Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 13 Feb 2005 07:02 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- bigdaddy wrote: I'm so friggin' bored with this steroids topic, and we've got a whole summer of this BS to look forward to (if not longer.) When you've found some evidence that taking steroids makes a baseball player better, let me know. So stronger doesn�t make a better athlete? You give any athlete the option of being stronger and what do you think the answer will be? Yes, I want to be stronger. It�s not poker, it�s not billiards or auto racing, it�s baseball. It�s a physical game, requiring physical attributes, and stronger isn�t better? I think that�s a no-brainer. I mean, if strength wasn�t relevant, then why would any athlete want to lift weights in the first place. Because strength is relevant and important, for a variety of reasons. I am sick of the steroid crap, too ... but I've about come around to seeing the relevance. The point that it doesn�t help them hit the ball, etc etc � agreed, and that used to be my main argument, but I now realize it was lame. They aren�t taking steroids to hit the ball, a professional baseball player already has that ability. They want to enhance that ability. A good point as well, that I didn�t used to think about, is the ability for physical endurance, bouncing back quicker from injury, etc. And that�s what it boils down to, an illegal enhancement of strength, doesn�t it? If you feel steroids should be a non-issue would you also argue that a corked bat should be legal, and that it�s irrelevant if a player is on the field under the influence of cocaine or speed? I mean, why is a corked bat relevant? The player still has to hit the ball. The cork only makes the bat lighter and the bat speed quicker, the cork doesn�t really make the ball go farther, right? What�s the difference? The player on the field juiced up on speed, he still has to hit the ball, the amphetamine doesn�t hit the ball. The illegal drug keeps him alert when he�s playing his 7th game in 6 days, and the day game after the late night game and the 4 hour party after, but the drug isn�t playing the game, so it should be OK for the player to take whatever he wants in order to perform, right? I think the leadership/management of baseball is the real problem and why we have a steroid issue now in the first place, and that comes right back to f-n idiot Selig, and all before him. All of this should have been handled and in place years ago, and it never would have reached the point it has now. bigdaddy Posted: 13 Feb 2005 11:36 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Stronger only helps you hit more home runs. It doesn't help your coordination or batting eye or speed or hands or range in the field. And even given that, I've yet to see any proof that players on steroids hit more homers than players not on 'roids. Then, there's the issue of pitchers using steroids. If hitters gain an advantage by using 'roids, wouldn't pitchers gain an advantage as well? And if that's true, doesn't that level the playing field for everyone? Then, let's say steroids is wrong, and something should be done about it. Well, baseball has already done something. But let's say more needs to be done. If you test for steroids, then what about all the players using HGH? What happens when the next great wonderdrug comes along and it can't be detected? Where does it end? The answer is: it doesn't. And that's why I'm completely bored with this crap. I just don't care. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 14 Feb 2005 12:07 am Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It doesn't end - that's the boring part. What is legal or isn't legal, and what does MLB determine is acceptable or not. Steroids make you stronger, and strength makes a better athlete. If you can believe that a stronger athlete hits more homeruns (duh), then it is logical that a man on steroids will hit more homeruns - that seems like a pretty basic concept. No, I don't think it does a damn thing for hand eye, etc -- and that is all I used to base my own feelings on -- but a stronger athlete is also more durable and able to recover from injuries quicker, yes? Therefore, all players, including pitchers, are to benefit as well. You know, the biggest reason I started having strong feelings about this issue, is when my son started asking what steroids are, and further questions about Bonds and Giambi, and so on. I think about a HS kid somewhere, who thinks he needs that edge to make a team or move up a spot on the depth chart. That shit makes me sick, and these jackasses we/they look up to are to blame - players, owners, Selig, all of them. I guess that might be our biggest diff in this argument - I consider steroids about as much a wonder drug as cocaine. Black Sox Posted: 14 Feb 2005 08:41 am Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I agree Steve. And the biggest scare is that it could be your kid using 'roids. Nobody thinks of it in that context. When you think of it that way, you want them banned from the game - at least I do. bigdaddy Posted: 14 Feb 2005 10:36 am Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Steroids are banned from the game. The problem is that there are always going to be ways to get around it. As for kids, they'll do what they'll do regardless of their "role models." If you teach them to take care of their bodies and not use illegal drugs, and if you teach them the value of competing without cheating, they'll figure out how to do the right thing all by themselves. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 14 Feb 2005 10:50 am Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Yep. How hard is it to miss that aspect of the debate? Arguing that steroids don't make you stronger, or that stronger doesn't equal more homeruns or better and more durable athletes is one thing (albeit ), but if anyone cares about what young people are doing how on earth could you possibly condone what is happening. It's just like the Steve Howe argument - one side saw him only damaging himself and no big deal. Dead wrong. I get to see a bunch of clowns gooned up on the juice several times a year here. It's common in the big-time softball circuit - and we are fortunate (?) enough to host one of the hottest national qualifiers here in Hendersonville. I get to see these pumped up jackasses perform and rage. I know guys personally who do or have done it. Now you want to see a real joke, check out guys juicing up for softball -- not even "pro" softball, just the local rec guys. What a riot. I know a kid local who is so completely obsessed with reaching the next level of softball that he is juicing for a couple years now, and of course spending every dollar he can find on $250 bats (while probably on food stamps) so he can get that extra 20 feet on his long fly. But I digress. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 14 Feb 2005 12:37 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- bigdaddy wrote: As for kids, they'll do what they'll do regardless of their "role models." If you teach them to take care of their bodies and not use illegal drugs, and if you teach them the value of competing without cheating, they'll figure out how to do the right thing all by themselves. now why didn't i think of that. just say no. bigdaddy Posted: 14 Feb 2005 12:58 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Steve, just because baseball bans steroids doesn't mean it'll cease to exist. The drug is still out there, available to anyone who wants to use it. Cocaine is illegal, yet there are plenty of coke-heads in the world. You can't look for government (or baseball's administration) to rid the world of drugs and raise your kids for you. bigdaddy Posted: 14 Feb 2005 01:01 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Also, as to the notion that steroids help prevent injury, someone should've told that to Giambi, McGwire, Bonds, Canseco and Caminiti. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 14 Feb 2005 01:17 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- bigdaddy wrote: Steve, just because baseball bans steroids doesn't mean it'll cease to exist. The drug is still out there, available to anyone who wants to use it. Cocaine is illegal, yet there are plenty of coke-heads in the world. You can't look for government (or baseball's administration) to rid the world of drugs and raise your kids for you. And again, the point goes flying miles over your head. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 14 Feb 2005 01:22 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- bigdaddy wrote: Also, as to the notion that steroids help prevent injury, someone should've told that to Giambi, McGwire, Bonds, Canseco and Caminiti. That's not what I said. Caminiti - nice example - he should be the poster boy for steroids, and when your son has that poster on his wall, maybe it starts to make sense. bigdaddy Posted: 14 Feb 2005 01:25 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- My son idolizes Jason Giambi, Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa. But he knows better than to abuse his body, and he knows not to cheat. You idolize Ty Cobb and Rob Dibble -- two guys who made a living out of deliberately injuring the people they competed against. I'd rather have my son idolize Giambi and McGwire, thank you. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 14 Feb 2005 02:09 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- You don't know who the fk I idolize you clueless moron. As an adult I now respect those who played the game right. You don�t care about that. I respect the game and I want to run the substance abusers out of baseball and out of society. Apparently you can bury your head in the sand and tell your kid to just say no and probably think Steve Howe deserves one more shot. That�s cool � hope it works out for you. As for the game of baseball, yes, I find it gratifying when a dumb SOB drops a bunt with a 10 run lead and gets a baseball planted in his back for showing up his opponent. I guess you�re teaching your son the Sosa hop on warning track fly balls, or how to cork a bat, or abandon his team. My son loves Sosa, too, by the way � how did the �Sammy was cheating� speech go for you? And for the record, you still don't know a GD thing about Ty Cobb. You�re a smart guy, obviously brilliant in many ways, you should really educate yourself before you believe 2 or 3 paragraphs in a magazine as a summary of a man�s life. For the record, Julius Erving was my boyhood idol � Hank Aaron before that. Negroes no less! bigdaddy Posted: 14 Feb 2005 02:13 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Happy Valentine's Day, Steve. Kiss my ass. Subject: Rocks/Hippos Trade Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 08 Mar 2005 12:41 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- You know, I'm not going to get involved in a critique of the deal. I am challenging the Hippos so naturally I don�t like the trade. But damn it Mike, one thing I do grow tired of hearing is the perpetual blasting of trades. You are the commissioner, and if you think this trade is moronic then veto the damn trade. Otherwise, let�s move on, I�m already sick of reading about it. One positive note, it did take a few pages before Chipper Jones was brought up this time. bigdaddy Posted: 08 Mar 2005 12:54 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FYI, I don't "blast" every trade -- just the ridiculously lopsided ones like this one. I do, however, give my opinion on every trade, and according to a recent poll, people want me to continue to do so. I'd like to see us all give our opinions of every trade, as I think it adds greatly to the league. But if you're too afraid to express yourself, I understand. And please, spare me with the "veto" talk, Steve. Spare us ALL. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 08 Mar 2005 12:56 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- That�s about what I expected. Pretty confident you�ll never be mistaken for Mr. Bonds, with that small set you�re carrying around. If your husband ever decides to start a league, have him give me a call. bigdaddy Posted: 08 Mar 2005 01:02 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Flattery will get you nowhere, Mr. Osborne. Best of luck competing in that division. Wouldn't be the first time you've gotten your ass kicked by a 15-year-old, I'm sure. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 08 Mar 2005 01:20 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- bigdaddy wrote: Flattery will get you nowhere, Mr. Osborne. Best of luck competing in that division. Wouldn't be the first time you've gotten your ass kicked by a 15-year-old, I'm sure. Now that was a mature reply. You cite a trade as ridiculous and lopsided, but all you want to do is bitch publicly about it (I�m sorry, �express your opinion�). You enjoy that, maybe some enjoy reading it, I don�t. But hey, it gives you something to do during the day. Lord knows your employer must appreciate it. Perhaps I should have used the phrase �knee jerk veto� so you would have really understood me. Jackass. bigdaddy Posted: 08 Mar 2005 01:23 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Quote: You enjoy that, maybe some enjoy reading it, I don�t. There's a really simple solution, then, asswipe: Don't read it. I'd suggest avoiding this section of the message board altogether, because -- DUH! -- that's what we do here. Hence the name of the board: "Trading announcements & commentary." I realize Tennessee trails the U.S. in reading skills, but please try to keep up with the rest of us. Subject: Can't we all just get along Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 27 Mar 2005 01:23 pm Post subject: Can't we all just get along -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2020463 Good grief - you've got to be kidding me. Yeah - let's make the best rivalry in sports a watered down politically correct video game like everything else. Selig will step in next and encourage it. Wonder how Dick Radatz would have reacted to this absurdity? Perhaps the same way he reacted to everything else Yankee � he would put Mantle on his ass then strike him out. bigdaddy Posted: 27 Mar 2005 01:33 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Here we go again with Helen Lovejoy's favorite mantra, "What about the children?!?" You'd think that winning the World Series would bring some sense of civility to these Red Sox dopes up here, but you'd be dead wrong. If anything, they're worse than ever. Here in Salem, we're not even allowed to have a team named the "Yankees" in our little league because people are afraid kids will get booed (by opposing players and parents alike!) I can tell you that growing up in Yankees Country, we never had a problem with a "Red Sox" team in our little league. This whole notion that kids aren't going to fight on the playgrounds because Alex Rodriguez and Jason Varitek shake hands on the field is about as dumb as the notion that kids will take steroids because Barry Bonds takes them. People need to give kids a little more credit than that. My favorite player growing up was Graig Nettles. But I never once thought about loading my bat with superballs just because he did it. Radatz, by the way, was a loud-mouthed moron. He was one of the co-hosts of a radio show here in Boston, and I've never heard anyone more ignorant about the game than him. And this whole notion that he "owned Mickey Mantle" has been proven grossly inaccurate as well. He only faced Mantle something like 13 times. Big whoop. Radatz blew out his arm at a young age, then proceeded to spend his elderly years criticizing every big league pitcher for not being "tough enough to finish games like he did." Radatz was the Rob Dibble of the 60's. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 27 Mar 2005 01:58 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- They actually boo the kids in the Yankee uniforms in LL? Now that's funny. And some morons want to dissolve that rivalry? Radatz vs Mantle ?? Incorrect sir. Try 67 career at-bats and 44 Ks. He owned his drunken ass. Your Dibble slap is about as weak as A-Rod prancing down the 1st base line. Radatz is a little before my time, but if he was the Dibbs of the 60s then he was certainly somebody you didn't want a piece of. Do you honestly believe steroids aren't a problem for kids? Really, you still dispute the fact that young people emulate adults, and in particular pro athletes? I just don't understand your take on that at all. They will do as the people they look up to. Did you ever try to throw a spitter, or cut a baseball and see what you could do with it? If you were a pitcher I bet you did. I did. I didn�t put superballs in a bat because I was 12 and I didn�t have a wood lathe. bigdaddy Posted: 27 Mar 2005 02:17 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Quote: Incorrect sir. Try 67 career at-bats and 44 Ks. He owned his drunken ass. Wrong again, Mr. Osborne. Yeah, Radatz was really intimidating holding a lethal weapon in his hands. It takes a real man to fire a tightly-wound, rawhide-covered sphere at another person's head from 60 feet away. As far as the 'Roidsmania debate goes, I think the kids that are taking 'roids have serious character flaws that would surface regardless of whether or not their "role models" used performance-enhancing drugs. I never tried to throw a spitter or cutter, but I can't say it was because of some great moral outrage against it. The thought just never occurred to me. When I pitched, I didn't need any tricks or cheats. But even when I didn't have that ability anymore (right around the time I hit the varsity level), I didn't resort to cheating to get by. (Although in retrospect, maybe I should have.) I'm not sure what steroids has to do with cheating, to be honest. No one's ever proven that steroids enhances play on the baseball diamond. It's not a game of brute strength. Barry Bonds was a tremendous ballplayer in college, and he won quite a few MVP's early in his career, before he began to "bulk up." Giambi and Sheffield were tremendous players at an early age as well. Ditto for McGwire. I suppose you could argue that steroids helped Ken Caminiti to win an MVP, but it may just be coincidence. Plenty of other players (like Melvin Mora and Luis Gonzalez, for example) came out of nowhere at a semi-late stage of their careers to become MVP-caliber players. And I suppose you could argue that steroids helped guys like Bonds age more gracefully. But there are plenty of other ways for that to occur as well, from diet and exercise to legal supplements. Players in general are performing better today in their late-30's than players of a generation ago. It can't all be because of 'roids. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 27 Mar 2005 03:40 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hey, I�m not in charge of the damn stats. I saw the 44k figures reported as well. But by all means, let's get our figures from some random message board. As if just because some ass-clown Yankee fan somewhere states something on a message board as fact then it�s supposed to be fact. Hmmm, that sounds familiar. I see a stat posted on ESPN and a message board � tell you what, I�ll lean towards ESPN. Intimidation is part of the game. Did you ever break up a double play? Probably not. Find it in the rulebook, it�s not there. And you won�t find the old �as long as he can reach 2nd base� crap either � it�s not a rule, it�s a formal interpretation (part of the game). So taking a MI out at 2nd is cheating by your logic, right. Ever play SS and had a runner coming in standing up? It isn�t LL, there�s not a �has to slide� rule in baseball, so do you let the guy come in standing up? No, you put the ball right between his eyes. Ever try to steal a sign? Is that cheating? Pitching inside might be something you don�t follow, but it�s part of what makes a good pitcher. And knocking somebody on their ass is part of pitching, and it�s all part of baseball. Hey, I threw 88 mph when I was 18, I sure didn�t �need� it � but curiosity of pitching and what the baseball would or wouldn�t do is something pitchers do. The splitter came from exactly the same concept � the attempt to throw a spitball without the wet stuff � the ball does about the same thing. No, it�s not all steroids. But I don�t want my kid looking at these guys and asking himself one day if maybe steroids would give him the edge. That�s the issue � and you can argue all you want that you�ll raise your kids right � but you won�t be exempt from this issue. No parent can cover it all. It could be your kid who thinks about that in HS and turns to the juice to get an edge. But the edge he's missing will probably just be because you won�t let him pitch inside. bigdaddy Posted: 27 Mar 2005 06:06 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Quote: But by all means, let's get our figures from some random message board. As if just because some ass-clown Yankee fan somewhere states something on a message board as fact then it�s supposed to be fact. Well, first of all, that message board I linked was the Sons of Sam Horn. Maybe you've heard of them? It's a message board for RED SOX FANS! Secondly, the stats quoted on that board refer to accumulated box scores from actual games from the 60's using Retrosheet. Maybe you've heard of them? The media obviously can't get their story straight: -- Here's an article that claims Radatz struck out Mantle 54 times in 67 AB's. -- Here's another article that claims he was whiffed 44 times in 63 AB's. -- Here's another that claims it was 44 K's in 67 AB's. -- The Red Sox claim Mantle was whiffed 44 times in 63 AB's. It's obvious that these media outlets don't even check their facts before they print it as news. There's only one way to know for sure how many AB's and strikeouts Radatz had against Mantle, and that's by actually going through the box scores game by game. Fortunately, SABR has already done the work for us. Now, you can believe a story that Radatz made up solely because he wanted to impress his bar buddies or you can believe the actual box scores from the actual games that were actually played during Radatz's career. I'll choose to believe the box scores. As far as the rest of your post goes, intimidation is fine. Backing a hitter off the plate by painting the inside corner? Great strategy. But purposely nailing a batter in the head just to get back at him for some reason? Completely uncalled for. Any pitcher who does such a thing should be arrested for assault on the spot. You must be a big Ben Christensen fan as well, eh? Damn batters trying to time their pitches from the on-deck circle. They deserve to get beaned in the head, right? Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 27 Mar 2005 06:32 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for the research. Here, I found one that shows some more interesting data. /forum/viewtopic.php?t=3344 I don't live in the land of the World Champs, as you do, so I'm not real familiar with your local message boards. I think you'll find that when batters stray from the on-deck circle and get a little too close to home plate is when they get themselves in some trouble. As for getting nailed in the head for 'some reason' - it's usually the idiot who drops a bunt with a 10 run lead or puts on a show after a home run -- the ones who don't know how to play the game the right way. You don't want to catch one in the ear, then don't do stupid things on the baseball field. There is a difference in the brush back pitch and a bean ball, as well. Arrested? OK, I want the guy who spikes me at 2nd base arrested, too. You're better off worrying about arresting the guy who is going to sell your kid steroids. bigdaddy Posted: 27 Mar 2005 07:09 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- So dropping a bunt with a 10-run lead is grounds for prematurely ending a guy's career? Now there's something to proudly pass down to the kids. "Now, if the other team cheers a little too loudly, little Johnny, I want you to put a fastball in the ear hole of the next batter that comes to the plate. That oughta learn 'em how to play ball the right way!" Look, if you don't want to admit that I'm right about the whole Radatz/Mantle thing, that's fine. I'll tell you what. Here's the link to Retrosheet. Let me know if you find those missing 44 AB's and 31 K's. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 27 Mar 2005 07:46 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We�re not talking about kids. Damn � read carefully! It�s not up to kids to police kids. You, the adult, must police your child. The punk who �called his shot� in the LL world series � his DAD should have jerked his ignorant little ass of the field. If my kid doesn�t know how to act on the field I will correct him � I don�t need another kid to take care of that. It�s not the same thing. And I don�t teach my 8 year old to �handle� things on the field. I teach him to play right, and I will teach him how to take care of himself. He already knows how to throw through a runner coming in standing up � and you can damn well bet that if Derek Jeter hadn�t been taught that at a young age he wouldn�t be playing SS for the ALCS runner-ups now. MLB is another story � and if a guy puts himself in that position, too bad for his dumb ass. A MLB player should know better than to drop a bunt with a 10 run lead. Maybe his dad should have taught him the difference. So what if your kid shows up another kid on the field Mike? Will you smile and think it�s cute � or will you correct him? And if not, then that�s your kid doing the same BS on a high school or college field in a few years (if you can get him the steroids), and then getting one stuck in his ear as a result. Look, I don�t care about Raditz and Mantle. It�s frustrating when someone can�t admit when they are wrong or others are right, isn�t it. How about doing a quick search of �9.3� on the forum � it�s kind of like that. bigdaddy Posted: 27 Mar 2005 10:59 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We're NOT talking about kids? I thought that was your whole point about steroids being bad, because players that take steroids are role models for kids. Are you saying these players are role models when they take steroids, but not role models when they're throwing at a batter's head? I have to say, you've got my head spinning. I can't follow your line of reasoning anymore. For the record, if a kid on my little league team displays unsportsmanlike behavior, I will correct him immediately. But if a player on the opposing team does so, I'm certainly not going to order one of my kids to retaliate with a hard slide or a fastball up his nose. That sure seems to be what you're advocating here. Now you "don't care about Radatz and Mantle?" How convenient. How about just say: "You were right, Mike, and I was wrong" and leave it at that? You could've saved yourself a lot of time and embarrassment this afternoon if you'd just said that in the beginning. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 27 Mar 2005 11:10 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- You�ve got to be kidding � that coming from the master spin doctor. At no point have I recommended that a kid be taught to retaliate. How in the fk do you get that? I blame ignorant parents for the acts of kids. If you�re not smart enough to distinguish the difference between teaching a kid that adults play professional sports a certain way, and they the player they look up to is on the juice � good grief. Tell you what, you admit you�re wrong about random injuries or your 9.3 bullshit and I�ll give you Mantle. Dumbass. bigdaddy Posted: 28 Mar 2005 12:09 am Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The difference (asswipe) is that random injuries and "9.3 bullshit" is a matter of opinion, where no one is right or wrong, while the fact that Mantle faced Radatz no more than 19 times is a proven, verifiable FACT. You can look it up. You won't, of course, because you'd be left with nothing but Easter egg on your face. But the fact remains that if you were man enough to look it up, you'd see that I am right and you are wrong. It's as plain as the red on your neck. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 28 Mar 2005 12:15 am Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- You know, the more I think about your BS the more it pisses me off. You imply that I don�t have the sense to raise my damn kid, and would teach my kid or players to knock other kids down during a youth league game? That is completely asinine, and frankly I find it insulting. You�re the father who is completely oblivious to the fact that kids will emulate role models � yeah, and I�m the jackass � right. You know, you argue the same way you run the damn league. You�re never wrong, and it doesn�t really matter what the issue is or what you say. If a topic doesn�t go your way, claim it�s taboo to discuss any further. If a poll doesn�t agree with what you want to know, then remove it from the board. Rip the shit out of other teams� trades, then get your feelings hurt when the tables are turned and tear the league apart in the process. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 28 Mar 2005 12:18 am Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Oh, and now I�m a fkn redneck. I live in Tennessee, so I must be too stupid to follow you. Hey, I�m not a Star Wars geek. Will it help you follow if I use some Star Wars terminology? Here, we can pretend we�re characters. You be CMePOd and I�ll be R2FkU. Does that help you follow my logic? Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 28 Mar 2005 01:04 am Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- bigdaddy wrote: The difference (asswipe) is that random injuries and "9.3 bullshit" is a matter of opinion, where no one is right or wrong, Yeah, random injuries - matter of opinion, sure. How about another example - the fkn shit you pulled with your little 9.3 episode was, in fact, ridiculous. And you continue to lack the balls to do the things you should do as a commissioner. You play your little 9.3 trade veto-fest a few months ago, then you�re right back at it ripping the Schmidt trade, worst trade ever, blah blah blah � but you don�t do a damn thing. Ridiculously lopsided, I believe you called it, but apparently it still didn�t qualify as violating the �best interests of the league�. Priceless. SeaCats Posted: 28 Mar 2005 09:42 am Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Kidd Funkadelic wrote: Did you ever try to throw a spitter, or cut a baseball and see what you could do with it? If you were a pitcher I bet you did. You know, Steve. I hadn't ever really though about this until you mentioned it. I was a pitcher, and I honestly can't remember even trying it while playing catch - let alone a game. And it's not because I was some goodie two-shoe either, I just for some reason never thought of it. Somewhere, packed away in my attic, though, I have the spiral notebook I kept my notes on other college teams signs (especially those idiot coaches that called pitches from the dugouts). SeaCats Posted: 28 Mar 2005 09:55 am Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "As far as the rest of your post goes, intimidation is fine. Backing a hitter off the plate by painting the inside corner? Great strategy. But purposely nailing a batter in the head just to get back at him for some reason? Completely uncalled for. Any pitcher who does such a thing should be arrested for assault on the spot." First off there's an unwritten rule, that you never throw at a guy's head or his knees. Reason #1, if you aim at a guys head you will seldom hit him. Reason#2, the chances of seriously hurting someone is too severe. In all the innings I've pitched, I've hit one person on purpose, and he was a friend of mine, a former teammate. The guy had a thing against our coach, and decided to take it out on our second baseman, by planting an elbow in his teeth when trying to "take him out" - put our 2b in the emergency room with a ton of stitches. The next time up I planted one on his left cheek (ass cheek that is), when I saw him after the game. He came up to me and said "touche." I acted like I didn't know what the hell he was talking about. I actually still feel kind of bad about it. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 28 Mar 2005 10:27 am Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SeaCats wrote: Kidd Funkadelic wrote: Did you ever try to throw a spitter, or cut a baseball and see what you could do with it? If you were a pitcher I bet you did. You know, Steve. I hadn't ever really though about this until you mentioned it. I was a pitcher, and I honestly can't remember even trying it while playing catch - let alone a game. And it's not because I was some goodie two-shoe either, I just for some reason never thought of it. Somewhere, packed away in my attic, though, I have the spiral notebook I kept my notes on other college teams signs (especially those idiot coaches that called pitches from the dugouts). I fooled around with that stuff with the baseball all the time. I was always trying to figure out what the baseball would do and why. I figured that might make me a better pitcher - to try to figure the physics of the baseball out. When it got to a game it was back to what I could throw for strikes. The only thing I remember ever doing in a game was if a ball got a cut - I could occasionally line those suckers up and make the ball sail a good bit - then it would get thrown out of play. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 28 Mar 2005 10:30 am Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SeaCats wrote: "As far as the rest of your post goes, intimidation is fine. Backing a hitter off the plate by painting the inside corner? Great strategy. But purposely nailing a batter in the head just to get back at him for some reason? Completely uncalled for. Any pitcher who does such a thing should be arrested for assault on the spot." First off there's an unwritten rule, that you never throw at a guy's head or his knees. Reason #1, if you aim at a guys head you will seldom hit him. Reason#2, the chances of seriously hurting someone is too severe. In all the innings I've pitched, I've hit one person on purpose, and he was a friend of mine, a former teammate. The guy had a thing against our coach, and decided to take it out on our second baseman, by planting an elbow in his teeth when trying to "take him out" - put our 2b in the emergency room with a ton of stitches. The next time up I planted one on his left cheek (ass cheek that is), when I saw him after the game. He came up to me and said "touche." I acted like I didn't know what the hell he was talking about. I actually still feel kind of bad about it. Mr. Glander would have you arrested for plunking him. What happened at 2nd base would be irrelevant. bigdaddy Posted: 28 Mar 2005 10:47 am Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- No, what happened at second base would be just as relevant. It's a friggin' GAME. Any time someone tries to deliberately injure another person -- whether they're playing a game or attending a church service -- it's called assault. Is killing someone okay, as long as it occurs on a baseball diamond? How about hurting someone permanently -- is that okay? Obviously, a line needs to be drawn somewhere. I draw the line at intentionally injuring someone. I don't care what the reason is. Quote: How about another example - the fkn shit you pulled with your little 9.3 episode was, in fact, ridiculous. And you continue to lack the balls to do the things you should do as a commissioner. You play your little 9.3 trade veto-fest a few months ago, then you�re right back at it ripping the Schmidt trade, worst trade ever, blah blah blah � but you don�t do a damn thing. Ridiculously lopsided, I believe you called it, but apparently it still didn�t qualify as violating the �best interests of the league�. Priceless. You're right, this is priceless. It's priceless that you're digging up all this bullshit yet again. It's priceless that you were the head cheerleader at the time, saying how awful it was that I would even consider using 9.3, how it would tear down the whole league, yada yada yada. And now you call me a chickenshit because I'm not using 9.3 to block the Schmidt trade. Gee...why would you want me to block the Schmidt trade? As if we even need to ask that question. You're completely transparent, Steve, in everything you do. You have a big problem with using 9.3 -- unless it's in the best interests of your team, then you're all for it. You whine and moan constantly about random injuries, but I'm sure when your opponent loses their best player in the first inning of the first game of a series, you're jumping for joy. You're completely convinced that you're right about the Mantle and Radatz thing -- unless you're called on it, in which case you'll just change the subject. You're completely sold on the idea that baseball players are huge influences to kids when it comes to steroids, but when it comes to ballplayers deliberately injuring people on the field, all of a sudden kids don't consider ballplayers as role models anymore. Sharpening your spikes in order to inflict more damage on middle infielders who dare to get in your way is "baseball as it was meant to be played", but dropping a bunt in a ten-run game is grounds for permanent injury. You're a real gem, Steve. You must be the pride of Nashville. You and Dolly Parton. Your mom and sister must be so proud of you. Your mom and sister -- is that one person or two? SeaCats Posted: 28 Mar 2005 11:06 am Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I agree with you Mike about throwing at people. There's no telling how many times I got a signal to hit somebody, and refused to do so at the expense of my coach's wrath. The one time I did do it, I regretted it later. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 28 Mar 2005 11:48 am Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Damn, you�re a pretentious son of a bitch. We�re talking about a game on the professional level � that�s different than what is being played on the youth diamond. How damn hard is that to understand? That isn�t a �game�, it�s a career � and here�s a newsflash for your dumb ass � it�s highly competitive. You can�t parallel MLB to youth baseball no more than you can compare the corporate world to a 2nd grade classroom when it comes to conduct and ethics. The game isn�t played any different than it was ever was at that level, except that we have dozens of cameras stuck in the stadiums and everything that any player does anywhere is replayed thousands of times. In fact, as a result I�m sure that today�s player is a hell of a lot softer than the players of yesteryear. I�m not talking about assault or trying to kill somebody. There is still a way to conduct yourself on the field. High hard ones, barrel roll slides at 2nd base, spikes high, plunking somebody, throwing old dumb men to the ground when they are threatening to strike you � it�s all part of the game at that level. You need to review the 9.3 discussions. I think you�ll find that my opinion was that you should have been using it all along or that you should zip it up on ripping the trades of others. And when you got mad at everybody and then started throwing 9.3 around it reeked of a little boy who got mad at his friends and wanted all his toys back. I didn�t support your little 9.3 tirade because it was too little too late. Of course I don�t like the Schmidt trade � would you? What pisses me off is you start the cycle again � you have no problem calling it the worst trade ever. Yet, no action. If I happened to be one of those owners who got screwed in your 9.3 knee-jerk I would have to be asking why you chose to rant as an owner but remain silent as the commissioner? Maybe because it wasn�t in your league or division so you didn�t really care? Maybe a little conflict of interest here Bud ? And I will dig up what I choose. You dig up shit from years ago whenever you choose. You may be the president and GM of Glander World, but you ain�t shit here but a moderator. You can censor what you don�t want to hear if you like � sure � you have the power of a password. Wow, impressive. I�m glad you�re on top of the role model argument. You don�t get it at all. I hope your kids have a good mom, or at least maybe she�ll have a boyfriend that can help out when it comes time to teach something real about steroids and drugs, etc. By the way, sharpening the spikes was a myth, he didn�t do it. As a genius of baseball research, you should know that. bigdaddy Posted: 28 Mar 2005 12:40 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Quote: We�re talking about a game on the professional level � that�s different than what is being played on the youth diamond. How damn hard is that to understand? That isn�t a �game�, it�s a career � and here�s a newsflash for your dumb ass � it�s highly competitive. "Highly competitive?" Like, say, a recreational softball league? Here's a quote from your "Know Thy Enemy" interview: Quote: I had some jackass stretch a single into a double in a softball game about 5 years ago, when his club was up about 20 runs late in a game. The next hitter popped to short, where I fielded the ball, and the jerk had taken 2 steps off 2nd base, then returned to the bag with his back to me after I fielded the pop. Gee, I thought I could catch him off the bag, so I wound up and pegged him square in his back. He pointed at me, I told him to keep his ass on 1st base next time. I think Dibbs would have been proud. Nice. I took your advice and re-read the thread on 9.3. Here's another quote from you: Quote: Mike, you need to swallow your pride and get off this 9.3 bullshit. It's way too late in the game to start throwing 9.3 around now, compared to the trades that have been allowed in the past. 9.3 has already been established as toothless. 'Nuff said? I've never kicked anyone out of the league just for being an asshole, Steve, but I have to say you're getting damn close. SeaCats Posted: 28 Mar 2005 02:16 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Secondly, the stats quoted on that board refer to accumulated box scores from actual games from the 60's using Retrosheet. Maybe you've heard of them? " This Radatz-Mantle stuff intrigued me (being a big Mickey-buff), so I went to Retrosheet. There's one problem with posting stats based on Retrosheet. The problem being that Retrosheet doesn't have all the boxes from Radatz career. Unless I'm missing something, 1962 and 1964 are not represented. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 28 Mar 2005 02:24 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SeaCats wrote: "Secondly, the stats quoted on that board refer to accumulated box scores from actual games from the 60's using Retrosheet. Maybe you've heard of them? " This Radatz-Mantle stuff intrigued me (being a big Mickey-buff), so I went to Retrosheet. There's one problem with posting stats based on Retrosheet. The problem being that Retrosheet doesn't have all the boxes from Radatz career. Unless I'm missing something, 1962 and 1964 are not represented. Well how about that? Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 28 Mar 2005 02:26 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rec softball � so what? What does that have to do with anything? It�s always a good idea, however, to know your enemy. 9.3 � you pull a single quote out and want to make it mean what you wish? That was a direct result of when you were crying and collecting your toys back. Nobody likes my trade, so I will punish everyone. Give me a break. You acted like a clown. And don�t threaten me, pal � I�m not your Andy Lurie. bigdaddy Posted: 28 Mar 2005 02:35 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I can assure you it's not a threat. I'm done with this ridiculous debate (or argument or whatever you want to call it.) Either drop it, or I drop you. End of story. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 28 Mar 2005 05:17 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Well, CMePOd, you�ve finally lost it. You really need to get a grip on your ego. And try to see if your manhood is still there while you�re searching for the right grip. You�re a fantasy league commissioner, and not even a real good one at that. You moderate a message board. This is earth, it isn�t a gay galaxy far far away and it isn�t GlanderWorld where your kids will never smoke pot or take steroids. You can�t dictate here what people can or can�t discuss. I will continue to talk about whatever the hell I want to talk about. The fact remains that you blew 9.3, you don�t know when to use it and when not to, and you can�t begin to recognize your deficiencies and conflict of interest. You, sir, are full of shit. R2FkU bigdaddy Posted: 28 Mar 2005 05:21 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- And people say that I just don't know when to quit? Steve, I gave you a chance to shut the hell up, and you couldn't do it. So you're out. I'm invoking the Sakolsky Clause of Rule 20.1. Effective immediately, you're done. Good bye. Have a nice life. Or don't. At this point, I couldn't give a rat's ass. Mike S./Rocks Posted: 28 Mar 2005 06:11 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Looks like you two should have shaken hands before this thread started. A couple of stubborn idiots. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 28 Mar 2005 08:23 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- bigdaddy wrote: And people say that I just don't know when to quit? Steve, I gave you a chance to shut the hell up, and you couldn't do it. So you're out. I'm invoking the Sakolsky Clause of Rule 20.1. Effective immediately, you're done. Good bye. Have a nice life. Or don't. At this point, I couldn't give a rat's ass. Well, good for you Mike. The bravery of being out of range, indeed. You incompetent fk. I love the guys in this league, but you sir, are a complete piece of shit. Fk you and your fantasy world. You think you�re fkng around with Andy Lurie here? Think again. You love to mock me and liken me to Ty Cobb. Well, here is how we do things way down here in redneck country. We don�t hide behind computers. Behind a computer, you might be a big man, like your son juiced up on steroids in 10 years. Mr. Cobb knew one way to handle a son of a bitch like you, and in his name, I am going to whip your fkn ass. Count on it fkface. Stick this little world of yours up your tight ass. bigdaddy Posted: 28 Mar 2005 11:37 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Just FYI to the rest of the league, I'm locking this thread, and I've banned Steve's IP from the forum and removed his user account. Subject: Please welcome (back) Paul Marazita! bigdaddy Posted: 30 Mar 2005 11:22 am Post subject: Please welcome (back) Paul Marazita! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Effective immediately, Paul Marazita will be taking over the Nashville Funkadelic franchise. Paul didn't leave here on the best of terms, I realize, but we've had several conversations over the past few weeks, and I believe he's ready for a fresh start. Please take some time to welcome him back into the league. CyberSox Posted: 30 Mar 2005 11:32 am Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It reminds of WWE... Jim Ross: "Oh my god! That's Marazita's music!!" Welcome back Paulie! Glad to have you over in the Eck League now! Law Dogs Posted: 30 Mar 2005 12:08 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hmmm.... I don't feel any disturbance in the force. Wait a minute, I wouldn't, I'm not a Jedi. Tom...can you tell me if you feel the presence of Lord Vador? JohnnyBo Posted: 30 Mar 2005 12:10 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Holy Bombshell ! Welcome back Lord Marazita (assuming this isn't Glander Aprilfoolery) ! PMarazita Posted: 30 Mar 2005 12:25 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- First, I would like to thank Michael for allowing me back into the league. I know that we didn't part on the best of terms, but over the past several months I have had a chance to think long and hard about my experience in this league, and reflect upon the events that led to my resignation, and I have come to realize certain things about myself and this little hobby of ours. Michael and I have talked extensively off-line, but I just want to let you all know where I stand. From my standpoint, my experience in this league began a downhill slide after my victory in the 2003 World Series. As most of you remember, I took a great deal of heat over my decision to start Clay Condrey in that series. At the time, I felt it was a perfectly legitimate decision, given that it was perfectly legal and others were starting similar pitchers. I felt the attacks reached a personal level by questioning my ethics. Looking back, I now realize that the criticism was somewhat justified. While using Condrey may have been legal in the strictest sense, we did have rules in place to bar short-usage pitchers from starting in the playoffs. I found a loophole and exploited it, in order to win at any cost. Unfortunately, the cost was my pride and the legitimacy of my trophy. For that, I apologize to Tom and the rest of the league. Needless to say, I was a bit defensive when the issue first arose, and rather than listen to what Michael and some of the others were trying to tell me, I went into attack mode. What can I say? It's the Sicilian in me. Now, I realize what you all were trying to tell me so long ago, and I see your point. Mea culpa. I have also come to realize that the criticism that I earned after a few of my more lopsided trades of the past several years was not specifically directed toward me with any unusual malice or venom. I now realize that this criticism was not solely directed toward me, even though it certainly felt as though I was being singled out at the time. I now realize that every trade is criticized, both by Michael and several others in the league, and we all come under the gun at one time or another. At the time, I felt these attacks were made personal, but after having had the chance to review what was written, I now understand that the focus of the criticism was on the trades and not my character, and as such, I may have overreacted. Again, I apologize for that. The "straw that broke the camel's back," if you will, was the reaction to my trade with Phil Geisel. Though I still firmly believe that Edmonds was a great hitter, I now realize, looking back, that he was not worth anywhere near $11.5 million at that time. I knew that he wasn't worth that salary, but I was deperate to free up some money before the draft, and Phil was the only person willing to take it. The fact that I convinced him to throw in Jerome Williams and Carlos Baerga was just icing on the cake. I saw the opportunity to go for the jugular and I went for it. It is how I have always been conditioned to compete. However, it is not something that one friend should do to another in a friendly competition such as this one. In making that trade, it's possible that I took advantage of my friendship with Phil. I have apologized to Phil privately, but I just want to state publicly that I am sorry for taking advantage of my friend's trust and naivete. I assure you it will not happen again. In the grand scheme of things, I now realize that this is just a game, and I was probably treating it a little more seriously than I should have. In case you haven't noticed, I tend to be a bit competitive; and sometimes, in the heat of battle, I get a little carried away. From now on, I will try my best to remember that in a competition like this, where the only thing at stake is pride, it really isn't whether you win or lose, but how you play the game. I look forward to getting a fresh start in this league, and I look forward to proving to myself -- and to all of you -- that I can win without bending the rules or taking advantage of my friends. I enjoyed this hobby immensely, and it wasn't until I was away from it for a while that I realized just how much I enjoyed it. I believe that relocating to the Eck League, where I can escape from my rivalry with the Cowtippers, and where I won't be ostracized over my preference to play against the computer manager, will be a beneficial change of scenery. Needless to say, I enjoyed competing against all of you as well, and I look forward to competing against you all once again. P.S. -- Bobby, you're going down! Sphinx Posted: 30 Mar 2005 12:32 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Welcome back Paulie!!! Except now us Eck leaguers will have to deal with both Tom & Paul. Ridgebacks Posted: 30 Mar 2005 12:34 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I am SOOOOO calling "bullshit"!!!! Black Sox Posted: 30 Mar 2005 01:38 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WOW! Who woulda thunk? Well, welcome back Paul. Although I would prefer you were in the Ozzie League, but at least you are not in my division. BC_Jamboree Posted: 30 Mar 2005 01:45 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I think I am with Tom.... Is this really happening? C'Mon, we are WAY too close to April Fool's and remember when we all had the last laugh last year? I think the Commish is getting a jump on us. I am having doubts that Steve was even booted now.... -- A torrid, name-calling debate leads to instant league ejection -- Mike says "Don't play any games yet vs. Predators MP" -- Paul takes full responsibility for all previous conflict -- Paul has to create a new Message board ID? Why can't he use his old one...unless its really not him...... If it is true, welcome back Paul!!!! But, hmmm....... R�che Posted: 30 Mar 2005 01:46 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Uhhhhh...check your calendars guys. novamustangs Posted: 30 Mar 2005 01:54 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Yeah I'm not believing this either. While it would be nice to have Paulie back in the league, I can't imagine this is actually happening. In questioning the whole Steve thing.... wasn't it Steve who planned the whole April Fools thing last year? bigdaddy Posted: 30 Mar 2005 02:21 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Well, it's interesting to play this game, so I'll play along. Quote: -- A torrid, name-calling debate leads to instant league ejection Instant? I'd already given Steve WAY too much rope, and let him get away with a lot of name-calling long before our latest blow-out. I should've booted him out a long time ago, IMHO. Quote: -- Mike says "Don't play any games yet vs. Predators MP" I say that whenever any new owner comes into the league. Why play against Steve's MP when Marazita should be able to set his own MP and play the games himself? Quote: -- Paul takes full responsibility for all previous conflict I admire Paul for stepping forward, being a man, and admitting his past mistakes. It took a lot of guts for him to do that, and it speaks volumes about his character. He's validated why I became friends with him in the first place. Quote: -- Paul has to create a new Message board ID? Why can't he use his old one...unless its really not him...... I banned his old ID from the forum when he left the league. I guess we'll all have to wait until April 1st to find out if this is a joke, but I'm telling you it's not. By the way, I know you all received that e-mail from Steve the other day. I just want to follow up by mentioning that he sent me an e-mail as well. It was a confirmation for a reservation he made to the Sheraton Suites hotel in Philadelphia during BDBL Weekend. I really hope that was a joke. Law Dogs Posted: 30 Mar 2005 02:37 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I seriously doubt Paul would admit to anything. I do give you credit for trying your best to immitate on how he writes his posts. Smells to much like Glander fish to be real. Mike you should of tried this few weeks ago or later in the season, but April fool's jokes have become a big thing in this league. It was a nice try, but I think we are all on to you. A+ for effort between you and Steve!!! bigdaddy Posted: 30 Mar 2005 03:00 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Oh, all right... The entire thing is a hoax: the arguments Steve and I have been staging on the board for the past several weeks, our latest fight, his banishment from the league, Marazita's re-entrance, Steve's physical threats... all a joke. After last year's league-wide prank, I have to say REVENGE IS SWEET! All the credit for this one goes to Steve, though I wish I could claim credit for his genius. He hatched this plot weeks -- if not months -- ago. I also have to say that this is the last prank I pull for quite a long time. I just don't have the heart to do it. I'm a terrible liar, and I feel too much pressure trying to pull off something like this. I especially feel terrible about upsetting a few of you to the point where you were genuinely concerned for my safety. Even though none of this was real, I can't tell you how much I appreciate your concern. So...HAPPY APRIL FOOL'S, EVERYONE! Ridgebacks Posted: 30 Mar 2005 03:04 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- UGH! I have to admit, that was very well done. The e-mail you sent with Steve's confirmation was a nice touch and I totally bought it. The scary thing is that I believed Steve would threaten you BEFORE I'd believe Marazita would apologize for the Condrey thing! Ha, ha, ha!!! bigdaddy Posted: 30 Mar 2005 03:06 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Did you forward that e-mail to anyone? I was hoping you'd share it with a few people and it would spread like wildfire. novamustangs Posted: 30 Mar 2005 03:06 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I think it's going to be pretty hard to pull something these days. Frankly, just doing the Steve thing alone would have had everyone fooled, but the Marazita thing just went way to far to be believable. Nice work on the fight though.... very realistic SeaCats Posted: 30 Mar 2005 03:09 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I knew it... of course it was minutes after I sent a farewell email to Steve. But yeah, I called it. Ridgebacks Posted: 30 Mar 2005 03:09 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- bigdaddy wrote: Did you forward that e-mail to anyone? I was hoping you'd share it with a few people and it would spread like wildfire. No, I didn't want to freak anyone out!!! Though I did mention it to Chamra. Instead I was thinking, "hmmm, this should be a good fight. One big guy from Tennessee against 8 fantasy baseball geeks. Maybe I'll start lifting again." bigdaddy Posted: 30 Mar 2005 03:11 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- That was all done by design, Tony. The plan was to make it more and more unbelievable with each day until the league couldn't help but question its authenticity. I almost didn't do the Marazita part of the prank. My "Plan B" was to introduce my nine-year-old son as Steve's replacment. I didn't know which one would be more outrageous. Steve thought Marazita was funnier, so I went with that one. Marazita's post was over-the-top by design as well. I knew it would be hard to believe, but that's what made it so funny. I only regret that Steve isn't able to share this today, as he's out of town. I was hoping to wait until April 1st to reveal this, but it got to the point where there was no reason to keep it going any further. Badger Posted: 30 Mar 2005 03:12 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I didn't believe the whole Paul being back thing for one second. But I was wondering why Steve's user wasn't removed from the Memberlist. Never put it all together that they were both related. Very nice! bigdaddy Posted: 30 Mar 2005 03:12 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Quote: I knew it... of course it was minutes after I sent a farewell email to Steve. But yeah, I called it. If it weren't for you, Tony, I think more people would have believed it for a longer period of time! Damn you... bigdaddy Posted: 30 Mar 2005 03:14 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Quote: No, I didn't want to freak anyone out!!! Though I did mention it to Chamra. For those of you who weren't in on that one, Steve actually made a reservation at the hotel in Philly during BDBL Weekend and forwarded it to me along with a threatening note. It was pretty funny until I realized a few people were taking it very seriously. bigdaddy Posted: 30 Mar 2005 03:20 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I just realized that Jeff missed out on all of this. Damn. Shark Posted: 30 Mar 2005 03:20 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- OK, you got me. I too sent a nice goodbye email to Steve. CyberSox Posted: 30 Mar 2005 03:20 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Well, I have to be a man and say I bought the whole thing. I knew that April 1 was around the corner, but I figured being two days away that someone wouldn't try to stage one that far in advance. When the mention of Paul coming back was made, I found it hard to believe, but stranger things have happened. I didn't know Paul well, so I didn't know if he was capable of that or not. But the fight with Steve was totally realistic. bigdaddy Posted: 30 Mar 2005 03:21 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Quote: OK, you got me. I too sent a nice goodbye email to Steve. Nice to know that all of you guys are sending kind-hearted farewells to the guy that threatened me with bodily harm! With friends like you... skizm Posted: 30 Mar 2005 03:37 pm Post subject: Andy Kaufman is smiling -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I started writing a response to Steve after he sent the email out, but saved it to edit later in the day. Then realized 4/1 was around the corner and started to suspect. The fight was perfectly believable. But once I started thinking about it, I was pretty sure it was a hoax. The Marazita part was confirmation to me. His post seemed like what he'd say in Mike's perfect world. Very well done. I was freaked by Steve's last post, but I loved all the Lurie references. We're old friends, and give each other crap all the time, so my new catchphrase to him is now "you think you're f-ckng around with Andy Lurie here?!" SeaCats Posted: 30 Mar 2005 03:48 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Actually, my farewell was immediately following your post about kicking him out. I don't think he'd threatened you with bodily harm, yet. My initial reaction was to leave too I thought both of you were being assholes. Then I thought...hold on a second we're talking Osborne here...I re-read alot of the posts and smelled a rat. The SOB got me last year, when I was IN ON IT. Mike S./Rocks Posted: 30 Mar 2005 03:55 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I totally bought it, until Tony said he thought it was an April Fool's joke and that got me thinking. Then I said, this would be perfect to say Marazita is back, so that sealed the deal for me. Good thing I didn't post my resignation in protest of what looked like a stupid bullheaded decision to kick Steve out of the league! Then I woulda been double Funk'd! bigdaddy Posted: 30 Mar 2005 04:10 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- That was one of my fears -- that some of you would want to resign because of it. I was hoping it would be more of a one-sided argument, with Steve looking like the out-of-control jackass, but I had to give him enough of a reason to go after me, so I had to throw in a few insults myself. For the record, I love the state of Tennessee. I've been to Nashville several times, and the people there couldn't be any friendlier. bigdaddy Posted: 30 Mar 2005 04:17 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Quote: Good thing I didn't post my resignation in protest of what looked like a stupid bullheaded decision to kick Steve out of the league! Bullheaded decision? Let me get this straight...the guy repeatedly insulted me, insulted my family and threatened bodily harm to me...and you DON'T think I should've kicked him out for that?? Makes me wonder what a guy has to do to get kicked out of this league! Sphinx Posted: 30 Mar 2005 04:53 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Wow, you guys really got me on that one. I thought something smelled funny but forgot April Fool's Day was right around the corner. bigdaddy wrote: I especially feel terrible about upsetting a few of you to the point where you were genuinely concerned for my safety Actually, most of us weren't upset. In fact, I was thinking of booking my own reservation in Philly just to see the Galnder/Osborne battle royal! Mike S./Rocks Posted: 30 Mar 2005 04:59 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- bigdaddy wrote: Quote: Good thing I didn't post my resignation in protest of what looked like a stupid bullheaded decision to kick Steve out of the league! Bullheaded decision? Let me get this straight...the guy repeatedly insulted me, insulted my family and threatened bodily harm to me...and you DON'T think I should've kicked him out for that?? Makes me wonder what a guy has to do to get kicked out of this league! Yea, but you kept mocking Tennessee and I like Nashville at least! SeaCats Posted: 30 Mar 2005 05:09 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- By the time Steve had begun threatening you, I had already made up my mind that it was an April Fool joke. I sent Steve his farewell letter, and drove home ... and I started thinking, "Oh geez, not again?" When I got home I re-read some post, and sure enough it looked like a prank... I emailed Steve to tell him I think I'd been Funk'd (again). I didn't see the threats until later... I wish I had seen the email about Philly, that would have been hilarious. TCapone30 Posted: 30 Mar 2005 05:33 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The fight seemed real to me. I was talking to Billy the other day and stated that I couldn't believe it all started over something so stupid. Then I thought about the parties involved and remembered that last years prank was planned WELL in advance. I was sceptical last night. The Marazita thing was what gave it away. Great job though. bigdaddy Posted: 30 Mar 2005 05:38 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- What do you mean "something so stupid??" Dick Radatz really did face Mickey Mantle only 19 times!! You'd have to be a complete IDIOT to think otherwise!! It's all right there in the box scores!!!!!! (In all fairness, I've had real arguments on this message board over topics much dumber than that.) Mike S./Rocks Posted: 30 Mar 2005 05:42 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- bigdaddy wrote: (In all fairness, I've had real arguments on this message board over topics much dumber than that.) EXACTLY! Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 30 Mar 2005 07:54 pm Post subject: Re: Andy Kaufman is smiling -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- skizm wrote: I started writing a response to Steve after he sent the email out, but saved it to edit later in the day. Then realized 4/1 was around the corner and started to suspect. The fight was perfectly believable. But once I started thinking about it, I was pretty sure it was a hoax. The Marazita part was confirmation to me. His post seemed like what he'd say in Mike's perfect world. Very well done. I was freaked by Steve's last post, but I loved all the Lurie references. We're old friends, and give each other crap all the time, so my new catchphrase to him is now "you think you're f-ckng around with Andy Lurie here?!" No offense intended to Mr. Lurie - just seemed to be a nice ad lib. Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 30 Mar 2005 08:00 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SeaCats wrote: Actually, my farewell was immediately following your post about kicking him out. I don't think he'd threatened you with bodily harm, yet. My initial reaction was to leave too I thought both of you were being assholes. Then I thought...hold on a second we're talking Osborne here...I re-read alot of the posts and smelled a rat. The SOB got me last year, when I was IN ON IT. My favorite part, i think, was you trying to get involved in the post. I wanted to rip into you, too ... but I kept thinking back to last year (when I did that, when you were being duped and you WERE FREAKING IN ON IT) and I just didn't have the heart this time. Plus, shooting those funny ad-libs jabs at Glander was taking all of my energy. Your pal R2FkU Kidd Funkadelic Posted: 30 Mar 2005 08:02 pm Post subject: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- bigdaddy wrote: Quote: No, I didn't want to freak anyone out!!! Though I did mention it to Chamra. For those of you who weren't in on that one, Steve actually made a reservation at the hotel in Philly during BDBL Weekend and forwarded it to me along with a threatening note. It was pretty funny until I realized a few people were taking it very seriously. And I can now cancel and (hopefully) get my $$ back. Yes, it was an actual reservation. No, I won't be able to attend - our baseball seasons and family vacation to contend with.