The Pictures Are All Around Me

Before we get too depressed about the next 1,154 days (and since This Guy is out of town mingling with high level dignataries) let's get to something that I truly can't even wrap my feeble little brain around.

In two days, the NFL will broadcast a LIVE football game in High Definition 3D. Yeah, you read that right... Think Jaws 3 meets Ron Jaworski. Now, the game is only being broadcast to a few movie theaters in Boston, LA, and New York. And, yes you still have to wear those dorky glasses. Apparently, this is old technology. The NBA broadcast its All Star game in 3D HD last July. Where the hell was I? Not worrying about what the NBA was doing, that's for sure.

To even top this.... Phillips is ready to ship a 3D HD tv that doesn't require dorky glasses. It sends a different picture to you right eye than it does to your left eye. Don't think about that one too long or your brain might implode. The set will only set you back $25,000. This is coming from a guy that can't afford a 300 dollar HDTV this year.

Just think of the possibilities...the porn industry must be getting very excited (pardon the pun).

Day after Thanksgiving?

So on this day after Thanksgiving, a day of-- yeah, you guessed it-- giving thanks, I wonder what in the world is next? I won't bother you with all that I'm thankful for-- it's just the usual stuff everyone else says anyway.

All the experts say the economy is in the tank. We've (and by we, I in no way mean me, myself, or I, but the American electorate) have elected a modern day Robinhood (sorry, but I'd rather have Kevin Costner in that role, not POTUS). I do wish BO the best. Afterall, it's the lives of 300+ million people that he has in his hands, basically. He, in my opinion, can't bring prosperity to all of us, but he can certainly put us all in the perverbial toilet. That is not my wish, I do not want to say, I told you so. I can't help but fear that in 1,514 days that is exactly what will happen.

In the meantime, all we can do is go about living. I am told that shopping early this morning was just as busy last year. That's a good thing. My Christmas won't be much different than any from the past (other than traveling to see a new nephew). I guess what I'm trying to say is I'm thankful that things haven't changed that much for me. Maybe that is a little different than everybody else.

America Decides '08

What is ahead of us, no one knows. Why take chances with a community organizer? Especially since that community organizer is at the very least a socialist, who wishes to spread the wealth to those who don't even pay taxes now. 34% of Americans don't pay federal income taxes, yet Obama wants to give them a tax rebate (he includes them in the 95% of Americans he's giving a tax credit to). How is that fair? They don't do enough work to pay taxes, yet they get money. That's your money. That's my money.

There are many that need to realize that when the founders wrote, "...all men are created equal..." that phrase is up to interpretation. I happen to intrepret it to, all men are created equal. There has been too much insistance that everyone is equal. If I do more work and work harder than you, we're no longer equal. People who earn more money than me, deserve that money.

All I ask when you go to vote, is that you ask yourself, can I deal with myself if I allow another 9/11 to happen? Joe Biden said it would, if his running mate was elected. Can you deal with a communist as president? That's what will happen if Obama's elected. Do you want a first lady who's not proud to be an American? Do you want a president, who's spent 35 months in the Senate (20 of which he's been campaigning for president) and has never authored a piece of meaningful legislation?

It's scary to even think this is close.

Bold Prediction of America Decides '08

First, I'm not even going to touch the post directly below. I agree, but I'm not even going to touch it.



I've tried to keep this blog politics free-it's become harder and harder as election day gets closer. So, This Guy will devote only 3 posts to this election. This post is the first. It will be short and has a great chance of being wrong. Hence, that's why it's called a bold prediction.



John McCain will lose the state of Maryland by less than he loses the state of Pennsylvania.



Technically that's just crazy speak, MD is heavily African American, heavy democrat, and heavy liberal (plus is you saw SNL it's also under the heavy weight of Michigan right now). PA is a swing state, therefore it's technically 50/50. Even the bitter Pennsylvanians that cling to their religion and their guns won't be enough to give McCain the victory in PA.

How the Tampa Bay Rays Saved Bud Selig's Ass (or How the Rain May Have Washed Out a Phillies World Series Win)

Carlos Pena may be getting an extra bonus in his check next month. No, not from the Rays owners for keeping his team alive in the 2008 World Series. Mr. Pena's bonus will be coming directly from the Office of the Commisioner of Baseball. He's getting a little extra under his Christmas tree this year because he single handedly saved Bud Selig's ass.

(Full Disclaimer: I am a huge Phillies fan, obviously, so this will be slightly biased. But I am convinced that my arguments would be the same if the rain would have been falling in the other stadium... oh wait, that's not even possible... well, you get what I mean.)

The umpires, Mr. Selig (and if you believe This Guy... Mr. Murdoch) should never, ever allowed both of those teams to even start out the 6th inning. The conditions, according to Big Head and Square Face, couldn't get much worse and that was in the 4th inning. By the top of the 6th, it was truly ugly out there. Water in the infield... water in the outfield... and Cole Hamels hair finally got wet. But here's the problem... and this is a huge BUT... According to MLB rules, the game was official a half-inning before that point. That meant unless Buddy Boy stepped in, the Phillies would have been World Series Champions only winning 3 1/2 games... not the usual 4. So now that the game is tied, Mr. Selig's decision is that much more easy to take for the general baseball fan.

(Another Disclaimer: Even being a Phillies fan... and desperately wanting to remember a World Series win in my lifetime, I would give anything to have the Fightins win the World Series... but I would hesitate to see it happen on somewhat of a technicality.)

My point is that a change in the rules should have been established long before this game started. Selig should have announced that in the case of a suspended game (he does have the Weather Channel, right?), the game will not be decided unless a full 9 innings have been played. I know, that is a major rule change... but he is the Commish and this is the World Series. But that's not what happened. He made sure that the Rays batted in the top of the 6th... hoping and praying that they would tie the game (and they did it in large part due to the awful field conditions... there is no doubt in my mind that in normal weather Pat Burrell's throw gets Upton 9 times out of 10). That way his decision to suspend the game wouldn't look too bad. This game should have been suspended after 5 innings with the Phillies up 2-1. Finish it up tonight, or tomorrow, or Thanksgiving Day if that's what it takes. But don't let the Rays tie it up.

In an effort to not let the weather affect the outcome of the game... Mr. Selig let the weather affect the outcome of the game. Another grand decision by the guy who has made more major changes to the game than any other Commish before him. Most of them bad.

Plus, despite the success of the Phillies bullpen, and the layoff, the Rays now have momentum in their favor with a great chance of this game going back to Tampa Bay. Which doesn't bode well for this Phillies fan.

So despite all his attempts at playing God, Mr. Selig still couldn't control the weather. But he did let the weather change the entire face of this storied Fall Classic.

2008 World Series Game 2 Live

8:00 PM Pre-Game:
Welcome to live blogging of the 2008 World Series. I'm This Guy, That Guy will join us shortly. Last night the Phillies depended on their pitching to secure a 3-2 win. Cole Hamels, Ryan Madsen, and Brad Lidge were able to overcome the worst display of hitting with RISP in the World Series EVER (0 for 13). That's not a way to start an important series.

Brett Myers takes the hill tonight, against Rays starter, James Shields. The question of the game is, which Myers shows up? Hopefully the one that wins ballgames.

8:19 PM National Anthem:
Much better, thanks.

8:32 PM Still Pre-Game:
Good God, what was wrong with the 8:22 first pitch of the LCSes? I understand FOX's need to make money, they paid a lot of money for the rights to these games, but they have the rights, why do they determine so much in regards to when games start and are played? I'm sure they make their money back. I would like to make it my initiative to have WS games start at 7:35 on weekdays and 4:30 on weekends. I don't know how to follow through with that, and I'm pretty sure I can't out spend Murdoch.

Phillies 0, Rays 0, 1 Out Top 1:
When did Jimmy Rollins turn into a worse version of Lenny Dykstra? Popping up, striking out, it's like it's 1991.

Phillies 0, Rays 0, 0 Out Bottom 1:
How about we throw some strikes?

Phillies 0, Rays 0, 0 Out Bottom 1:
Brett Myers does not have to prove Square Face right here, does he? By the way, Mrs. That Guy suggested that the newer posts go on top. Your thoughts?

Phillies 0, Rays 1, 1 Out Bottom 1:
Not a fan of blogs that do that. Sorry, if you're used to it. This way you don't ruin the end. Please limit the damage as early as possible.

Phillies 0 Rays 2, End 1:
Ok, that's why you are This Guy and I am only That Guy. Did Ryan Howard almost make another error there? Maybe Charlie should think about benching him.

I thought the same thing (about making the error, not the benching). Looks like he needs some infield work. There have already been some Square Face comments I've let slide, but I just took a look at the slow-mo of Werth's error. He just missed it, didn't take his eye off the ball.

Phillies 0, Rays 2, 1 Out Top 2:
It's the little things that win series. Rays did it in the first, will the Phillies learn to do it anytime soon?

Phillies 0, Rays 2, 2 Out, Top 2:
Would that now be 0-15 with RISP now?

Phillies 0, Rays 2, Mid 2:
No, 0-16. Great job guys. Any idea where I can find out if Shields even throws a cutter?

Phillies 0, Rays 2, Bottom 2:
What you don't trust Square Face? According to his book, he can teach baseball to Brain Surgeons. Oh, and at least Jimmy's defense is still tough. Also, I know that ball was smoked... but have you noticed that Chase's range isn't all that great to his right?

Phillies 0, Rays 2, 1 Out, Bottom 2:
Not sure about the positioning there. His range is pretty decent. It may be the first step that is a problem. What in the world happened there?? When is a strike out not a strike out? When Kerwin Danley is the umpire.

Phillies 0, Rays 2, 1 Out, Bottom 2:
Tonight's game might be even weirder than last night's game?

Phillies 0, Rays 3, End 2:
Jimmy does get around all right. Man this game is just going to be weird.

I can only imagine that wasn't good for a mitocondrian dysfunction.

That is an amazing story. How in the world are you able to play baseball with a condition like that. I mean, I realize it's not hockey or anything... but wow. Let's not let this get too far out of control.

Phillies 0, Rays 3, 1 Out, Top 3:
I think that's exactly what the Red Sox fans were saying in game 2. Wow, did Ruiz ever hit that ball hard. Was that really that hard of a play? I'm just happy they moved the runner.

Phillies 0, Rays 3 2 Out, Top 3:
O-17 with RISP and Werth is 0-8. That's just sad!

Phillies 0, Rays 3, Mid 3:
Seriously! Ok, now I'd like to see how bad it can get. Over/Under of 24. Your pick. And here's what I got about my earlier question about James Shields. I vote for the slider that's not quite right-- see Rob Nen for an explanation.

Phillies 0, Rays 3, Bottom 3:
I'll take the under just because I'm optimistic. Oh great, there's my favorite shot again. Since Square Face has been getting the brunt tonight. I'll focus on Big Head. How is it possible to just look like an ass when you are just sitting there.

Phillies 0, Rays 3, End 3:
It's kind of amazing to me that we thought the exact same thing! If I wasn't out in the web searching for what pitches James Shields throws, I would have said it first. What kind of chair did Square Face have? It had pool table fabric as it's cushions.

Phillies 0, Rays 3, Top 4:
He has a very important ass that must be as comfortable as possible.

2 for 2, that's a good start to break out of a slump. Um...a 91 mph cange up is impressive. Square Face is in rare form.

Phillies 0, Rays 3, 1 Out, Top 4:
Maybe having Milt Thompson as a hitting coach is finally catching up to the Phillies. I'm just saying... ok, ok, here we go. Need to take advantage of the crazy stuff like that. And it wasn't that great of a play... the ball was trickling.

Okay, so you win the over/under considering that was a hit. Hardly fair, since they didn't score.

Phillies 0, Rays 3, 1 Out, Top 4:
So, Ken Rosenthal basically said it... the Rays are cheaters... and Dobbs sucks.

Phillies 0, Rays 3, Mid 4:
How many times until Big Head got that right? Dobbs is struggling, those were two ugly at-bats.

Phillies 0, Rays 3, Mid 4:
Ken Rosenthal needs a nickname. Rosenthal is just too long to type all the time. I guess if we stick with the theme it would be Short Guy. I guess this isn't why the Rays don't have a drop off after their first starter. I didn't realize they had Bob Gibson in their rotation.

Phillies 0, Rays 3+ O out, Bottom 4:
Let's go with Shorty, I don't want him thinking he has privelages on this blog.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, 2 Out, Bottom 4:
Wow, Maddon is crazy... RayHawk and all. Although, I do love the squeeze. Man the Phillies are going to bet beat tonight by a matter of inches.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, End 4
Ok, okay. Um...that kind of pisses me off a little. 1-0, 2-0 maybe. I hope that fires up the Phils too. It's a lot of runs needed, considering there's a future HOFer on the mound.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, End 4:
This Guy, that's an old philosophy that doesn't exist anymore. I am a little conflicted on that one. I wouldn't steal a base in that situation, but the Phillies offense does have the potential to hang a lot of runs on the board. Got to get the runs when you can. But at the same time, it does seem a little excessive up by 3... guess that's why I blog for a living... oh wait, I don't even do that.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, 0 Outs, top 5:
I would also steal a base there. It is just an odd situation. 2 Outs up by 3 with a guy that's been on base like every time he's at the plate.
At least Rollins is on base...maybe he can cause some havoc that way.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, 1 Out, Top 5:
Run, if you're running Jimmy... guess no free tacos tonight.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, Mid 5
They may just run now. I was about to say that PhilsNation.com may have had it right earlier today, when suggesting that Victorino should have moved to the #2 hole. That was until Werth almost broke Shields' femur. Bad, bad, bad baseball (on the Phils part) Nice defensive play by a guy who can't even walk without shaking after 5 innings.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, Mid 5:
Ok, I said I was going to be optimistic (Good god, how many times is Chevy Chase going to jump in that damn pool) but I am really starting to get concerned. Now is the time to put my self in the shoes of a Rays fan. Should Square Face and Big Head be heaping a little more praise on Shields. I mean, he is unbelievable tonight and they are pretty much ignoring him.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, 1 Out, Bottom 5:
You would think they would say something. Can you imagine if Andy Pettite was throwing like this. McCarver would be practically on his knees in worship.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, 1 Out, Bottom 5:
Ok, what the hell is going on? It was a bad throw by Ruiz, but it looked like Howard didn't even move. All that damn talk about rust (and I mean A LOT of talk about rust last night) and tonight's the night that they should break out the Rust Oleum.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, End 5:
Well, you always hope for the split when you're away. I'm not saying this is over, I've watched this team plenty of times late in games this year take care of business. It's just a little frustrating that they're sucking as bad as they are. The 9 year olds I played baseball with way back when, played more solidly than this.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, Top 6:
Again, still trying to be optimistic... but I remember and I mean barely remember 25 years ago. Let's break it down for you here. Phils go to the American League park and win game 1... (by just one run with a solid pitching performance) and then they just couldn't get get a win the rest of the series. They lost game 2. 4-1, by the way. Kind of eerie... especially this close to Halloween.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, 2 Outs, Top 6:
I'm guessing Milt Thompson doesn't teach to hit the ball the other way. He may talk about it. But this team never does it. Never (At least during the playoffs). I think the Phillies hitters need to take control of the game a little. Call time, make Shields wait on them a little. And if I see one more inside fastball sitting in the catcher's mitt, with a Phillies players' arms above their head, I'm going to throw this computer through the television (upstairs so I don't ruin my nice LCD)

Phillies 0, Rays 4, 2 Outs, Top 6:
Ok, let's not let This Guy resort to violence. We need a little 2 out magic... at least Shields is out.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, Mid 6:
Okay, since no one chimed in to answer my movie quote question last night. The answer is here. I was going to give away a car, but no one wins that.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, Bottom 6:
Ok, I knew they would go there at some point. But why tonight? Why go there when the Phillies are losing and make their fans feel even more like s(*&?. Too bad about the car. I could have used that.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, Top 7:
Let's hope Maddon makes at least 1 move too many. I'm starting to dislike everything about this team, and I'm not really sure why.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, Top 7:
Gee Square Face... I thought baseball was losing African American players to hockey. Brilliant deduction as always. GREAT at bat by Ruiz.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, Top 7:
Why is Wheeler doing his best Jim Eisenreich impression? What's with the glove twitch before he pitches?

Phillies 0, Rays 4, 1 Outs, Top 7:
Whatever it is... (maybe he's applying vaseline) it seems to be working. Man, Jimmy Rollins is just bad tonight.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, 2 Outs, top 7:
U-G-L-Y. Probably wasn't a strike, but too close to take with 2 strikes.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, 2 Outs, Top 7:
That wasn't a strike either... Do you see that huge iron pipe that Howard swings on deck. Is it possible for that guy to be any bigger?

Big is a word of many meanings. Let's see if he can live up to his size.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, End 7:
Kerwin Danley definitely did not lose this game for the Phillies (they did a good enough job of that on their own), but man... he is just awful. How is it possible that you have guys like that working the biggest games of the year. That's just plain bad!

I'm not really sure that's his actual name, by the way. But yeah, it's not Kerwin's fault the Phillies are on their way to a tied series. I'm going to go out on a limb and say it's every Phillies' players fault on that one. 1 for 26 with RISP. Sounds like a team meeting is in store.

No, that's his name... and maybe this explains why he's just not good.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, 1 Out, Bottom 7:
Big Head, let it go. They are down four runs and Myers has actually looked pretty good here the last few innings. There's no rule out there that you have to use 15 different pitchers.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, End 7:
Have you noticed that Fox Trax isn't that accurate? I'm not sure the last time I've seen a double-play turned when the runner was going. Nice play.

Phillies 0, Rays 4, 1 Out, Top 8:
Fox Trax is a joke... and yes that was an amazing play. Didn't believe he even tried for second on that one. Man, this Phils line up is making the Rays pitching staff look like they are all Bob Gibsons. They're not THAT good are they?

Phillies 1, Rays 4, Mid 8:
No, they're not, as Eric Bruntlett just proved. I kind of wish Chevy Chase would just drown already. I freeze-framed the double play. He was actually out too. At least the Phils did something right tonight.

Phillies, 1, Rays 4, Bottom 8:
Please, please, please, please stop talking about the Mohawk.

Phillies 1, Rays 4, End 8:
Ok, thanks to Big Head for explaining Joe Maddon's 9=8 to me. If you would allow me the time to discuss this theory. 9 players playing hard for 9 innings equals being one of the 8 teams in the playoffs. Remember that card game we used to play when we were younger, yeah, I'm calling bullshit. Especially coming from a guy who manages a team that MUST HAVE 10 players in the line up. Retarded. Sorry to the mentally challenged, but that's how I use that word.

Phillies 1, Rays 4, Top 9:
Ok, Kerwin Danley may actually lose this game for the Phillies. Great sound work there from FOX.

Phillies 1, Rays 4, 1 Out, Top 9:
So imagine this. Instead of Jimmy Rollins, it's This Guy at bat in that situation. I stand there--on home-plate and just don't move. Ever-- until he at least talks to another umpire. This is rediculous. I hope he breaks his jaw again.

Well, a split isn't that bad. Let's hope the offense warms up in the cold weather in Philly on Saturday. Thanks again This Guy for a fun night. Sleep well.

It was my pleasure. Let's give credit to Shields, Wheeler, and Price. They were definitely lights out. From nowhere near St. Petersburg, FL the final score tonight was Tampa 4, Philadelphia 2. Thanks for reading. Goodnight.

That Guy's Girl

You get the message-- sorry, That Guy's Wife (That Girl, I guess) <<Mrs. That Guy, would actually be correct>> can't remember to stop turning the camera.

2008 World Series Game 1 Live

8:00 PM (All times local game time) Pre-Game: Welcome to This and That in the Morning...I'm This Guy. That Guy will be joining us soon (I think). Sit back, relax, pull up a chair, and enjoy our musings for this Game 1 of the 2008 World Series.

8:04 PM Pre-Game: Just a heads up-- I'm pretty sure I hate Joe Buck and Tim McCarver.

8:08 PM Pre-Game: Once you get past the extreme close-ups and rediculously crazy-loud crowd noise, Fox puts on a pretty good production. I have appreciated the music they've used during the playoffs. It's classy and I would even go as far as to say it's a risky choice.

Player Introductions: How do you boo Chase Utley? I'm not sure even Philly fans would be booing during the player introductions of the 1st game of the World Series. And what's with the damn cowbells? That's not normal at a baseball game. Sounds more like something a soccer game would have. We won't even discuss that any further.

I wish both teams the best. Above all (other than a Phils win) I hope for a good series. This looks on paper like it will be one.

National Anthem: Interesting.

8:31 Pre-Game: So Vegas odds of 155-1. That's a pretty good bet if you made it. I don't believe I would have. McCarver was a little better tonight, during NLCS pre-series comments he stated that there was a huge drop-off in talent from Cole Hamels to the rest of the Phillies starters. Now he says there's more of a drop-off for the Phillies than the Rays. I don't disagree with him. I just found it crazy how much he iterated how bad of a drop-off they had from Hamels to Myers. It's going to be a long series having to listen to them.

8:36 Pre-Game: Last comments before the first pitch. As That Guy's Daughter would say, "GO PHILLIES."

Phillies 0, Rays 0 1 Out Top 1:
Nice to see Rollins get the team off to a good start.

Phillies 2, Rays 0, 1 Out, Top 1:
Now that's a way to get ahead. I guess bunting may not have been Utley's best idea. First official "Get Out" of the WS from This Guy's house. It won't be the last.

Phillies 2, Rays 0, 3 Outs, Bottom 1:
There goes that first mistake of the WS. Nice turn by Rollins-- where was Upton out of the box?

Phillies 2, Rays 0, 1 Out, Top 2:
Would we have gotten two free tacos had they actually been able to execute the double steal? I guess we'll never know.

Phillies 2, Rays 0, 3 Out, Mid 2:
This Guy's comments seemed to wipe mine out. Why can't Jimmy hit a fly ball deep enough for a sac fly?

Phillies 2, Rays 0, Mid 2:
You play the 3rd base coach. Do you send Victorino there?

Phillies 2, Rays 0, 0 Out, Bottom 2:
It's early, why not? How could a guy named Steve Smith be wrong?

Phillies 2, Rays 0, 1 Out, Bottom 2:
Good point. You're up 2 runs and it's only the 2nd inning. I don't want to jinx things... but Mr. Hamels is looking quite tough tonight.

Phillies 2, Rays 0, 3 Outs, Bottom 2:
I think Mr. Longoria and Mr. Aybar haven't seen a change-up quite like his. Good start. How long do you think he can go? He's not throwing as many pitches as I've seen him throw.

Phillies 2, Rays 0, End of 2:
That's a great point. Let's just shoot for a solid 7 innings and let the back end of the bullpen take it over. Am I the only one that freaks out when everyone keeps mentioning the fact that Brad Lidge has been perfect all season?

Phillies 2, Rays 0, 0 Outs, Top3:
Ken Rosenthal= bad on TV. Not bad in print, but please, does he have to be in on the coverage? Chris Myers is a pretty decent interviewer. I freak out when Lidge comes into the game. Why do they keep ruining the free tacos???

Phillies 2, Rays 0, 1 Out, Top 3:
Look at that shift? Have you ever seen that? And who wants to be the first basemen in with Ryan Howard at bat?

Phillies 2, Rays 0, 3 Outs, Top 3:
That was a unique defensive alignment. Has Howard ever heard of put the ball in play? Some of those stats were impressive, though. A-Rod is 40 RBIs behind him in the past 3 yrs. Can the Phils win without Howard and Burrell hitting?

Phillies 2, Rays 0, 3 Outs, Top 3:
That is a great question. Is anyone starting to get worried about all these runners left in scoring position. I am surprised Phillie hater McCarver hasn't mentioned it yet. And by the way, how does a guy like that become a Philly hater. Did the fans hurt his feelings or something?

Phillies 2, Rays 0, 1 Out, Bottom 3:
Funny you should mention that. tonight on PTI he actually said he enjoyed playing in Philadelphia. Buck then made a wisecrack that he knew who McCarver was rooting for. I found that quite ironic.

Phillies 2, Rays 0, 1 Out, Bottom 3:
Hamels is starting to miss up in the zone. Not getting worried just yet, but is it possible that this 23 year old may start acting like he's only 23?

Phillies 2, Rays 0, 1 Out, Bottom 3:
McCarver simply doesn't pay attention. The pitch to Zobrist right after the first curveball, was another curveball. PAY ATTENTION!!! Jackass.

Phillies 2, Rays 0, 1 Out, Bottom 3:
How about that fist pump from Ryan Howard. Good to see that these guys are fired up as well. I guess Feliz is worth it for his glove after all.

Phillies 2, Rays 0, End of 3:
Quick question... do old dudes like me get in for free at Disney World on their birthdays or is it just the little kids?

Phillies 2, Rays 0, Top 4:
Pretty sure you get in for free as well. Just have to bring the family and still go down $400 without the cost of getting down there. Victorino is impressive.

Phillies 2, Rays 0, Top 4:
Yes, very impressive for a waiver guy. Did that pitch actually brush the ground and still get called a strike?

Phillies 2, Rays 0, Top 4:
Free taco anyone?

Phillies 2, Rays 0, 0 Outs, Top 4:
I don't even like Taco Bell. I just like the stolen base. I'm going to need a codeword to bitch about McCarver. It's just going to happen too often.

Phillies 3, Rays 0, 2 Outs, Top 4:
I suggest Square Face. How is it possible, that the strike zone keeps expanding each inning?

Phillies 3, Rays 0, 3 Outs, Top 4:
Okay, so we have Big Head and Square Face calling the game for FOX. Big Head references Buck's ego, just in case you didn't know. I sure hope Rollins gets the hang of this hitting thing. 0 for 8 with RISP for the playoffs isn't good.

Philies 3, Rays 0, 2 Outs, Bottom 4:
Big Head and Square Face. Kind of sounds like a cartoon show? I am surprised that Fox hasn't thought of that already. Too bad Charlie doesn't do those interviews. Crap... there goes the shutout.

Phillies 3, Rays 1, 3 Outs, Bottom 4:
I didn't hear Square Face correctly there. Did he say at first it was a change-up? Or did he say he feels the curveball is the most dangerous pitch to a left-hander from a southpaw? Either way he's an idiot. That was a nice piece of hitting by Crawford. I wasn't expecting this team to be shutout.

Phillies 3, Rays 1, Top 5:
You heard him correctly on the curveball thing. And according to Square Face, it wasn't that great of hitting because that curveball is the easiest thing to hit for lefthander. By the way, am I drunk or does Joe Maddon have a faux hawk?

Phillies 3, Rays 1, 1 Out, Top 5:
I'm pretty sure you're drunk...but that's besides the point. He probably does have a RayHawk as they're calling it.

Phillies 3, Rays 1, 2 Out, Top 5:
Either way, he is too old for a hawk anything. Phillies need to take advantage of this mistake... even with 2 outs.

Phillies 3, Rays 1, 0 Outs, Bottom 5:
Question with this replay thingy that now exits. If a ball seems to hit one of these things (catwalks) protruding from the ceiling of this baseball stadium...do they replay it in case there's a question?

Phillies 3, Rays 1, 1 Out, Bottom 5:
I would think they have to go to the replay. I am not sure that any camera would be able to catch it though. That's got to be very difficult to track a fly ball in that place. Wouldn't it be cool, if some kid got stung by a sting ray right on national television?

Phillies 3, Rays 1, 2 Outs, Bottom 5:
I'm not sure about cool, but it would probably cause them to rethink the tank. I would think they aren't the type of rays that sting. I would like to see it though.

Phillies 3, Rays 1, 2 Outs, Bottom 5:
Ok, I realize that Brett Myers isn't Sandy Koufax or anything, but if Square Face says one more time about a drop off. I am going to fly to St. Pete and just beat the crap out of him. There's your taco.

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 2 Outs, Bottom 5:
That's why you can't walk the 9 batter. Especially since Iwamura is Ty Cobb. Think I can auction off my free taco on ebay?

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 3 Outs, End of 5:
Seeing how everyone in America gets one, you might have a hard time getting much for it. But hey, go for it and see what happens. I have been known to be wrong in the past. Here's where 5 or 6 to 2 would be much better. If the Phillies lose this game, then they only have themselves (mainly Jimmy Rollins, Ryan Howard, Pat Burrell) to blame.

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 0 Outs, Top 6:
Do you agree with Coste as DH in this game?

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 1 Outs, Top 6:
I'm not a fan of making a big deal out of the lefty/righty match up, which this clearly was. I do feel Coste deserved a chance to play at some point. I probably would have used Dobbs- who has also earned it.

Phillies 3, Rays 2, Mid 6:
I agree with you on the lefty/right match up, but apparently we are only the two people in the world who feel that way (well, actually Grace doesn't really get the whole obsession with getting that match up either. But she is a traditionalist and hates the DH, Astroturf and the Wild Card as well). Again, the leadoff man gets on and they get nothing. At least Jimmy hit the ball hard this time.

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 1 Out, Bottom 6:
Howard was bailed out there. That was a heck of a tag by Rollins. I think it was a pretty good non-call on a balk. It was close, but Square Face's comment on you can't deceive the runner is especially interesting considering the runner was already running therefore can't be deceived.

Phillies 3, Rays 2, End 6:
I was thinking the exact same thing. Kind of hard to be deceived when you weren't even looking in his direction. Don't get me wrong. I love Ryan Howard. But he's going to have to step up very soon.

Phillies 3, Rays 2 1 Out, Top 7:
Since Square Face doesn't know what a read is, I'll explain. A read is when a left-handed pitcher waits to decide to throw to first or home based on what the runner does-- he's reading the runner. Hamels doesn't do that. He decides before delivering the ball whether he's going to first or home. The Rays have scouted that and know he doesn't read runners, therefore they're running on first movement.

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 2 Out, Top 7:
What is wrong with Ryan Howard?
Apparently everything.

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 2 Out, Top 7: it's the SprintPCS call to the bullpen.
Well, if I asked you who would have the most RBI's for the Phillies by game 1 of the WS before the playoffs started, who would you have said?

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 2 Out, Top 7:
Utley, Howard, Burrell. Let's see if he can add one more to the mix.

Phillies 3, Rays 2 Mid 7: Stretch time
Don't swing at the high ones. Name the movie.

Phillies 3, Rays 2 Mid 7: Stretch time
I hate to say it, but I am not positive on that one. As a consolation, here's some stretch entertainment.

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 1 Out Bottom 7:
We'll open it up to the listene-- I mean readers. First to comment with the answer gets something-- we'll figure it out later. Thanks for the music.

Phillies 3, Rays 2, End 7:
Excuse me while a charge my battery. And that is not a euphemism. I'll be back online in a second.

Phillies 3, Rays 2, Mid 8:
I'll admit it, I'm nervous. Everybody has been praising the Phillies 8th and 9th inning. Let's see how they'll hold up. This is great! I'm getting tired of seeing Chevy Chase jump into the pool.

Phillies 3, Rays 2, Top 8:
Just like that other annoying Direct TV commercial with the Coach. I'm baaack! Ryan Madson has definitely shown his stuff in the LCS. Let's hope it continues. Remember when he was a struggling starter?

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 1 Out, Bottom 8:
Hey Square Face, first pitch to Iwamura was a slider-- I think that's a breaking ball?!

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 1 Out, Bottom 8:
So who in the production department decided that 96 mph and higher deserves a flame display on the Fox Box. Why not 95... 95 seems pretty damn hard to me as well.

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 2 Outs, Bottom 8:
I'm pretty sure anything over 90 deserves a flame. I can't hit that--I've faced it. Not easy. Wasn't it the Rays who drafted Matt White from Waynesboro Highschool? Yeah, I foul-tipped him!

Phillies 3, Rays 2, End 8:
Ok, would it kill you guys to just give Lidge an extra run or two cushion. I mean, my old heart won't be able to take another bases loaded jam. I mean did we really need another Mitchypoo?

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 1 Out, Top 9:
Now, what would a Phillies post-season be without a little 9th inning drama?

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 1 Out, Top 9:
Can anyone explain to me why Square Face sits up so high and smug little Big Head just sits down there low. Can't they at least be on the same level when they take that shot? Damn that is annoying. Why do I hate them so much? Oh, I know why. Because they SUCK! Oh yeah, how about that Jayson Werth?

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 1 Out, Top 9:
Well That Guy was able to erase my last post, which said basically the same thing about their booth shot. It also said that someone needs to tell Big Head that it's an automatic double. A ground rule double, would be if a pop-up or fly-ball hits one of those crazy catwalks.

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 2 Outs, Top 9: Howard officially sucks (right now at least)
RIGHT. DOWN. THE. MIDDLE.

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 2 Outs, Top 9:
Ugh Ryan Howard. Ugh.

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 3 Outs, Top 9:
Ugh Square Face. Ugh... ok, here we go... IT'S LIDGE TIME!!!

Phillies 3, Rays 2, Mid 9:
14 to 1 odds it goes 1, 2, 3. Same odds that Vegas had the Phillies to win the World Series before the season.

Phillies 3, Rays 2, Bottom 9:
Mrs. That Guy isn't even taking those odds.

Phillies 3, Rays 2, 2 Outs, Bottom 9:
Longoria had never seen a slider like that before.

Phillies 3, Ras 2, FINAL
Well, it ended about as ugly as the rest of the game went... but a win's a win. GO PHILLIES!

Thanks for joining us this evening. It's been fun, This Guy and That Guy have work in the morning. I hope you've enjoyed it as much as we have bringing it to you. Ken Rosenthal is really short.

And really bad... despite all the best efforts of Big Head and Square Face, the Phillies still pull one out. This blogging has been a production of Smi Sports. Good night everybody!

Live Blogging the World Series

Yes, that's right. Right here, tomorrow night at 8:00 Eastern. This Guy and That Guy will be live blogging the 1st game of the 2008 World Series. Disclaimer: We're both Phillies fans, this won't be a journalistic effort by any means.

All of the sudden...

...this has become a sports blog. I remember way back last November, when the Phillies said they probably weren't going to be able to sign Aaron Rowand, someone (either This Guy's father or maybe even That Guy himself) said, "can Shane Victorino really play everyday?"

Well, if last evening, at approximately 11:39 PM Eastern, didn't finally answer that question, I don't know what will. The truth of the matter is, after starting out slowly, the most consistent player on the Phillies this year was the Flyin' Hawaiian.

Who would have thought that the Phillies would make the playoffs this year after the offensive struggles they had this season? Nobody--not one single starter-- hit over .300. Only two players had 100 RBIs. This was an offense that was carried (not by Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, or Jimmy Rollins) in August, but by Jayson Werth and Shane Victorino.

I didn't think they would come back last night. I was almost asleep on the couch, when Torre brought in Wade to face Burrell-- I thought it was a good idea. Burrell can hit a fastball-- even a 96 mph Broxton fastball. So bring in someone with a little more finesse. It worked. It just happens that we all forgot that the hottest hitter on the Phillies team, and the only player with more than 3 RBIs this post season, not named Myers, was stepping to the plate. After the stupid Dodger fans have been booing him for 2 nights because he didn't want to be plunked in the head by a fastball, Victorino hit a pretty good pitch. Some will say it was a hanger, but the man from Hawaii's bat was only a couple of inches off the ground when he hit his 2-iron into the bullpen. There was some celebration, but truth is that only tied the game, there was more to be done.

And done it was. It was done by the guy we've all met. He's been playing first on your slow pitch softball team for years now. He admits it-- he goes up there to hit homeruns. Man did he ever hit one. Matt Stairs only played 16 regular season game for the Phillies club--13 of those pinch hit appearances. This wasn't the first pinch-hit homer of his career--heck, not even of this year, but it was the biggest. A three games to one lead is a lot different than a tied series.

Matt Stairs and Shane Victorino did one thing the Phillies haven't been able to do all year. They gave their fans some breathing room.

So That's Why They Wear Helmets

I don't think I've ever seen the benches clear in a playoff game before. I mean it doesn't get much better than that. Plus, who in the world wouldn't want to see Davey Lopes get into a rhubarb (with Mariano Duncan, of all people). Oh well, maybe it will put some fire into the not so fightin' Phils.

You Just Can't Make This Stuff Up!

I was doing a little research on one of my favorite broadcasters and came up with this. If McCarver can explain baseball to brain surgeons, than I guess I am a genius.

Pity for Senior Citizens

Much like you feel bad for the old guy that takes 15 minutes to cross the street with his walker, I do feel bad for Jamie Moyer. I mean the guy has been worth every penny he has been paid this year. In fact, he's been the guy that most of the season has been able to stop the bleeding when the Phils went on a losing streak. But, why did he pick tonight to throw his 75 mile an hour fastball right down the middle. I thought old guys were a little more wise than that.

Oh well, the sweep was probably a little bit too much to ask.

Can You Move That Skyscaper... It's Blocking My View of the TV

Ok, that does sound pretty cool. A laptop in every room. I mean This Guy does a lot of cooking, so a laptop with All Recipes.com in the favorites does make lots of sense in the kitchen. I thought those laptops were for little kids in Africa, but if this guy wants to make his extra bedroom a warehouse of OLPC computers, than I say go for it. I mean it is America after all.

And as cool, as a laptop in every pot sounds, how about having this baby in your backyard!

This is the world's largest LED Tv and it's going on a building in Dubai. 33 stories tall. That's right 33 stories. It will be able to be viewed 1.5 kilometers away. Now, my math isn't all that great, but let's just say that's pretty damn far.



So, today's show has hit the full cycle of what technology has become in 2008. $75 laptops and $75 billion tvs. God bless America (oh yeah and include Dubai and Africa, too).

Simply...Awesome!

Ok. I've decided I would like to buy a new laptop. I don't need one. I wasn't even wanting one, really. Then, I did some searching on this internet thing. It's cool, you should try it (I suppose you already are if you're reading this.) While "surfing" the interweb, I came across--what I believe to be the coolest looking laptop ever created.

See, you like it too! I'm pretty sure That Guy wants one as well. It's cool looking. It's functional. It will have haptic feedback. It will load This and That in the Morning, just as well as that Dell you're logged on to right now. Only one problem: this computer won't be available until 2010. This is the 2nd generation XO from OLPC (one laptop per child). It will probably be a linux OS, which is cool-- because there will be lots of free programs to go on it, when I buy one-- or 6. They'll retail for around $75 when they come out. Yeah, you heard me right. I can buy one and put it in every room of my house for that price.

My question is what are your thoughts? Will you be buying me one for Christmas? I think you should, afterall, I may need one in the kitchen too.

Brett, Please Forgive Me!

I was wrong! I didn't realize that Brett Myers was a fan of This and That in the Morning. I didn't know that he would use my post as bulletin board material. Brett can you ever forvive me? Please... Oh yeah, don't screw up again!

Wow, there's still 16 games left...

Ok, so here's the thing with That Guy and me. We tend to balance each other out, Even Steven, if you will. Last week I'm down on the Phils. They choked, they suck, blah... This week it seems that he's given up. And to even things up, I have to be looking ahead and seeing good things. Myers threw 7 solid innings last night. He only walked 1 batter-- in essence he was the same pitcher that he's been since the all-star break (aka his return from demotion to the minors).



I didn't see the game, so I don't know. However, I feel he did his job. The batters only left 3 men on base. The problem with that, is that they just didn't hit.



But that's enough about the past. This series is big. Let me state it for the millionth time. I hate the wild card! With a sweep, the Phillies can be tied for the wild card. That's three straight wins. It's something that can be done. They're 5 games better then they were at this point last year. They have a chance. I guess you can say I have hope. (And unlike a certain presidential candidate-- I don't see that as audacious at all.) Afterall, they're the fightins.

This Is Not Just a Post About How Sucky the Phillies Are!

Ok, That Guy hasn't updated himself on this hallowed page in quite a while. In fact, if you check, the last update might have been before That Guy got a new job (however, sad that job is). But anyway, I had no intention of making this post about how bad the Phillies are. In fact, after the past few days, I have given up complete hope about them Bums. But, there is just something burning deep. Maybe it's because they have been there all season. Maybe it's because they have a core team of players that had the potential to produce three MVP's in a row. Not that that is going to happen now, but it was possible. Or maybe it was just me being completely stupid like I am every year.

All I am going to say is, that despite 3rd, 4th and possibly even 5th chances... and just when you thought he was going to bring himself back from the depths of his narcisistic, wife-beating, bull crap. Then when you need him the most... he goes and blows up. Well, thanks a lot!

Dropping like flies...

So, as most of you probably have figured out, I have a full-time job. I can't explain it here. That's not because I shouldn't, but literally can't-- it'd be too confusing, you'd all have questions and the next thing I know, I'm talking about what I do for a living and not talking about life's greatest mysteries-- did God cause the big bang? Are there more living creatures in the universe? Why do I have to wait until late January for LOST to start season 5? You know, all that important stuff.

Anyway, back to why I'm writing. This week, 3 people have left my company. Some might say, oh, that's not that bad. We're (that's the were conjunction and not the are conjunction) a company of 21, so 3 is 1/7th of the work force. Wachovia just cut about 1/7th of their workforce and it's a national story. Okay, I made that Wachovia statistic up-- sue me. You may be asking yourself-- and if you aren't, I probably don't care--who is leaving the company I work for? Well, first there's the person in charge of, we'll call it, writing. The second to leave was someone in business development, and the third, nobody that important, just the CFO.

Never a good thing when it's the CFO. Although, I'm told he's not jumping ship-- he apparently had a visit from Marlon Brando. I'm happy for him, really am. What really pisses me off-- all this means is I keep getting more work to do. And what really pisses me off about that (and it should piss you off too) is that I have less free time, which means I'm busier than I should be, and you are the ones that are really missing out. You get less of this! Less of me bitching, and I know that's what you want.

Now Joining Us Live From...

Apparently, I can update the blog from my cell phone. It's like a live remote. Now that's something....