Game 1 4/2/07 @ KC
Apr 2nd, 2007 by Curt Schilling
Not sure where to even start. Two words sum it up best, no command. Can’t remember a game where I couldn’t make adjustments but today was certainly one of those. Not so much the secondary pitches but no fastball command is not something that happens much, if at all, over an entire game (even if the ‘game’ for me only lasts 4 innings).
We grabbed a quick lead on David’s double, which followed Youk’s single and immediately I’m in a spot that pitchers crave. Shutting down the other team after you take a lead. It can be a morale booster to your team, and a morale breaker to the opponent. KC was coming off a spring training that saw them hit better than every team but one in Arizona so I knew they were swinging the bats well.
The bullpen wasn’t good or bad, felt fine and got loose easy.
Started Dejesus off with some fastballs, which felt like they got more life as I started to throw. Got in on him for a fly ball to right. Grud worked the count to 3-1, laying off the first change at 1-1, and a FB down and away ended up middle in for a hard single to left. Had Teahan down quick and left a split up for another single 1-2 (I think). First pitch slider to Sweeney didn’t slide, bad miss. Next slider was better and he stayed on it and hit it hard to right to load the bases. Gordon worked a 7 pitch AB, and chased a good split down for out #2. A lengthy AB from Shealy, saw me go to the split 3-2 which he took for ball 4 to walk in a run. I can’t remember if I ever done that? Made a lot of mistakes inside this one AB and it ended up costing us.Overthrowing some balls when I had a chance to end the AB earlier and missing spots too badly to even get him to offer. Gload went 0-1 on a FB away and then I got in on him with a 1-0 cutter for the final out. 33 pitches, bases loaded walk, 1-1 game.
Not the start I was hoping for. Walking off the mound I knew my FB command was crap, and that I’d need to get it right fast.
Buck led off the second with a rope to SS on a 3-2 fastball. Anytime I get to a 3-2 count I am bothered, but getting behind and into deep counts on primarily fastballs is a bad sign. You have to have the ability to make adjustments off mistakes, something I’ve always felt I do, and today I am not sure I did it more than once. Got Pena to two strikes and hung a split badly that he crushed for a triple. Worked some FB and cutters to Dejesus and ended up getting him looking at strike 3 on a fastball away. Two outs again, RISP. Grud hits a 2-0 change that again leave up in the zone, to RF and it’s 2-1. Work Teahan FB, change and get him chasing a split to end the inning.
Third inning starts with Sweeney flying out to center on a 1-0 change up. Gordon works another 7 pitch AB before freezing on a hanging split on the outside corner. I get Shealy to end the inning with a 2 seamer inside, for a GB to third. Gload grounds out on a split to start the second inning. Buck then hits a 1-1 2 seam FB down the LF line for a double. I then throw Pena 5 FBs, and walk him on a 3-1 count. None of the pitchers are anywhere near where I am trying to throw them and I’m wrestling with that while trying to dismiss it, and get the next guy. Dejesus hits a FB to left and again, I am 2 outs with RISP. Grud crushes a FB away that’s up, to deep right for a 2B and Teahan hits a first pitch back door slider that never gets to the back door back up the middle for another run. The inning ends on a 1-2 split that Mike chases.
8 Hits on 7 different counts. A huge bug for me last year was first pitch hits, which doesn’t happen until the final two hits in the fourth today. All five runs score with 2 outs. I had more than ample chances to make this a game, and never did. Inconsistent command and horrific execution cost us the game. When you are facing a guy like Gil certain things can make it easier or harder. He’ll walk some guys if you give your offense a chance. His stuff is so good that when offenses have to press against him, or their down and need to make something happen, he can eat you up. After the first he settled into a nice groove and executed. He pitched a hell of a game and hats off to the KC fans, this towns always been a great baseball city with great sports fans, pretty sure the day and the standing O will be lifetime memories, just always hope you aren’t the guy on the other side when someone has one of those kinds of days. I never let us get into the game after the first. Every inning they pushed and I didn’t push back.
Off day tomorrow and then Josh gets the ball on Wednesday.
Don’t sweat it, boss man. We still had a great time watching you pitch from the break room. All of us at 38 Studios are proud of you and can’t wait to see you fire a few more at the plate.
Ryan “Blackguard” Shwayder
Custodian of the Nerfbat
nlooking for good things from jb on wed and cant wait for your next starto problem curt long way to go cant remember you ever walking in a run.
Hey Curt,
Wow, I got 2nd post! Sorry about the outing. Look at it this way, if you were perfect, then why would anyone wanna watch you play the game. I am totally confident in your pitching ability, not that it matters what I think. I feel that your fastball command was due greatly to your release point. At least, that is what we observed on television. Can you talk a little bit about when you know your hitting your release point right and how being off the littlest bit can affect your fastball and off speed stuff.
Best of luck in a few days! Have a blessed day off and I sure hope Beckett can get us a win!
Your Red Sox Nation Friend from Alabama,
Galen Garner
http://www.galengarner.com
Looking forward to your next start, man. Everyone has their down days. Please ignore Shaughnessy’s column. I’m so sick of the guy, I think he wants every popular Boston athlete to want to leave town.
Noticed at least one pitch that looked good on the outside corner (maybe a little high) that I was surprised to see get hit. Oh, well. One down, only 161 games to go. Beckett should get us on track on Wednesday.
There’s plenty of baseball left to be played this season. How’d you feel about the change-up today?
Give ya’ credit dude — posting that was probably one of the more difficult things you’ve had to do, huh? I don’t think if I had a day at work like you just had I would be writing anything about it — except maybe a few choice words I wouldn’t repeat in front of the kids.
Peace and better stuff next time.
Sorry to see you guys have such a tough time today. Despite a rough outing, it’s the mark of a true professional that you still got on here to give the readers a rundown on the game right away.
I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for taking the time you do to do this blog. It is truly an outstanding thing for you to do. Your comments and insights show the readers a side of the game you really can’t get anywhere else. So from one greatful fan I want to say thank you and wish you the best throughout the season.
Take care,
Bobby
http://firedannyainge.wordpress.com
Don’t get mad. Get even. (Next game) It’s freaking opening day. Just one game in a marathon. (Just don’t do it again.lol)
Hey Curt, It’s Anthony, I just joined your site. I can imagine how you feel i pitched a lot when i was on my AAU teams, not the level as you are in now, but I know how the feeling of not getting your pitches right where you want them, and i have learned to take the aggression that i used from the first start and carry it to the second start and make each pitch better than i did last game, and i hated losing the first game of the year for my team, because they feel i am the number one and i am suppose to win and a lot of weight is on me to go out and perform. I am sure you know how to preform under pressure from being in the World Series. As I said i was a pitcher and still am, i am not the dominant type of pitcher i would say i am more of the Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, where i relay on my accuracy and some games, I wouldn’t have that accuracy and I would wonder what went wrong and I think from being out of the game for awhile is that it’s just baseball, and you have to study the batters and what there tendencies are and you do a great job of that. I have learned a lot from how you pitch.
Don’t worry about one game, you have plenty of more starts, don’t get stuck on one game, or that would game will bring you down, when your moving on to the next start.
Thank you again for reading this
Anthony
I was curious about how this blog would look today, but I’ll admit that I had no doubt that you’d post something tonight. I admire your accountability, because I realize how difficult writing about your outing must be hours after it happened. It’s easy to post and smile when you put up bagels, but what fascinates your fans (and I am one of them) is your insight and commentary, and I appreciate your willingness to delve into the game here.
Can’t wait to see the team bounce back. No worries. Good luck Sunday.
JAS
Thank you for your honesty, Curt, and for reaching out to the fans tonight after a brutal loss. You are most certainly not the first Red Sox to have a tough night, and you won’t be the last!
Hang in there–we’re all out here pulling for each and every one of you guys.
I pity the doubters, I really do. Have they learned nothing over the years? It is a marathon, not a sprint, and here was what I took from tonight:
-Tough night for Schill.
-Bullpen looks great, save less than a handful of pitches!
-Pedroia: Nice work getting to Meche when few others could, rookie.
-Tek needs to take more pitches; too many empty swings.
-So great to see you all back in action.
Can’t wait for Wednesday…and for your next start this weekend! Go Sox, and thanks again, Curt.
I don’t think anyone should worry, its the season opener. Everyone worried at the ‘04 opener when it went kind of like this one, that year turned out fine. Either way it was nice to be able to watch you Schill, along with the rest of the guys, because its officially baseball season. Also, you mentioned football in the blog, you’re like the Pats, you rarely have a rough outing 2 times in a row. Thank you again for the re-cap.
”you tried your best right?”
Words to live by.
PEACE AND GOD BLESS!!
Great to see that you posted even with the results you had. I thought I was hallucinating when I saw you walk in a guy. I don’t know if you remember how 2004 started, but Pedro got shelled. 161 to go. Good luck getting it straightened out. I know you will.
PS you better. You’re on my fantasy team
I have a question: What part of the mechanics of pitching relates to command? you said you got loose quickly and that your velocity was good. Does that make it more difficult sometimes to control your pitches? If it does why?
Go get ‘em Schill!
Curt,
The ESPN guys commented you were tipping your change up by slowing down your delivery when throwing your offspeed stuff. They specifically mentioned a changeup to Grud that was drilled to right in the hole. Were they accurate in your opinion? Do you look at the tape in between starts or do you not find it helpful. If you do, are you strictly looking at mechanics or do you also study hitters’ reactions to pitches.
Just one start. Hope you can take something from this game to build on. How long did it take in the majors before you realized that your next start has nothing to do with your last outing and that “chomping at the bit to get back out there” was counterproductive vs. sticking to one’s regimen of success?
Bob
As much as Shaughnessy would like you to believe, Red Sox Nation is not going to throw the towel in after one game. There’s plenty more baseball to come and I have total confidence in you!
All the same, I probably wouldn’t turn EEI on tomorrow-haha
Thanks for posting that blog. I know it must’ve been hard but it really is a great thing you’re doing by opening up to the fans.
Can’t wait till your next start!
Curt, Man that was painful to watch and very disappointing. I’m sure more disappointing for you. I just kept waiting for you to turn it around, that is what we have become accustom to since you joined the team. I would love to say I have all the confidence that you will but I’m concerned. Any insight on why you didn’t have your typical command as you looked great in spring training, or do you just chalk it up to a bad day? I do appreciate you facing the music as you always has. Wish you the best for all your future starts.
Curt,
It seems like you need to get your mind off money. You are obviously an egomaniac and obsessed with your own stats. You should be more of a team player like me. Do you think its easy to watch Varitek struggle out there while I am wasting away on the bench? Well it isn’t easy I am twice the athlete you will ever be and I am only signed for this year do you see me going public with demands for a contract extension? NO YOU DONT! I am a team player. Have a nice day! and please have a better start next time out!
-doug
Your competition has learned the hard way that betting against you when you’re down is a huge mistake. I have no doubt you’ll bounce back from this.
We held down our chairs at the Blue Coyote for you and we’ll do it again every time you pitch! Great watching you again.
Figgs
Curt, get ‘em next time. Least you had a better day than W. How ’bout some Barack love - Karma can’t hurt!
The biggest compliment I can give you, is that even after today - especially after today - I knew you’d show up here. Good on ya.
Get em next time Schill!
You better get going if you want that big contract…just kidding prove theo wrong, win 20 and stick it to them. Lets hope the offence can pick it up, I have no worries about starting pitching.
Chin up & Chest out. Keep up the great attitude and smoke ‘em next time.
B
Tough game, and only 161 more to go…whatever shall we do?
BAH!
With this one blog you have made me an even bigger fan by offering no excuses. Truly an amazing show of character.
A struggle only makes it better and sweeter come the end of the year. Stay healthy and we all know you’ll be…well, Curt. I never like to see the Sox lose, especially when you’re pitching, but it’s only opening day. Best to get that first loss outta the way.
Curt,
There is one thing that I know you will do when you head to that mound. You give the team and the fans everything that you have! I know that is what you did today and I know you will do it next time too. Everyone has a bad day, but you are a team and you weren’t the only player that didn’t perform well. I am sure that will turn around. Thirty-four more games to go and I’m sure you will come out on top for most of those! Good luck and keep blogging!!
Seth
http://www.SethWinkleman.PrudentialCT.com
http://linkwithwink.blogspot.com/
Hi Curt
Thanks for this blog … really cool on your part … now based on your performance today , did you feel it was in any way a result of your transition from strictly power pitcher to add a change-up … not that you seemed to throw that many changes but without a 94-95 mph fastball what is your plan when you are behind in the count this year? I think you and Beckett need to watch a little DVD footage on Zaka’s gyroball!!! lol … maybe morph pitch with Wake’s knuckler
Curt..no worries, we appreciate your blog more than any other sportswriter….I’ll be there for your home opener at Fenway and can’t wait. Love having you as part of this team.
Dan
Thanks for posting even after such a tough day for you and the Nation. Let’s all shake this one off and get back out there strong the next time. Peace.
It’s far too early for anyone to feel like the wheels have come off. It’s game one of 162+. I tuned in at the beginning of the third and the radio guys were saying you were up to 53 pitches, I knew it was going to be tough.
I echo patsox33 - I wasn’t sure what to expect showing up here today, but I was surprised and pleased to find a fully fleshed out post.
Nicely done Curt.
Wow, KC really impressed me with their bats today. And Meche gets some points for a great start. He was painting the corners well.
You, 38, looked like you were pressing, and KC looked looser.
The real killer was that the Royals’ first five runs off you came WITH TWO OUTS!
A good thing that one only counts as one loss because it looked like the Bostons were never in it after the first.
And let me say that I really enjoyed seeing Kaufmann rocking (sorry it was at your expense, 38). I grew up in the Midwest and KC was a great baseball town when I was a kid.
One last thing, 38. This is cool of you to do this, really cool, and it should be fun. And I’ll always use my name since you’ve got the stones to do this. no anonymous posts from me.
Chris Nelson, Batavia, Ill.
A column like Shaughnessy’s is Exhibit A for why people don’t like to play in Boston….why people beg to get traded. Enthusiasm in a sports-crazy city like Boston is a double-edged sword - it makes it fun to watch the game but some out there can tend to take stuff too seriously. A little perspective please! 162 is a big number. And no, I’m not a glassy-eyed fanboy - perhaps the columnist who in mid-2005 smugly announced mid-season that the season was all wrapped up with the Sox’ name on it should think again before he calls anyone a fanboy.
It’s one game, it’s over. You’re a great pitcher and you’ll have a great year. Just FYI, there are a lot of New England guys in my unit here at Ft. Irwin, CA and we’re all cheering for you.
Don’t worry about it man. I knew you’d be the first one to tell us you had trouble. If you’re not commanding your fastball, you’re in for a treat. I’m a senior in high school, and as low a level as this as a pitcher, I know it’s going to be a rough day. One thing I’d love to know mechanically, is how you stay on top of the ball while staying back without being late? I’m to the point in my time where I feel I’m almost there, but constantly making adjustments and would like to just do the same thing everytime. I don’t know if you do or not, but it’d be interesting to know.
First game of 162 Curt. Everyone has an off day, I’m sure you’ll get them next time. Thanks for being so honest in your post.
From a member of RSN in Cincinnati
-Emmy
It was rough watching the game specially after watching the evil empire pull one off. Don’t worry the real red sox nation is still here to support you and the rest of our beloved team.
Frankly, I’m glad you guys stunk up the joint this afternoon. Get it out of the way early, and get on with the rest of the season. You’ll get ‘em on Easter Sunday, Curt…….
The start of The Year Of Josh Beckett awaits on Wednesday. Pity the poor Royals.
The Fellowship Of The Miserable
Curt,
Like others have said its only 1 of 162. Every pitcher has a rough start once in a while. At least yours came early in the season.
Good luck next start (I’m sure you’ll have things figured out)
Don’t worry Curt it is only the first game. Wednesday it will be Josh and then the Man Dice K takes the mound. How do you think Dice K will do Curt? Curt it is like being on a diet some days you are focused and some days you are not. I am the one on the nutrisystem diet. Curt will you and the rest of your team mates give me support Curt while I am on the diet. Could I get a baseball autographed by David Ortiz to keep me motovatied. Take care Curt and I will keep you and the rest of the team in my prayers as you travel on the road. Curt final question what is your favorite verse from the Bible and why?
From, Jeff
Curt-
Tough break today, as you know im sure, it happens….
Just wanted to get your thoughts on that big rookie 3B Kansas City has, (Alex Gordon I think his name was.) They were making him out to be some sort of savior to the Royals organization as a whole. Is he over hyped, or does he have some real potential for greatness as the media claims?
Also, did Tek take over control of the pitching gameplan after the first inning today? Or were you calling the shots all game?
Thanks!
P.S. I admire the fact that you take time out of your day to write on here, please continue this all season long!
Amazing read of your recap here Boss! I know it’s not what you hoped for but if you’ve said it once, you’ve said it a thousand times about how important command is for you. The important thing is that you fought, competed and we were all so proud to see you out there fighting for us on Opening Day. I certainly didn’t want to see anybody else out there instead of you.
I couldn’t stop laughing watching Kurkjian on ESPN listing peripheral issues like this blog as possible causes for the struggles today and not one word from them about nuts and bolts things like your fastball command or your off-season work developing your changeup. I guess that’s the insight they get paid to provide eh?
And I love how quick the haters are to jump on here and kick sand in your face. I’ll see if I can be the first to point out today that you have always given Red Sox fans everything they’ve ever dared to dream of and more. Anytime you’ve told us you were going to deliver you have always come through. You know how to deliver and I pity anybody that gets in your way between now and October!
No worries my friend, today was just the first step of a heck of a big season. We got this one out of the way. Beckett on Wednesday and Dice-K on Thursday and boy howdy we’ll really be rolling by the end of the week. I feel sorry for The Rangers having to deal with seeing you on Sunday, even tougher and more determined. Looks like that game will be on ESPN so I’ll get to watch that one too. I can’t wait to see your first non NESN or Extra Innings or MLB TV start.
Amazing what you wrote about being bothered by getting to full-counts. It reminded me of that rash of two strike hits you suffered from as a closer in 2005. What comes into play there? Random chance or can something that bugs you like that turn into a self-fulfilling prophecy?
No worries, it only gets better from here. Thanks for sharing your recap and bringing us inside the game.
Your biggest fan, lap-dog, fan-boy, butt-kisser and any other “insult” the haters want to throw my way,
Deane
Curt,
Thanks for the honesty and the blog. It’s great to have the perspective on the game. Good you got your bad game out of the way.
Well, look at the bright side - Jose Contreras gave up 7 runs in one(+) inning, whereas you only pitched slightly worse than Carl Pavano today. I’m sure things will improve.
Dare I say you looked your age? Keep up the good work!
Curt,
You’re a stand-up guy for taking the heat and posting. Why not you on Sunday, right?
Best,
Ethan
Curt, As a Sox fan from KC first and foremost and a Royals season ticket holder I can’t help but notice the Sox losses that have piled up the last few seasons here in KC. What’s your take on the Royals home streak against Boston? Thanks for recognizing the fan base here in today’s blog–this really is a great baseball town in spite of what our NL neighbors across the state think. And by the way–witnessing you guys pummel STL in the WS in our back yard and being there to witness it was truly priceless. MO
Curt-
Sorry about the game today. No matter what happens, we can see the effort and the sincerity in your performance, and thats all we can ask.
Thank you so much for this blog, it is an incredible treat for us sports fans and red sox fans to have such an intimate perspective from someone who is such a big part of the game. I look forward to reading all year
Curt,
Its one start dont let it bother you. It was clear it was just one of those days where nothing seemed to go right. It happens. You guys will be fine. Looking foward to your next start!
Hi Curt. No matter what happens with the remainder of your awesome career, you’ll always be an American Hero in my book. Every young pitcher that I work with in the years ahead will know all about the “bloody sock” and the fact that you always gave it your all…no matter the odds.
I know what it feels like first hand not to have command of a series of pitches on any given day. You battled hard today and made the best of a tough situation. I have no doubt that you’ll take this loss in stride and “move on” to the next challenge. It’s only one game and not the end of the world.
I appreciate the fact that you’re taking the time to write to all of us despite how difficult it will be at times. Just know that there are plenty of former players and coaches like myself that believe in you and our beloved Red Sox. Good luck on your next start and keep your head up. Best regards, Lou
The season has only begun. You weren’t the only pitcher who struggled today. The season is 162 games long, and this one game won’t define your season. Sometimes it takes a humbling performance to make you better, and against Texas you’ll have that chance to bounce back.
–Andrew
Yes Curt, yah sucked…. But getting beat this badly may be the best thing that could have happened for the team. With the press prognosticating how great the Red Sox’ are going to be, this was a great wake up call…. It will keep the players from believing the press reports - humility will make them work harder. Nothing is more heroic than dusting yourself off, taking the grief, and hitting it hard the next day.
On a personal note, one of the reasons I love sports is because the players have so little to hide behind. Their flaws and strengths are out there for the world to see. You are adding a whole new dimension to it with this blog. It is becoming a great teaching tool to show us all how to handle adversity… and success.
-Another sappy fan that is rooting for you- Thanks again for ‘04
Hi Curt: I knew it was a bad day when you walked in a run and had 2 walks in one game. Very unlike you. You also had many high pitch counts (almost full counts ) to several players and a high overall pitch count and you attributed this to no command especially of the fastball. I know a couple of splits were also hit.
If you are going to “pitch to contact” more this year, does your “command” need to be even better? If you knew you didn’t have command early on, was there anything that could have given the command back? Did you not have a “feel” for the pitches? Were your mechanics off?
Did you think you were being squeezed a little by the ump Tim Tschida? Does the performance of the pitcher affect the offense in ways other than the need for pressing at the plate? A few days ago, Dice-K reportedly was angry after a pitching performance because he felt that his lack of command kept the hitters out of rhythm, any comments?
I was so excited for opening day and watching you pitch. I thought for sure that you would get it together today or that the offense would bail you out, but Meche and the Royals played a great game. Can’t wait for Wed and Thursday. Better luck next time !! Eileen
The only winners today are is Curt’s pitch for ALS who bring in $2500. Oh and Kansas City. They also won. Damnit
Bad game today, Schilling. You let down all of New England in what everybody expected to be a cupcake win. Just straighten out and start winning some games so we all just forget about today. You are right when you said “no command” but I also think your fastball lacked velocity. NESN’s gun had you clocked all the way up to 94mph but you were consistently 89-90mph I think if you added a little more zip to the ball and got it around 91-93 consistently you would have been better off. From what I saw today you seemed to be locating the fastball better when you were reaching back to put more on it.
- Acheron
It was definitely an ugly game, nothing seemed to go right, but it is just one game. The Sox will be fine. I do admire your accountability. Many athletes would refrain from posting. The insight is interesting. Better luck with Texas.
Jeff
http://www.soxandpinstripes.com
You guys are seriously drinking the kool-aid….Schill just got rocked by the Royals. Have a nice year.
I noticed you didn’t throw inside much. Maybe you could have taken a page from Pedro and got them thinking with a few more pitches inside. It seems to me he threw inside more when he didn’t have his best stuff. In any case, hang in there and get’em next time.
My brother who knows everything told me before the game that any player who has a monster opening game will not do good the rest of the season. And those who have a bad start go on to do great. So he either knows what he’s talking about or his fantasy team had a bad start hehe.
Shake if off everything will be rolling in to place. Beside history will repeat itself. when you were with the Dbacks we met in houston and you went on to win the world series. And now I met you on this site. So another World Series win this year.
Also a update on my Friend Brady Guidry i posted about. He’s still in ICU in houston. His Breathing is up to 100% but he’s still on the breathing machine for backup. The Feeding Tube was finally inserted and he is starting to get his color back. I wasnt able to talk to him today but im sure he watched the game on ESPN. I hope everyone keeps him in your prayers.
Good luck on the rest of the season!
Rusty Aymond
uofmhockeyman@aol.com
P.S. Have you checked out Vanguard yet?
Curt, would anybody pitch well with REO Speed Wagon singing the national anthem?
Curt-
Can’t beat yourself up too much. Your pitches weren’t falling, the ump was squeezing you, and the Royals weren’t swinging. Mechanics looked good, sounds like the arm feels good, and those are big pluses. I was impressed with the pitches selected by you/Tek. In the 4th, I was calling every one of your pitches, including location, to my friend. Exactly what I would call (I coach j.v. baseball at a high school nearby). Walking in a run sucks, it’s always embarrassing, I know. But it takes balls to throw a splitter down and out on 3-2 with bags juiced, so I respect that. You’ll bounce back.
Hey Curt!
I’m an Astros fan, but have been a fan of yours since you pitched here. Have been reading some of your blog since I found it a month or so ago but wasn’t really planning to sign up to post. After watching the Sox/Royals game tonight, I figured I’d pop in to see if you posted a brief note about the outing, and was surprised (and very impressed) to see such a detailed report. I just wanted to thank you for taking the time to do so! Good luck with the rest of the season!
Brandon
Curt, though I grew up in Boston and my dad was a season-tickets owner, I’ve lived in Arizona since my 18th birthday, and it wasn’t till you became a Red Sox that I ever really cheered for the team. You’re badly missed out here at Bank One Ballpark, or Chase Field, or whatever they’ll name it next time.
This blog is a fantastic service you’re providing your fans - and it’s also a clever way to circumvent the occasionally acrimonious writing that happens at the Globe.
I hope publishing your pitching journal is even a fraction as beneficial for you as it is for all of us. Many thanks!
Mr. Schilling,
As my login name will attest, I’m not a memeber of Red Sox nation. In fact, a Boston loss excites me just as much as a New York win. Obviously I’ve browsed your site, perhaps out of morbid curiosity, and was only too eager to log on today after your rough outing, to see what you’d have to say. If nothing else, you prove yourself to be a class act, willing to take the time to break down a game that you’d probably rather forget. Hats off to you for your honesty and integrity. Though I’d be happy if you didn’t win another game for the rest of the year, I don’t see that happening. I’m sure you’ll break my heart, like you have so many times before. This rivalry gets ugly, and exhausting at times, but there’s nothing like it in sports today. It reminds me of the Lakers/Celtics brawls in the 80’s. I remember, as a Laker fan at the time, hating Larry Bird with a passion…until he said he was going to retire. Then I suddently felt devastated, and realized what he’d given me, as a fan, and that the sport would never be the same without him. Without Bird, there was no Magic. I feel the same way about the Sox; the playoffs are just not the same without a New York/Boston series. Good luck this season, and hopefully we’ll have a another battle in October to look forward to.
Unlike a lot of the people here, I am not here to read about baseball but I am here for the Ngurk talk. So take what i say with a grain of salt.
Most of the people here are either gonna kiss your #@! and tell you its alright, bitch like hell because you didn’t do all that great tonight, or poke fun at your because they are not red sox fans, so here is my I-do-watch-baseball-and-love-the-sport-but-am-not-a-diehard-fan-of-the-red sox nor-any-other-major-league-team-and-I-watch-it-simply-because-I-hate basketball-and-it-isn’t-college-football-season-but-I-am-a-big-geek-and-know your-eq/eq2-background-and-thats-why-I-read-this-blog-opinion….
You kinda sucked tonight, and I think you know you didn’t do well, but #!#@ happens and you move on, and you pitch your ### off in a couple days and prove everyone wrong. As lame as it sounds, it does sound a bit like raiding…
Decide the plan, execute the plan, or don’t come.
Hey Curt,
Thanks so much for taking the time to post this blog tonight. Regardless of the outcome it was great seeing you and the guys out there. Its a long season and every TEAM has a trying day once in a while! I have no doubt you’ll continue to be the ace this season and the guys will heat up !!
Have a great off day ~
rock on
“Because Your Awesome”
by The Dollyrots, 2007
Curt you are extremely generous to be on here tonight. keep your head up. The royals were pumped for their home opener, but wait til you step on the mound at Fenway. I don’t have tickets, but i promise you, me and a couple thousand others will be cheering you on from home, and loving every second of it.
I know its a hard pill to swallow tonight, but you’re going to put it behind you and excel. You ran into a hot team, thats it. If I remember correctly, and I do, you led a team down 0-3 in the playoffs last year to victory….this is nothing. You’re your own biggest critic, and youre gunna be too hard on yourself, so just remember you owe nothing to us fans. I’m preaching to the choir here, but just try to keep your head up and look to the future.
Thanks for allowing me, my brother, and my mom to celebrate a world series in 2004 together, we’ll never forget it, not ever. And the work that you do outside of baseball makes me proud of having you on the team I root for. Good luck.
Brian Z.
I didn’t get around to doing this earlier, but after reading the miserable excuse for a column by the CHB I felt it was time.
First of all, Curt, thanks for 2004. I’ve wanted to tell everyone from that team “Thanks” for the past 2 1/2 years, and this is the first chance I’ve had. It meant so much to me and to my entire family.
Secondly, this whole blog idea is awesome. It’s a great way to be in contact with the fans, and I know I’ve loved reading the Q & A’s that you post. They’re wonderful.
Thirdly, don’t worry too much about today. It was painful to watch, because I live in New Jersey and I had to deal with friends of mine starting in with their usual comments (after all, the Yanks won today), but I have no doubt that you’ll soon make a heck of a lot more than 55,000 New Yorkers shut up.
Hang in there.
I see TFrancoma has picked up right where he left off last year. Leaving you in for 3 batters and 3 runs too long. I called it when the game went from 2-1 to 5-1 in a blink, because Francoma always waits until it’s too late. It’s a good thing he’s not a doctor because all his patients would bleed to death. I never second guess a game decision. I always see what’s coming and can’t figure out why he can’t. He obviously has no overall philosophy because he constantly contridicts himself from game to game. I’m anxious to see how many more winable games he will lose outright for the Sox this year by his blatent mishandling of the pitching staff. It’s easy to manage when you are up by 10 runs, but when it comes to knowing how to keep the team in the game and putting you guys in the best position to win every day, he doesn’t have a clue. You could pay me $5 a game to do a better job. I’m not just a casual fan blowing smoke. I’m 38, have been a obsessed Sox fan all my life, and follow each game from start to finish. However, I have become increasingly frustrated by this guy over the last couple years, watching him piss away games by making tactical moves that make no logical sense. I have come to the conclusion that Red Sox nation has no chance to win again as long as Francoma is allowed to manage, or should I say mismanage this team.
I don’t think this team is good enough considering the competition they are facing, to win in spite of him. (like 86′ w/Johnny Mac to a point. We all know which play in game 6 exposed him) This guy is going to constantly get a free pass because of the 2004 WS. We all know the players won that WS, in spite of, not because of Francoma. There were some superhuman efforts (Shill & Foulke to mention just a few who went beyond the call of duty) Fouke ultimately sacrificed his career to win that Series and should have been the MVP.
Francoma will be exposed at some point, for those who aren’t putting him under the microscope game after game, as yours truly does. I wish managment would pay a little more attention if they really want to win again. For those of you who don’t agree, you need to start opening your eyes to the glaring tactical faults of your manager….
Curt,
Your teammates will pick it up the next few days and you get ready for those Rangers in Arlington on Sunday. I’m looking forward to that one, get to see it in person! I’m sure the rest of Red Sox Nation will be there with me.
Here’s hoping Big Papi hits me another home run ball with you on the mound at Arlington. I’ve got his 1st HR donation from 2006. Nice smash off the Right Field foul pole at Arlington.
Very cool you had time to post today.
Kevin
Hey Curt, you really bogged down my fantasy team man. Let’s get a better performance out there next week, maybe get some more K’s too. Atta kid.
Hey Curt!
You looked flat right from the first pitch…the desire was there but the drive was missing…just couldn’t get the rhythm going. Hurts like hell to start off a season with a sub-par performance, but your self confidence and inner strength will prevail (as always). Good luck to you on Sunday, my parents will be there to cheer you on.
Cheri
“Welcome to the Jungle
We take it day by day
If you want it you’re gonna bleed
But it’s the price you pay….”
–Guns ‘N Roses
Wow, I thought watching you pitch today was difficult, but reading some of these posts was even harder! Isn’t idol-worship discouraged?? Throw stones at Shaughnessy if you please, but maybe he was on to something about the majority of your posters being pathetic kiss-ups. How is it possible that in 70-plus posts no one has raised the possibility that you’ve got a little “inherent toolness” of your own that needs tending to?? I’m not hating, b/c I know we all do… but does your ego really need all this pablum? Rejoice in the truth, brother: You sucked today! Hope you just chill out and pitch on Sunday, and leave the rest to the real “boss man.”
You’ll get’em next time, Curt. As a Phillies fan, I have learned to discount open day perfomances,since everyone is usually more intense and tense going into it, even seasoned veterans such as yourself. You had a good spring so I’m sure you’ll bounce back just fine. I spent a wonderful opening day at the Phillies game with my nephew,(well wonderful except for the last 2 innings). We started the game with the Bulls barbeque ribs, the best ribs in baseball and watched the pregame tributes to Vuk, and the other 4 former Phillies who left us this year, Callison, Lidle, Organist Paul Richardson, and former pitching coach Vern Ruhle Myers. Vuk’s son Vince threw the first pitch. Very emotional. Kind of puts everything into perspective. Once the game started, Smoltz looked like his usual self and Myers looks like he is ready to take that step to the next level. The everyday players seemed to be pressing a bit. I was very happy to see Chase and Howard flip in the lineup. Breaks up the righthanders and forces teams to pitch more to Howard but of course the talking heads are bashing Manuel over it. Manuel also left Myers in for 105 pitches which I thought was a mistake for the first game. I got the impression he was scared of the bullpen, which is managing not to lose. I say treat the bullpen with confidence until they prove otherwise. If the manager doesn’t show confidence in them, how are they supposed to fell confident.
On a bright note I am glad real baseball is here. The Royals have some impressive young ballplayers. You gotta like Teahen and Gordon.
OK, so I already knew I couldn’t throw a 94 mph fastball. Heck, I struggle to match the velocity of my six-year-old son!
But now after watching yesterday’s performance, I have some new questions:
* Could I go to work and do my job well on HD TV?
* And if I did lay an egg under the spotlight, could I hold a press conference and talk about it?
* Or blog to the world about everything I did wrong?
* Then wait for most of a week for the chance to redeem myself?
Really appreciate the account and the accountability, Curt.
You can’t win ‘em all, but you can always be a winner.
best,
Tom
You aren’t the only Ace who struggled today, Webb struggled too. My fault…have you guys on my Fantasy team. Sorry.
When you have a day like this which we know is rare, does it change what you do on your side session or your next outing?
Eh; losing the season opener is like a Sox MO. Sure, we’d have liked to see a gem of a pitching duel (a la Schilling / Santana) but hey - everyone tosses a stinker sometimes.
It’s a long season, and I think it will be full of awesome performances from everyone in the rotation.
I want the old Curt back, the one who pitched the last 20 years without a changeup and won over 300 games WITHOUT a changeup. It looked to me as if you were throwing a batting practice pitch with the same “fall off” to first base. I think (but who am I) a good time to use the changeup if your going to use one would be be following a high waste fastball.
I liked it better when you didnt beat around the bush…threw a fastball ouside corner, threw a fastball inside corner, wasted a fastball high, and sat them down with a splitter.
Anyways you’ll have your good days and you’ll have your bad days, just think of it this way…thats one less bad day out of the way!!!
Curt,
It’s so great that God gives us a new day, each morning, whether the day before was good or bad, we get to start fresh, again!
You are the piston that drives that pitching staff and I know that you will roll again. Wake up today knowing tomorrow is behind you, learn from what went wrong, tweak that which worked well and know that Red Sox nation has faith in you and the talents that God has given you.
Can’t wait to hear you pitch the next game.
God Bless
Roger in Central New York
Clearly, Curt, the Herald photo-shopped in those bloated ERA numbers I read this morning after your name. I have no worries. You had me at hello.
His Toolness
Curt,
Thanks for facing the music, as you always do. Some pitchers think they can hide after a poor outing — not you!
Real baseball fans know that the numbers will be there for you over the course of the season, so (despite the calls on nitwit radio) we are not panicking over a single game.
And we know Theo will patch any holes that crop up over the course of the long season.
In short: we are ready for another exciting season of watching Red Sox baseball and number 38!
get over it, at least you didnt lose to the yanks..and by the way,,did you notice, on pro’s vs. joes, wade boggs played for the new york team against the joes…i hope he pulled a muscle
I still have faith in you my Schill. You won us something that no one else could in 86 years and you did it after a few months of commercials saying you would do it. One bad start is nothing - walk it off and you will be in total command next time. I’m saving for my series tickets now!
Sorry Curt but you proved to all of us today that you are washed up! you and Randy Johnson both need to find a nice retirement home and stick to watching the games on T.V. Dice K is the sox new ACE hes going to win 20 games this year no doubt. You will be lucky to win 12
Curt,
You’ll get them next time. Don’t sweat it.
Love your blog. Thanks for taking time out for your fans.
Michael
Curt,
Chalk it up to a bad day. Everyone has ‘em. I know you’ll straighten it out next game. Someone earlier posted the ESPN commentators assertion that you were tipping your changeup. I am hardly a trained observer, but a 48 year Sox fan and watch you all religiously here ini Virginia. I have to agree that your delivery looked different when you were trying to throw the change. It seemed as if you were a little more deliberate when you threw that pitch. Being the person you are you have probably already reviewed the game film and seen that. Good luck on the next start and I hope CHB develops a severe case of writer’s cramp. I can’t stand listening to his BS.
Best wishes,
Curt Swift
Yep, the Sox got spanked in KC yesterday.
KC deserved that win, so congrats to them. After losing 6 of the last 8 opening day games, I think the Sox are heading for a new tradition, which in the whole scheme of things, means absolutely nothing. It was a team loss.
No unsolicited advice from me. You’re the professionals. You’ll figure it out.
I do appreciate the blog entry, thank you. Fascinating stuff. The season has officially opened and the fun has just begun. Onward! Tomorrow’s only a day away! Woo-Hoo!
GO SOX!!
Curt,
You still want the Red Sox to sign you for next after that performance?
Curt no excuses. Your new changeup looks like it may be your old fastball which just isn’t up to speed. Keep working on getting skinny, maybe your velocity on your fastball will come back and your changeup will fade.
Long way to go Curt stay focused. Look forward to your next start
Curt:
As you know, the name of the game is to throw strikes and when the command is not there, it is a struggle. Can’t be 2-0 on everyone and expect to last long…..I understand your concern, but don’t worry as much about the first pitch hits….throw strikes…..hit your spots with the fastball….
JM
Schill - it’s one start. You will bounce back. I wish Red sox nation would step down from the ledge but that’s what they do. There are 161 more of these things. Hit the prozac and love the ride.
Observation:
I don’t think Shaughnessy likes having someone write about him. He likes to make personal comments about Schill in his column but obviously doesn’t like an athlete who fires back in a blog.
Us common people who read all this stuff are lucky to have such entertainment available to us. It’s too bad that Shaughnessy is such a tool though.
Has anyone else seen him at Fenway with his lips attached to Matt Damons ass? It’s pretty funny.
Hey Curt - At least RSN knows that you’ll put this start behind you and be ready for the next. Looking forward to seeing bounce back. Good luck!
wow…you really sucked yesterday…not sure we needed anything beyond that.
Bottom line is you will pitch better. Frankly, if the game went better for you, it most probably would have been for naught with the offense being so anemic. That, the offense, is my biggest concern right now.
Stay healthy, and show the young guys the way.
Curt,
It’s only 1 game, but it sure wasn’t very impressive; I know the “season is a marathon” and all that good stuff, but you have to beat KC no matter where the game is being played. The team as a whole had an off day; when that happens, YOU have to be 1 run better than the other team.
I’m sure you’ll work hard between starts; the team needs you to be an ace, not just “part” of a good starting five. Losing to KC is never good.
Get ‘em Sunday!
Tom
I am not worried at all about you.
Why? - You’re clutch and that is something that you won’t lose until you are physically unable to perform. In other words, you are fine.
I am worried about Tek. His swing has looked concerning throughout spring training. Is he healthy? Are his knees at a point where he just can’t bat anymore? I live in Texas and I wish I could see you guys beat the Rangers but sadly the two times you come down are the two times I am out! First time in my life I won’t be able to see a Sox game.
By the way, I grew up in Philly so I have been able to enjoy your pitching for years. What was Dalton like as a catcher? - and was he as out there as the Philadelphia media portrayed him to be?
I could see you as a lot of classes in WoW… since you came from EQ I would guess that you are not a warrior, rogue, shammy, druid or warlock. I could see you as a paladin, a mage, a priest (that’s my guess), or a hunter.
Enjoy your next start.
Sincerely,
John Limberakis
In the words of Meterparel 89 pitches that sucked.
To be honest I expect more from you on opening day then that horrid display.
Curt,
You are a saint in sheep’s clothing for even thinking about posting after such a tough game. Your courage and heart for doing so is just beyond the pale of what we could ever hope to expect from a mere human being. Rainbow bridges will lead the way through your next start. Cowboy up, Affirmed.
Curt,
I appreciate you coming and posting like that after an outing you’d just as soon forget. Always have to take the good and the bad. We’ll be looking forward to your next start (and Josh’s tomorrow too!)
Geez…people still read Shaughnessy? The man is too full of himself to write a good article.
So excited to see the first game of the season, even if it didn’t turn out the way we wanted. Meche was on his game, and the bats struggled. Not much you can do except tip your cap to him and get ready for the next start.
Curt, thank you for you candid and professional demeanor here. It’s good to see someone take responsibility for his performance and not point fingers at anyone else. That’s a great example to set for the kids.
I’m looking forward to seeing your former minor league team play this season. I love me some Rochester Red Wings, and Garza is poised to have another great year at AAA.
SKB
Rochester, NY
One game out of 162…can’t wait for Wednesday to get this ball rolling. That is why I love baseball, I don’t have to wait a whole week to dwell on one loss. I just wish there wasn’t an off-day today…should save those for later in the season. Let’s see, Johan Santana gives up 7 hits, 4 earned runs and Curt Schilling gives up 8 hits and 5 earned runs. The difference between the two performances (other than Santana going deeper in the game than Schilling, 6 innings to Schilling’s 4) is that the Twins scored 7 runs for Santana while the vaulted Sox batters could only muster 1 run for Schilling. Luckily the bats will wake up and Schilling will bounce back.
Yesterday was only 1 out of 162, just watch the tape and study up on Texas. Also, is it harder to face a hitter who is patient at the plate and runs up the count, or is it harder to face a more talented player with less patience at the plate (like Tejada)?
You deserve great credit for getting right on line and leaving a blog entry after a rough outing, Curt…especially when so many jackasses in the press are somehow linking your mound performance with the fact that you maintain a blog like around 56,000,000 other people. I suppose sportswriters are threatened by any athlete articulate enough to compete with them on their own turf. Please keep it up.
By the way, my son, a 12 year-old Little League catcher, is also named Grant. I salute your good taste in names.
Thanks for the blog-age. Hopefully next time will be more fun for you. Good thing that day ended and the sun still came up bringing a new day eh? There are lessons in the vid of your innings that you’ll benefit from I’m sure. Did I read somewhere, ‘pitching to contact’? Never mind that -just pitch and you’ll be fine.
Dont sweat it pal your not alone, just look at the pitchers across mlb yesturday they all had there problems aside from Felix but its the first game of the season, alot of players are still getting into game shape, I have no doubt in my mind you’ll rebound from this outing, good luck through out the season Curt, I’m behind ya
What game were all of you watching? Are talking about the Yankees comeback win or maybe the outstanding pitching performance by the young guy in Seattle. Cuz you sure weren’t watching the Sox on opening day.
Curt is a big boy, making big money. If you think for one moment that your sappy, out of touch comments are gonna pick him up, you’re sadly mistaken.
Hey Curt, here’s what you need to hear, SUCK IT UP and PITCH! You want another contract, you wanna play next, than prove it.
We don’t need to hear you whine about not having command. My 1yr old son knew you had no command and every sappy poster in this room knew you had no command.
Can you make your second outing Curt Schilling-esque.
Love the Sox, hate to lose!
Win your next one and everyone will forget about it. Heck, win two and you’re off to a good start!
Steven Ellis
http://www.stevenellis.com
Curt,
Tough day, but we will see plenty of great ones this year.
I thought you were tipping your change-up yesterday with a slower delivery, but maybe you were overthrowing the FB???
Get it straightened out please. We need you.
Curt,
When you play the home opener, it will help get things back in sinc. From watching a lot of opening days, it seems that it is harder to fire on all cylinders in the road openers. Anyway, its a long season and your work ethic will prevail.
We’ll continue to root for the Sox in NC!
PreacherAndy
Kudos for posting this blog. Tough game, but I am sure you will get back on track. It’s only one game. I am looking forward to your next start, and I feel bad for the next team you face…
Again, thanks for your insight.
All the best,
Mike
Hamilton, NJ
It was the first game of the year and as disappointing as it is to have it go the way that it did Im sure the next start will be better. You are too stubborn to have it any other way
Hey Curt,
I’m new to the blog and I’m a absolute diehard Sox fan and a big fan of you. I must admit watching the game was very difficult as it seemed not much was working on the mound or from our hitters. I’m terrible as a fan because I let losses get me DOWN…couldn’t sleep tossing and turning until 1a.m. thinking about the game.
But of course it’s the 1st game of the season and means very little in the scheme of things. Have complete confidence in the Sox and that your next game will be a gem.
The Sox Nation is behind 100% Thanks for your honesty and contribution to the Sox and Boston since you came here
That was flat out embarassing. I saw in an interview you said that you like when people say you can’t pitch anymore and that you like to prove them wrong…. boy did you show them yesterday. How are you going to pitch against the AL East when your getting knocked around by the formidable KC lineup?
Paraphrase byTony Massaroti of the Boston Herald, “Each team will win 60 games and each team will lose 60 games. It’s what you do with the other 42 that count.” Not to worry, yet dude. I hate to be the next team you pich against. Payback is a bitch.
Hi Curt,
Hey we all have bad days now and then no big deal… Take it out on the Rangers this weekend! Keep up the good work!
Gary
OK, Monday wasn’t much fun , but you weren’t the only guy from the Red Sox out there. The offense has to man the oars too and they didn’t look all that scary yesterday. You’ll have better days ahead.
Most sports personalities and managers regurgitate safe, meaningless comments when asked questions. You’ve been refreshingly blunt since we’ve welcomed you to these parts and the candid words are as appreciated as your pitching and leadership. Good luck Sunday!
Pete
Not a big deal, you needed a shut-out anyway, I think the lack of offense is a bigger concern right now. I know it’s only 1 game, but a lot of those bats were cold all spring.
You have to take your hats of to K.C. though, they played well. I haven’t even heard of 3/4 of their players. The K.C. fans were out in force, too - I know it’s opening day and the Sox are in town, but it’s nice to see the fans supporting their team like that when they lost 100+ games. I guess their GM knew what he was doing when he signed Meche, how many Ks did he have?
On a side note, if I hear one more idiot say you need to spend more time concentrating on baseball and less time blogging I’m going to explode. I just don’t understand the Boston sports media, why would they want to cover teams and players they actually hate? Why do they rip on fans for being (gasp) fans of their teams and players? It’s madness. No wonder newspaper sales are in the toilet.
It looked like your delivery was different from previous years. Is that just on the change/breaking pitches?
hey Curt,
just get pumped up for next game and go get em! God bless!
first time posting here. yeah, yesterday outing was pretty rough, but know that you have alot of red sox fans here supporting you
Hey Curt-
I was just curious as to what you do between innings or even between pitches to try to adjust when you feel that you don’t have your A game with you. Also, I know you have said before that one inning doesn’t effect the next, but when the game is over what do you do to make improvements/adjustments in your pitching for your next outing. How much does your previous start (good or bad) effect your next one? Good luck on the rest of the season!
-Matt
Hey Curt-
If it’s any consolation, I had a bad day at work yesterday too. From the moment I walked into the office and walked out, nothing seemed to go right, rather ironic for waking up refreshed and not dreading the drive to work for a Monday. I guess the point I am trying to make is that we can wake up, get an early start and now matter how prepared- the returns on our performance are less than adequate for that outing. You’ve never struck me as a person who repeats himself in a negative way (i.e.-giving up a 4 run lead to the Yankees in 04′-don’t think that has happened again). As in life, we have all sorts of instances which are unique in their own way and they can either impact us in a positive or negative manner.
You have at least 25 to 30 more chances to have a good day at work this season.
My best-
Eric
Good news theres still 161 regular season games left. Now, it’s time for Beck to pick us up.
Don’t worry Curt, I have faith that you will bounce back, actually I know that you will bounce back from it. Don’t be so hard on yourself just go out there and work harder the next time. You can only get better from there. It is still early in the season and you guys still have a chance to be on top.
Its always the first start and the last start of the season that always seem to mean the most but come October, no one will remember that you had a rough game on Opening Day. You know what went wrong, I am sure you know how to fix it or someone there knows how to fix it, its done and over with, looking forward to the next start
Hey curt, dont worry about the start its just 1 game and everyone has a bad day. i live in texas and will be thier sunday night to see you dominate the rangers on sunday night baseball live on espn. ill be cheering loud as i can from first baseside and hope you do great….u have always been one of my favorite pitchers and i cant wait to see you live for the first time. Long live the red sox’s!!!!!!!!!!!
Curt,
Thanks for that feedback, and don’t let the bums get ya’ down. As a Royals fan it’s good to see your assessment of yesterdays game.
I’ve always been a fan of the way you approach the game.
Keep on keepin’ on.
Stevo in KC
Yeah, that was pretty brutal. None of us in the room - and that includes Jerry Remy - could ever remember you walking a run home before. (Turns out you did it in ‘05 - go figure.)
The really bad part about this is that I emailed my Yankees fan buddy in the 4th inning of their game to rag on him. That may have been premature. I have ten emails from him right now that I don’t have the heart to read.
I told my sister if she gave birth yesterday she had to name her daughter Grudzielanik to atone for her mistake - obviously this was her fault; she distracted all of us by going into labor - so she held off until this morning.
You’ll kill ‘em next time, dude. We still believe.