2012 World Series-Game One

Posted in Uncategorized by tedspe on October 24, 2012

First off, I suppose I need to apologize to Nipper. Because this will be long. When Big Flavor asked to take my place yesterday, 2 things came to mind. First, hey, it’s Big Flavor’s blog, I’m just an apostle. Who am I to argue? Second, for Big Flavor to even ask such a thing, it meant he had something special. And lo, it twas to be. Flavor’s post yesterday was poetic, magical, inspiring and in good English. So once again, I’m here to put a stop to that.

I asked Flav to allow me to post today for two distinct reasons. A) It’s the first day of the World Series and B) Mathematically, I may not have another chance to make a post while the Giants are still playing, still in the game for 2012. So this will be epically verbose, silly, odd and, in places, *blatantly* plagarized.

This is an oldie but goodie. In the Peanuts comic strip on Dec. 22, 1962, Charlie Brown and Linus were sitting on the sidewalk, chins in their hands sulking. For the first three panels, they just sit there silently when finally in the fourth panel Charlie Brown blurted out “Why couldn’t McCovey have hit the ball just three feet higher?” Then again on January 28, 1963 in the same setting Charlie Brown shouted out “Why couldn’t McCovey have hit the ball even two feet higher?”

Of course, the Giants have since put the issue to rest by sharing their 2010 World Series trophy with Willie Mac. And now, a mere two years later, they’re on their way seeking another. But they’re facing a team that swept the Mighty Yankees in four. A team with the best all out starting pitcher who can go on 3 days rest and still paint the corners with 98-99 fastballs. A team with the first Triple Crown winner since 1967, tops in almost all offensive categories including nose hairs. They’re playing against a manager who is a 3 time Manager of the Year and 2 time pennant winner both from both leagues and who won it all in 1997. A team with the guy who wrote “Purple Rain”. Wait…strike that–wrong Prince.

So, do the Giants have a chance?

Well, yeah. Of course they do. I mean the Tigers have a shaky bullpen and are error prone. But as fortunate as the Giants were in the playoffs, you can’t *count* on other’s mistakes. Nope, if the Giants don’t bring it, it *will* get scary. But there’s another little strategy they could use. It’s a strategy they’ve been using throughout these playoffs but this if they try it… with a bizarro world approach…Well, Hunter Pence. As Bruce Jenkins mentioned, he’s not even from this planet. His speeches have roused the Giants when their backs were against the wall. His words inspired, transposed and cleared heads. He was…The Voice.

And if I may be so bold, I have a suggestion for old Van Gogh Eyes. In this series, go undercover. Find a Tigers uniform and sneak into their dugout (wearing a Groucho mask of course. They’re not too bright). And recite in a deep, resonant, well modulated voice an ancient poem found in the basement of a Baltimore church. Its faux message of hope and salvation that cannot be more sinisterly implied. It is something certain to deflate even Prince Fielder’s exceptional girth and ego. A simple ode entitled Deteriorata. I may be paraphrasing from the original text but the message is clear no matter the indulgences. Ahem…

“GENTLEMEN! My fellow Tigers. My Tiger brethren, if you will. Hear me and hear me well. Embrace these words as they me be the last you shall hear until it is too late. Go placidly amid the noise and waste. And remember what comfort there may be in owning a piece thereof. Avoid quiet and passive persons unless you are in need of sleep. Rotate your tires. Speak glowingly of those greater than yourself and heed well their advice even though they are assholes.

Know what to kiss…..and when!

Consider that two wrongs never make a right but that THREE………do. Wherever possible, put people on hold. Be comforted that in the face of all aridity and disillusionment and despite the changing fortunes of time there is always a big future in computer maintenance. Remember the Pueblo. Strive at all times to bend, fold, spindle and mutilate. Know yourself. If you need help, call the FBI. Exercise caution in your daily affairs, especially with those persons closest to you. That creep on your left, for instance. Be assured that a walk through the ocean of most souls would scarcely get your feet wet. Fall not in love therefore; it will stick to your face. Gracefully surrender the things of youth: The birds, clean air, tuna, Taiwan. And let not the sands of time get in your lunch. Hire people with hooks. For a good time call 555-4311; Ask for “TedSpe”(wink wink) Take heart amid the deepening gloom that your dog is finally getting enough cheese. And reflect that whatever misfortune may be your lot, it could only be worse in St. Louis. Therefore, make peace with your god whatever you conceive him to be—hairy thunderer, or cosmic muffin. With all its hopes, dreams, promises and urban renewal the world continues to deteriorate. GIVE UP! You are a fluke Of the universe. You have no right to be here. And whether you can hear it or not The universe is laughing behind your back.”

I’m tellin’ ya’ll. If Pence can pull this off? That oughta do it. Them Detroitians are a superstitious bunch. They’ll be staring at their feet. Wondering how they ever–EVER– even deserved to be here in San Francisco. So, let loose the hounds, release the pigeons, unmask the muskrats and feed the feral cats at City College!!! WORLD SERIES, MY BABIES!!! GO GIANTS!!!!! 2012 WORLD CHAMPIONS!!!!

(I’m Barack Obama and I approve this message)

313 comments

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Bozo said, on October 24, 2012 at 8:17 am

Ted, that cracked me up. Van Gogh? When I see Pence I’ve always thought about that song parody “She’s got Marty Feldman Eyes”.
Brian said, on October 24, 2012 at 8:26 am

Of course you knew this article would be written and by the biggest Giant-hater if national sports writers. http://sports.yahoo.com/news/melky-cabrera-s-exile-from-san-francisco-reflects-poorly-on-giants.html
- Bozo said, on October 24, 2012 at 9:03 am
  
  There is so much bullshit in that article it’s a bit difficult answer to it. I will say this, one rarely mentioned (and never in this article) reason that Mota was reinstated was the threat of a lawsuit from the Players Union. As I understand it, since his penalty ended during the regular season, if the Giants hadn’t put Mota on their roster it would have been considered punishing him twice. They could have left him off the playoff roster so if someone wants to nitpick on that, I guess they’d have a point.
- snarkk said, on October 24, 2012 at 10:09 am
  
  I don’t put much stock in the musings and slants of national writers for the sake of getting page views. Whatever. The fact remains that they put him on the 40 man when he came off the suspension. I won’t be surprised if they talk contract with him over the winter, regardless of the outcome of the WS. It probably depends mostly on the feelings inside the locker room and the team leaders in there whether they would entertain him coming back if he begs forgiveness. It’s not like they have the next Gary Maddox and Gary Matthews down in AAA ready to bust into the lineup…
- Flavor said, on October 24, 2012 at 12:10 pm
  
  I tweeted my discontent with this fuck early this morning. Fuck him.
Alleykat it's said, on October 24, 2012 at 8:26 am

Marty Feldman eyes with Eddie Haskell’s face a scary combo!
chipower9 said, on October 24, 2012 at 8:55 am

I am SO LAUGHING MY ASS OFF! Ted…you topped yourself again my man! That is fucking hilarious!

And Kat – you fucking nailed it! (Marty Feldman eyes with Ediie Haskell’s face a scary combo!).

FOUR MORE WINS!
chipower9 said, on October 24, 2012 at 8:58 am

I don’t recall who was sharing WS ticket prices yesterday (or the day before), but they have dropped. I found 2 lower box (section 132) for 385 each. Just wish it was in the cards to be there today.

Hoping those who make it today have a kick-ass time doing the Flapalooza 2.5!

GO GIANTS!
twinfan1 said, on October 24, 2012 at 9:05 am

Verlander is not scheduled to go 3 days rest, Leyland has said he’ll go in 1 and 5. It’s the same reason Bochy had to choose between Bumgarner and Lincecum ( rather than Vogelsong) for Game 2- smart managers don’t plan on short rest for their starters. And Leyland is a smart manager- he’s never started Verlander on short rest.
Most scribes pick Detroit based mostly on the Verlander factor- but he’s hardly untouchable- he gave up 4 or more in 9 regular season starts, 5 or more in 6 of those. And how can I now go against the Prince of Darkness? I can’t. and I can’t go against the rediscovered home field advantage, the forces that turned Pences DP into 3 runs, and the heart of a team that stared down elimination time and again? Giants in a heart pounding 7.
- chipower9 said, on October 24, 2012 at 9:25 am
  
  I like it Michael! Heart pounding 7 would be cool, but I think B-Weezy’s prediction of the Giants winning it in Game 6…on Haloween would be sweet!
- TedSpe said, on October 24, 2012 at 9:47 am
  
  I didn’t say he’d go with 3 days rest, I said he could. It was hyperbole
  - twinfan1 said, on October 24, 2012 at 10:07 am
    
    I didn’t say you said he would. I just said he won’t. My comments weren’t directed at you personally.Verlander has been *the* topic of this serires and there has been plenty of speculation that he could or would go in 1-4-7.
eddacker said, on October 24, 2012 at 9:51 am

Right, had my game food, see post on previous thread, fear the beard, as my rally beard has been going since game 5 LCS, getting ready for the game and we score we win
I like the idea of the Giants winning an elimination game 6, only it is the deeroid team being eliminated.
Go, Giants
- chipower9 said, on October 24, 2012 at 9:55 am
  
  Edd – I’ve had my beard going since the boys punched their ticket to the post-season. I did give it a light trim before Game 5 (and hesitated for a looong time before doing so, wondering if I and the Giants would feel the wrath of the Baseball Gods).
  - twinfan1 said, on October 24, 2012 at 10:45 am
    
    My beard fills out in about 12 different colors so I’ve opted for my usual, shaving with a dull blade 3 times weekly.
  - chipower9 said, on October 24, 2012 at 10:49 am
    
    ONLY twelve colors? How the hell did you manage that?
  - twinfan1 said, on October 24, 2012 at 11:03 am
    
    You’re saying I’m not alone? Do you let the magenta grow out or dye it?
  - unca_chuck said, on October 24, 2012 at 11:28 am
    
    Mine grew in red and grey (I have black hair) all my life so I never bothered.
eddacker said, on October 24, 2012 at 10:08 am

my lad aren and some of his mates have theirs going as well.
- chipower9 said, on October 24, 2012 at 10:49 am
  
  Lads and Mates…ah…love the British lingo…
  - chipower9 said, on October 24, 2012 at 10:50 am
    
    Beats the hell outta “home-boys!”
Macdog said, on October 24, 2012 at 10:51 am

First “Under Pants,” then “Van Gogh Eyes,” and now “Marty Feldman Eyes.” LQTM (is that right?). Van Gogh Eyes: Now all we need is for Pawlie to get a signed copy of “Baseball’s Starry Night” to Pence and we’ll be on our way.

And now it comes out that Pence named the now-famous three-hit broken bat “Fryer.” Was there ever a player better suited to play for the San Francisco Giants than this oddball?
chipower9 said, on October 24, 2012 at 10:57 am

If you have not seen this from the Merc News…very nice re-cap (month-by-month) of the Giants season:

http://www.mercurynews.com/giants/ci_21843994/timeline-tracking-san-francisco-giants-miraculous-world-series
snarkk said, on October 24, 2012 at 11:13 am

The three-hit broken bat of Pence will no doubt be one of the big memories of the Game 7, and enter into Giants lore for the ages. But. With this new super slo-mo camera coming into more use, I venture to guess that it will show that lots of broken bat hits have similar multiple taps, we just never could see them before. Hopefully, given the guy and the circumstance, that won’t take the sheen off the Pence legend…
- chipower9 said, on October 24, 2012 at 11:31 am
  
  Well, given the magnitude of that game, and Pence’s struggles to that point, nothing will ever diminish the sheen of that hit for me (and I am suspect I speak for all Giants fans)…
- ferrethead said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:07 pm
  
  I predict that however many more that are shown, Under Pants’ hit will always be mentioned.
unca_chuck said, on October 24, 2012 at 11:19 am

They showed one from someone on Colorado. Not sure if it was last year or this, but it was a double-hit, and the ball took off after the 2nd hit for a double down the line.
unca_chuck said, on October 24, 2012 at 11:30 am

BTW, these last 2 threads (Ferret Ted [per usual]) and were awesome.

The bar has been raised real high . . .

Glad I’m not next.
- ewisco said, on October 24, 2012 at 3:45 pm
  
  thanks for that! I usually lay awake sweating after one of ted’s. and now FH on top of that. sigh.
Irish Kevin said, on October 24, 2012 at 11:31 am

Well looks like everyone is on board for the Giants to win it all!! I don’t remember who said it on Monday, but are we all on board with the Giants MO? they go 1-3 and then finishe the Tigers off in Games 5,6, and 7. Which is just fine with me. Think of a game 6 or 7 in SF. you would not be able to drive, walk, run or do anything around ATT park!! it would be out right barely controlled mayhem!
twinfan1 said, on October 24, 2012 at 11:40 am

“they go 1-3 and then finish the Tigers off in Games 5,6, and 7.”
I said heart pounding, not heart stopping, Kevin. I’d like them to go a little easier on me. Just a tad.
- Irish Kevin said, on October 24, 2012 at 12:30 pm
  
  They have not gone easy on us fans yet Mike. What makes you think they are going to start now?? ha ha ha
chipower9 said, on October 24, 2012 at 12:06 pm

I just went back a re-read “Van Gogh Eyes'” speech to the El Tigres…Laughed as hard this time as the first time. That shit is PRICELESS!
Alleykat it's said, on October 24, 2012 at 12:08 pm

You know Pence get’s a 2 stroke penalty in golf for hitting the ball twice.
But hell that’s golf,his knocked in 3 runs!!! Bravo “Eddie Bug Eyes Feldman Haskell!!!!
unca_chuck said, on October 24, 2012 at 12:17 pm

Yeah, the pisser is Vogie and Cain don’t get to pitch until Detroit. The hope is they win one of these games at home. Unless the offense continues to just pound the fuck out of the ball. 1-3 may not be in order, but I can easliy see this being 2-2, or 3-1 Giants if they rake at home.
- Irish Kevin said, on October 24, 2012 at 12:36 pm
  
  That two letter word “IF” is soooo big!!
Alleykat it's said, on October 24, 2012 at 12:37 pm

Hey all you east coast moron so called expert writers and TV anaylists.
Do you think the Giants give a shit about Verlander,after they smoked Halladay,Lee and then destroyed Texas starters in the W/S….Fuck all of you easteners.The West coast Rocks the Orange&Black!!!!!!
- chipower9 said, on October 24, 2012 at 1:58 pm
  
  I like the way you think, Kat! Bunch of dumb fucks!
dirtnrocksnomo said, on October 24, 2012 at 12:39 pm

Giddy Fan Boy today anticipating the game today. I expect the unexpected from Zito today but against this Detroit club it’s going to come down to hitting and scoring runs with SF’s superior pen locking it down. Pence and Belt got it going in game 7 and I think they carry it over.

We Score We Win.

Go Giants!
- Macdog said, on October 24, 2012 at 12:42 pm
  
  Great day to have a birthday, eh?
wswin said, on October 24, 2012 at 12:48 pm

The Giants will win tonight for the 14th consecutive time when Barry Zito has started, and making his only start of the post season at home, will walk off the mound to chants of his name…

Giants in 6 on Halloween night like Wilson said. 5/1 exact games!
twinfan1 said, on October 24, 2012 at 12:58 pm

Here were the BA, OBP, OPS from the NLCS, The numbers pretty much tell the story
except that Crawford had 5 RBI, and some key ones. The only player who hit well in the NLDS and the championship series was Sandoval. Who’s hot and who’s not doesn’t seem to carry over from series to series so I wouldn’t make predictions for the WS based on these numbers. My general thoughts on what’s transpired ( other than we know we have 25 gamers) would be that I’m happy to see how the Brandon guys haven’t been awed by the postseason and that two men looking for some redemption achieved it in spades no matter what happens now ( Zito and Sandoval). And, oh- congrats on your first World Series, Marco…

Posey .154 .267 .421
Belt .304 .360 .925
Scutaro .500 .533 1.140
Sandoval .310 .355 .941
Crawford .217 .308 .569
Blanco .182 .357 .675
Pagan .242 .265 .659
Pence .179 .207 .528
Irish Kevin said, on October 24, 2012 at 1:02 pm

Isn’t it Voggys first WS also
- Alleykat said, on October 24, 2012 at 1:19 pm
  
  That would be correct Kevin….
- twinfan1 said, on October 24, 2012 at 1:33 pm
  
  I missed Pagan, too. No intentional slight, We seem to have heard about it with Marco more. Congratulations to all, especially the vets who haven’t been there.
sfsarge said, on October 24, 2012 at 1:27 pm

Sure the Tigers are well rested, but I have them coming out flat like the Giants did the first couple of games against Cincy. Too much time off will dull their edge. With all the battling the Gmen had to do to get here, we’re sharp. ” Men sharpen men as iron sharpens iron”, some smart guy once said.
Flavor said, on October 24, 2012 at 1:30 pm

Waiting on train to meet up with Kokonuts and dirt and the rest of Giants Nation. Will tweet out pics accordingly
- Flavor said, on October 24, 2012 at 1:33 pm
  
  Oh and Ted, I opted for the regular caltrain route as opposed to the bullet so I could section off enough time to read your entire thread. 🙂
  - blade3colorado said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:12 pm
    
    OK, settled in for the pregame, game, etc. Send pics via Twitter when you get them “Joker.” Grin.
Flavor said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:09 pm

Quick assessment of this series. I agree with Zumie, there’s no way the tigers are ready for this from the inter-team bs they were doing. Remember, this team was playing around .500 ball most of the year. They started playing better and won, I think, 90 (but maybe that was the cards and they won 88 I can’t recall).
Verlander is the best pitcher in baseball, by far, but any pitcher can be beaten by any team on a given day–and he did go 7 str8 starts in mid season only winning 1 game. I do think all the pressure is on the tigers tonight. If they lose with their ace, this gets much easier later.
And I think the tigers will have trouble in the OF at the corners tonight. Both corner OF’s are poor defensively (ESP at ATT, projected).
I’m going to stay with the positive today and say we win this game but will far from freak out if we lose.
ferrethead said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:13 pm

Ted – your special brand of genius never fails to delight! Too funny… When I see Under Pants with his scraggly beard, I think moonshine altered mountain man – Go Crazy Eyes!!!!
- chipower9 said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:25 pm
  
  Moonshine altered mountain man – now that is another apt description.
snarkk said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:14 pm

On paper, tonite’s game is a mismatch.
Zito, no matter his revelatory last performance in St. Louis, vs. the all-world Verlander.
On paper, that is. And, we know you don’t play the games on paper.
This team matchup seems similar to what used to be the national take on the Rose Bowl.
The Big 10 team was always ranked highly, and favored over the Pac 8/10/12 team, because the Pac team was “soft” and squishy and passed a lot. Result: Pac team destroyed Big 10 plodder and bruiser.
I’m looking for a similar result in this series…
eddacker said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:22 pm

One thing could be the ump tonight, if he is not calling strikes for Barry because they are on the black or too curvy then barry may have to come in to get the calls and that could be ah, no so good.
- snarkk said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:24 pm
  
  That’s always the case, Edd. In St. Louis, the key to Zito there was he spotted the Fball and changeup on the corners and low, and he was busting the RH batters inside, which he hasn’t done much. He needs to do that again…
- chipower9 said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:29 pm
  
  I don’t know, Edd. If memory serves me correctly from Game 5, Zito was coming in pretty frequently. Lots of fastballs (sure, a misnomer for him) on the hands, etc. But, agree to some degree, if the zone is tight (not getting calls on the black), it will make it that much more difficult. Go Zen Master!
- blade3colorado said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:41 pm
  
  You make a good point Ed . . . On Mike and Mike this morning, they were discussing the fact, that Barry has drawn the WORST home plate umpire (insofar as small strike zone) in the MLB. Apparently, he has screwed Barry consistently in the past (Barry has more walks with this guy, than any other ump in the MLB). Hopefully, Zito is able to block this from his mind and just pitch his game.
  - sfsarge said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:49 pm
    
    hey blade, sorry I missed your comment yesterday. Thanks BTW
  - snarkk said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:50 pm
    
    Sure they’re aware of that, Blade. I really wish MLB had an answer for this ridiculous variability among umps in calling balls/strikes. It’s stoopid that Krukow has to describe, before every game, the night’s zone to be expected from the particular ump standing there. It’s gotten worse over the years, not better, which is what you’d think with all the video technology going on, and supposed rating/ranking of these guys by MLB. I should have no interest in who the ump is behind the plate, but because they all rock their own little strike zones, we have to pay attention to it, and more importantly, the players do. Totally stinks…
  - blade3colorado said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:57 pm
    
    De nada Sarge . . . I really enjoyed your post!
    
    Snarkk, yeah, they have to be aware of it. I was driving to the gym this morning when they were discussing this clown. I was serene when I left my home and by the time I got to the gym, I was PISSED off. Apparently, this guy is consistent, but for a “junk” pitcher like Barry, who likes to paint the corners, it might be difficult for him to get called strikes. Despite this ump’s history, I am hoping for the best. We shall see . . .
- snarkk said, on October 24, 2012 at 3:04 pm
  
  Joe West is in the umpiring crew for this WSeries. Not on the plate tonite, that is Gerry Davis.
  West is a tool.
  At least Phil Cuzzi is not in the group…
eddacker said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:40 pm

Ferrethead:
I posted the pic from tagOrama under your comment
- ferrethead said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:44 pm
  
  Saw it – thank you so much!
zumiee said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:46 pm

There’s some possible mental edges over Detroit tonight. One, the Tigers don’t REALLY know if they can win the World Series, whereas the Giants KNOW they can win this thing, with recent World Series memories from just a couple of years ago. Yeah, a lot of players are different, but lots of key players are the same. The Tigers were there in ’06 with all the same build-up, and early clinch of the ALCS, and all that, and COMPLETELY laid an egg in the World Series. About as wretched a performance as could be imaginable. I guess they didn’t get swept somehow, but they were awful in that Series, and lost to a not-very-great Cardinal team that had won…..83 games in the regular season? Are you freakin’ kidding me?
Also, maybe not a big deal, but Verlander got roughed up in the All-Star game, with Panda clearing the bases with a double. I could be wrong, but I just don’t think the Giants players fear Verlander as much as the Giants fans do. Now, Verlander might go out and have a great game, but maybe he won’t. Maybe he gives up a couple of runs, and Zito + bullpen keeps it close. Anything can happen if the Tigers have to go to their bullpen. Especially if “Gas Can” Vervalde is brought in.
As others have said, the pressure is actually on the Tigers this series. They’re “supposed” to win. The Giants will play hard and the chips will fall where they do.
- snarkk said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:52 pm
  
  I don’t fear Verlander. Respect, sure. But, no reason to fear.
  Fireballing pitchers get beaten all the time. He might mop the floor tonite. He might not. Seems to me the junk throwers are the guys the Giants normally can’t hit…
Alleykat said, on October 24, 2012 at 2:55 pm

Main reason Bochy is going with Bum.in game 2 is Detroit was only 26-25 against LHP and batted .253 against them compared to 62-49 against RHP and batted .273.
Pump out the lefties early and go for the 2 gm sweep at home
- snarkk said, on October 24, 2012 at 3:00 pm
  
  Yep, and a junk lefty (Zito) in #1 vs. hard slider/FB lefty (Bum) in #2. Not a bad strategy, plus Tim is in reserve if either falters early. Question is if they can execute, especially with Bum’s dead arm / “mechanical” issues…
blade3colorado said, on October 24, 2012 at 3:03 pm

Need to emphasize something Zumiee said, i.e., getting to their bullpen is key. I think that is quite possible with Verlander and Scherzer, because both have been inconsistent at times – Verlander this year; and, Scherzer last year and the start of this season (after the all star break, he woke up and was lights out for the most part). Anywho, Zumiee’s excellent point about “making hay” when we get to their bullpen is important for the Giants. Unfortunately, we have to force Leyland’s hand in calling on the bullpen and that means doing well against their starters.
snarkk said, on October 24, 2012 at 3:10 pm

Here’s an opinion piece by Kurkjian, a national writer, that’s pretty balanced, and reasoned. He gives the Gyros big time props, but goes with Tigers in 7, which is a reasonable prediction, and doesn’t get into Melky stuff like Passan did just to get people hacked off.
http://espn.go.com/mlb/playoffs/2012/story/_/id/8539807/mlb-five-key-world-series-questions-detroit-tigers-san-francisco-giants
snarkk said, on October 24, 2012 at 3:13 pm

On Verlander, just have everybody bunt. Every AB.
Somebody’s bound to get on via legging it out, errant throw, whatever. By the third frame, Verlander will be tired from coming off the mound constantly, or maybe he trips and sprains an ankle. He’s done for the Series, and we’re good to go… 😉
Salty said, on October 24, 2012 at 3:27 pm

Cliff Lee may not have the Verlander, but he came into the 2010 WS 7-0 lifetime in the postseason and on quite a roll having shut out the Yankees for 8 innings on 2 hits and striking out 13. For the 2010 postseason, he had pitched 24 innings allowing just 2 runs and striking out 34. Against the G’s, it was of course quite a different story.
- twinfan1 said, on October 24, 2012 at 3:44 pm
  
  Halladay got the CY, won 21, coming off a playoff no-hitter.. down he went.
  - Salty said, on October 24, 2012 at 3:52 pm
    
    Yep!
Bozo said, on October 24, 2012 at 3:31 pm

” Want to watch the World Series?
This could be a big moment for you.
You want to watch a baseball game?
You want to watch baseball?
Just raise that hand up.
Just raise the hand up.”

I’m going cuckoo. Let’s fire this thing up!
twinfan1 said, on October 24, 2012 at 3:34 pm

Bochy had pretty much ruled out MadBum for another start but that was before Tim laid his own egg. Face it, Bochy had 3 choices for tomorrow night- Vogelsong on short rest, Timmy, or Madison. Since Lincecum has shown value out the pen in *this* postseason, Bochy is just going with the least objectionable option. There was no good one. But, hey, that often is good enough. I think he draws Fister, he may not have to be good to win..
- ferrethead said, on October 24, 2012 at 3:49 pm
  
  Heh-heh-heh, his name is ‘Fister’!
ferrethead said, on October 24, 2012 at 3:53 pm

Just a quick note about my post from Game 7 – the couple from Pleasanton have added comments here on the Flap. That makes me so happy!!!!
snarkk said, on October 24, 2012 at 4:01 pm

Before we enter the WSeries vibe and the NLCS fades a bit, I just wanted to say I’m glad the Giants played the Cards. There’s something to be said for two historic franchises playing each other for the pennant. It would have been interesting playing the Nats, and a new experience for their fans, but it means more, somehow, for me, for my team to wrest the pennant from the hands of the team that is the defending WS champ, a perennial contender, and the franchise that holds more WS titles than any other except the Yanks. The Giants definitely earned that pennant. BTW, the Giants are now the franchise that has appeared in the WSeries more times (19) than all teams not named the Yanks…
unca_chuck said, on October 24, 2012 at 4:16 pm

Yeah, Snarkk, that’s how La Russa beat Deetroit back in ’06. He bunted all over the place and forced their pitchers to field their position. They couldn’t field shit and were throwing balls all over the yard that series.

Beating the Birdies is ALWAYS a good outcome. Loved it in 02. Loved it more this time around.
- snarkk said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:02 pm
  
  Hey, Chuck, the Giants put some pressure on the Cards defense, and they accordingly messed up a lot during the NLCS. Look at the IF corner defense of Detroit — Cabrera and Fielder aren’t exactly the most mobile dudes. With really good opposing pitching, IMO you have to put pressure on the defense whenever you can, make something happen, force them to make good plays, or an error. I hope Bochy takes advantage of Giants speed when he can…
eddacker said, on October 24, 2012 at 4:57 pm

someone wake up bozo
he has a fuck you due
we score we win
blade3colorado said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:01 pm

Anyone hear from the SF Flappers at Flapalooza 3.0?
Billy said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:04 pm

Letting Velez slip away to the dodgers is going to come back to bite the gyros tonight – mark my words.
- eddacker said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:09 pm
  
  don’t harsh my mellow
Bozo said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:19 pm

Hey Flav and Pawlie, thanks for trying. Sorry if I cut into your drinking time.
- blade3colorado said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:23 pm
  
  I asked them why they were “locked” out of the knothole? I’m thinking that there is a new Phone Park policy when the Gmen are in the WS.
twinfan1 said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:20 pm

So, after all the talk about it, I see there were no roster changes.
blade3colorado said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:25 pm

Wow. That was close. On the initial play, I said WTF. Replay shows he was clearly out.
James said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:25 pm

That is just a wicked curveball.
blade3colorado said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:26 pm

Panda!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Macdog said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:26 pm

PABLOOOOOOOOOO!
James said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:26 pm

He shoulda thrown that curve — hell yeah!!!!
blade3colorado said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:27 pm

Bring it MOFOs! We love fastballs.
Alleykat said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:28 pm

OH FUCK YEAH!!!
Panda can turn anyone’s FB around!!!
Eat Shit Verlander,we are on our game tonight!!!
snarkk said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:28 pm

See?
Verlander isn’t the bogeyman.
The faster they throw it, the further it goes. Great job, Panda.
Let’s light this guy up, he’s human, he can be had…
Flavor said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:29 pm

We score we win
eddacker said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:30 pm

wow, that baseball paid for someone’s bleacher seat tonight, may there be many more, in Giants do we pray
eddacker said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:32 pm

I had to turn off fox and go with mlb.com and knbr
we score we win
blade3colorado said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:33 pm

LMFAO . . . Way to go Barry!
eddacker said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:39 pm

dee fence on the deeroids
go Giants
Barry with 30 pitches 20 for strikes thru 2
Macdog said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:57 pm

Oh man, great catch, but that was scary.
Alleykat said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:57 pm

Bingo Blanco flashing the leather! Great ketch!
eddacker said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:58 pm

kuip described that as “a head first slide” and it was a faceplant catch, fer sure!
blade3colorado said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:58 pm

Pawlie got into the game . . . I don’t know how, but he just called me and said he was in the bleachers and yes, he did get a good look at the Sandoval HR. Frickin’ loud there (I could barely hear and understand him).
- Alleykat said, on October 24, 2012 at 6:06 pm
  
  Way to go Pawlie!!! Way to go Paula way to go.Oh shit that was officer and a gentlemen!
  Glad you got end Pawlie,that Starry book has clout for ya!!
eddacker said, on October 24, 2012 at 5:59 pm

the flap – covering the action @ AT&T Park
twinfan1 said, on October 24, 2012 at 6:00 pm

I guess it’s not totally sunk in yet, I’m wanting to check the other games.
Alleykat said, on October 24, 2012 at 6:01 pm

Is that’s Whitey’s Mom Vera they keep showing?
- ferrethead said, on October 24, 2012 at 6:34 pm
  
  Kat – she was the star of the ‘dance cam’ on Monday. She was rockin’ the towel, and they must have shown her 4 times, each time the crowd got louder. I even took a picture of her on the jumbotron, because she was such a hit.
eddacker said, on October 24, 2012 at 6:03 pm

I wonder if I go to a Taco Bell they will honour the free taco with every steal?
Alleykat said, on October 24, 2012 at 6:10 pm

That’s another great omen for the Giants,Pagan bouncer off the bag at 3rd for a double..Shades of when the Ranger batter hit it off the top of the wall but it stayed in the park!!
blade3colorado said, on October 24, 2012 at 6:12 pm

HELL YEAH! WAY TO GO SCUTARO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
WilcoJoe said, on October 24, 2012 at 6:12 pm

Unreal.
Macdog said, on October 24, 2012 at 6:12 pm

MARCOOOOOOOOOO!
eddacker said, on October 24, 2012 at 6:12 pm

woop woop doing the dance
YEAH! MY TEAM
James said, on October 24, 2012 at 6:14 pm

That is fucking awesome beyond belief. Tortured him for nearly 20 pitches between Pagan and Scutaro.
blade3colorado said, on October 24, 2012 at 6:14 pm

Leave the MOFO in or take him out . . . IT DON’T MATTER.
Alleykat said, on October 24, 2012 at 6:14 pm

Is their any more clutch hitter then Scoots? Fucking automatic,He’s like Roy Hobbs right now,anything a pitcher throws he hits!