Official 2018 MLB Season Thread

[Reck]

Who is pitching tomorrow? Sox are definitely losing that one. No sale, no chance.

They better win tonight after dominating it.

[Robz4000]

McCann just missing the walkoff too. Red Sox are the team of destiny.

[midnightpulp]

Kimbrel is trash.

[Robz4000]

Well shit, here we go...

[midnightpulp]

Game of the year though.

[Robz4000]

Hell of a catch.

[midnightpulp]

Benintendi!!!!

[monosylab1k]

HOLY SHIT

[Robz4000]

Who is pitching tomorrow? Sox are definitely losing that one. No sale, no chance.

They better win tonight after dominating it.

I might put money on the Red Sox winning tomorrow. Astros are ready for vacation.

[Spurminator]

Ugh. What a game. Dammit.

[midnightpulp]

Hell of a catch.

That was a team of destiny catch indeed. You called it

[monosylab1k]

There has never been a soccer match played that was as exciting as this game.

[Robz4000]

Honestly, this postseason hasn't been all that exciting. Last year and the year before were better. Great game regardless.

[Clipper Nation]

IDK, I still like Houston's chances a lot. Still don't trust Boston's pitching.

[Barfunk]

Welp. At least we are allowed to be wrong our predictions lol.

[lefty20]

Ballsy fucking dive there, fucking game over if he whiffs it.

[midnightpulp]

There has never been a soccer match played that was as exciting as this game.

:lol

[Robz4000]

MLB about to get exactly what they want with LA vs Boston.

[Reck]

Will our defiant buddy spursreport ever show his face here again I wonder? Lol

[midnightpulp]

Honestly, this postseason hasn't been all that exciting. Last year and the year before were better. Great game regardless.

All the Brewers/Dodgers games have come down the last AB, but the brand of baseball those teams isn't too exciting. Chase and strikeout city. On the other hand, when Craig Kimbrel is in, it's never a dull moment. I don't how Reck is surviving.

[Reck]

All the Brewers/Dodgers games have come down the last AB, but the brand of baseball those teams isn't too exciting. Chase and strikeout city. On the other hand, when Craig Kimbrel is in, it's never a dull moment. I don't how Reck (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=14412) is surviving.

Not watching the game live helps. Twitter and live responses for me.

[midnightpulp]

Game was incredible in how Boston's outfield prevented like 4 to 6 runs. That Betts throw was simply incredible.

[Mugen]

Damn what a game...the fucking balls on Benitendi

[midnightpulp]

Damn what a game...the fucking balls on Benitendi

We had our own version with the Bellinger catch. Not the exact same circumstances, but Cody doesn't make that play, Cain has a sure double with zero outs. Been a wild post-season in terms of game saving catches.

[Mugen]

We had our own version with the Bellinger catch. Not the exact same circumstances, but Cody doesn't make that play, Cain has a sure double with zero outs. Been a wild post-season in terms of game saving catches.

Belli's catch was insane no doubt, but that Benitendi lay out was on a different tier tbh. God I hope Boston closes it out today or Saturday.

[Reck]

Playing with house money basically. Let's get shit done.

[midnightpulp]

Playing with house money basically. Let's get shit done.

Might be a sacrifice game for the Sox. Let Price go as long as he can if he gets shelled, so you have fresh pen arms for Saturday. When (not if) Price gives up 4 runs through 3 innings, don't pull him. Then I would actually bring in Kimbrel if it's a blowout to get him work (like a batter's worth). Seems the longer Kimbrel sits, the worse he is.

[midnightpulp]

Sox are masters on two strikes.

[midnightpulp]

Sloppy AB by Mookie

[Reck]

Sloppy AB by Mookie

Seems anxious to hit a homerun. This looks to be a bad night for him at the plate. Hopefully Verlander gets knocked out soon. High pitch count already. What a golden opportunity they had there.

[midnightpulp]

JD with the shot. Verlander got hosed but that was a shitty follow up pitch.

[Reck]

Fuck yeah. It’s working.

get Verlander the fuck outta there as quick as possible.

JD Coming through with his promise to the Astros. Making a big mistake letting me go.

[Reck]

Kinsler the cuck and rally killer.

Cora has been a master with them moves but I don’t get the Kinsler thing. Must give great blowjobs or something.

[midnightpulp]

Kinsler the cuck and rally killer.

Cora has been a master with them moves but I don’t get the Kinsler thing. Must give great blowjobs or something.

Like pops love affair with Michael Finley back in the daym

[lefty20]

Price is finally earning some of that 200mil cheese.

[midnightpulp]

This is the David Price game. 9ks, making plays. No walks. When David Price is looking like Koufax, it's team of destiny shit. Robz4000 has a feel for this stuff. Called it.

[lefty20]

GG Boston. Proved most of us wrong this series.

[midnightpulp]

Devers with the dagger. Damn. Wanted to see more games between these teams.

[Robz4000]

Like I said, Houston just fell apart after Game 1 in all aspects. They aren't the same team we've watched the past two-three years; something besides injuries is up. Doesn't help the Red Sox have really elevated their game.

[monosylab1k]

Houston has gotten curbstomped for the majority of the series, but Astros fans are gonna just whine about the interference call, as if it made any difference :lmao

Also, karma for cheating :lmao

[Reck]

Why is Verlander still even in this game?

[lefty20]

From Spring Training

Earlier this week, Houston pitcher Dallas Keuchel was asked about the possibility of the Astros having a World Series hangover in 2018.

In his response, Keuchel put the North Siders on blast:

"We're not the Cubs," he said. "I firmly believe we have better players."

Cubs in 17 - Lost LCS in 5
Astros in 18 - ...

[Reck]

Just wait until Cora puts Kimbrel to “close” the game and series. :lol


Betts finally gets that stolen catch from last night.

[midnightpulp]

Lol. Betts with almost the exact same play as last night.

[Reck]

Price about to get that elusive post season win. Lol

[djohn2oo8]

Cngrats Reck :tu

[midnightpulp]

Recks chest tightening a bit.

[Reck]

Cngrats Reck (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=14412) :tu

Thanks but game isn't over. Can always count on the Boston bullpen to gift wrap wins away.

[Reck]

Recks chest tightening a bit.

Dont bring in Kimbrel and I'll be ok. Even if this turns into a loss.

[midnightpulp]

Cngrats Reck :tu

Far from over, buddy.

[Reck]

Ride Eovaldi till the end. Empty the tank, fuck it.

[Reck]

I have a feeling Red Sox are gonna need an extra 2 for safety.

[Reck]

Astros Manager is defeated. Didn't even bother to challenge that.

[midnightpulp]

3 outs to go.

[Reck]

3 outs to go.

Kimbrel up and warming up. LOL Boston

[Reck]

This looks to be a bad night for him at the plate.

He had to have one I guess.

[midnightpulp]

Kimbrel. Uh oh :lol. I have a feeling he's gonna be on. It's just Bostons night.

[Reck]

Stupid fuck.

[AlexJones]

I am so fucking happy for David Price.

[Reck]

spursreport, what's up?

:lol

[AlexJones]

Sale going game 1? Whoever gets out of the NL is going to get smashed in the World Series. 5 games max imo

[Reck]

I'm shocked myself though. Goes to show you cant have too much confidence.

It blinds.

[midnightpulp]

Congrats Reck. It's gonna take a monumental effort and a shitload of luck for the Dodgers or Brewers to beat the Sox. The greatest 2 strike hitting/2 out hitting team I've ever seen. Don't see how any of either staff can match up. Boston can hit velocity, they don't chase, they work counts.

[midnightpulp]

I'm shocked myself though. Goes to show you cant have too much confidence.

It blinds.

Cora really has his finger on the pulse of this team. We all :lol at Kinsler, and he had some great ABs tonight. Then he went with Moreland over the red hot Pearce, and he went 2-4. Both men were on when Devers stuck the dagger in. And then he goes with Kimbrel again, who looked more like his old self.

[Reck]

Congrats Reck. It's gonna take a monumental effort and a shitload of luck for the Dodgers or Brewers to beat the Sox. The greatest 2 strike hitting/2 out hitting team I've ever seen. Don't see how any of either staff can match up. Boston can hit velocity, they don't chase, they work counts.

Thanks, bro.

Let's hope Dodgers take care of business tomorrow. I feel that would be a more balanced matchup.

[Reck]

JBJ ALCS MVP

[FrostKing]

Running away to the DH American League could only work for so long.

i joke, they went on a deserved run last season but I cannot ignore this burnout when judging the entire core. The 1996 Braves returned to the WS...

If Astros return with Verlander next season to the ALCS, then it is rewritten.

[spursreport]

Why is Verlander still even in this game?

Congrats on another world series. Boston proved me wrong. Better team they are. Enjoy it man. Unsung heros and their big names stepping up. Price overcame his demons. The guy has always been talented. Just had mental hurdles in October.

[spursreport]

spursreport, what's up?

:lol


And you weren’t wrong. I was scared of Boston from the start. Scared they would surprise me. :lol How does the pitching staff look long term via farm system? Just curious. And no, I’m not jumping on the wagon. Just curious to see if they have potiental to get better next year.

[Fabbs]

Like I said, Houston just fell apart after Game 1 in all aspects. They aren't the same team we've watched the past two-three years; something besides injuries is up. Doesn't help the Red Sox have really elevated their game.
Attitude?
Gonzales bottom 9th one on one out.
WTF was with his whining to the ump? Twice.
The 1st one was probably a strike, at absolute worst it was on the border. Gonzales acted like it was 4 inches off.
The strikeout pitch was easily a strike, not even close.
He stands glaring at the ump doing the victim whining.

[Fabbs]

Me before the series started.

The Stros just barely got by thanks to plenty of help from moron Dodgers.
So cut it with the "unbeatable" crap.

In fact I'll call BoSox. Their retard manager might blow a game or two like Dodger manager did, but I'll still say Bosox.

3 games in:

Dead on with my take.

We haven't seen the fine gentlemen spursreport here for a few days now. :lol

I said Boston could pushed this Astros team to 6, and they have. Still think Astros will win it but things just got a whole lot more interesting.

[djohn2oo8]

Cngrats mid and Reck. Should be a good series

[Reck]

What's with all the cheating going on in the post season? Now the Dodgers are suppsedly using live video to pick up signs and shit. :lol

[Reck]

Jesus Christ, Dodgers are melting down so hard right now.

3 back to back hits, 2 doubles, 4 RBIs.

Get Ryu outta there.

[Reck]

Make that 4...bt yeah let's keep this guy in. :lol

[lefty20]

Ugh! Gotta suffer through another game at Miller park, at least.

[midnightpulp]

Garbage fuckin Ryu.

[midnightpulp]

Garbage fuckin Ryu.

[midnightpulp]

Make that 4...bt yeah let's keep this guy in. :lol

You have to. Don't want to burn pen arms for tomorrow. Just ride Ryu as long as you can.

[Reck]

Garbage fuckin Ryu.

What's with asian pitchers burning out so quick? They dont seem to last and their performance drop is so dramatic.

The fuckers really commit to failing hard. Ryu reminds me of Daisuke and tazawa.

And I dont know man, as I'm writing this Ryu is getting raped. I guess though at this point, they are not winning this game.

It's out of hand so might as well teach him a lesson and leave him there for at least 5 innings.

[midnightpulp]

Popovich blowout game. Pull the starters, leave Ryu in so you don't tire out the pen trying to salvage this shitshow. Fucking not just :lol Japanese pitchers, but :lol Asian pitchers, right ClipperNation?

[midnightpulp]

What's with asian pitchers burning out so quick? They dont seem to last and their performance drop is so dramatic.

The fuckers really commit to failing hard. Ryu reminds me of Daisuke and tazawa.

And I dont know man, as I'm writing this Ryu is getting raped. I guess though at this point, they are not winning this game.

It's out of hand so might as well teach him a lesson and leave him there for at least 5 innings.

I don't know about Korea, but in Japan, their high school baseball scene is masochistically demanding. You have kids throwing 200 pitches per game because it's considered shameful to leave the game too early.

[Reck]

Dodgers might yet come back and even win this.

Currently rallying and just knocked out Miley.

[Robz4000]

Game Seven: best words in sports. Doesn't matter though, Red Sox are destroying either team in 5 games max.

[midnightpulp]

Guess game 7 was in the stars. So Kershaw will be under the spotlight again (he won't start, but I expect Roberts' gameplan to ride Buehler for 5 or 6 and then bring in Kershaw in middle relief. Jansen to close if the Dodgers are winning).

[FrostKing]

Dodgers ready to create rings after Game 4. Setting up for Brewers Game 6 & 7 steal.
Called it before Game 5. They ain't winning a Game 7 in Milwaukee

[midnightpulp]

:lol Game going according to the script. Dodgers taking a 1 run lead into the 4th. If Buehler doesn't implode and nurses the lead, expect Kershaw to start the 6th inning and try to bridge to Jansen. Yet again, another legacy moment for Peyton Kershaw. We'll see what happens. Gonna be interesting.

[Fabbs]

:lol Game going according to the script. Dodgers taking a 1 run lead into the 4th. If Buehler doesn't implode and nurses the lead, expect Kershaw to start the 6th inning and try to bridge to Jansen. Yet again, another legacy moment for Peyton Kershaw. We'll see what happens. Gonna be interesting.
Be nice if it happens, but I don't see either team remaining scoreless the rest of the way.
Kershaw scares me, even with his recent breakout playoff performance.
Pulling for the Dogs due to friends, but bear no ill will towards Brewers. Good org.

[Robz4000]

What a fucking catch.

[Reck]

Congrats midnightpulp. You are invited to to dance with the BoSox.

[midnightpulp]

Puig with maybe dagger. Ain't over. Baez and Jansen can be shaky.

[lefty20]

Jansen gets 4 outs and Kersh shuts the door in the 9th, is that the plan here?

[Spurtacular]

Brewers not ready for prime time.

[lefty20]

God damn Kike!

[midnightpulp]

Dodgers wasted the kill shot. Brewers still in reach.

[lefty20]

Gratz Mid!

I really want another 7 games WS but I don't think Dodgers make past 5 Games.

[Reck]

Game Seven: best words in sports. Doesn't matter though, Red Sox are destroying either team in 5 games max.

You sound like every Astros fan before the ALCS series. I dont think it'll be that easy.

At least I hope they dont come in with a higher than thou attitude that sunk the Astros. They need to be ready and expect a fight.

And ultimately I think they will have that mindset. Congrats to you and mid.

[baseline bum]

Congrats on the pennant mid.

:bobo

[Mugen]

Back again and we're gonna do it this time!!!!
-Clayton Kershaw

[midnightpulp]

Congrats on the pennant mid.

:bobo

Thanks bro. Happy to be back to the WS, but I don't see how the Hell we matchup with Boston.

[midnightpulp]

Back again and we're gonna do it this time!!!!
-Clayton Kershaw

Kind of feels like that 2014 NBA Finals series heading in. Heartbreak the previous season, facing a supposedly unbeatable foe with league's best player (all apologies to Trout, but Mookie Betts has been the best player in baseball this season). Miami was supposed to smoke the Spurs in 4 or 5. I don't see how the Dodgers are going to match up, just have to hope Boston's assholes get tight.

[Reck]

Back again and we're gonna do it this time!!!!
-Clayton Kershaw

Pulling a Timmy. :lol

Better back it up.

[Mugen]

Kind of feels like that 2014 NBA Finals series heading in. Heartbreak the previous season, facing a supposedly unbeatable foe with league's best player (all apologies to Trout, but Mookie Betts has been the best player in baseball this season). Miami was supposed to smoke the Spurs in 4 or 5. I don't see how the Dodgers are going to match up, just have to hope Boston's assholes get tight.

Bats woke up, mid. We gonna battle. We take 1 in Fenway and I like our chances.

[midnightpulp]

Bats woke up, mid. We gonna battle. We take 1 in Fenway and I like our chances.

In any event we found the future heart of the rotation in Buehler. He's gonna be special.

[Mugen]

In any event we found the future heart of the rotation in Buehler. He's gonna be special.

Yep, kid is the real deal.

[Clipper Nation]

Pulling a Timmy. :lol

Better back it up.
Problem is that Timmy actually showed up in the playoffs, unlike Kerchoke.

[FrostKing]

Kind of feels like that 2014 NBA Finals series heading in. Heartbreak the previous season, facing a supposedly unbeatable foe with league's best player (all apologies to Trout, but Mookie Betts has been the best player in baseball this season). Miami was supposed to smoke the Spurs in 4 or 5. I don't see how the Dodgers are going to match up, just have to hope Boston's assholes get tight.
Dodgers are the Heat in this analogy. Weaker team hoping for opponent to choke

[Mugen]

Pretty critical for LA to win tonight especially if Roberts mistakenly sticks with Ryu going into Game 2.

Of course, you never know which Kersh you're gonna get in the postseason so i could easily see Boston chasing him by the 4th tbh

[midnightpulp]

Pretty critical for LA to win tonight especially if Roberts mistakenly sticks with Ryu going into Game 2.

Of course, you never know which Kersh you're gonna get in the postseason so i could easily see Boston chasing him by the 4th tbh

Gonna be tough. Have to steal game one. Hope the offensive approach is more small ball than big swings.

[Reck]

Rain in the area so this could be a loooooong night.

I agree the Dodgers need game one more. But I also think Red Sox are done with their streak of not losing on the road. They'll probably drop 2 away so they also need game 1 and 2 at home. :lol

[Reck]

Red Sox draw blood first.

[Reck]

JD you're fat ass cant run.

Gifting outs may be lethal.

[midnightpulp]

I'm good with Kershaw so far. Some terrible defense let him down. I'll be happy with 3 runs through 6 from him against this powerhouse lineup

[Reck]

I'm good with Kershaw so far. Some terrible defense let him down. I'll be happy with 3 runs through 6 from him against this powerhouse lineup

LOL Sale is done. 50 pitches through 2. Will be shocked if he is left out there after the third.

:lol Kinsler

[midnightpulp]

What a dumb fuckin pitch choice.

[Reck]

Dodgers are flirting with disaster. JBJ giveth, JBJ taketh away.

As long as they're putting multiple men on bases, this is just one inning from being blown out.

[midnightpulp]

Dodgers are flirting with disaster. JBJ giveth, JBJ taketh away.

As long as they're putting multiple men on bases, this is just one inning from being blown out.

:lol No one can keep the Sox off the bases. Just a disciplined, stone cold team.

[midnightpulp]

Love David Freese's approach.

[midnightpulp]

Atta boy Manny.

[Reck]

Boston beautiful pitchers. Get Sale the fuck out of there.

[Reck]

LOL Sale is done. 50 pitches through 2. Will be shocked if he is left out there after the third.

I hate being right about this stuff.

[Reck]

Never have I seen a team get into so many double plays as the Red Sox do.

On a second look, he's safe.

[Reck]

Holy fuck, WE CANNOT LOSE JD.

[Reck]

midnightpulp Kinsler AKA the cancer is keeping you guys in this game. He's our gift to you.

[Reck]

Kershaw is dealing tonight. I knew this series was gonna be hard fought.

[midnightpulp]

Quietly one of the best starts of Kershaws playoff career.

[midnightpulp]

Kershaw is dealing tonight. I knew this series was gonna be hard fought.

He is. Those runs in the 1st weren't really on him.

[midnightpulp]

midnightpulp Kinsler AKA the cancer is keeping you guys in this game. He's our gift to you.

:lol. Kike Hernandez is the Dodger version.

[Reck]

Sale was left in there too long. Should have been gone after 3 innings.

[midnightpulp]

Betts is so damn good.

[midnightpulp]

Here's the classic Dodger blow up inning.

[monosylab1k]

Clayton Manning :lol

[Will Hunting]

Clayton Manning :lol
Was there even a question that Kershaw and Sale would both choke big time tonight :lol

[Will Hunting]

I don’t think I’ve ever seen more 2 our RBIs during a playoff run than what this Boston team has produced.

[Reck]

Kinsler...what a fucking cock sucker. Rally killer.

[Boston Pancake]

I don’t think I’ve ever seen more 2 our RBIs during a playoff run than what this Boston team has produced.

Sup Will, how you fahkin feelin about a wicked awesome Boston Sweep? Sox, Pats, Celtics, & Bruins are all takin the fahkin crown all in a row! When it happens I’m gonna fahkin jump off the top of the Green Monstah and die and go to Sports Heaven so I can fahkin party with Red Auerback and Ted Williams’ headless body!

[Reck]

Joe kelly shocking me.

[HarlemHeat37]

I hate everything about Boston sports, especially their fans, but this Red Sox team is so likable, for once:lol unlike those scumbag teams with PED Papi, Curt Schilling, etc..so fun to watch..

Dodgers are tough to watch, everything is all or nothing..

[midnightpulp]

I don’t think I’ve ever seen more 2 our RBIs during a playoff run than what this Boston team has produced.

They're fantastic at making in at bat adjustments.

[midnightpulp]

I hate everything about Boston sports, especially their fans, but this Red Sox team is so likable, for once:lol unlike those scumbag teams with PED Papi, Curt Schilling, etc..so fun to watch..

Dodgers are tough to watch, everything is all or nothing..

Dodgers play TTO baseball. However their gameplan is much better this game than it was against the Brewers, but guys like Hernandez still haven't adjusted.

[midnightpulp]

Red Sox night.

[HarlemHeat37]

Dodgers play TTO baseball. However their gameplan is much better this game than it was against the Brewers, but guys like Hernandez still haven't adjusted.

They were the team I hated betting on most during the RS..never knew whether you were going to get 10 runs on 6 home runs or 1 run on 2 hits all night:lol

[midnightpulp]

They were the team I hated betting on most during the RS..never knew whether you were going to get 10 runs on 6 home runs or 1 run on 2 hits all night:lol

Yeah, these all or nothing teams are easily shutdown in the post season. But Dodgers are better tonight at making contact.

[midnightpulp]

Fuckin Roberts. Pedro was on. Screw this match up bullshit. I don't trust soft throwers like Wood in late inning situations.

[Will Hunting]

I hate everything about Boston sports, especially their fans, but this Red Sox team is so likable, for once:lol unlike those scumbag teams with PED Papi, Curt Schilling, etc..so fun to watch..

Dodgers are tough to watch, everything is all or nothing..
I don’t understand what wasn’t to like about Ortiz, however Schilling is probably one of the top 10 least likeable people in the history of baseball.

[Will Hunting]

ANOTHER fucking amazing pinch hitting decision by Cora.

[Will Hunting]

Fuckin Roberts. Pedro was on. Screw this match up bullshit. I don't trust soft throwers like Wood in late inning situations.
Well this was as spot on as it gets.

[HarlemHeat37]

Yeah, these all or nothing teams are easily shutdown in the post season. But Dodgers are better tonight at making contact.

I think they have a legit shot in this series if they take game 2, the numbers favor the underdog the longer the series goes on..I'd take Ryu over Price pretty easily, despite their recent performances..

[midnightpulp]

Keep trusting the print out sheets from the analytics office you stupid fuck. You got guy who is complete command of 98mph heat tonight and you go with the rag arm leftie, which didn't even get you the match up you wanted. What a dumb fuck.

[HarlemHeat37]

I don’t understand what wasn’t to like about Ortiz, however Schilling is probably one of the top 10 least likeable people in the history of baseball.

I actually never disliked Ortiz as a person, I just hated the double standard from the media and fans towards his PED usage in contrast to their attitude towards the other high-profile users..

[Will Hunting]

I actually never disliked Ortiz as a person, I just hated the double standard from the media and fans towards his PED usage in contrast to their attitude towards the other high-profile users..
I liked Ortiz ever since he agreed to do a TV interview from his house about Manny Ramirez possibly being traded and he was blasting the 50 Cent sing “Just a lil bit” in the background with a crazy ass pool party going on :lol

[midnightpulp]

Well this was as spot on as it gets.

Wood's been shaky all playoffs. Baez has been unhittable, but let's go with Wood cuz leftie vs leftie, which didn't even work :lol

Cora pinch hitting Nunez, who often comes in late in the game for defense anyway, is something Roberts should've seen coming.

[Mugen]

Wood shouldn't even have made the roster. Freese misplaying Mookie's foul out in the 1st and Joc's error on the pop fly killed their chances. Both were semi-tough plays but you give the Red Sox that many chances at it and they straight murder you like tonight.

Not too confident about G2 but I liked the approach of a lot of the guys at the plate, hopefully it carries over tbh.

[midnightpulp]

Wood shouldn't even have made the roster. Freese misplaying Mookie's foul out in the 1st and Joc's error on the pop fly killed their chances. Both were semi-tough plays but you give the Red Sox that many chances at it and they straight murder you like tonight.

Not too confident about G2 but I liked the approach of a lot of the guys at the plate, hopefully it carries over tbh.

I knew the moment Wood came in it was going to hell. There were many positives. Good overall approach at the plate, manufacturing what I call "dirty runs," but other than Wood's gaff, Boston was basically ahead on account of that Freese blunder and those double plays they beat out (which proves what I always say in how speed kills in the playoffs). Dodgers were that close until the 7th. Hopefully Price has a meltdown game, but knowing how star crossed the Dodgers seem to be, he'll probably replicate his Houston performance. Make him work. No big swings. Put traffic on the bases and Price will implode.

[FrostKing]

Cora really wanted to defeat Kershaw in Game 1. Burned the bullpen with Price coming up on the mound

I like LAD in Game 2

[Reck]

Keep trusting the print out sheets from the analytics office you stupid fuck. You got guy who is complete command of 98mph heat tonight and you go with the rag arm leftie, which didn't even get you the match up you wanted. What a dumb fuck.

:lol

Analytics is killing this game. I'm glad Boston has not gone all in on that bullshit yet. But it's just a matter of time before one and all teams are doing it. Along with managers only letting starting pitchers go 4 innings.

Honestly, in a few more years, perfect games or even no hitter games are going to be extinct because a pitcher is pull before or after 4 innings.

[Reck]

Cora really wanted to defeat Kershaw in Game 1. Burned the bullpen with Price coming up on the mound

I like LAD in Game 2

Meh, both teams used up their bench and bullpen.

It's 50-50 with Price and Ryu.

[Will Hunting]

The playoff losing streak he had was clearly bothering price, he didn’t even try to pretend it wasn’t after he got his first win against Houston. That should theoretically have a positive impact on him tonight but I could easily see him being too relaxed and fucking up.

[Fabbs]

Was there even a question that Kershaw and Sale would both choke big time tonight :lol
3-3 four innings complete.
I thought at the time Roberts should have called 4 good entering the 5th pulled Kershaw at the very first sign of chokage given his history. Which he showed in walking* leadoff Betts. What happens after that, I dunno but he matched Sale FWIW.

Did ump burn him? I was watching but distracted?

[midnightpulp]

3-3 four innings complete.
I thought at the time Roberts should have called 4 good entering the 5th pulled Kershaw at the very first sign of chokage given his history. Which he showed in walking* leadoff Betts. What happens after that, I dunno but he matched Sale FWIW.

Did ump burn him? I was watching but distracted?

Kershaw actually had a fine pitch sequence against Betts. Betts fought off some hard sliders and then laid off a nasty 3-2 curve that 99 percent of hitters chase. Benintendi then laced a single in the next AB.

[Reck]

Roberts making no changes to his lineup tonight. :lol not playing Bellinger.

[midnightpulp]

Roberts making no changes to his lineup tonight. :lol not playing Bellinger.

Still going with Kike :lmao. I think Bellinger matches up fine with Price despite the lefty/lefty. I'm also tired of seeing Brian Dozier out there.

[Reck]

Red Sox are just hacking at everything like noobs. Possibly in position to screw over Price’s good start.

[Reck]

That piece of shit Kinsler can’t do right even when he does.

[Reck]

Sox are playing for homers tonight. I’ll just watch the highlight. Boring game

[midnightpulp]

Bit of a pitching duel. Who wouldve thought.

[midnightpulp]

Sox are playing for homers tonight. I’ll just watch the highlight. Boring game

Ryus low velocity seems to entice big swings.

[midnightpulp]

Meltdown inning for price? Unlikely with the shitty Dodgers bottom of the order, puig aside.

[Fabbs]

Meltdown inning for price? Unlikely with the shitty Dodgers bottom of the order, puig aside.
Seems tired.

The walk to load the bases seemed slackerish.

[midnightpulp]

We really should've nailed Price's ass to the cross in that bases loaded inning. What Roberts gets for continuing to trot out that bum Kike. Also don't have a hitting catcher worth a shit on the team.

[midnightpulp]

Dodgers love beating themselves.

[AlexJones]

David Price's regular season career: 1922.1 IP, 8.68 K/9, 2.32 BB/9, 28.4% Hard hit rate, 3.58 xFIP
David Price's postseason career: 85.2 IP, 8.51 K/9, 2.31 BB/9, 30.04% Hard hit rate, 3.78 xFIP

It's. Almost. As. If. Players. Are. The. Same. Regular. Versus. Post. Season. The. Only. Difference. Is. Higher. Level. Of. Competition. And. A. Much. Lesser. Sample. Size. To. Work. With.

[Will Hunting]

Wonder if Roberts puts that really shitty Wood pitcher back in now :lol

[Will Hunting]

:lmao why would you pull Urias? He’s been unhittable and threw less than 10 pitches, he could have easily gone another inning

[midnightpulp]

:lmao why would you pull Urias? He’s been unhittable and threw less than 10 pitches, he could have easily gone another inning

Either more managerial stupidity or legit concern for Urias's health (he came back from shoulder surgery that had him out 16 months). He projects to be a future starter so the Dodgers might be handling him with kid gloves.

[Fabbs]

I took a couple innings off to gym it.
Mid did Roberts stay with Rhu too long?

Madson walks 1st batter to let a run in wtf?

[midnightpulp]

I took a couple innings off to gym it.
Mid did Roberts stay with Rhu too long?

Madson walks 1st batter to let a run in wtf?

No. Ryu was cruising. He was a strike away from a clean 5th inning until Christian Vasquez of all people hit a single. Then a single to Betts. Then he walked Benintendi. The Sox rally happened so quickly, Madson was late getting to the pen. I think Roberts should've went with Baez. Madson didn't look good last night and is shitty working with inherited runners.

[midnightpulp]

:lmao Baez mows down their heart of the order, including Devers who Roberts brought in Wood to potentially face. Can't make this shit up.

[midnightpulp]

Boston bullpen is now right and Price has figured it out, as we saw against the Astros in the closeout. Team has no weaknesses. Looking like a historically great team.

[FrostKing]

Boston bullpen is now right and Price has figured it out, as we saw against the Astros in the closeout. Team has no weaknesses. Looking like a historically great team.
3rd or 4th best Red Sox team of the past 14 years

Brutal.

[midnightpulp]

3rd or 4th best Red Sox team of the past 14 years

Brutal.

The 2018 Sox won the most games in franchise history and have a higher run differential than any of the past Sox title teams. And their 2 out/2 strike devastation is something to behold. Not luck, either. They made a concerted effort to work on that during the off-season.

[FrostKing]

The 2018 Sox won the most games in franchise history and have a higher run differential than any of the past Sox title teams. And their 2 out/2 strike devastation is something to behold. Not luck, either. They made a concerted effort to work on that during the off-season.
Those are certainly impressive statistics and their trashing of defending champ Houston stands out. A very young team with old fashioned approach in a Money ball era. However I don't see any Pedro, Schilling, Ortiz, Manny or even Pedrioa types out there. Very well rounded team but starting pitching especially stands out as lacking compared to previous staffs

Mookie Betts 2018 form - okay noted. But even guys such as Damon, Youkilis, Varitek, Lester, Beckett


IMO
2004
2007
2018
2013

[midnightpulp]

Those are certainly impressive statistics and their trashing of defending champ Houston stands out. A very young team with old fashioned approach in a Money ball era. However I don't see any Pedro, Schilling, Ortiz, Manny or even Pedrioa types out there. Very well rounded team but starting pitching especially stands out as lacking compared to previous staffs

Mookie Betts 2018 form - okay noted. But even guys such as Damon, Youkilis, Varitek, Lester, Beckett


IMO
2004
2007
2018
2013

The 00s Red Sox definitely had more HoF names, but remember that the 2018 Red Sox are still young. If Betts doesn't get hurt, he'll go down as the greatest player in modern Red Sox history (don't like comparing today's players to 40s, 50s, etc players). 10.9 WAR this season. The 00s Red Sox had no players as impactful. You forgot about JD Martinez, as well. His WAR this year was as high as Ortiz's WAR career high, but Ortiz obviously gets the edge since he's one of the GOAT post-season hitters. Bogaerts is another underrated talent. .883 OPS, 3.8 WAR, as good as Pedroia's '07 season. Benintendi is basically Johnny Damon reincarnated. Not really a notable catcher on this team, though. Varitek was definitely the heart of those 00s Sox teams.

Starting pitching edge definitely goes to the 00s Sox teams, but bullpen goes to the 2018 (which is a given considering how teams are built today).

What puts the 2018 Sox over the edge for me is how ice cold clutch they are when it comes to situational hitting in addition to the level of dominance they've showed throughout the year and in the playoffs. The 00s Sox had their infamous 0-3 comeback and a 1-3 comeback in '07. The 2018 Red Sox have only lost 2 playoff games so far, and should sweep or beat the Dodgers 4-1 at the very least.

But perhaps the 2018 Red Sox aren't really "special," and the relative ease they're having is more an indictment of the three true outcomes philosophies the Yankees and Dodgers (and many teams in the league) are built around. Astros are really the only other team in the league to play "speed and contact" baseball, and even though Boston beat them 4-1, that could've easily been a 7 game series if Houston got a couple of breaks. In any event, the Sox and Astros being the two best teams this year is good for baseball. Maybe teams will start hating strikeouts again.

[Reck]

The Dodgers simply dont score enough runs to even be competitive. At least so far.

This Boston team is unreal. And now they seem to have their bullpen situation at least bandaged for now. But like I said, Boston is not going to win as many games on the road this time. The thing about streaks is they end and they end sudden and quickly.

They'll get 1 of 3 and finish business at home.

[Reck]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFe9WQlQSzk

This is you right now midnightpulp. :lol

[midnightpulp]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFe9WQlQSzk

This is you right now midnightpulp. :lol

I'm not against the analytical approach, I just think the Dodgers are behind the times when it comes to what's on the cutting edge of baseball analytics (I have no idea what that is right now). When two of the most analytical driven teams that most hardcore fans consider to be at the forefront (Boston and the Astros) are making efforts to reduce strikeouts and be tough outs through contact, other organizations should probably pay attention. The Dodgers are still going with the three true outcome approach that prioritizes power hitting and OBP above else, relying on heavy strikeout power hitters like Muncy, Grandal, Bellinger as their offensive core.

Astros were top 4 in Ks in 2016. During that off-season, they committed to reducing Ks. Next season, they struck out the least. Won it all. Yet, the majority of the metrics community still think "strikeouts are just another out." I think that idea is antiquated.

[Fabbs]

79 (or so) Dodgers down 0-2 to the Skunkies and came back to win.

Then the Skunks did the same thing to the Dodgers a year or two later. (I may have the order reversed).

Just sayin. It's possible.

[midnightpulp]

Walker Buehler is the next Justin Verlander.

[Reck]

Cora wants to lose this game. Gave up on Porcello very quick.

[Spurtacular]

:lmao Machado

[lefty20]

Kid pitched an unreal game. Hope Kersh was taking notes.

[Spurtacular]

:lmao Dodgers

[Spurtacular]

Kid pitched an unreal game. Hope Kersh was taking notes.

Notes won't bring back his fastball.

[resistanze]

:lol

[Reck]

Dodgers are just a low scoring team. Bad luck drawing the Red Sox.

I will still say they'll pull this game out..barely. The Red Sox offense has been...anemic. Gotta take this one now.

[Fabbs]

smh Jansens baseball IQ.

Or did he just miss with the pitch(s)? (Including going 2-0 with 2 outs nobody on :rolleyes )

All I've seen of him in detail is last years WS vs Houston and this years playoffs.
Used to getting away with that kind of IQ in regular season vs teams like the Padres? :lol

[Fabbs]

More Dodger IQ. :lol

Machados Macho used against him.

Ok well it's still 1-1 DodgerFan.

[Kim Jong-il]

Kershaw and Jansen are like Peyton/Vanderjagt in the clutch.

[LGBTQIAPK & G-D]

Dodgers are just a low scoring team. Bad luck drawing the Red Sox.

I will still say they'll pull this game out..barely. The Red Sox offense has been...anemic. Gotta take this one now.

I hear you. It's important to take one now.

[Fabbs]

I wanted to post this before Price had thrown even one pitch. He just gave up the leadoff single to Bellinger.
But if you guys can believe me I am like Price/Relief/1-1/bottom 9?


NO freaking way!

Update: Way to move the runner over low IQ Roberts/Puig.

[baseline bum]

Are you fucking kidding me? :pctoss

[Fabbs]

:spin:lol
Warning baseball strategy lovers, esp purists.
This is like watching a very physically talented group of retards.

Bellinger just picked off between 1b and 2b.

[Reck]

:spin:lol
Warning baseball strategy lovers, esp purists.
This is like watching a very physically talented group of retards.

Bellinger just picked off between 1b and 2b.

I simply call that desperation. They need this game so they're doing retarded shit.

[midnightpulp]

Ian Kinsler….

[Reck]

Ian Kinsler….

Is that an LOL Kinsler thank you?

[Robz4000]

Only way this can end is with the Red Sox unleashing an offensive barrage and tearing the heart out of Dodger nation.

[Robz4000]

Nunez taking a beating but getting the job done.

[midnightpulp]

Game. Congrats on the WS, Reck. This Dodgers team needs a total revamp in their plate approaches and situational hitting. They rely on their beloved 2005 era analytics. Friedman is overrated.

[Fabbs]

Dodgers team meeting discussing strategy.
https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/lockportjournal.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/b/8f/b8f03e21-352e-5ad1-9c7a-0abc5cf77766/53d23d6aadb0d.image.jpg
Could one of you photoshoppers put a Dodger uni on Corky?

[HarlemHeat37]

Kike Hernandez's playoff numbers are horrifying:lol

[Fabbs]

Only way this can end is with the Red Sox unleashing an offensive barrage and tearing the heart out of Dodger nation.
:lol

[Spurtacular]

Game. Congrats on the WS, Reck. This Dodgers team needs a total revamp in their plate approaches and situational hitting. They rely on their beloved 2005 era analytics. Friedman is overrated.

:lol That tranny is on the Red Sox bandwagon, huh?

[midnightpulp]

Kike Hernandez's playoff numbers are horrifying:lol

I've been in heated debates with baseball fans who take everything analytics as gospel and think when players struggle during the post-season, they're merely victims of "sample size." That's the case sometimes, but with players like Kike, Grandal, Stanton, Kershaw, they just aren't clutch due to the very real scientific fact of a thing called anxiety.

[Millennial_Messiah]

Stranding loaded bases keeps the door ajar.

[Millennial_Messiah]

I don't think LA has some Cardinals 2011 type voodoo left. Series over.

[Spurtacular]

Stranding loaded bases keeps the door ajar.

Not finishing the lead-off batter on 0-2 now.

[Reck]

Game. Congrats on the WS, Reck. This Dodgers team needs a total revamp in their plate approaches and situational hitting. They rely on their beloved 2005 era analytics. Friedman is overrated.

You mean to say Dodger actually lost this game? This was their best game yet.

I switch to Netflix and some Daredevil because I'm not a fan of low scoring affairs and had pretty much given this one to the Dodgers.

I had wish they would at least drop one before going up 3 games. I get nervous with this team.

[Millennial_Messiah]

Dodgers getting favorable calls like crazy...

[Spurtacular]

:lmao Machado (again)

[LGBTQIAPK & G-D]

You mean to say Dodger actually lost this game? This was their best game yet.

I switch to Netflix and some Daredevil because I'm not a fan of low scoring affairs and had pretty much given this one to the Dodgers.

I had wish they would at least drop one before going up 3 games. I get nervous with this team.

High scoring affairs are better. I get you.

[Robz4000]

Nunez gonna die before the game ends.

[Spurtacular]

Nunez wanting to make the SC Top Ten / be Jeter and allows the runner to get into scoring position. What a noob.

[Robz4000]

:lmao Kinsler gonna Kinsler

[Millennial_Messiah]

WOW!!!!!!!!

[midnightpulp]

:lmao Ian Kinsler again

[Millennial_Messiah]

Nunez wanting to make the SC Top Ten / be Jeter and allows the runner to get into scoring position. What a noob.

You always get the 2nd out there. No matter what.

[Spurtacular]

Nunez wanting to make the SC Top Ten / be Jeter and allows the runner to get into scoring position. What a noob.

That would've been a flip to second. Fucking Nunez.

[Millennial_Messiah]

Could never get this much excitement in p:lol:lolrball

[HarlemHeat37]

High scoring affairs are better. I get you.
lol

[Millennial_Messiah]

why the flip did Puig stop at first, though?

[lefty20]

Can't make this shit up.

[baseline bum]

How are there so many empty seats behind home plate? It's fucking 11PM in LA.

[Reck]

Derp should go give Kinsler AIDS.

[midnightpulp]

How are there so many empty seats behind home plate? It's fucking 11PM in LA.

Most casual sports city there is.

[Spurtacular]

Most casual sports city there is.

Debatable. The hardcore fans are mostly the poor ones who can't afford the tickets.

[baseline bum]

Most casual sports city there is.

11PM on a Friday night and it looked like 1/3 of the non outfield seats were empty. Who the fuck leaves a World Series game in the 14th inning on a weekend?

[Millennial_Messiah]

Most casual sports city there is.
Not even close...


Atlanta? Dallas? Miami? Now we're talking.


C'mon.

[Millennial_Messiah]

11PM on a Friday night and it looked like 1/3 of the non outfield seats were empty. Who the fuck leaves a World Series game in the 14th inning on a weekend?

Gotta get up early in the morning for work. 11pm is pretty late for most people.

[lefty20]

Debatable. The hardcore fans are mostly the poor ones who can't afford the tickets.

Saw on reddit that parking was $100 or more. Fake news?

[Millennial_Messiah]

David Freese is one of the World Series GOATs, could get a homer here

[Millennial_Messiah]

Might need to take out Eovaldi. He's losing it.

[lefty20]

Just noticed that GoT theme music for Tormund's AB... fucking awesome, tbh.

[LGBTQIAPK & G-D]

Saw on reddit that parking was $100 or more. Fake news?

Wouldn't be surprised. Isn't regular season parking like $20 there?

[baseline bum]

Gotta get up early in the morning for work. 11pm is pretty late for most people.

You think those people in the good seats at a World Series game have to go in for the Saturday morning shift at Burger King?

[Millennial_Messiah]

Wow, Nuñez is the MVP if the Sox win this.

[midnightpulp]

Asian pitchers. Just not clutch.

[Millennial_Messiah]

They really gotta take out Maeda here, don't they?

[lefty20]

Wouldn't be surprised. Isn't regular season parking like $20 there?

Not sure about LA, but it's always around 20-30 for Wrigley in regular season.

[HarlemHeat37]

Wouldn't be surprised. Isn't regular season parking like $20 there?

That's pretty standard at all sporting events, isn't it?

[Robz4000]

:wow the balls on Maeda. That could've been really bad.