Thursday DIY Links

I’m sorry. I just couldn’t deal with this today.

The Rangers did advance past the Rays with a sweep.

Photo credit: Rex Fregosi

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Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago

Ruh Roh. Looks like Billy got out of Dodge cuz he’s got sum splainin to do. https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2023/10/mlb-investigating-mets-on-allegations-of-improper-injured-list-usage.html

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago

Just saw on the ticker that Dick Butkus just passed. RIP my man.

Roy Hobbs
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

That’s sad. Aside from being a legendary football player, I really liked him.

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Roy Hobbs

Yup. He was a throw back personality and “type” that our current society despises.

halofansince1978
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

I was just watching those “Less Filling Taste Great” commercials the other day.

https://youtu.be/V_yuS8txoUU

FungoAle
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

One of the legends of the game. Hoping todays Bears ineptitude was not a contributing factor in his passing.

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  FungoAle

I’m certain it didn’t help.

MarineLayer
Super Member
11 months ago

I signed up for Chap GPT and asked it what we need to do to win the World Series. Here’s what it spit out:
ChatGPT
Winning the World Series is the ultimate goal for any Major League Baseball (MLB) team, including the Los Angeles Angels. To achieve this, the Angels can take several strategic steps:

  1. Build a Strong Roster:
  • Acquire and develop talented players, especially top-tier pitchers and position players. This might involve drafting well, making impactful trades, and signing key free agents.
  • Focus on player development within the farm system to groom future stars.
  1. Pitching Staff:
  • Invest in quality starting pitchers who can provide consistency and depth to the rotation.
  • Bolster the bullpen with reliable relievers who can close out games effectively.
  1. Team Chemistry:
  • Foster a positive team culture where players work well together and support each other on and off the field.
  • Leadership from coaches and veteran players can play a crucial role in building team chemistry.
  1. Health and Conditioning:
  • Prioritize player health and injury prevention by investing in state-of-the-art medical and training facilities.
  • Develop a robust sports science and conditioning program to keep players in peak physical condition.
  1. Analytics and Strategy:
  • Utilize advanced analytics to gain a competitive edge in player evaluation, game strategy, and in-game decision-making.
  • Employ data-driven approaches to optimize player performance and game planning.
  1. Coaching and Management:
  • Hire experienced and skilled coaches and managers who can make smart tactical decisions during games.
  • Maintain open communication channels between the front office, coaching staff, and players.
  1. Fan Support:
  • Engage with the fan base and create a supportive and passionate atmosphere at home games. Fan support can energize the team.
  1. Financial Resources:
  • Invest wisely in player contracts and development while managing the team’s finances effectively.
  • Be prepared to spend on high-impact free agents when necessary.
  1. Scouting:
  • Have a strong scouting department to identify and evaluate talent at all levels of baseball, including international prospects.
  1. Long-Term Planning:
  • Develop a clear long-term strategy for sustained success, not just a single championship run.
  • Balance the short-term goal of winning now with the need to build for the future.
  1. Adaptability:
  • Be flexible and willing to adjust strategies based on changing circumstances, such as injuries, performance, and evolving trends in the game.
  1. Luck and Timing:
  • Recognize that baseball, like all sports, involves an element of luck. Sometimes, winning the World Series also requires the right timing and fortuitous breaks.

It’s important to note that winning the World Series is a challenging endeavor, and there are no guarantees. However, by following these strategies and making well-informed decisions, the Los Angeles Angels can increase their chances of winning baseball’s ultimate prize.

Free Research Preview. ChatGPT may produce inaccurate information about people, places, or facts. ChatGPT September 25 Version

ChatGPT

Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  MarineLayer

Hopefully you didn’t pay much for your new found toy.

MarineLayer
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

Free.

Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  MarineLayer

Too much.

TrojanBoiler
Trusted Member
11 months ago
Reply to  MarineLayer

Clearly AI isn’t as advanced as we thought it was. The Angels are a professional MLB team and they don’t do half of these things. Silly AI.

Twebur
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  TrojanBoiler

I’m sure a copy of the same BS gibberish is Arte’s desk.

And he highlighted Fan Support: 3 million fans…..Again!

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  MarineLayer

ChatGtP speaks in logical, yet entirely predictable corporate jargon. Yawn.

Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Charles Sutton

Ha! I sent that story to my daughter the lawyer. I wanted to make sure she didnt get any crazy ideas when she’s under a tight deadline.

red floyd
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Charles Sutton

I read about that a month ago or so… I thought it was hysterical (given what I was taught about briefing)

Angelstan
Trusted Member
11 months ago
Reply to  MarineLayer

Hilarious. Angels look like they are going with the five starters they have now. So much for investing in starting pitching. They might buy some more relief help. Otherwise, it will be the young roster players and trying to stay healthy — again.

tanana40
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  MarineLayer

Chat GPT’s knowledge ends in 2021, right?

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  MarineLayer

I wonder if, the day after TEAM wins the title this year, CGPT will just say “nothing” if you ask it what the TEAM needs to do to win the WS…. or will it spit this out for them too…

Eric_in_Portland
Legend
11 months ago

maybe Shoey could be the manager.

But seriously, folks, I expect Perry will do nothing until after the World Series ends. He’ll want to know who’s available and who fits the new plan.

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago

I’m not sure they are allowed to announce a new manager before WS ends even if they did have so wild hot plan they can pull off now…. which I hope to God they don’t have.

smithy610
Super Member
11 months ago

Make of it what you will:

Mike Puma

NYPost_Mets

·

Buck Showalter is interested in the Angels’ managerial opening, according to a source, and trying hard to get an interview. The job isn’t deemed attractive within the industry because GM Perry Minasian is entering the final year of his contract. But Showalter wants to manage.

Twebur
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

I’d take it. Stability and he’s won……and breathable all cotten uniforms.

IMG_2268.gif
Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Twebur

Wait. Buck actually listened to Costanza and we want this guy as a manager?

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

Not a huge Seinfeld guy, but Costanza was easily the best character.

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Twebur

I wouldn’t object. A track of winning is certainly better than the inverse, but then again, I’m firmly in the camp that baseball managers are largely interchangeable and Winning vs. Losing is 90%
roster construction & the lottery that is player health.

Roy Hobbs
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

Bill James wrote an article on managers and compared their importance to playing poker. The cards will heavily dictate success but it also definitely matters whose playing them.

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Roy Hobbs

Fair.

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

Old hand baseball dudes that are chubby are impossible to dislike. See Tommy Lasorda.

bigviz
Member
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

What does Tommy think about Dave Kingman’s performance?

Twebur
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  bigviz

kingman(full).wav – A Tommy Lasorda gem: “What’s my opinion of Kingman’s performance? What the f*** do you think was my opinion of it? I think it was f***ing b*llsh*t.”

Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

Tommy Lasagna? You got to be shittin’ me.

Last edited 11 months ago by Cowboy26
WallyChuckChili
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

Sosh: Did someone say Lasagna?

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

Buck seems to bring along young teams well…. he’s “no nonsense” but seems to get teams that skew young to buy in. Could get a worse manager.

bigviz
Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Twebur

Art Vandelay!! (Importer/exporter)

Roy Hobbs
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

I would love Buck Showalter to provide credibility and continuity for 3-5 years while they get the organization on the right track and he could mentor his successor. Only problem, as previously mentioned numerous times on this site, is that it requires a plan. I believe Buck would work well with Perry and, even thought he’s older, he embraces modern methods but also brings lot’s of traditional knowledge and experience.

Senator_John_Blutarsky
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

With the Platypus being a lame duck in 2024, the vacancy will not be considered appealing to most established baseball managers. Perry is not going to have a lot of options.

RexFregosi
Super Member
11 months ago

Disagree- there are just a handful of people on the planet who would turn down an opportunity to manage an MLB manager job.

Buck is as high on the MLB manager hierarchy as is and he would be more than happy to do it.

And I’d be be very happy to have him at the helm.

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago

Buck is old, my instinct tells me that this particular question wouldn’t be a deal breaker.

Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

But Buck & PTP are old buds. I think It’s good to have the manager and the GM on the same page.

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

I’m not opposed to it at all, which is essentially my point over a few different posts.

Managers are overrated. Show me the roster and the health outcomes and I’ll accurately predict Winner vs. Loser.

All that being said, we could do waaaay worse than Buck.

RexFregosi
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

I think I’ve seen they can be worth 5-7 additional wins if they are good

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  RexFregosi

OK, 5-7 wins is not insignificant. My ego is big, but not so big that I won’t admit that I could be wrong…,

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  RexFregosi

Speaking of which, I am still STILL waiting for the Angels to cash in those several win they were supposed to pick up each season by simply not having Soth manage anymore with his “ern gaym dec sishuns”.

RexFregosi
Super Member
11 months ago

under Sosh, they consistently out-performed their PIE-THAG-O-ReUM projectiles; no one could figure out why??

(psst – it was Sosh)

SC_Halo
Trusted Member
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

I like Buck, he’s like the John Taffer of Baseball Managers. He’d rattle some cages and get us on track, just not sure of long term. Maybe not the preferred choice but i’d be happy.

smithy610
Super Member
11 months ago

Billy Eppler has “resigned” from his position at the Mets

https://sports.yahoo.com/billy-eppler-resigns-mets-general-202337171.html?fr=sycsrp_catchall

Twebur
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

I hope he becomes Jerry’s little errand boy with the M’s.

RexFregosi
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

Billy Epp agrees- what use is a GM when you have a POBO who is hiring managers and planning to re – evaluate the coaching staff?

Please explain Grich

Wishing for the best for
Epp.

Last edited 11 months ago by RexFregosi
Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

I guess this means the Mets are out on Shohei.

smithy610
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

My first thought

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

I didn’t consider them to be “in” despite recent reports from the pig vomit corporate media complex.

It’s the Doyers, then then the Doyers and TBD is third.

red floyd
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

But what about Wilson?

JakeTaylor
Trusted Member
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

Wish Perry would have resigned too.

Twebur
Legend
11 months ago

Jerry is embarrassed and made a mistake. Eat it Jerry!

“First, I’d like to say I’m generally embarrassed by the way, at least, that comment and especially one other was received,” Dipoto said via the Seattle Times. “I’ve been doing this job, or roles like this, for a long time now and I’ve made mistakes. I’ve made my fair share, like most do. This was kind of one of those times. I just did a poor job of illustrating the points that I was trying to make.”

https://sports.yahoo.com/mariners-president-jerry-dipoto-apologizes-for-sustainability-comments-im-generally-embarrassed-190952025.html

Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Twebur

I actually understood what he was trying to say with his original comments . Of course it came out as if he was saying “eat it peasants you should be happy with an average 54% winning percentage even though we have never been not may never ever go to a World Series.”

2002heaven
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

Still hate your HS valedictorian and did Jerry and Scott knock over your ant farm? 😢  😥  He’s right BTW because Seattle’s a small market town they don’t have a NBA team anymore and the Seahawks are in the NFL with a salary cap and revenue sharing.

Last edited 11 months ago by 2002heaven
2002heaven
Super Member
11 months ago

comment image
Sorry, but it’s true ask the Florida teams today.
Yep Downing Dude and Cookmeister 💪  Besides FL is the the bandwagon state
there isn’t any hard loyal fan bases there……..Dan Lebatard former ESPN host and Miami Herald sports editor. But none the less I’d take what the Rays did any day over 8 straight losing seasons.

Last edited 11 months ago by 2002heaven
gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  2002heaven

The Rays, and Marlins too, and their fan shituation really is a shame. Both teams deserve better support.

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago

Angles fans are generally docile & boring in the stands, but they’ll certainly turn out WAY more than the slug fans of those teams.

Marcotor
Trusted Member
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

Let’s be real, they could probably outdraw a Tampa playoff game just to have fans look up from their phones and make some noise when prompted to see the lame monkey.

Last edited 11 months ago by Marcotor
BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Marcotor

Bwahahaha, yes Sir.

I realize the Doyers are a sore topic here, but I grew up there and have always had a blast there. The fans are lively and yes, I wear Angels gear at those games.

Marcotor
Trusted Member
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

I’ve been going to Dodger games since I was 4 months old in 1961. Was great growing up with an Uncle in Glendale who had season seats along with ours here in Anaheim. Went to tons of games, and WS games at both stadiums, and have always had a blast. I just can’t hate the Dodgers for being “mean to the Cowboy” (who incidentally gave us 20+ years of shitty teams and no one called for him to sell), they didn’t force him to play there. And the narrative about kicking the “poor people” out of Elysian park mostly happened long before the O’Malley took his chopper ride over the city.

I attribute it to modern thinking where you MUST choose a side and place a line of death in the sand for any stance you might take (and “Bros” with their “Boys” and their backward caps). It’s like a franchise that’s enjoyed success in NY, LA, BOS, OAK, TEX, HOU can ONLY be successful by MLB rigging games on the orders of ESPN, massive cheating, PED’s (Troy Glaus says hello!), and the International Umpire Conspiracy to Only Screw the Angels.

JakeTaylor
Trusted Member
11 months ago

Wow you actually said something that made sense! Good for you, man!

cookmeister
Trusted Member
11 months ago
Reply to  2002heaven

2 games. cool story bruh. fight me

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  cookmeister

Can someone please tell me why people seemingly treat ‘2002’ like a pariah?

halofansince1978
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

You ain’t seen nothing yet…scroll down.

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago

I did, but I don’t understand why. Perhaps I’m just Helen Keller.

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Charles Sutton

Thank you.

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Charles Sutton

True dat. Kudos to 2002 for solid interactions.

halofansince1978
Super Member
11 months ago

Yesterday there were posts talking about getting the band back together…my $.02

Manager: Scioscia
Bench: Benji Gil
Pitching: Black
Hitting: Hatcher
Infield: Eckstein
Outfield: GA
Catching: Molinas
Bullpen: Percival
Base Running: Figgins
1St Base: Erstad
3rd Base: Salmon

Bud Black would have to get (103 losses) canned…lots of the parts are interchangeable.

Angelstan
Trusted Member
11 months ago

I appreciate the nostalgia. But I don’t see it. Perry and his computer I think are in charge along with Arte. The managerial and coaching spots are largely figurehead and personality spots now. It’s a shame but that seems to be where things are going.

halofansince1978
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Angelstan

Statcast is a curse upon the game.

Yep, I am Dinosaur…hear me roar!!

clover_black
Super Member
11 months ago

WHAT ABOUT SAND FROG

halofansince1978
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  clover_black

I tried to think of something clever for Spiezio…assistant hitting coach.

Biggest homerun in the history of the club deserves some kind of love.

Twebur
Legend
11 months ago

Clubhouse music act?

Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago

You Mean your $20.02

I can give you $6.14 back in change.

Last edited 11 months ago by Cowboy26
Twebur
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

Well played…..

red floyd
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Twebur

I need change for my $99.63 as well, please

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago

comment image

The 2002 Angels are the Texas high school quarterback that won state in 1991. And CTPG Guy is the chubby blonde with four kids from three guys and a rash on her upper arms who gives him a handy in the Chili’s bathroom every Friday.

Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago

Boom. Love it.

You have genuinely been missed Gitcho.

halofansince1978
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

Missed by by those of you who hate yourselves for being Angel fans.

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago

I don’t hate myself for being an Angels fan. I hate some Angels fans. It’s an easy thing to confuse.

RexFregosi
Super Member
11 months ago

its like the same with my admiration for the franchise in the Bronx

red floyd
Legend
11 months ago

It’s in my blood My dad was a die-hard Cubs fan. (He passed before 2016).

JackFrost
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

 🙄 

Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  JackFrost

Don’t be alarmed. I’ve missed you too Frostie.

BruinsAngelsKings
Trusted Member
11 months ago

Gold!

halofansince1978
Super Member
11 months ago

If I’m the only fan left here proud of the 2002 W/S Championship…I’ll be that guy.

Twebur
Legend
11 months ago

1978, 2002 called and wants its championship back.….

That 2002 championship is so 2002.

halofansince1978
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Twebur

See my post above…I’ll be that guy!!

smithy610
Super Member
11 months ago

I would always LOVE the 2002 team. It was what made me an Angel fan (from out of the country).

That said, not sure if I would have fond feelings of bringing the band back together, so to speak, to coach this current team. Just hire the best people regardless of the past.

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

Yes.

Buck > Sciosia

red floyd
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

Every time I see Buck’s named mention, I’m always thinking Joe Buck for some reason.

Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  red floyd

Or Bucky Dent?

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago

REC !!!

Very proud.

I was at a party in West Hollywood with my ex-wife and her entourage of gay friends screaming like a loon when they won.

Not sure how ANY long suffering Angel Fan couldn’t be proud of 2002, frankly.

halofansince1978
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

It’s you and me against the world Banned.

Wear my lucky red tennis shoes every day.

red floyd
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

I was literally at my 40th birthday party. Best. Present. Ever.

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  red floyd

Nice.

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago

Don’t get me wrong. I loved winning in 2002. I was also really in love with this girlfriend named Kelly in 1997. Both were/are great. Both are in the distant past. Neither are the solution to any problem today. Constantly bringing either up like they are is kind of pathetic.

halofansince1978
Super Member
11 months ago

At least you managed to say something without being an ass about it.

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago

Eat a bag of dicks.

halofansince1978
Super Member
11 months ago

GOTCHA!!!

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago

No on Scioscia for me.

red floyd
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

But then where will we get our lasagna jokes?

Marcotor
Trusted Member
11 months ago

This is truly nauseating, but cool if you’re making a comeback-special-holiday-warm-memories Lifetime movie

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Marcotor

Bruh, way to stick an arrow in his heart !!!

(PS – HFS1978 is my dawg, but you’re right)

Marcotor
Trusted Member
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

I’m there with most of what 78 posts, and wasn’t trying to stick a knife anywhere. It’s just silly to think an overachieving team in 2002 that won the WS (and couldn’t play .500 baseball the next season), would somehow magically be able to turn around a franchise mired in mediocrity.

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Marcotor

2002 Angels are like the 1984 Tigers and the 2015 Royals. Totally cool. Fun to think of. And that’s about it.

Put another way, it’s been over 20 years. If any of those guys would make a good coach or manager or GM you know what they’d have been doing at some point in the last 20 years…..?

Last edited 11 months ago by gitchogritchoffmypettis
RexFregosi
Super Member
11 months ago

I haven’t offered my appreciation for gratitude for CtPG writers for 2023 yet so here it is – THANK YOU! I’ve been around since HH days too as far back as 2005ish and this was a hard year to show dedication but what doesn’t kill us just makes us stronger!

On that note, i offer this token from my Archives

February 20, 2018 – “Hey Mike, there’s some one we like you to meet”
Shohei had been in camp already for almost a week but this day is the first day for position players. the way camp is run in the morning, early dugout meetings, separation of P/C and positional players, and they were acting in these photos suggest this is the first time Mike and Shohei meet live in person.

Mike hits a few in the cage, then Shohei.

I love how Shohei acts just like other little kids do when meeting Mike or an idol (Ippei too). Shohei is a lot skinnier. Too bad that blonde Angel media rep is in the way on the handshake. No MSM caught this moment. The very last photo is the only of my thousands i’ve blown up to a 24″x36″ poster.

Enjoy – Shohei is still ours till the last out of the World Series.

https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAKyuV

Last edited 11 months ago by RexFregosi
angelslogic
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  RexFregosi

Cool story/photos. Thanks.

Roy Hobbs
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  RexFregosi

My sentiments exactly. I’ve been lurking for many years and only recently joined. Since the LA Times Sports Section that I grew up with left us long ago, I have appreciated the two sites as a morning substitute. Attended my first game at the Ravine in either 61or 62 against the Yankees with Billy Stafford pitching. As a youngster, I was rooting for the Yankees who eventually scored a comeback win late in the game. My dad grew up in the Bronx in the 30’s and was a big Yankee fan as kid but by this time was an Angel fan, primarily because he listened to Dick Wittinghill on Gene Autry’s radio station. Some of you know what I’m talking about. Still remember George Thomas hitting a grand slam and Elston Howard hitting a triple late in the game that either drove in the winning run or positioned himself to be the winning run. Thanks to all of you who contribute.

smithy610
Super Member
11 months ago

Fletcher touches on the topic of outmost importance to fans – why do Angels players seem to fall down like flies during the season?

The players are, though, and they agree that the training and strength and conditioning staff is not the problem.

Five veteran players – all questioned because they had the reference point of being with at least two other teams – were asked to assess the Angels’ training and strength and conditioning staff. They were each offered anonymity so they could speak freely.

All five said the Angels’ staff was, at worst, the same as other places they’d played, and at best, even better.

“Honestly, when it comes to the training staff and the medical staff, I think it’s probably better than a lot of places I’ve seen and heard,” said outfielder Randal Grichuk, who is with his fourth big-league organization. “So (the blame) is definitely not there.”

Left-hander Tyler Anderson (six teams), infielder Brandon Drury (seven), catcher Chad Wallach (three) and outfielder Brett Phillips (five) agreed with Grichuk’s assessment.

“I think they’re good actually,” Anderson said. “The strength coaches are good. They do a really good job of communicating with the training staff.”

Drury added: “Strength and conditioning and medical has been awesome this year. If you look back at our injuries, it has nothing to do with anything in the gym, anything you could do in the training room.”

Obviously, some of the major injuries the past season are freak injuries – Ward, Trout and Rendon – and those you can’t really blame on training. But what about those lingering oblique injuries, strains, etc.? What is the answer?

Start with all oblique, calf, hamstring, groin, lat, abdomen and quad strains, and then add neck and back injuries that include the words “strain” or “tightness.” Using that standard, the Angels had 12 of those injuries this season, which was tied for fifth most in the majors. The average was 7.6 per team.

In 2022, which was the first year for the current medical staff together, the Angels had only four, which was tied for 22nd in the majors. The average was 7.0. In 2021, the Angels had 11, tied for 11th most. The average was 9.8.

The caveat with the other soft tissue injuries, however, is those descriptions are likely going to be attached when an injury is, say, exaggerated for the sake of roster

management. If a pitcher without options needs a break, either because of workload or performance, it’s easy to find some “hamstring” or “groin” tightness.

At least five of the Angels’ injured list placements this year were mostly about roster management, and all were given soft tissue descriptions, a source said.

In terms of all injuries, the Angels had the third most this year, but it hasn’t been a trend. In 2022, the Angels ranked 20th in the majors in total injured list uses, with 29. The major-league average was 32.7. The Angels were also below average in 2021, with 33. The major league average was 40.7.

It’s an interesting read: https://www.ocregister.com/2023/10/04/angels-seek-answers-to-significant-injury-issues/

RexFregosi
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

from what i’ve seen in Tempe, i’d agree with the players assessments that training staff is ok or at least much better than it was.

there definitely was a change a few years ago and there were more specialized exercises and smaller groups with more staff than there was 5+ years ago.

is it enough? don’t know, but it has been upgraded.

smithy610
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  RexFregosi

From the article, this is the present makeup of the Angels training staff:

The Angels have three athletic trainers, led by Mike Frostad, who is in his second year in the organization. Matt Biancuzzo also joined the Angels last year, while Eric Munson just completed his seventh year.

Longtime head athletic trainer Rick Smith, who has been with the Angels in various capacities since 1978, also still assists at home games.

Head strength and conditioning coach Matt Tenney joined the Angels in 2022. Assistant Adam Auer just completed his fifth season working in the majors with the Angels, after being in the minors.

The Angels also have two physical therapists – Marc Ocegura and Robbie Williams – who each joined the organization in 2022. Massage therapist Yoichi Terada has spent 13 years with the Angels.

angelslogic
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

So, we are left to surmise that the reason for all the injuries is The Angels Curse.

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  angelslogic

Yes. The Ju Ju is real.

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

Yeah, but those 2022 hires were mostly Perry’s boys from Atlanta. The 2021 Braves were horrible, that org still sucks, and PTP is just a cabana boy…. right?

JackFrost
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

This is funny. It starts by saying the players were offered anonymity, then goes on to quote them by name.

You can’t have it both ways, lol…

smithy610
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  JackFrost

But giving their names to their quotes gives more credence, doesn’t it? Reporters told the players “I won’t put your name on the report, so just go ahead and tell the truth,” but players said “No it’s fine, go ahead and put my name on the paper.”

Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

So Sam the Hat’s scathing expose is not Pulitzer Prize pristine journalism and Evil Arte isn’t Uber McScrooge?

This is just so shocking to me.

Last edited 11 months ago by Cowboy26
gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

Bu but… truth to power? Right guys? Rage Against the Machine? V for Vendetta? I complain on the internet, so I’m not a soft bitch right?

Marcotor
Trusted Member
11 months ago

MOAR ACCOUNTABILITY!

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Marcotor

I think, if we just hold him to account for one more year, Arte will come out and apologize to us by name for the team and stuff.

smithy610
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

Honestly, I don’t think those two things need to be mutually exclusive. It could be very well true that the Angels are just cursed and some things are out of anyone’s control.

And at the same time, it could also be true that Arte is a cheapskate on the more important things that make great teams go.

Not sure why those two things would be incompatible.

JackFrost
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

Well, if they say “go ahead, it’s fine” that does not mean they’ll be completely honest.

The report would have to insist on their anonymity to increase the chance of honesty. But frankly, even that would not guarantee it.

Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  JackFrost

So what you’re saying Frostie is EVERYONE is lying all the time and we should not believe them because we know the real truth.

Got it.

Last edited 11 months ago by Cowboy26
Twebur
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

Personally I don’t believe any of them. Player protecting themselves, team protecting themselves, press being stenographers. They don’t know what the problem is, I get that. But you know what they say, the most underrated ability is availability. trAdition.

You’re in Vegas, you have $1000 and need bet it on an over or under on an Angels injury total next year….most of us are taking the over.

Baghdad Sam
https://youtu.be/-Ung95ORVUY?si=7eKk-h9kFJu3_nay&t=10

Last edited 11 months ago by Twebur
JackFrost
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

No, that is NOT what I am saying.

I am not Dr. House.

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

I think that, if I enjoy being pissy about something, and then someone takes the piss out of me a little, they are most likely not being completely honest, and I can still be a sad little piss boy.

It’s science.

Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  JackFrost

Actually Frostie, IMO I would find more credence in quotes of players that were offered Anonymity but decide to go one the r record anyways. Especially if the pool of players interviewed is as large as it is.

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

Makes sense. Players and personnel that go on the record typically speak in acceptable platitudes. BORING.

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  JackFrost

Actually, you can if you offer anonymity and then all the players you offered it to tell you to go ahead and use their names. That can totally happen.

Senator_John_Blutarsky
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

Its genetics.

smithy610
Super Member
11 months ago

That, or Mother Nature:

One theory is that the Angels simply have more older players. They ranked seventh in the majors in terms of oldest average position players, according to Baseball-Reference. The Angels pitchers, who were healthier, were the ninth youngest.

Senator_John_Blutarsky
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

Its the logical answer. We’re all looking for something or someone to blame, when the reality is likely very simple.

smithy610
Super Member
11 months ago

Well yes, age is a factor. But the young position players also suffered injuries that caused them to lose significant time.

Neto missed significant time with oblique and back issues. Adell took one swing and there went away his season. O’Hoppe’s injury can be categorized as a freak injury similar to Ward/Trout/Rendon, but can also be argued the other way (that he could have benefitted from better training and conditioning on the shoulders). And you have Rengifo’s too.

Last edited 11 months ago by smithy610
Twebur
Legend
11 months ago

I blame Team Donkey that lets us down…and that stupid “ass” Shuffle Butt. And lack of True Grit.

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gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Twebur

How many sad donkeys do you think Mike Trout can bench press?

Twebur
Legend
11 months ago

Well, I know this. We might have the best Donkey Basketball Team in MLB. Did you know Jordan Adams can dunk? And I think Jo Adell can too. To me, Neto looks like a “pass first point guard” that has the nickname “White Chocolate”.

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JackFrost
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

That doesn’t explain the injuries to Neto, Adell, Joyce, Bachman….

Should I go on?

Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  JackFrost

But I think That is a function of work out regimens PED’s, todays emphasis on Velo

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

Adell & Neto have “velo” ??? Who knew.

red floyd
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  BannedInLA

On the base paths.

Twebur
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

Hip fractures, older players, that does make sense.

steelgolf
Legend
11 months ago

I’m going to blame it on year round travel ball that they all played as yutes, nobody checks the odometer on these players bodies. That’s my myth and I’m sticking to it!

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago

Moar Rengifo genetics?

DaveChalk
Trusted Member
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

Good article. Just seems to keep coming down to the same two players getting injured mid year or sooner and never coming back same two players making well above 50% of the position player portion of the payroll). The pitching decline seemed far more performance related than health compared to every other team.

Last edited 11 months ago by DaveChalk
smithy610
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  DaveChalk

Yes, the starting pitchers were blessed with good health for most of the season. I agree their decline is more performance-based. Detmers, Sandoval, Canning pitched a lot of innings this year and held up relatively well, health-wise.

But yes, Trout/Rendon missing the season since July is much, much different a combo of say, Rengifo/Fletcher missing the same amount of time.

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  DaveChalk

Yup. The gods hating Trout/Rendon is a big issue. The pitchers went full nibble way to often.

red floyd
Legend
11 months ago

Did CJ become one of our pitching coaches?

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

So… ol’ CheapnEvil. This org is a joke. I’m calling them out and demanding accountability. I’m putting the system on trial. Sam Blum, American hero. Never turn down the heat. Got it.

Marcotor
Trusted Member
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

It’s a good read. But it doesn’t fit the narrative of the experts here.

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Marcotor

You’re bringing the best of the pithy sh*t today. Well done.

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  smithy610

Got it. So we truly are CURSED.

halofansince1978
Super Member
11 months ago

Seems the training staff (according to players) isn’t as bad as you all claim.

https://www.newsobserver.com/sports/mlb/article280143084.html

Fansince1971
Legend
11 months ago

Not really a ringing endorsement. The ones interviewed said the training was generally similar to what they had experienced previously

Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Fansince1971

AT WORST

Geez ’71 stop only seeing what you want to see and open your eyes.

Fansince1971
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

Geez Cowboy. Right back at ya! My eyes see the last 10 seasons which have all basically been the same with injuries and no farm system to fill in. Things are broken in this Org. If you don’t want to see that, nothing I can write will change that. If you want to wear rose colored glasses, go right ahead.

Cowboy26
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Fansince1971

If my lenses are rosy then your’s must be covered with a 1/2 inch of salty donkey tears.

Everyone knows what the problems are. Unfortunately nothing that you have “written” here remotely resembles a solution. Just like everyone knew the Angels won loss record from 1961 to 1977 but did everyone exactly know why they had only 4 winning seasons while never finishing higher than 3rd in the standings

All that I have advocated here is to look at the current situation in an analytical fashion and recognizing the differences (and similarities) with past Arte controlled regime. Failing to do so will only condemn this organization to make the same stupid mistakes they’ve made when they switched 4 GM’s over the last 14 years. Fletcher has done some of the heavy lifting in this regard. Detailng the current state of affairs in the organization both today and last off season. And while we dont know for sure what goes on internally with this organization using logic and reason and yes, even math ( I know thats a difficult concept for ya) is the best way to determine where we are heading.

We have the worst farm system in the majors leading to 8 straight season? Ok Great how do we solve it? You want to tank well that’s novel. Unfortunately we have a draft Lottery system and a draft that is only 20 rounds with effectively a strict signing bonus cap coupled with a limited international signing pool program so unless you are a small market team good luck instantaneously shitting out a top farm system.

So what has Perry done to fix it? Lets see . By all accounts they are paying their minor league coaches more thereby attracting better ones. They’ve upgraded their analytics department. spend more on their strength and conditioning program. He’s told Arte no on the big splash while attempting to sign more depth and increasing payroll. The Angel seem to be scouting and signing a better quality of international players even though those players are still very young for their level and will require more time to ascend to the big leagues. I believe their drafts have been better targeting players that are closer to the bigs that are being rushed to the majors because there’s no other latent in the system blocking them. Has he made some bad trades and mid level free agents signings? yes. (as did his predecessors Billy, Jer Jer da Ninja) but has also made some good acquisitions that may have long term benefits ( Moniak & O’Hoppe for example)

Could we benefit from Arte selling the team or at least bring in a POBO? probably ( There are a lot of shitty owners out there like Jim Crane who despite the Astros successes is considered to be a major asshole of a human being) but It is not a stretch to say that despite the organization’s massive short comings, they are heading in a better direction than they have the last 12 years.

GrandpaBaseball
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

Very good analysis. We hopefully have bottomed out and the curve is in an upward trajectory as you seem to imply. I think PTP is the best of the last 4 GM’s we have suffered through considering that Arte seems to have to have the last say.

Minor Leagues cannot be turned around faster because the team cannot afford to wait for either drafted or traded for youngsters to mature. So, then they are forced to consider AAA players in trade or college players in draft. As for the Minor League Managers and Coaches being paid more, I do not recall reading anything about that.

Why do I most of the time stick up for Minasian, because so many major roadblocks have been placed in front of him and unlike Eppler, he has performed well. I like or agree with his moves over 60% of the time or more. I thought being in Drury and Renfroe were going to produce, and to a certain extent they did. I would not have liked being in his position trying to constantly replacing players on the roster as injuries piled up, some mistakes were made in which players to release or trade. Tail bone notwithstanding, players added in the off season were smart moves. One bad move I believed was bad was Anderson, but he ate up inning for us.

As for Arte, he really should sell the team very soon, the sooner the better. He destroyed and poisoned this team to a point of no return while he owns it. He paid under 200 million dollars for the team and 20 years later turned down 2.5 billion for a team going nowhere and with no stadium deal in the works.

Fansince1971
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  Cowboy26

I have provided thoughtful analysis throughout this season and for many years. I’ve provided what I felt the team should do. I’ve suggested trades. I’ve suggested specific organizational changes. I have been quite detailed in my suggestions and analysis. I’ve contributed IIWPM columns. I think you are confusing me for others who just complain.

My belief is that the Angels are not run as a baseball Organization. I’ve given many examples of why the decision making has been marketing based and not baseball oriented. The minor league system and scouting/development of players is in shambles. It’s all of these things and it all flows down from the top.

This team has not hit rock bottom. As long as Arte is the owner I expect it to get consistently worse or at least stay the same.

I believe Arte doesn’t even realize something is wrong. He probably just thinks he has been unlucky just like so many of the CTPG characters.

Angelstan
Trusted Member
11 months ago

For all those that bemoan not making the playoffs, I give you the Rays and other teams that lost two straight and are down already. Their fans are groaning now.

Mikeal1st
Trusted Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Angelstan

All 19,000 of them.

Angelstan
Trusted Member
11 months ago
Reply to  Mikeal1st

Funny. Four teams lost 2-0 though.

halofansince1978
Super Member
11 months ago

Go Snakes…for you Rex!!

RexFregosi
Super Member
11 months ago

its hard not to root for this team.

i keep saying it – Carroll is incredible – and he lived up to the hype in WC Rd. 1.

-the doyers will be tough for them

halofansince1978
Super Member
11 months ago
Reply to  RexFregosi

Indeed, as will the Braves for Marsh and company.

Twebur
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  RexFregosi

Doyers are lying around congratulating themselves, another easy unchallenged season. Snakes need to copy the Padres from last year.

They don’t need to be scared of the Doyers, it’s the playoffs, they always choke.

Go D-Backs!

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago
Reply to  RexFregosi

Not just Carroll, but Moreno, Walker, Perdomo, Marte… Jake McCarthy had an off year but he’s a solid piece. Ivan Melendez is a beast prospect as is Lawler. Young pitching. Plus Dominic Fletcher. The Sneks need to trade some position prospects for more pitching (and draft some pitchers) but they could be solid for a good long while.

gitchogritchoffmypettis
Legend
11 months ago

YES. No step on sneks Doyers! It’s not likely, but it will be really fun if the Dbags take out Los Doyers.

BannedInLA
Super Member
11 months ago

Sort of like saying that you’ll bang the hottest chic in the bar when your the 5th best looking guy and a broke a$$ driving a 2009 Honda.

Ain’t happen’n