because I'm not sure there will be much of a difference with the way these teams are raking right now.
angelo (hong kong)
big gamble here w/ Mendoza. if he can't hold him who do they turn to?
Steve (NY)
Bernie owns Mendoza. Look out.
Buzzmaster (9:25 PM)
And the Yanks waste little time reclaiming the lead
Jay (West Texas)
Steve (NY) gets a gold star
LT (Los Angeles)
Mendoza with the offspeed stuff? Wow.
Buzzmaster (9:25 PM)
Or just a really slow fastball.
Buster Olney (9:25 PM)
Three straight changeups from Mendoza, and Bernie hit the third; you almost never see that, and for good reason.
Tom (Long Island, NY)
That was the greatest 15 minutes of the Red Sox Postseason... a lead ont he yankees.
Steve (san francisco)
When Bernie is 92 and in a wheelchair he'll still be knocking in clutch RBI's during the playoffs.
RJ (Buffalo, NY)
I dont understand the move to Mendoza. He's your long relief situation?
James (Westfield, NJ)
Balk-tastic!
c-for (ny)
thats definitely a balk
Johan (Sweden)
I just threw up in my mouth
Buzzmaster (9:29 PM)
Heck, the Sox should have kept Youkilis on the roster and pitched him instead of Mendoza.
damien (bridgeport)
look! even the trainer knew it was a balk!
Allen (Albany)
Does Boston pitching really need to give the Yankees new and innovative ways to allow them to score runs?
Peter J. (Bakersfield, CA)
What could Francona's argument possibly be? "Believe me and not your own eyes?"
Buzzmaster (9:30 PM)
Every time Mendoza balks, the batter pops out. He might be on to something.
Asad (NY)
Posada has not looked good this post season.
matt (queens, ny)
mendoza still with that yankee mentality, killing the red sox chances
Todd (San Diego)
Even the trainer knew it was a balk, but does it surprise anyone that Francona DIDN'T?
JL (Brookline)
Peter, the argument is that he was an infielder as soon as he stepped off of the mound and therefore can throw wherever he wants.
Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)
But the rule is once you step off, you can't throw home. Any other base that you want.
Buzzmaster (9:34 PM)
Wow, the Arroyo-to-Mendoza-to-Leskanic connection is awe inspiring.
Kelvin (Christchurch, NZ)
Oh god, Leskanic warming up.
James (Westfield, NJ)
Nice play by Cabrera
Ryan (Athens, GA)
Rule 8.01 (e) from official MLB rule book: (e) If the pitcher removes his pivot foot from contact with the pitcher's plate by stepping backward with that foot, he thereby becomes an infielder and if he makes a wild throw from that position, it shall be considered the same as a wild throw by any other infielder. The pitcher, while off the rubber, may throw to any base. If he makes a wild throw, such throw is the throw of an infielder and what follows is governed by the rules covering a ball thrown by a fielder. It's not a balk.
Scott (NYC)
The Red Sox bullpen is going to be taxed after this game
Buzzmaster (9:36 PM)
Although not as much if Bush wins.
c-for (ny)
who thinks vazquez will hold the fort?....me either
Buster Olney (9:36 PM)
Middle of the Second: So you are Terry Francona -- how are you looking at managing your staff the rest of the game? Mendoza has already thrown 17 pitches and probably won't get through the fourth inning -- maybe only one or two outs. Then you'd have to look for Leskanic to get you six outs. Call on Embree, if it works out, to face either Matsui or Olerud in the fifth. He gets to the seventh, and then it's Timlin. And if the outcome is still in doubt, Foulke for the last two innings.And here's the real problem: They've got to play tomorrow night, too.
Daniel (Arlington, VA)
you don't want to hand the ball in the playoffs to the guy who lost the Brewers and Royals closer jobs
Buzzmaster (9:37 PM)
Vazquez takes over for Brown.
joe (new york)
if a pitcher can get through an inning w/o giving up any runs its got to be considered a huge accomplishment
Buzzmaster (9:39 PM)
Varitek comes through again to get on base.
Pete (Palo Alto)
This is one of the best softball games I have ever seen...
Mike (San Francisco)
Come on, Trot. Take one for the team...
Derek (Boston)
you take that one for the team trot
Jarreau (Bronx)
If Wakefiend comes in, what does that mean for tomorrow Buzz?
Buzzmaster (9:42 PM)
It may mean Lowe goes, it may mean Schilling's session went better than they're letting on, it may mean Wakefield can go on very short rest. Most likely it means, there is no tomorrow for the Sox at this point.
damien (bridgeport)
wakefield is a durable pitcher because of almost no taxation on the body the knuckleball brings, he can pitch two days in a row if need be
Rory (Boca Raton FL)
Come on Millar Cowboy Up!
Mike (San Francisco)
It's up to the mis-spelled Millers...
Buzzmaster (9:44 PM)
Wow, that was close to base-running chaos. But everyone is safe with runners on second and third.
Buster Olney (9:46 PM)
Vazquez is rushing in his delivery -- which is what he's been doing since the All-Star break -- and he's lost his release point, again, throwing the ball from a slot much lower than he normally would...
Rory (Boca Raton )
Another conference
Tom (New York)
What happened to Vazquez this season? Anybody have an idea? He's a shadow of the guy we saw last season. Is it NY? Is it that simple?
Buzzmaster (9:47 PM)
Bases juiced for Cabrera.
Rory (Boca Raton )
Battle of the old Expos!
c-for (ny)
the walk isnt that bad...potential double play
Bob (NYC)
This might be the ugliest playoff game I have ever seen.
Steve (Long Island, NY)
It doesn't make sense because the way Torre talks about him, he seems so level-headed and competitive. It seems like he'd have the perfect psyche for New York. It's really inexplicable.
Mike (San Francisco)
That was a foot outside!!!
Dave (Boston)
Way outside!!!
Andrew (Seattle)
two feet
LT (Los Angeles)
Strike?!! That ball was 5 inches off the plate!!!
Doug (Wyoming, Ia)
Lots of pitches..hanging tough....
Buzzmaster (9:51 PM)
Posada keeps it around, that might end up being huge.
zack (boston, MA)
why didn't he go?
kevin (boston)
surprise that wasnt a strike
Jacob (Washington DC)
great at bat from Orlando, takes it for 3-2
Buzzmaster (9:52 PM)
Two runs score but who the heck sent Mueller?
Ross (Missoula, Mt)
Dammit Sveum!!!!
zack (boston, MA)
DALE SVUEM WHAT ARE YOU DOING???
Aaron (Chicago)
Two major baserunning mistakes in the game for Boston...forget talking about a curse, how about just stupid baseball.
Eric (Canton, NY)
If Sveum had held Mueller it's be a 7-6 game right now with the inning still going.
Daniel (New York)
Has there ever been a more notorious third base coach?
Ian (New York)
Only six more innings of this disgrace to good pitchers everywhere..
Rob (Cleveland)
This is on pace to be a six hour game.
Buster Olney (9:57 PM)
End of the third: A crisp three innings. 6-6 score, four pitchers (and many more to come), and we've already seen 168 pitches in 1 hour and 45 minutes. Beautiful. By the way, if anybody is looking for work, please report to the bullpens here in Fenway...
Rory (Boca Raton )
It's now Sturtze and Loaiza vs. Leskanic and Myers
Buzzmaster (9:57 PM)
And that's downright scary.
Buzzmaster (9:58 PM)
Is there a cycle for pitchers? Mendoza has the balk and the HBP, leading off the inning by hitting Cairo.
David (Providence)
wow. mendoza. beautiful.
Steve (Long Island, NY)
I think that was the one thing we haven't seen, yet! PLUNK!
Buzzmaster (9:59 PM)
And Mendoza gets the hook.
Peter J. (Bakersfield, CA)
a pitching change... that's unusual
Sal (Boston MA)
This game has been rated R for disturbing baserunning, horrid pitching, and vuglar language (from me, anyway)
joe (new york)
this is getting really comical
Steve (Boston)
Time to panic, it's Leskanic
matt (queens, ny)
would getting the hook be part of the cycle buzz
Buzzmaster (10:00 PM)
Good point. But he didn't give up a homer or get caught with sandpaper, so he might come up short.
johnny (houston)
pitcher cycle, hbp,balk,wild pitch,error
Todd (San Diego)
Francona brings in Leskanic with runners on...way to put your guy in a position to fail. He's not Mo Rivera! You wanna give him every chance to succeed, no?
Rory (Boca Raton )
I find it amazing that after getting relesaed by the Kansas City Royals, Curtis Leskanic could now hold the key to the season
Steve (Long Island, NY)
A good fielding play. Do I have Game 3 of the ALCS on or not!?
Ethan (Bennington Vermont)
Nice catch by Nixon.
Chewie (Jersey)
Jeter has hit more line drives at fielders this season than I could keep count of
Buzzmaster (10:03 PM)
But apparently you thought of trying?
Doug (Wyoming, Ia)
I thought that is why you had two arms? Wave the 1st on with your right..and hold the 2nd one with you left...
Buster Olney (10:06 PM)
In the top of the fourth: Wakefield is warming up with one out in the fourth, and I just do not get it. Leskanic has retired the only hitter he has faced; at least let him fail before you start warming up guys in the bullpen. This is the second time Wakefield has thrown in the 'pen in this game. Hell, if you're going to bring him in, he should have brought him in to replace Mendoza.
Buzzmaster (10:06 PM)
From 0-2 to a walk. That hurts. One out, first and second with the big bats coming.
Jay (West Texas)
Hard to believe these guys won 199 games between them
Daniel (Arlington, VA)
Better get the DP or Leskanic faces Matsui...whew
Buzzmaster (10:07 PM)
Sheff with the monster shot.
damien (bridgeport)
MVP!!! MVP!!!
Bob (NYC)
This is absolutely hilarious!
joe (new york)
was anyone even remotely surprised by that homer????
Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)
Wow, how can you hang a pitch so high and inside to GARY SHEFFIELD?
Buzzmaster (10:08 PM)
Anyone else feel like that three-run shot might break Boston's backs? Or are we in for more of the same in the last five innings?
Buzzmaster (10:09 PM)
And Matsui doubles ...
Buster Olney (10:09 PM)
In the midst of the fourth: Sheffield just went deep for a two-run shot and Francona should take some heat for the way he's handled this inning. If he really thought bringing Leskanic into the game was a bad idea -- and apparently he did, because he started warming up Wakefield -- then he should've called on Wakefield earlier in the inning. And now Matsui doubled. What a debacle.
Marty (Austin)
it's like they're using aluminum bats or something
jon (brooklyn)
matsui is a beast, they can't figure him out at all.
Kadidal (New York)
Very windy day, could be trouble for the knuckleballer's control.
Brad W (Detroit, MI)
Typical Red Sox...give the fans some hope by tying the game and the promptly give up three runs and put another runner in scoring posistion..I mean is there any doubt how this series is going to end?
Chewie (Jersey)
Arod + Sheff + Matsui = 6-7, 5RBI
john (athens)
Ok, that about does it. Boston cannot keep coming back in this game. Who would have thought sweep...
sparklecopy (new york ny)
Unbelievable! everytime boston gets an inkling, a spark, New York stomps harder. It's fate.
Tom (New York)
I think we can safely put any "ARod can't get it done in a big spot" rumors to bed. Officially. He's been awesome.
Buzzmaster (10:13 PM)
I'm sorry, match-ups be damned. Would you give an intentional walk to anyone with balls flying all over the park like they are tonight? Why give baserunners?
Steve (Long Island, NY)
Walk our coldest hitter to face sierra. THANK YOU FRANCONA!
Peter J. (Bakersfield, CA)
I'm a Yankee fan and I'd rather pitch to Posada than Sierra.
Jarreau (Bronx)
intentionally walkin Posada? hes played horrible...worst red sox managed game ever
angelo (hong kong)
interesting choice .intentional walk posada to face sierra?might be 12 six soon
Darryl (San Jose)
C'mon Red Sox fans..I'm a Yankee fan, and I don't EVEN think this is over. The Yankee pitching has been just as bad
JL (Brookline)
Sierra's a fastball hitter...let's see what happens.
Paul (Ann Arbor)
John...I hate the Sox as much as anyone, but they can come back, especially if Loiaza gets in the game
Buzzmaster (10:15 PM)
Two runs in, Sierra on third and a five-run lead.
Juvy (Hamilton,NY)
Who told them to walk Posda
Jarreau (Bronx)
That intentional walk to Sierra really paid off Francona...youre fired
Jon (Queens)
Francona is officially going to be asked "Why did you intentionally walk Posada....." once this game is over
Arthur (Austin, TX)
Its getting out of reach now
Adam (Chicago)
What a shock, the extra baserunner comes around to score ...
Reid (Raleigh, NC)
Francona is an awful manager. Just awful.....
Ethan (Bennington Vermont)
Without Francona we wouldn't have schilling... as crappy a manager as he can be sometimes...
Jay (West Texas)
My wife wanted to know if the game was over yet.
Buzzmaster (10:17 PM)
So does Terry Francona.
Andrew (Tucson)
I've officially started listening to Elliot Smith and drinking heavily.
Buster Olney (10:19 PM)
Middle of the fourth: Francona's mind must be racing. His intentional walk backfired, his team has run into two outs, and his pitching staff is a mess. Francona must be thinking this way for the rest of the series -- if it lasts past tomorrow. Lowe in Game 4, Schilling Game 5, Pedro Game 6, Arroyo Game 7. And now Wakefield probably shifts permanently into the bullpen.
Jeff (Jackson, NJ)
At least the Red Sox are going against the Yankee's misfits. I like the 5-run cushion but I still stand by first to 20 wins.
Christian (Boston)
WOW and you call yourselves sox fans, keep the faith
Steve (Long Island, NY)
Combined ERA of both teams pitchers tonight: 20.57. YIKES!
Steve (New York)
Bellhorn!!! Strike - out. I... I... I just can't believe it.
Chris (Brooklyn)
If the Sox don't put up at least 2 in the 4th, this game and series are over.
Tony (Boston)
You want us to keep the faith after watching the first two games and then THIS?!?!?!?!
chriscr123 (Scottsdale)
Over, did you say it's over? Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor?
Mike (Queens)
the germans didnt bomb pearl harbor
Buzzmaster (10:22 PM)
Sshhh, Don't stop him he's on a roll.
Justin (Scranton)
He's talking about Animal House, you fool
Todd (San Diego)
There is someone here who isn't an Animal House fan?!?!
joe (new york)
It's not over until Terry Francona inexplicibly brings in his game four starter as a reliver in game three...oh wait he did that already
will (LA)
the red sox still have 16 outs, they can definitely score runs...who is going to pitch for the yanks before they get to Gordon/Rivera? Question is can the sox get them out
Buster Olney (10:25 PM)
This will be the 50th pitch for Vazquez -- and Manny fouls it back, again...
Kevin (Albany, NY)
The problem is, Boston has four relievers left in their bullpen-who can give them a maximum of one inning each. So Wakefield will have to throw at least one more inning, which could get ugly. That or the Sox pick up Todd Zeile.
Aaron (Chicago)
That was an unbelievable at bat by Ramirez and shows why he is one of the best hitters in the game.
Steve (Long Island, NY)
50 pitches and 4 outs? My goodness.
Jarreau (Bronx)
Vasquez is slowly dyin and with Ortiz at bat .
Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)
Come on, Javy. You're giving them life.
Jose LA CA
Vasquez, what are you doing to me?
Buzzmaster (10:29 PM)
First and second, one out. How important is it to scratch out at least a run here?
Doug (Wyoming, Ia)
Surprized Manny didn't try to take 3rd...
Ghost of Ted Williams (CryoStasis)
Longest... ACLS game... ever
Rory (Boca Raton )
They might as well keep Vazquez in if they are gonna put in Loaiza
Jay (West Texas)
Torre is asking Stottlemeyer if he can give him 2 good innings.
Eric (Canton, NY)
Pretty important, Buzz but both of these teams have shown that they can put up 5 or 6 an inning. I don't think 11 is gonna win this.
Steve (New York)
Critical. Must be done. Don't have to get it all back, but you need to keep your own offensive momentum
Ross (Missoula, Mt)
Scratch out one run? How about a 3 run jack from Tek, now that would be important.
Buzzmaster (10:31 PM)
Yeah, so it might not be Boston's night ... DP ends the inning.
Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)
OUCH. That one will hurt later.
Jose LA CA
WOuldn't you know it? OLERUD!!!!
Chris (Brooklyn)
A bad break for the Sox? How can that be???
David (Providence)
wha... what just hap-happened??
Jon (San Diego)
Did Olerud just catch the bat as well as that liner for the DP?
Believer (beantown)
shattered bat=shattered dreams
Andrew (Tucson)
thank you for stating the obvious Buzzmaster
Buzzmaster (10:32 PM)
No problem, Andy.
Jim (PA)
This series just ended. But at least Simmons' diary will be hilarious, if he doesn't kill himself
no hope left (boston)
i need to stop hoping, seriously it's causing me sleepless nights, and terrible stress ulcers
Buster Olney (10:34 PM)
End of the fourth: The Red Sox have to make something happen with their next six outs, because the way this game is going, Torre almost undoubtedly will go to Gordon to start the seventh, and he will be very willing to get six outs with Rivera, in an attempt to go up 3-0 in this series. What a mess...
Jay (Queens, NY)
It's a good thing that Arroyo was confident, or else it might be 20-6 right now
Mike (San Francisco)
Wow, great play by Cabrera...
Jon (Queens)
Orlando Cabrera doing his best Derek Jeter impression
Chewie (Jersey)
Web gem by Cabrera!
Bruce (New Jersey)
Bear in mind, though, that the Red Sox are quite capable of putting up five runs in an inning. And it's not exactly a secret that the Yankee middle relief has been shaky since spring training...
alex (houston)
well it looks like boston's season will depend on DEREK LOWE!!! nice
Reid (Raleigh, NC)
Hey Sox fans - here comes the meat of the Yankees order again!!!
Buster Olney (10:37 PM)
Steve (Long Island): I think he would; it's his habit to go for the jugular, and not to mess around and let Quantrill or Sturtze or somebody give up two or three-baserunners and cut the margin for error. Gordon hasn't been good, but Joe still trusts him; he really has no trust in the other middle guys.
Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)
Can you believe it? Vazquez threw more pitches than Brown.
Rob (Cleveland)
He seems to trust Sturtze more than Quantrill, at least toward the end of the year. I think Torre thought that Karsay would be back and more of a factor too.
Buzzmaster (10:40 PM)
12-6, Yankees. Out of hand, or still just getting there?
Ethan (Bennington Vermont)
When does this game become unreachable?
Arthur (Austin, TX)
The rout is on. Goodbye Boston. Next year?
Peter J. (Bakersfield, CA)
12-6... I say bring in Sheff for the two-point conversion
James (Westfield, NJ)
The thing is that the Yankee middle relief is getting a big lead. Not only do the Yankees have to hold off the Red Sox, the Sox have to stop letting them increase the lead.
Pete (Indianapolis)
that line drive may have killed someone in the stands....not kidding.
adam (nj)
first sheff is gonna kil someone with one of those line drives
Eric (NY)
Why are we positive 11 runs won't win the game, but 12 is?
Buzzmaster (10:42 PM)
How about 13?
Johnathan (NYC)
I think if they get to 15 it is officially over.
lj (Charlotte, NC)
ok, maybe now it's over.
Jay (West Texas)
I say bring in Stephen King - He's creepy and might scare the hitters
Aaron (Chicago)
This was the Red Sox performance with their backs against the wall? This has been a debacle!
Marvin (Endicott,NY)
Let's see if they can get Matsui
Steve (Brooklyn)
The finally got Matsui out
Dave (Attleboro, MA)
Well, I guess if Boston is ever going to do anything, it will really be historic
will (LA)
Yankees now have more outs than runs!
Steve (New York)
So the focus of the inning was to get Matsui out. Unfortunately everyone else hit a double. But they got Matsui.
Ghost of Ruth (Atlanta)
HAHA!Fouls coming back on the field
Todd (San Diego)
Always classy, those Red Sox fans...so very classy
Buster Olney (10:46 PM)
Middle of the Fifth: Jay (Queens) -- to follow up on what you wrote: The Red Sox let him get away for an average of $2 million annually over seven years. To put that in perspective: The Red Sox spent about $750,000 per day in payroll during the regular season, so they let A-Rod get away for relative pennies... First four hitters in the Yankees' lineup have combined for 11 runs scored and eight extra-base hits.
Ross (Missoula, Mt)
About time Fox showed some of its stars who just HAPPEN to be at the game. Ive been waiting for that all night.
Kevin (Haymarket, VA)
To be honest, 7 months ago this is what I expected from the Yankees. It's about time they're doing it. With a line-up of Jeter, A-Rod, Sheff, Matsui, Williams, Posada...they should get a lot of runs. At the beginning of the year many thought they would get 1000 runs. What will it be like next year with a healthy Giambi and maybe Beltran.
Allen (Albany)
How frightning is it that in the midst of all these Yankee hits, there are still 4 Yankees, including Jeter, who do not have a hit yet...
Marc (Long Island)
Hey Buzz, any chance we will see a position player pitch tonight?
Buzzmaster (10:51 PM)
Marc, I think there's a chance we'll see you pitch tonight.
Reid (Raleigh, NC)
How many out have the Sox left on the basepaths tonight? Three? They're simply not a championship-calibre team.
Pete (Richmond VA)
If A-Rod had come to the Sox, Ramirez would be in Texas now...seeing that Manny is arguably the MVP of the league, I don't see how you can argue that not getting A-Rod hurt the Sox. Even if it would have been for 'pennies a day'
Jay (Queens, NY)
an amazing 3 in a row for vasquez.
Steve (PA)
1. 2. 3????
Andrew (PSL)
It wasnt all Vazquez, it seemed to me the Sox were waving white flags instead of bats.
John C (NYC)
ok is it safe to say that the red sox wasted a starter today and now have to go with Lowe tomorrow. So the rainout helped which team again??
Mitt (Chicago)
I think that Boston is obviously a "championship-calibre team". Any team in the playoffs has to be considered as such, but especially Boston, who had a greater difference of runs scored and runs allowed than the Yankees, another "championship-calibre" team. Fact is, anything can happen in a short series...
Mike (San Francisco)
It's not like Wakefield was a guarantee, anyways. He's not exactly shutting them down tonight...
Mike (Kalamazoo)
Well, after seeing Wakefield, it looks like Lowe would be the better prospect anyway. Especially at Fenway.
Nate (Salt Lake City)
So.....What pitchers are available in free agency this off-season? We have got to find someone to help Schilling out.
Buzzmaster (10:57 PM)
You've got to start by figuring out what to do with Pedro.
Johnny (Fairfax, VA)
Here's the difference between the Yanks and the Sox. The Yankees ask "How will we find a way to win?" The Sox ask: "How will we find a way to losez?" Thats it. Thats the difference.
Buzzmaster (10:58 PM)
Yanks and Sox fans? Maybe. Players? I really doubt the Sox players are looking for ways to lose.
Andrew Estey ((Saint John, NB, Canada))
Nate, Pavano! Pavano! Pavano!
James (Westfield, NJ)
They aren't looking for a way to lose, but they seem to be finding it anyway
mike (detroit)
Buzzmaster, you are terribly wrong
Buzzmaster (11:01 PM)
Wouldn't be the first time, Mike.
Jack (N.Attleboro)
Pedro is gone. No doubt. He will say "I want to stay in Boston" but will not take anything less than Shill. Some team (Padres?) will overpay him and Sox won't match. Goodbye deadarm.
Larry (Weatherford, OK)
I'm wondering if Pedro is worth a long-term deal. He doesn't throw 95-97 anymore.
Buster Olney (11:02 PM)
Middle of the sixth: This game has dragged on so long that we're into off-season speculation. (By the way, Olerud was just replaced by Tony Clark). It's considered a fait accompli by GMs around baseball that Beltan will sign with the Yankees in the off-season... They're the only team which will probabl ybe willing to go into 9 digits to sign him....
Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)
Uh-oh. Olerud is out. And the K-Man himself is in, Tony Clark.
Peter J. Wiggins (Norton,MA)
I've just read in the Boston Red Sox message Board at redsox.com and the post and one person said the Yankees reading the Red Sox pitchers. THAT IS DEFINITELY CHEATING. I guess the MLB and the Red Sox should tell the umpire about the Yankees batting, They are reading the pitchers signals and arms for the Red Sox. So the Red Sox should end the Yankees reign of terror in the ALCS.The Yankees are not giving the Red Sox or any other American League team a chance at a World Series berth for the American League.The Yankees are selfish to the AL
Buzzmaster (11:04 PM)
Um, anyone know a good translator?
Buzzmaster (11:05 PM)
Wow, the Stephen King interview. A sure sign it's safe to beat traffic ...
Steve (New York)
Does Boston change lineups going into gm. 4? I mean giving 2 outs at the top of your lineup can't really help you right now.
Believer (beantown)
Bellhorn strike out...again
Ross (Missoula, Mt)
They have to do something about bellhorn, i would rather watch pokey at this point
Daniel (Arlington, VA)
Bring in Pokey...can't be any worse than Bellhorn
James (Westfield, NJ)
They are warming up Heredia, that is how you know Torre thinks the game is over.
Buster Olney (11:10 PM)
End of the Sixth: I wonder if we will see Pokey Reese in Game 4, over Bellhorn, if sinkerballer Derek Lowe does, indeed, start for the Red Sox. I bet Francona sticks with Bellhorn. Maybe Francona would just change for the sake of change, with the fans here starting to get on Bellhorn and Bellhorn not doing anything, anyway...
Andy (Yakima WA)
Mientiwiecz is also the usual first baseman for Lowe. Does anyone think he would start?
Steve (Louisville, KY)
Buster, you've got to realize Bellhorn isn't the problem; Johnny "Caveman Jesus" Damon is the problem. A lead-off man who doesn't get on 90% of the time is just giving away an out. Francona needs to rearrange his order, or just haul Damon out. And where's Gabe Kapler? Dude's got a hell of a bat, and can't be that much of a liability over Trot Nixon.
Buster Olney (11:13 PM)
Rob (NY): Agree with you; this game has started to take on the feel of one of those spring training games, where everybody is hacking early in the count and trying to move the game along. The Sox have to be just about wrecked emotionally, at this point.
Doug (Wyoming, Ia)
Well...you CAN'T and I mean CAN'T let the Yankees celabrate in Boston. Make them go home..you need to change the order so there are people on base in front of those that can knock them in.
James (Westfield, NJ)
Saying Kapler has a hell of a bat is the biggest exaggeration i've seen here tonight
James (Providence)
I'm sorry is Bellhorn PITCHING? Or did he commit a 7 run ERROR? (difference in score)... stop booing Bellhorn and boo every pitcher in uniform. Oh yeah, and thanks Terry F'in Francona for bringing in Mendoza... do you really think he a pitcher FOR the Red Sox? ha ha
Buster Olney (11:15 PM)
Steve -- Agree with you, Damon is the bigger problem in this series, but Francona would never bench him; he would bench Bellhorn, because he has an easy alternative...
Believer (beantown)
and bellhorn contnues his stellar play
Jarreau (Bronx)
Its official, Bellhorns shaving points.
Pete (Indianapolis)
I think the Green Monster has a lean now thanks to Sheff...he's unreal.
Steve (Louisville, KY)
i think we can officially dispel those questions about Sheff's post-season slumping. He seems to be dialed in, injured shoulder and all.
Jacob (Washington DC)
This game is OVER - why bring in Embree and tire him for the rest of the series???
Tom (New York)
Matsui is 4-9 career vs. Embree.
Adam (Kalamazoo)
by the rest of the series you mean one game??
Josh (Princeton, NJ)
jacob, what series?
Matt (West Hempstead, NY)
WOW well it looks like everyone in Boston (fans and players) are pretty much sleeping through the last 3 innings of this game. The place is silent and the players aren't trying at all. If this was the Yankees down by 7 runs i guarantee you they'd still be hustling and working their butts off. THIS is why Boston always loses.
Buzzmaster (11:22 PM)
And the award for silliest comment of the night goes to Matt.
Ed (Boston)
ANOTHER Matsui hit, off Embree no less.
Bob (NYC)
I remember a ton of Red Sox fans and baseball fans in general questioning whether he should be an all star or not. This guy is unreal. He is awesome!
Steve (Brooklyn)
The score of this game is gonna be higher then the score of the Bills Dolphins game tomorrow
Matt (West Hempstead, NY)
hey buzz- what's so silly about that?!?!
Buzzmaster (11:25 PM)
Come on, Matt. They're both professional baseball teams. The Sox won, what, three fewer games. The Yankees are really so much more "professional" that they'd be hustling and the Sox are dogging it?
Barry (Philly)
Where's that vaunted Boston defense?
Tom (New York)
It wasn't silly, Matt. Buzz is just bitter at the moment.
Buzzmaster (11:26 PM)
Well, that's also true.
Ghost of Ruth (Atlanta)
Managing is the difference, Torre deserves to be in the hall... francona is a ONE YEAR SKIP
Destinee (Queens)
I don't think your comment is silly at all Matt. I think Boston is so wrapped up in the feud they have forgotten how to play competitive baseball. They are waiting for a supernatural win and there is no such thing! They need to rely on their talent instead of fate. All that "You gotta believe" stuff is proof of that.
Yankee Fan In... (Boston)
MAN! ANOTHER hit off the Monster.
Matt (West Hempstead, NY)
buzz, I'm not saying they're "dogging it." I'm saying that this crowd is absolutely SILENT and the players are running around or doing anything to at least show that they'd try and put up some sort of fight and get back in this game and not get swept or beaten at home by the hated Yankees.
Braves Fan (Christchurch, NZ)
Come on, let's hear the criticism for the crowd leaving early. 17-6 now
Believer (beantown)
10 run rule..pretty please?
Reid (Raleigh, NC)
Embree is soooo money!!!!
Jim (Cape Cod MA)
It's tough, we'd like to think we're the Yankees equals, but they've got us by about 50 mill in payroll
Eric (Cincy)
and what exactly is the crowd supposed to be making noise over?
Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)
Wah wah. Now the Sox fans are excusing their play on their LACK of payroll? Yeah. Ok.
Ryan T (St. Bonaventure, NY)
Ah, it's nice to see the Excuse Train is coming in right on time tonight.
Buster Olney (11:30 PM)
On the eve of Game 3, the Boston police held a press conference to announce the stringent security they would put in place for this weekend. That's a good thing, the way this game and series is going; there are going to be a whole lot of frustrated Sox fans walking out of this place. Twelve extra-base hits, 17 runs, an ALCS record...
Joe (Salem,OR)
Another bitter Sox fan bringing up the salaries because their team can't hang in the crunch.
Buzzmaster (11:31 PM)
I think that's the guy who gave me a ticket last time I was on the Pike.
Mark (Atlanta)
No kidding. I didnt see the Marlins complaining about the payroll. Or the Dbacks. Or the Angels... sheesh Boston, accept it, the Yankees are your daddies.
Paul (Ann Arbor)
Put the cop on the mound. He's got more juice than anyone with "Red Sox" on his chest
Arthur (Austin, TX)
Boston needs Leon!
Mike (San Francisco)
We need to sign Leon. Definite rally-starter.
Peter J. (Bakersfield, CA)
I like the Leon commercials even though I can't stand the beer.
David (Honolulu)
Please don't post from crybaby Sox fans. There are many more of us who can accept reality.
Mike (DC)
Honestly, as a Yankee fan, this team is harder to root for than the teams of '96, '98... I mean, next year we'll have Beltran, Pedro, and Pavano. It's kind of boring when you're trotting out 25 all-stars and when winning the WS becomes the benchmark of any sucessful season.
Mike (San Francisco)
Why would Boston fans expect Yankee fans to understand our pain? The worst they've had to deal with was a few years in the late 80's and early 90's. OF COURSE we're bitter.... It's been 86 frickin' years!!!
Buzzmaster (11:37 PM)
HR for Varitek. 10 more of those and we've got a game.
Freak (Boston)
Nice consolation there by Varitek
Ethan (Bennington VT)
And the comeback begins!
Eric (Columbus, OH)
That's 2. Only 8 more!
Ross (Missoula, Mt)
WHats with ortiz holding his back there, the last thing we need is another excuse
Freak (Boston)
And now Papi's injured. Oh Joy.
matt (queens, ny)
and ortiz hurts his back, the hits keep on comin
Adam (Houghton, MI)
It's a shame we will never know how good this year's Twins team was. The only reason the Yankees got by us was money and anyone else that says differently can accept reality. Terry Ryan deserves to be in the Hall of Fame, anyone else agree?
Buzzmaster (11:40 PM)
And we thought only Sox fans were bitter.
Justin Zeth (Altoona, PA)
You mean the same Terry Ryan that took the better part of two years to realize Justin Morneau belongs in the majors?
Devin (Durham, NC)
I thought the Yankees got by the Twins because they won 3 games in the ALDS
Gino (New York)
I thought the twins would have gone to the series had Radke been able to pitch a good game...but he didnt
Adam (Houghton, MI)
What do you mean bitter Buzz? Twins fans have a legitmate reason to be angered. The Yankees had nearly 4 times the payroll we had.
Jon (San Diego)
Everyone forgets that Minnesota blew not 1, not 2, but 3 games that they led to the Yanks. If you can't hold on to the lead, you don't deserve to win.
steve (beantown)
ah, and now the twins fans are moaning and complaining-as a sox fan, all i can say is its good to have you aboard the pity train
Sunny (Frederick)
they had 4 times the payroll of the Marlins last year too, big deal.
Sean (New Jersey)
Tanyon Sturtze getting loose...I don't think even he can blow this lead
Kadidal (New York)
Obviously it's not going to happen, but is Vazquez now the game 7 starter?
Buzzmaster (11:46 PM)
Well, it's worth thinking about what role he might play in the World Series. They've got to shut down Brown at this point, right?
Craig (Brick, NJ)
Brown has more left in him, hes proven that he can bounce back
Steve (New York)
Wow, game 7? He's probably the WS game 3 starter.
Mike (Blacksburg, Va)
I don't think so. I'd like having a stater in my bullpen against a team like the Cards. You might need a LONG relief appearence
Howie (Des Moines (Formerly of NY))
After tonite, yeah, you shut downBrown
Matt (Myrtle Beach)
Absolutely not...Kevin Brown is still the better pitcher....why would they shut him down after the game he pitched against the Twins...it was ONLY three earned runs!
Jake (Cincinnati, OH)
Brown is just flat out bad in Fenway
Howie (Des Moines (Formerly of NY))
question for Sox fans...if its close tomorrow night in the late innings, and lets say it goes late into the night with extras and such...does schilling come in to pitch?
Ajay (St Petersburg, Russia)
Shouldn't the Buzzmaster be neutral?
Buzzmaster (11:51 PM)
Who is Buzz rooting for, Ajay?
jay (baltimore)
yes schilling must pitch. It can't hurt any worse since the pitching will be tired anyways
Mike (Boston)
nope...save him for next year
Greg (PSU)
No, you shut schilling down, let him get his surgery and focus on next year. Dont risk serious damage for a salvage win.
Mike (Blacksburg, Va)
Its a waste; Schilling would do well to rest, and using him in a game wins that one game; you need to win four.
Buster Olney (11:52 PM)
End of the seventh: If the Yankees finish off the Red Sox in the next two games, i'd guess Joe would go with the same rotation he had in this series. Brown was terrible, undoubtedly, but I don't think Vazquez was so good that he would engender confidence, and Vazquez is a great team guy who would fully embrace any role. I haven't checked on the numbers with Vazquez or Brown against the Astros or Cardinals, but that stuff will probably come into play, as well, given that Brown and Vazquez are refugees from the NL...
Devin (Durham, NC)
Buzz, you're obviously a Devil Ray's fan
Buzzmaster (11:52 PM)
Darn, tried to keep it a secret. I've got my B.J. Upton jersey on.
YankeeEd (Boston)
I don't know which promo's are worse: this year's "House M.D." or last year's "Skin."
Buzzmaster (11:53 PM)
Now there's a question worth debating in the 8th inning of a 17-8 game.
Johnathan (NYC)
HER FATHER IS THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY!
Zach (St. Louis)
I've got my House M.D. jersey on.
Zach (St. Louis)
I can't believe how clever I am being, yet I still have not been posted. This kind of hurts my feelings.
Greg (NYC)
Longest postseason game in history was a 5:01, 13 inning game between Cleveland and Boston on Oct. 2nd 1954. This is at about 4:10 or so now.
Buster Olney (11:55 PM)
End of the seventh, Part II: Anybody else surprised that Francona benched Varitek? I mean, they didn't play Thursday or Friday; why raise the white flag with a move like that at any point, even with a one-sided score? You might do it during the season to rest your catcher, but what would they rest him for? The only way it makes sense is if Varitek has some nagging injury they haven't told us about.
Jeff (Boston by way of NY)
Buster, you stole my "white flag" line. i'm suing
Todd (San Diego)
Wakefield wore Varitek out...he was having to move back there...something he usually doesn't have to do with Pedro and Schill
Greg (Nashua, NH)
Probably to get Mirabella some AB's in case they need him for pinch hitting later in the series.
Ross (Missoula, Mt)
Who knows maybe Mirabelli is the catalyst they've been missing, it could happen
Pete K (Rochester)
We sound like announcers reaching for any topic no matter how weak at this point of the game.
Buzzmaster (12:00 AM)
Nine outs to go.
Jacob (Washington DC)
It'll take another hour...
Buster Olney (12:01 AM)
Sanjay: I missed that, sorry. But I'm not sure Derek Lowe is going to offer much more resistance than I would with my 40-year-old rag arm...
Barry (Philly)
This is the point where announcers start the most bizarre discussions...topic suggestions anyone?
Rob (NY)
Come on, I have a bet with the guys here that I can get you to post a comment about unfrozen caveman centerfielder!!!
Buzzmaster (12:03 AM)
Do I get a cut?
A.P. (CALI)
Damon is the Man! he can get it from shallow center to second in only two hops
Zach (St. Louis)
And this is what we have been reduced to... "Lean on Me" and shots of Sox fans. Like this story hasn't been told enough.
drew (boston)
so how come you have to be an Insider to read Bill Simmons' archived columns?
Buzzmaster (12:07 AM)
You don't. There was a breif problem recently when his columns got put behind the Insider wall, but it was fixed. His columns will always be free.
Jason (NY)
Buster, I just ordered your book (during this game). Will it upset a die hard Yankee fan like myself?
YankeeEd (Boston)
What a beautiful sight: Yankee fans belting out some cheers in Fenway.
Rob (State College)
This is more boring than the game itself. Why aren't more comments being posted?
Buzzmaster (12:11 AM)
Sorry Rob, Buzz got momentarily called away.
Buzzmaster (12:12 AM)
Should the Sox just give Matsui the Bonds treatment?
Mike (Blacksburg, Va)
Ok, that was unecessary.
Joe (NY)
wow.... can't stop matsui
Greg (NYC)
Matsui just tied his record for the most RBI in an LCS game for the SECOND time this series!
Buster Olney (12:12 AM)
Jason -- No, you won't. I wrote about the O'Neill-Tino years, and the players on those teams earned a heck of a lot of respect for the way they played and conducted themselves...
Mike (PA)
Godzilla has whiped out Boston
Justin Zeth (Altoona, PA)
If the 'Bonds treatment' means hitting him between the 5 and the 5, then by all means yes.
DP (Jersey)
How bad does Simmons feel for saying that the Matsui-Nixon matchup was a wash.
Jay (West Texas)
Someone is going to get drilled
Howie (Des Moines (Formerly of NY))
Buster, how would you compare the teams then to this year's team?
DP (Jersey)
35 hits? Last time I saw something like this I was playing the "Rookie" setting on MLB 2003.
Mike (Blacksburg, Va)
He's already admited to feeling bad about that in one of Second Guessing articles, I think.
Buster Olney (12:17 AM)
Howie -- Those teams won 4 in 5 years and had an incredible chemistry and -- more to the point -- exceptional pitching, and that allowed them to sustain success for a long period. Many of those guys had years and years of shared experience, because so many of them had come up through the farm system together; these Yankees are mostly cobbled together as free agents and deals that involve cash. None of those teams had the firepower in lineup slots 1-4 that this team has.
Mark (RPV, CA)
Bad call on Ruben...the Umps just want to go home at this point.
Joe (Boston)
Isnt it about time that a yankee batter gets hit by a pitch and a brawl breaks out?
Jay (West Texas)
I'm home and i want to go home
John (Irmo)
Do you think the RedSox will do any offseason house cleaning? Will Pedro be back?
drew (boston)
anyone think that Theo is attacking Bill James with a slide rule about now?
don (australia)
all year people say yankees dont have pitching, hey who needs pitching!!!!
Howie (Des Moines (Formerly of NY))
Thanks, Buster. I'm looking forward to reading the book.
Buster Olney (12:20 AM)
No, I don't think Pedro will be back. Red Sox are going to cut back on their payroll, and I don't think they're going to offer him more than a couple of years; there is a lot of speculation among baseball folk that Anaheim will offer him more...
Buzzmaster (12:20 AM)
All right, as we go to the bottom of the 9th, does anyone out there, especially non-diehard Sox fans, want to make an argument that the Sox can become the first team to rally from 3-0? Anyone?
Greg (NYC)
Nope on that Buzzmaster. Look at their faces.
Jason (NY)
Pedro, Vlad, KRod, Escobar, Colon. That would be nasty.
Mike (Blacksburg, Va)
I don't even think the die-hards will take that with Lowe starting tommorow, Buzz.
Buster Olney (12:22 AM)
Howie and Adam, thanks... And Steve, you are right: This is Boston Massacre, Part II. Twenty-two hits and 19 runs in a playoff game qualifies...
Dave (Pittsburgh)
Not a chance buzzmaster, stick a fork in them, this team is done
Ajay (St Petersburg, Russia)
There is no way the Sox can come back from 3-0 down. They might fight really hard tomorrow, but if Lowe's their starting pitcher, the Sox season will probably be over tomorrow night
lj (Charlotte, NC)
didn't lowe already pitch tonight? It felt like everyone did.
don (australia)
buzzmaster that last comment are you that bored that you statred to drink say around the 7th inning?
Buzzmaster (12:23 AM)
Of the NLCS.
Rob (State College)
I'm surprised that you post all the comments about drilling Yankee hitters and let them go by without comments to the contrary as if it's okay to take out your frustration like hockey losers.
Buster Olney (12:24 AM)
No kidding. This game has gone on so long it feels like Lonborg started against Stottlemyre.
Buzzmaster (12:24 AM)
Easy Rob, I think they were all comments wondering if it was going to happen, more than advocating it. Nobody wants to encourage anyone getting hit ... at least not in the head.
Jacob (Washington DC)
Imagine how good this team would have been with a healthy Giambi
Mark (Albany, NY)
Or Vic Raschi locking horns with Ellis Kinder.
Stu (NY, but Neutral)
OK Buzz, what was the turning point of this series? The 8th inning of game 1, Lieber in game 2, or something else?
Buster Olney (12:26 AM)
Jacob: I don't think the Yankees have any expectation that Giambi will be a great player again... There are a lot of questions about his physical regression that no one will ever know the answers to, except Jason. NY Post wrote the other day that Steinbrenner might try to find some way to void the last four years of his contract, though I doubt that could happen.
Buzzmaster (12:26 AM)
I think it has to be Schilling coming out as something less than Schilling. That didn't "cost" the Sox the series, but it certainly set the tone.
Ryan T (St. Bonaventure, NY)
I'm a diehard Yankees fan, and I think that Giambi is horribly overrated. I much rather have Mattingly and Tino out there. Hell, even give me Kevin Maas in his prime.
Howie (Des Moines (Formerly of NY))
Actually, I think they're better without Giambi. Honestly, I do...think of how many runs were saved by the fielding of Clark/Olerud this season.
Buster Olney (12:27 AM)
They just announced this is the longest game in postseason history.
dave (texas)
he never has been the same player he was in Oakland.
Owen (Valdez, Alaska)
Don't the Yankees have a no-facial hair policy? Why does Gordon have a 'stache?
Rob (Boston)
The Loss of Schilling is no doubt the turning point of this series Buzz, thanks for pointing out the obvious!
Buzzmaster (12:28 AM)
Dude, someone asked my opinion. Take your bitterness elsewhere.
Buster Olney (12:28 AM)
Owen -- Players can have moustaches, as long as they're neat and clean (in George's eyes...)
drew (boston)
I don't know if this was discussed earlier: Buster, what do you think of the comments by Bonds' trainer about illegal supplements?
Buster Olney (12:30 AM)
Drew -- It's one grain in a desert of steroid stuff that's occurred in baseball over the last decade, I would suspect. The union and the owners (to a lesser extent) should be ashamed...
Buster Olney (12:32 AM)
Folks, my final bit of in-game analysis: This was appalling baseball, if you are a purist, something better if you're a Yankee fan, something nightmarish if you love the Red Sox. But we'll remember it forever. See you tomorrow...
Buzzmaster (12:33 AM)
And that's the game. Thanks for checking out The Show for both the NLCS and ALCS today. We'll be back tomorrow at 4 ET with Game 4 of the NLCS! And thanks to Buster Olney for all the updates and sticking around to field some questions.
Showing: 0 of 0 comments
Comments that include profanity, or personal attacks, or antisocial behavior such as "spamming" or "trolling," or other inappropriate comments or material will be removed from the site. We will take steps to block users who violate any of our terms of use. You are fully responsible for the content that you post.
THIS WEEK'S CHATS
- 10:00 AMThe Morning Buzz
- 10:00 AMYour Take on First Take
- 11:00 AMFantasy Football Focus
- 11:30 AMESPNChicago Bears Chat
- 12:00 PMNBA with John Hollinger
- 12:00 PMESPNBoston on Pats
- 12:30 PMMMA's Dan Henderson
- 1:00 PMESPN Radio's Van Pelt
- 1:00 PMNCAA FB with Tim Griffin
- 1:00 PMNFL blogger Mike Sando
- 1:30 PMPoker's Joe Cada
- 2:00 PMNFL with Bill Williamson
- 2:00 PMNFL analyst Lomas Brown
- 2:30 PMInside College Hockey
- 3:00 PMNASCAR with K. Lee Davis
- 3:00 PMNCAA FB with Ted Miller
- 3:00 PMESPN's Hockey Night
- 3:00 PMESPNDallas' Richard Durrett
- 4:00 PMFootball Scientist KC Joyner
- 4:00 PMNCAA FB with Rittenberg
- 4:00 PMFirst Take's Skip Bayless
- 6:00 PMStuart Scott's Two-Way
- 10:00 AMThe Morning Buzz
- 10:00 AMYour Take on First Take
- 11:00 AMFantasy Injuries
- 11:00 AMESPNDallas' Ed Werder
- 12:00 PMTennis star Andre Agassi
- 12:00 PMBoxing with Dan Rafael
- 1:00 PMNFL with Pat Yasinskas
- 1:00 PMMLB Insider Keith Law
- 1:30 PMNFL HOFer Anthony Munoz
- 1:30 PMChris Forsberg on Celtics
- 2:00 PMRecruiting w/Paul Biancardi
- 2:00 PMNCAAF with Bruce Feldman
- 3:00 PMNBA with J.A. Adande
- 3:30 PMCowboys with Calvin Watkins
- 4:00 PMHeisman with Ryan McCrystal
- 4:00 PMMLG's APG
- 10:00 AMThe Morning Buzz
- 10:00 AMYour Take on First Take
- 11:00 AMFantasy Football Focus
- 12:00 PMNFL analyst Drew Bennett
- 12:00 PMNCAA with Heather Dinich
- 12:30 PMNASCAR's Jimmie Johnson
- 1:00 PMNCAA FB with Chris Low
- 1:00 PMESPNChicago Bears Chat
- 2:00 PMNASCAR with Ryan McGee
- 2:00 PMNCAA FB with Schlabach
- 2:00 PMMLB with Gordon Edes
- 3:00 PMNBA with Chris Sheridan
- 3:00 PMBCS with Brad Edwards
- 4:00 PMNHL with Scott Burnside
- 4:00 PMNFL with Gary Horton
- 7:30 PMMNF: Titans vs. Texans!
- 10:00 AMThe Morning Buzz
- 10:00 AMYour Take on First Take
- 11:00 AMFantasy Injuries
- 12:00 PMNFL blogger Matt Mosley
- 12:00 PMNFL with Jimmy Johnson
- 1:00 PMNCAAF w/Graham Watson
- 1:00 PMNBA Insider Chad Ford
- 1:00 PMESPNChicago MLB Chat
- 2:00 PMNASCAR with Terry Blount
- 2:00 PMNFL blogger Kevin Seifert
- 2:00 PMNCAA FB with Pat Forde
- 3:00 PMNHL with EJ Hradek
- 3:00 PMESPNDallas' Tim MacMahon
- 4:00 PMNFL with James Walker
- 10:00 AMThe Morning Buzz
- 10:00 AMYour Take on First Take
- 11:00 AMFantasy Football Focus
- 11:00 AMNFL with Chris Mortensen
- 12:00 PMNFL with Matt Williamson
- 12:00 PMNCAA FB with Tim Griffin
- 12:30 PMFormer QB Bobby Hebert
- 1:00 PMMMA Live host Jon Anik
- 1:00 PMFootball guru Mel Kiper
- 2:00 PMMLB with Jim Callis
- 2:30 PMMavericks' Donnie Nelson
- 3:00 PMFantasy Sports Focus
- 3:00 PMScouts' football recruiting
- 3:00 PMNCAA FB with Bennett
- 4:00 PMESPNChicago Hawks Chat
- 4:00 PMNCAA FB with Beano Cook
- 4:00 PMRadio's Ryen Russillo
"SportsNation" on ESPN2!
WE'RE OFF UNTIL MONDAY, NOV. 30! BUT KEEP SENDING US WEIRD WEB CLIPS!
Member comments together with Member Names may be used on TV and other ESPN media platforms.