I am watching a live press conference in New York City on CNN following an Islamic terrorist attack caused by a man in a Home Depot truck who ran down innocent civilians on a bike path near the World Trade Center between Houston and Chambers Streets. NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio states that eight people have been killed.
The perpetrator was shot and detained by the NYPD. He has not been identified but has been described as "Middle Eastern". Of course, that doesn't mean he was born outside the United States for those of you who support President Trump's Muslim travel ban. But witnesses report the perpetrator was shouting "Allahu Akbar" as the act was being committed.
Of course, with today being Halloween and people being out and about, today's attack was an opportune time to maximize civilian casualties and to show disdain for an occasion deemed to be a holiday observed by pagans and infidels.
Fortunately, the people of New York will not be deterred. The Halloween Parade will proceed as scheduled.
Needless to say there will be more to follow.
UPDATE: The perpetrator has been identified as Sayfullo Saipov. Originally from Uzbekistan, he came to the United States in 2010. There is speculation that he is a refugee. He has been living in New Jersey, but previously resided in Florida.
Of course, now there will be renewed calls for Trump's Muslim Ban including from Trump himself. Not that Trump knew Uzbekistan even existed until today. After all, it has not been the target of any of his bans to date though I'm sure this will change.
Islamic jihadism is an ideology which transcends borders. Even if the Trump Administration is successfully in restricting travel from the Middle East there are plenty of people born and raised in this country who hate it every bit as much as Saipov and a travel ban isn't about to stop them.
Tuesday, October 31, 2017
Monday, October 30, 2017
Dodgers Director of Player Development Gabe Kapler to Manage Phillies
The Philadelphia Phillies have named Gabe Kapler their new manager beating out Dusty Wathan, manager of the team's Triple-AAA affiliate in Lehigh Valley and former Boston Red Sox manager John Farrell for the position.
Kapler, who played in MLB with the Detroit Tigers, Texas Rangers, Colorado Rockies, Boston Red Sox, Milwaukee Brewers and Tampa Bay Rays over 12 seasons, has been the Director of Player Development for the Los Angeles Dodgers since 2014. The team considered him as Don Mattingly's potential successor, but opted for Dave Roberts which has worked out well for them. Kapler does have managerial experience at the minor league level. In 2007, he managed the Greenville Drive, the short season single A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. But following a last place finish, Kapler would return as an active player with the Brewers the following year.
Although the Phillies lost 98 games in 2017, the team surprised many by moving manager Pete Mackanin upstairs after playing .500 ball with the help of newcomers Rhys Hoskins and Nick Williams. Instead of promoting Wathan, Phillies GM Matt Klentak opted to go outside the organization.
While with the Dodgers this year, Kapler came under scrutiny for his treatment of Nick Francona (the son of Terry Francona with whom Kapler would earn a World Series ring in 2004) alleged that Kapler had him fired from the Dodgers for seeking a health assessment from Home Base, a Boston area veterans service organization. Francona served in combat in Afghanistan. MLB cleared Kapler of any wrongdoing, but Francona remains steadfast about Kapler's behavior.
From where I sit the jury is out on Kapler as a manager. I think the Phillies should have stuck with Mackanin, but if they had to make a change it would have been wiser to promote Wathan. I've a feeling the Phillies will remain in the NL East cellar.
Kapler, who played in MLB with the Detroit Tigers, Texas Rangers, Colorado Rockies, Boston Red Sox, Milwaukee Brewers and Tampa Bay Rays over 12 seasons, has been the Director of Player Development for the Los Angeles Dodgers since 2014. The team considered him as Don Mattingly's potential successor, but opted for Dave Roberts which has worked out well for them. Kapler does have managerial experience at the minor league level. In 2007, he managed the Greenville Drive, the short season single A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. But following a last place finish, Kapler would return as an active player with the Brewers the following year.
Although the Phillies lost 98 games in 2017, the team surprised many by moving manager Pete Mackanin upstairs after playing .500 ball with the help of newcomers Rhys Hoskins and Nick Williams. Instead of promoting Wathan, Phillies GM Matt Klentak opted to go outside the organization.
While with the Dodgers this year, Kapler came under scrutiny for his treatment of Nick Francona (the son of Terry Francona with whom Kapler would earn a World Series ring in 2004) alleged that Kapler had him fired from the Dodgers for seeking a health assessment from Home Base, a Boston area veterans service organization. Francona served in combat in Afghanistan. MLB cleared Kapler of any wrongdoing, but Francona remains steadfast about Kapler's behavior.
From where I sit the jury is out on Kapler as a manager. I think the Phillies should have stuck with Mackanin, but if they had to make a change it would have been wiser to promote Wathan. I've a feeling the Phillies will remain in the NL East cellar.
Nationals Name Dave Martinez New Manager
The Washington Nationals have named Dave Martinez their new manager. He succeeds Dusty Baker whose contract was not renewed despite leading the team to back to back NL East titles.
Martinez signed a three year deal with a club option for 2021. He has spent the past 10 seasons as Joe Maddon's lieutenant with the Tampa Bay Rays and the Chicago Cubs. He went to the World Series with the Rays in 2008 and earned a World Series ring with the 2016 Cubs. His association with Martinez has earned him several managerial interviews including with the Nats prior to the 2014 season (they chose Matt Williams at that time).
He is the Nationals' 7th manager since relocating to D.C. from Montreal in 2005. Despite his three year contract one must how long his tenure will be if the Nats fail to make the post-season in 2018 and 2019.
Like Alex Cora in Boston, Martinez has long been regarded as a future manager. But I think things will get worse in D.C. before they get better. Martinez may soon long to be back at Maddon's side.
Martinez signed a three year deal with a club option for 2021. He has spent the past 10 seasons as Joe Maddon's lieutenant with the Tampa Bay Rays and the Chicago Cubs. He went to the World Series with the Rays in 2008 and earned a World Series ring with the 2016 Cubs. His association with Martinez has earned him several managerial interviews including with the Nats prior to the 2014 season (they chose Matt Williams at that time).
He is the Nationals' 7th manager since relocating to D.C. from Montreal in 2005. Despite his three year contract one must how long his tenure will be if the Nats fail to make the post-season in 2018 and 2019.
Like Alex Cora in Boston, Martinez has long been regarded as a future manager. But I think things will get worse in D.C. before they get better. Martinez may soon long to be back at Maddon's side.
Will Manafort Give Up Trump to Mueller? Probably Not.
Given that Robert Mueller has handed down an indictment to former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort and a couple of associates for business activities which pre-dated his association with Trump one wonders if Mueller did this in the hope that Manafort will hand him Trump on a silver platter.
If that is the case it seems like an awfully long gambit. I doubt Manafort was around long enough to know where the bodies were buried much less gain access to Trump's inner circle.
Of course, a lot of this depends on Trump himself. For now, he is playing it well as demonstrated by his tweet, "Sorry, but this is years ago, before Paul Manafort was part of the Trump campaign. But why aren't Crooked Hillary & the Dems the focus?????"
Trump correctly states Manafort has been accused of transgressions which dated his presidential run and then puts it back on Hillary much to the delight of his MAGA supporters.
If Trump continues to play it this way then he should come out fine.
But this is Trump we're talking about. Who knows what he'll be thinking the next time he accesses his Twitter account.
If Trump fires Mueller then public perception will be that Mueller is getting close and that Trump has something to hide.
It is in Trump's interest to leave Mueller alone and let things ride their course. But if Trump was willing to fire Comey and get away with it why wouldn't he do the same to Mueller?
When it is all said and done I doubt anything Mueller does will result in Trump leaving office. Only the voters can do that. But as long as Democrats are too busy condemning Trump supporters instead of asking them where all the winning is then I don't think this will come to pass either.
If that is the case it seems like an awfully long gambit. I doubt Manafort was around long enough to know where the bodies were buried much less gain access to Trump's inner circle.
Of course, a lot of this depends on Trump himself. For now, he is playing it well as demonstrated by his tweet, "Sorry, but this is years ago, before Paul Manafort was part of the Trump campaign. But why aren't Crooked Hillary & the Dems the focus?????"
Trump correctly states Manafort has been accused of transgressions which dated his presidential run and then puts it back on Hillary much to the delight of his MAGA supporters.
If Trump continues to play it this way then he should come out fine.
But this is Trump we're talking about. Who knows what he'll be thinking the next time he accesses his Twitter account.
If Trump fires Mueller then public perception will be that Mueller is getting close and that Trump has something to hide.
It is in Trump's interest to leave Mueller alone and let things ride their course. But if Trump was willing to fire Comey and get away with it why wouldn't he do the same to Mueller?
When it is all said and done I doubt anything Mueller does will result in Trump leaving office. Only the voters can do that. But as long as Democrats are too busy condemning Trump supporters instead of asking them where all the winning is then I don't think this will come to pass either.
Sunday, October 29, 2017
Game 5 of the 2017 World Series Will Go Down As One Of The Best Ever
In this day and age, baseball pundits complain of long games.
Game 5 of the 2017 World Series went 5 hours and 17 minutes.
As of now nobody is complaining about the length of this game, especially Houston Astros fans who saw their team prevail 13-12 in 10 innings to take a 3-2 lead in the Fall Classic.
Things did not look good for the Astros at the start of the game. The Dodgers scored three runs off 2015 AL Cy Young Award winner Dallas Keuchel in the first inning. He was done by the fourth inning when he gave up another run.
The Dodgers were up 4-0 with Clayton Kershaw on the mound. The Dodgers are 100-1 when Kershaw pitches with a four run lead.
That is until tonight.
The Astros would tie the game in the fourth on a double by Carlos Correa and a home run by Yuli Gurriel.
But the Dodgers would take a 7-4 lead in the fifth on a three run home run by Cody Bellinger.
The Astros would tie the game 7-7 in the bottom of the inning on a three run home run by Jose Altuve. Kershaw was done after 4 2/3 IP and gave up six runs. This was a far cry from Game 1 which Keuchel and Kershaw started which lasted a brisk 2 hours and 28 minutes.
The Dodgers took a 8-7 lead in the 7th on a triple by Bellinger on an ill-advised dive by Astros center fielder George Springer.
Springer would lead off the the 7th. I wondered if Springer would try to hit the ball six ways to Sunday. He did exactly did that tying the game 8-8.
Later in the inning, the Astros would take their first lead of the game on a double by Altuve and a home run by Correa. The Astros were on top 11-8. All four runs were surrendered by Dodgers' reliever Brandon Morrow who did not retire a single batter. I told my Dad the scoring was not done.
The Dodgers would cut Houston's lead to two on a Corey Seager double in the the top of the 8th. The Astros got that run back in the bottom of the inning on a solo HR by Brian McCann. The Astros went to the 9th with a 12-9 lead.
The Dodgers, however, were not done. They cut the lead to 12-11 on a two run home run by Yasiel Puig. After an Austin Barnes double and with two outs and two strikes, Chris Taylor stroked a game tying single up the middle to tie the game at 12-12.
If the game had ended in 9 innings it would have the longest game in MLB history at 4 hours and 52 minutes. But this game would need one more inning.
After retiring the first two Astros hitters, Dodgers closer Kenley Jansen would plunk McCann and walk Springer. When McCann reached scoring position, Derek Fisher was sent in to pinch run. This would be a crucial move as moments later Alex Bregman singled home Fisher to win the game 13-12.
This summary isn't doing this game justice. The Astros tied the game thrice before finally taking the lead only to lose it before finally winning the game.
To give you an idea of how great this game was is that it now overshadows Game 2 which the Astros won 7-6 in 11 innings. They tied the game in the 9th on a home run by Marwin Gonzalez, took a lead in the 10th on back to back HRs by Altuve and Correa, the Dodgers tied it in the 10th on a HR by Puig and a double by Kike Hernandez before winning it in the 11th on a HR by Springer.
Even Astros manager A.J. Hinch believes Game 2 pales in comparison to Game 5. The scary thing is there is one, maybe two more games to come. The final chapter has yet to be written.
The Astros can clinch their first ever World Series title on Halloween in L.A. with Justin Verlander on the mound.
Game 5 of the 2017 World Series went 5 hours and 17 minutes.
As of now nobody is complaining about the length of this game, especially Houston Astros fans who saw their team prevail 13-12 in 10 innings to take a 3-2 lead in the Fall Classic.
Things did not look good for the Astros at the start of the game. The Dodgers scored three runs off 2015 AL Cy Young Award winner Dallas Keuchel in the first inning. He was done by the fourth inning when he gave up another run.
The Dodgers were up 4-0 with Clayton Kershaw on the mound. The Dodgers are 100-1 when Kershaw pitches with a four run lead.
That is until tonight.
The Astros would tie the game in the fourth on a double by Carlos Correa and a home run by Yuli Gurriel.
But the Dodgers would take a 7-4 lead in the fifth on a three run home run by Cody Bellinger.
The Astros would tie the game 7-7 in the bottom of the inning on a three run home run by Jose Altuve. Kershaw was done after 4 2/3 IP and gave up six runs. This was a far cry from Game 1 which Keuchel and Kershaw started which lasted a brisk 2 hours and 28 minutes.
The Dodgers took a 8-7 lead in the 7th on a triple by Bellinger on an ill-advised dive by Astros center fielder George Springer.
Springer would lead off the the 7th. I wondered if Springer would try to hit the ball six ways to Sunday. He did exactly did that tying the game 8-8.
Later in the inning, the Astros would take their first lead of the game on a double by Altuve and a home run by Correa. The Astros were on top 11-8. All four runs were surrendered by Dodgers' reliever Brandon Morrow who did not retire a single batter. I told my Dad the scoring was not done.
The Dodgers would cut Houston's lead to two on a Corey Seager double in the the top of the 8th. The Astros got that run back in the bottom of the inning on a solo HR by Brian McCann. The Astros went to the 9th with a 12-9 lead.
The Dodgers, however, were not done. They cut the lead to 12-11 on a two run home run by Yasiel Puig. After an Austin Barnes double and with two outs and two strikes, Chris Taylor stroked a game tying single up the middle to tie the game at 12-12.
If the game had ended in 9 innings it would have the longest game in MLB history at 4 hours and 52 minutes. But this game would need one more inning.
After retiring the first two Astros hitters, Dodgers closer Kenley Jansen would plunk McCann and walk Springer. When McCann reached scoring position, Derek Fisher was sent in to pinch run. This would be a crucial move as moments later Alex Bregman singled home Fisher to win the game 13-12.
This summary isn't doing this game justice. The Astros tied the game thrice before finally taking the lead only to lose it before finally winning the game.
To give you an idea of how great this game was is that it now overshadows Game 2 which the Astros won 7-6 in 11 innings. They tied the game in the 9th on a home run by Marwin Gonzalez, took a lead in the 10th on back to back HRs by Altuve and Correa, the Dodgers tied it in the 10th on a HR by Puig and a double by Kike Hernandez before winning it in the 11th on a HR by Springer.
Even Astros manager A.J. Hinch believes Game 2 pales in comparison to Game 5. The scary thing is there is one, maybe two more games to come. The final chapter has yet to be written.
The Astros can clinch their first ever World Series title on Halloween in L.A. with Justin Verlander on the mound.
Thursday, October 26, 2017
Yankees Part Ways With Joe Girardi
After 10 seasons, the New York Yankees have parted ways with Joe Girardi as their manager.
During Girardi's tenure, the Yankees went 910-710 representing the best record of any team from 2008 through 2017 with three AL East titles, three AL Wild Card berths and a World Series title in 2009.
The Yankees were not expected to be post-season bound in 2017. But Aaron Judge and company exceeded all expectations winning the AL Wild Card and eliminating the Cleveland Indians in the ALDS down 0-2, a team mind you that had the best record in the AL. The Yankees fell shy in the ALCS against the Houston Astros after taking a 3-2 lead in the series.
But Girardi was on tenterhooks all season as he would be without contract after 2017. If losing the ALCS was enough to cost Girardi his job one must wonder if winning the World Series was the only thing which could have given him a lifeline.
Of course if George Steinbrenner were still running the Yankees, Girardi would have been fired long ago. Let's remember that Bob Lemon was out of a job halfway through the 1979 season after taking the Yankees from down 14.5 games to the Red Sox to a World Series title in 1978. Let's remember that Dick Howser was out of a job despite leading the team to 103 wins when they were swept by the Kansas City Royals in the ALCS. Let's remember Billy Martin was fired after the Yankees finished 1 game back of the Toronto Blue Jays in the AL East following the 1985 season. Of course, Steinbrenner hired and fired Martin five times.
So in the grand scheme of things, Steinbrenner's sons gave Girardi a much larger lease than their father ever would have. But if there was a season where Girardi should have been given some slack this was surely it.
The Yankees are now the third team in this post-season to have dismissed their manager. The Boston Red Sox fired John Farrell after being eliminated by the Astros (and have replaced him with Astros bench coach Alex Cora) while the Washington Nationals didn't renew Dusty Baker's contract despite winning NL East titles in both seasons in their dugout.
As with the the Red Sox and Nationals, I think Yankees and their fans will be in for a rude awakening in 2018. It isn't to say the Yankees won't pick a good candidate. But I don't think the team and especially their fans appreciated what it had and believe they will take a step backwards next year.
During Girardi's tenure, the Yankees went 910-710 representing the best record of any team from 2008 through 2017 with three AL East titles, three AL Wild Card berths and a World Series title in 2009.
The Yankees were not expected to be post-season bound in 2017. But Aaron Judge and company exceeded all expectations winning the AL Wild Card and eliminating the Cleveland Indians in the ALDS down 0-2, a team mind you that had the best record in the AL. The Yankees fell shy in the ALCS against the Houston Astros after taking a 3-2 lead in the series.
But Girardi was on tenterhooks all season as he would be without contract after 2017. If losing the ALCS was enough to cost Girardi his job one must wonder if winning the World Series was the only thing which could have given him a lifeline.
Of course if George Steinbrenner were still running the Yankees, Girardi would have been fired long ago. Let's remember that Bob Lemon was out of a job halfway through the 1979 season after taking the Yankees from down 14.5 games to the Red Sox to a World Series title in 1978. Let's remember that Dick Howser was out of a job despite leading the team to 103 wins when they were swept by the Kansas City Royals in the ALCS. Let's remember Billy Martin was fired after the Yankees finished 1 game back of the Toronto Blue Jays in the AL East following the 1985 season. Of course, Steinbrenner hired and fired Martin five times.
So in the grand scheme of things, Steinbrenner's sons gave Girardi a much larger lease than their father ever would have. But if there was a season where Girardi should have been given some slack this was surely it.
The Yankees are now the third team in this post-season to have dismissed their manager. The Boston Red Sox fired John Farrell after being eliminated by the Astros (and have replaced him with Astros bench coach Alex Cora) while the Washington Nationals didn't renew Dusty Baker's contract despite winning NL East titles in both seasons in their dugout.
As with the the Red Sox and Nationals, I think Yankees and their fans will be in for a rude awakening in 2018. It isn't to say the Yankees won't pick a good candidate. But I don't think the team and especially their fans appreciated what it had and believe they will take a step backwards next year.
Wednesday, October 25, 2017
Fats Domino, R.I.P.
Rock 'n roll pioneer Fats Domino passed away yesterday at the age of 89 after a lengthy illness.
The New Orleans native had a string of hits during the 1950's and early 1960's including "I'm Walkin'", "Walkin' to New Orleans", "Ain't That a Shame" and "Blueberry Hill". I suspect many like myself who were born in the 1970's first heard "Blueberry Hill" on Happy Days when it was sung by Richie Cunningham on those occasions it looked like he was headed to Inspiration Point.
Domino made headlines in 2005 when his home was destroyed during Hurricane Katrina. Also destroyed were many of his possessions including his gold records and the Presidential Medal of Freedom which was bestowed upon him by President Clinton. President Bush would personally deliver a new Presidential Medal to legendary pianist.
Last November, I heard Robbie Robertson say he was planning to produce a TV documentary on the history of rock 'n roll with Domino, Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis and Little Richard. At the time, I wrote, "Robertson says the time is right to do such a show really, really well. Well, I think he better do it really, really fast."
I hope Robertson made good on his word because Berry died in March and now Domino is gone. Lewis just turned 82 and Little Richard turns 85 in December and they aren't getting any younger.
I leave you one of Domino's underappreciated gems - "Whole Lotta Lovin'". R.I.P.
The New Orleans native had a string of hits during the 1950's and early 1960's including "I'm Walkin'", "Walkin' to New Orleans", "Ain't That a Shame" and "Blueberry Hill". I suspect many like myself who were born in the 1970's first heard "Blueberry Hill" on Happy Days when it was sung by Richie Cunningham on those occasions it looked like he was headed to Inspiration Point.
Domino made headlines in 2005 when his home was destroyed during Hurricane Katrina. Also destroyed were many of his possessions including his gold records and the Presidential Medal of Freedom which was bestowed upon him by President Clinton. President Bush would personally deliver a new Presidential Medal to legendary pianist.
Last November, I heard Robbie Robertson say he was planning to produce a TV documentary on the history of rock 'n roll with Domino, Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis and Little Richard. At the time, I wrote, "Robertson says the time is right to do such a show really, really well. Well, I think he better do it really, really fast."
I hope Robertson made good on his word because Berry died in March and now Domino is gone. Lewis just turned 82 and Little Richard turns 85 in December and they aren't getting any younger.
I leave you one of Domino's underappreciated gems - "Whole Lotta Lovin'". R.I.P.
Tuesday, October 24, 2017
George Young, R.I.P.
Guitar player, songwriter and producer George Young passed away on October 22nd at the age of 70.
Chances are you might not now Young's name, but you most certainly know some of the music he wrote or produced.
The Scottish born Young emigrated to Australia in his teens. Young would soon become friends with a Dutch emigre named Harry Vanda. Eventually Young and Vanda found a singer named Stevie Wright and they would form The Easybeats. In 1966, they attained international stardom with the working class anthem "Friday On My Mind".
When the group was unable to replicate the success of "Friday On My Mind", Young and Vanda turned their attention to songwriting and producing beginning with Wright's short-lived solo career which was highlighted by the 11-minute epic "Evie". Young and Vanda most notable collaboration involved Young's younger brothers Angus and Malcolm. That's right. I'm talking about AC/DC. Young and Vanda would produce the group's first six albums before they became international stars at the hands of "Mutt" Lange circa 1979/1980 with Highway to Hell and Back in Black. From the sublime to the ridiculous, Young and Vanda also wrote and produced "Love Is In The Air" which became a late 1970's international hit sung by John Paul Young (no relation).
Have a listen to "Friday On My Mind" below. R.I.P.
Chances are you might not now Young's name, but you most certainly know some of the music he wrote or produced.
The Scottish born Young emigrated to Australia in his teens. Young would soon become friends with a Dutch emigre named Harry Vanda. Eventually Young and Vanda found a singer named Stevie Wright and they would form The Easybeats. In 1966, they attained international stardom with the working class anthem "Friday On My Mind".
When the group was unable to replicate the success of "Friday On My Mind", Young and Vanda turned their attention to songwriting and producing beginning with Wright's short-lived solo career which was highlighted by the 11-minute epic "Evie". Young and Vanda most notable collaboration involved Young's younger brothers Angus and Malcolm. That's right. I'm talking about AC/DC. Young and Vanda would produce the group's first six albums before they became international stars at the hands of "Mutt" Lange circa 1979/1980 with Highway to Hell and Back in Black. From the sublime to the ridiculous, Young and Vanda also wrote and produced "Love Is In The Air" which became a late 1970's international hit sung by John Paul Young (no relation).
Have a listen to "Friday On My Mind" below. R.I.P.
My 2017 World Series Prediction: Dodgers in Six
The 2017 World Series between the Houston Astros and Los Angeles Dodgers gets underway in just over an hour.
Both teams won over 100 games in the regular season.
While the Astros have the likes of potential AL MVP Jose Altuve, Carlos Correa and two former Cy Young winners in Dallas Keuchel and Justin Verlander, the Dodgers have Cody Bellinger, Justin Turner plus Clayton Kershaw and Kenley Jansen.
It is Jansen and the bullpen which I think gives the Dodgers the edge in this contest.
With that, I pick the Dodgers in six and their first World Series parade since 1988.
Both teams won over 100 games in the regular season.
While the Astros have the likes of potential AL MVP Jose Altuve, Carlos Correa and two former Cy Young winners in Dallas Keuchel and Justin Verlander, the Dodgers have Cody Bellinger, Justin Turner plus Clayton Kershaw and Kenley Jansen.
It is Jansen and the bullpen which I think gives the Dodgers the edge in this contest.
With that, I pick the Dodgers in six and their first World Series parade since 1988.
Robert Guillaume, R.I.P.
Actor/singer Robert Guillaume passed away today of prostate cancer. He was a month shy of his 90th birthday.
Guillaume is best known for playing the butler Benson first on the ABC TV series Soap before being given his own series Benson which aired on ABC from 1979 to 1986. He won Emmy Awards for his performance as Benson on both shows.
In the 1990's, Guillaume would take the in the L.A. stage production of The Phantom of the Opera, voice Rafiki in The Lion King and star in the short-lived ABC TV series Sports Night. While involved with that show, Guillaume suffered a stroke which slowed his career down considerably though he would continue in show business mainly as a voice actor.
But it is his role as Benson DuBois for which I shall always remember Guillaume. I remember his sharp tongue and quick wit. He was one of the first African-American actors to have the lead in a TV show and was the first to win an Emmy in a comedic role. In many ways Benson was ahead of the curve, but for some reason is seldom seen in syndication. In light of Guillaume's passing, I hope this is remedied even if it is posthumously.
In the video clip above, Guillaume describes the evolution of the Benson character. R.I.P.
Guillaume is best known for playing the butler Benson first on the ABC TV series Soap before being given his own series Benson which aired on ABC from 1979 to 1986. He won Emmy Awards for his performance as Benson on both shows.
In the 1990's, Guillaume would take the in the L.A. stage production of The Phantom of the Opera, voice Rafiki in The Lion King and star in the short-lived ABC TV series Sports Night. While involved with that show, Guillaume suffered a stroke which slowed his career down considerably though he would continue in show business mainly as a voice actor.
But it is his role as Benson DuBois for which I shall always remember Guillaume. I remember his sharp tongue and quick wit. He was one of the first African-American actors to have the lead in a TV show and was the first to win an Emmy in a comedic role. In many ways Benson was ahead of the curve, but for some reason is seldom seen in syndication. In light of Guillaume's passing, I hope this is remedied even if it is posthumously.
In the video clip above, Guillaume describes the evolution of the Benson character. R.I.P.
Flaking Out
Here is an excerpt of Senator Jeff Flake's parting shot to President Trump on the Senate floor this afternoon:
We must never regard as “normal” the regular and casual undermining of our democratic norms and ideals. We must never meekly accept the daily sundering of our country
- the personal attacks, the threats against principles, freedoms, and
institutions, the flagrant disregard for truth or decency, the reckless
provocations, most often for the pettiest and most personal reasons,
reasons having nothing whatsoever to do with the fortunes of the people
that we have all been elected to serve.
None of these appalling features of our current politics should ever be regarded as normal. We must never allow ourselves to lapse into thinking that this is just the way things are now. If we simply become inured to this condition, thinking that this is just politics as usual, then heaven help us. Without fear of the consequences, and without consideration of the rules of what is politically safe or palatable, we must stop pretending that the degradation of our politics and the conduct of some in our executive branch are normal. They are not normal.
Reckless, outrageous, and undignified behavior has become excused and countenanced as “telling it like it is, ” when it is actually just reckless, outrageous, and undignified.
And when such behavior emanates from the top of our government, it is something else: It is dangerous to a democracy. Such behavior does not project strength – because our strength comes from our values. It instead projects a corruption of the spirit, and weakness.
Yet I find myself in agreement with Vox's Ezra Klein. Jeff Flake should have announced he was seeking re-election rather than abdicate his re-election bid on the Senate floor:
None of these appalling features of our current politics should ever be regarded as normal. We must never allow ourselves to lapse into thinking that this is just the way things are now. If we simply become inured to this condition, thinking that this is just politics as usual, then heaven help us. Without fear of the consequences, and without consideration of the rules of what is politically safe or palatable, we must stop pretending that the degradation of our politics and the conduct of some in our executive branch are normal. They are not normal.
And when such behavior emanates from the top of our government, it is something else: It is dangerous to a democracy. Such behavior does not project strength – because our strength comes from our values. It instead projects a corruption of the spirit, and weakness.
Yet I find myself in agreement with Vox's Ezra Klein. Jeff Flake should have announced he was seeking re-election rather than abdicate his re-election bid on the Senate floor:
Flake’s speech on the floor of the Senate on Tuesday will
prove a historic document in American politics. It is an explosive
denunciation of the president of the United States, and of his
Republican enablers. Flake has long been critical of President Trump, but he has never made his case so starkly, nor condemned his fellow Republicans for their silence and cowardice so clearly.
But in choosing to retire rather than run for reelection,
Flake is sending the worst possible message to his colleagues,
empowering the president he loathes, and accelerating the takeover of
the Republican Party that he laments.
America does not need Flake’s courageous retirement. It needs his courageous reelection campaign.
Instead the GOP standard bearer will be Trump apologist Kelli Ward. I know there are those who think this seat is an opportunity for the Democrats, but this is wishful thinking. Flake is surrendering without a fight. In so doing he is sending the message that neither the soul of the Republican Party nor the sobriety of the Senate is worth the fight. Indeed by retiring, Flake undercut one of the central points of his speech:
And there are times when we must risk our careers in favor of our principles. Now is such a time.
But Flake isn't risking anything now. He gets to go home to a nice Congressional pension and perhaps a sinecure at the Kennedy School of Government or some other highbrow institution. Soon Trump will to take to Twitter to mock Flake. Not that he needs any encouragement.
Flake's word would mean a lot more if he was prepared to go down fighting. Yes, there is a good chance he would have lost to Ward in the primary, but at least he would fought for something worthy. It's all the more reason to stay and to fight on. At least he would have tried.
Instead his words are empty calories. In other, Jeff Flake just plain flaked out.
Monday, October 23, 2017
In Smearing a Pregnant Gold Star Widow Trump Proves He Doesn't Know When To Stop Fighting
I am not surprised in the least that President Trump would take to Twitter to attack Myeshia Johnson.
If someone can smear Gold Star mother then he can surely smear a pregnant Gold Star widow.
This morning Johnson appeared on Good Morning America to confirm Congresswoman Frederica Wilson's account of President Trump's phone call when the body of her husband Sgt. La David Johnson was returned home.
In response, Trump wrote, "I had a very respectful conversation with the widow of Sgt. La David Johnson, and spoke his name from beginning, without hesitation!"
I am sure that by this afternoon White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders will say that the President was fighting fire with fire.
Of course this will be music to the ears of his supporters who love that Trump fights. But what does he fight for? And why must he fight a pregnant Gold Star widow?
A good man chooses his battles wisely. President Trump doesn't know when to stop fighting.
The best thing President Trump could have done was to say nothing. In a couple of days it would be forgotten. But that isn't in his nature. He must always get in the last word. Our President can neither lay down his sword nor put down his phone.
Sunday, October 22, 2017
Mets Reportedly Name Indians Pitching Coach Mickey Callaway Their New Manager
In a surprising move, the New York Mets have hired Cleveland Indians pitching coach Mickey Callaway to be their new manager succeeding Terry Collins who resigned at the end of the season after seven years at the helm of the team. Callaway, 42, has apparently agreed to a three year deal with the club.
Callaway had been the Tribe's pitching coach since 2013 and had been with the organization since 2010 follow his retirement as a player. He spent parts of five seasons pitching with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Anaheim Angels and the Texas Rangers before pitching in South Korea and in China.
Mets hitting coach Kevin Long had been favored to succeed Collins. Now it is unclear if he will remain with the organization. The jury is very much out on Callaway at this point. Despite his success in turning Corey Kluber into a Cy Young winner it remains to be seen if the Mets pitching staff of Jacob de Grom, Noah Syndergaard, Steven Matz and Matt Harvey will accept Callaway much less the rest of the team.
Callaway can go a long way with the team and its fans if he fixes Harvey who posted a 6.70 ERA in 2017 and is 9-17 since the Mets won the NL pennant in 2015. But this is a very big if.
Then again the NL East is a very big if right now. Both the first place Washington Nationals and the last place Philadelphia Phillies are also looking for new managers. The Phillies sent Pete Mackanin upstairs while the Nats waited for Dusty Baker to go back to California so they could call and tell him his contract wasn't being renewed over the phone. At least Collins got to resign of his own accord to accept another position within the organization. It remains to be seen if Callaway will leave the Mets on the same terms.
Callaway had been the Tribe's pitching coach since 2013 and had been with the organization since 2010 follow his retirement as a player. He spent parts of five seasons pitching with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Anaheim Angels and the Texas Rangers before pitching in South Korea and in China.
Mets hitting coach Kevin Long had been favored to succeed Collins. Now it is unclear if he will remain with the organization. The jury is very much out on Callaway at this point. Despite his success in turning Corey Kluber into a Cy Young winner it remains to be seen if the Mets pitching staff of Jacob de Grom, Noah Syndergaard, Steven Matz and Matt Harvey will accept Callaway much less the rest of the team.
Callaway can go a long way with the team and its fans if he fixes Harvey who posted a 6.70 ERA in 2017 and is 9-17 since the Mets won the NL pennant in 2015. But this is a very big if.
Then again the NL East is a very big if right now. Both the first place Washington Nationals and the last place Philadelphia Phillies are also looking for new managers. The Phillies sent Pete Mackanin upstairs while the Nats waited for Dusty Baker to go back to California so they could call and tell him his contract wasn't being renewed over the phone. At least Collins got to resign of his own accord to accept another position within the organization. It remains to be seen if Callaway will leave the Mets on the same terms.
How Long Will It Take For Red Sox Nation To Run Alex Cora Out of Town?
The Boston Red Sox officially named Houston Astros bench coach Alex Cora as their new manager today succeeding the recently disposed John Farrell. Cora has a signed a three year contract with a club option for 2021.
News broke last week about Cora being named manager, but could not make the news official until after the ALCS which concluded last night.
The news is generally being received positively. Cora is no stranger to Boston having played for the Sox for three and a half seasons from 2005 to 2008 as a utility infielder collecting a World Series ring in 2007.
Although Cora, 42, has been considered managerial material since his playing days since retiring as a player after the 2011 season, Cora has mostly been an analyst for ESPN and served as the GM for the Puerto Rican national baseball team. It was until this season that he put on a baseball uniform again when he joined the Astros coaching staff.
I don't object to the Sox hiring Cora. I just wonder how long it will be before Red Sox Nation gives him the Farrell treatment. Will it happen if they get swept by the Yankees in their first meeting next season? Will it happen if they have a September collapse? Or will it happen if they win the AL East for a third straight year and fail to advance beyond the ALDS? Of course, Cora could lead the Sox to a World Series title out of the gate just like Farrell did (or for that matter Terry Francona before him). But that World Series title didn't buy Farrell much goodwill. Why wouldn't a similar fate befall Cora?
Again, I have nothing against the Sox hiring Cora. But regardless of who the team chose, I think Red Sox Nation is in for a rude awakening in 2018. Sometimes things aren't as simple as changing the manager.
News broke last week about Cora being named manager, but could not make the news official until after the ALCS which concluded last night.
The news is generally being received positively. Cora is no stranger to Boston having played for the Sox for three and a half seasons from 2005 to 2008 as a utility infielder collecting a World Series ring in 2007.
Although Cora, 42, has been considered managerial material since his playing days since retiring as a player after the 2011 season, Cora has mostly been an analyst for ESPN and served as the GM for the Puerto Rican national baseball team. It was until this season that he put on a baseball uniform again when he joined the Astros coaching staff.
I don't object to the Sox hiring Cora. I just wonder how long it will be before Red Sox Nation gives him the Farrell treatment. Will it happen if they get swept by the Yankees in their first meeting next season? Will it happen if they have a September collapse? Or will it happen if they win the AL East for a third straight year and fail to advance beyond the ALDS? Of course, Cora could lead the Sox to a World Series title out of the gate just like Farrell did (or for that matter Terry Francona before him). But that World Series title didn't buy Farrell much goodwill. Why wouldn't a similar fate befall Cora?
Again, I have nothing against the Sox hiring Cora. But regardless of who the team chose, I think Red Sox Nation is in for a rude awakening in 2018. Sometimes things aren't as simple as changing the manager.
Saturday, October 21, 2017
Houston Astros Win 1st AL Pennant; 1st Team in MLB History to Represent Both Leagues in World Series
The Houston Astros defeated the New York Yankees 4-0 in Game 7 of the ALCS to win their first AL pennant.
The Astros are also the first team in MLB history to have represented both the AL and NL in the World Series. Houston went to the World Series in 2005, but were swept by the Chicago White Sox.
There was no sweep in this series. After getting off to a 2-0 lead, the Astros lost three straight games in the Bronx and returned to Houston facing elimination. After winning Game 6 with 7 strong scoreless innings from Justin Verlander and 7 runs, it came down to tonight.
The Yankees had future Hall of Famer C.C. Sabathia against journeyman Charlie Morton for the Astros. On paper it looked like a mismatch. But Morton rose to the occasion pitching five scoreless innings while Sabathia got knocked out in the fourth inning after surrendering a home run to Astros DH Evan Gattis.
The Astros would add three runs in the fifth inning off Yankees reliever Tommy Kahnle via a solo home run by Jose Altuve and a two run double by ex-Yankees catcher Brian McCann.
Lance McCullers, Jr. came on in the sixth and pitched even more brilliantly striking out six batters over four innings with a little help from center fielder George Springer who leaped over left fielder Marwin Gonzalez to rob Yankees first baseman Greg Bird of a hit.
Bird would also make the final out flying out in a far more routine manner to Springer. But that out would be anything but routine as the Astros jumped for joy.
Astros pitcher Justin Verlander was bestowed with the ALCS MVP. In 16 innings pitched, Verlander gave up only one run and won two of their four games.
If Dallas Keuchel hadn't pushed Astros management to get Verlander there's a very good chance they don't get past the Yankees much less make their organizational goal set many years ago to win the World Series in 2017.
Speaking of the Yankees, I hope the team isn't foolish enough to impersonate the Washington Nationals and not renew manager Joe Girardi's contract. Few people (other than myself) expected the Yankees to get to this level in 2017. Getting rid of Girardi would send the young Yankees team the wrong message.
The Astros will travel to Los Angeles to begin the 2017 World Series against the Dodgers on Tuesday night. The Dodgers will be favored to win, but the country will be rooting for a city that needs all the good news that it can get after a summer of discontent.
Friday, October 20, 2017
Tigers Give Ex-Twins Manager Ron Gardenhire a Three Year Deal
The Detroit Tigers have named former Minnesota Twins manager Ron Gardenhire their new skipper signing him to a three year deal today.
Gardenhire managed the Twins from 2002 to 2014 leading the club to 6 AL Central titles. However, the team never got past the NLDS. Well, at least he didn't manage in Boston or Washington.
In 2017, Gardenhire was the bench coach for Torey Lovullo in his inaugural season as manager for the Arizona Diamondbacks who won the NL Wild Card before falling to the eventual NL champion Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLDS.
The Tigers are in full rebuild mode having traded off the likes of Justin Verlander, Justin Upton and J.D. Martinez losing 98 games for the worst record in the AL. Gardenhire worked effectively with young players with the Twins and should have the Tigers roaring again by the end of the decade, perhaps sooner.
Gardenhire managed the Twins from 2002 to 2014 leading the club to 6 AL Central titles. However, the team never got past the NLDS. Well, at least he didn't manage in Boston or Washington.
In 2017, Gardenhire was the bench coach for Torey Lovullo in his inaugural season as manager for the Arizona Diamondbacks who won the NL Wild Card before falling to the eventual NL champion Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLDS.
The Tigers are in full rebuild mode having traded off the likes of Justin Verlander, Justin Upton and J.D. Martinez losing 98 games for the worst record in the AL. Gardenhire worked effectively with young players with the Twins and should have the Tigers roaring again by the end of the decade, perhaps sooner.
The Washington Nationals Will Regret Letting Dusty Baker Go Just Like The Cincinnati Reds
The Washington Nationals have opted not to renew the contract of manager Dusty Baker despite leading them to back to back NL East titles in his two seasons at their helm.
Unfortunately for Baker, the Nats were eliminated in both NLDS contests. A year ago they were eliminated by the Dodgers and this year were eliminated by the Cubs in an evenly matched five game series.
Perhaps Baker can go on a fishing trip with John Farrell who was dismissed by the Boston Red Sox despite winning back to back AL East titles (not to mention a World Series title) but made the mistake of being eliminated in the ALDS by the Cleveland Indians and Houston Astros, respectively.
Clearly, Nationals GM Mike Rizzo hasn't considered the fate of the team that last fired Baker - the Cincinnati Reds. After not reaching the post-season since 1995, Baker led the club to NL Central titles in 2010 and 2012 as well as a NL Wild Card berth in 2013. However, the Reds failed to advance to the NLCS in '10 & '12 and lost to the Pirates in the NL Wild Card Game in '13. So the Reds fired him.
In four seasons under Bryan Price, the Reds haven't had a winning record and three consecutive last place finishes. Sometimes you don't know what you've got until it's gone.
The Washington Nationals are going to regret letting Baker go and will be in for a rude awakening in 2018.
Unfortunately for Baker, the Nats were eliminated in both NLDS contests. A year ago they were eliminated by the Dodgers and this year were eliminated by the Cubs in an evenly matched five game series.
Perhaps Baker can go on a fishing trip with John Farrell who was dismissed by the Boston Red Sox despite winning back to back AL East titles (not to mention a World Series title) but made the mistake of being eliminated in the ALDS by the Cleveland Indians and Houston Astros, respectively.
Clearly, Nationals GM Mike Rizzo hasn't considered the fate of the team that last fired Baker - the Cincinnati Reds. After not reaching the post-season since 1995, Baker led the club to NL Central titles in 2010 and 2012 as well as a NL Wild Card berth in 2013. However, the Reds failed to advance to the NLCS in '10 & '12 and lost to the Pirates in the NL Wild Card Game in '13. So the Reds fired him.
In four seasons under Bryan Price, the Reds haven't had a winning record and three consecutive last place finishes. Sometimes you don't know what you've got until it's gone.
The Washington Nationals are going to regret letting Baker go and will be in for a rude awakening in 2018.
Thursday, October 19, 2017
In Defending Trump's Conduct Towards Fallen Soldier's Family, Kelly Proved Trump a Liar While Disgracing Himself
Consider this portion of White House Chief of Staff John Kelly's defense of President Trump's call to the family of Sgt. La David Johnson:
That's what the President tried to say to four families the other day. I was stunned when I came to work yesterday morning, and broken-hearted at what I saw a member of Congress doing. A member of Congress who listened in on a phone call from the President of the United States to a young wife, and in his way tried to express that opinion -- that he's a brave man, a fallen hero, he knew what he was getting himself into because he enlisted. There's no reason to enlist; he enlisted. And he was where he wanted to be, exactly where he wanted to be, with exactly the people he wanted to be with when his life was taken.
That was the message. That was the message that was transmitted.
It stuns me that a member of Congress would have listened in on that conversation. Absolutely stuns me. And I thought at least that was sacred. You know, when I was a kid growing up, a lot of things were sacred in our country. Women were sacred, looked upon with great honor. That's obviously not the case anymore as we see from recent cases. Life -- the dignity of life -- is sacred. That's gone. Religion, that seems to be gone as well.
That's what the President tried to say to four families the other day. I was stunned when I came to work yesterday morning, and broken-hearted at what I saw a member of Congress doing. A member of Congress who listened in on a phone call from the President of the United States to a young wife, and in his way tried to express that opinion -- that he's a brave man, a fallen hero, he knew what he was getting himself into because he enlisted. There's no reason to enlist; he enlisted. And he was where he wanted to be, exactly where he wanted to be, with exactly the people he wanted to be with when his life was taken.
That was the message. That was the message that was transmitted.
It stuns me that a member of Congress would have listened in on that conversation. Absolutely stuns me. And I thought at least that was sacred. You know, when I was a kid growing up, a lot of things were sacred in our country. Women were sacred, looked upon with great honor. That's obviously not the case anymore as we see from recent cases. Life -- the dignity of life -- is sacred. That's gone. Religion, that seems to be gone as well.
Frankly, Kelly's comments are more profane than sacred.
Let us remember that President Trump specifically denied Congresswoman Frederica Wilson's account of Trump's remarks to Sgt. Johnson's family going so far as to say she "fabricated" what had transpired and that he had evidence to the contrary.
At no point does Kelly deny Wilson's account. He is instead reduced to chiding Wilson for listening in to Trump's call as if she were eavesdropping. The phone conversation was conducted over a speaker phone inside a car and clearly Wilson was present at the request of Sgt. Johnson's family. Not only does Kelly substantiate Wilson's account he proves Trump to be a liar yet again.
But Kelly has to shoot the messenger and in directing his attack on Wilson, Kelly denies the anger of Sgt. Johnson's family at President Trump's conduct towards them. This is what matters above all else. If Kelly were a stand up guy he would wash his hands of President Trump this instant and walk away with whatever shred of dignity he has left.
It is a shame because General Kelly has served this country with distinction - until now.
Enrique Hernandez's 3 HRs Bring Dodgers 1st NL Pennant Since 1988
The Los Angeles Dodgers are going to the World Series for the first time since 1988. They defeated the Chicago Cubs 11-1 in Game 5 of the NLCS to avenge their NLCS in Wrigley a year ago. Dodgers left fielder Enrique "Kike" Hernandez hit 3 HR with 7 RBI in a career defining performance providing a small lift to the people of Puerto Rico.
Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw pitched six strong innings giving up only one run via a solo HR by Kris Bryant on three hits.
The Cubs were simply overmatched. Even with the Cubs victory in Game 4 they had to scratch and cling for every out. The win last night only seemed to delay the inevitable.
Despite Hernandez's monster night, it was third baseman Justin Turner and center fielder/shortstop Chris Taylor who were the co-winners of the NLCS MVP. Turner drove in seven runs in the NLCS including a walk off home run in Game 2 while Turner hit 2 HR and drove in 5 runs.
Truth be told the Dodgers are incredibly well balanced. There was a bit of uncertainty at the outset of the NLCS when Corey Seager would be unable to play due to a back injury. But Taylor along with Charlie Culberson, who spent most of the season in Triple-AAA, filled in seamlessly. Indeed, Culberson had three hits tonight and would catch the final out of the NLCS on a line drive by Cubs catcher Wilson Contreras.
The Dodgers will host Game 1 of the World Series on Tuesday night against either the Houston Astros or the New York Yankees. The Yankees currently have a 3-2 lead in the ALCS and could earn their first AL pennant since 2009 tomorrow night in Houston. Should this come to pass it will mark the first time the Yankees and Dodgers will face off in the World Series since 1981. The two teams have faced each other in the Fall Classic a record 11 times.
However, the Astros could force a deciding Game 7 on Saturday night. Should the Astros comeback they will earn their first AL pennant and become the first team to represent both leagues in the World Series. Of course, the Astros won the NL pennant in 2005.
Regardless of who wins the ALCS, the Dodgers have to be favored to prevail and win their first World Series in 29 years.
Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw pitched six strong innings giving up only one run via a solo HR by Kris Bryant on three hits.
The Cubs were simply overmatched. Even with the Cubs victory in Game 4 they had to scratch and cling for every out. The win last night only seemed to delay the inevitable.
Despite Hernandez's monster night, it was third baseman Justin Turner and center fielder/shortstop Chris Taylor who were the co-winners of the NLCS MVP. Turner drove in seven runs in the NLCS including a walk off home run in Game 2 while Turner hit 2 HR and drove in 5 runs.
Truth be told the Dodgers are incredibly well balanced. There was a bit of uncertainty at the outset of the NLCS when Corey Seager would be unable to play due to a back injury. But Taylor along with Charlie Culberson, who spent most of the season in Triple-AAA, filled in seamlessly. Indeed, Culberson had three hits tonight and would catch the final out of the NLCS on a line drive by Cubs catcher Wilson Contreras.
The Dodgers will host Game 1 of the World Series on Tuesday night against either the Houston Astros or the New York Yankees. The Yankees currently have a 3-2 lead in the ALCS and could earn their first AL pennant since 2009 tomorrow night in Houston. Should this come to pass it will mark the first time the Yankees and Dodgers will face off in the World Series since 1981. The two teams have faced each other in the Fall Classic a record 11 times.
However, the Astros could force a deciding Game 7 on Saturday night. Should the Astros comeback they will earn their first AL pennant and become the first team to represent both leagues in the World Series. Of course, the Astros won the NL pennant in 2005.
Regardless of who wins the ALCS, the Dodgers have to be favored to prevail and win their first World Series in 29 years.
Wednesday, October 18, 2017
Chances Are President Trump Disrespected Sgt. La David Johnson's Pregnant Widow & Mother
President Trump can say all he wants that he did not disrespect the pregnant widow and mother of Sgt. La David Johnson who was killed along with three other U.S. soldiers in Niger earlier this month. Johnson's widow and mother along with Florida Congresswoman Frederica Wilson say that Trump told them that Johnson "knew what he signed up for."
President Trump can also say all he wants that Florida Congresswoman Frederica Wilson is fabricating this conversation and that he has proof. If he has this proof let him present it and clear up this matter once and for all.
President Trump can huff and puff all he wants. I do not believe him. I don't think he has any more proof here than he did with former FBI Director James Comey. For its part, the White House denies there's a recording of the phone call between Trump and the Johnson family.
Let us remember that Trump is a man who said John McCain wasn't a war hero because he was captured.
Let us remember that Trump is a man who denigrated the mother of a fallen soldier after her husband spoke out against him at the DNC.
Let us remember that Trump is a man who told Puerto Ricans who lost their homes in Hurricane Maria didn't suffer as badly as those affected by Hurricane Katrina.
Is it really a stretch of the imagination that Trump would tell a war widow and her mother that their loved one knew what he signed up for?
It is not. For these reasons, I do not give President Trump the benefit of the doubt. If Trump can present information which substantiates his claim then I will be happy to acknowledge it. But I don't think this will be any more forthcoming than his tax returns.
President Trump can also say all he wants that Florida Congresswoman Frederica Wilson is fabricating this conversation and that he has proof. If he has this proof let him present it and clear up this matter once and for all.
President Trump can huff and puff all he wants. I do not believe him. I don't think he has any more proof here than he did with former FBI Director James Comey. For its part, the White House denies there's a recording of the phone call between Trump and the Johnson family.
Let us remember that Trump is a man who said John McCain wasn't a war hero because he was captured.
Let us remember that Trump is a man who denigrated the mother of a fallen soldier after her husband spoke out against him at the DNC.
Let us remember that Trump is a man who told Puerto Ricans who lost their homes in Hurricane Maria didn't suffer as badly as those affected by Hurricane Katrina.
Is it really a stretch of the imagination that Trump would tell a war widow and her mother that their loved one knew what he signed up for?
It is not. For these reasons, I do not give President Trump the benefit of the doubt. If Trump can present information which substantiates his claim then I will be happy to acknowledge it. But I don't think this will be any more forthcoming than his tax returns.
Gord Downie, R.I.P.
Singer-songwriter Gord Downie, front man for the iconic Canadian band The Tragically Hip, lost his battle with cancer last night passing away at the age of 53.
Most Americans have never heard of The Tragically Hip. For whatever reason the band never resonated in this country though not for lack of trying as they appeared at Woodstock 99.
But for nearly thirty years, The Hip were a mainstay of Canadian music with Downie serving as its conscience. Such was their impact on Canada that following Downie's diagnosis of a rare brain cancer as that the CBC took the extraordinary step of broadcasting the band's final concert from their hometown of Kingston, Ontario to the entire country commercial free in August 2016. The concert was also aired in bars and in outdoor facilities from coast to coast to coast. It is estimated that more than a third of Canada's population was watching the show. As I wrote at the time, "God only knows how much longer Gord Downie has on this Earth. But how many of us get the chance to participate in our own wake much less lead the choir? In Gord Downie's case, he had a nationwide audience."
As it turned out he would live just under 14 months. In that time he would release a solo album and graphic novel called Secret Path which documented the plight of Chanie Wenjack, a 12-year old boy who died while trying to escape an Aboriginal residential school. Few non-Aboriginal people in Canada were more outspoken about the plight of Native Canadians than Downie. His final solo album Introduce Yourself will be released later this month. He certainly made the most of his time.
I must admit I wasn't a huge fan of The Hip, but one song which has long resonated with me was "Ahead By a Century". In fact, it was this song which closed The Hip's final concert last year. R.I.P.
Most Americans have never heard of The Tragically Hip. For whatever reason the band never resonated in this country though not for lack of trying as they appeared at Woodstock 99.
But for nearly thirty years, The Hip were a mainstay of Canadian music with Downie serving as its conscience. Such was their impact on Canada that following Downie's diagnosis of a rare brain cancer as that the CBC took the extraordinary step of broadcasting the band's final concert from their hometown of Kingston, Ontario to the entire country commercial free in August 2016. The concert was also aired in bars and in outdoor facilities from coast to coast to coast. It is estimated that more than a third of Canada's population was watching the show. As I wrote at the time, "God only knows how much longer Gord Downie has on this Earth. But how many of us get the chance to participate in our own wake much less lead the choir? In Gord Downie's case, he had a nationwide audience."
As it turned out he would live just under 14 months. In that time he would release a solo album and graphic novel called Secret Path which documented the plight of Chanie Wenjack, a 12-year old boy who died while trying to escape an Aboriginal residential school. Few non-Aboriginal people in Canada were more outspoken about the plight of Native Canadians than Downie. His final solo album Introduce Yourself will be released later this month. He certainly made the most of his time.
Friday, October 13, 2017
Trump Decertifying The Iran Nuclear Deal Isn't The Same as Withdrawing From It
While President Trump's decision to decertify the Iran nuclear deal is significant, it isn't the same as announcing the United States would withdraw from it altogether.
And while it is also true that Trump has said he will withdraw from the agreement if Congress and our Allies don't come up with a new deal he has not imposed any deadline.
All of this reaffirms the view I took last month when I argued that Trump was looking to renegotiate rather than abrogate the Iran nuclear deal. If Trump wanted to end the Iran nuclear deal he could have done so today or when he spoke to the UN General Assembly. The fact that he didn't do so on either occasion leads me to believe that he wants to put his own stamp on the Iran nuclear deal. After all this is the man famous of "writing" a book called The Art of The Deal.
With this said, I don't think conservatives should be so eager to celebrate Trump's decision and nor do I think liberals should mourn the loss of the Iran nuclear deal. The Iran nuclear deal is still in place as it was yesterday.
And while it is also true that Trump has said he will withdraw from the agreement if Congress and our Allies don't come up with a new deal he has not imposed any deadline.
All of this reaffirms the view I took last month when I argued that Trump was looking to renegotiate rather than abrogate the Iran nuclear deal. If Trump wanted to end the Iran nuclear deal he could have done so today or when he spoke to the UN General Assembly. The fact that he didn't do so on either occasion leads me to believe that he wants to put his own stamp on the Iran nuclear deal. After all this is the man famous of "writing" a book called The Art of The Deal.
With this said, I don't think conservatives should be so eager to celebrate Trump's decision and nor do I think liberals should mourn the loss of the Iran nuclear deal. The Iran nuclear deal is still in place as it was yesterday.
Thursday, October 12, 2017
The Strange Timing of The Trump Administration's UNESCO Withdrawal
While I don't object in principle to the Trump Administration withdrawing from UNESCO, I do find the timing more than a wee bit strange.
After all, it was only yesterday that Israel had convinced the Arab bloc from voting on UNESCO's perennial anti-Israel resolutions. The fact the Arab bloc had done this is a strong indication of their rapprochement due to Iran's nuclear program. Even if the vote was only delayed to April 2018 there was a chance for another delay. But with the Trump Administration having decided to withdraw from UNESCO this rapprochement could regress.
Of course, Israel subsequently withdrew from UNESCO as well. But it had little choice. In a way it reminds me of when President Obama took a hard line against so-called Israeli settlements. The Palestinian Authority wasn't calling for halt for settlement construction in East Jerusalem or portions of the West Bank that would have been transferred to Israel in any peace agreement. But when Obama called for just that the Palestinians pretty much had to go along with him.
Again I don't have much sympathy for UNESCO's anti-Israel views, its designation of Judaism's holiest sites as Palestinian and turning a blind eye to genocide in Syria. Nevertheless with the ongoing situation in Iran there was a window to put UNESCO's anti-Israel agenda on the back burner. If this wasn't happening on the ground I'd be in complete agreement with the Trump Administration's decision. But with the shifting relations between Israel and the Arab bloc, the timing of the Trump Administration's decision has now rendered that impossible and has made matters worse.
After all, it was only yesterday that Israel had convinced the Arab bloc from voting on UNESCO's perennial anti-Israel resolutions. The fact the Arab bloc had done this is a strong indication of their rapprochement due to Iran's nuclear program. Even if the vote was only delayed to April 2018 there was a chance for another delay. But with the Trump Administration having decided to withdraw from UNESCO this rapprochement could regress.
Of course, Israel subsequently withdrew from UNESCO as well. But it had little choice. In a way it reminds me of when President Obama took a hard line against so-called Israeli settlements. The Palestinian Authority wasn't calling for halt for settlement construction in East Jerusalem or portions of the West Bank that would have been transferred to Israel in any peace agreement. But when Obama called for just that the Palestinians pretty much had to go along with him.
Again I don't have much sympathy for UNESCO's anti-Israel views, its designation of Judaism's holiest sites as Palestinian and turning a blind eye to genocide in Syria. Nevertheless with the ongoing situation in Iran there was a window to put UNESCO's anti-Israel agenda on the back burner. If this wasn't happening on the ground I'd be in complete agreement with the Trump Administration's decision. But with the shifting relations between Israel and the Arab bloc, the timing of the Trump Administration's decision has now rendered that impossible and has made matters worse.
So When Will John Kelly Quit The Trump White House?
When I heard White House Chief of Staff John Kelly began a press conference by saying he wasn't quitting today I immediately remembered when I predicted that Kelly would last at the job for six months tops.
I made this prediction on July 31st. It's been 73 days.
Even if Kelly doesn't resign today or tomorrow I have a feeling my six month prediction may prove unduly optimistic.
I made this prediction on July 31st. It's been 73 days.
Even if Kelly doesn't resign today or tomorrow I have a feeling my six month prediction may prove unduly optimistic.
Cubs Hold Off Nats To Advance to NLCS Rematch With Dodgers
The Chicago Cubs will be going to the NLCS for the third straight year and for the second year in a row will be facing the Los Angeles Dodgers in that contest as they held on to beat the Washington Nationals 9-8 in Game 5 of the NLDS in a game which lasted nearly five hours.
This series was even with the Cubs winning Games 1 & 3 and the Nats winning Games 2 & 4. Those Cubs wins came despite Max Scherzer and Stephen Strasburg taking no-hitters into the late innings. The Nats had a comeback win in Game 2 and dominated in Game 4 on the strength of 12 strikeouts over 7 innings by Strasburg.
The Cubs took a 1-0 on a RBI ground out by Anthony Rizzo in the top of the 1st. But the Nats would have a four run second inning on a solo home run by Daniel Murphy and a three run shot by Michael A. Taylor who also hit a grand slam in Game 4. Alas the Nats peaked too soon.
The Cubs scored two runs in the 3rd on another RBI ground out (this time by Addison Russell) and Wilson Contreras scoring on a wild pitch by Nats starter Gio Gonzalez. The Nats still had a 4-3 lead.
Dusty Baker no doubt thought he would preserve that lead by bringing in Max Scherzer to pitch the fifth. Scherzer would retire both Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo in swift order. But then the wheels fell off. After giving up singles to Wilson Contreras and pinch hitter Ben Zobrist, Addison Russell drove them both in with a double to take a 5-4 lead. The Cubs would two more runs after Javier Baez struck out but the ball got away from Nats catcher Matt Wieters who made an errant throw to first. The Cubs ended the 5th with four runs and a 7-4 lead.
Russell would hit another RBI double to make it 8-4 in the sixth inning. But in the bottom of that inning, the Nats would cut into the lead when Jayson Werth scored on a wild pitch by Cubs reliever Mike Montgomery. Later in the inning Murphy would drive in a run with a double to make it 8-6. The Cubs got one back in the top of the 7th when Bryant reached on a fielder's choice but the Nats answered with a bases loaded sacrifice fly by Bryce Harper.
With the Cubs leading 9-7, Joe Maddon brought his closer Wade Davis to record the final seven outs. Davis would have a rocky 8th with Taylor driving in his fourth run of the game with a single to make it a 9-8 game. But everything changed when Cubs catcher Wilson Contreras threw the ball to first when Nats catcher Jose Lobaton was leaning a little too far off first. The umps ruled him safe, but Maddon wanted a replay. The call was reversed and the rally and inning were over.
Davis would retire the final three hitters in order including Bryce Harper on a strike out to end the game.
This is a very bitter pill for the Washington Nationals to swallow. Four times since 2012 the Nats have won the NL East and now four times they have failed to win the NLDS against four different opponents. The Cardinals came back down 6-0 to beat them in Game 5 of the NLDS in 2012, fell to the San Francisco Giants in 2014 and then the Dodgers last year and now the Cubs.
Despite winning NL East titles in both seasons in D.C., Dusty Baker is without a contract for 2018 and no doubt his chances of returning are about as likely as Donald Trump giving up Twitter.
The Cubs will have their hands full with the Dodgers who are eager to avenge their loss in Wrigley Field a year ago. It marks the first time there has been a rematch in the NLCS since the St. Louis Cardinals and Houston Astros met in the NLCS in 2004 and 2005. The NLCS will commence Saturday in Los Angeles.
This series was even with the Cubs winning Games 1 & 3 and the Nats winning Games 2 & 4. Those Cubs wins came despite Max Scherzer and Stephen Strasburg taking no-hitters into the late innings. The Nats had a comeback win in Game 2 and dominated in Game 4 on the strength of 12 strikeouts over 7 innings by Strasburg.
The Cubs took a 1-0 on a RBI ground out by Anthony Rizzo in the top of the 1st. But the Nats would have a four run second inning on a solo home run by Daniel Murphy and a three run shot by Michael A. Taylor who also hit a grand slam in Game 4. Alas the Nats peaked too soon.
The Cubs scored two runs in the 3rd on another RBI ground out (this time by Addison Russell) and Wilson Contreras scoring on a wild pitch by Nats starter Gio Gonzalez. The Nats still had a 4-3 lead.
Dusty Baker no doubt thought he would preserve that lead by bringing in Max Scherzer to pitch the fifth. Scherzer would retire both Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo in swift order. But then the wheels fell off. After giving up singles to Wilson Contreras and pinch hitter Ben Zobrist, Addison Russell drove them both in with a double to take a 5-4 lead. The Cubs would two more runs after Javier Baez struck out but the ball got away from Nats catcher Matt Wieters who made an errant throw to first. The Cubs ended the 5th with four runs and a 7-4 lead.
Russell would hit another RBI double to make it 8-4 in the sixth inning. But in the bottom of that inning, the Nats would cut into the lead when Jayson Werth scored on a wild pitch by Cubs reliever Mike Montgomery. Later in the inning Murphy would drive in a run with a double to make it 8-6. The Cubs got one back in the top of the 7th when Bryant reached on a fielder's choice but the Nats answered with a bases loaded sacrifice fly by Bryce Harper.
With the Cubs leading 9-7, Joe Maddon brought his closer Wade Davis to record the final seven outs. Davis would have a rocky 8th with Taylor driving in his fourth run of the game with a single to make it a 9-8 game. But everything changed when Cubs catcher Wilson Contreras threw the ball to first when Nats catcher Jose Lobaton was leaning a little too far off first. The umps ruled him safe, but Maddon wanted a replay. The call was reversed and the rally and inning were over.
Davis would retire the final three hitters in order including Bryce Harper on a strike out to end the game.
This is a very bitter pill for the Washington Nationals to swallow. Four times since 2012 the Nats have won the NL East and now four times they have failed to win the NLDS against four different opponents. The Cardinals came back down 6-0 to beat them in Game 5 of the NLDS in 2012, fell to the San Francisco Giants in 2014 and then the Dodgers last year and now the Cubs.
Despite winning NL East titles in both seasons in D.C., Dusty Baker is without a contract for 2018 and no doubt his chances of returning are about as likely as Donald Trump giving up Twitter.
The Cubs will have their hands full with the Dodgers who are eager to avenge their loss in Wrigley Field a year ago. It marks the first time there has been a rematch in the NLCS since the St. Louis Cardinals and Houston Astros met in the NLCS in 2004 and 2005. The NLCS will commence Saturday in Los Angeles.
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
Indians' Fans Have Their Hearts Broken Again This Time By The Yankees
For the fifth time in the past 20 years, Cleveland Indians' fans are heartbroken.
In 1997, the Indians lost Game 7 of the World Series in extra innings to the Florida Marlins thanks to an extra inning single by Edgar Renteria.
In 1999, the Indians blew a 2-0 lead in the ALDS to the Boston Red Sox thanks to Pedro Martinez's six innings of no-hit ball and a grand slam home run by Troy O'Leary.
In 2007, the Indians blew a 3-1 lead in the ALCS again to the Boston Red Sox with Manny Being Manny.
Last year, in 2016, the Indians blew a 3-1 lead in the World Series as the Chicago Cubs came back to win after a rain delay in extra innings to win their first World Series in 108 years.
And now in 2017, the Indians blew a 2-0 lead in the ALDS against the New York Yankees who beat them tonight in Game 5 of the ALDS 5-2.
The Cleveland Indians have not won a World Series since 1948 and they will have to wait yet another year.
The Indians pretty much lost this game in the first inning when Corey Kluber gave up a solo home run to Didi Gregorius. Didi would hit another HR this time a two run shot off Kluber in the third to give the Yankees a 3-0 lead. Kluber was gone in the fourth having had two ineffective outings against the Yankees in the post-season. Aside from Trevor Bauer's six plus inning effort in Game 1, the Indians starting rotation was ineffective.
The Indians did have a glimmer of hope in the fifth inning when they scored two runs on back to back singles by Roberto Perez and Giovanny Urshela to bring it within one forcing C.C. Sabathia out of the game. But David Robertson and Aroldis Chapman shut them down the rest of the way.
The straw that broke the camel's back was the 9 pitches Indians closer Cody Allen threw to Todd Frazier and the 12 pitches he threw to Bret Gardner (his second 12 pitch at bat of the game). On Allen's 12th pitch, Gardner singled in a run with Frazier scoring on a throwing error by Jay Bruce. Earlier in the inning, Austin Jackson also made an uncharacteristic error. The 5-2 lead was too much for the Indians to overcome.
The Indians peaked too soon. Their five run comeback against the Yankees in Game 2 put the spotlight on Yankees manager Joe Girardi for not challenging Lonnie Chisenhall being hit by a pitch when the replay showed his bat was hit instead. But Masahiro Tanaka and Luis Severino stepped up in Games 3 and 4, respectively while the bullpen threw 5 2/3 scoreless innings tonight.
The Yankees advance to the ALCS against the Houston Astros. Game 1 begins Friday night in Houston.
The Yankees and Astros met up in the 2015 AL Wild Card Game which Houston won. But I believe the Yankees will prevail this time fulfilling my prediction of them winning the AL pennant this year.
In 1997, the Indians lost Game 7 of the World Series in extra innings to the Florida Marlins thanks to an extra inning single by Edgar Renteria.
In 1999, the Indians blew a 2-0 lead in the ALDS to the Boston Red Sox thanks to Pedro Martinez's six innings of no-hit ball and a grand slam home run by Troy O'Leary.
In 2007, the Indians blew a 3-1 lead in the ALCS again to the Boston Red Sox with Manny Being Manny.
Last year, in 2016, the Indians blew a 3-1 lead in the World Series as the Chicago Cubs came back to win after a rain delay in extra innings to win their first World Series in 108 years.
And now in 2017, the Indians blew a 2-0 lead in the ALDS against the New York Yankees who beat them tonight in Game 5 of the ALDS 5-2.
The Cleveland Indians have not won a World Series since 1948 and they will have to wait yet another year.
The Indians pretty much lost this game in the first inning when Corey Kluber gave up a solo home run to Didi Gregorius. Didi would hit another HR this time a two run shot off Kluber in the third to give the Yankees a 3-0 lead. Kluber was gone in the fourth having had two ineffective outings against the Yankees in the post-season. Aside from Trevor Bauer's six plus inning effort in Game 1, the Indians starting rotation was ineffective.
The Indians did have a glimmer of hope in the fifth inning when they scored two runs on back to back singles by Roberto Perez and Giovanny Urshela to bring it within one forcing C.C. Sabathia out of the game. But David Robertson and Aroldis Chapman shut them down the rest of the way.
The straw that broke the camel's back was the 9 pitches Indians closer Cody Allen threw to Todd Frazier and the 12 pitches he threw to Bret Gardner (his second 12 pitch at bat of the game). On Allen's 12th pitch, Gardner singled in a run with Frazier scoring on a throwing error by Jay Bruce. Earlier in the inning, Austin Jackson also made an uncharacteristic error. The 5-2 lead was too much for the Indians to overcome.
The Indians peaked too soon. Their five run comeback against the Yankees in Game 2 put the spotlight on Yankees manager Joe Girardi for not challenging Lonnie Chisenhall being hit by a pitch when the replay showed his bat was hit instead. But Masahiro Tanaka and Luis Severino stepped up in Games 3 and 4, respectively while the bullpen threw 5 2/3 scoreless innings tonight.
The Yankees advance to the ALCS against the Houston Astros. Game 1 begins Friday night in Houston.
The Yankees and Astros met up in the 2015 AL Wild Card Game which Houston won. But I believe the Yankees will prevail this time fulfilling my prediction of them winning the AL pennant this year.
The Red Sox Will Rue The Day They Fired John Farrell
As I write this Boston Red Sox President Dave Dombrowski is refusing to go into specifics as to why he fired John Farrell as the team's manager other than to say he changed the manager and that it wasn't a snap decision.
Despite winning a World Series title in 2013 and three AL East titles including back to back titles in 2016 and 2017 and having a year remaining on his contract, Farrell was never accepted by Red Sox Nation. He was a frequent target for derision in social media and by the Boston sports media who cannot discern between a team that wins 93 games and one that loses 93 games.
Honestly, it was a miracle the Red Sox won the division given David Price was gone most of the season, third base was an uncertainty and Dustin Pedroia was plagued with injuries. Farrell adapted and overcame and very nearly did against the Houston Astros.
I think the Red Sox and its fans will soon rue the day John Farrell was fired. Farrell was a father figure to the players. There was no clubhouse dissension unlike under his predecessor Bobby Valentine in 2012.
As to Farrell's successor certain names are already being bandied about. Within the organization there's bench coach Gary DiSarcina, hitting coach Chili Davis, third base coach Bryan Butterfield and Jason Varitek, the former team captain who won World Series rings in 2004 and 2007, who is now a special assistant to Dombrowski. Also mentioned is recently dismissed Detroit Tigers Brad Ausmus who was hired by Dombrowski when he was the president of that organization in 2014. But at the moment Dombrowski is keeping those names to himself.
I wish Farrell's successor well whoever it might be, but I believe that he, the Red Sox, Red Sox Nation will be in for a rude awakening. Frankly, Farrell was fired for the sake of being fired. No doubt many Sox fans will be delighted at this turn of events. But should the Sox start 2018 with a 2-10 record they will soon call for the new manager's head. Red Sox fans don't know what they have and they won't know until long after he's gone.
Despite winning a World Series title in 2013 and three AL East titles including back to back titles in 2016 and 2017 and having a year remaining on his contract, Farrell was never accepted by Red Sox Nation. He was a frequent target for derision in social media and by the Boston sports media who cannot discern between a team that wins 93 games and one that loses 93 games.
Honestly, it was a miracle the Red Sox won the division given David Price was gone most of the season, third base was an uncertainty and Dustin Pedroia was plagued with injuries. Farrell adapted and overcame and very nearly did against the Houston Astros.
I think the Red Sox and its fans will soon rue the day John Farrell was fired. Farrell was a father figure to the players. There was no clubhouse dissension unlike under his predecessor Bobby Valentine in 2012.
As to Farrell's successor certain names are already being bandied about. Within the organization there's bench coach Gary DiSarcina, hitting coach Chili Davis, third base coach Bryan Butterfield and Jason Varitek, the former team captain who won World Series rings in 2004 and 2007, who is now a special assistant to Dombrowski. Also mentioned is recently dismissed Detroit Tigers Brad Ausmus who was hired by Dombrowski when he was the president of that organization in 2014. But at the moment Dombrowski is keeping those names to himself.
I wish Farrell's successor well whoever it might be, but I believe that he, the Red Sox, Red Sox Nation will be in for a rude awakening. Frankly, Farrell was fired for the sake of being fired. No doubt many Sox fans will be delighted at this turn of events. But should the Sox start 2018 with a 2-10 record they will soon call for the new manager's head. Red Sox fans don't know what they have and they won't know until long after he's gone.
Tuesday, October 10, 2017
Dodgers Sweep D'Backs to Advance to NLCS
Whatever problems the Los Angeles Dodgers had with the Arizona Diamondbacks in September were not evident as October as the Dodgers beat the D'Backs 3-1 last night to sweep the NLDS. Yu Darvish outpitched Zack Greinke as Cody Bellinger and Austin Barnes both homered.
The D'Backs only had the lead in the series for three innings in Game 2. Otherwise the Dodgers simply over matched and overwhelmed them. However, the D'Backs will be back.
The Dodgers will face the winner of the NLDS match up between the Washington Nationals and the Chicago Cubs. The Cubs have a 2-1 series lead and could clinch it early this evening resulting in a rematch of last year's NLCS. However, if the Nats prevail it will force a deciding Game 5 on Thursday in D.C.
The D'Backs only had the lead in the series for three innings in Game 2. Otherwise the Dodgers simply over matched and overwhelmed them. However, the D'Backs will be back.
The Dodgers will face the winner of the NLDS match up between the Washington Nationals and the Chicago Cubs. The Cubs have a 2-1 series lead and could clinch it early this evening resulting in a rematch of last year's NLCS. However, if the Nats prevail it will force a deciding Game 5 on Thursday in D.C.
Monday, October 9, 2017
I Wish I Could Find That SNL Clip of Connie Hawkins & Paul Simon Playing 1 on 1
I was saddened to hear of basketball legend Connie Hawkins' passing over the weekend at the age of 75.
The Brooklyn born was a street basketball legend in NYC and was a fixture at Rucker Park in Harlem. He went to the University of Iowa on a scholarship but was blackballed when he was unjustly and wrongly accused of partaking in a points shaving scandal. This persona non grata status barred him from playing in the NBA. He would have to be content to play in the ABF, with the Harlem Globetrotters and the upstart ABA when he was the league MVP for the Pittsburgh Pipers whom he led to the league's first title. It would not be until 1969 that Hawkins was permitted to play in the NBA when he signed with the Phoenix Suns. While with the Suns he was named to four NBA All-Star teams. Knee injuries would diminish his effectiveness and would not be the same player during stints with the L.A. Lakers and Atlanta Hawks. Despite playing only 7 seasons in the NBA, Hawkins was inducted into the Pro Basketball Hall of Fame in 1992.
But what I remember the most about Hawkins was that on the second episode of Saturday Night Live, he played one on one with Paul Simon. Yes, the 5,3 Paul Simon and with "Me & Julio Down By The Schoolyard" playing in the background complete with a pre-game interview with Marv Albert. I wish SNL was so stingy about its video content because I would love to share that video. It was funny yet full of warmth and humanity. It is also a reminder of what a trailblazer The Hawk was on the basketball court. LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant and too many numerous others to mention owe a tremendous debt to Hawkins for broadening basketball's popularity.
Well, absent this video I'll have to be content to leave you with "Me & Julio Down By The Schoolyard". R.I.P.
The Brooklyn born was a street basketball legend in NYC and was a fixture at Rucker Park in Harlem. He went to the University of Iowa on a scholarship but was blackballed when he was unjustly and wrongly accused of partaking in a points shaving scandal. This persona non grata status barred him from playing in the NBA. He would have to be content to play in the ABF, with the Harlem Globetrotters and the upstart ABA when he was the league MVP for the Pittsburgh Pipers whom he led to the league's first title. It would not be until 1969 that Hawkins was permitted to play in the NBA when he signed with the Phoenix Suns. While with the Suns he was named to four NBA All-Star teams. Knee injuries would diminish his effectiveness and would not be the same player during stints with the L.A. Lakers and Atlanta Hawks. Despite playing only 7 seasons in the NBA, Hawkins was inducted into the Pro Basketball Hall of Fame in 1992.
But what I remember the most about Hawkins was that on the second episode of Saturday Night Live, he played one on one with Paul Simon. Yes, the 5,3 Paul Simon and with "Me & Julio Down By The Schoolyard" playing in the background complete with a pre-game interview with Marv Albert. I wish SNL was so stingy about its video content because I would love to share that video. It was funny yet full of warmth and humanity. It is also a reminder of what a trailblazer The Hawk was on the basketball court. LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant and too many numerous others to mention owe a tremendous debt to Hawkins for broadening basketball's popularity.
Well, absent this video I'll have to be content to leave you with "Me & Julio Down By The Schoolyard". R.I.P.
Astros Advance to ALCS; Red Sox Lose ALDS For Second Straight Year
I picked the Houston Astros to best the Boston Red Sox in the ALDS in four games, but I didn't think it would play out like it did.
The Red Sox were utterly listless in the first two games falling to the Astros in Houston by a score of 8-2 in both games. Astros second baseman Jose Altuve looked unstoppable after his 3 home run effort in Game 1. A bad omen had been set when Red Sox DH Eduardo Nunez blew out his knee on the second pitch of the game.
It looked like the same pattern would follow in Game 3 as Red Sox starter Doug Fister allowed three runs in the 1st inning on a 3-run HR by Carlos Correa. It would have been 6-0 if Mookie Betts hadn't robbed Josh Reddick of a home run in the third inning. The Sox scored a run in the bottom of that inning and took a lead in the fourth on a Rafael Devers 3-run home run. The Sox exploded for six runs in the 7th inning highlighted by a Jackie Bradley, Jr. 3-run home run which Reddick's glove bounced into the stands behind the Pesky Pole. There was Hanley Ramirez's 4 for 4 effort after holding a "Believe in Boston" banner before the game. But above all else it was David Price's four scoreless innings out of the bullpen which served as a form of penance for his altercation with Red Sox legend and Hall of Famer Dennis Eckersley earlier in the season. The Sox' 10-3 victory brightened an otherwise dreary day in Boston.
The dreary weather continued at Fenway Park today and wasn't helped when the Astros took a 1-0 lead off Rick Porcello. But Xander Bogaerts broke an 0 for 14 slump with a game tying home run in the bottom of the 1st. The Astros answered with a George Springer single in the second to take a 2-1 lead. Porcello labored through 3 innings before Chris Sale was brought in. He was eager to make up for the 7 runs he surrendered in Game 1. He would begin by getting the Red Sox's first three up, three down inning since Price in the 5th inning of Game 2.
Astros starter Charlie Morton was serviceable into the fifth inning. But Astros manager A.J. Hinch played a hunch and brought in Justin Verlander for his first ever MLB relief appearance. It backfired. Andrew Benintendi greeted him with a go ahead 2-run HR and the Fenway faithful greeted him with mock "Justin!!!" "Justin!!!" chants.
Sale held the Sox's 3-2 for four innings. But his fifth inning of work was another story. Astros third baseman Alex Bregman who homered off Sale in Game 1 took him deep to tie the game at 3-3. The mood turned surly when the ball girl inadvertently interfered with a ball hit by Astros' DH Evan Gattis. If anything they should have cheered her because the umps said Gattis had to go back to first base. With two outs, acting manager Gary DiSarcina lifted Sale from Red Sox closer Craig Kimbrel (manager John Farrell was ejected in the second inning to protect Dustin Pedroia from being ejected after he was called out on strikes). Unfortunately, Kimbrel didn't have his stuff. He walked Springer and Reddick, after being robbed of a home run and giving the Red Sox a home run. got the go ahead hit and the Astros took a 4-3 lead. Kimbrel would also give up an insurance run to the Astros in the 9th when 40-year old Carlos Beltran hit a wall ball double. Addison Reed was brought in to get the final out of the 9th.
When the Sox came up in the 9th, they hadn't had a hit since Benintendi's HR in the 5th. Devers would rectify this with an inside the park HR. But Beltran's double would loom large. Instead of tying the game, the Sox were still down 5-4. Astros closer Ken Giles regrouped and retired Christian Vazquez, Jackie Bradley, Jr, and after 9 pitches, Pedroia to end the Red Sox' season. Astros win 5-4 and advance to the ALCS which will commence either in Cleveland against the Indians or back in Houston against the New York Yankees. The Indians have a 2-1 lead over the Yankees in their ALDS. The Tribe could clinch this evening or the Yankees could force a Game 5 back in Cleveland on Wednesday.
So where do the Red Sox go from here? The Fenway faithless have been calling for manager John Farrell's head. Frankly, they don't appreciate what they have. They don't see the Sox as a team that has won back to back AL East titles, but as a team that has lost two straight ALDS match ups. Boston wants nothing less than a World Series and being limited to winning the AL East isn't good enough. What the Red Sox need isn't a new manager but a power hitter. Simply put another David Ortiz. Easier said than done.
As for the Astros, should they prevail in the ALCS they will become the first team in MLB history to represent both leagues in the World Series. The Astros won the NL pennant in 2005, but were swept by the Chicago White Sox in the Fall Classic. If nothing else, the Astros are a welcome diversion for a city devastated by Hurricane Harvey.
The Red Sox were utterly listless in the first two games falling to the Astros in Houston by a score of 8-2 in both games. Astros second baseman Jose Altuve looked unstoppable after his 3 home run effort in Game 1. A bad omen had been set when Red Sox DH Eduardo Nunez blew out his knee on the second pitch of the game.
It looked like the same pattern would follow in Game 3 as Red Sox starter Doug Fister allowed three runs in the 1st inning on a 3-run HR by Carlos Correa. It would have been 6-0 if Mookie Betts hadn't robbed Josh Reddick of a home run in the third inning. The Sox scored a run in the bottom of that inning and took a lead in the fourth on a Rafael Devers 3-run home run. The Sox exploded for six runs in the 7th inning highlighted by a Jackie Bradley, Jr. 3-run home run which Reddick's glove bounced into the stands behind the Pesky Pole. There was Hanley Ramirez's 4 for 4 effort after holding a "Believe in Boston" banner before the game. But above all else it was David Price's four scoreless innings out of the bullpen which served as a form of penance for his altercation with Red Sox legend and Hall of Famer Dennis Eckersley earlier in the season. The Sox' 10-3 victory brightened an otherwise dreary day in Boston.
The dreary weather continued at Fenway Park today and wasn't helped when the Astros took a 1-0 lead off Rick Porcello. But Xander Bogaerts broke an 0 for 14 slump with a game tying home run in the bottom of the 1st. The Astros answered with a George Springer single in the second to take a 2-1 lead. Porcello labored through 3 innings before Chris Sale was brought in. He was eager to make up for the 7 runs he surrendered in Game 1. He would begin by getting the Red Sox's first three up, three down inning since Price in the 5th inning of Game 2.
Astros starter Charlie Morton was serviceable into the fifth inning. But Astros manager A.J. Hinch played a hunch and brought in Justin Verlander for his first ever MLB relief appearance. It backfired. Andrew Benintendi greeted him with a go ahead 2-run HR and the Fenway faithful greeted him with mock "Justin!!!" "Justin!!!" chants.
Sale held the Sox's 3-2 for four innings. But his fifth inning of work was another story. Astros third baseman Alex Bregman who homered off Sale in Game 1 took him deep to tie the game at 3-3. The mood turned surly when the ball girl inadvertently interfered with a ball hit by Astros' DH Evan Gattis. If anything they should have cheered her because the umps said Gattis had to go back to first base. With two outs, acting manager Gary DiSarcina lifted Sale from Red Sox closer Craig Kimbrel (manager John Farrell was ejected in the second inning to protect Dustin Pedroia from being ejected after he was called out on strikes). Unfortunately, Kimbrel didn't have his stuff. He walked Springer and Reddick, after being robbed of a home run and giving the Red Sox a home run. got the go ahead hit and the Astros took a 4-3 lead. Kimbrel would also give up an insurance run to the Astros in the 9th when 40-year old Carlos Beltran hit a wall ball double. Addison Reed was brought in to get the final out of the 9th.
When the Sox came up in the 9th, they hadn't had a hit since Benintendi's HR in the 5th. Devers would rectify this with an inside the park HR. But Beltran's double would loom large. Instead of tying the game, the Sox were still down 5-4. Astros closer Ken Giles regrouped and retired Christian Vazquez, Jackie Bradley, Jr, and after 9 pitches, Pedroia to end the Red Sox' season. Astros win 5-4 and advance to the ALCS which will commence either in Cleveland against the Indians or back in Houston against the New York Yankees. The Indians have a 2-1 lead over the Yankees in their ALDS. The Tribe could clinch this evening or the Yankees could force a Game 5 back in Cleveland on Wednesday.
So where do the Red Sox go from here? The Fenway faithless have been calling for manager John Farrell's head. Frankly, they don't appreciate what they have. They don't see the Sox as a team that has won back to back AL East titles, but as a team that has lost two straight ALDS match ups. Boston wants nothing less than a World Series and being limited to winning the AL East isn't good enough. What the Red Sox need isn't a new manager but a power hitter. Simply put another David Ortiz. Easier said than done.
As for the Astros, should they prevail in the ALCS they will become the first team in MLB history to represent both leagues in the World Series. The Astros won the NL pennant in 2005, but were swept by the Chicago White Sox in the Fall Classic. If nothing else, the Astros are a welcome diversion for a city devastated by Hurricane Harvey.
Wednesday, October 4, 2017
Why The AL & NL Wild Card Games Should Be a Best Two Out of Three Game Format
Both Wild Card games were enjoyable exciting especially the NL Wild Card Game. But I think MLB should change the Wild Card game from a winner takes all formula to a best two games out of three format.
The main reason for this is because neither Minnesota Twins or Colorado Rockies fans got to see their team play in the post-season in person. I would hate to be a Twins or Rockies fan and not get to have a playoff game in my hometown. If I had it my way, the Wild Card team with the lower winning percentage would host the first game with the team with the higher winning percentage would host the second game and, if necessary, the third game.
In many cases, one or both of the Wild Card teams have better records than the division winners. Being confined to one game seems an injustice.
Of course, I also want to see as much baseball as I possibly can. So my reasons are selfish. But selfishness is the best motivation of any true fan of baseball.
I doubt MLB will implement this idea. But I am putting forward anyway. I've nothing to lose by trying.
The main reason for this is because neither Minnesota Twins or Colorado Rockies fans got to see their team play in the post-season in person. I would hate to be a Twins or Rockies fan and not get to have a playoff game in my hometown. If I had it my way, the Wild Card team with the lower winning percentage would host the first game with the team with the higher winning percentage would host the second game and, if necessary, the third game.
In many cases, one or both of the Wild Card teams have better records than the division winners. Being confined to one game seems an injustice.
Of course, I also want to see as much baseball as I possibly can. So my reasons are selfish. But selfishness is the best motivation of any true fan of baseball.
I doubt MLB will implement this idea. But I am putting forward anyway. I've nothing to lose by trying.
D'Backs Hit Four Triples To Hold Off Rockies In Wild NL Wild Card Game
The Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies might very well have had the wildest Wild Card game ever (although fans of the Kansas City Royals would make a case for the 2014 AL Wild Card game between the Royals and A's).
At first it looked like it would be a laugher. Rockies starter Jon Gray did his best Luis Severino impersonation giving up a three run home run to Paul Goldschmidt in the first and a triple to Ketel Marte in the second (who would hit two in the game). Gray was done after 1 1/3 innings down 4-0. Daniel Descalso hit a two run home run in the third off Scott Oberg to make it 6-0.
Zack Greinke looked like he was cruising. But in the fourth, the Rockies chased Greinke with four runs on a single by Gerardo Parra, a RBI ground out by Mark Reynolds, a double by Jonathan Lucroy and a pinch hit single by Raimel Tapia. If not for a sliding catch by D'Backs center fielder on a sinking liner by Charlie Blackmon things could have been worse. Blackmon would make it a one run game on an unexpected sacrifice bunt in the 7th.
The D'Backs needed insurance and got it from an unexpected source. Relief pitcher Archie Bradley, with two strikes on him and two outs, hit a ball into the gap off Rockies reliever Pat Neshek. Bradley ended up hitting the D'Backs' third triple of the game to give them an 8-5 lead. But the euphoria of the triple nearly did Bradley in as he gave up back to back home runs to Nolan Arenado and Trevor Story in the eighth inning to bring it back to a one run lead.
However, the D'Backs would have one more triple up their sleeve. This one came from A.J. Pollock scoring J.D. Martinez and Jake Lamb to give Arizona a 10-7 lead. A Jeff Mathis bunt single would give the D'Backs an 11-7 lead.
It was all up to D'Backs closer Fernando Rodney who was either going to be lights out or be lit up. Ian Desmond would lead off the ninth with a single and after taking second and third on defensive indifference would score on a single by Carlos Gonzalez. But by the time that happened Rodney had fanned both Blackmon and D.J. LeMahieu, the last two NL batting champions. Possible NL MVP candidate Nolan Arenado ended the Rockies' season by hitting into a fielder's choice.
The Arizona Diamondbacks now advance to the NLDS against the Los Angeles Dodgers which begins on Friday night at Chavez Ravine. While the Dodgers have the best record in MLB, the D'Backs gave them fits this season going 11-7 against them including winning their last six match ups. I favor the Dodgers to prevail, but the D'Backs will be a handful. This NLDS should go five games.
So Exactly At What Point Did Tillerson Conclude That Trump Is a Moron?
Like many people I find it absolutely fascinating that Rex Tillerson denies ever considering resigning from his post as Secretary of State, but does not deny calling President Trump a moron.
But what is more interesting to me is this question. At exactly what point did Tillerson arrive at this conclusion?
Did he hold this view before or after Trump appointed him?
If it was before then why did he accept Trump's offer of a job?
If it was after then what the hell took him so long?
Until Tillerson comes out with a book we might never know.
Of course, that book could come sooner that anybody could expect.
I would be shocked if Tillerson is still Secretary of the State at the end of this year.
But what is more interesting to me is this question. At exactly what point did Tillerson arrive at this conclusion?
Did he hold this view before or after Trump appointed him?
If it was before then why did he accept Trump's offer of a job?
If it was after then what the hell took him so long?
Until Tillerson comes out with a book we might never know.
Of course, that book could come sooner that anybody could expect.
I would be shocked if Tillerson is still Secretary of the State at the end of this year.
What If Trump Had Told The People of Las Vegas That 9/11 Was "A Real Catastrophe"?
If you look at the -- every death is a horror. But if you look at a real
catastrophe like Katrina, and you look at the tremendous hundreds and
hundreds and hundreds of people that died, and you look at what happened
here with, really, a storm that was just totally overpowering -- nobody
has ever seen anything like this. What is your death count, as of this
moment -- 17?
Let's suppose for a moment that President Trump had gone to Las Vegas and told the city in the wake of the massacre which claimed the lives of 59 people and said, "But if you look at a real massacre like 9/11..."?
The fact that more lives were lost on September 11, 2001 than during the Mandalay Bay Casino attack is utterly beside the point and of cold comfort to those who lost their only father, mother, brother, sister, son or daughter. The same principle is true where it concerns natural disasters. The fact that more lives were lost during Hurricane Katrina than during Hurricane Maria is utterly beside the point and of cold comfort to those who did lose loved ones not to mention those who lost their homes and their businesses.
It is well worth noting that neither Hurricane Harvey nor Irma matched Katrina's death toll. But at no point did Trump ever suggest either Harvey or Irma wasn't a real catastrophe. Given his harsh criticisms of Puerto Rico's financial situation and his hostile predisposition to Latinos it is not unreasonable to conclude that he is less sympathetic to the plight of Puerto Ricans than those who live in Trump supporting states like Texas and Florida. Sad.
Tuesday, October 3, 2017
Yankees Bullpen Key In Defeating Twins in AL Wild Card Game
It was an inauspicious start for the New York Yankees in the AL Wild Card Game against the Minnesota Twins, particularly for starting pitcher Luis Severino. He surrendered a lead off home run to Twins second baseman Brian Dozier. Minutes later he gave up a two run home run to Eddie Rosario. The Twins had a 3-0 lead. After surrendering a single to Eduardo Escobar and a double to Max Kepler, Yankees manager Joe Girardi came out with the hook. Severino threw 29 pitches and gave up three runs on four hits while retiring only one batter. Chad Green calmed things down by striking out Byron Buxton and Jason Castro.
With the Twins held to three runs, I told my Dad not to be surprised if Twins starter Ervin Santana gave up three runs in the bottom of the first. After all, Santana has never pitched well in Yankee Stadium with a lifetime ERA of 6.43 ERA. Ten minutes later, Yankees shortstop Didi Gregorius would hit a three run home run to tie the game at 3-3. Somehow Twins manager Paul Molitor left Santana in after he threw 42 pitches in the first inning. He would surrender a solo HR to Brett Gardner in the second to give the Yankees a 4-3 lead.
The Twins would tie the game 4-4 in the third when Buxton reached on a fielder's choice scoring Jorge Polanco. Buxton also made a spectacular catch crashing into the wall to rob Yankees catcher Gary Sanchez of a double. But Buxton would later leave the game with back stiffness.
The Yankees regained the lead in the third on a Greg Bird single to make the game 5-4. Aaron Judge blasted a two run home run which just cleared the left field wall to give the Yankees a 7-4 lead. Former Twin Aaron Hicks drove in a run on a bases loaded walk in the seventh to double the lead 8-4.
But the stars of the game was the Yankees bullpen. Chad Green, David Robertson, Tommy Kahnle and Aroldis Chapman pitched 8 2/3 innings giving up only one run on five hits with 13 strikeouts and only 3 walks. Chapman closed out the ninth striking out the side save for a single by longtime Twin Joe Mauer.
Seeing Mauer was a reminder as to why I thought the Twins stood no chance. The Yankees own the Twins defeating them in the ALDS in 2003, 2004, 2009 and 2010. As it turned out tonight was no different. But the Twins have nothing for which to be ashamed. They increased their win total by 26 games and went from a team that lost 103 games to earning a AL Wild Card berth. If it's any consolation Paul Molitor will very likely be named AL Manager of the Year. But the Twins would rather buy a ticket to Cleveland.
The Yankees will face the defending AL champions in the ALDS starting on Thursday night. The Indians are favored to win, but I think the Yankees will prevail in five games.
The NL Wild Card game takes place tomorrow night when the Arizona Diamondbacks host the Colorado Rockies. The winner will travel to L.A. to face the Dodgers in the NLDS on Friday.
With the Twins held to three runs, I told my Dad not to be surprised if Twins starter Ervin Santana gave up three runs in the bottom of the first. After all, Santana has never pitched well in Yankee Stadium with a lifetime ERA of 6.43 ERA. Ten minutes later, Yankees shortstop Didi Gregorius would hit a three run home run to tie the game at 3-3. Somehow Twins manager Paul Molitor left Santana in after he threw 42 pitches in the first inning. He would surrender a solo HR to Brett Gardner in the second to give the Yankees a 4-3 lead.
The Twins would tie the game 4-4 in the third when Buxton reached on a fielder's choice scoring Jorge Polanco. Buxton also made a spectacular catch crashing into the wall to rob Yankees catcher Gary Sanchez of a double. But Buxton would later leave the game with back stiffness.
The Yankees regained the lead in the third on a Greg Bird single to make the game 5-4. Aaron Judge blasted a two run home run which just cleared the left field wall to give the Yankees a 7-4 lead. Former Twin Aaron Hicks drove in a run on a bases loaded walk in the seventh to double the lead 8-4.
But the stars of the game was the Yankees bullpen. Chad Green, David Robertson, Tommy Kahnle and Aroldis Chapman pitched 8 2/3 innings giving up only one run on five hits with 13 strikeouts and only 3 walks. Chapman closed out the ninth striking out the side save for a single by longtime Twin Joe Mauer.
Seeing Mauer was a reminder as to why I thought the Twins stood no chance. The Yankees own the Twins defeating them in the ALDS in 2003, 2004, 2009 and 2010. As it turned out tonight was no different. But the Twins have nothing for which to be ashamed. They increased their win total by 26 games and went from a team that lost 103 games to earning a AL Wild Card berth. If it's any consolation Paul Molitor will very likely be named AL Manager of the Year. But the Twins would rather buy a ticket to Cleveland.
The Yankees will face the defending AL champions in the ALDS starting on Thursday night. The Indians are favored to win, but I think the Yankees will prevail in five games.
The NL Wild Card game takes place tomorrow night when the Arizona Diamondbacks host the Colorado Rockies. The winner will travel to L.A. to face the Dodgers in the NLDS on Friday.
Check Out My National Review Online Article About Aaron Judge
Today, National Review Online posted my latest article. The subject was New York Yankees rookie sensation Aaron Judge.
Tonight, Judge hit a two run home run in the Yankees 8-4 victory over the Minnesota Twins in the AL Wild Card Game.
Few things polarize conservatives and liberals than judges, but Aaron Judge is a judge both sides can admire.
Tonight, Judge hit a two run home run in the Yankees 8-4 victory over the Minnesota Twins in the AL Wild Card Game.
Few things polarize conservatives and liberals than judges, but Aaron Judge is a judge both sides can admire.
Monday, October 2, 2017
Family Spokesman Confirms Tom Petty's Death
More sad news on this sad day. Rock legend Tom Petty has in fact died.
There were reports earlier today that he had died of a heart attack, but those reports were later walked back amid additional reports that he was clinging to life and had a chance to pull through. Many people hoped he would not back down. Unfortunately, a family spokesman confirmed Petty's death late on Monday evening from cardiac arrest. Petty was 18 days shy of his 67th birthday.
For more than four decades, Petty was a mainstay in popular music and managed to maintain his place despite changing tastes and trends resonating with generations of audiences on 13 albums with the Heartbreakers, three solo albums and three albums with the Traveling Wilburys. He remained a viable touring act. Only a week before his death, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers played three sold out shows at the Hollywood Bowl.
Under the circumstances, I think it best to play "Mary Jane's Last Dance". R.I.P.
There were reports earlier today that he had died of a heart attack, but those reports were later walked back amid additional reports that he was clinging to life and had a chance to pull through. Many people hoped he would not back down. Unfortunately, a family spokesman confirmed Petty's death late on Monday evening from cardiac arrest. Petty was 18 days shy of his 67th birthday.
For more than four decades, Petty was a mainstay in popular music and managed to maintain his place despite changing tastes and trends resonating with generations of audiences on 13 albums with the Heartbreakers, three solo albums and three albums with the Traveling Wilburys. He remained a viable touring act. Only a week before his death, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers played three sold out shows at the Hollywood Bowl.
Under the circumstances, I think it best to play "Mary Jane's Last Dance". R.I.P.
My 2017 MLB Post-Season Predictions: The 1st Yankees-Dodgers World Series Since 1981
The 2017 MLB post-season begins tomorrow night with the New York Yankees hosting the Minnesota Twins in the AL Wild Card game.
AMERICAN LEAGUE
AL Wild Card - Minnesota Twins vs. New York Yankees (Winner: Yankees)
ALDS (Best 3 out of 5) - Boston Red Sox vs. Houston Astros (Winner: Astros in four)
ALDS (Best 3 out of 5) - New York Yankees vs. Cleveland Indians (Winner: Yankees in five)
ALCS (Best 4 out of 7) - New York Yankees vs. Houston Astros (Winner: Yankees in six)
ALCS MVP - Aaron Judge, New York Yankees
NATIONAL LEAGUE
NL Wild Card - Colorado Rockies vs. Arizona Diamondbacks (Winner: D'Backs)
NLDS (Best 3 out of 5) - Chicago Cubs vs. Washington Nationals (Winner: Nationals in five)
NLDS (Best 3 out of 5) - Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Los Angeles Dodgers (Winner: Dodgers in five)
NLCS (Best 4 out of 7) - Washington Nationals vs. Los Angeles Dodgers (Winner: Dodgers in seven).
NLCS MVP - Cody Bellinger, Los Angeles Dodgers
2017 WORLD SERIES (Best 4 out of 7) New York Yankees vs. Los Angeles Dodgers (Winner: Dodgers in six).
World Series MVP - Justin Turner, Los Angeles Dodgers
AMERICAN LEAGUE
AL Wild Card - Minnesota Twins vs. New York Yankees (Winner: Yankees)
ALDS (Best 3 out of 5) - Boston Red Sox vs. Houston Astros (Winner: Astros in four)
ALDS (Best 3 out of 5) - New York Yankees vs. Cleveland Indians (Winner: Yankees in five)
ALCS (Best 4 out of 7) - New York Yankees vs. Houston Astros (Winner: Yankees in six)
ALCS MVP - Aaron Judge, New York Yankees
NATIONAL LEAGUE
NL Wild Card - Colorado Rockies vs. Arizona Diamondbacks (Winner: D'Backs)
NLDS (Best 3 out of 5) - Chicago Cubs vs. Washington Nationals (Winner: Nationals in five)
NLDS (Best 3 out of 5) - Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Los Angeles Dodgers (Winner: Dodgers in five)
NLCS (Best 4 out of 7) - Washington Nationals vs. Los Angeles Dodgers (Winner: Dodgers in seven).
NLCS MVP - Cody Bellinger, Los Angeles Dodgers
2017 WORLD SERIES (Best 4 out of 7) New York Yankees vs. Los Angeles Dodgers (Winner: Dodgers in six).
World Series MVP - Justin Turner, Los Angeles Dodgers
Terry Collins Resigns as Mets Manager
After seven seasons at the helm of the New York Mets, Terry Collins has resigned as the club's longest reigning manager. The Mets would endure four straight losing seasons under Collins before shocking baseball by winning the NL pennant in 2015 and reaching the post-season again last year, the New York Mets fell on hard times this year falling to a record of 70-92 in 2017, 27 games back of the Washington Nationals in the NL East. Indeed, they finished only four games ahead of the last place Philadelphia Phillies. Collins' resigned after the last game of the season following an 11-0 drubbing at the hands of the Phils who will also have a new manager next season after deciding to kick Pete Mackanin upstairs. Like Mackanin, Collins has accepted a position in the Mets' front office.
Not all of this can be laid at Collins' door. There were injuries to Noah Syndergaard, Steven Matz, Jeurys Familia, Yoenis Cespedes and David Wright not to mention the decline of one time ace Matt Harvey. But someone had to take the fall and Collins' contract was up.
Regardless of who they hire should these aforementioned players be healthy and regain their form next year, the Mets will be right back in the thick of things in 2018.
Not all of this can be laid at Collins' door. There were injuries to Noah Syndergaard, Steven Matz, Jeurys Familia, Yoenis Cespedes and David Wright not to mention the decline of one time ace Matt Harvey. But someone had to take the fall and Collins' contract was up.
Regardless of who they hire should these aforementioned players be healthy and regain their form next year, the Mets will be right back in the thick of things in 2018.
Let's Hope Tom Petty Still Won't Back Down
Well, October has really got off to an awful start beginning with the massacre in Las Vegas which claimed 50 innocent lives at a country music concert. Now comes the news that music legend Tom Petty has died of a heart attack only 18 days shy of his 67th birthday.
However, the LAPD is indicating they cannot confirm this to be true. But according to TMZ, he has just been taken off life support.
Let's hope this isn't true and he somehow pulls through. Under the circumstances, we ought to listen to his signature song "Won't Back Down".
However, the LAPD is indicating they cannot confirm this to be true. But according to TMZ, he has just been taken off life support.
Let's hope this isn't true and he somehow pulls through. Under the circumstances, we ought to listen to his signature song "Won't Back Down".
Is The Mandalay Bay Shooter a Soldier of ISIS or This Generation's Charles Whitman?
When I retired early this morning I knew that the death toll in Las Vegas would exceed two people and so did the rest of the world. Indeed, when I awoke there were 58 dead and more than 500 people injured. It surpassed last year's Orlando Pulse nightclub massacre as the deadliest shooting in American history.
The shooter has been identified as Stephen Paddock. ISIS has claimed he was a recent convert to Islam and that they were responsible for the attack. If this is the case it would render President Trump's Muslim travel ban useless as Paddock is American born and raised. Of course, if this was an ISIS inspired attack it wouldn't stop The Left from demanding more gun control as was the case when CNN collaborated with President Obama on a January 2016 town hall meeting called "Guns in America" following the San Bernardino attacks (the same attacks which prompted Trump to call for his Muslim travel ban). However, at this point, the FBI disputes ISIS' claim.
When I learned about the attack, it reminded me of the November 2015 attack at The Bataclan in Paris and the May 2017 bombing at the Ariana Grande concert in Manchester this past May. But if the FBI is correct in its assessment that there is no connection to Islamic terrorism my attention turns to a mass shooting from more than half a century ago. Specifically, I am referring to the August 1966 massacre at the University of Texas in Austin where Charles Whitman shot and killed 16 people including an unborn child as well as injuring 31 other people from the 28th floor from the campus' tower. Paddock killed his victims from the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Hotel. The similarities may or may not end there but Paddock was 64 and would have been in his early teens at the time of the University of Texas massacre. There's a chance he remembered the attack and might have been inspired by it in some way.
Whatever Paddock's motivations we are going to hear a lot more about gun control and background checks in the coming days. But chances are Paddock would have passed any background checks as it appears that he had no criminal record.
When something horrific and vile as this happens there is always a desire to want to either do something to prevent such an attack in the future or point the finger at others for failing to prevent the unforeseen. I am sure there will be plenty of both occurring. Unfortunately, nothing can undo what happened early this morning and there's probably not much more we can do to prevent things like this from happening beyond what we are already doing. That might seem inadequate to many people and it probably is. But we are often an inadequate species.
The shooter has been identified as Stephen Paddock. ISIS has claimed he was a recent convert to Islam and that they were responsible for the attack. If this is the case it would render President Trump's Muslim travel ban useless as Paddock is American born and raised. Of course, if this was an ISIS inspired attack it wouldn't stop The Left from demanding more gun control as was the case when CNN collaborated with President Obama on a January 2016 town hall meeting called "Guns in America" following the San Bernardino attacks (the same attacks which prompted Trump to call for his Muslim travel ban). However, at this point, the FBI disputes ISIS' claim.
When I learned about the attack, it reminded me of the November 2015 attack at The Bataclan in Paris and the May 2017 bombing at the Ariana Grande concert in Manchester this past May. But if the FBI is correct in its assessment that there is no connection to Islamic terrorism my attention turns to a mass shooting from more than half a century ago. Specifically, I am referring to the August 1966 massacre at the University of Texas in Austin where Charles Whitman shot and killed 16 people including an unborn child as well as injuring 31 other people from the 28th floor from the campus' tower. Paddock killed his victims from the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Hotel. The similarities may or may not end there but Paddock was 64 and would have been in his early teens at the time of the University of Texas massacre. There's a chance he remembered the attack and might have been inspired by it in some way.
Whatever Paddock's motivations we are going to hear a lot more about gun control and background checks in the coming days. But chances are Paddock would have passed any background checks as it appears that he had no criminal record.
When something horrific and vile as this happens there is always a desire to want to either do something to prevent such an attack in the future or point the finger at others for failing to prevent the unforeseen. I am sure there will be plenty of both occurring. Unfortunately, nothing can undo what happened early this morning and there's probably not much more we can do to prevent things like this from happening beyond what we are already doing. That might seem inadequate to many people and it probably is. But we are often an inadequate species.
The Mandalay Bay Attack Evokes Memories of The Bataclan in Paris & Ariana Grande Concert in Manchester UPDATE
Given the attack occurred during a concert, I immediately thought of the November 2015 attacks at the Bataclan in Paris as well as the bombing attack at the Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, UK this past May.
At this point, MSNBC is characterizing this as "a mass shooting" but only two people are confirmed dead. I suspect those numbers will be significantly higher. Given the aforementioned Islamic terrorist acts one must consider that possibility. Unsurprisingly though MSNBC, CNN and even FNC are not prepared to entertain that thought and perhaps never will even this proves to be the case.
Of course, it is possible that this something other than an act of Islamic terrorism but I believe this to be highly unlikely.
Not sure when I'll be going to bed much less be able to sleep.
UPDATE: I am watching MSNBC and listening to a retired ATF agent named Jack Cavanagh who notes that Las Vegas has long been the desired target of Islamic terrorists because it is a symbol of the decadent West. Given the weaponry involved and the chaos caused I would be very surprised if Islamic terrorists aren't responsible for this act of evil.
UPDATE II: I flipped to CNN and saw anchors Natalie Allen and Rosemary Church discussing the "gun epidemic" in America. Somehow I don't think the person or persons responsible for this attack would have been deterred by tougher background checks. To make matters worse they said they couldn't remember a time when people attending a concert were in this position. How do they not remember the Bataclan? The Manchester Arena bombing occurred just over four months ago. This is utterly annoying. It's just past 4 a.m. EST and I don't think I'll getting more information anytime soon. Time for bed. No doubt things will be worse before they get better when I awake.
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