Monday, July 31, 2006

Catfish Split With Greensboro; Dodgers Trade Former Catfish

Go Catfish!The last day before the trading deadline brought some conversation in the stands at Golden Park in Columbus tonight, as the fans watched the Columbus Catfish split a doubleheader with the Greensboro Grasshoppers (Marlins).

More about the trades in a moment.

Game One: Greensboro 6, Catfish 5

The Catfish jumped out to an early 2-0 lead in the first inning when SS Ivan De Jesus singled. With one out, he stole second. 2B Travis Denker walked. 3B Russell Mitchell doubled, scoring De Jesus and Denker.

In the 2nd, 3rd, 4th & 5th innings, Greensboro tallied runs to take a 6-2 lead. Not a team to quit, the Catfish scratched out three runs in the 6th, to narrow it to 6-5.

RF Lucas May was hit by a pitch. With one out, LF Adam Godwin doubled, advancing Luke to third. CF Bridger Hunt reached on a fielder's choice, with Luke scoring and Adam Godwin safe on the attempt at third. DH Juan Rivera doubled, scoring Godwin scores and advancing Bridger Hunt to third. De Jesus grounded out, scoring Hunt. But that's as close as the Catfish came. Greensboro pitcher Bradley Stone faced the final four Catfish batters in the 6th and 7th, recording four outs.

Catfish P Arismendy Castillo was tagged with the loss, allowing 5 runs in 4 innings.

Game Two: Catfish 3, Greensboro 1

The second game was a low-scoring affair. Down 1-0 in the second, 1B David Sutherland homered (his 5th) to the old hot tub stand behind right field.

In the fourth, 2B Travis Denker homered (his 5th) over the St. Francis sign atop the left field wall.

In the sixth, CF Bridger Hunt doubled. With one out, Travis Denker singled on a grounder to center, scoring Hunt, and making it 3-1 in favor of the Catfish.

Starting pitcher Joe Jones allowed one run on 3 hits. That one run came on Greensboro DH Brett Hayes homering to left in the second inning. Reliever David Pfeiffer pitched one inning, allowing a double by Greensboro RF Matthew Kutler. Kutler later advanced to third with one out, but was thrown at at home on a sacrifice fly attempt. Catfish LF Lucas May caught Trent D'Antonio's fly ball, then threw out Kutler at home when the Greensboro runner tried to score on the fly ball. Luke's on-target throw saved a run and protected the lead, getting the Catfish out of the inning with no damage done.

Reliever Ramon Troncoso came in with two on and nobody out in the 6th and got the Catfish out of the inning. He ran into a little trouble in the 7th when one batter reached on a strike out wild pitch, and another was hit by a pitch. He managed to get the final batter to fly out to end the game and secure the win for the Catfish.

At the moment, I'm unsure who was the winning pitcher. Jones only went 4 innings, and by rule cannot be the winning pitcher. Pfeiffer pitched one inning, but allowed a runner in scoring position in the next inning before being lifted with nobody. Troncoso got out of the inning, but allowed a runner in scoring position in the 7th before getting the last out of the game.

As I write this, MinorLeagueBaseball.com has both Pfeiffer and Troncoso listed as the winning pitcher ... on the same page. If I was the official scorer, I'd credit it to Troncoso. By rule, the official scorer makes the call for situations such as this. Regardless of whether Pfeiffer gets his 2nd win and Troncoso his 12th save, or if Troncoso gets his 4th win, the Catfish got the win ... and the split with Greensboro.

Mooneyham's Streak Ends

Catfish 1B/DH Jason Mooneyham had reached base safely in 46 straight games prior to tonight. He extended that to 47 in game one when he walked in the 5th and 6th innings. He also reached on a fielder's choice in the 3rd.

In game two, however, Mooneyham struck out three times and never reached base.

His streak of 47 straight games reaching base helped him reach a .427 on-base percentage, tops of the current Catfish players and second in the SAL, behind Rome/Lake County player Maximiliano Ramirez (.429; .408 with Rome, .605 with Lake County).

Trade News

Some former Catfish were in the news on the final day of the trading deadline in Major League Baseball. Sergio Pedroza, who played much of this season in Columbus before being promoted to Vero Beach, was traded to Tampa Bay along with former South Georgia Waves (the Catfish old name) player Joel Guzman. The Dodgers got infielder Julio Lugo from the Devil Rays.

Both Guzman and Pedroza should have a better chance for advancement in the Tampa Bay organization, since the Dodgers are stocked in the minors in the outfield.

The Dodgers also picked up Elmer Dessens from the Royals for Odalis Perez and former Catfish pitchers Blake Johnson and Julio Pimentel. Pimentel holds the all-time Columbus record for consecutive strike-outs (8) and strike-outs in a game (16). Those records were set in a game in Columbus in 2004.

Former Catfish 1B Dan Batz

The Greensboro series marked the first time the Wife and I have seen Dan Batz since his release from the Dodgers organization on the last day of Spring Training. Actually, we hadn't seen him since last year, but Dan's release prior to the season gave us reason to think we wouldn't see him this year at all. However, after playing for several weeks in an independent league in Massachusetts, he was signed by the Marlins and assigned to Greensboro.

Dan's not been starting many games. His fielding is as good as ever, but he's struggling at the plate. However, he played in three of the four games this series.

He did not play Friday, but played first Saturday. Sunday was rained out. Monday's first game had Dan on the bench. But he came in for SS Paul Witt in the fourth inning, and stayed in the game at first. In the second game, he played the entire game at first, being lifted for a pinch runner with two out in the 7th.

Dan was 0-for-2 with an RBI in game one, and 0-2 in game two, reaching when he was hit by a pitch.

It was great to see Dan again. He was one of the two players the Wife and I sponsored last season. The other, Lucas May, is still with the Catfish, and we've had the pleasure of seeing him all season long. I realize it may seem like I'm mentioning Dan much more than Luke, but that's because we haven't had the chance to see him as much.

Both Luke and Dan are great young men, and we're honored to know them both. I look forward to continuing to follow their careers, whatever team they play for.

Headline News 2006-07-31

From ABC News:
Boy George to Pick Up Trash in Aug. Heat
Paris Hilton gets a date

From ABC News:
Today's Woman: What Would Jackie O Do?
Consensus: Be scratching and clawing to get out of that casket

From ABC News:
Baboons Make Trouble for Construction Team
Sues for sexual harrassment

From ABC News:
Paris Bans Thong Bikinis, Nudity at Event
Miss Senior Citizen contest still won't be televised

From ABC News:
Man Finally Gets Diploma After 70 Years
Had to serve really tough detention

From ABC News:
Man Accused of Biting Off Rooster's Head
Claims it was first time he's had a cock in his mouth

From ABC News:
Mexico leftists choke capital in vote protest
More protesting than voted

From ABC News:
Kenya ex-VP escapes charges over $1 bln scam
Says at least he never shot a lawyer

From ABC News:
Senior Sri Lanka rebel says war back on
Tickets sold, vendors set up

From ABC News:
Iranian Dissident Dies After Hunger Strike
Should have tried the Cindy Sheehan Hunger Strike

Let's Play Two!

Rain forced a postpondment in yesterday's game between the Columbus Catfish and the Greensboro Grasshoppers (Marlins). The good news is ... doubleheader tonight!

It's our last chance this season to see Dan Batz, the Grasshoppers utility OF/1B that was with the Catfish last year. He was one of two players the Wife and I hosted ... and the Catfish fans voted Dan the team's "Unsung Hero" for his quiet, yet consistent play at first base in 2005. It's been great seeing him. Since he's not the regular starter, we may not get to see him in action tonight.

Couple of notes from recent games. I haven't had the chance to mention much, with my schedule this weekend tying me up most of the time.

Adam Godwin, LF/CF

On Friday night, we got a look at why we love the Catfish. In the ninth inning, Greensboro's Matthew Kutler drove a ball to deep left. Adam ran and caught it against the wall ... crashing into the bricks ... then collapsing on the field. A hush fell over the crowd as time was called and several Catfish players, along Columbus and Greensboro trainers, rushed to left field.

After a few uneasy moments, Adam got to his feet, to the applause and cheers of players and fans, Catfish and Greensboro alike.

He stayed in the game, occasionally removing his hat and rubbing his head.

Such heart was appreciated by the fans.

The next night, someone had a little reminder of the incident. Using what looked like sports tape, someone had placed an outline of a player against the wall ... bearing the number "3" -- Adam's number.

Play like Adam Godwin's play ... and like so many of the other Catfish players ... is why I'm a fan of the team. Sure, I'd be supporting whatever team is here because I like baseball and this is the local team. But it's the heart and determination of players like that young man from Enterprise, Alabama that reinforce the support of many ... and attract others to the game and to the team.
James McDonald, P

MinorLeagueBaseball.com has recognized the Catfish pitcher as one of the players "who's hot" in the South Atlantic League.
RHP James McDonald tied for the league lead in strikeouts with 14 last week, raising his season total to a team-high 110. In 103 innings, he is 3-9 with a 4.28 ERA in 24 games (16 starts).
Jason Mooneyham, 1B/DH

They've also taken note of Catfish 1B Jason Mooneyham who has reached base safely in every game in which he's appeared for the Catfish this season.
1B Jason Mooneyham's streak of reaching base safely is up to 45 games.
The streak is now at 46 games, following Saturday's game where he went 0-1 with a walk, a hit-by-pitch, and a sacrifice.

Picnic 2006-07-31

Today's picnic basket of items from my blogroll.



  • Potfry has a transcript from a recent customer service call.

  • Pet's Garden has the winners for the Blogs of Summer: Kitty Kat Blogs.

  • Lawhawk (A Blog For All) says clothes don't make the man.

  • LittleOrangeFox (The Outlaw Republican) looks at news ... and models a bikini.

  • Right Wing News posts the least-favorite Republicans.

  • Redoubt (Sin City) finds meihem in ce klasrum*

  • Jay Andrew Allen (The Zero Boss) looks at publishing a book ... without killing trees.

  • Macker discovers Mel Gibson was just prepping for his next big screen role.

Sunday, July 30, 2006

Some Say No "Basil Night" At The Catfish Game

You might know that the Columbus Catfish are running a promotion to name a night after one fan. You also might know that I'm trying to convince them that I'm the fan they should pick. And I've asked you, Gentle Reader, to help out with that.

Some, however, think I should NOT be the Catfish fan with his own special night.

Here are some examples...

* youre a dick


* promote you personal agenda

You, as a forty or fifty something year old man should be highly embarrased that you our actively seeking the recognition and title of the biggest fan the catfish have


*a sad plea from a lonely man. A sad comentary on the baby boomer generation. don't vent the mid-life crisis on the local baseball team


* like school in summer. . . . no class


* kids should win not old wore out douch bags


* he cuts down the fans that come to support the Catfish


* such B.S.


You get the idea, huh? Some think I should not be the Catfish fan with the special night.

And it got me to wondering...

Are there others that have not weighed in that think likewise? Have others the same thoughts but just haven't said so?

Here's your chance, then.

Send an emails to the Catfish telling them why I should NOT be the fan honored that night.

Just like those that have sent emails saying why I should be the fan that night, anyone who weighs in will be eligble for prizes.

Remember the prizes?

Everyone that submits (or has submitted) an entry ... on my behalf or opposing my entry ... gets an entry for a prize I'm providing.

  • A DVD from Amazon.com. Winner's choice. Be reasonable, okay?

  • A Catfish T-shirt. Size: large.

  • An autographed Catfish logo baseball. I'm asking the players to all sign. I expect most will.

  • An autographed South Atlantic League baseball. I'm asking the Catfish players to all sign. Again, I expect most will. Prize replaced by DVD.


Everybody that submits an entry ... for me or against me ... goes into a drawing. First name drawn gets first choice. Second name drawn gets second choice. And so on. You do not have to be here. I'll mail it to you.

So, weigh in. And we'll see if I get to be Fan of the Night at the Catfish game!

Weekend Wrapup / Open Trackbacks 2006-07-30

Weekends around here are either lazy, do-nothing days ... or non-stop on-the-go kinda days. This has been the latter.

The Greensboro Grasshoppers are in town for a series with the Columbus Catfish. Now, quickly (maybe) here's the impact. Last year, the Wife and I sponsored two players on the Catfish. One, Lucas May, is back this year, but another family is sponsoring him. He's being well taken care of. The other, Dan Batz, is now playing for the Greensboro team. And, we've had the chance to see Luke play ... but not Dan. So, Friday night, we took Dan out to eat after the game. And we found out what time Chili's closes: when we leave. The chairs go up on the tables about 45 minutes before we leave.

Saturday, I had an all-day session working on someone's small business network. Left from there to the game.

All this meant that I was rushed for the last 48 hours. So, I've let a lot of stuff go undone. It also meant that my emails with Genuine were handled via cell-phone, so I couldn't get his answers to the interview posted until late Saturday night. His traveling this week made it hard to get the answers back by late Friday ... and my schedule made it hard to get his interview posted in a timely manner.

All this is in addition to all other kind of stuff that's going undone around the house. Plus, we've got a full TiVo to either watch or delete.

So, I've not had a chance to get much surfing done. I have, however, run across some posts that I found of interest.

But first, I urge, request, ask, suggest, and all that you stop by the two blogs being interviewed next week. Today's the last day to submit questions to Adam (Adam's Blog) by clicking here and of Andrea (Ask Andrea) by clicking here.

Speaking of which, here are some items culled from my blogroll.

Saturday, July 29, 2006

C'est Moi (Lesbiencestmoi The Anti Right)

Today, it's a treat to have one of the smartest bloggers I read (yeah, and she's even a lefty!) taking our questions. Here's Megan, better known as C'est Moi (Lesbiencestmoi The Anti Right)...


Our interview panel is ready with their questions...


Let's begin...

Genuine

First, my apologies for the delay. But this is indeed worth the wait.

Today, we're thrilled to be interviewing a real-life super hero. It's Genuine...


We have a panel assembled with questions...


First question...

Picnic 2006-07-29

Today's picnic basket of items from my blogroll.

Friday, July 28, 2006

A Genuine Delay

The interview with Genuine is scheduled for today. However, circumstances have delayed the answers arriving. We'll get the interview posted at the earliest possible moment.

Again, sorry for the delay.

Headline News 2006-07-28

From ABC News:
Army Dismisses Gay Arabic Linguist
Pink BDUs were dead giveaway

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Shipping Horse Meat Overseas May Be Banned
McDonalds Europe to shut doors

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Lecturer Under Fire for 9/11 Conspiracy Belief
May be protected under laws protecting the mentally handicapped

From ABC News:
Is the Israeli Army Showing Cracks?
IDF to issue belts

From ABC News:
Two radioactive devices found in Georgia: IAEA
Baxley residents not surprised

From ABC News:
Spain OKs Reparations to Civil War Victims
Confederate descendents line up

From ABC News:
Graves Searched for 'Black Paul Bunyan'
'Babe' the purple ox misses him

From ABC News:
Md. Republican Offers Two Views of Bush
Half prefer trimmed, half prefer all-natural

From ABC News:
Obesity Surgery Increases by 600 Percent
Doctors' wallets now getting fat

From ABC News:
Jada Pinkett Smith Describes Suri
Prefers with a white wine

Picnic 2006-07-28

Today's picnic basket of items from my blogroll.

Thursday, July 27, 2006

Evil Glenn vs. The Brewery

A Filthy Lie

Harvey dialed the phone and waited for the ring.

First, one ring. Then another.

"Darn it," he thought. "No one's home anywhere today."

After the 4th ring, the message came on.

"This is Basil. We're not available at the moment. Leave a name and number, and we'll call you back. Or not. Depends on the mood."

*BEEP*

Harvey drew a breath. He'd left this message all morning. Oh, well. Once more wouldn't matter.

"Basil. It's Harvey. Got this little bit of name dropping at Instapundit:

We visited a microbrewery and talked with Master Brewer Al Kruzen and his apprentice brewer Joey Barbarito

It raised an eyebrow with me. I know darn well that Glenn's beverage of choice doesn't require brewing, so he had no reason to visit Knoxville's Downtown Grill and Brewery.

And yet he did.

Odd, that.

Your Assignment this week is to answer the question:

What was the real reason that Evil Glenn went to visit the Brewerey?

Call me back."

Harvey hung up the phone.

It was two days later when he opened his email and had his answer:

Harvey:

Sorry for the delay in responding. I just missed your message Saturday. The wife and I headed up to Knoxville and scoped it out. You won't believe this. But Evil Glenn is going into a partnership with that brewery. He's making his own beer now:

Headline News 2006-07-27

From CNN:
Seattle stunned by 'bizarre' killings
John Byner, Super Dave Osborne sought for questioning

From CNN:
Tiny jets set to be cleared for take-off
Tiny Elvis buys plane

From CNN:
Station changes format from God to sex
DJs still call out "Oh, God!" as often as before

From CNN:
Democrats: Bolton still a 'bully'
Made them give him their lunch money

From WPTZ:
Woman finds dead mouse in frozen meal
Had ordered live mouse

From KCRA:
Car pulled from river has body
Body By Fisher

From CNN:
Senator Reid victim of identity theft
Idiotic statements attributed to him finally explained

From CNN:
Famed hacker felled by the flu
Hit by virus

From CNN:
Pam Anderson can't wait to be wed
Tired of saving herself for marriage

From Reuters:
Police arrest "Viagra gang" suspect
Expected to do hard time

Picnic 2006-07-27

Today's picnic basket of items from my blogroll.

Wednesday, July 26, 2006

Why I'm THE Catfish Fan

I'm sure you know all about the Columbus Catfish running a promotion to name a night after one fan. And I'm trying to convince them that I'm the fan they should pick. And I've asked your help with that.

Well, I'm not asking you to fight my battles for me. I am asking for your help, though.

But I'm doing my part, too. For example...

I'm thinking I can tell the Catfish office to look at my competition for being the fan that gets a special night.

Here's my competition. Look at the fans in section HH:



Well, then.

Okay, let's move over to sections KK and LL:



Hmmm.

Ah, behind home plate. I sit behind home plate. So compare me with other fans in that area.



Oh, wait. Those are scouts from other teams. They're being paid to be there.

Well, well, well.

Oh, I know. They can compare me to the fans sitting by the visitor's dugout.



If criteria is money spent on beer, I can't compete with this group that comes over from Auburn University.

If the deputies follow them out the parking lot, however, they'll be eliminated. I don't think you can attend Catfish games while sitting in the drunk tank. War Eagle.

So, that's my competition?

Heh. They don't stand a chance. How could any red-blood American male picking a baseball fan select anyone but me? Not possible.

. . .

. . .



Oh, heck.

Now I do have my work cut out for me.

I guess it's back to the drawing board.

Catfish Drop Third Straight

Go Catfish!The middle innings of tonight's game between the Columbus Catfish and the Hickory Crawdads (Pirates) looked like a classic pitcher's duel. From the 4th through the 7th innings, Catfish pitchers Kale Garrison and Jordan Pratt faced 12 batters and recorded 12 outs (a double-play in the 5th helped). But the first 3 and last 2 innings did in the Catfish tonight, as they dropped another game to Hickory, 9-3.

Starter Arismendy Castillo allowed 7 hits and 4 runs (all earned) in the first 3 innings and was charged with his 3rd loss of the season against 6 wins. In the 2nd inning, a walk and three singles helped Hickory score 2 runs. A walk, a double, and 2 singles in the 3rd accounted for 2 more Hickory runs.

In the 8th, two walks, two singles and two wild pitches allowed Hickory to score another run off Pratt. The usually reliable Ramon Troncoso continued his recent troubles, allowing 4 runs in the 9th. Troncoso leads the Catfish in saves, but has blown three of his last four attempts, before tonight's 4-run inning in a regular relief role.

On the offensive side of the ball, the Catfish managed just three runs on 7 hits. The biggest hit for the Catfish was C Conor McGeehan's two-run homer in the bottom of the 3rd, scoring CF Bridger Hunt, who had singled. The Catfish other run came in the 8th when 3B Russell Mitchell drove in 1B David Sutherland on a grounder to short.

The only Catfish with more than one hit was Hunt, who also had singled and advance to 3rd in the 7th with one out, but was stranded there. The Catfish left 9 runners on base, 5 in scoring position.

The loss, the third straight for the Catfish, comes on the heels of a successful road trip, where the Catfish won 5 of 8, and 3 of the last 4. The loss also leaves the Catfish in fourth place, now tied with Savannah, who has won 2 in a row.

The finale of the series with Hickory is Thursday night. That's dollar beer night. And College Night. And finals are this week at the college. So it might be a rowdy crowd.

Friday, the Catfish host Greensboro. Former Catfish player Dan Batz, who's picture is at the top of this little blog (the picture on the left, duh!) is now playing for the Grasshoppers (Marlins). It'll be great seeing him again.

Headline News 2006-07-26

From ABC News:
Andrea Yates Not Guilty
Kids still dead

From ABC News:
Research investigates electricity in wound healing
Electric chair cited as possible cure for Andrea Yates
From ABC News:
Ancient Book of Psalms Found in Irish Mud
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Severed Horse Head Found in Swimming Pool
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Pakistan's President Is Feeling the Heat Before Elections
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Lance Bass: 'I'm Gay'
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From ABC News:
'Devil' Can't Keep Hathaway From Nicaraguan Kids
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From ABC News:
AOL Poised to Offer More Free Services
Worth every penny

From ABC News:
L.A. Detectives Search for 50 Women
Gary Condit dating again

Help Me Get A "Basil Night" At The Catfish Game - version 2, withPrizes!

Hello. My name is Inigo Montoya. Vote for Basil. Or prepare to die.Let me explain. No, there is no time. Let me sum up:

So, let's try this again. And, to hold my feet to the fire, I'm giving away prizes. So I'm financially committed to this. No wimping out this time. So, let's try this again.

Go Catfish!The Columbus Catfish are having a promotion where they're going to name a night after a fan. Here's the deal:
The Columbus Catfish are giving fans a chance to win their very own promotional night. August 25th has been deemed "Insert Your Name Here" Night. Fans can win the honor by explaining, in 100 words or less, why they deserve to have a night dedicated in their honor.

The evening will be dedicated specifically to the winner and feature many prizes and special perks. The winner will be presented with their own personalized Catfish batting practice jersey and Catfish cap. The winner will also get the chance to select the music played between innings, be a part of the on-field entertainment, be a guest groundskeeper during the infield drag and throw out the ceremonial first pitch. Entry forms are available in Catfish souvenir programs and in the souvenir store. Entries will be accepted through August 13th.

I'm asking you to send them an email telling them in 100 words or less why they should have a Basil Night. If you want to get really fancy, print this out, fill it out, and mail it in to:
Columbus Catfish
P.O. Box 2744
Columbus, GA 31902

Do this for me, and there will be prizes. Everyone that submits (or has submitted) an entry on my behalf gets an entry for a prize. I've purchased the following, and will be giving them away. Me. Not the Columbus Catfish. But me.
  • A DVD from Amazon.com. Winner's choice. Be reasonable, okay?
  • A Catfish T-shirt. Size: large.
  • An autographed Catfish logo baseball. I'm asking the players to all sign. I expect most will.
  • An autographed South Atlantic League baseball. I'm asking the Catfish players to all sign. Again, I expect most will. Prize replaced by DVD.

Everybody that submits an entry for me goes into a drawing. First name drawn gets first choice. Second name drawn gets second choice. And so on. You do not have to be here. I'll mail it to you.

Additionally, everyone who submits an entry on my behalf ... and shows up for the game ... will get in free, plus get a hot dog and a Pepsi-related soft drink. Well, not free. But I'm buying. So it'll be free to those who support me. My way of saying thanks.

Oh, and if the Catfish pick to have "Basil" Night instead of "Drunk Who Wandered In Looking To Watch A RedStixx Game" Night ... one of the prizes from the Catfish will be to throw out first pitch. I'll let y'all that show up decide amongst yourselves who gets to throw the first pitch. And the other prizes, too. Except the jersey. I think I'll keep the jersey. If it's the blue one. I already have a white one. Actually, two white ones. (Told you I was a fan.) Anyway, the other prizes I get from "Basil" Night will be distributed in some manner among those that vote for me and show up. We'll figure something out.

Oh, and the Catfish have scheduled fireworks for that night, anyway. So it will be a blast, no matter what.

So, if I am selected as the fan and they have a "Basil" Night, those that sent in emails and letters ... and show up ... get in free (I'm buying), get fed (I'm buying), and get to split the prizes the Catfish give away.

Whether or not I'm selected, those that sent in emails and letters get in a drawing for prizes. That I am providing.

So, bombard the Catfish with emails and letters telling them why I should be the fan honored that night.

Update: Helping the cause are...
All (bloggers and emailers) are in the drawings for prizes.

Picnic 2006-07-26

Today's picnic basket of items from my blogroll.

Tuesday, July 25, 2006

Basil and the Catfish

White Trash Wednesdays

First off, I understand Basil's love for baseball. It's a great sport. One time, I went to a game in Ludowici, and they beat the crap out of some team from Richmond Hill or somewhere, 52-0. Really.

So, he and I both come up liking baseball.

Well, yesterday, he started a campaign to get a night named after him at one of his Columbus Catifsh baseball game. Then, about lunchtime, he got a letter from the Catfish saying don't be doing that. And Basil backed down.

What the hell was that all about?

Basil! You a wuss, you know that? That Brad guy was getting too many emails from folks helping you out? And you backed down?

No damn wonder we had to run your ass off from southeast Georgia! We don't play that down here.





When I go over to the Sand Gnats games, we don't put up with crap like that. Nick the Gnat didn't stop and have a beer with us at a game one time, so we kicked his ass.

You see, that's how you handle things where I come from.

And, we whupped Nick the Gnat so bad that the Savannah baseball team had to go and hire Nate the Gnat to replace him.





That's what Basil should have done.

When that Brad Hundson or whatever his name is wrote him and said to back off on the emails, he should of done something.

Well, I guess Basil did. He punked out.

Hey, Basil. Did Brad Hudson make you feel bad? You need to take you some Midol? Will that help? You didn't go and cry now, did you?

Naw, you didn't. I know. But you backed down. And that's now how we do things around here, boy.

That's why I hopped in the Dodge truck and rode my happy butt over to Columbus Tuesday afternoon. Got there late. Cause I stopped in Hawkinsvilee and met this Cherokee Indian chick at the library. Anywya, I got there about middle of the game, and found that Brad Hudson fellow.





Me and him had a talk. And I did all the talking. If you know what I mean.

I think Mr Hunston or whatever his name is now sees things my way.

So, here's the deal. I'm going to ask all my Whtie Trash Wednesday buddies to help out. I betcha they could talk ole Bard Hudnson Brad Hudson to picking Basil for a special night at the ball park.

And, you know what? If enough go ahead and do this anyway, despite Basil's chickensh*t bakcing down, I betcha they'll have to select him for a special night. And Basil will have to buy all of y'all tickets, hot dogs, and Pepsi-Colas. That ought to piss everybody off.

Y'all with me? Let's do it. Email the Catfish about having a night for Basil. And they better pick him for it, too. I don't want to have to kick Hook's ass.

White Trash Wednesdays

Agent Bedhead
Alabama Improper
And Rightly So!
basil's blog
BOBO BLOGGER
Dangerous Logic
Feisty Republican Whore
HECTOR VEX
It Is What It Is
Lost In Lima Ohio
Mean Ol' Meany
Merri Musings
MY Vast Right Wing Conspiracy
Pennsylvanian in exile
Pirate's Cove
Public Figures
Riehl World View
Right Truth
Rightwingsparkle
Six Meat Buffet
Sortapundit
Stupid Random Thoughts
The Jawa Report
The Nose On Your Face
The Therapist
Vince Aut Morire

Headline News 2006-07-25

From ABC News:
Get Set for Gossip Monger Reality Show
To be called 'Oprah'

From ABC News:
Inside the Mind of the World's Most Powerful Liberal Blogger
*crickets chirping*

From ABC News:
Two Killed As Wind Blows British Art Installation
Proof it's not all blow jobs are good

From ABC News:
Biker Gang Auctions Off a Day With Them
Second prize: Two days with them

From ABC News:
Six Fake Babies, One Big Hoax
Wayans Brothers arrested

From ABC News:
Elizabeth Smart on Sex Offender Bill
Seeks support from Patricia Hearst

From ABC News:
Jump to Prevent Global Warming
Pointer Sisters, Van Halen take up environmental causes

From ABC News:
Illegal Immigrants With Fake ID's Arrested
Still allowed to vote

From ABC News:
Israel looks ahead to a buffer force
Going to gym helps

From ABC News:
Tactics of war on terror to occupy Congress
Distraction to prevent them from raising taxes

Not Banned … But Thanks Anyway

Well, the "Basil Night" at the Catfish game campaign has made an impact.

But not a good one.

I appreciate your interest in August 25th and "Insert Your Name Here" Night. I must admit that the campaigning through your Site is a most creative way to garner support. However, in fairness, there are many "contestants" who do not have computers... or friends for that matter. The purpose of the contest when I drew it up was to see who could persuade us the most by simply using the entry form available at Golden Park. (As far as not accepting e-mails goes, the idea is that if you are a fan, you would be at Golden Park to pick a form up. I, of course, know you are an avid follower so I have no choice but to accept your earlier email submission).

That being said, as much as we have enjoyed the, albeit brief, campaign, it will not benefit your cause. I will consider your entry, however not the emails of your devoted followers. The idea is to let you and you ALONE promote yourself and your rabid support. However, please feel free to enter as many times as you wish... though a flooded e-mail box will prove detrimental to your chances of winning.

I hope you understand where I am coming from. Oh, and please don't think that I lack a sense of humor. It is actually quite advanced. I just wanted to give everyone a fair chance by using the same means - in this case, an entry form. Therefore, only those forms, and your e-mail (which is going to be tough to beat), will be considered. As always, thank you for your unwavering support. See you behind home plate this evening.

Brad Hudson
Director of Stadium Operations
Columbus Catfish Baseball Club


The phrases that stand out to me are: "the ... campaign ... will not benefit your cause" and "a flooded e-mail box will prove detrimental to your chances of winning." Oh, and "you and you ALONE promote yourself and your rabid support."

So, it looks like the campaign had an effect. And while I'm not yet banned from the stadium ... it looks like they don't want to hear it.

Anyway, THANK YOU! All of you that harrassed poor Brad. Brad's a nice guy. Mostly. Nah, he is.

Mostly.

Nah, he is.

Anyway, he wants them to stop, and asked me nicely. Mostly. So, again, all of you, thank you.

Still, the offer stands. All of you that sent emails or printed off forms and sent them in, your ticket to the game that night is on me. Plus a hot dog and a Pepsi. That means all the help from Random Yak, Dragon Lady, Seawitch, Pet's Garden, Redoubt (Sin City), plus those that have emailed, and anyone else I don't know about.

Let's give Brad a break. And again, I can't say it enough. Thank you. I really appreciate it.

Picnic 2006-07-25

Today's picnic basket of items from my blogroll.

Monday, July 24, 2006

Help Me Get A "Basil Night" At The Catfish Game

Go Catfish!Yeah, I got a feeling the Columbus Catfish might not like this. But help me out with this anyway, if you would.

Okay, you know I'm a season ticket holder at the Catfish. Have been since they became the Catfish. Which hasn't been that long, sure, but none of the people in the Catfish front office have been here that long, either. So there.

Anyway, the Columbus Catfish are having a promotion where they're going to name a night after a fan. Here's the deal:

The Columbus Catfish are giving fans a chance to win their very own promotional night. August 25th has been deemed "Insert Your Name Here" Night. Fans can win the honor by explaining, in 100 words or less, why they deserve to have a night dedicated in their honor.

The evening will be dedicated specifically to the winner and feature many prizes and special perks. The winner will be presented with their own personalized Catfish batting practice jersey and Catfish cap. The winner will also get the chance to select the music played between innings, be a part of the on-field entertainment, be a guest groundskeeper during the infield drag and throw out the ceremonial first pitch. Entry forms are available in Catfish souvenir programs and in the souvenir store. Entries will be accepted through August 13th.


Now, a couple of thing. Nowhere do they say anything about taking submissions via email. In fact, it says "forms are available in Catfish souvenir programs and in the souvenir store." Which seems to say "not via email" ... or at least that's how I read it.

But I wouldn't dream of asking you to walk, drive, fly, have Scotty beam you over or whatever to Columbus GA just to fill out a form for me. Instead, I'm asking you to send them an email telling them in 100 words or less why they should have a Basil Night.

Yeah, it doesn't say anything about accepting emails. Still, who's up for a gag? I know blog-son Lyn Perry is all up for an email gag. Right, Lyn? So, Lyn, and everyone else, I'm asking you to mobilize your Email Army and tell the Columbus Catfish why August 25th should be "Basil Night" at the Catfish game. Just use 100 words or less.

If you want to get really fancy, print this out, fill it out, and mail it in to:

Columbus Catfish
P.O. Box 2744
Columbus, GA 31902


Do this for me, and if I'm selected, I'll buy your ticket to the game that night if you voted for me. Plus a hot dog and a drink. It's a Friday. And there's Fireworks. Should be fun.

Unless the Catfish front office doesn't have a sense of humor and bans me. But, hey, that could be fun too. We'll just have a barbeque in the parking lot. Or on the Riverwalk.

UPDATE:
Brad thought it was funny. At first. Not so now. Anyway, thanks. More here.

UPDATE II:
Even more here.

UPDATE III:
Heck, if you're up for a gag, bombard the Catfish office with emails or letters telling them why they should have a Basil Night. Let me know about it, and a ticket, hot dog, & Pepsi at that game is on me when you show up.

Headline News 2006-07-24

From CNN:
Sweltering New York seeks clues to blackout
Power failure suspected

From CNN:
Man accused of poisoned handshakes is acquitted
Meant to poison milkshakes

From CNN:
Democrats: Stem-cell veto was cynical politics
Add that opposing war for political gain isn't

From CNN:
Microsoft confirms 'iPod Killer'
Charges filed

From KSAT:
Town reacts to mayor's child sex charges
Prefer old mayor who didn't charge for child sex

From CNN:
Mystery of explosive star solved
Al Qaeda astronomer claims success

From ABC News:
Man Finds $21K in Bonds, Gets $100 Reward
Price of steroids rises

From ABC News:
Microsoft ready to do the robot
Hires Glenn Reynolds

From ABC News:
Timberlake Says He Still Roots for Spears
Invents new euphamism for masturbation

From ABC News:
Former Spokane, Wash. Mayor West Dies
Quahog, RI in mourning

Picnic 2006-07-24

Today's picnic basket of items from my blogroll.

Sunday, July 23, 2006

Watching Commercials

I've been spoiled by TiVo. You see, when watching something that TiVo's recorded, you can skip commercials. Oh, no as easy as I understand ReplayTV used to do it, but it's pretty easy to hit fast-forward and skip them.

So, I haven't had to watch commercials for three months or so. And I've got used to skipping them.

A little over a week ago, the Wife and I went out of town for my class reunion and my brother-in-law's birthday party. And, while we were gone, the TiVo kept recording.

Now, with TiVo, you can check and see what it's planning on recording and tell it to skip certain shows.

There are some shows I really like, like "House" and "Monk" and "Mythbusters" and such. Plus, there are some old "Deep Space Nine" shows I never got to see for some reason. So, there were some shows I wanted to see. But the TiVo is set up to record lots of stuff. The Wife likes Westerns, and I have some stuff set to record when nothing else is on. Like "Everybody Loves Raymond" or "Futurama" or "Law & Order" or something.

All that means there were some shows I wanted to record and keep, and other "filler" stuff that didn't matter.

So, before we left, I scoured through the "To Do List" to see what was up.

I cancelled all the "Gunsmoke," "Little House," "Family Guy," "Are You Being Served?," "Law & Order," "Robot Chicken," and movies and such that were scheduled. So, when we got back from the reunion, the birthday party, and some genealogy research for the Wife, we had our TiVo full of stuff.

Most of it was the Wife's stories. Okay, soap operas. But they are often called "stories" by old people. Like "Grandma's watching her stories, so don't disturb her."

Anyway, she had her soaps and I had my silly stuff recorded. And it took us a few days, but we watched it all.

So much, in fact, that by Saturday morning, we had watched everything TiVo had recorded. Which meant that Saturday afternoon, there was nothing but live TV to watch.

And you can't skip commercials on live TV.

Oh, I tried. I'd be watching some Egypt show on Discovery and a commercial would come on. I'd reach for the TiVo remote and try to skip the commercial. And there was nothing to skip. I had to watch the commercials.

Like I said, I haven't watched commercials in a while. So, I've seen some stuff I haven't seen in a while.

Why is Carl from SU2 building hamburgers?

And who's this Billy Mays? And why does he want to clean my floors?

I can hardly wait for TiVo to have a bunch of stuff recorded so I can skip commercials again.

That Billy Mays is scary.

WAR at 3:00!

If you're not listening to Wide Awakes Radio ... why not? Lots of discussion going on ... and I join the fray from 3:00 - 4:30 ET.

We'll be discussing much of what's going on in the world today ... both what is and what should be going on.

It'd be great if you listened in. It'd be even better if you called in. Agree or disagree, I'd love to hear from you.

The number is 888-407-1776. You can call in now and talk with Kender ... or any of the other hosts. But if you also call in at 3:00 (ET) this afternoon, that'd be great too.

See you ... okay, I won't actually see you ... in fact, you won't see me either. Well, you can see the Web site. But I won't be videoblogging. So, no one will see anybody. Well, if anyone is sitting next to you, you'll be able to see them.

This is where Oliver Wendell Douglas interrupts Hank Kimble, I think.

So, 3:00 ET it is, then? Great!

Picnic 2006-07-23

Today is the last day to ask questions of Genuine and C'est Moi (C'est Moi..C'est The Anti-Right). I urge you to visit both sites today and check them out.

Today's picnic basket of items from my blogroll.

Grand Slam Propels Catfish. Again

For the second night in a row, a late-inning grand slam by Lucas May propelled the Columbus Catfish to a win over the Asheville Tourists (Rockies). Saturday night's blast provided the margin of victory as the Catfish took a 6-5 win and the series with Asheville, three games to one.

The Catfish fell behind early when Asheville CF led off the game with a walk, then scored on Catfish 1B Jason Mooneyham's throwing error. Despite the error, the run was considered an earned run against starter David Pfeiffer, thanks to Asheville LF Cole Garner's subsequent double.

Asheville scored again in the fifth, thanks to doubles by C Kyle Blumenthal and 2B Eric Young, Jr. In the sixth, facing Catfish reliever Jordan Pratt, Asheville punched across three more runs on Cole Garner's lead-off double. With one out, he advanced to third on a wild pitch. RF Daniel Carte doubled to score the first run. With two out, Kyle Blumenthal singled to drive in Carte. DH Florentino Nunez singled, then Dexter Fowler reached on a strike out/wild pitch to load the bases. Eric Young, Jr. singled, scoring Blumenthal, but the attack ended when Nunez was thrown out at home by Catfish 1B Jason Mooneyham. C Anthony Harper applied the tag for the third out.

In the seventh, the Catfish narrowed the gap. 3B Russell Mitchell singled to lead off the inning. With one out, LF Lucas May doubled, moving Mitchell to third. RF Chris Jensen then singled, scoring both Mitchell and May.

Catfish pitcher Jordan Pratt held set down the Tourists in order in the seventh, but was still doen 5-2 when he faced his last batter. He would get credit for the win when the Catfish took the lead in the eighth.

Facing new Asheville pitcher Jon George, Anthony Harper singled and DH Travis Denker walked. Russ Mitchell grounder to short left him at first and Harper at third. Jason Mooneyham was hit by a pitch to load the bases. That's when Asheville brought in pitcher Andrew Johnston to face Lucas May with one out. For the second night in a row, Lucas May greeted a new pitcher with a grand slam home run. The blast over the right field wall left the Catfish with a 6-5 lead.

In the seventh, Catfish reliever Matthew Gomez de Segura got Daniel Carte to fly out to center, but allowed 1B Christopher Cook to doubled. With the tying run on second, Kale Garrison came in to replace Gomez de Segura. Kyle Blumenthal grounded out to short, but Cook advanced to third. Phillip Cuadrado pinch hit for Florentino Nunez, and walked, representing the go-ahead run on first. Garrison got Dexter Fowler to ground to 3B Russ Mitchell to end the threat.

Ramon Troncoso, who had blown three straight save opportunities, made the most of this one. He got Eric Young, Jr. to ground out to second, SS Christopher Nelson to fly out to right, and LF Cole Garner to bounce one back to the mound to set the Tourists down in order, getting the save and securing Pratt's fifth win.

The win gave the Catfish the series with Asheville, and puts them all alone in third place. They remain eight games behind division-leading Augusta and four behind second-place Greenville, who also won. Augusta has won six in a row, and is 22-4 since June 26. Greenville has won 9 of 11, making it difficult for any team to gain on the leaders.

After a Sunday off, the Catfish open an eight-game home stand Monday, hosting the Hickory Crawdads then the Greensboro Grasshoppers. We're looking forward to seeing Greensboro, since one of the players we hosted last year, Dan Batz, is now playing for the Grasshoppers. It'll be great seeing him. The other player we hosted last year? Lucas May, the hero the last two nights for the Catfish. It's always a pleasure seeing him.

Saturday, July 22, 2006

The Big Sister (who's 5'4")

Today, we get to hear from My Big Sister (who's 5'4''). She was foolish, eager, silly, brave (add your adjective here) enough to take questions...


The interview panel has their questions ready...


First question...

Picnic 2006-07-22

Today's picnic basket of items from my blogroll.

Grand Slam Propels Catfish

Down by five runs, the Columbus Catfish put together a five-run sixth inning, capped by Lucas May's grand slam, to catch and eventually surpass the Asheville Tourists (Rockies) 11-10 Friday night.

The Catfish were led by RF Lucas May's three hits, which included a double in addition to his grand slam homer. Also with three hits were C Tony Harper, 2B Travis Denker (who had a double), and CF Bridger Hunt.

Down 8-5 after five innings, the Catfish rallied in the sixth when Bridger Hunt singled, but was replaced at first when LF Adam Godwin grounded into a fielder's choice. Godwin stole second, his team-leading 24th stolen base of the year. Following SS Ivan De Jesus' called strikeout, C Anthony Harper singled to score Godwin. Travis Denker then singled, moving Harper to third. After DH Jason Mooneyham walked, Asheville changed pitchers. That's when Lucas May hit his grand slam to left field, tying the game.

The Catfish took the lead in the seventh, when, with one out, Ivan De Jesus walked and moved to third on a passed ball. With two out, Travis Denker reached on an error by Asheville SS Christopher Nelson and De Jesus scored. That unearned run turned out to be the difference in the game.

The Catfish scored two more runs in the eighth inning, but Asheville pulled to within a run with two of their own in the bottom of the eighth. Reliever Arismendy Castillo picked up his second save, despite walking in a run and allowing another in the eighth, and allowing two runners on in the ninth. With the winning run on base, Castillo managed to get the last two outs to secure the win for Nate Hochgesang, who picked up his first win of the season.

The win secures at least a split in the four-game series, and brings the Catfish back into third place in the division. The series ends Saturday night in Asheville. The Catfish return home Monday for an eight-game home stand.




Fans of former Catfish Sergio Pedroza might find it interesting that others noticed the discrepancy between his performance in Columbus and his failure to make the all-star team. Lisa Winston, a reporter for Major League Baseball (MLB.com) and writing for Minor League Baseball (MiLB.com) noted many such oversights with her report on minor leaguers that deserved to make their leagues' All-Star teams but didn't:

... there is no apparent reason for the glaring exclusion of Columbus Catfish (Dodgers) right fielder Sergio Pedroza from the South Atlantic League Southern Division All-Star team, since he was among the league leaders in homers and RBIs. So, Sergio, welcome to MY team. We are proud to have you and your .281 average, 21 homers and 75 RBIs at Columbus on our squad and congratulate you on your recent promotion to Class A Advanced Vero Beach.


Based on the article, Pedroza wasn't the only All-Star calibre player to be overlooked by a league, but he was recognized by a reporter that covers the minor leagues for Major League Baseball, for USA Today, and for Baseball Weekly. Perhaps he won't be overlooked in the future.

Friday, July 21, 2006

Laurence Simon (This Blog Is Full Of Crap)

Today's interview is with one of my blogging heroes. No, I don't try to emulate him ... because I can't. But he's one of my absolute favorites. Today, I'm thrilled to have Laurence Simon (This Blog Is Full Of Crap) answering our questions...

He's the one on the right left right.

Anyway, the interview panel is ready to go...


Now, the first question...

Headline News 2006-07-21

From WHIO:
Possible serial tree chopper sought
George Washington on the run

From CNN:
Blacks who fought in Revolutionary War recognized
Were easy to spot among all those White guys

From CNN:
Saudi Arabia promises to revise textbooks
U.S. to be called "Satan" not "Great Satan"

From Reuters:
Dog-cooking, tree-taking school-burner may lose job
Told joke that offended someone, faces firing

From Reuters:
Runaway circus kangaroo on the loose in Ireland
Sylvester Cat to attempt to capture

From ABC News:
Like a Party, Only the Guest of Honor Is Dead
Abe Vigoda honored

From ABC News:
Bad-Tempered Parrot Leaves a Bloody Clue
Parrot not dead after all

From NY Times:
Lesbian Judge Fights Chilean Court for Taking Her Children
Bush blamed

From Boston Globe:
Paper details failed human cloning attempts
Michael Moore explained

Picnic 2006-07-21

Today's picnic basket of items from my blogroll.

Thursday, July 20, 2006

Evil Glenn - Superlawyer

A Filthy Lie1985


Thank you coming in today.


My pleasure. Thank you for seeing me.


What can I do for you?


I know you're just out of college and have just started your own law firm, but word has gotten around about you.


Oh, that's quite kind of you. Your reputation, of course, preceeds you. It's an honor to be speaking with you.


Flatterer. Still, we know just how evil and devious you are. And I'd like to ask you a question.


Please, go ahead.


I want to be President.


Of...?


The United States, of course.


Do you think we're ready for a woman President?


No, and that's why I need your help.


So, you want my advice on how to become President?


That's it.


Without any political experience?


Well, yes.


Without any qualifications at all?


Yes.


You married?


Yes, but he's a dumb redneck.


Perfect. Wait until Ronald Reagan is out of office, then run your husband against his successor. Even a dumb redneck will be able to beat whoever replaces Reagan.


Okay, then what?


It's going to be rough. But you've got to stick with him. If he's a redneck, he'll get himself in trouble. Embarrasing trouble. Help him through it.


I can do that.


Then, after he leaves office, you've got to get some political office on your resumé.


Any suggestions on that?


Find a state that will elect someone with no qualifications other than being related to someone famous.


What state would do that?


New York would be perfect. They elected Robert Kennedy when he was nothing but brother of a former President. He wasn't even from New York. Yes, move to New York and run for Senate.


Then what?


As Senator from New York, you won't have to do anything. After four years, unless we're at war, you can get elected President. If we are at war, it'll take eight years.


That's it?


That's my best advice.


Thank you so much. I won't forget this.


We lawyers have to stick together.