N.J./BKN NETS ~ Signs and Seats

From the desk of:  THE HOOPS OF FLATBUSH

NJ/BROOKLYN NETS:  New Billboard Pops Up At Gold Street And Tillary Street.

BARCLAYS CENTER UPPER DECK SEATING STARTING TO FILL IN.

 

If you're travelling east bound on Tillary Street,

you'll find The Nets' latest marking of their territory.

 

 

Construction of Barclays Center:

A quarter mile down the way on Flatbush Avenue, construction crews and cranes have been lifting and placing formed concrete bases for seating in the upper deck sections.

 

 

 

RELATED ARTICLES:

New Jersey Nets intend to provide fans in Brooklyn with cheaper alternative to New York Knicks. ~ NYDN; by Stefan Bondy

Deron Williams to Follow LeBron James to CAA? ~ CBSsports; by Ben Golliver

NJ,BKN NETS CEO Brett Yormark Talks Brooklyn. ~ Mike.BTB

 

Mike.BTB

L.I. DUCKS ~ Even Series Against Bridgeport.

From the desk of:  Waddling Around Breakfast

Long Island:  Even up important series with Bridgeport..

In what I think is a very important series against the Bridgeport Bluefish for the sake of keeping them at arms length, the Long Island Ducks rebounded Saturday night from their loss against Bridgeport Friday to even up this series at a game apiece.  With tonight's win, the first place Ducks regained a 2.5 game lead on Bridgeport.

After a 9-5 loss Friday, The Ducks kept the Bluefish on ice allowing them only one run in game two of this series.  Chalk this one up to the bullpen.   Ruddy Lugo came out of the game after only three innings pitched.  The bullpen was needed to finish the rest.  Mike Diapoules earned tonight's win.  Jeremy Hill earned his first save.


In six innings of work, the bullpen put up dynamite numbers;
6 ~ innings pitched.
2 ~ hits.
0 ~ runs.
2 ~ walks.
8  strikeouts.


Saturday, the bottom half of the line-up supplied the Ducks with the offense they needed.  Long Island's Dan Lyons; Matt Esquivel; Matt Padgett; and J.R. House all had an RBI each.

TODAY

(Ducks and Bluefish series tied 1-1)

GAME THREE

LONG ISLAND DUCKS

vs.

Bridgeport Bluefish

From

The Ballpark at Harbor Yard

Mike.BTB

NEWARK BEARS ~ Making Most of First Trip To Brockton

From the desk of:  GROWLINGS FROM BROOKLYN

NEWARK BEARS:  Brick City ROX Brockton...Again!

Jesse Estrada and Brockton's Robert Bono engaged in an old fashioned pitcher's duel.  Through five innings, the Brockton Rox only managed three hits off Jesse Estrada.  But against Brockton's Robert Bono, the Bears mustered none.


Robert Bono retired the first fifteen Bears to take a turn at-bat before the perfect game was ruined in the sixth inning as the Rox committed a two base error.  That led to Newark's first run of the evening when Paddy Matera not only broke up the no-hitter, but he singled home somebody (Watson?) to break up the scoreless deadlock.  I'll be honest, I lost track of the Bears in the field also.


What happened?


Tim Raines made a multitude of changes throughout the course of this game which drove the Brockton announcer up a wall.  I guess his score sheet was getting a little messy as a result.  On manager Tim Raines' many moves during the game, the Brockton announcer had this to say, ".....He's trying to prove some ludicrous point that I don't even know what it is."  "Very odd..(and).. More than anything, frustrating." 


Admittedly, there was confusion over Todd Gossage, Raines Jr, Jeff Toth, Brandon Watson, and Burt Reynolds, as to whether they were in the game or what position they were playing.  So yes, there was a small point to be made.


I'm not dropping names.  That's not what I want to do.  But I'm sorry, this man still needs to get over himself.  This is the third time I've had the privilege of listening to this announcer call a game; twice during this series, and initially when he wasn't even calling a game between Brockton and Newark.  But in the case I mentioned above, he had nary a good word to say while killing time between games of a double header between Brockton and Quebec.  And over all three occasions, he's done nothing but criticize the Bears in my limited samplings of his work.


In the home seventh, Brockton's Ryan Royster homered off Jesse Estrada to tie the score at one apiece.  Brockton's Robert Bono's day was finished after pitching seven innings.  Bono only gave up two hits and one unearned run.  He walked one and struck out six.  The Rox brought in Jake Hale to relieve Bono.


Newark's Jesse Estrada's day was also done after pitching seven full innings.

Jesse Estrada's Line:
7 ~ innings pitched.
6 ~ hits.
1 ~ runs/earned.
2 ~ walks.
5 ~ strikeouts.
1 ~ home run allowed.
no decision tonight.

TJ Hose came on in relief for Newark. 


Both teams traded zeroes in the eighth inning with their respective bullpens.  For the ninth inning, Brockton summoned Travis Hughes in to pitch.  Raines singled; Ward drew a walk.  Raines advanced to third base when Santiesteban bounced into a FC.  Then Ward advanced to second base on a passed ball.  Alvino was intentionally walked to load the bases.  But the threat went for not.  Brockton escaped without Newark scoring.


In the home ninth inning, Brockton faced TJ Hose in his second inning in relief.  With one out, The Rox' Ryan Royster launched a ball deep to left center...that was caught short of the wall for long out number two.  After surrendering a walk, TJ Hose got the next batter to pop up to send the game into extra innings.


With Brockton summoning their fourth pitcher, the Bears got the lead-off  batter on base in the tenth.  A Sac/FC advanced Paddy Matera to second.  With two outs now, the Rox intentionally walked the switch-hitting Raines Jr. to face Daryle Ward.  But Ward never had a chance to swing.  Raines got picked off first base to end the inning.  Their second consecutive chance with a runner in scoring position had past.


Coach Raines took out TJ Hose after two innings and inserted Chris Rollins for the bottom of the tenth.  He took care of Brockton's first two batters before Chris Valencia doubled.  The Bears elected to intentionally walk the next batter.  With two outs and runners on first and second, Chris Grossman was hit by a pitch on a 3-0 pitch to load the bases.  Shawn Williams came up for Brockton after a Tim Raines visit to the mound.  Williams grounded to Raines Jr. at second who stepped on the bag for the force play. 


Brockton manager Bill Buckner called upon his fifth pitcher for the eleventh.  Tim Raines stuck with Rollins to finish the Brockton half of the inning.  They traded another pair of zeroes and on to the twelfth frame we'd go.


Todd Gossage; the still struggling Todd Gossage; son of Rich "Goose" Gossage, with one out in the twelfth frame launched a home run off Brockton's Colin Lynch to put the Bears ahead.


(What?  What?  Did I hear my favorite announcer complimenting the Bears bullpen tonight?  Yes I did!  How about that.)


The top of Brockton's batting order was due up in the bottom of the twelfth inning.  They'd take their last licks against Newark's Mikey Mehlich.  Brockton's Mike Torres hit a one out triple.  With the infield in, Tim Raines Jr. fielded a grounder, held the runner at third and threw to first for the out.  The Bears elected to intentionally walk the next batter.  And up came Chris Grossman who made the final out of the game.


Tonight's Bears winning pitcher is Chris Rollins.  Mikey Mehlich is credited with his fourth save of the season.  The Bears bullpen was indeed stellar tonight.


Newark Bullpen Line:
5 ~ innings pitched.
2 ~ hits.
0 ~ runs.
2 ~ walks.
3 ~ strikeouts.


And so, the Bears ensured themselves they'd win this series against the Brockton Rox.  Tomorrow will be the third and final game of the series before the Bears move on to Worcester.

And to my new favorite Brockton Rox web caster, keep it up!  I never realized how much fun beating up on the rest of you rambunctious CanAm Leaguers can be until listening to you.  How ya like the Bears now?

Newark Bears lead series 2-1

GAME THREE vs. BROCKTON ROX 

TOMORROW

Sunday, June 12, 2011

From Brockton

Mike.BTB

NEWARK BEARS ~ Brick City ROX Brockton

From the desk of:  GROWLINGS FROM BROOKLYN

NEWARK BEARS: Team's First Trip To Brockton Starts Off With Win Over Rox.

Last week against Quebec, I caught a listen of the Brockton Rox web caster in between games of a double header, who had nary a good thing to say about the Bears.  During last night's web cast, it seemed he picked up where I left him off last.

So when 3,012 Brockton fans watched their home town team lose to the Bears by a score of 6-4 last night in the opening game of a three game series, I was pleased.  Payback is a real stitch in the baseballs sometimes.  The Bears might not have even realized their honor was at stake last night. 

But I did.  *wink!

In rehashing what happened to the Rox in his post-game wrap, my new favorite announcer was in a quandary as whether to credit the Bears for hitting three home runs, or rationalize that his starting pitcher was just missing pitches.  He reminded his audience countless times the Bears' Ward, Raines, and Watson, who all homered in this game, all had Major League experience.  ...And his point was?


But to his credit, he called them pesky.  Gee Wally!  Thanks.  However, he did say they'd be a problem for the Rox this season and would give them trouble for sure.  And that's the fairest thing I heard him say about the Bears in two opportunities I had to listen-in on his call.


So, Brockton's starting pitcher; Mike Smith; was just missing pitches.  Riiight.  The Newark Bears place four hitters within the top ten batters in the league.  Tim Raines Jr., who fell below .400 last night is second in the League with a .397 batting average.  Daryle Ward is fourth sporting a .372 average.  Billy Alvino is fifth with a .370 average and Danny Santiesteban is seventh with a .350 average.  Not enough for ya?  At number eleven in the League?  Newark's DH, Brandon Watson is batting .338 also.  So yea...I can see where Mike Smith was just missing pitches last night.


In addition to his fifth home run of the season, Tim Raines Jr. upped his League leading RBI total to twenty.


The Bears' starter; Alex Smith; walked four batters and as such, didn't have as neat a line as Mike Smith did.  But Alex Smith made sure the five runs his offense scored for him held up and in the process earned himself his second win of the season.

BROCKTON ROX

NEWARK BEARS

TONIGHT

(Bears lead series 1-0)

NEWARK BEARS

vs.

Brockton Rox

GAME TWO

From somewhere up in Massachusetts

Mike.BTB

N.Y. METS ~ Dillon Gee Rolls A Seven

From the desk of:  HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

NEW YORK METS:  Gee Forces Weigh Heavy On Pittsburgh. 


FINAL:
N.Y. METS...8
PIRATES......1


I keep telling you, there's a correlation between Dillon Gee's starts and Josh Thole's bat yielding hits.  Some of Josh Thole's best days at the plate (and behind it) have come while Dillon Gee has been on the mound.  It's an odd phenomena; but hey, if the shoe fits, run with it.  Tonight, Thole was 3 for 5 with an RBI.


All I ask is patience with Josh Thole.  He won't disappoint.  I'm not predicting Johnny Bench for him.  But I am talking about a fine backstop who will hit better than you think with occasional pop.  I believe he'll develop into an effective two-hitter in time.  The two spot or seven spot will suit him fine.  But I just really want this kid around beyond next year.  When his critics say bad, I say overwhelmed.  When Media says Mets need an upgrade at catcher, I say we need patience with him.


Mentioning Dillon Gee's name in the same sentence as the All-Star Game is something that no longer can be dismissed as improbable as well as being considered wishful thinking by many.  To the contrary, if the talk about this kid in the All-Star Game isn't getting started, then I'd have to assume ignorance; as in willful dismissal and due credit for what this kid has achieved so far.


Tonight, in defeating the Pittsburgh Pirates on the road, Dillon Gee improved his record to 7-0 since his call-up to replace Chris Young.



DILLON GEE'S LINE:
8 ~ innings.
104 pitches; 73 strikes.
8 ~ hits.
1 run/earned.
0 ~ walks!
5 ~ strikeouts.
3.05 era,  and shrinking.



Dillon Gee just isn't winning games.  His starts are incrementally getting better.  Each win has been an up-tick in effectiveness from the previous start.  Where once his walks per game were a little high, tonight he walked none.  His eight innings pitched are more than his previous starts.


If you want to say this came against the Pirates who's top batter was hitting .283, you may.  But then you're selling Dillon Gee short.  He did post handsome numbers against the Braves whom are considered a better team and won.  Then when he faced a less successful team. i.e.; Pittsburgh, his effectiveness surged accordingly.  That's the way I read his win against the Pirates.


Once again, Gee's stellar outing comes on the heels of Jon Niese's continuing string of quality starts.  Last night, Niese evened his record at 5-5, and if you've been keeping tabs, that should speak for itself.  The two pitchers; Niese and Gee, have once again combined to put the Mets in a position to reach the elusive .500 mark.  The Mets' last taste was fleeting.  We've gotten close to that .500 mark of credibility before because Niese, Gee, and Dickey (now that he's rejoined the ranks of consistency) have put us there.  We just keep having problems punching through with Pelfrey and Capuano.


Tomorrow, R.A. Dickey will take the mound and we'll see if we can get back to .500 again.



Jon Niese's Line ~ a/o Thursday:
7.2 ~ innings.
99 pitches;  63 strikes.
3 ~ hits.
1 ~ run/earned.
4 ~ walks.
8 ~ strikeouts.
3.15 era; and falling.





OFF THE MOUND:

Jason Bay for the most part has escaped my wrath so far.  I just remember the miserable first year Carlos Beltran experienced here and that's why I've slacked-up.  Oh, but he's getting so close.  So it's probably best he sit a few games like Terry Collins suggested.  Then moving forward, if we've exhausted all methods of trying to get the old Jason Bay out of him, then what can you do? 


What I am confident in though, is the Front Office will do something.  Jason Bay is another big item in the Omar Minaya purge file.  So in one form or another, he will be dealt with.  We've learned thus far this Front Office and manager (don't let him go under spoken) react quickly to situations, unlike the last regime who so many times suffered paralysis by analysis.


In the mean time, welcome back Lucas Duda, who was tearing up Buffalo.  It's good to see him again.  One hit; two RBI; and a run scored ain't a bad way to fill in for the benched Jason Bay.  And Duda is certainly more about the future direction of this team than Bay is.  So any extended playing time for him is OK with me.


Rounding out the offensive highlights; - With the exception of Dillon Gee, every Met starter in tonight's line-up got at least one hit.  Jose Reyes continued tearing the cowhide off the ball.  He was 3 for 5 tonight, with a home run and two runs scored.  Angel Pagan slugged a double and a triple; had one RBI; and scored twice.





Mike.BTB

N.Y. YANKEES ~ Big Papi, Mother Nature, and Sox Sweep Bombers

From the desk of:  BLAME CARLOS MAY

new york YANKEES:  Rain Only Delayed the Inevitable.

As far as Game Two, ...Look What Big Papi Did To You.... AGAIN.

There was no brush back.  There was no dusting off and hitting the dirt.  Papi picked up right where he left off Tuesday wasting no time depositing an A.J. Burnett pitch into the seats in right to make an early 1-0 lead, a 3-0 lead before the Yankees even came up to bat.  So much for backing him off the plate and moving his feet.  They moved his feet so much, he rounded the bases, and with all his ribs in tact.

...And the Stadium went silent.

But instead of David Ortiz being the center of attention again, the real story maker was A.J. Burnett, who's rapidly morphing into the Yankee version of Oliver Perez.  Two first inning home runs; a run in the second; and after three more runs given up in the fourth inning, Burnett was toast.  And at this point it must be acknowledged; the Yankees' pitching staff as a whole is in big trouble.  More on that maybe tomorrow.


(That was all meant for yesterday.  I fell asleep, too tired from softball last night and never published.  And so I resume today with some tweaks.)

Too bad the Yankees chose to wait three hours to get last night's game in.  Because the fact is, the Sox flat out rolled the Yankees like a drunk on 161st Street.  Not only C.C., but they rolled the whole team, all series long.


Last night was the big match-up between CC Sabathia and Josh Beckett.  Things were going fairly copacetically for C.C. the Yanks over the first six innings.  The Yanks jumped out to an early 2-0 lead in the home half of the first and made it last for the next five innings.


Along the way, Josh Beckett plunked another two Pinstriped milk bottles.  Then finally...Finally!... C.C. defended the Yankees' honor by drilling Big Papi with the pitch so many fans and Media talkies have been asking for.  After the game, when asked about getting hit, Big Papi told a group of reporters, "I hope you're f**king happy now."


But the damage inflicted by Papi and the S'awks had already been done.  The Red Sox sent a message received here in New York loud and clear by everyone. 


The Yankees relinquished their hold on first place and it has all the Yankee-leaning talkies in a full blown panic.  And why shouldn't they be?  Have you seen who's in the Yankees' bullpen lately?




The Joba Rules and Hughes Rules Got A New Spin:

In short work, which is how Cashman operates these days, he basically shook off any responsibility he might have had in the demise of Joba and Hughes.  Cashman said The Rules were always in place in their minor operations and that it was the Media who picked up the Who's Rules ball and ran with it because he implemented it on the Major League level.  And it's true; on both counts.  No one ever heard Cashman say these are "Joba Rules" per say.  But they were, no matter how much Cashman wants to deny it.  But my question was always why?  Why bring up the kid (Joba) after only 88 innings pitched in the minor leagues?  What equates to on-the-job training, is turning out to be a complete fail on many levels.

For all the babying they handled Joba and Phil Hughes with, the two still succumbed to injuries (as did Ian Kennedy when he came up as part of that much heralded trio).  Joba is done for the next year and a half if he has to get Tommy John surgery.  There is speculation now, Hughes will fill the bullpen role when he returns.  If that plays out, then the mismanagement continues in earnest.





Mike.BTB

L.I. DUCKS ~ Team Explodes for 25 Runs Versus Lancaster

From the desk of:  Waddling Through Brooklyn

Long Island Ducks:  Line-up sets fire to Barnstormers.

As it turns out, Kraig Binick suffered a fractured orbital bone during Wednesday night's game in Lancaster and required a few stitches.  He will be missing a few games after all.

Thursday was the rubber game between Long Island and the Barnstormers.  Lancaster took the first game of the series Tuesday night.  Long Island responded Wednesday with a 14-1 victory.

The Ducks jumped out to an early 2-0 first inning lead before the Barnstormers got a turn at-bat.  Kennard Jones led off the game with a walk and quickly stole second.  He then advanced to third on a wild pitch.  And why not....he scored on a passed ball for the first Ducks' run.  John Rodriguez drew a two out walk.  Then Lew Ford was hit by a pitch.  Finally, something a little more conventional, Matt Esquivel singled to drive in Rodriguez from second base.

Lancaster got one of those runs back in the bottom of the inning to make it a 2-1 game after one full inning.

But Lancaster was suffering battery problems last tonight.  As I mentioned, an earlier wild pitch, a HBP, and a second passed ball in the third inning were just small indications of Lancaster's bigger problems trying to contain Long Island Thursday.  The Ducks were up 9-0 in the third inning third and were still threatening with bases loaded....


Then the game just got plain 'ol out of hand.  The final score was a ridiculous 25-10.  The score was 15-1 after three. 


Sifting through this game is like going into that closet you've been meaning to clean-out for years but are afraid to open the door because of the avalanche of junk you know will surely bury you up to your knees in stuff.  So, besides the Ducks taking the rubber game of their three game series against Lancaster,  I'll limit myself to say this about last night's game.  The middle of long Island's order; the number four and five hitters; John Rodriguez and Lew Ford; we a two man wrecking crew.

John Rodriguez:
3 for 5 ~ 2 home runs; 8 RBI; 6 runs scored; 2 walks.

Lew Ford:
3 for 5 ~ 2 home runs; 7 RBI; 3 runs scored; walk

TONIGHT

LONG ISLAND DUCKS

vs.

Bridgeport Bluefish

At the Ballpark at Harbor Yard

The Ducks and Blue Crabs have spent the front portion of the season's first half divisional race either in first place or drafting the lead team from second.  Today however, circumstances are different.  The South Maryland Blue Crabs just had the contracts of their two best hitters purchased by the Mexican League.

Following suit for now, the Ducks start tonight's series against Bridgeport in first place with South Maryland a close second.  But I expect them to be falling out of the way soon.  I can't see them sustaining this winning percentage after losing two such important players in their early season success.

Enter Bridgeport;  they have come on like gang-busters after a very poor start to their season.  And in the Bridgeport Bluefish, I believe the Long Island Ducks have what will be their new competition for the top spot in the division.  The Bluefish flirted with second place recently.  And even though they are losers of their last three games, they only trail Long Island by 2.5 games.

This should be a very interesting series.

Mike.BTB

L.I. DUCKS ~ Navarrete Sets Another Record As Ducks Win

From the desk of:  WADDLING THROUGH BROOKLYN


LONG ISLAND DUCKS:  Ray Navarrete Continues to Re-Write Ducks' History Books.

Ducks Make The Season's First Quarter Turn In First Place.


After losing last night, the Ducks got back to winning ways defeating the Lancaster Barnstormers Wednesday evening and ensuring they'd wake up tomorrow morning in first place.

In an incredible game rich with personal achievements for several Long Island players, the Ducks reach the midway point of the season's first half races winning their 21st game of the season versus 13 losses.

Kraig Binick was taken out of this game early after suffering facial cuts and a black eye due to a collision sliding into second base on an attempted steal.  The stolen base incidentally was his 13th of the season which leads the Atlantic League.  In his only at-bat of the game, Kraig singled sharply off the second baseman to drive in a run.  He also came into tonight's game as the League's batting leader as he is still batting above the .400 mark (.413 at start of game).  His single extended two streaks he's been working on.  He now owns an eight game hitting streak and has now safely reached base in 26 consecutive games.  It's not believed he'll miss any time.


Starting pitcher Mike Loree continues to make the most of his second chance on the Ducks' staff.  Against Lancaster tonight, he didn't give up his first hit until the third inning.  He didn't allow his first run until the 6th inning.  Loree improved his record to 5-1 is now tied for the League lead in wins.  He also lowered his League leading ERA to 2.25 after giving up only one run in 6 innings of work.


But the star of Wednesday night's game was no doubt Ray Navarrete who is making 2011 a season of stamping his name all over the Ducks' record books.  Tonight, the six year Ducks veteran, scored his 427th run of his Long Island career breaking the team record held by Justin Davies.  Ray Navarrete accomplished his feat in 92 less games than Davies.


Ray is already holder of so many team records.  For his career, he is the all-time Ducks' leader in home runs; RBI; hits (accomplished this season); and now runs scored.  He also holds Ducks single season records in most RBI; hits; games played; doubles; and hits in one season.  For a single game, Navarrete owns the Ducks' record for most home runs in a game and most RBI in a game.


The final score in Lancaster Wednesday night was Ducks 14; Lancaster 1.  But as you can see, the Ducks accomplished so much more.







Mike.BTB

N.J./BKN NETS ~ Nets' CEO Brett Yormark Talks Brooklyn

From the desk of: 

THE HOOPS OF FLATBUSH

BROOKLYN NETS:  Nets' CEO Brett Yormark Spoke With Bill Daughtry This Evening On 1050espn Radio.


On the future name of the Team:
As of right now, the organization favors the BROOKLYN NETS.  Brett Yormark said, "We like Brooklyn".  He believes it will be an incredible brand and that is transcends this market.  He described the likely name, Brooklyn Nets "...strong and bold."  And likes the ring of it.

There was a consideration for NEW YORK NETS because of their Long Island roots in the ABA.  They are dedicated into tapping into their heritage.  He said an announcement regarding team colors, uniforms, and a name, will come by Fall at the latest.



On the Barclays Center Arena:
He praised Bruce Ratner's progress with the arena.  Ratner remains as majority owner of the Barclays Center.  Construction is ahead of schedule.  Brett Yormark expressed hope there would be initial events in June 2012 leading up the Nets Opening.  He said there is an event planned for Labor Day and has over 150 events planned for the initial year of operations.

He said a big celebration is on tap before the NBA season kicks off.  He believes, and is pitching Brooklyn as a supreme venue for older Brooklyn stars (such as Barbara Streisand..etc.) along with being the place for newer Brooklyn stars.

Brett said Boxing and concerts would be scheduled before an opening night in October or November of 2012.



On The Team:
He believes Billy King and Avery Johnson are a strong combo.  And he called Deron Williams the magnet and quarterback of the Nets future.  Deron has indeed been open to Brooklyn and has made his contributions in the team's promotions.  His likeness is being used in billboards all over town (see phone booth above).  However his future is still unknown.  Overall, Brett Yormark called Brooklyn the transformation of the team.

He pointed to improvements made on the court this past season, their ability to make a trade, and harbors high hopes for the up-coming draft.  He also offered the obligatory, "the best years are ahead."

The question was posed about playing out a season in somewhat of a lame-duck status next season as it being the last one in Newark before the move.  Yormark responded by saying the goal was to be competitive and relevant.  Brooklyn makes that possible on a much bigger level.  There are 2.5 million people in Brooklyn and there are many of them anticipating the move.  Aided by the Long Island Railroad and 9 NYC subway connections serving the area, the Nets can be a tri-state team he said.  There is still a commitment to the N.J. fans.  And Yormark told of his surprise as to the response by N.J. season ticket holder's and their eagerness to renew subscriptions in spite of the team moving.



On the Knicks:
Healthy competition is good.  Once the Nets are in Brooklyn, he's envisioning a rivalry with the Knicks and Nets providing New York City with the biggest moments in winter sports.

"WELCOME TO BROOKLYN"

Pay Phone: Garfield Place and 5th Avenue

BARCLAYS CENTER

Construction:

a/o June 2011

 

 

Mike.BTB

NEWARK BEARS ~ Drop Matinee To Rival Jackals

From the desk of:  GROWLINGS FROM BROOKLYN


NEWARK BEARS:  New Jersey Jackals Take Lead In Overall Essex County Cup Challenge.

The Bears' winning streak ended at six games today.  They lost this afternoon to their rival, the New Jersey Jackals in game two of this three game series.  The Bears and Jackals split the two games in Newark.  They will conclude the series tomorrow at Yogi Berra Stadium which also starts a seven game road trip for the Bears.

The Jackals shut out the Bears 4-0 and limited them to four hits.  They now take a three games to two lead over the Bears in the season long Essex County Cup Challenge Series.

Tim Raines Jr. picked up one of Newark's hits.  Catcher Eric McGee went 2 for 3 today.  And Daryle Ward had a double for the Bears to round out their offense.

Today's starter Aaron Kalb didn't have a particularly bad outing.  Rather, he had a quite good outing, but got tagged with today's loss.  The Jackals jumped out to a first inning, three run lead while the Bears couldn't get anything going versus Jackals' starter and former Bear, Chris Vasami.  He limited the Bears to three hits over five and two thirds innings pitched.  A very good Jackals' bullpen took care of the rest for New Jersey.


Aaron Kalb's Line:
6 ~ innings.
84 pitches; 52 strikes.
4 ~ hits.
3 ~ runs; 2 earned.
2 ~ walks.
6 ~ strikeouts.


After finishing out this series against New Jersey tomorrow, the Bears head to Brockton and Worcester.




Mike.BTB

N.Y. YANKEES ~ Big Papi Flips Out The Bombers

From the desk of:  BLAME CARLOS MAY


NEW YORK YANKEES:  Who's Your PAPI?

So what are they gonna do, throw at him?  After the way the Red Sox have manhandled the Yankees this season, maybe they should.


Pffft.  In the immortal words of Yankees' announcer Michael Kay, "C'mon....  Really?  ....Really!?" 


From the words "Play Ball" and Jacoby Elsbury's lead-off home run last night, the Red Sox had the Yankees right where they wanted them; on the field with only one game separating the two teams.


For years, Big Papi has pounded the Yankees.  And for years he's flipped his bat (if not as dramatically as last night) after bashing a home run against them, yet again.  And for years, fans and said announcer have been begging for Papi to either get backed off the plate, or get plunked in the ribs; (Ribs; His words.  Not mine).  And finally, for years, the Yankees have failed to follow through with any overt, aggressive-type approach towards Big Papi.


So, if you're looking for A.J. Burnett to carry over a grudge, forget it.  He ain't going after Papi or anyone.  Number one; it's too late.  That should have been thought about last night.  Number two; He has enough trouble keeping his own game in check, much less curbing another player's appetite for show-boating.  If he does wind up plunking Papi or anyone else, I'm sure it will be because he's struggling and will therefore happen by accident. 


And if Joe Girardi didn't like it, I'd suggest he get a pitcher on the mound who can get him out.  Period.  The play of the game was made by Kevin Youkilis in the first inning when with two outs, the Yanks had the bases loaded.  Nick Swisher smashed one to the Hot Corner where Youk went to his left and made a fine play to retire the Yankees.  Failure to capitalize in that moment, when a base hit could have tied the game, is what did-in the Yanks last night; Not Papi.  Papi was just a punctuation mark on a season long statement the Red Sox are making.


The Yankees entered the game with a one game lead.  Today they are tied for first place.  And if my Spidey-sense serves me correctly, by tomorrow morning, the Yankees will be in second place.


So Flip This.  Who's your Papi?!

TONIGHT

(Red Sox Lead Series 1-0)

GAME TWO

BOSTON RED SOX

vs.

new york Yankees

From

the House Across The Street From The Place Where

Sparky Used To Spit

161st Street and River Avenue

Bronx

Mike.BTB

N.Y. METS ~ Capuano & Reyes Brew Up A Win For The Road

From the desk of:  HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET


NEW YORK METS: Capuano Continues Mets' String Of Strong Starts.

Chris Capuano is going to give you six innings as sure as a teenager will deal with pimples.  There's good days and better days; but mostly bad days.  It's kinda the way Chris Capuano's season has gone so far.  But Tuesday's game definitely gets mixed in with the better days.  Other than one big blemish named Prince Fielder who whacked a 6th inning solo home run, Capuano kept the Mets' game complexion pretty clean against the Brewers as the Mets started a road trip tonight in Milwaukee.


The Mets and Brewmeisters traded pretzels for the first five innings.   Then down 1-0 after giving up that home run to the Brewers in the sixth, Jose Reyes put Chris Capuano on the winning side of this game when he ripped a two run triple in the top of the seventh inning giving the Mets a 2-1 lead.   Jason Izz and Francisco Rodriguez ensured the one run lead held up.


Chris Capuano's effort also piggy-backs what has been a string of quality starts by Mets' starting pitchers; save Pelfrey.  Sorry Dude.  There's no arguing the offense has been MIA.  But the starting staff has kept the Mets in just about every game for well over a month now.  It wasn't always so with this staff (reference April and a stinker here and there).  But lately, they've been masterful. 


The team isn't at .500 (yet).  But when you take into consideration the injuries to Wright and Ike, and the possession of Jason Bay, just how far away from .500 would we be without the starts we've been getting from Gee, Niese, Dickey, and a start like Capuano's tonight?  If you were looking in a rear view mirror, we'd be really small by now.  This season, and this staff, have shown just how far, or in the Mets' case, how high above water, quality pitching can take you; not great pitching; just quality pitching.



Chris Capuano's Line:
6 ~ innings.
106 pitches; 66 strikes (?)
6 ~ hits.
1 ~ run.
2 ~ walks
5 ~ strikeouts.
1 ~ home run allowed; Prince Fielder.




Jose Reyes Runs To Daylight, Then Into An Out:

Jose Reyes' game-winning triple is one thing.  But his failure to slide and score on the ensuing ground ball was another.  Had he slid home, he might have easily avoided the tag.  Instead he came in standing up and got tagged out a-la Jeremy Giambi.  It is one of those old inexcusable Reyes quirks we've been privileged NOT to see much of this year.  I hope Coach Collins gave him an earful about it.  That sort of stuff used to raise it's ugly head around here more often prior to this season.  And it used to make this team look stupid.  We might not be that good.  But under terry Collins, for the most part, we haven't looked stupid.  So here's to hoping we don't see much of that again.  The play will go under-spoken because we won.  But a 2-1 lead could have easily gone kablooey.  And we would have then called his decision not to slide, ruinous and just plain stupid.


Good pitching covers up a lot of mistakes.





Mike.BTB

N.Y. METS ~ DePodesta Finds Nimmo In The Amateur Pool

From the desk of:  HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET




NEW YORK METS:  Club Goes After High School Players Showing A Break From The Past.

The grades are years away from being issued regarding this year's draft, but I'll give Paul DePodesta an "E" for effort and an "S" for surprise.

The New York Mets jumped into this year's Amateur Talent Pool with both feet and didn't even hold their nose.  Talk about making a splash....  Or at the least, they made a radical departure from their past practices.  And so, the philosophical changes in METropolis have begun. 

With the 13th pick in this year's Draft, the Mets selected 18 year old, Brandon Nimmo; an outfielder from Cheyenne, Wyoming.  With their second pick (#44 overall) the Mets selected Michael Fulmer; a high school pitcher from Edmond, Oklahoma.

Paul DePodesta rode two principles in making his first selection; the Mets weren't going to play it safe, - and they were intent on getting a slugger with their first pick.  I'd say check, and check. 

I mean, I have no idea how Brandon Nimmo will pan out; no one does.  But I like the pick because it was savvy.  Any kid who plays on an American Legion Post team because his high school doesn't have a baseball team, and causes an MLB exec to fly-out to literally the middle of Nowhere, Wyoming, to see him play, is OK with me.  I wish Nimmo all the luck in the world.  And if he signs with us, I just may see him in Brooklyn this season.  But these guys are still said to be committed to college.  We'll have to wait and see whether they'll decide to commit to us, or opt for keg parties and studying the French Revolution to death.

It's hard to say anything really about either player.  But with regards to the Draft, the change in approach by DePodesta and the new Front Office is quite noticeable.




Mike.BTB

NEWARK BEARS ~ Beware! Bear Traps Abound

From the desk of:  GROWLING IN BROOKLYN

ESSEX COUNTY EXECUTIVE'S CUP CHALLENGE:

New Jersey Jackals

vs.

NEWARK BEARS

From Bears and Eagles Riverfront Stadium

BRICK CITY

Tuesday Night Final:

Jackals   4

BEARS  8

NEWARK BEARS:  No Respect In The Booth Is No Problem On The Field!


"Growling In Brooklyn" just found it's cause.


Grrr!


The New Jersey Jackals were winners of their last three coming into tonight's game against the Bears as the Essex County Challenge resumed in Newark tonight.  For the Bears' part, they just completed a five game sweep against the New York Federals over the weekend.


I listened to the Jackals' game feed and heard their announcer offering up a huge slice of homer-pie.  All he did was complain about how there was no one in the park; how the PA system was set too loudly for so few people; how, because of the way center field is situated in Riverfront Stadium to take advantage of the NYC skyline view, it means the sun sets directly behind home plate interfering with the center fielder's vision; and it seemed as if he went on and on and on....   So the fact the Bears were leading 4-2 after five innings pleased me very much.


And I think what happened is I felt this new rivalry juice me up tonight for the first time.  After a day at the park like I spent Monday in Newark, I didn't appreciate the Jackals' announcer going on ad-nausea with his criticisms of the Bears' situation. 


And so, it's on Guys!  New Jersey Jackals be warned; the new rival of the Newark Bears is my rival too.


As a matter of fact, I was put off earlier by the same kind of nonsense when I was listening to the first game of a double-header between the Quebec Capitales and the Brockton Rox.  In between games, the gentleman handling the microphone took a call.  Eventually, he and the caller got to talking about the Newark Bears.  Imagine that?  But it was the Brockton announcer who was guilty of most of the disparagement over the state of baseball in Newark.  The gentleman didn't believe the city/area was capable of supporting the team and generally had less than kind words to say regarding the Bears; especially when compared to his home town Brockton Rox.


This CanAm League sure is one tough circuit, huh?  It's rough being the new club in the League I guess.  Inhospitable receptions, blistering observations, and misguided perceptions seem to be ruling the 'net with anti-Bear bias today.  Good I say!  It'll just make the rest of the season that much more fun for me, especially when we play New Jersey and Brockton.


In the course of me putting together this post, New Jersey tied the Bears at four apiece in their top half of the sixth inning.  And long ago in this game, my favorite broadcaster of the day started his dissertation about how good the Jackal's bullpen was and bragging about how they were running a streak of 14.2 consecutive scoreless innings pitched.  That is, until is got snapped today.


Into the Jackals bullpen the Bears went, like a bull through a china shop.  Kyle LaMotta led off the home sixth with a walk.  He promptly got caught stealing 1-3-6 for the first out.  Tim Raines Jr. who was 5 for 5 today, doubled.  The next batter, Daryle Ward followed with another double scoring Raines.  Danny Santiesteban then singled to drive in Ward from second.  Burt Reynolds capped off the Bears scoring for the inning when he tripled to left, scoring Danny all the way from first.


The Bears added one more in the seventh for good measure when Tim Raines Jr. collected his fifth hit of the afternoon; another RBI double scoring Brandon Watson to make the score 8-4 Bears.


And that was the way this contest ended; with New Jersey losing.  Does a loss to the Bears make a sound if no one is around to hear it?


Hey Mr. Jackal announcer guy, can you hear me now?


Atta boy Bears!





Mike.BTB

Baseball Art ~ By Ron Nesbitt

These are the newest completed works by friend, RON NESBITT
Media:  Oil paint on glass.

PREVIOUS WORKS BY RON:

UNFINISHED:

Mike.BTB