Humbled and Honored... A Day Which... Shawn Voelker

A day which still lives in infamy for me ~~~> November 10, 2011.

     So, to explain better -- My twitter friends Ronnie @BgRedRedemption and Kevin @InTheGapShirts (check this site out) are always on twitter and do a ton of cool charity work. They also create, design, and market sports apparel, which the proceeds go to charity. As you can tell, some really good guys.

     One day I read a tweet about a raffle for a @shawnvoelkercom original painting. (check him out) He was going to do a Sam LeCure picture. Me being a big Sam fan, I had to buy tickets. (I would have no matter what, it was for a great cause.) Shawn found out I bought more than just a few and did something very special. Shawn put my name in his painting. He mentioned that the name represents all Reds fans. (I hope to live up to that responsibility.)

Here is the original painting

You can't see my name in this image, but my name is upside down on the ball glove where the manufacturer label normally is stitched.

Here is a pic of my name

My twitter avatar background has not changed since that day. It never will again.

Sadly, I did not win the original painting. I did purchase a print, just need to get it framed.

Thanks Ronnie, Kevin, and Shawn - all I can say is AMAZING Gentlemen. One of my most prized memories in this Reds Fans life.

Thanks all and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

Sabres 12/16/2011 - Reds too, in a weird way!

Good morning all. It's been quite some time since my last blog. Days seem to run into each other and time passes like it was never there. I've had some great experiences but just haven't had the time to write about them. Friday night was another great day in the life of this Sabres Reds fan.

Alicia (my sweetie) and I went to Buffalo, to the First Niagara Center, to see the Sabres v. Maple Leafs game. We got to the arena early because I needed to track down Sabretooth for a photo. See, I told someone I wa going to incorporate my other big fandom of the Reds into a Sabres photo. So, like a little kid, I'm walking around First Niagara, looking for a big furry mascot of the Buffalo Sabres.

About 30 minutes before game time I finally found Sabretooth. My girlfriend and I were eating but left the food behind to get this photo done. I tapped Sabretooth on the shoulder and asked if I could get my photo with him/her. Sabretooth was more than happy to indulge me.

The shirt I'm wearing in the picture is something I won from a twitter buddy named Jamie Ramsey. Jamie handles media relations for the Cincinnati Reds. I contacted Jamie Friday, basically to razz him a bit about a cool bobble head he has named Burt. Anyone in the Reds Nation knows Burt is Jamie's next of kin, an awesome bobble, and off the market for give away!

So, I mentioned I'd get his Better Off Red shirt in a photo with the Sabres mascot Sabretooth, to show him how much the BOR shirt and Reds meant to me.

So here it is:
http://twitter.com/#!/Tonester5/status/147832113067073536/photo/1

Like the Christmas Carol for Frosty the Snowman - there must have been some magic in that "BOR Shirt" I wore, because the Sabres defeated the Maple Leafs 5-4.

Thanks Sabretooth
Thanks Jamie
and thanks to everyone who reads. Thanks from the Cheap Seats.

Pawtucket v. Syracuse 8.25.2011 Memories

I have a great story to tell - please read.

     Last night, I took my girlfriend Alicia and her 9 yr old son Sean to the Pawtucket Red Sox v. Syracuse Chiefs Triple A baseball game. (Our neighbor and friend, Bill gave us the tickets from his boss) Sean and Alicia are huge RedSox Nation fans. Before the game, Sean got four autographs from Pawtucket players; Lars Anderson, Will Middlebrooks, Royce Ring, and Michael Bowden. We wished them good luck and thanked them all.


     After pregame warm-ups, Sean starts waving to Daniel Nava for an autograph, so I spoke up to get his attention. I gestured to Daniel, making a writing motion, to see if he would give Sean an autograph. Daniel takes the ball he warmed up with and tosses it to me, catching me off guard, I catch it, and hand it to Sean. Sean and I thanked him a couple times and wished him good luck! He said no problem and thanks. Daniel went 2 for 4 with a 1b, 2b, sac bunt and 2rbis. 

     So, to the 6th with the Pawsox tied at 2-2, Alicia says Sean and I are hungry, let's get ready to go. I said ok, sure. Then Sean says he wants to go to the bounce house behind the right field fence. We go down, toss the ball to see our speeds, he shoots some hoops, and bounced in the house. Sean threw 34mph and I tossed one 64mph. Not bad.

     We get back to our seats, it's the top of the 8th. Pawsox rally to get two more runs, 4-2. We are considering leaving but don't because I have a couple raffle tickets. I don't win but we decide to stay until the game ends anyway. 

     In the top of the 9th Luis Exposito, the Pawsox catcher, hits an opposite field Grand Slam over the right field fence. Sean runs to find the ball. I follow a little behind him and help him find the ball. We had the grand slam ball for a couple minutes!!!

     One of the Pawsox relief pitchers climbs over the right field fence and asks us for the ball because it's Exposito's first career GS. So, Sean says sure, no prob. We go back to our seats. The pitcher calls Sean to the bullpen and hands him two baseballs in return for his nice gesture.

    Pawsox win 12-4, Sean gets 3 baseballs, and he walked out of the stadium 10 feet tall with a smile from one ear to the other. The whole night was filled with kindness received and kindness returned. 

    Sean's Daniel Nava ball still has not come out of his catcher's mitt! He slept all night with his mitt, with the ball inside. That my friends is love for the game. What a night of memories for all three of us.


I may have to become a Paw-Boston-Red-Sox fan! Okay, they can be my 3rd team!!!!


Lets go Reds!

Thanks all and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

Reds In the Nations Capital and Sabres Excitement

     Good afternoon all. Tonight marks the first time the Reds will face their former teammate, Jonny Gomes, since his trade deadline move to the Washington Nationals. JG was an outstanding RedLeg no matter what his stats say. I hope JG hits at least one big fly tonight, as long as the Reds win the overall game!!!!! Playoffs or bust --- I'm content realizing the latter is most likely this year. It's been a great ride. Lets Go Reds!

     On the hockey home front, the Buffalo Sabres are the talk of every town in New York. I'm more excited for this upcoming season than I've been in a few years. The Pegula regime has created a huge buzz with the purchase of the Sabres, the overhaul of the HSBC arena for the players locker room and workout facilities,  the buy out of the Portland Pirates minor league hockey contract, and pruchasing the Rochester Amricans to reunite them with the Sabres for real hometown talent growth.
     If you are a Sabres fan and aren't frick'n stoked, for the Sabres upcoming 2011 season, please go to your local hospital and check in. You need to have your pulse checked because your are probably not breathing.

I've got one expectation for this season - Playoffs first round series win. Anything better than that is cake baby! Lets Go Sabres!

Thanks and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

Interview @BgRedRedemption with Reds Matt Klinker, Women's World Cup Win, & Devils Win!

Great interview with Matt Klinker, a young pitcher in the Reds organization. Good read and great guy. http://www.bigredredemption.com/?p=160 

Kudos @BgRedRedemption (twitter handle)

Shout out to the USA Women's Soccer team for the win over Brazil. Abby Wambach, local Rochester native, with the tieing header goal in the last second! not seconds, second. Megan Rapinoe to Abby W - what a GOOOAAALLLL!  http://youtu.be/JOAJn8h6VAI   Hope Solo with some nice saves as well. The ladies won in a shoot out 5-3. Great job Ladies, keep making the USA proud. Good luck in your upcoming matches.

     In personal news: Devils 9 Angels 7 - Evil wins over Good, again!!! My team the Devils won a hard fought game versus the Angels on Sunday July 10, 2011. Clear skies, 85 degrees, good pitching, better hitting, some defense, and tons of fun.
     My Devils are now 4-3-1 at the half way mark of the season. This is the first time in four years, with the team, that we Devils have been over .500 at mid season. Whispers of playoff talk are passing through our ranks. Great job fellow Devils
personal line - 2-4 2 singles, 1SB, 1K, 1ground out. Threw out base runner in top of 6th to shut down Angels base stealing game.

Thanks all and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

July 4th Smiles

     On July 3rd my twin sons were at a local festival celebrating the upcoming Independence day, July 4th. This festival was held at the Geneva American Legion. A local newspaper reporter saw my sons playing an amusement game where you use a mallet to strike the lever and ring the bell. The reporter was so taken back by the boys eagerness to play the game and their American flag shirts, she asked for permission to photograph them for the paper. Of course permission was given and the photo was taken. Little did their mother know but the photo was used for the front page story of the July 4th edition of the times. http://twitpic.com/5mgxrt

I smiled all day and still am thinking about the picture.

Thanks all and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

I'm Your Huckleberry - @InTheGapShirts (twitter)

     Good morning all. I'm sporting my brand new "I'm Your Huckleberry" Sam LeCure t-shirt from In The Gap Shirts. This shirt looks really good on me too! http://twitpic.com/5jg3c5  http://twitpic.com/5jg3wx

     Reds fans should really check these shirts out. They are well made with independent creative logos of some players you won't see on other shirt sites. Tell them I sent you, they will HOOK YOU UP! @InTheGapShirts on twitter & web site link http://inthegap.spreadshirt.com/

     The Reds start a three game set with cross state rivals, the Cleveland Indians. Probable pitchers are as follows:
Arroyo v. Masterson
Bailey v. Carmona
Leake v. Talbot

     I see three wins in the Reds future and all coming at the expense of the Indians. Tonight starts the beginning of the Reds run to defend their 2010 NL Central Title. I'm all in! Hopefully the rest of Reds Nation is on board as well.

Thanks and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

Follow Sam LeCure - Last day to get to 10,000 followers

     Good morning/afternoon baseball fans, dropping a little note to try to stir some activity up for "following Sam" day. In case you are not aware, Sam LeCure is a pitcher with the Cincinnati Reds. He made his Major League debut last season on May 28, 2010. He has been a  very good spot starter and reliever in the Reds bull pen since that day.

     A couple weeks ago Sam (@mrLeCure) tweeted, if he was to get to 10,000 followers by June 30th, he would give one lucky follower a giveaway of some sort. I.E. Signed Ball, Signed Picture, or maybe even a couple tickets to meet him and go to a Reds game at Great American Ball Park. (disclaimer for Sam and I ---- I'm not exactly positive what the final determination was on the prize.)

     I met Sam briefly, back in the beginning of June, while he was on a rehab assignment with the Louisville Bats. He was gracious enough to take time out of his warm ups to sign baseballs for my friend Jeff and I. From that first impression and his tweets, Sam is a stand up guy, who is willing to give back to the fans. Take a moment to view Sam's account, If you like what you see, click "Follow" to help him to 10,000 and a lucky fan to get a great gift. (I'm deeming myself ineligible for the giveaway, based on all my promotion the past couple weeks. It's the least I can do, to thank Sam for the signed ball and quick chat that day at the Syracuse Chiefs ball park.)

Check out the pics on my blog and you'll see Sam plastered all over. I'm a 15yr old kid, stuck in a 40 year old body, when it comes to baseball. hehehehehehe

I appreciate the time. Thanks and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

Reds in Tampa

     Good afternoon. Just a quick rant for game two of the three game set with the Rays. Tonight's starters are the clear cut #1 guys for both teams, the Reds Johnny Cueto versus Rays David Price. I'm not sold on the fact that the game will be a pitching masterpiece but stranger things have happened. Either way fans of both teams are in for a great game.

     My Reds Pick to Click for tonight's game is Drew Stubbs, and if for some reason he is not in the lineup, I'll take Jonny "Fauhawk" Gomes. My third pick will be Sam LeCure out of the bull pen to shut down the Rays in latter innings.

Lets go Reds. Thanks and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

Interleague, New Stuff, and Devils Baseball

     Friday June 17, 2011 begins the next set of Interleague games for the Cincinnati Reds. Reds Nation will be hosting the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Yankees. Each team will play three game sets, the next six days, in Great American Ball Park.

     The Jays bring a huge slugger in Jose Bautista, last seasons MLB Homerun King. Let me tell you, @JoeyBats19 (on twitter) can flat out smash a baseball. Last season, family and I saw him hit his #49 HR, out of Fenway off of Josh Beckett. For those who do not know Fenway, there are signs at least 40 feet higher up above the monster. Bautista hit his homerun 20ft over the signs, on to the top of a parking garage on the other side of the street. Estimated distance was in the 450ft neighborhood. http://twitpic.com/5cqvzm   http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=12217953            Lets Hope Joey does not break that whoop'n stick out at GABP.

     As for the Bronx Bombers, this is the first time in eight years that the Pinstripers, hopefully candystripers, will play in the Queen City. Everyone knows the overpaid stars on this roster. The bad thing for Cincinnati fans is that Derek Jeter will not be playing. DJ went on the 15 day DL earlier this week with a strained calf and possible ankle issue. I have to say it is a shame we Reds fans will not get the opportunity to see the Captain of the Yankees play. He may not be back out to the Nati with the limited amount of playable years left in him and the possible MLB realignment. I do respect DJ's play and his respect for the game of baseball. Boston Fans close your eyes! http://twitpic.com/5cr14l   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhrVnoISIkE&feature=related Happy Fathers Day Dad, a huge Yankee Fan.

     On a couple side notes - I purchased my Sam LeCure "Huckleberry" TShirt this morning. I cannot wait to get it and wear it around NY! Want to see more go to http://www.inthegap.spreadshirt.com/ or check them out on twitter ~~> (@InTheGapShirts). Tell them I sent ya, they will hoooookkkk youuu UP! Reds fans, seriously check'um out. You won't be disappointed.

     Devils Baseball - My team the Devils lost last night, at the University of Rochester, to the Twins 15-11. It was a slugfest that my team came out on the short end. The Twins killed it in the first three innings. My Devils clawed back the next four.  Lets just say that the hitting definitely outclassed the pitching and defense!!!
My personal stat line - 2-3 2 singles(1 bunt & 1 rope), 2 runs, 2 stolen bases, and 1 swinging K.

Post comments or questions. Thanks and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

To answer Jeff's question - The quote "I'm Your Huckleberry" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KfbAFgD2mLo is from the movie Tombstone. Doc Holiday covered (relieved) for Wyatt Earp, in a gun duel where he shoots and kills Johnny Ringo. Sam LeCure is an up and coming relief pitcher for the Reds. A Gunslinger, if you will. So, basically the quote means when Sam comes into a game to pitch, the hitters are going down like Ringo, so to speak! I hope that helps with your understanding of the shirt quote. Thanks for the question.

Stress, Issues, Changes, and Baseball

Good morning all.

     The last few weeks have been very hectic for my family and I. We recently moved into a new place and let me tell you this, If I ever have to move again, the stuff (junk) gets left behind and buy all new! One never realizes the belongings that accrue over time, until you have to pack all of it and move it somewhere else!!! Moving has to be one of the most stressful times in any persons life. Holy Moly!

     Seems lately the only escapes I have from stress are baseball and time with my sweetheart (some of you know my sweetheart). Baseball is all around me, from playing in a competitive fast pitch all wood bat league, to tweeting online about the Reds, to wearing baseball apparel seven days a week, and talking about something baseball related every waking day. It's everywhere, every day (look at my blog page!). I get lost in the games, sights, sounds, words, and all the stress just goes away.

      Lately, my companion and I have not been dealt well with the stress in our lives and that tends to send our conversations into arguments. Mostly because of my ODC and sometimes lack of good judgement. I know the old saying is "It's a two way street," but things are more my fault than hers. I'm not positive but maybe it's a midlife crisis, male menopause, or being hard headed. I'm going with hard headed. The hard thing about me is there is a part that always has to be right or always has to get a point across, even if that means not letting her express her opinion or view point. I know this frustrates her and not quite sure why I can't or won't change. So, the answer is yes, I'm hard headed.

     The long and short of this blog is that baseball will always be around me, it can't get up and leave. On the other hand, my companion can leave and will leave, if I don't do something soon to look hard and long to make changes to myself. I really do love her and care for her, it is never intentional to make her upset, but for some reason anything I say or do seems to end up just that way. Hopefully writing this blog will help me understand where I need to make changes and help our relationship. I better do it quick, or baseball will be the only thing I have and we all know that is not enough.


On a Reds side note, one of my twitter friends posted a great tweet this morning, hopefully he does not mind if I post it on my blog. He was right on the money.
http://twitpic.com/5cbabg

Thanks all, have a great day, and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

Tonester's Sports Tales: Reds, Bats, New Friend, and Devils Baseball

Tonester's Sports Tales: Reds, Bats, New Friend, and Devils Baseball: " Good morning all. I'm coming to you live from a nice place on this planet, not so much this morning as there is rain, cool temps, and c..."

Reds, Bats, New Friend, and Devils Baseball

     Good morning all. I'm coming to you live from a nice place on this planet, not so much this morning as there is rain, cool temps, and clouds. As some of you may know I am on twitter (@Tonester5) and have a great bunch of followers. The vast majority of these followers are Cincinnati Reds fans. (No one knows that I too am a Reds fan. Keep that quiet, don't want anyone to find out!!!!!)

      Lets reminisce back to April 2010, when many baseball experts had the Reds finishing no higher that third in the division. As we Reds Fans all know, the Reds team raked in wins all season long and won the 2010 NL Central Title. This was an accomplishment only a few of us die hard Reds fans even saw as a remote possibility (I predicted the title win on April 6, 2010). We all celebrated like school kids getting out for summer break running around, yelling, jumping, and boasting our teams greatness. All was well in Reds Nation, even though our team was swept by the Phillies in the playoffs.

     Excitement for this season was at an all time high for me and many other Reds fans. Talk was about how young our team is, how much talent we have, and totally about winning. Recently, I've had a hard time reading some of the tweets from my fellow Reds friends. Now, all of a sudden, the talk is not that the team is very good or awesome, but exactly the opposite. To the point that some players are not as good as we need and the team is bad. My question to all Reds Fans is: How did some of us go from being positive and excited, to being down on our boys and negative in the span of a couple months?

     My mantra is to be positive all the time, because the fifteen years prior to 2010 we Reds fans didn't have much to cheer about. Just think, we could go back to the years of finishing last or second to last in the Central. I for one, like where the team is and in no rush to go back to the bottom of the league. REDS NATION - stay positive. The team is very good. Lot of games left, they will be on top soon. I'm calling it now, mark it down.

     On Thursday June 9, 2011, I met up with a fellow Reds fan (@jgranger) to attend a Bats v. Chiefs Triple A baseball game in Syracuse, NY. I had never met Jeff in person prior to the game. We only tweeted each other from time to time, and made plans to meet up to see our Farm Hand Reds. My girlfriend and Jeff's wife both asked us the same thing, "What if you meet the guy and he is an Ass?!" Our answers were pretty similar in that we could both fake it to see the game at least!!!! LOL All that being said, we had a blast and I have a new friend, his name is Jeff Granger (he's the guy in the Jay Bruce jersey!). http://twitpic.com/59oq9t  We are going to try to make going to a game a tradition. I'm in.

http://twitpic.com/59jfnc Corky Miller and Sam LeCure warming up pregame.

http://twitpic.com/59jguy  http://twitpic.com/59olcx Sam singed my baseball. Great pitcher and even better person. I'm officially Sam's biggest fan. (geesh, I'm just a little kid at 40)

http://twitpic.com/59jkl7 Louisville Bats players autographs.

http://twitpic.com/59onjv Sam pitched one inning of scoreless baseball, 3 up 3 down.

Yonder Alonso hit a Homerun that hasn't come down yet. The guys fought the entire game and almost pulled it out, but the Bats lost 4-3. (Jeff, thanks for the great pics.)

     On a lighter note, my baseball team the Devils beat the Padres 7 to 4. It was our first win over the Padres in my 4yrs on the team. The game was by far the most solid all around defensive, offensive, and fundamental game we have played this season.

     My stat line - 2-5 2 singles, 1 run, 1RBI, 2 ground outs, and 1 big swinging K. I injured my right heel in the 6th inning and played hurt the rest of the game. I'm still gimpy but not going on the DL. Next game Thursday at the Univ of Rochester.

Feel free to post any comments or questions. Thanks and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

Reds Outfield Issues, Home Plate Collisions, and Devils Triumph

     Currently the Reds are in the midst of struggling to get wins. The team has won only two games in their last ten. Losing three series match ups to the Pirates, Indians, and Phillies. The pitching is getting beat, the bats are somewhat cold, and the outlook for wins has some serious questions.

     The one bright spot for the Reds has been Jay Bruce through this whole losing issue. JB, over his last ten games, has hit for the following stat line: 19 of 43 for .442 BA, 6HR, 15RBI, 9R, 3BB, only and 7Ks. His season stats are OBP .353, SLG .556, and OPS .909. Since May 16th, the rest of the outfield has only accounted for 4RBIs during the recent skid. One thing you can readily see, no team is not going to win many games when only one outfielder is producing out of five.

     Jonny Gomes has been benched, Fred Lewis and Chris Heisey only get spot starts, Drew Stubbs is a lead off hitter on pace to strike out 188 times this season, and Jeremy Hermida is in AAA Louisville. Some one needs to step up to help fill the outfield production void soon or this season is going to be long and monotonous. (I have not even talked about the issue at Short Stop) Reds fans, we need to keep the faith and do our best to give these guys support to turn the corner.

     If you are a baseball fan, you already know about the injury to Buster Posey, an outstanding young catcher for the San Francisco Giants. He has been lost for the season to a horrific broken leg and torn legitimate damage. Buster was blocking the plate to try to stop Scott Cousins, of the Florida Marlins, from scoring and as Posey tried to field the throw to home Cousins collided with him. During the collision, Posey's Left ankle was stuck under him and twisted violently to cause the season ending injury.

     The collision/injury has sparked a huge debate within the Baseball community calling for changes to the current blocking the plate, runner catcher collision topic. Some are calling for drastic measures from not allowing catchers to block the plate, all the way to not allowing runners to crash into catchers for any reason, meaning mandatory sliding. Then on the flip side of the coin there are people that don't want any change to the current rules.

     I am one of the people who believes that the rules should not be changed. Every catcher that has ever strapped on shin guards, chest protector, and helmet knows there will come a game where a collision is going to happen. There are also base runners out there that look for the opportunity to make that collision happen and hope they can knock the ball free from the catchers clutches. No matter how the collision occurs, collisions at home plate have always been around.

     Here is my thought line as a lifetime catcher in baseball (biased). Home plate is the only base on the diamond that is protected by a player in equipment. You do what it takes to stop a runner from scoring. The catcher(soldier) is protecting the plate(homeland) to stop the other team(enemy) from scoring. Some enemies will hook slide(flank) and some will crash (9/11) into the catcher. Either way, you deal with the outcome, injury or not. So, just because a young up and coming player gets hurt on a play at the plate, doesn't mean rules should immediately be changed.

Post any and all comments, no matter what your opinion is on this subject.

On a personal note - my baseball team, the Devils, won Thursday night by the score of 9 to 3 over the Storm. My Devils scored 9 runs on 12 hits with only 2 strike outs. Our Pitcher, Rick D., threw all 7 innings surrendering 3 runs on 6 hits, striking out 6. My personal stat line - 2-2, 2 singles, 1 BB, 1 SB, 2 Runs, 2RBIs, and threw the only attempted base runner out at 2nd in the fourth inning. Dennis Quaid's character Jim Morris in The Rookie said "You know what we get to do today? We get to play Baseball!"

Thanks all and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

Seven Run 6th Inning Beats Down Cubs

May 16, 2011 - The Reds literally whooped the Cubs into submission in one half of an inning. In the bottom of the 6th inning Carlos Zambrano and Marcos Mateo gave up 4 singles, 1 double,1 walk, and 1 HR. The Reds burst out for seven runs in the inning. http://t.co/BwRHexJ

In the top of the eighth the Cubs threatened to score but Drew Stubbs threw a strike from center field to gun down Alfonso Soriano. http://t.co/1C1HhRj

The battery and solid defense completely took the air out the Cub's sails. Reds 1 Cubs 0 to begin the series.

Great Job Team - Lets Go Reds

On a side note: In late April I predicted that the Red Sox would be at the .500 mark by Memorial Day. I was wrong, the Red Sox got to the .500 mark this past weekend after sweeping the Yankees in a three game series. Good job Sox. For my Lish.

RIP Harmon "Uh Oh" "Killer" Killebrew - http://t.co/ocEdVQ8

Thanks and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

SWEEP - Reds beat up on Cardinals, Carp Controversy

     May 15, 2011 - Chris Carpenter started the third game of the Reds Cards three game series off with his normal complaining. In the past couple of years, some Reds fans have begun to call him "Crying" Chris Carpenter. Crying Carp was complaining about the mound condition, at Great American Ball Park, shortly after he threw a few first inning pitches. However, the condition of the mound did not seem to bother any of the other pitchers in the game. Weird, how that happens?!

     In the third inning, Ramon Hernandez hit a big home run off of Carpenter. Fireworks were shot off from the GABP river boat stacks to celebrate the hit, as are all Reds home runs celebrated. Carpenter said in after game interviews that the smoke, from the fireworks, was a contributing factor to his pitching problems during the game. No other pitchers, that have given up Reds home runs, have ever used this excuse.
    
      Both of these so called "contributing factors" that caused Carpenter's pitching woes on Sunday, can be debunked by simple stat analysis. Lets look at Carps line for the 2011 season so far.

Games Started - 9
Wins - 1
Losses - 3
ERA - 4.95
WHIP - 1.49
Innings Pitched - 56.1
Hits Allowed - 67
Runs Allowed - 35
Earned Runs - 31
HR allowed - 7
BB - 17
IBB - 3
SO - 42
HBP - 3
WP - 1
BF - 251

     To the naked eye or casual baseball fan, nothing probably sticks out as overwhelmingly bad. To the serious baseball fan, there are several stats that jump out as if they have yellow highlighter on them. This season Carpenter's ERA, Whip, Hits Allowed, Earned Runs, and Base on Balls are all glaringly high, in comparison to past years.

     The stats show that the problems are far worse than bad mounds and fireworks smoke. The "real factors" are that Carpenter is up in age, his abilities are diminishing, and  he is not throwing like an ace. Instead of complaining or making excuses for his bad pitching, maybe Chris Carpenter should man up and accept the truth. The problem is that he has been complaining for so many years, he probably doesn't remember how to take actual responsibility.

Pujols hit by pitch update - Coco said in an interview he was not trying to hit anyone. He wanted to get Pujols out because he knew the Holliday and Berkman were on deck. Albert admits that he knew Cordero was not intentionally throwing at him. The issue has been excercised, this room is cleeaarrr!

Great SWEEP of the Cards this weekend.Lets Go Reds!

Thanks all and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

He Shoots, He Sccooorrreesss! 5.1.2011 Bin Laden Dead

Please watch the attached link before reading my blog. Thanks much.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K8j8LpwDo7Q

    
     My article is titled as such because my U.S. Air Force Military American being is grateful this horrible person has been deleted. Yes, DELETED, not defeated. My many Thanks, to the Navy Seals responsible for the final removal of the target.

    
     I want to believe and I need to believe for closure of my war experience. I want to go to sleep at night without the nightmares. I would like to be able to tell my children "the bad man, who helped the jets crash into the big buildings, is no longer a problem." We would all like to live in peace without fear of terrorism. Can we?     

    
     A small part of me has mixed emotions. Do we all finally get to sigh a big breath of relief or will someone else step up to take Bin Laden's throne? How can I or we be reassured this actually occurred? Something in me says this seems all too surreal. In this day and age of political propaganda hopefully it's not another ploy by our government to win popular support, with a year plus before a presidential election.

     Anyone else have thoughts they would like to share?

Sabres 2010-2011 - What a Season It Was!

     Good morning friends, fellow fans, and accidental readers. If you are a Sabres fan you know the season ended last night. Philadelphia came out in the first period with a fire that the Sabres just couldn't put out. The Sabres did get a moral victory as they scored two goals in the third period but it was not enough. The Flyers won in a strong contest 5-2, advancing to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

     I tip my "Fan Hat" to the Flyers, Sabres players, the coaches, fellow fans, and new Sabres owners - the Pegulas. What a great ride this season has been. Hard to believe the season is over and my playoff beard has been shaved off (my face still hurts). Let me be the first to say, "Look out Loretta" for the Sabres in the coming seasons. The future is bright and I look forward to riding the roller coaster all over again.

Reds, Bills, and Devils blogs are forth coming. MLB is moving along, the NFL draft is tomorrow, and my NABA Baseball season starts May 1.  Lets Go Reds. Lets Go Buffalo Bills. Lets Go Devils.

Thanks and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

Sabres Come Up Short, Reds Controversy - Pitching, Leake

     4/19/2011 - I was hoping this blog would be about good players, good play, and wins. I guess that is my "perfect" world! Last night both of my favorite sports teams took losses. The Sabres lost to the Flyers 4-2 and the Reds lost to the Pirates 9-3.

     The Sabres had some players that you could see working very hard and some players that were kind of out of sorts or ghosts on the ice. Standouts for the Sabres in game three were Nathan Gerbe, Brad Boyes, Marc-Andre Gragnani, Drew Stafford, and Tim Connolly. All of the fore mentioned players worked hard and certainly made solid contributions during the game. I don't like saying this but the Ghosts were Jason Pomminville, Thomas Vanek, Steve Montador, Rob Neidermeyer, and Patrick Kaleta. They were on the ice, they were in the game, but something was wrong with the intensity or style of game last night that left me wanting more from their play. More intensity or more discipline, maybe both.
(I rescind my statement about Patrick Kaleta - I was unaware he was hurt in last night's game)

     Buffalo took a couple bad early penalties and the Flyers made the best of them, netting one power play goal to go up 1-0 early. The Sabres fought back to tie the game with a power play goal of there own. The Sabres played with incredible ferocity for most of the first period. The Flyers were hemmed in their end of the ice for the last nine minutes of the period. I was without words at that point, the Sabres were playing possessed. The rest of the game was a different story.

     The second period was taken over by the Flyers. They scored two very opportunistic goals, taking a 3-1 lead and kept the Sabres off balance almost the entire period. Buffalo netted their second goal of the game late in the second to go into the second intermission down 3-2. The third period was more of the same from the Sabres and Flyers. The Sabres pressed to get the tie and the Flyers tightened up the defensive ranks and burned the clock. There were only three or four real scoring rushes put on by the Flyers, who were certainly trying to protect their goal tender and the game lead. The Sabres put on some late pressure but were outdone when the Flyers netted their fourth goal on the Sabres empty net near the end of the third, to win 4-2.

     Philly fans sighed in relief knowing they regained the home ice advantage and Sabres fans were sighing a groan of disappointment. The Sabres need everyone on the team to show up for game four, in order to win, not just a few. Game four is on Wednesday 4/20/2011, puck drop at HSBC Arena is at 7:30pm EST. For this Sabres fan the new motto is "pack a lunch, roll up the sleeves, and lets get dirty."  Lets Go BUF-FA-LO!

     The Reds lost to the Pirates 9-3 on Monday night and lost the series 1-3. The Pirates hit very well, taking advantage of every opportunity given to them. The Reds pitching seems to have some confidence issues and maybe also a bit of distraction. To the team - us the fans are behind you, the organization is behind you, and you have the talent to produce wins. Never doubt any of that for a second.

     As for the distraction, Mike Leake, was the focal point. Yesterday at 2:30pm EST Mike was arrested on possible theft charges. http://news.cincinnati.com/ No formal statement has been released by the Reds organization as to the penalty that Leake may face from the team. Speculation at this time is a five day suspension and one missed start without pay. The civil penalties could be more harsh. I'm not condoning what he did, I'm not saying he is innocent, and not saying he is above the law, I'm just saying we fans should not overload his twitter account with bad stuff. When the smoke clears and we find out the total story, then we can make our own judgements. I hope for Mike's sake it's not as bad as it seems right now.

     Their is a nation of Reds fans that have cheered and supported Mike Leake through pitching Wows and injury woes. Mike is about to lose the respect of all of those fans, if he hasn't already. Lets hope he can make things right, so maybe Reds Nation can give him a second chance to regain the respect lost.

     One last thing, Aroldis Chapman, a highly touted rookie relief pitcher for the Reds, threw a baseball 106MPH. That's right, it's not made up, 106MPH. Holy Batshizz Batman! He broke his own MLB record of 105MPH. Check below for a picture of the speed, click on it for the link to his video.

Thanks all and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

Game 3 Sabres v. Flyers

     Good morning all. The Sabres are coming off a pretty rough performance in Game 2, that saw thirteen penalties taken by the Sabres, for a total of twenty nine penalty minutes. The Flyers capitalized on two power plays, won the game 5-4,  to tie the series at a game apiece.
    
      This game is very pivotal for the Sabres as they try to regain home ice advantage over the higher seeded Flyers. The biggest question is goal tending, but for both clubs this game. The Flyers have to decide who to start. Do they go with youth in Sergie "Bob" Bobrovsky, who was pulled in game two, or go with the experience in veteran Brian Boucher? The younger "Bob" is more athletic and can make very acrobatic saves. Boucher is more of a technical goalie without the flash. Do they stay with the youngster or go with the vet? We must not forget Michael Leighton in the background also. Who will Laviolette choose?
    
     The question in Buffalo is not who to start, but how will Ryan Miller bounce back from adversity. He gave up five goals on thirty four shots last game. Ryan is known as a mentally well prepared goalie. He has carried this Sabres team and the U.S. Olympic team, both resulting in team and Olympic MVP awards. There is no doubt in this Sabres fan's mind, Ryan Miller has already filed last game in the past. This game is a new sheet of paper for him to create another masterpiece.

     There is one more thing Buffalo fans are thinking about, will the team be more disciplined this game or will the tricky Flyers pull them into bad penalties again. I realize any edge you can gain can turn the tide of games or a series, but someone else had to see that the big burly Flyers went to the ice too quick, a few times last game. Seems the Flyers players may be trying out for some other Olympic sport, diving! Lets hope the Sabres have conditioned themselves for this tom foolery and do not fall for the Flyers antics again.

     I urge all Sabres fans going to the game or watching the game, to wear  the colors, yell, chant, and be supportive for the team tonight (I'm sure we all will). We, the fans, can be a big motivating factor to help our beloved Sabres take the victory tonight and change the series momentum. Lets Go BUF-FA-LO!

Thanks and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

Sabres Playoff Game 1 - In The Books

     Good morning all, game one of the best of seven is in the books. The Sabres steal home ice advantage on a 1-0 shutout by Ryan Miller. His second career playoff shutout. Everyone watching the game last night can see Ryan is healthy and prepared for the intensity of playoff hockey. Patrick Kaleta scored an opportunistic lone goal in the third period for the Sabres. His second career playoff goal, first of these playoffs, and hopefully more.

    The Sabres and Flyers both played with fierce intensity. The Flyers put thirty five shots on goal tender Ryan Miller, some were heart stoppers for Sabres and Flyers fans alike. The Sabres put twenty five shots on Flyers goal tender Sergie Bobrovsky. He stopped twenty four of them. The Sabres PK killed off four penalties, including a 5 on 3 for :38 seconds. The keys to the game were surviving the short handed chances, Ryan Miller standing tall in net, and the Sabres keeping the Flyers off balance at both ends of the ice. All in all, the game was a roller coaster of emotions for both teams fans.

    Game two is Saturday night in Philly, opening face off puck drop at 5:00 pm est. I'm still wondering if last night was a dream or reality. Someone pinch me please, just in case! Good luck to the Flyers and Sabres.

Lets Go BUF-FA-LO!

Thanks all and Cheers from the Cheap Seats!

A New Season - Sabres Playoff Hockey

     Good morning all. I hope it is sunny and warm where ever you may live. The sun is out here which is always a plus.

     Today is finally here for all Sabres fans. Today begins the new season for 2011, the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Sabres may be a seventh seed but in the realm of playoffs, anyone can beat anyone at any given time. The team has overcome their fair share of adversity to get to this point. The Sabres have what it takes to make a deep run in the playoffs this season, lets show complete support for the team, no matter if we are at the games or in our living rooms. We Sabres fans need to get #letsgobuffalo going as a trending topic on twitter today! Anyone with me? I'm all in.

     My next thought is about what the vibe is like in the city of Buffalo this fine morning. My thinking is that most are feeling the same way as me; excited, psyched, pumped, stoked, and so forth. My ramble can go on and on. So  please tell me, are there any Sabres fans not excited for tonight's game? If you are not feeling any of these feelings, please have someone take your pulse to make sure you are alive!

     For all Sabres fans who will be at the game tonight in Philly, have a great time and use good judgement to get home safely. I will be there in spirit but watching from home. Trust me, you may here me yelling good stuff or semi bad stuff depending on how the game is going.

Lets go BUF-FA-LO!

Thanks and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

Sabres Playoff Anticipation, Reds, and Red Sox

     Good afternoon friends, fans and accidental readers. Tomorrow starts the first round for the Sabres v. Flyers 2011 Stanley Cup playoff series.  My anticipation level for this series is higher than the ozone layer. If it got any higher, I might float out of the atmosphere to the moon!

     The Sabres are coming off some very good wins at the end of the regular season. The offense, defense, and special teams were playing as well as any team in the NHL. The question being asked of Sabres fans is about our goal tending. There seems to be some speculation that Ryan Miller looked slow in the last two games he appeared in, and there is wonder if he is totally healthy.

     I'm not one of the people wondering about Ryan's health or if he is rested. Lindy simply did what he had to do to change the momentum in the Flyers game on April 8th. The next game Lindy split time evenly between Ryan and Jhonas, so both got some game action prior the layover before the playoffs start. Trust this Sabres fan, Ryan Miller will be completely ready for the playoffs. I'm predicting at least one shutout, maybe more.

One thing left on this subject - Good Luck Sabres and Lets Go BUF-FA-LO!

     The Cincinnati Reds are finishing up their series in San Diego tonight. They have taken the first two games of three, so the series win is already a lock. A win tonight will just be icing on the cake and help solidify the lock on the NL Central lead. I know it's early, but a good start to the season is better than the alternative.

     Shout out to my friend Christian. He's a big Padres fan and just as passionate about his team as I am about mine. We made a friendly wager for this series. Who's ever team loses the series has to sport the winner's team logo for three days on FB and Twitter. We know who won this go round. Pretty sure we will wager again later down the road. Thanks for being a good sport Christian.

     The last tid bit is about my girlfriend's Red Sox. She is having a hard time being optimistic about the team getting on the winning track. I've been supportive for her during this rough season start. I keep reminding her there are several reasons to be very optimistic for the Red Sox to right the ship and seriously contend in the AL East.
1. Signing arguably two of the best free agents from the past off season. Carl Crawford and Adrian Gonzalez  - perennial all stars
2. Two words - Josh Beckett. His last outing was absolutely the best he has pitched in two years. If he pitches like that most of this season, look for him to win between 15 to 17 games. Take it and run.
3. Dustin Pedroia is healthy after last seasons injury issue. He is hitting lasers, playing great defense, and using his up beat presence on the field, in the dugout, and in the locker room to keep his team mates up as well. Remember this guy has a silver slugger and an MVP to his credit, need I say more.
4. Fenway Park and the fans. There is no better field to play in as your home field to provide huge fan support and the high possibility of scoring runs in bunches. When you have both of those attributes available, they simply translate to wins.

    I'm predicting right now that the Red Sox will be .500 or better before Memorial Day. If they aren't, then worry might be in the cards.

Thanks for anyone who reads and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

Baseball Greats (Maybe) - PES - Do We Want To Know?

      I'm watching the Tampa Bay Rays put a solid beat down on the Boston Red Sox. During the ESPN broadcast the announcers Aaron Boone, Rick Sutcliffe, and Sean McDonough are flat out killing Manny Ramirez about his recent failed test and retirement. To be honest, I have never liked Manny for any reason and did laugh pretty good at the comments. Still, the comments bring up some good things to talk about on the current Performance Enhancing Substance (PES) conversation.

     Every baseball fan has heard, read, or watched modern day Baseball become a venue to ruin PES players reputations. This starts with players such as Mark McGwire, Rafael Palmerio, Sammy Sosa, Barry Bonds, Brady Anderson, Jose Canseco, Jason Giambi, Andy Pettite, and Roger Clemens. The list goes on like several rolls of toilet paper. They all used, they all excelled, and they all have been named in reports of substance use.
   
     Why were these players allowed to use for many years with a blind eye to the use? Was MLB closing their eyes and ears? No one in the Governing body of the MLB was complaining when these players were hitting fifty home runs, hitting five hundred foot shots in games or All Star showcases, throwing tons of strike outs, pitching no hitters, or breaking historic records. The time that the PES use took place was opportunistic for Baseball to regain popularity lost. Fans did not complain, including myself, although we all kind of thought something was "up"! So, why do we shun these players now? I'm not quite sure. Maybe because we don't want to admit we liked the players doing what they did, no matter how they went about becoming that good???!!
    
     Recently, Manny Ramirez voluntarily retired from baseball after testing positive for a performance enhancing substance, steroids. This is Manny's second go round on the amusement park ride. He did have options, stay in MLB to serve a one hundred game suspension, or retire from the game. He took the low road and left. He has nothing to want for in concerns of money. What legacy does he leave to the game? Probably none at all. He probably will never be voted higher than five percent on any HOF ballot. If that is true, he will fall off the ballot, with no chance of making the HOF. Does he deserve to be in the HOF? His numbers say most likely, but we know after this recent turn of events, there is no chance.

     The long and short of PES is that from 1994 to 2005, PES was acceptable in MLB. Sometime after the 2005 Congressional hearings about PES and the release of the Mitchell Report in 2007, the use of these PES's became unsatisfactory. Maybe the whole issue is a bigger issue than just players doing what they had to do to gain an edge over other players. Maybe it gets right down to the fact of most people, it's not cheating unless you get caught. So, does that mean if you don't get caught it's okay? Does it mean if you do get caught a lynching mob should be dispatched to get you? So, honestly, do we fans want to know who else has used PES? Will the use change our outlook or perception of our favorite players?

If you have a point of view, post a comment. All are welcome. Thanks and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

Reds First Week, Sabres Playoff Picture, and a bit more..

       The highly anticipated Baseball opening week has come and gone. The Reds are 6-3 after the first nine games of the 2011 season. The team has a calm confidence not seen from a Reds teams in the past seven to ten years. Buzz about the Reds is not just in Cincinnati, a lot of baseball people across the nation are talking about this team.

      The pitching staff is looking very good, even with a couple rough outings. Young guns Travis Wood and Mike Leake have both had one solid start and one shaky start. Ace of the staff, Edison Volquez, is having some small issues in the early innings of his first two games, but as the game goes he settles down to do some good work. The crafty veteran of the staff, Bronson Arroyo, looked very good in his last outing, battling a decent D-backs lineup. Homer Bailey and Johnny Cueto are getting healthy and will be making starts in AAA Louisville the middle of April. There is good reason for all Reds fans to get excited every time one of these guys stands on the hill.

      The bull pen looks like a solid set of stoppers that will shut down opposing offenses in the late innings of games. Every type of pitcher from crafty off speed to filthy breaking stuff to blow you away with speed pitches in this mix. Here is a list of the guys in the bullpen: Sam LeCure, Matt Maloney, Nick Massett, Bill Bray, Logan Ondrusak, Jordan Smith, Aroldis Chapman, and Francisco Cordero.

      The battery is above average to excellent and already looks like a very good run producing offense. The lineup boasts speed, plate patience, clutch hitting, and flat out home run power from the lead off spot to even some of our pitchers. Here is the roster list: Drew Stubbs, Brandon Phillips, Joey Votto, Scott Rolen, Johnny Gomes, Jay Bruce, Paul Janish, Ramon Hernandez, Ryan Hannigan, Edgar Renteria, Miguel Cairo, Juan Francisco, and Chris Heisey.

Dusty Baker and the coaching staff have done a great job bringing this team together.  Hopefully they will just continue to get better as the season moves forward. The Reds will be a force to reckon with all season long.

Lets get to the Buffalo Sabres. The Sabres are heading into the Stanley Cup Playoffs as the seven seed in the Eastern Conference. They are matched up against a very tough rival in the Philadelphia Flyers. The two teams split the season series 2-2. The Flyers won the first two games and the Sabres won the last two games. The Flyers were certainly better than the Sabres early this season, but Buffalo was the top point getting team in the second half of the season. The playoff series is going to be a close hard fought set of games. I'm making my prediction now, Sabres come out on top in 6 games, winning the series 4 games to 2. I'm sure a couple of my friends, who root for the Flyers, will argue that prediction with me and maybe have a friendly little wager.

Congratulations to Charl Schwartztel - 2011 Master's Champion. He gets the Green Jacket, his first PGA tour win, and his first PGA Major all in one.

Hope everyone has a great day. Thanks and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

Good vs Bad - Thoughts from a Good Sabres fan

Last night, via twitter, @akrygier mentioned that Sabres fans are with a direct twitter quote; "I don't mean that I think the #sabres are good, they are clearly not. buffalo is a shit-hole and their fans confirmed that one-by-one." This statement really miffed this Sabres fan. I'm not all knowing when it comes to matters of fan perception.  However, time has taught this fan at least one thing. We all have come across certain people who wear the same colors and emblems, but are not what we would consider the same as "us" in our fandom.

My thinking on @akrygier 's statement was the saying; "One bad apple spoils the bunch." That statement does not always hold true. Things one witnesses at a sporting event or reads from an online statement can be easily perceived out of context. The person directly speaking slurs, causing the problem, or creating the statement may not be thinking the same way as the person that sees or reads the aforementioned happenings. We should always keep in mind there are good fans and "bad apple" fans. To consider all fans "Bad" because of an adverse interaction is not fair to those who are good fans.

For the record, this fan has never and will never bully, voice derogatory slurs, or become physically violent  in any matter pertaining to a sporting event outcome. Sports are what they are, children's games and entertainment for fans. Don't get me wrong, I'm very emotionally attached to my favorite teams. To quote @akrygier: "spare me the pontification", I and all of my fellow Sabres friends, are good fans. Please take time to be open minded, realize not everyone is "everyone."

Take care and Cheers from the Cheap Seats.

Gerbe Vanek Magic Locks Buffalo Sabres Into 2011 Playoffs

April 8, 2011 Buffalo Sabres v. Philadelphia Flyers ~ The game started out as a defensive struggle. The Sabres gave up one goal in the first period. The second period was a bit more exciting, edge of your seat, type of play because four goals were scored, two by each team. The Flyers took a 3-2 lead at the end of the second period. I tweeted at that time the following "@Tonester5 #Sabres have heart, they will persevere - Will Win!" Not to be gross but I also streaked naked through my house to try to change the vibe for the Sabres. (think it worked)

The momentum changer of the night was Lindy Ruff's decision to pull young goalie Jhonas Enroth, who did not play badly, and insert Ryan Miller into goal at the beginning of the third period. The Flyers players must have looked down toward the Sabres end of the ice and thought "Great, we have to get a puck past him this period? WTF!" The Sabres played the entire third period like it was there last. Halfway through the period the Sabres made a nice entry into the Flyers zone with speed and nice puck handling. Steve Montador passed the puck to Thomas Vanek who passed and found Nathan Gerbe on the right side of the net(if you are looking from behind him toward the goal), Nathan did a Denis Savard style spin-o-rama and lifted a backhander up  at the left corner of the goal, he hit the iron and we heard that slight PING as the puck went in the net. That tied the game at three goals each. What came next was something I've never seen in a game with the implications that this particular game had. Looking beaten, the Flyers retreated to there own blue line and did not chase the Sabres for the puck for almost the last :40 seconds of the game. It was like the Flyers wanted the Sabres to get into the playoffs, which the tie gave Buffalo a much needed point in the standings and locked the team into the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

The stunt the Flyers pulled at the end of the third period came back to bite them. One minute sixteen seconds into the overtime period, a streaking "O' Captain, My Captain" Thomas "Golden Hands" Vanek netted the game winning goal, splitting two defenders at the blue line, and beating Flyers goalie Sergie Bobrovsky with a nifty backhand shot. The Celebration for Sabres Nation became even more ecstatic. I ran around the house clapping and yelling "He Scoooorressss!", in my best Rick Jeanneret voice.

I was so sure last night was a dream, that I pinched myself to make sure what happened was true. It hurt too! All I know is being locked in the playoffs is so much better for my stress level. Sabres Nation say it LOUD "The Buffalo Sabres are in the 2011 Stanley Cup Playoffs!" Eastern Conference be warned, Buffalo is going to bring the pain ~~~~~~> at whoever stands in their way. Lets Go BUF-FA-LO!

The Cincinnati Reds did not fair too well last night. The Arizona Diamondbacks put a smack down on the Reds 12-2. Joey Votto went 2-4 with a HR in the 9th inning. Paul Janish was the only other Red to have more than one hit going 2-4 at the plate. Travis Wood had an off night, his line was 5ip, 7h, 6r, 2w, and 4k's.  Matt Maloney had his first rough outing, from the bull pen, which his line does not need to be discussed. I have confidence that Matt will bounce right back and toss some shut out innings. No worries fellas, every next game is a new start. Go get um tomorrow. Lets Go Reds!

Thanks all, hope everyone has a safe and great day. Cheers from the Cheap Seats!

Sabres Look To Make Playoffs Thanks To Youth 4.8.2011

Excitement, nervousness, faith, hard work, commitment, perseverance, scratching, clawing, intensity, and more.... Tonight's game between the Sabres and Flyers is all of the previous words all in one game. Earlier this season none of the hockey experts really gave Buffalo a shot at going to the playoffs. The Sabres started the 2010-2011 season very rough. The team had more losses than wins and were struggling to reach .500. Derek Roy was our top scorer and then he was lost for the season due to injury. No one would have guessed that prospect players like Tyler Ennis, Nathan Gerbe, Cody McCormick, Chris Butler, Jhonas Enroth, Mark Mancari, Mike Weber, Luke Adam, Paul Byron, and Marc-Andre Gragnani would step up to score goals, make plays, throw fists, block shots, make saves, check everything in sight, fill roles, and propel the Sabres to the verge of making the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Some of us faithful fans had ideas (hopes) that this would/could happen, but pretty sure none of us knew the young players would contribute as much as they have this quick.

I predicted to my significant other and friends, before the beginning of the season, the Sabres would be tough to play, win games, and make the playoffs as an eight or seven seed. I did not take into account losing our top center for the season, getting rid of our short time captain, going through a myriad of injuries, and have eleven players on the roster under or at the age of twenty five. With a win or tie tonight, my prediction might come full circle and really happen. I've had my fingers, toes, and MagicRedShoelaces crossed all morning. They will continue to be crossed until first puck drop. All I have to say is: LETS GO BUFFALO!!!!

I have a couple shout outs:

Congratulations to Luke Adam - Sabres/Pirates - AHL Outstanding Rookie of the Year - great Job Adam, look forward to seeing you in Blue and Gold soon!

Good Luck to the Cincinnati Reds in D-back land. @LeonardBrains - D stands for Done! as in - Reds win, get it done!

Good Luck to the Boston Red Sox - hope they get off the schnide. I finally said it Lish!


Hope everyone has a great day and Cheers from the Cheap Seats!

Reds, Sabres, and most certainly more.

4/7/2011 - Cincinnati Reds fans are higher than kites over the 5-0 start to the 2011 season. The Reds beat the Astros last night after being down 4-0 at one point. Edison Volquez is struggling in the early innings and then settling down in the later ones. Edison pitched 5 innings giving up 5 hits 5 walks 4 earned runs, and struck out 8. WOW! The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly all in one outing, but still got the "W". The Reds battery had 14 hits, not one being a homerun, and still scored 12 runs. Standouts at the plate were Brandon Phillips 3-4, Joey Votto 2-4, Jay Bruce 2-5, and Paul Janish 3-5. Great job with the wood guys.

The Sabres had the night off, giving the team some much needed rest. The Hurricanes won 3-0 to pull within two points of the Rangers for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Quick Shout out to Rochester native Ryan Callahan ~ sorry to hear about the season ending broken leg. I love seeing you on the ice, except against the Buffalo Sabres. Best regards for a speedy and healthy recovery.

To my main point this morning, I'm not a political man by any means. I served my country in the U.S. Air Force, Persian Gulf Vet 90'- 91', and am damn proud of that fact. My main beef with the recent news about the pending government shutdown is in reference to our men and women in arms overseas. The shut down will in affect, cut off their paychecks and put their families at risk of having no financial stability. On the flip side of the coin, our federal politicians will still get their salaries, which in my opinion are too damn high. How can we, as Americans, allow or justify the cutting off our military members from their financial life line and watch our lazy, snobby, and self centered politicians get their monies. I say we need to throw out the current government, start fresh, and get some people in office that represent the everyday ordinary common man. Everytime I read or listen to our government woes and short comings, it makes me realize one thing, in this day and age an honest man cannot get a fair shake from any of our elected officials.

To quote Jim Garrison, "This is not the country, today, in which I was born, and is certainly not the country in which I want to die in."

Thanks all, I get a little edgy from time to time. Have a great day.

Reds v. Sabres - and a bit more

Good morning everyone.

Last night was a huge night in Buffalo, as the Sabres beat the visiting Tampa Bay Lightning 4-2. Two points closer to punching their ticket for the 2011 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Thomas Vanek paced the team with a 3 goal night, collecting his first Hat Trick of the season, and 6th of his career. Tim Connolly had a goal and two assists. "My Name is Jonas" - Jhonas Enroth had 23 saves on 25 shots, he is now 3-0-1 in his season saving last four games. Patrick LaLime continues to ride the pine, hhhmmm! We all know why, does "can't stop a Beach Ball" mean anything!? Great work guys, keep diggin'.

The Cincinnati Reds hosted the Houston Astros last night, they went on to beat the Astros 8-2, to start the season 4-0. The Reds were paced by a very good first outing, on the hill, by starting pitcher Mike Leake. He went 6 solid innings, gave up 3 hits, 2 earned runs, 2 walks, while striking out 4. The Reds battery was paced by Drew Stubbs 2-5ab 1 run scored 1 stolen base,  Joey Votto 2-4ab 2 runs scored 1 RBI, and Brandon Phillips 2-2ab 1 walk and 3 runs scored. Brandon Left the game early after what was described as an awkward slide at home. There has been no formal statement as to the injury type or severity. All of RedLegNation hope the injury is minor and that Brandon will be back out on the field at second base soon, with old school pant legs up and RedStockings showing.

Everyone have a great day. I hope it is sunny where ever you are, Cheers from the Cheap Seats!

Sabres v. Reds - Quick Rant

Today the excitement going through my being was almost uncontrollable. Actually it was uncontrolled, I blogged during my morning lunch. Now, while sitting here listening to the Reds and watching the Sabres, my excitement has turned to fidgeting, cheering, yelling, and stressing.

This little rant is happening during the first intermission of the Sabres v. Lightning game. The Reds are up 4-0 over the Houston Astros. The Sabres are tied 1-1 with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Lets Go Reds! Lets Go BUF-FA-LO!

If you are new to my blog thanks for viewing. I've added some of my Favorite Blog links. Check them out if you have time. Thanks Friends.

Double Dipping - Reds and Sabres

I've been sitting here trying to hold back my excitement for the past four hours. This time of the year is so awesome for my sports addiction. Baseball and Hockey are the best sports on the planet, hands down, no if ands or butts. From the beginning of Baseball spring training to the end of the Hockey Stanley Cup Playoffs, I get to watch or listen to both sports. Of course my two teams have not had much playoff success in the past few years, but that is all about to change.

The Sabres have been purchased by a true fan of the sport of Hockey, Terry Pegula. Since his ownership started, the vibe in all of Sabres Nation has been unbelievably awesome. Huge things to come for the Sabres organization, team, and fans in the next few years. Let me not jinx, but dare I say Sir Stanley in Buffalo not too far off in our future. Lets Go BUF-FA-LO!

The Reds are so full of exceptional young talented players, our cup runeth over. The vibe in RedLegNation has been overwhelming since mid way through the 2010 season. I'm not trying to be obtuse by this comment, but there was a funny feeling in all Reds fans this spring - EXPECTATION! The Reds have started this season off at a 3W-0L pace. I predicted earlier this spring the Reds would win 86-90 games and possibly win the NL Central in back to back years. That has not happened since the 75-76 Big Red Machine. We shall see what happens over the season, but I'm all about it.

Good Luck today Sabres & Reds. I'm with you through thick and thin.

First Blog Post - Lets Do This.

Today is April 4, 2011. I'm officially stepping into the Blog Waters! All my friends will tell you my favorite teams are the Cincinnati Reds and Buffalo Sabres. I'm VERY passionate about my favorite teams. Although there is a limit to how or what I'll do for those passions.

On Sunday 4/3/2011, I was watching the Buffalo Sabres v. Carolina Hurricanes game and was on twitter at the same time. During the game some tweeps were poking fun back and forth between Sabres and Canes fans. It all seemed harmless at the time. One of my retweets was taken a bit out of context, which can happen easily online, and certainly had good reason for that out of context perception.
A twitter tweep, who I did not know until Monday morning, was a part of this poking fun. Unknown to me, this person was assaulted by a Sabres Fan in the parking lot after the game. She was walking with friends when she was verbally and physically harrassed. The Sabres Fan said some vulger things, grabbed her, and when she defended herself by trying to push him away, the fan punched her in the face. She had her nose broke and suffered a concussion. She was in the emergency room for two hours, rather than being in the comfort of her home settling down for the night. The good thing is that there was a Police Officer near and the assaulting person was arrested, will pay for all medical fees, and was taken to jail.
I hate the fact that the person was a Sabres fan. Any Sabres fan that is violent toward another teams fans is a terrible person and not worthy of calling themselves a Sabres Fan. No one should resort to violence for any reason, espcially when sporting events are involved, no matter whether your team wins or loses. It's a sport for our entertainment, not for us to take out our anger.
There are a couple good things that have come from this incident. Writing about the incident to raise the awareness to stop violence at sporting events and I have a new Friend who is a Carolina Hurricans fan. Best wishes for a speedy recovery.