The LOST season finale aired last night, and it was filled with lots of suspense, action, drama, deaths, a few answers, and of course plenty of questions.
Here are some miscellaneous thoughts and questions I came up with after watching the season four finale:
-It's amazing how many times this show has reinvented itself. The first few episodes were simply about a group of strangers struggling to survive on a deserted island.
-So who’s left on the Island that Jack and company need to go rescue? Sawyer, Juliet, Charlotte, Miles, Bernard & Rose (though they didn’t want to leave really), Claire, Jin, Daniel (raft), misc. Losties….not too many left really.
Look at who has died since the pilot episode: Shannon, Jin (?), Charlie, Michael, Boone, almost all the Tailies, and now Locke; plus various Others, Freighties, crazy French women, crazy Russians, Alex, Karl, etc.
-The Desmond-Penny reunion was probably among the top-five moments of the show. At least there was one happy ending.
-What happened to Daniel Faraday and the rest of the raft Losties?
-I’m guessing Charlotte is Ben’s old girlfriend, Annie.
-Why does Miles want to stay on the Island?
-Halfway through the finale I had determined that it was either Ben or Locke in the coffin. I remember that this time last year, probably half of LOST’s fans thought it was Michael in the coffin.
-I doubt we’ve seen the last of Jin. Even when LOST shows a character “dead,” that doesn’t mean they are in fact dead.
-I’m guessing we have seen the last of Desmond…for a while at least. I’m sure he’ll pop up again as a guest, but his main story has come to a conclusion.
-So Jack has to get everybody back to the Island. How difficult of a task will this prove to be, especially with Sun looking to partner up with Widmore?
-What happens to Lapidus?
Friday, May 30, 2008
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Coming Soon To A Ballpark Near You?
A few former Brewers are profiled in this article by ESPN.com's Jerry Crasnick, which looks at players who are out of the game but could still play.
If it were up to me, Cirillo would be Milwaukee's utility infielder, and Craig Counsell would be in the studio providing analysis. Cirillo's a career .296 hitter with over 1,500 hits, while Counsell is a career .256 hitter with less than 1,000 hits.
If it were up to me, Cirillo would be Milwaukee's utility infielder, and Craig Counsell would be in the studio providing analysis. Cirillo's a career .296 hitter with over 1,500 hits, while Counsell is a career .256 hitter with less than 1,000 hits.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
More Reactions to Indy 4
Here is an open letter to George Lucas, which offers the director some suggestions for the future.
And Brad V. over at Letters in Bottles shares his reactions to the movie.
And Brad V. over at Letters in Bottles shares his reactions to the movie.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Saturday Canoe Trip - Oconomowoc River
A deer jumped into the water ahead of us and swam across the river. You can see its head in the photo below, straight ahead (click to enlarge).
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
***Spoiler Alert – Do Not Read This Post If You Have Not Seen The Movie Yet And Are Planning On Seeing It***
I went and saw the latest installment of the Indiana Jones series Friday night, and even though I went in with low expectations, I still left the cinema disappointed. The fact that it took George Lucas (who has now ruined a second film series) and Steven Spielberg 20 years to find the “right script,” should have resulted in a better movie.
The first half of the movie is generally enjoyable, and there is plenty of action, Indy wit, nods to the previous films and characters, and some exciting scenes – the motorcycle/car chase scene has been talked about a lot and it is probably the best sequence in the whole movie. But the second half of the movie leads Indy fans into a new territory – one that not even the bravest fan should have to explore.
Here are a few things that really bothered me:
-The ridiculous aspects of the plot are easy to point out, but the movie’s biggest fault is how it treats its characters. If you think about Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Last Crusade, the things that set those movies apart is the character interaction – notably Indy and Marion in Raiders, and Indy and his father in Crusade. Skull is too preoccupied with the plot and doesn’t spend enough time with the characters, which leaves them hollow and underdeveloped.
-Harrison Ford delivers a fine performance, but he is given little to work with. Most of the other characters seem like they are action figures that have come to life.
-The movie is loaded with scenes that are just so over-the-top that they border campy – these include the scene where Mutt Williams is swinging through the tree tops with his new monkey friends and the three times Indy and crew fall down huge waterfalls.
-In fact almost everything with Mutt Williams was excruciating to watch – like the numerous times he combs his hair and his “dramatic” scenes with Professor Oxley.
-John Hurt (Professor Oxley) is a good character actor, but unfortunately he is given a very bad part in this movie. Oxley may go down as the most unnecessary character in the entire Indy series.
-Aliens? Really? The three previous Indy films were at least grounded in some degree of believability. Did Lucas and Spielberg really have to drag extraterrestrials into yet another movie?
I went and saw the latest installment of the Indiana Jones series Friday night, and even though I went in with low expectations, I still left the cinema disappointed. The fact that it took George Lucas (who has now ruined a second film series) and Steven Spielberg 20 years to find the “right script,” should have resulted in a better movie.
The first half of the movie is generally enjoyable, and there is plenty of action, Indy wit, nods to the previous films and characters, and some exciting scenes – the motorcycle/car chase scene has been talked about a lot and it is probably the best sequence in the whole movie. But the second half of the movie leads Indy fans into a new territory – one that not even the bravest fan should have to explore.
Here are a few things that really bothered me:
-The ridiculous aspects of the plot are easy to point out, but the movie’s biggest fault is how it treats its characters. If you think about Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Last Crusade, the things that set those movies apart is the character interaction – notably Indy and Marion in Raiders, and Indy and his father in Crusade. Skull is too preoccupied with the plot and doesn’t spend enough time with the characters, which leaves them hollow and underdeveloped.
-Harrison Ford delivers a fine performance, but he is given little to work with. Most of the other characters seem like they are action figures that have come to life.
-The movie is loaded with scenes that are just so over-the-top that they border campy – these include the scene where Mutt Williams is swinging through the tree tops with his new monkey friends and the three times Indy and crew fall down huge waterfalls.
-In fact almost everything with Mutt Williams was excruciating to watch – like the numerous times he combs his hair and his “dramatic” scenes with Professor Oxley.
-John Hurt (Professor Oxley) is a good character actor, but unfortunately he is given a very bad part in this movie. Oxley may go down as the most unnecessary character in the entire Indy series.
-Aliens? Really? The three previous Indy films were at least grounded in some degree of believability. Did Lucas and Spielberg really have to drag extraterrestrials into yet another movie?
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Branyan Up, Gwynn Down
As "SS" alluded to in the comments section, Russell "The Muscle" Branyan has been called up from AAA-Nashville. It looks like Branyan will start at third base against right-hand pitchers, and Bill Hall will start against lefties.
I realize that Branyan was putting up great numbers down in Nashville this season, but I don't see him duplicating those results with the Brewers. Look at his career numbers:
716 Games
.229 Avg
1868 AB
121 HR
300 RBI
755 Strikeouts
427 Hits
He strikes out in 40% of his at-bats! The best-case scenario is that Branyan comes up, has a great couple of weeks, and then the Brewers use him to trade for some pitching depth.
Meanwhile, Tony Gwynn Jr. was sent down to Nashville to make room on the roster. I really like Gwynn and I hate how he's been called up and down so many times. It is unfortunate that the Brewers have no room in the outfield for him. I wish that he could get a full-time starting position and see what he's capable of accomplishing in the majors.
I realize that Branyan was putting up great numbers down in Nashville this season, but I don't see him duplicating those results with the Brewers. Look at his career numbers:
716 Games
.229 Avg
1868 AB
121 HR
300 RBI
755 Strikeouts
427 Hits
He strikes out in 40% of his at-bats! The best-case scenario is that Branyan comes up, has a great couple of weeks, and then the Brewers use him to trade for some pitching depth.
Meanwhile, Tony Gwynn Jr. was sent down to Nashville to make room on the roster. I really like Gwynn and I hate how he's been called up and down so many times. It is unfortunate that the Brewers have no room in the outfield for him. I wish that he could get a full-time starting position and see what he's capable of accomplishing in the majors.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Spoke Too Soon
Remember last night when I said things could be worse for Brewer fans? Well, they just got worse.
Apparently Eric "Game Not Over" Gagne has an injured right shoulder. Is that $10 million all guaranteed?
Maybe this is actually a good thing. It will finally give Ned Yost an excuse to not use Gagne in games now.
Apparently Eric "Game Not Over" Gagne has an injured right shoulder. Is that $10 million all guaranteed?
Maybe this is actually a good thing. It will finally give Ned Yost an excuse to not use Gagne in games now.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
New Leprechaun Video
The Sanders Construction Leprechauns suffered a loss last Monday night, but fans can take solace in the new Leprechaun video featured below.
Things Could Be Worse
Milwaukee Brewers fans have had a tough season so far, but they should know that things could be a lot worse. They could be Padres fans. San Diego is 17-30, the worst record in MLB, they just lost their ace, and tonight another star pitcher was literally knocked out of a game when a ball hit him in the face.
The Brewers made it 2 in a row tonight, behind a strong start by Ben Sheets who went the distance in a 4-1 victory. Milwaukee is now 22-24
Meanwhile, Rickie Weeks has shown some improvement. Remember last Saturday when I mentioned that Ned Yost was sticking with Weeks in the leadoff spot? It's been paying off lately - here are Weeks' numbers going into last Saturday's games vs. his numbers now:
Before Sat. - .187 avg, .315 OBP, .651 OPS, 31 Runs, 29 Hits, 23 Walks, 7 SB, 30 Ks
After Tonight - .206 avg, .332 OBP, .686 OPS, 37 Runs, 36 Hits, 26 Walks, 8 SB, 34 Ks
The Brewers made it 2 in a row tonight, behind a strong start by Ben Sheets who went the distance in a 4-1 victory. Milwaukee is now 22-24
Meanwhile, Rickie Weeks has shown some improvement. Remember last Saturday when I mentioned that Ned Yost was sticking with Weeks in the leadoff spot? It's been paying off lately - here are Weeks' numbers going into last Saturday's games vs. his numbers now:
Before Sat. - .187 avg, .315 OBP, .651 OPS, 31 Runs, 29 Hits, 23 Walks, 7 SB, 30 Ks
After Tonight - .206 avg, .332 OBP, .686 OPS, 37 Runs, 36 Hits, 26 Walks, 8 SB, 34 Ks
The Future of Netflix
I first heard about Netflix's plan for a streaming box about two years ago on 60 Minutes.
This website has posted a review of Netflix's first streaming box, which has a one-time purchase of $100.
It's interesting to think how only a few months ago, Blu-Ray was declared the winner over HD-DVD in the "Format Wars." How long before DVDs are altogether rendered meaningless?
This website has posted a review of Netflix's first streaming box, which has a one-time purchase of $100.
It's interesting to think how only a few months ago, Blu-Ray was declared the winner over HD-DVD in the "Format Wars." How long before DVDs are altogether rendered meaningless?
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Changes in the Brewers' Rotation
The Brew Crew finally got a road win tonight, 7-2 against the Pirates at PNC Park.
Meanwhile, Ned Yost has decided to move Carlos Villanueva out of the starting rotation, and he will be replaced with Seth McClung.
Here are the two pitchers' numbers going into tonight's game:
Carlos Villanueva:
9 GS, 49 IP, 2-5 Record, 64 Hits, 35 ER, 12 HR, 16 Walks, 31 Ks, 6.43 ERA
Seth McClung:
10 G, 19 IP, 1-1 Record, 15 Hits, 8 ER, 2 HR, 13 Walks, 20 Ks, 3.79 ERA
Meanwhile, Ned Yost has decided to move Carlos Villanueva out of the starting rotation, and he will be replaced with Seth McClung.
Here are the two pitchers' numbers going into tonight's game:
Carlos Villanueva:
9 GS, 49 IP, 2-5 Record, 64 Hits, 35 ER, 12 HR, 16 Walks, 31 Ks, 6.43 ERA
Seth McClung:
10 G, 19 IP, 1-1 Record, 15 Hits, 8 ER, 2 HR, 13 Walks, 20 Ks, 3.79 ERA
Monday, May 19, 2008
Spielberg's Ten Best
Rottentomatoes.com counts down the 10 best films by Steven Spielberg in this new feature, based on their collection of reviews.
Think you can guess the top 3? I'll give you a hint - Schindler's List is No. 4.
Meanwhile, the new Indiana Jones movie opens this Thursday, and so far the reviews have been fairly good.
Roger Ebert probably sums it up best when he says "I can say that if you liked the other Indiana Jones movies, you will like this one, and that if you did not, there is no talking to you."
Think you can guess the top 3? I'll give you a hint - Schindler's List is No. 4.
Meanwhile, the new Indiana Jones movie opens this Thursday, and so far the reviews have been fairly good.
Roger Ebert probably sums it up best when he says "I can say that if you liked the other Indiana Jones movies, you will like this one, and that if you did not, there is no talking to you."
Ned Yost's Seat is Heating Up
Apparently a blogger published a report claiming that Ned Yost was to be fired, however JSOnline's Tom Haudricourt has not found any truth in that claim.
Meanwhile, Ryan Braun has "called out" his teammates. I read the comments that Braun made after the game and didn't find them to be that inflammatory. Besides, I would rather hear a player admit that things aren't going well and need to be fixed, then hear the same old tired statements like "the season is still young." This season is getting old pretty quickly for Brewers fans.
Meanwhile, Ryan Braun has "called out" his teammates. I read the comments that Braun made after the game and didn't find them to be that inflammatory. Besides, I would rather hear a player admit that things aren't going well and need to be fixed, then hear the same old tired statements like "the season is still young." This season is getting old pretty quickly for Brewers fans.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Rickie Weeks
The JSOnline Brewers Blog has a post on Ned Yost sticking with Rickie Weeks in the leadoff spot.
Here are Weeks' numbers so far this season, and how he ranks in the NL:
.187 Avg. (92nd)
.315 OBP (70th)
.651 OPS (84th)
31 Runs (10th)
29 Hits (94th)
23 Walks (17th)
7 SB (11th)
30 Strikeouts (33rd)
Here are Weeks' numbers so far this season, and how he ranks in the NL:
.187 Avg. (92nd)
.315 OBP (70th)
.651 OPS (84th)
31 Runs (10th)
29 Hits (94th)
23 Walks (17th)
7 SB (11th)
30 Strikeouts (33rd)
Battle For Most Pathetic
I know this is a story that is over a year old now, but I just found this video a couple of days ago. It is a local Milwaukee news station's report on an infamous incident which occurred in my hometown, Oconomowoc. After watching this clip, I'm not sure which is more pathetic: the dude in the story, or the reporter covering the story.
Enjoy:
Enjoy:
Friday, May 16, 2008
Cool Brewers Promotion
I like the latest promotion the Brewer front office came up with.
For every run that Milwaukee scores this weekend at Fenway, the Brewers will take off $1 on the price of the loge outfield tickets for the May 27th game against Atlanta.
For every run that Milwaukee scores this weekend at Fenway, the Brewers will take off $1 on the price of the loge outfield tickets for the May 27th game against Atlanta.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Braun a Brewer Thru 2015
I think it's a great deal, especially if you consider some of the contracts that have recently been negotiated elsewhere.
You can see video of the press conference here.
Meanwhile, what does this mean, if anything, about the future for Prince Fielder? Will the Brewers have enough cash to sign the slugger? Will he feel slighted that Braun got a long-term deal before him? What will his agent, Scott Boras, be whispering in his ear?
You can see video of the press conference here.
Meanwhile, what does this mean, if anything, about the future for Prince Fielder? Will the Brewers have enough cash to sign the slugger? Will he feel slighted that Braun got a long-term deal before him? What will his agent, Scott Boras, be whispering in his ear?
Finished!
The pile of antebellum America books and journal articles lay vanquished.
I finished spell-checking my last paper of the semester just after 1 am. The only thing standing between me and summer is some data entry work at the history office.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Bill O'Reilly Frustrated By Own Stupidity
If you have not seen this video yet, it is definitely worth a look. It's from a few years ago, when Mr. O'Reilly was working on that bastion of journalism, Inside Edition. He gets discouraged because the teleprompter doesn't tell him what to say.
WARNING: NSFW - a few F-bombs are dropped:
WARNING: NSFW - a few F-bombs are dropped:
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Yost Stands By Gagne...For Now
This article discusses the closing situation in St. Louis and Milwaukee. Tony LaRussa has adopted a committee situation there, and apparently Eric Gagne feels like that wouldn't be such a bad idea for Milwaukee.
In the second article, Gagne states that he doesn't "deserve" the ball in the ninth, but Yost refuses to make a decision following a tough loss (because changes should be made after wins, right?).
I don't like the idea of a "closer by committee." If you look at all of the recent World Series winners, one thing in common is that they all had a lights-out closer. Boston's attempt in 2003 to win with a closer by committee was a high-profile disaster that didn't even last a full season. What the Brewers need to do is just give the job to the next guy. And get rid of Gagne (and his salary). And start hitting. And start winning.
UPDATE: Gagne is no longer the closer.
In the second article, Gagne states that he doesn't "deserve" the ball in the ninth, but Yost refuses to make a decision following a tough loss (because changes should be made after wins, right?).
I don't like the idea of a "closer by committee." If you look at all of the recent World Series winners, one thing in common is that they all had a lights-out closer. Boston's attempt in 2003 to win with a closer by committee was a high-profile disaster that didn't even last a full season. What the Brewers need to do is just give the job to the next guy. And get rid of Gagne (and his salary). And start hitting. And start winning.
UPDATE: Gagne is no longer the closer.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Brief Hiatus
The next week is going to be quite busy for me, with a couple of big papers due, a final exam, and a bunch of work for my job. That means I won't be posting as frequently as usual starting today. I should be back to a normal schedule after the 15th.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Listen At Your Own Risk: 8 Can Miss Bands This Summer
At the beginning of the week I posted my “Summer Music Preview”. As a companion to that piece, here is a list of unbelievably terrible bands that will be performing this summer throughout Southeastern Wisconsin. I am in no way recommending that anyone actually go see these bands, unless it is to heckle or mock them and their fans.
May 16
-Blue Oyster Cult; Potawatomi Bingo Casino, Milwaukee
What better opportunity to wear your “More Cowbell” t-shirt than at a Blue Oyster Cult concert? Don’t expect any surprise appearances by Will Ferrell or Christopher Walken though.
June 5
-Bret Michaels; Taste of Summerfest, Waukesha
-Davy Jones; Waukesha Expo Center
Younger readers may recognize Bret Michaels as the official skank magnet for VH1, but according to his Wikipedia page, Michaels is also considered to be a musician.
Younger readers may recognize…well, actually, they won’t recognize Davy Jones at all.
June 7
-Barry Williams aka “Greg Brady” ; Taste of Summerfest, Waukesha
Remember that episode of The Brady Bunch, when Greg daydreams about his future life, touring as a musician to exotic locations like Waukesha, WI?
July 20
-Hootie & the Blowfish; Waukesha Expo Center
Remember back in the fifth grade when all of your friends were rocking out to Cracked Rear View? Yeah, unfortunately so do I.
July 31
-REO Speedwagon; Wisconsin State Fair
This band has been around since 1967 (what?!), and counting the current lineup, there have been 19 Speedwagoners. The only explanation can be that they are going for some sort of Guinness World Record for most uninspired concert performances.
August 6
-Gin Blossoms; Wisconsin State Fair
This is one of two bands on this list that I’ve actually seen (for free of course). It was actually more sad than funny to watch a band that once appeared on Saturday Night Live, struggling through their old songs like a group of mediocre high schoolers.
August 9
-Charlie Daniels Band; Wisconsin State Fair
I went to go see this band for free a few years ago with some friends, and we were planning on spending the entire night making fun of rednecks. Instead we were treated to the musical experience equivalent to viewing the Sistine Chapel for the first time. Just kidding – we mercilessly mocked the band and the hundreds of fans, until we couldn’t stand the smell any longer and left.
May 16
-Blue Oyster Cult; Potawatomi Bingo Casino, Milwaukee
What better opportunity to wear your “More Cowbell” t-shirt than at a Blue Oyster Cult concert? Don’t expect any surprise appearances by Will Ferrell or Christopher Walken though.
June 5
-Bret Michaels; Taste of Summerfest, Waukesha
-Davy Jones; Waukesha Expo Center
Younger readers may recognize Bret Michaels as the official skank magnet for VH1, but according to his Wikipedia page, Michaels is also considered to be a musician.
Younger readers may recognize…well, actually, they won’t recognize Davy Jones at all.
June 7
-Barry Williams aka “Greg Brady” ; Taste of Summerfest, Waukesha
Remember that episode of The Brady Bunch, when Greg daydreams about his future life, touring as a musician to exotic locations like Waukesha, WI?
July 20
-Hootie & the Blowfish; Waukesha Expo Center
Remember back in the fifth grade when all of your friends were rocking out to Cracked Rear View? Yeah, unfortunately so do I.
July 31
-REO Speedwagon; Wisconsin State Fair
This band has been around since 1967 (what?!), and counting the current lineup, there have been 19 Speedwagoners. The only explanation can be that they are going for some sort of Guinness World Record for most uninspired concert performances.
August 6
-Gin Blossoms; Wisconsin State Fair
This is one of two bands on this list that I’ve actually seen (for free of course). It was actually more sad than funny to watch a band that once appeared on Saturday Night Live, struggling through their old songs like a group of mediocre high schoolers.
August 9
-Charlie Daniels Band; Wisconsin State Fair
I went to go see this band for free a few years ago with some friends, and we were planning on spending the entire night making fun of rednecks. Instead we were treated to the musical experience equivalent to viewing the Sistine Chapel for the first time. Just kidding – we mercilessly mocked the band and the hundreds of fans, until we couldn’t stand the smell any longer and left.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Ned Yost
The Brew Crew lost their fourth straight last night, 3-0 to the Marlins. Milwaukee is 3-7 in their last 10 games, have an overall record now of 16-16, and have dropped to fourth place in the NL Central, 5 games behind St. Louis. It all seems like this is the beginning of an unraveling for the Brew Crew, which brings up a couple of questions:
1. Will Ned Yost be fired before the end of the season?
2. Should Yost be fired?
Here's one website that is actively calling for Yost's removal.
1. Will Ned Yost be fired before the end of the season?
2. Should Yost be fired?
Here's one website that is actively calling for Yost's removal.
I'm not sure if Yost will be fired, especially before the end of the season. He seems to have a good relationship with GM Doug Melvin, and Melvin is one of the more conservative GMs out there. If Milwaukee finishes the season with a below-.500 record though, I could definitely see Yost being shown the door.
If there is one definite factor going against Ned Yost, it should be his friendship to Larry "the Cable Guy." At a recent home Brewer game Yost invited the "comedian" to entertain the team, and then he allowed Larry to take batting practice at Miller Park. Is it too early to talk about "The Curse of Larry the Cable Guy?"
Monday, May 5, 2008
Summer Music Preview
Summer is almost here, and that means a lot of different things – baseball, cookouts, mosquito spray, and summer concerts. After checking out the schedules of a few cities for the coming months, I must say that there is little to look forward to. I’m particularly under-whelmed by the Summerfest lineup (headliners include Rush, Rascal Flatts, and Jonas Brothers), and will in all probability skip the annual music festival for the second straight year.
Here’s a preview of some of the artists that will be visiting Madison, Milwaukee, and Chicago this summer:
May 5
-Tokyo Police Club; Metro/Smart Bar, Chicago
May 8
-The Swell Season; Pabst Theater, Milwaukee
May 11
-Flight of the Conchords; Riverside Theatre, Milwaukee
May 14
-Flight of the Conchords; Chicago Theatre
May 23
-North Mississippi Allstars; House of Blues, Chicago
June 1
-B.B. King; House of Blues, Chicago
June 6
-Modest Mouse, The National, R.E.M.; United Center, Chicago
June 7
-Roy Haynes; University of Wisconsin, Madison
June 8
-B.B. King; Grant Park, Chicago
June 9
-B.B. King; Potawatomi Bingo Casino, Milwaukee
June 15
-The Swell Season; Chicago Theatre
June 16
-The Swell Season; Overture Center for the Arts, Madison
June 17, 18
-The Swell Season; Chicago Theatre
June 26
-Stevie Wonder; Summerfest, Marcus Amphitheater
June 28
-Orchestra Baobab; Millennium Park, Chicago
June 29
-Joe Cocker, Steve Miller Band; Summerfest, Marcus Amphitheater
-Orchestra Baobab; Barrymore Theatre, Madison
July 1
-Keller Williams; Summerfest
July 4
-Derek Trucks; Summerfest
July 19
-Vampire Weekend; Union Park, Chicago
July 25
-Elvis Costello, The Police; Marcus Amphitheater, Milwaukee
August 1
-Radiohead, The Black Keys, The Raconteurs, Cat Power; Lollapalooza, Grant Park, Chicago
August 23
-Robert Randolph & The Family Band; Charter One Pav. @ Northerly Isl., Chicago
August 28
-Sonny Rollins; Chicago Jazz Festival
August 31
-Ornette Coleman; Chicago Jazz Festival
Postscript:
While researching for this post, I came across an unbelievably large number of bands that will be touring this summer, that have no right to even still exist. At the end of this week I will post a list of those bands.
Here’s a preview of some of the artists that will be visiting Madison, Milwaukee, and Chicago this summer:
May 5
-Tokyo Police Club; Metro/Smart Bar, Chicago
May 8
-The Swell Season; Pabst Theater, Milwaukee
May 11
-Flight of the Conchords; Riverside Theatre, Milwaukee
May 14
-Flight of the Conchords; Chicago Theatre
May 23
-North Mississippi Allstars; House of Blues, Chicago
June 1
-B.B. King; House of Blues, Chicago
June 6
-Modest Mouse, The National, R.E.M.; United Center, Chicago
June 7
-Roy Haynes; University of Wisconsin, Madison
June 8
-B.B. King; Grant Park, Chicago
June 9
-B.B. King; Potawatomi Bingo Casino, Milwaukee
June 15
-The Swell Season; Chicago Theatre
June 16
-The Swell Season; Overture Center for the Arts, Madison
June 17, 18
-The Swell Season; Chicago Theatre
June 26
-Stevie Wonder; Summerfest, Marcus Amphitheater
June 28
-Orchestra Baobab; Millennium Park, Chicago
June 29
-Joe Cocker, Steve Miller Band; Summerfest, Marcus Amphitheater
-Orchestra Baobab; Barrymore Theatre, Madison
July 1
-Keller Williams; Summerfest
July 4
-Derek Trucks; Summerfest
July 19
-Vampire Weekend; Union Park, Chicago
July 25
-Elvis Costello, The Police; Marcus Amphitheater, Milwaukee
August 1
-Radiohead, The Black Keys, The Raconteurs, Cat Power; Lollapalooza, Grant Park, Chicago
August 23
-Robert Randolph & The Family Band; Charter One Pav. @ Northerly Isl., Chicago
August 28
-Sonny Rollins; Chicago Jazz Festival
August 31
-Ornette Coleman; Chicago Jazz Festival
Postscript:
While researching for this post, I came across an unbelievably large number of bands that will be touring this summer, that have no right to even still exist. At the end of this week I will post a list of those bands.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Milwaukee Faces Long Term Pitching Problems
A team may be able to slug its way to a single victory or a series win, but seasons and pennants are decided by pitching. This is not good news for the Milwaukee Brewers. After the recent discovery that Yovani Gallardo would be lost for most likely the rest of the year, I decided to check out the numbers of this year’s pitching staff, compared to the numbers from last year.
2007 SEASON
Starters – 933 innings, Avg. 5.2 innings a start
Relievers – 511.1 innings, 35% of staff’s total innings
2007 Starters
-8 different Brewers started games, and they averaged 5.2 IP/per start
-They combined for a 60-47 record, with a 4.55 ERA
-Here are the 8 starters’ numbers from last year (total innings, games started, avg. innings per start, ERA, and W/L record):
Suppan – 206.2 IP, 34 GS, 6 IP/start, 4.62 ERA, 12-12 record
Bush – 183.1 IP, 31 GS, 6 IP/start, 5.20 ERA, 10-10
Sheets – 141.1 IP, 24 GS, 6 IP/start, 3.82 ERA, 12-5
Capuano – 135 IP, 25 GS, 5.1 IP/start, 5.20 ERA, 5-10
Vargas – 121.2 IP, 23 GS, 5.1 IP/start, 5.03 ERA, 10-4
Gallardo – 101 IP, 17 GS, 6 IP/start, 3.74 ERA, 9-4
Villanueva – 35 IP, 6 GS, 5.2 IP/start, 2.06 ERA, 2-2
Parra – 9 IP, 2 GS, 4.2 IP/start, 4.00 ERA, 0-0
-If you take Capuano, Vargas, and Gallardo out, you lose 38% of the innings pitched by Milwaukee starters.
2007 Relievers
-Meanwhile, the top 5 relievers from 2007, in terms of most innings pitched:
Villanueva – 79.1 IP, now a starter
Turnbow – 68 IP, no longer on team
Cordero – 63.1 IP, no longer on team
Wise – 53.2 IP, no longer on team
Spurling – 50 IP, not on 25-man roster
-Those 5 relievers accounted for 61% of the innings pitched by Milwaukee relievers.
-Overall, the relief pitchers in 2007 accounted for 35% of the staff’s total innings
So how do the above numbers compare to the team’s pitching numbers so far this year? I’m glad I asked:
2008 SEASON
2008 Starters
178.1 IP, 31 GS, 5.2 IP/game, 4.54 ERA, 7-9 record
Suppan – 34.2 IP, 6 GS, 5.2 IP/start, 5.19 ERA, 1-1 record
Villanueva – 34 IP, 6 GS, 5.2 IP/start, 5.56 ERA, 1-3
Sheets – 39.1 IP, 6 GS, 6.2 IP/start, 2.29 ERA, 4-0
Parra – 27.2 IP, 6 GS, 4.2 IP/start, 5.86 ERA, 1-2
Bush – 22.2 IP, 4 GS, 5.2 IP/start, 6.75 ERA, 0-3
Gallardo – 20 IP, 3 GS, 6.2 IP/start, 1.80 ERA, 0-0
2008 Relievers
31 Games, 105.1 IP, 37% of pitching staff’s total innings
In conclusion, the relievers have already accounted for a higher percentage of innings than they did last year, i.e. they are being worked more. Now with the loss of Gallardo, it seems inevitable that the relievers will see even more work, which is never good news for a big league team.
The bottom line is, if the Brewers don’t get better starts from their rotation, they will have no shot at wining the NL Central. It will come down to Bush, Villanueva, and Parra (and whoever Yost sticks in the rotation). Right now, Sheets is the only starter with an ERA that is under 5.00, and is also the only starter averaging more than 6 innings per start. If the other starters are able to improve and become more consistent, then Milwaukee will at least still be around come the All-Star break.
2007 SEASON
Starters – 933 innings, Avg. 5.2 innings a start
Relievers – 511.1 innings, 35% of staff’s total innings
2007 Starters
-8 different Brewers started games, and they averaged 5.2 IP/per start
-They combined for a 60-47 record, with a 4.55 ERA
-Here are the 8 starters’ numbers from last year (total innings, games started, avg. innings per start, ERA, and W/L record):
Suppan – 206.2 IP, 34 GS, 6 IP/start, 4.62 ERA, 12-12 record
Bush – 183.1 IP, 31 GS, 6 IP/start, 5.20 ERA, 10-10
Sheets – 141.1 IP, 24 GS, 6 IP/start, 3.82 ERA, 12-5
Capuano – 135 IP, 25 GS, 5.1 IP/start, 5.20 ERA, 5-10
Vargas – 121.2 IP, 23 GS, 5.1 IP/start, 5.03 ERA, 10-4
Gallardo – 101 IP, 17 GS, 6 IP/start, 3.74 ERA, 9-4
Villanueva – 35 IP, 6 GS, 5.2 IP/start, 2.06 ERA, 2-2
Parra – 9 IP, 2 GS, 4.2 IP/start, 4.00 ERA, 0-0
-If you take Capuano, Vargas, and Gallardo out, you lose 38% of the innings pitched by Milwaukee starters.
2007 Relievers
-Meanwhile, the top 5 relievers from 2007, in terms of most innings pitched:
Villanueva – 79.1 IP, now a starter
Turnbow – 68 IP, no longer on team
Cordero – 63.1 IP, no longer on team
Wise – 53.2 IP, no longer on team
Spurling – 50 IP, not on 25-man roster
-Those 5 relievers accounted for 61% of the innings pitched by Milwaukee relievers.
-Overall, the relief pitchers in 2007 accounted for 35% of the staff’s total innings
So how do the above numbers compare to the team’s pitching numbers so far this year? I’m glad I asked:
2008 SEASON
2008 Starters
178.1 IP, 31 GS, 5.2 IP/game, 4.54 ERA, 7-9 record
Suppan – 34.2 IP, 6 GS, 5.2 IP/start, 5.19 ERA, 1-1 record
Villanueva – 34 IP, 6 GS, 5.2 IP/start, 5.56 ERA, 1-3
Sheets – 39.1 IP, 6 GS, 6.2 IP/start, 2.29 ERA, 4-0
Parra – 27.2 IP, 6 GS, 4.2 IP/start, 5.86 ERA, 1-2
Bush – 22.2 IP, 4 GS, 5.2 IP/start, 6.75 ERA, 0-3
Gallardo – 20 IP, 3 GS, 6.2 IP/start, 1.80 ERA, 0-0
2008 Relievers
31 Games, 105.1 IP, 37% of pitching staff’s total innings
In conclusion, the relievers have already accounted for a higher percentage of innings than they did last year, i.e. they are being worked more. Now with the loss of Gallardo, it seems inevitable that the relievers will see even more work, which is never good news for a big league team.
The bottom line is, if the Brewers don’t get better starts from their rotation, they will have no shot at wining the NL Central. It will come down to Bush, Villanueva, and Parra (and whoever Yost sticks in the rotation). Right now, Sheets is the only starter with an ERA that is under 5.00, and is also the only starter averaging more than 6 innings per start. If the other starters are able to improve and become more consistent, then Milwaukee will at least still be around come the All-Star break.
Gagne Blows Another One
Brewers' closer Eric Gagne blew another save opportunity today, and that is his fifth blown save of the year. Milwaukee is in extra innings right now for the 9th time this season. They are 5-3 in extra-innings.
Last year, the Brewers appeared in 14 extra-inning games, and posted a 8-6 record. Three teams last year tied for the most extra-inning games - San Diego, Colorado, and San Francisco all appeared in 21 extra-inning contests.
The TV announcers just mentioned that the last Brewer starting pitcher to get a win, other than Ben Sheets, was Manny Parra back on April 5th! Later tonight I will be posting on the condition of Milwaukee's pitching staff.
Last year, the Brewers appeared in 14 extra-inning games, and posted a 8-6 record. Three teams last year tied for the most extra-inning games - San Diego, Colorado, and San Francisco all appeared in 21 extra-inning contests.
The TV announcers just mentioned that the last Brewer starting pitcher to get a win, other than Ben Sheets, was Manny Parra back on April 5th! Later tonight I will be posting on the condition of Milwaukee's pitching staff.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Potholes!
I have just stumbled across a goldmine of unintentional comedy, courtesy of the former mayor of my hometown. Gary Kohlenberg was at one time the mayor of Oconomowoc, WI, and I guess he recently ran for alderman. Check out these hilarious videos he produced. If you go to his Youtube profile, he actually has posted 17 videos.
I love how he suddenly appears at the beginning of the next video:
I can't even find the words for this last one:
I love how he suddenly appears at the beginning of the next video:
I can't even find the words for this last one:
Gallardo Possibly Gone For Season
Milwaukee's Yovani Gallardo will probably miss the remainder of the 2008 season, after tearing his right ACL.
Can the Brewers overcome this latest setback and compete in the NL Central? My gut tells me no. Gallardo was emerging as a great starting pitcher for the Brewers, and losing him leaves a big gap in the rotation. The inconsistent Dave Bush will get the first shot at plugging that hole. Bush started 1 game for AAA-Nashville, going 6 innings and allowing 1 ER. Here's what the Brewers have down in the farm system:
-Jeff Weaver, AAA: 5 innings, 4 ER
-Zach Jackson, AAA: 5 starts, 8.36 ERA
-Chris Narveson, AAA: 5 starts, 4.18 ERA
-Derek Miller, AA: 6 starts, 2.05 ERA
-Sam Narron, AA: 5 starts, 2.90 ERA
-Steve Hammond, AA: 33 1/3 innings, 39 strikeouts, 3.51 ERA
Can the Brewers overcome this latest setback and compete in the NL Central? My gut tells me no. Gallardo was emerging as a great starting pitcher for the Brewers, and losing him leaves a big gap in the rotation. The inconsistent Dave Bush will get the first shot at plugging that hole. Bush started 1 game for AAA-Nashville, going 6 innings and allowing 1 ER. Here's what the Brewers have down in the farm system:
-Jeff Weaver, AAA: 5 innings, 4 ER
-Zach Jackson, AAA: 5 starts, 8.36 ERA
-Chris Narveson, AAA: 5 starts, 4.18 ERA
-Derek Miller, AA: 6 starts, 2.05 ERA
-Sam Narron, AA: 5 starts, 2.90 ERA
-Steve Hammond, AA: 33 1/3 innings, 39 strikeouts, 3.51 ERA
How Low Can He Go? Turnbow Sent Down
If you go to JSOnline right now, you will see the following announcement in three different spots on the front page: "Brewers designate Turnbow for assignment." If it weren't raining out right now, I would be on the rooftop shouting those words.
I read last night that GM Doug Melvin and manager Ned Yost had held a meeting to decide the fate of the often-disappointing reliever, and after his performance Wednesday night, this should be no surprise.
Turnbow came to the Brewers in 2005, saved 39 games, posted an ERA of 1.74, and promptly made Milwaukee fans forget about Dan Kolb. But lightning has yet to strike twice for Turnbow. In 2006, he saved only 24 games, lost 9, and had a 6.87 ERA. Last year he showed some improvement: 4.63 ERA and 84 strikeouts in 68 innings. But he has never shown the consistency he displayed as an All-Star in '05.
This year, his numbers were absolutely pitiful: 8 games, 6 1/3 innings, 11 ER, 12 hits, 13 BB, 5 Ks, 15.63 ERA, and an opponent's BA of .414.
To complete the roster move, the Brewers recalled utility fielder Joe Dillon.
I read last night that GM Doug Melvin and manager Ned Yost had held a meeting to decide the fate of the often-disappointing reliever, and after his performance Wednesday night, this should be no surprise.
Turnbow came to the Brewers in 2005, saved 39 games, posted an ERA of 1.74, and promptly made Milwaukee fans forget about Dan Kolb. But lightning has yet to strike twice for Turnbow. In 2006, he saved only 24 games, lost 9, and had a 6.87 ERA. Last year he showed some improvement: 4.63 ERA and 84 strikeouts in 68 innings. But he has never shown the consistency he displayed as an All-Star in '05.
This year, his numbers were absolutely pitiful: 8 games, 6 1/3 innings, 11 ER, 12 hits, 13 BB, 5 Ks, 15.63 ERA, and an opponent's BA of .414.
To complete the roster move, the Brewers recalled utility fielder Joe Dillon.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
"That sounds delicious."
I don't watch The Colbert Report as much as I used to, but I did catch it last night. In addition to challenging J.D. Salinger to appear on his show (apparently Colbert will rip out one story every night from Salinger's Nine Stories until the author agrees to show up), Colbert sat down with the congresswoman from Guam for a hilarious interview:
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