FVBrewerFan

First of all, the odds of Suppan throwing reasonably well for 4 to 5 consecutive starts are slim to none. Secondly, even assuming that were to amazingly happen, I don't think that Suppan would have any trade value unless the Brewers were willing to absorb at least 90% of his salary. I guess if the Brewers want to risk sabatoging the season in an attempt to save a million dollars, this is the strategy they should take. No , the odds are higher than slim to none. I understand you're dead-set against this decision, but don't diminish your point by using statements like this. He's not worth his contract this year, I get that. He's not Cy Young, I get that too. But neither is Manny Parra, look at his numbers last year. Does Parra have an upside? Sure he does. But pitching out of the pen for a while won't hurt him, could even help him. Secondly, we have no idea if the Brewers would have to eat 90% of Suppan's salary. If he shows that he can still get through 6 innings, he has value. Especially for teams that have injury/performance problems in their rotation. Will the Brewers have to eat SOME of Suppan's salary? Sure. But again, I would rather give myself the opportunity to have another team pick up at lest half his salary and get something back in return- all while getting a few decent starts out of the #5 spot. For me, that's a bigger upside than the downside of Suppan getting shelled vs Parra getting shelled. Because history has shown that's almost a pick 'em bet. Finally, Macha is taking the heat but none of know if this move was dictated (or at least suggested) by Melvin and/or Mark A. Those things are almost always denied by the parties involved, yet we're not naive enough to believe that doesn't go on in pro sports.

You don't know that for a fact. Even if you don't agree with the decision, you have to at least acknowledge the upside. If he can go out and throw reasonably well for 3 or 4 starts he has trade value. If he doesn't have that opportunity he has NO trade value. I just don't buy what End said, it's NOT a decision that can only hurt you. You people act like it's impossible for Suppan to pitch 6 innings and give up 3 runs. It's not. and if he can have a couple outings like that, they're in abetter position to move him and free up money for a player that can help in the stretch run. Parra will start, probably sooner rather than later. But c'mon, it's not like they're making Sandy Koufax sit on the pines. (Man, I can't believe I've somehow become a Macha/Suppan defender.)

I've never seen a debate about whether a 100 point swing in OPS/OBP is significant. How does "pathetic" enter in? 100 points is 100 points. So if the pitcher's spot in the line-up improves by 100 points this season it wouldn't be significant?

Don't you know by now? Walks really don't get you on base, and a double is no better than a single?

I don't put much stock into how Macha explains the decision. I have learned over the years to ignore anything a GM or coach says in any sport. (See Ted Thompson.) Bottom line, Suppan is getting paid a ton so you as well see if he has anything left in the tank. Now, no Manager (outside of Ozzie) would pu it that bluntly. I like the decision. Nobody is saying he'll be the #5 all year, regardless of how he pitches. Throw him out there, and if he can be serviceable in the #5 role, sobeit. If he can't, then Parra or Narveson will get their chance. I don't see the problem. Plus, if Suppan actually does pitch ok, or even good, now he has some trade value. That's a pretty easy risk/reward decision.

Wolf has ONE start vs a team that was #2 in the NL last year in runs scored, and he equals Looper?

Yea, not to mention the switch was made at the top of the parking garage. So she's not screaming out of there, that would draw attention. It takes a long time to get to the bottom of a parking garage going a normal speed. At least the action has been there the last couple weeks. But I was really dissapointed Jack didn't call the Prez and get permission to use extreme interogation tactics with Dana. Instead we get the "immunity card" which gets played every season. Which has always bothered me. Are these terrorists all international and constiitutional law attorneys on the side? Why can't the immunity letter be worded in a way that leaves loopholes?

Prince and Braun are on track for 0 HRs this season! Maybe time to put Gomez in the 4 spot?

Not that I agree with it, but a case can be made to boo Hart based on his arby situation. Suppan did get boo'd, those were not "soup" At least not most of them. That does bother me, because Soupan has been a lightening rod for criticism. That's fine, he's overpaid...I get it. But I didn't like hearing him get boo'd. At the time he signed here, it was a big deal. Whether we agreed with it or not. It's not his fault the Brwers gave him the contract. He's handled himself well, and takes the ball and does his best. I don't think that's worth booing.

It really does seem to be half, or more, luck. Can we create our own luck by activley looking for opportunities, meeting peole, etc.? Sure, of course. But even through all that, just plain old luck seems to be involved with anyone who is very successful, and with someone who is out of work. I've had huge swings in my career. Quit a job without another lined up. Fired from another. Income levels have swung wildly from one extreme to the other throughout my career. I think the most important decision that needs to be made is whther you're willing to relocate. Expanding WHERE you'll work will expand your chances of landing a good job. (For me, that's NOT an option at the moment.) So if I get fired today, I will have to do my best to make it work right here in WI. But this is a huge decision, with huge consequences. Along the same lines,I do know people who are commited to living in WI, but didn't get a degree that really fits the jobs available here. I do believe we're all better off taking ANY job while we search for what we really want. It shows potential employers you have a work ethic. They understand times have been tough, but they will have a hard time understanding why you are unemployed for two years. (as an example.)

Moving pick, but it was nice. In fact, moving pick is putting it mildly. I wish the Packers O line could drive block that well!

Thanks Houlie, that makes perfect sense.

So...my son wanted to join a FBL on ESPN with a group of his friends. I was informed of this about 5 minutes before their draft. Like a good father, I helped him log-on, join the league, etc. I literally had no time to review the rules, roster management, scoring, etc. As we were drafting, I figured out it's a 10 team roto league using ESPN's "standard" scoring. As it turns out, I'm pretty comfortable with our roster. Here's my problem. I have no idea who we're supposed to be starting. From what I can tell, we have 26 players on the roster, including 9 pitchers. I found something that says you start 23 players, with 3 on the bench. Then it says something about an innings limit for each pitcher? This all seems different than the fantasy baseball I used to play years ago. I'm looking for help from anyone who plays ESPN roto, and is familiar with their standard rules. Am I supposed to start all 9 pitchers every day? (We have 6 starters and 3 closers.) Then just keep 3 position players on the bench? I feel foolish that somehow I'm missing what the basic strategy is supposed to be for this league. Any help would be appreciated.

A few we take for granted: Remote Contol Garage door opener Power locks, windows, A/C, electronic fuel injection, etc., etc., all standard Digital camera High speed internet access Caller ID Central air A few I would struggle without: Online banking, bill pay HDTV Wireless internet Cell phone/smart phone

These things usually take care of themselves. Someone has to move into the #5 spot. Plus, the Brewers are obviously trying to shop Suppan (they will have to pay a big chunk of his salary, of course) and would probably move Parra for the right price. Then you have injuries, poor performance, etc. All of this means Braddock will be up a some point this season. (Assuming he continues to pitch this well, and stays healthy himself.) For that matter, I'm sure we'll see Axfors, Smith, and others at some point this year. I haven't seen this anywhere, so either I'm stating the obvious or going out a limb, but it looks like they're grooming him to be the closer in 2011. IF that's the case, they'll definitely want him to spend some "quality time" with Hoffman in the bully at some point this year.

Well, it's frightening that we're about to start the season and have no clue what kind of production we'll see from CF or RF. (SS and 3B aren't exactly clear either.) Hart strikes me as a Hall, Hardy, Turnbow, Parra type of player. The athletic ability to produce, but his head gets in the way. Best thing they could do is trade Hart and Parra, but I doubt Hart would bring back very much. So you let him play, and hope he can give you something. If he does get hot, by all means trade him then when his value is higher. Gerut is no answer, and Edmunds can't play full time so there are no other options at present. I'm all for bringing in Dye for a reasonable contract.

Yes, even though i recommended that you stay on the grounds, that's just because it's your daughter's first DW experience. We fight as a family every time. My son and I like staying off the grounds. You can get a condo, house, etc. for a low price- even back when the economy was humming along. We like to have a car, and travel to different restaurants near-by, drive over to Universal's Boardwalk (which is free) etc. I also like the condo/house thing because you can load up the fridge and save some money on breakfast and some lunches. Lots of room to spread out too. So we have done that a few times. But my wife and daughters usually win the debate, and we stay on site. (Like you didn't already know who would win THAT one.)

As long as you're spending a little extra, I strongly recommend upgrading to the Moderate resort class. They are much nicer and usually only cost $30 or so more per night. Maybe you can even negotiate a less expensive or free meal plan by going to a mod, they do have specials like that from time to time. disboards.com is an excellent resource, not affiliated with Disney for what it's worth.

I've been there 10-12 times, and lots of good suggestions above. Here's what I would add: 1) Rule #1,2, and 3. With a 6 year old, don't over-do it. Get there when the park opens in the morning, not as busy then. If you're staying at a Disney Resort (which I recommend for all the reasons mentioned above) you get "Extra Magic" hours, so you can get in parks before the rest of the crowd does. (Can also stay later, but probably not an option with a 6 yr old..) Stay until Noon or 1:00 or so so, then head back to the hotel for a few hours. Let her relax, nap, swim...whatever. It's a long day for a 6 year old. The sun, crowd, all the stimuli... I have seen thousands of verbal fights and even some physical ones from parents who are intent one getting every minute of fun in for the money. So take it slow...you're much better off adding another day then trying to do too much each day. 4) Parkhopper. Add this option. You may want to go to Animal Kingdom all morning (best time to go) go back to the hotel, and then Epcot in the evening. Parkhopper would give you the freedom to try variations of that each day. (Personal editorial here, I would skip the Studios Park altogether for a 6 yr old. But she would probably love the "Fantasmic" show at the end of the night) 5) Don't forget Downtown Disney. It's free, and a way to get a little shopping done, really cool Lego store, etc. 6) Princess breakfast is a must, since she's into that. 7) It is a ZOO getting out of Magic Kingdom at the end of the night. Especially if you have to wait for your bus back to the resort. And especially if that bus is going back to the All Star resorts. But, the Electric Light Parade (called something else now I think) and fireworks are really cool, and you should do that once. Just make sure she (and you) have plenty of rest during the afternoon that day. Otherwise there WILL be a meltdown. 8) IF you can get away for a few hours, Disney has outstanding golf courses on premises. Heck, beg to put in 9 at least. That's off the top of my head. Helping people with Disney planning is almost a hobby of ours.

TV ad war aside, AT&T simply has a lousy 3G network. If you travel a lot, Verizon or Sprint are your best choices. HTC and others have phones that are very similar to the I phone now. Not quite as "cool" and they don't have all the apps I phone does. But if you want fast downloads and fast internet browsing, Verizon or Sprint is the way to go. Sprint is ahead of the curve as far as 4G is concerned. I have used every provider, past and present, with the exception of Sprint- so I can't "vouch" for their service quality, coverage area, customer service, etc. If Apple does open up the Iphone for Verizon, I'll be first in line.

I don't understand all the hate/confusion over the Michael Scott character. Michael hasn't changed since the first episode. He is always doing or saying something "over the top." I actually find his character interesting, because through all the bluders there are times he proves he's a great salesmen, and even has more business savy than we would think. With that said, I enjoy his "inventing new words" than the real over the top stuff, but since it's Michael it's funny to me. We all have our own sense of humor, I guess. I know lots of people like Earl and/or 30 Rock, and those shows jsut don't "do it" for me.

Simple fact is that the most of the seats in the upper deck are horrible. There have been games I wanted to go to where there were only seats in the rafters or in the upper corners available. So I could A) Get good seats from a ticket broker for an outrageous price or B) Pay for awful seats where I can't really even enjoy the game. For the most part, I have chosen C) Watch on TV. I have been to two games, would go more often if the seating for basketball in the BC wasn't so horrific.

Yea, I try real hard not to pay attention to plot holes. Talk about the most glaring though, you mean to tell me CTI doesn't have redundant systems off-site? I know tiny companies with little need for much security that have redundant systems at another physical location. But that aside, at least it has really picked up the last coule weeks and I look forward to it each week now. For most of the year it was something I had to almost force myself to sit through.

I'm in the odd position of defending both Suppan and the quality start stat. As far as Suppan goes, he's getting paid too much money to cut him or throw him in the bully- where he probably won't be successful anyhow. It's a long season. Give him the chance to start the year in the rotation. If he blows up 3 or 4 times you always have the option of cutting him loose then. Maybe he's serviceable for a couple months and you can get something out of him. As far as quality starts go, I agree it's not the msot accurate term for the stat. And yes, the stat itself is flawed. Yet, I do think it has value. If a SP can get you through 6 innings and only give up 3 runs, you should be "in the game." Now, QUALITY start may not be the best term. But we all know wha tit is, and what it means, so the name is almost irrelevant. We all know how the Brewers starters struggled getting through 6 innings last year, so I do think there's some vaule in looking at the percentage of times a SP gets a QS. Finally, I think it;s an even better gauge for your #4,5,6 etc. starters. If guys like Suppan, Smith, and a cast of thousands can get a QS, I don't expect much more than that. If Suppan could go out and pitch 6 innings every start with a 4.50 I could live with that. See, ERA is deceiving too. Would you rather have one brilliant start from him, two QS, and then 3 times he gets lit up, or would you prefer 5 QS? Speaking for myself, I would be fine with consistent mediocrity from the #5 SP.

Took me a day, but I am now content with the Badgers drubbing. Very simply, UW was seeded a bit too high, and Cornell was seeded way too low. It's hard for the committee to seed an Ivy League team very high, but that is a darn god basketball team. I don't know if they can hang with Kentucky, but if the brackets were a little different, Cornell could be a Final Four team. Simialr situation for MU. They caught a red-hot Wash team. I think MU would have beaten New Mex, and sitting in the Sweet 16, but it's the luck of the draw. We see it every year, but we never quote believe it. These teams that are hot and/or really good mid-major teams can and will beat anyone. That's what makes the tourney great.