The Pittsburgh Peas

'She's Out of My League' knocks it out of the park

2010-03-16T16:08:49Z

If you've been watching TV at all this weekend you may have seen a preview for this movie. To the naked eye it may just look like a typical romantic comedy. However, that generalization is way off. It is a typical romantic comedy that takes place in Pittsburgh!

The main character Kirk (Jay Bruchtel) is an average Joe working as a security guard at the Pittsburgh International Airport.

This got my blood flowing immediately. I love to travel and always travel out of the Pittsburgh airport at least once a year. It was filmed directly in the airport which was very genuine and realistic to the context of the movie. I've been to airports across the country and Pittsburgh ranks near the top with its atmosphere and charm.

Kirk, working by the metal detectors comes across a beautiful woman, Molly (Alice Eve) going through security. While the other security guards are hitting on her, Kirk resists and acts polite which in return gives him a beaming smile courtesy of Molly.

Once boarding her plane, Molly relaizes she left her iphone back in a security bin. Using her friend's cell phone she calls it, Kirk has it in his hand.

The end up meeting in each other at the Andy Warhol musuem in downtown Pittsburgh.

Now I'm not the biggest art buff, but I do think enough of myself to know something is good when I see it. Warhol is well respected in the art world and his creative mind is on display here in his hometown in his own musuem. The musuem is located just steps away from PNC Park on the North Shore. I have never been there but it is a goal of mine to check it out this year.

Anywho, back to the movie. Molly is a high ranking event planner in the city and has connections across the 'burgh. She offers Kirk Penguins tickets, on the ice!

Surprisingly this beautiful girl is really into this self proclaimed dork. The two end up seriously dating and go on other dates around the city.

They eat at this beautiful river side cafe and walk through a park that is very similiar to Central Park. But the icing on the cake and the one you all have been waiting for-the couple goes on a date to a Pirate game.

Let me just say my shrieks of joy could be heard throughout the 300 seat theatre. It was awesome to see a beautiful roundabout shot of the stadium. The cameras started out by the river and slowly gravitated upward for a perfect area view of the beautiful stadium. The couple walked across the Clemente Bridge in the Centerfield entrance.

The movie was very good, very funny. With its R rating I do not suggest it to some of you as raunchy humor may not be your thing. However, for a There are breathtaking views of the downtown area and really just presents a great perspective on the Steel City.

photo credits: imdb.com,visitingdc.com, flickr.com, movies.yahoo.com, iguogo.com

Mountaineer Baseball is underway

2010-03-13T19:57:21Z

After a sloppy start to the 2010 season, West Virginia University's Baseball game finally was able to get a game in.

Tuesday's matchup with Duquesne was called due to wet conditions. After being covered in over two feet of snow WVU's Hawley Field was cleared off thanks to rain and valiant efforts by the coaching staff and players.

Opening Day finally occured Thursday evening against Bryant. Ever heard of them? Don't worry, I haven't either.

I asked a family with Bryant gear on where they actually were located. Turns out they are from Rhode Island, very close to Providence. I joked and said "I though it was Kobes school." The lame joke was actually was recieved by the Bryant faithful, who had a son on the theam, in fact the father even said "It'd be nce to have him nearby, we could use his money."

From my perch in the pressbox I witnessed a thrilling 7-5 victory for the Mountaineers. At the time it was their fourth victory of the year after playing games in Florida and SOuth Carolina to open the season. SInce then WVU dropped a double header to Manhattan on Friday.

It will be a long year for the Mountaineers especially after losing seven seniors, all of whom had a major impact on offense the last four years, If it hopes to compete West Virginia will rely on Morgantown native Jedd Gyorko.

Gyorko may sound or look familiar, he was on the front page of MLB.com for a draft preview. The shorstop may just be at the top of many draft classes as he is a top player. The junior has two home runs on the year and is batting .333. He leads the Mountaineers is slugging at .571.

He has put on weight and is bulking up to add even more power to drive the ball to all corners of the field. For his draft stock to rise he will need to be better in the field and add speed.

Saturday's game was rained out but I am hoping to get it in Sunday at 1 pm.

photo credits: msnsportsnet.com

Tippin' their hats and callin' the Pirates their daddy

2010-03-10T00:06:05Z

Sorry Pedro...

And sorry Yankees...

Ya'll are much better currently and historically than the Pirates, but give me time to enjoy a win.

The Buccos defeated the Yanks 12-7 on Tuesday, but most impressive was what was done in the first inning.

Andrew McCutchen got things started with a single.

Ronny Cedeno...a single also.

Lastings Milledge brought home McCutchen with a double.

Then this guy...

Made it rain!

Jones blasted a three run homer off none other than CC Sabathia. Sabathia got rocked in two innings pitched giving up seven hits and five earned runs.

It was nice to see us do some damage against Sabathia. The Pirates totaled 15 hits against NY, the most of the spring. It wa salso nice to out hit a team for a change also, the Yanks recorded just eight.

Charlie Morton, anticiapted fourth starter, had a decent outing with a three inning showing on four hit ball. He did give up three runs, but struck out a pair.

By the way, that Garrett Jones picture, photo shopped by yours truly. I got the program for my brithday and have been playing around with it.

Tomorrow it is Pittsburgh-Baltimore live on FSN Pittsburgh.

photo credits: nytimes.com, espn.com

A case of the Mondays

2010-03-08T23:02:24Z

For the first time this spring the Buccos held their first split squad games. Both teams were in action today against the Yankees and Rays.

New York and Tampa Bay both defeated the pair of Pittsburgh teams.

The Yanks shut out the Pirates 6-0. Steve Pearce recorded the only hit of the contest for the Bucs, a single.

Pearce has long been heralded as the next big thing in Pittsburgh, however his time is running short.

In 2007 after just one season in A ball, he made the jump to the majors, swiftly moving through the system. It was just too much too soon as he was overwhelmed at the plate and at first base.

Last season he spent a majority of the season in AAA Indianapolis setting career highs in every offensive category. It was not the same story in the majors. In 60 games in Pittsburgh, Pearce batted six points over the Mendoza Line with just a .206. He lacked power that he showed throughout the minors just hitting four homeruns.

He has a chance to make the team out of camp but that most likely will not happen. There is a heated battle for the last bench spots and Pearce will be one of the odd men out.

The Rays and Pirates played their way to 10 innings, but TB outlasted the Bucs 4-3. Brian Friday hit a homerun for Pittsburgh.

In a similar, yet completely different scenario, Friday is in a "Pearce like position." For about the last two years he has made a name for himself in the minors.

With the major league roster jammed with infield talent (Ronny Cedeno, Delwyn Young, Akinori Iwamura, Ramon Vazquez) Friday will need at least another year in the minors to develop.

The Rice University product spent last year in AA Altoona. He hit just .265 but is said to have a great glove. By showing pop in his bat today he may just be "the guy" at second in say 2012.

The Bucs will bring the team together tomorrow when they face the Yankees yet again.

Remember me issuing my excitement for Tuesday's WVU baseball game? Well it was postponed due to the snow still on the field. It is melting rather quickly as temperatures reached the mid-50's in Morgantown today. But I hear the field is wetter than the Everglades. They may be able to get in Thursday's game however.

To hold me over these next three days I have Wednesday to look forward to. The Pirates take on the Orioles Wednesday at 7p.m. The game will be televised on FSN Pittsburgh. My buddy Andrew is a big Orioles fan so we will enjoy watching this game together.

photo credits: espn.com, pirates.scout.com

A 2-0-1 weekend

2010-03-08T00:02:03Z

The Pirates competed in a trio of ballgames this weekend in the Sunshine State.

They did not lose a single game.

The jolly roger was raised for the first time this spring training season on Friday in a 5-3 win over the Orioles.

One of my favorite prospects in the organization is catcher Tony Sanchez.

I was able to catch one of Sanchez's very first minor league games in person back in Youngstown, OH. He was with the State College Spikes facing my hometown Mahoning Valley Scrappers.

He is a very likeable fellow coming out of Boston College.

In his very first spring training at bat, Sanchez belted a solo homerun off Baltimore's Troy Patton.

Sanchez is just 21 years old, eight months older than me. It is very funny that someone my age is one of the hottest prospects on a major league ballclub. I guess it is really not too much to fathom as I am a year from graduating college surrounded by Division 1 athletes at one of America's top sports universities.

Sanchez will probably begin the year in AA Altoona, but will find his way in the 'Burgh by 2011.

On Saturday the jolly roger may have been raised, but just halfway.

The Pirates and Philies played their way to a 3-3 ten inning tie.

The reining National League champs got hot right off the bat with two runs in the first inning. Pirates starter Kevin Hart looked very sloppy. He looks to be the 5th starter in the rotation so he really needs to hone his mechanics for the remainder of March.

The bottom of the first inning let the Pirates match the Phils, in fact they one upped the boys with Brotherly love. The Buccos scored their only three runs of the contest in the first frame. Ryan Church delievered a two run home run.

On Sunday's day of rest, the Buc's bats did anything but. Pittsburgh destroyed absolutely destroyed Minnesota 15-5.

Bobby Crosby gave a good audition for the starting shortstop position with a four RBI performance.

Crosby belted a 3-run homerun while going 2-for-3. It was great to see this guy come through. Whether starting or on the bench he will be vital to the team's success. Garrett Jones also connected for a homerun, his first of the spring.

The weekend was fun filled with Pirates baseball.

On Sunday it was 30 Clubs/30 Days featuring the Pirates on MLB Network. I think the broadcast team led by Matt Vasgersian really brought to light the hope and promise of the Bucs. They were valiant to praise the efforts of Neil Huntington and the restocked minor league system. They also had good interviews with Lastings Milledge, Andrew McCutchen and Paul Maholm. McCutchen also had a "wired-in" segment with him playing around with teammates comparing his speed to Usain Bolt (a stretch) and hitting an opposite field homerun into the Allegheny River at PNC Park (a bigger stretch).

This weekend I also recieved a package I have long been anticipating.

My Dave Parker poster finally came! I saw this on ebay for a nice price of seven bucks and could not pass it up. It is actually a 7-up ad from the early 80's. I'm sure the cobra will be so proud to know a college id knows who he is and that the Pirates pride is still stemming from the "We Are Family" days.

On Tuesday I will get the opportunity to see live baseball for the first time in a while.

The West Virginia baseball teams hits the recently snow vacated field to do battle with Duquesne. I once again will be the beat writer for the school newspaper covering the team.

photo credits:piratebox.com, AP/sportingnews

Buccos fall to Braves and bitter McLouth.

2010-03-04T22:08:12Z

Two games in. Two losses

The Pirates lost 2-4 at the hands of Atlanta on Thursday. The Pirates have put up miniscule hits these past two days, recording just four against the Braves. Compared to the five hit by Atlanta, I guess it should not be too big of a talking point.

Two of the Bucs reaching base safely were new additions. Ryan Church and Bobby Crosby.

Church got the start in right field, but should not be too commended for his effort. He struck out twice while getting his single in three at bats. Over the weekend I called in to a local sports talk station. The guys were talking about off-season accquisitions by the Pirates and failed to mention Church. I chimed in expressing my interest in him and that he could be a central part to our team. They agreed and complimented me, a good feeling considering I am not a frequent caller to these type of shows. I normally just like to sit back and listen. The show was Sunday during an intermission of the USA-Canada hockey game and I was lucky enough to be directed straight to the show. I did watch the game and if anybody else did I hope you were listening intently at the very beginning of the first period. Announcer Doc Emerick dropped a Pirates mention saying "I bet the Pittsburgh Pirates are glued intently to this game." Perplexed I was, but later found out Emerick is a huge Pirates fan. The New Jersey Devils announcer earned major points in my media heroes book.

Crosby had a decent day at the plate. With two outs in third he ripped a single through the infield bringing in a run. It was the first tally mark of the afternoon for the Pirates. It was the only noise he would make in his three at bats.

Andy LaRoche hit the first homerun of the Spring Training season for Pittsburgh. His solo shot in the 7th was the only other productive at bat in the contest.

The underlying storyline heading into this ballgame was the matchup against former Pirate centerfielder Nate McLouth.

The 2008 Gold Glove winner was the first Pirate traded in last summer's infamous fire sale. A shocking move to the city of Pittsburgh and the entire baseball world as McLouth just inked a long term deal with the club in the offseason.

In an interview with Jennifer Langosch Nate announced his disdain for the Pirates organization. Here is a sample of what he said.

It feels good to be in an organization this year that's going to be in a playoff hunt and not have to talk about 'We hope years down the road ...' and things like that. It's good to have that feeling in Spring Training.

It was tough, but I was kind of lucky that I was the first one to get sent out and I didn't have to deal with it the whole summer.

If I was in Nate's position, I certainly would be a bit ticked and I understand what he is saying. At the time I was unsure of the trade, but it can pay big dividends for the Pirates. We got a starting pitcher (Charlie Morton) and a centerfield prospect (Gorkys Hernandez) out of the deal. It makes me happy theat McLouth is not down playing that situation. He truly wanted to be a Pirate and felt betrayed by the organization. Some say it is still a stupid move, but it really was not.

Our outfield now is one of the youngest and most talented in the National League. McLouth refused to move to left field when Andrew McCutchen would be promoted and that may have pre-empted the trade in the first place. McLouth's numbers also dropped considerably when he was in the ATL.

In 85 games with the Braves, McLouth batted a mediocre .256 and hits 11 home runs, bringing his total up to 20 for the year. His on base percentage dropped a handful of points from the year before and his OPS was .773, the second lowest in his five year career.

It is hard to tell what the short and long term effects of the trade will be. The duo the Pirates recieved from Atlanta has yet to pan out. In sort of a fitting manner, it was Morton that started the game for Pittsburgh. He had control issues walking three batters (including McLouth).

photo credits: piratereport.com, coxnewsweb.com

Baltimore is up next! Bucs-O's Friday at 7p.m.

Colin Curtis pulls off his best Mazeroski impression

2010-03-03T23:03:24Z

In a much more meaningless game, the Yankees defeated the Pirates 6-3. It was however game one of the 2010 Spring Training season.

Sitting in my Economics class I was antsy. I couldn't listen to the lecture about unemployment, I just wanted to watch my Bucs. As soon as we got out I rushed to my buddy's girlfriend's apartment where MLB Network would be on the HD TV. I do not get it at my apartment so I really thank Alyssa for allowing me to crash at her place for a few hours and enjoy a real live baseball game.

The game started out nicely as Andrew McCutchen led off the contest ripping a single through the infield.

After that it was rather uneventful.

The Pirates only totaled three hits in the contest.

THREE HITS!

Now this wasn't a game against Javier Vazquez, CC Sabathia or AJ Burnett. Rather it was Chad Gaudin, Sergio Mitre and Alfredo Acceves. Now those are guys with major league time, but I would hope some of our young Bucs could sneak some hits in.

The Pirates used a pitcher an inning for nine frames. It was a unique move that made the YES network announcers ponder using that tactic in a regular season game. The unanimous decision, it couldn't work.

The announcers brought up a good point also. It has to deal with the numbers of baseball.

The picture on the right is McCutchen from a 2008 Spring Training game. Notice the astronomical number. 76? Andrew McCutch aint no 76! But players like him, back in 2008, are just marginal prospects with a long shot of making the MLB roster. Being handed a number that high may be a downgrade, but in his case I think it was just a motive to work harder. The TV announcers said anyone wearing over 60 in ST will not make the big leagues that year. No Wayne Gretzkys (99) here is how they put it. It'll be an interesting stat to look back on come April.

Anyway, back to the game. The nine Pirate pitchers did not do a bad job containing the Yanks. Steven Jackson and Virgil Vazquez were the only ones giving up multiple hits and runs. I was never a big fan of this tandem and found more reason to not support them today.

The game was toed 3-3 in the bottom of the ninth until powerhouse Colin Curtis stepped to the plate.

Curtis ripped the pitch to right field over the head of Jose Tabata and into the stands. A 3-run bomb by the former 4th round pick in the 2006 draft. Curtis was the hero for the day much like Bill Mazeroski was back in October of 1960. Maz's walk off home run to beat the Yankees is still fondly remembered by baseball fans around the world today, it is doubtful Curtis's homer will even be though of at the end of March. However, his wikipedia page already remembers the event.

"He hit a 3 run walk off homerun in the Yankees first 2010 spring training game against the Pirates."

Maybe it will be forever etched in Yankeess lore. I doubt it.

The Braves are up next!

photo credit: mlb.com, buccobits.mlblogs.com, flickr.com, baseballprospectus.com

March 2, 2010- a good day

2010-03-02T21:20:22Z

From embarrassment to back on track the Pirates defeated the State College of Florida 6-1 on Tuesday afternoon. The embarrassment came last year as the community college defeated the Pirates. Yes, that really happened. Although obviously not the entire major league roster an MLB or even minor league club should handily beat any college team.

It did happen today.

There were a handful positives for Bucco fans steaming from the win today.

1). It is the start of baseball season. What is better than seeing our boys take the field for an official organized game against competition.

2). Pedro Alvarez very well could be the read deal. The "prodigy" went 3-for-4 with three straight hits including a solid double. If it is any sign of things to come, which I'm sure it is, Alavarez will be on a fast track to the hot corner in Pittsburgh.

3). Donnie Veal-remember the name. Veal was a rule 5 pickup last offseason and is said to have killer potential. He was injured for a majority of the year in 2009 but showed promise in a depleted bullpen. He was a part of th Arizona Fall League and tore up the mound last Autumn. Today he went just one inning, but did not allow a hit and struck out a batter. He will begin the year in the Pirate bullpen, but has the talent to make a run at a rotation spot later on in the season.

The players in the lineup for the Bucs today were all minor league prospects who will not sniff the big leagues for a while. Alvarez and Jose Tabata are two of the exceptions. However, Brandon Moss too was in the lineup. Moss had a sensational game hitting a home run, but to be playing with these youngsters would have to be pretty demeaning if I were in his shoes.

Moss has failed to live up to lofty expectations the past two seasons. It is questionable whether or not he will make the big league roster. He surely needs the work in AAA, but there is a fighting chance he will be the last bench spot. He will be in tight competition with Delwyn Young and another rule 5 acquistion, John Rayner. I personally hope Young is part of the opening day 25-man roster

There are two more reasons why today has been a good day.

Over the weekend I set out with some friends to the Morgantown Mall, anticipating a big purchase. I had my sights set on buying a new hat. I had bought a gray Pirates earlier this year but Saturday I really wanted to be unique with a new team. After much consideration and second guessing I left with this:

Yes my friends a San Francisco Giants hat. Odd? Maybe. Unique? Indeed. It is something different and I like being a trend setter here. I have seen these on campus before, but it is very rare. I recieved about three compliments on my new cap and I am proud of my purchase.

Reson number three, last but not least is some big news.

After interviewing for an internship with the West Virginia Power minor league baseball team, class A of the Pirates, a few weeks ago I recieved a call back today. I was selected to be an intern. I am overjoyed at this opportunity as it will help further my career and give me a leg up in a field I hope to work in. There are still specifics that need to be worked out, I need some extra cash and a place to stay as the Power makes their home in Charleston, about a three hour drive from Morgantown.

I still have time to think it over, but good news is always welcome.

Everybody who has MLB Network should tune into it tomorrow at 1pm as the Pirates take on the Yankees. I do not pickup the station but my buddy's girlfriend does. Manager John Russel has said both Paul Maholm and Ross Ohlendorf will pitch in the opening game against NY. Get pumped! Because I am!

phot credits: sarasota.com, zimbio.com, bucsdugout.com, sportsillustrated.com, lids.com, wowktv.com

2010 Baseball Cards- I've seen better

2010-02-26T21:52:51Z

What is nearly as welcoming as a field of green, a glove a bat and a ball? Not much but I can think of something square shaped that comes close. BASEBALL CARDS

Last weekend I spent some hard earned cash on a few packs of cards. Getting razzed by my buddies for wasting my beer money on baseball cards, I feel I made the right decision.

Topps 2010 were the first I flocked to.

The base cards are striking with bold pictures and the team name prominently displayed. However, they seem like minature posters rather than baseball cards. Don't get me wrong I do like them, I just don't feel we need to "Mickey Mouse" these American traditions any more than they already.

While these are two great poses demonstrating these two top tier players, most of the pictures are weird and simply do not justify the players. They show the backs of some players.

Being a loyal topps customer I also wanted to dip into what the 2010 Upper Decks had to offer.

The Upper Deck Company has always played second fiddle to Topps it seems. The pictures are always better with UD, but the classic feel is lacking. They definitely showed why they are runners up with this year's set.

The set up of the cards are nice, for the most part. The player's pictures are nice and centralized. Their poses are natural and easily to be deciphered. The mug shot of the player in the lower right hand corner is a nice touch. The only drawback, and it is a very big drawback, is the very bottom of the cars. It's green! For every team, even if they are not the A's. It is rather annoying. Also, the player's names and team name is written in like a Times New Roman style. It doesn't mesh well with the other natures of the cards.

Of course when opening a pack of cards I get most excited when I draw a Pirate. In the four packs I bought (2 Topps and 2 Upper Decks) I grabbed a Neil Walker and Andy LaRoche. Even though the initial thrill of baseball cards is originally opening the package, I still do not get distraught if I pull some players I could care less about. My favorite part of a card is the back where you can see stats and fun facts. The education you can get about a player from their baseball card is really underrated and something more fans should enjoy.

photo credits: beckettblog.wordpress.com, ebay.com

Welcome to Bradenton Buccos!

2010-02-17T20:41:37Z

With one countdown over, another begins.

Pitchers and catchers have arrived in Bradenton, Florida, which mean just 13 days until the first Sprign Training game.

John Schelegel of mlb.com said it best.

The smell of the grass.

The pop of the glove.

The crack of the bat.

With those sensory delights, baseball begins anew, and awakens us all to a new year with baseball in Florida and Arizona. And, just like every year, isn't it about time?

We have been waiting far too long. It is time!

photo credit: pirates.com

Turning 21 to honor the Great One

2010-02-15T03:42:01Z

Anybody see this movie? I did two summers ago and I was very impressed. However, Kevin Spacey and company will not be mentioned any more throughout this article. But the aptly titled movie number will be, 21.

You see February 15th is my birthday. This is a monumental year as I am now 21. It is a cool feeling. Grown up for sure as I can now legally drink. Looks like it's time for a new big man on campus here at WVU. Won't be getting too crazy, or crazy at all because this is a busy week for me with two tests, a speech due and numerous newspaper assignments. However, I will be enjoying one of these sooner or later.

My real dream will come true on April 5th. Then I can enjoy my first baseball brew. I simply can't wait until Opening Day when I can pay 8 bucks for a miniscule cup of beer. Ahh, enjoying a ball game with a cold beer in my hand, is there really anything better?

For this entry I have been researching some MLB players who have donned the number 21.

The list includes: Ryan Klesko, Heath Bell, Mark Sweeney, Clint Barmes, Kip Wells, Ty Wigginton, Scott Hatteberg, Jason Marquis, Dimitri Young, Jon Lieber, Carlos Delgado, Sammy Sosa, Mark Kotsay, Matt Garza, Billy Butler, Sean Casey and Nick Markakis.

Now that list is of fairly current players. Warren Spahn is also up there as the leader of the 21's. The famous Braves pitcher has his number retired. However, one man reigns supreme with the number 21.

The Great One, Roberto Clemente. The tried and true pride of the Pirates is not just one of the gems of the MLB, but for all humanity. It is well documented that my admiration for Clemente is vast. Man, if I could have seen this guy play. His glove, his arm, his bat, his speed. Holy cow, he was the complete package. While I do not believe his number should be retired across the MLB simply because he did not have the impace of Jackie Robinson, he can be the face of professional baseball. By giving him a day of honor and rewarding a player with an award on Roberto's behalf is simply fantastic enough.

Thank you Roberto, for giving hope to us all, even after nearly four decades since you were last here on earth.

Thank you for helping me honore my 21st birthday!

And thank you to all my readers and facebook friends for their kind comments and birthday wishes.

And to everybody else, you're welcome. With my birthday comes the week that pitchers and catchers report! I'm just getting the ball rolling.

photo credits: moviefone.com, teachline.ie, masslive.com, popcultureshock.com

A New Pirate Generation

2010-02-10T23:31:42Z

As the snow continues to pile up...

and life is slowly chuggin along. While some are without power and water for days, I feel lucky to be safe in a working apartment with a roof over my head. As West Virginia University has canceled classes in three of the last school days, we students have been overjoyed. Although the Mountaineers lost Big Monday's basketball showdown against Villanova 82-77, I still have hope. There are seven games left in the season. Friday begins the remaining quest for the Big East Title. A rematch with Pittsburgh will be entertaining and fun to watch. I am on pins and needles for another round of the Backyard Brawl.

But something of equal importance is coming in hot.

PITCHERS AND CATCHERS WILL BE REPORTING

It seems like nearly every baseball fan is going nuts with anticipation for the unofficial, well I guess it could be considered the official, start of spring training. From fellow bloggers, to Twitter-ers, the internet is really pumped for February 18th. The Pirates, along with every other official website has been counting down the days, hours and even minutes until pitchers and catchers will show up at their respective spring training locations.

I menioned this song a few entries back when naming "The Grammys of Baseball" It was at one time the official theme song of the Pirates, played as the team ran out or after every win. It hasn't been played at PNC Park for a few years, but the tune is still heard during every radio broadcast. I have it on my iPod and many CDs. Listening to it everyday has really got me in the baseball spirit, much like Christmas music gets me in the Christmas spirit.

It is on youtube and I hope you all can appreciate this song like I do. Not only is it true, it is a great anthem for the state of the Pirates. A storied past with a bright future. This year will defintiely be a new Pirate generation. A generation filled with question marks and what ifs.

No matter the score, no matter the record-with every slide there will be Pittsburgh pride.

(the line is not only up near the blog title, it is in the song too!)

photo credit: thedaonline.com

Big thanks to Kristy for showing me how to post videos on here!

Congrats to the other Black and Gold

2010-02-08T04:21:35Z

Bourbon Street is rockin' and Miami is bumpin'. The Saints are Superbowl Champs. I was rather indifferent to this game, but nonetheless, it is the Superbowl. Had a great time watching with friends and came away so impressed.

The Saints overcomed great adversity with nearly every pundit picking against them. They overcame an early ten-point defecit, which was the largest comeback in SB history.

I was watching the pre-game specials all day and tears were forming in my eyes. The clips of the ravaged New Orleanes streets were hard to witness. Interviews with citizens still trying to build their homes back was also heart wrenching. The Saints give those people hope and to see them bring home the ultimate prize is something special. I can see the movie rights being lobbied for already.

SIDENOTE: With Superbowl Sunday in the books most of us are dreading heading back to work and school for Monday-not I.

West Virginia University will remain shut down thanks to the snowstorm that shalacked Morgantown over the weekend. Nearly 2 feet of the white stuff later, much of the town is still trying to dig out. Myself, along with the 28,000 other students couldn't be happy for an extra day of ~~drinking~~ I mean STUDYING (thats for you mom). Actually there is something much larger than drinking, studying and the normal college routine. For it is Big Monday. The No. 2 ranked Villanova Wildcats come to town to do battle with our No. 6 Mountaineers.

West Virginia is riding high after a 14 point comeback win over St. Johns on Saturday. WVU is now 19-3 and needs a marquee win to secure a spot atop the Big East standings. Pictured to the left is Deniz Kilicli "The Turk" as he is affectionately known in Morgantow. He is just a freshman who can easily pass for a 30 year old man. He hails from Istanbul, Turkey and made his collegiate debut last week in the infamous Pitt game.

The student section of WVU has been under fire for the past few weeks but things really got heated in last Wednesday's game game against the Panthers. Pitt is already our biggest rival and it was shown on Wednesday. In the previous two home games against Ohio State and Louisville the Mountaineer students were heard chanting various vulgarities and obscenities that were picked up by the television mics and heard over national television. I can't deny it, I was in the middle of it.

After a flood of e-mails from the Vice President of the school things were hoped to be calmed down against Pitt. That wasn't the case. At all. After a questionable call by an official at half court items such as T-shirts, bottles and cups rained down onto the court from the student section. A handful of items reached the court, probably seven from my count. This prompted head coach Bob Huggins to grab the PA mic and yell at the fans. This week there has been plenty of local and national backlash from the media about our behavior. While I agree with what they are saying and admit this is a complete embarrasment I can't help but suggest that every incident be reported. WVU's image is already tarnished enough acidemically, but we have had a reputation for being unruly and rowdy.

I'm sure we all have been at sporting events were a person or group of people began to chant cuss words and such. Heck I hear it everytime I watch a college sporting event on ESPN. Throwing stuff on the court? Yeah, I've seen it before too. The UNC-Virginia Tech game had to be stopped to clear debris from the court just last week. I've heard bat day at Yankee Stadium caused fans to throw wrappings and even the bats on the field. But just because we are West Virginia we need to be made an example. It really isn't fair and makes us good seeds (such as myself) recieve the negative stereotypes when in reality it is just a few bad apples. However, just a few bad ones can ruin the fun for everyone.

I suggest to you sports fans to watch the big basketball game tomorrow at 7 on ESPN, hopefully the classy WVU crowd shows up. I'll be there-classy as ever.

LETS GO MOUNTAINEERS/CONGRATS SAINTS!

photo credits: getty images/espn.com, msnsportsnet.com

Front Page Material

2010-02-05T21:43:10Z

This picture look familiar? It should. It is featured on the front page of mlblogs.com. When I logged on this morning I was welcomed with the sight of Bucco. I was shocked, simply because when are the Pirates even merely mentioned? Lastings Milledge was front and center as mlb.com drooled over his fantasy potential.

Lastings Milledge my friends, this guy is going to be good. I'm not the only one who thinks so. Cory Schwartz of Fantasy 411 on mlb.com had this to say about Pittsburgh's starting left fielder.

Lastings Milledge is something of a forgotten man after being run out of two organizations, and he was further hampered last season by a broken finger, but he's stolen 28 bases in his last 162 Major League games going back to 2008, along with a .278 average and 17 homers. He seems comfortable in Pittsburgh, especially now that he's been moved to the less stressful defensive assignment in left field, and he's still only 24. Milledge's talent has never been in question, so with a full season of health and calm this could be year he starts converting those skills into big-time fantasy results.

I agree with everything Schwartz mentioned above. When Milledge first came over from Washington I thought we were in for a long, rusty relationship. He had indeed hit his rough patches as a Met and even in Washington he butted heads with those in charge. It looked as if we had traded Nyjer Morgan, one of the nicest guys in the business, for this firecracker.

Within days, Milledge proved us all wrong. Management praised his attitude and worth ethic as he put in the time and effort he never seemed to in previous years. Everytime I saw him last season he had a smile on his face and looked like he belonged.

Hitting the seen near the beginning of 2006, Milledge was heralded as "the future," a phenom. Whether the hype went to his head is something often discussed but he was never welcomed in New York. As the youngest player in the National League, just a few days into his 21st year, Milledge was never understood by his veteran teammates. Such stars as Cliff Floyd, David Wright and Billy Wagner were reported to have lashed out against their rookie member in the clubhouse. It is safe to say they had a reason. Milledge acted like a kid in a candy score in the Shea Stadium outfield. He celebrated outlandishly, high fived fans and blew up at umpires. Maybe the vets had a point. Milledge definitely had some growing up to do. He got that opportunity in Washington when he was traded to the Nationals. Ironically enough Milledge was swapped for Ryan Church. Now the two pieces of a trade will be united together in ittsburgh as Pirates this year.

In a new setting and a new environment, young Lastings still had to fight to find his niche.

He was welcomed by the younger, more relaxed clubhouse in Nationals Stadium. It was his performance on the field that rolled some eyes. Batting in the third spot Milledge was batting .245 with seven home runs and 32 RBIs. Miniscule numbers for a quality 3rd batter. He suffered through a lingering foot injury suffered while in New York. After the rehab process he showed some life in his bat with an above .300 average to close out the 2008 season. When he was traded near the July 31st trade deadline, Milledge had a hand injury and could not play baseball for the life of him. With a sub-Mendoza Line batting average and nagging metacarpals Milledge came to Pittsburgh amidst the outcrys of Pirates fans who mised their beloved Nyjer Morgan. Like I said before, it was only a matter of days before he put the criticism to rest and strived.

Part of the facts attributing to the resurgence of Lastings was the much younger clubhouse. Stepping in as actually one of the veteran guys at the rip age of 24 was appealing. Also, lets face it, its Pittsburgh. Milledge found a home in the lower part of the batting order and finished the year strong. With our outfield set, he is truly a part of the bright future of the Pirates.

picture credits: mlblogs.com, dailynews.com, postgazette.com, washingtonpost.com

The Grammys of Baseball

2010-02-04T21:04:42Z

Since the Grammys were held last Sunday I figured it was only proper to pay homage to the rich history of music in baseball.

Music is synonomous with sport. Any sport. It is played over the speakers in the stadium to pump up the crowd and listened to by the athletes in the locker room to help them focus. It is safe to say music is critical to the production of any sporting event. Games and tailgates would be toned down and downright boring even.

To honor what music has brought to the game of baseball I present the Innagural Grammys of Baseball. A collection of select categories, some personal, that make baseball tunes special.

Best pump up song: Right Now-Van Halen

Resonating through the stands at Milan Puskar Stadium, the home of the Mountaineers, when the team forms its final huddle before the game, this song is not just a football anthem. I have heard it at PNC Park numerous occasions. "Don't wanna wait till tomorrow. Why put it off another day?" lead singer Sammy Hagar sings to begin the song, it definitely builds the anticipation for something special. What is more special than attending a baseball game? While the vocals are powerful it is the special tune of the song that makes this one of the best.

Best Song for a baseball montage:Running Down a Dream- Tom Petty

Quite possibly my favorite time of a Pirates game at PNC Park is the inning break leading into the bottom of the first. A monatge of clips is played, usually coming from the previous game and exciting moments such as a double play, diving catch or monstrous homerun. This song was played at one game I was at a few years ago and I just loved the way it meshed together. The flow of the song is perfect with the "oooo's" and killer guitar solos. The monatge focused mostly on the Pirates defense with Jasck Wilson and Freddy Sanchez turning highlight reel double plays.

Best Soundtrack from a Baseball Movie: Angels in the Outfield

I get chills everytime I see this heartwarming adventure and a lot of it comes from the score. The orchestral sound is great coming from harps, violins, cellos and such. It makes me happy and I agree with little J.P.'s famous catchphrase "It can happen"-the music helps make this movie happen that is for sure. Even though it is excellent on its own.

Best Song from a baseball movie: Hardball- Lil Bow Wow, Sammie, Lil Wayne

While hip-hop is a controversial genre, I still enjoy it. For those of you who are iffy out there, I can assure you this song is clean as a whistle. It is a great hook and shows that these young kids are enjoying playing the game of baseball, a rarity in the inner city these days. The baseball references are very clever as well. My favorite happens to be from Lil Wayne: "Pitch on the block like Nolan Ryan." Lil Bow Wow's part is also ingenious. "We need back to back hits, they call me little Sammy Sosa." and "Understand I'm like Griffey I hit 'em to the wall." I guess you can say this song is a guilty pleasure of mine. I have it on a CD in my car and my buddies make fun of me everytime it comes on.

Best batter walkup song: Jumpin' Jack Flash- Jack Wilson

For a good eight years Jack Wilson was known for his quick wits, long range and flashy gameplay from the shortstop position. And for everyone of those eight years one song described him to a T- Jumpin' Jack Flash by the Rolling Stones. Maybe it was the way PA announcer Tim DeBacco said it and timed it to the intro but whenver you heard it, you knew Jack was coming to the plate. It was a nice long intro too without any vocals, it really did signify who was coming to the plate as Jack was a symbol of Pittsburgh baseball for the past decade. I did enjoy Derek Jeter's "Empire State of Mind"-Jay-Z diddy last season but this decision was solely based on my bias.

My personal walkup song (if I was a ballplayer):You Can Call Me Al- Paul Simon

I'm a big fan of the walkup songs. I think it is a great idea that has been around for a while. Some people do not like it but like I said before it really does signify a player and it keeps the fans attentive. Any time I hear I song I like, I attempt to put a PA announcer spin on it and announce as if I am stepping to the plate. "LEADING OFF AND PLAYING IN CENTERFIELD NUMBER 15 MATTTTTHEW PEEEEASLEE" Yes I am a centerfielder and yes my number is 15-roll with it. Anywho, You Can Call Me Al is a personal favorite of mine. I like the tune, but honestly I do not understand the lyrics at all. I like the trumpet and hear it alot at college basketball games. It rolls perfectly and as a 20 second instrumental intro, which would not allow for any of the confusing lyrics to be heard. It is perfect, now I just have to hone my baseball skills and make the majors!

Best Closer intro song: Enter Sandman-Mariano Rivera

Quite possibly the best closing pitcher in baseball history has the most intimidating tune to run out too. Let's face it a closer has to be intimidating-it his is job and really the main role. He wants to get out there, mow down the batters preferably in 1-2-3 fashion, high five teammates then get the heck out of there. Rivera does just that and Enter Sandman is the perfect song and perfect nickname for someone as nerve-wracking to the opposition as him. Trevor Hoffman's "Hell's Bells" come as a close second.

Best 7th inning stretch song: Thank God I'm a Country Boy-John Denver

Call me a homer once again again, but I always give love to my boy John Denver. Played in Baltimore after Take Me Out to the Ballgame, this classic country song is a great tradition. Its a fun song to sing along with and clap to. I may catch some heat from this from Red Sox fans (Sweet Caroline) Rangers fans (Deep in the Heart of Texas) and Cardinals fans (Budweiser Jingle). I have been to all three of these parks and really enjoy hearing a catchy, traditional tune after Take Me Out to the Ballgame. Its something I think should be started in Pittsburgh. Maybe with the Pennsylvania Polka or Renegade by Styx (Pittsburgh's famous football song).

Best song played during pre-game introductions: Swingtown-Steve Miller Band

I owe my good buddy Andrew Rush kudos for this song. The notorious Yankee fan is the mastermind behind this song. A few years ago he played this song while he spouted off the starting lineup for the Yanks. He had everything timed perfectly to the music and has an excellent announcers voice. I highly suggest that any team from any level of organized baseball play this song when announcing their starting lineups. It is simply perfectly an simply irresistable.

Best Team related song: A New Pirates Generation

A lot of teams have a local band or someone who is good with words and a guitar come up with a song about their local baseball team. Many times these songs are played at the ballpark, sometimes after a win or when the team is running out of the dugout. The team has stopped doing this a few years ago but A New Pirates Generation is a good song in any outlet. Alluding to the storied past of the Pirates while anticipating a good looking future, this song is a great package. If I knew how to post a video on here I would.

Best song that reminds me of baseball: Centerfield- John Fogerty

I can listen to this anytime of day, anytime of year and still imagine a baseball in my hand. If any song could be my personal theme song, this could be it. Nothing matches my enthusiasm quite like it. "Put me in coach, I'm ready to play" And I sure am, I mean come on I am the centerfielder, number 15. But it just excited me to watch a game, blog or read a baseball website. My favorite line happens to be 'Rounding third and headed for home, It is a brown eyed handsome man. Anyone can understand the way I feel." I'm not afraid to admit on several seperate occasions I have re-enacted this scene picturing myself as this brown-eyed handsome man (I have blue eyes by the way), but it excites me to come in hot around third, slide feet first, dodge the tag, scoring the winning run. I know all of you cancertainly understand the way I feel.

There you have it folks, The Grammys of Baseball of come to a close. There were winners and losers. Kanye West Did not come up on stage, so we can call that a success. I am a fan of his music, just not his character. You want someone with good music and good character get a load of these guys.

Country artists, Zac Brown Band, stole the stage at the show taking home Best New Artist awards. They surely deserve it. As one of my favorite bands I congratulate them and encourage you all to give them a try. I for one really do enjoy country music and their hit "Chicken Fried" along with "Toes" and "Whatever It Is" are good listens to anyone who is a fan of good music is general. The ZBB is coming to PNC Park this summer, opening for the Dave Matthews Band. I honestly find DMB to be annoying but Zac Brown woulds surely be worth checking out regardless.

picture credits: grammy.com