Bob Tholkes’ presentation, “A Permanent National Institution: The Growth of New York Rules Base Ball 1845-1864,” presented at the 2013 Rogers Hornsby Chapter Winter Meeting, can be viewed by clicking here: A Permanent National Institution- 1845-1864 survey(1)
Category: Research & Articles
MLB Umpire Ball/Strike Judgment and Decision Making Expertise
Aaron R. Baggett’s presentation from the 2013 Hornsby Chapter Winter Meeting is available here: MLB Umpire Decision Process
Serie del Caribe 2013 in Hermosillo, Mexico
Estadio Sonora, site of the 2013 Caribbean World Series *
Mexico hosts the 2013 Serie del Caribe and this year’s host city is Hermosillo, the capital of the state of Sonora. The games will be played in Nuevo Estadio Sonora, and this stadium is nuevo — it’s brand new. After its inauguration hosting the Series, the stadium will become the home field for los Naranjeros, Hermosillo’s club in the Mexican Pacific League.
A nice panoramic video of Estadio Sonora, taken during the 2013 Serie del Caribe, is out on YouTube here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AlLKbhpSidQ&feature=youtu.be
The 2013 Caribbean Series will feature a slight change in format. In past years, the four winter league champions (from Mexico, the Dominican, Puerto Rico and Venezuela) played a double-round-robin format. This resulted in a six-day, twelve game tournament, with the team having the most wins at the end of the sixth day being declared the winner. However, that format could lead to ties that would result in a seventh day playoff — or, a team could clinch early making the last two or three games meaningless. In an effort to extend the suspense, a seventh day is being added in 2013. The four country champs will still play the six-day double-round-robin, and then the first- and second-place teams will play for the championship on the seventh day. The new seven-day format will also more easily accomodate any additional leagues or teams that may participate in the future. The 2013 Series game schedule is here.
During the summer “off season” there was considerable discussion about adding participants to la Serie. There were rumors that a team from South Korea might participate, but little came of this. The big news, however, was that Cuba might re-enter la Serie del Caribe. A delegation from the Caribbean Confederation, the governing body of winter baseball and la Serie, traveled to Havana for meetings with Cuban authorities. After extensive discussions, the terms for Cuba’s return could not be worked out for 2013. However, the door was definitely left open for further negotiations.
Winter league play began in October in Venezuela, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. The line-up of participating clubs in these three countries remained unchanged, as follows:
Mexican Pacific League (8 teams): Aguilas de Mexicali, Naranjeros de Hermosillo, Yaquis de Cd. Obregon, Mayos de Navajoa, Caneros de los Mochis, Algodoneros de Guasave, Tomateros de Culiacan, and Venados de Mazatlan.
Venezuelan Winter League (8 teams): Leones del Caracas, Navegantes del Magallanes (Valencia), Tiburones de La Guaira, Bravos de Margarita (Porlamar), Cardenales de Lara (Barquisimeto), Caribes de Anzoategui (Puerto la Cruz), Tigres de Aragua (Maracay), and Aguilas del Zulia (Maracaibo).
Dominican Winter League (6 teams): Leones de Escogido (Santo Domingo), Tigres de Licey (Santo Domingo), Aguilas Cibaenas (Santiago), Gigantes del Cibao (San Francisco), Toros del Este (La Romana), and Estrellas de Oriente (San Pedro)
Puerto Rico began their season in early November. For the 2012-13 season the Puerto Rican League expanded to six teams. This was welcome news, as they were down to only four teams last winter as baseball continues to struggle in Puerto Rico. The concerns are still there at the gate, as most regular league games reported attendance of 1,000 or less.
Puerto Rican League (6 teams): Indios de Mayaguez, Criollos de Caguas, Leones de Ponce, Gigantes de Carolina, Cangrejeros de Santurce, and Atenienses de Manati.
The Winter League regular season runs until late December. This results in a regular season of about seventy games in Mexico, sixty games in Venezuela, about fifty games in the Dominican, and forty games in Puerto Rico. In-country league playoffs consume the month of January, with the four playoff winners then meeting at la Serie del Caribe to play for the championship of beisbol latinoamericano.
Juan and Monte together in Puerto Rico # Plaza Zaragoza in Hermosillo *
I’m especially excited about going to Hermosillo, as it’s the home of some Mexican friends; in particular mi buen amigo Juan Antonio Jasso Rodriguez. Juan and I met in Puerto Rico when Mayaguez hosted the 2011 Serie del Caribe. We have remained in close contact since then. I look forward to seeing him again, this year in his home town.
*** More to come as Monte travels to Hermosillo to attend the Caribbean Series. Look for updates from now through February 8 ***
January 21 playoffs update: The final series are either underway, or the field is set, in each of the four winter leagues. The finalists are: Mexico – Mexicali vs. Obregon; Obregon is the two-time defending champion of the LMP and the 2011 Serie del Caribe champ. Dominican Republic – Escogido vs. Aguilas; Escogido is the current defending champion of la Serie del Caribe. Puerto Rico – Mayaguez vs. Caguas; Mayaguez is the defending PR champion. Venezuela – Magallanes vs. Lara; los Navegantes de Magallanes is a storied and popular club in Venezuela.
In-country playoff finals as of end-of-play Wednesday, January 30:
Escogido swept the final Dominican Winter League series five games to none; they will defend their Serie del Caribe crown in Hermosillo.
In the Mexican Pacific League, Cuidad de Obregon swept to their third consecutive Mexican Pacific League league title – four games to none.
Caguas took the Puerto Rican championship 4-2.
Magallanes prevailed in an exciting Venezuelan final series that went the full seven games. World Series MVP Pablo Sandoval starred for los Navegantes.
Announcements:
Fernando Valenzuela will throw out the first pitch at the opening ceremonies on Friday February 1.
Tickets for the entire Series at Estadio Sonora are SOLD OUT !
It´s also rumored that Tommy Lasorda will throw out a first pitch, but I haven´t been able to confirm that.
Thursday, January 31:
I traveled to Hermosillo this morning. My flights from Austin to Phoenix, and on to Hermosillo were en punto — right on time. My buen amigo Juan Antonio met me at the airport and we went to his house for a home-cooked meal by Senora de Jasso. It was delicioso. I checked into my hotel, and then it was on to Travesias Mundiales, the travel agency that puts together the tours to la Serie del Caribe. The owner Thelma Acosta, daughter Paloma and the staff have been great to me and I got my gear (hat, jersey, and jacket) plus the tickets and schedule — all ahead of time.
My amigo and I then went on a driving tour of several hotels trying to get my press credentials, but were finally told to pick them up at Estadio Sonora Friday. We ended up the day at the lounge at Hotel Gandara, having drinks and watching a Cuban League game on the TV.
Friday, February 1:
Quick results: Dominican Republic 7 – Venezuela 2 , Mexico 3 – Puerto Rico 0.
The Series got off to a great start at the new Estadio Sonora. The new stadium is fantastic. There were more than 5,000 fans already in their seats for the first game, which is usually lightly attended as the host team always plays the nightcap. By the time the between-games festivities began, there were more than 16,000 fanaticos filling the place to capacity. Estadio Sonora is being touted as the finest facility in beisbol latinoamericano, and I have to agree. It’s an impressive facility.
In the first game, Venezuela jumped out to an early lead when the leadoff hitter Reggie Corona hit a first-inning home run. Venezuela made it 2-0 in the top of the fourth, but then the strong Dominican lineup began to produce. Dominicana scored one in the fourth, four in the fifth, and two in the seventh for the victory. The Dominican team is anchored by familiar names such as Hanley Ramirez, Miguel Tejada and Fernando Tatis, among others. Ricardo Nanita led the offensive attack with three hits and two RBI. Venezuela was limited to only three hits, as the Dominicans took the opener 7-2.
The between-game festivities were extensive. Fernando Valenzuela threw out the ceremonial first pitch. We were treated to extensive dancing and music, plus a fantastic fireworks display. It was a spectacular ceremony to officially celebrate the new stadium.
By the time the ceremonies were completed, the Mexican fans were ready for action and they were not disappointed. The Mexican team showed strong pitching and defense, combined with timely hitting to prevail over Puerto Rico 3-0 in a close, exciting game. Jessie Gutierrez and Marlon Byrd provided all the RBIs and Luis Mendoza pitched six strong innings. Mendoza and five relievers combined for the shutout. The home team´s fans went home happy.
Saturday, February 2
Quick results: Dominicana 6 – Puerto Rico 2 , Venezuela 4 – Mexico 3
I started the day with breakfast hosted by my friend Juan Antonio with several of his friends and baseball aficianados, including fellow SABR member Eduardo Almada. It was a far-ranging discussion of beisbol, similar to a monthly SABR chapter meeting. I was told that Tommy Lasorda was traveling to Hermosillo along with the Dodgers Spanish voice Jamie Jarrin and Dodgers president Stan Kasten. They may be at the Caribbean Hall of Fame induction ceremony Sunday morning.
It was then off to Estadio Sonora for more baseball. In the first game, the powerful Dominican lineup overcame an early Puerto Rico lead and the Dominicans once again pulled away late to take the opener 6-2. The stadium filled up prior to the nightcap and was once again at (or over) capacity for Mexico´s game. Mexico took a 3-1 advantage into the eighth inning, but Venezuela rallied late and won the game on a Mario Lisson walk-off single in the bottom of the ninth. My amigos mexicanos were understandably disappointed with the results.
But, it´s early in the tournament and only Puerto Rico appears to be in bad shape now.
Sunday, February 3
Yesterday I was able to get my press pass at the stadium, so I´m now the cronista oficial for SABR here at la Serie del Caribe. One of the perks was that I was able to attend the induction ceremonies this morning for the Caribbean Series Hall of Fame. There were six new honorees, with two key figures being Fernando Valenzuela and the president of the local club, Dr. Arturo Leon Lerma. It was very obvious that both of these men are much-loved in Mexico, with Dr. Leon Lerma getting the most extended applause. The ceremonies were held in the Center for the Arts on the campus of the University of Sonora here in Hermosillo.
Quick results: Venezuela 3 – Puerto Rico 1 , Dominicana 6 – Mexico 5 (11 inn.)
Standings as of completion of first round:
Dominican Republic 3 wins, 0 losses
Venezuela 2 wins, 1 loss
Mexico 1 win, 2 losses
Puerto Rico 0 wins, 3 losses
In Sunday´s games — once again Puerto Rico could not generate offense and lost to Venezuela 3-1. The Puerto Ricans had nine hits but could not push runs across when they had the chance. The big blow in the game was a two-run homer by Jose Castillo in the top of the sixth.
In the nightcap, the lead changed hands several times in an exciting game. The Dominican team was leading 5-4 in the top of the ninth with Fernando Rodney on the hill to close out the game. However, after two wild pitches and timely hitting, the Mexicans had pinned a blown save on Rodney and tied the game. But for a huge baserunning mistake, the Mexicans would have taken the lead. In the event, the Dominicans won 6-5 on a two out, walk-off single by Ricardo Nanita in the bottom of the eleventh. Another heartbreaking loss for my Mexican friends.
Monday February 3
Quick results: Puerto Rico 6 – Dominicana 4 (10 inn), Mexico 2 – Venezuela 0
The standings tightened up significantly as Puerto Rico upset the Dominican team for the Criollos´ first win. Mexico rode good pitching, solid defense, and a two-run homer to a victory over Venezuela.
Tuesday February 4
Quick results: Puerto Rico 4 – Venezuela 1 , Dominicana 11 – Mexico 6
OK … I took a half day off from baseball and went to the beach at Bahia de Kino. Very scenic. Back at the ball park:
Puerto Rico continued it winning ways with a solid victory over Venezuela. This result was very positive for Mexico, as it gave them the chance to take over second place with a win in the nightcap.
However, things did not go well for the home team in the second game. Mexico led 6-4 going into the top of the eighth when the Dominican powerhouse unloaded for seven runs. Leadoff man Jose Ramirez blasted a three-run homer to break the game open. Miguel Tejada had an earlier two-run blast. The final score was 11-6 before another sold-out house.
Going into the final day of round-robin play, the standings are:
Dominicana 4 wins – 1 loss
Mexico, Venezuela and Puerto Rico are all tied at 2 wins – 3 losses
This sets up important games Wednesday, with the top two teams then qualifying for a single-game playoff on Thursday.
Wednesday February 6
Quick results: Dominicana 4 – Venezuela 2 , Mexico 10 – Puerto Rico 0
The Dominican Republic and Mexico advance to the one-game final on Thursday evening !! The standings as of completion of the round robin phase are:
Dominicana 5 wins, 1 loss
Mexico 3 wins, 3 losses
Venezuela 2 wins, 4 losses
Puerto Rico 2 wins, 4 losses
The new format has worked out well, as all the games on Wednesday were meaningful (in the old format, Dominicana would have already clinched and the last two games would have had no meaning for the championship).
The highlight of play was the pitching of Mexico starter Luis Mendoza (K.C. Royals). Mendoza carried a no-hitter into the eight inning and struck out nine. A first-inning homer by Barbaro Canizares was all the offense that the home team needed, but they continued to score while displaying great defense behind Mendoza.
Thursday, February 8
MEXICO WINS THE CHAMPIONSHIP
Mexico won the 2013 Serie del Caribe in an 18-inning marathon, 4-3 over Dominicana. Mexico was batting as the visiting team due to DR winning the round-robin phase of the tournament. Douglas Clark hit a solo home run in the top of the 18th and Mexico held on for the win.
Friday, February 9
After a very short night’s sleep, I had breakfast at the airport with my friend Juan Antonio. We encountered Mexico DH/1B Barbaro Canizares at the currency exchange window and Juan was able to get a picture of him with his all-star trophy. My buen amigo and I then bid a fond farewell, hoping to meet again soon.
On my flight from Hermosillo back to Phoenix, there were a number of Arizona Diamondbacks staffers and scouts on the plane. Pitcher Nelson Figueroa was sitting across the aisle from me. I talked with him briefly as we were clearing customs. He told me he would be pitching for Team Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic and attending spring training with the D-Backs before and after the WBC.
RECAP
The 2013 Serie del Caribe was the most exciting of the three that I’ve been to so far. The new format of competition kept teams in contention longer, and assured a meaningful final game. The impressive new Estadio Sonora was a great venue, plus the sell-out crowds every day added to the excitement. The Mexican organizers did a great job putting on the event.
Estadio Sonora seemed to “play fair”, with more offense and more home runs generated than in either of the past two years in Mayaguez or Santo Domingo. Perhaps the dry air and “major league average” dimensions (325′ L and R, 400′ in C) helped generate more offense.
The make-up of the team lineups offered interesting contrasts. The Dominican team was “loaded” with well-known names such as Hanley Ramirez, Miguel Tejada, Fernando Tatis, Julio Lugo, and Fernando Rodney among others. On the other end of the spectrum, Puerto Rico had only one player currently on a major league roster – catcher Ramon Castro – and had players from as low as single-A and independent league teams. The Mexican team had many stars from the Mexican summer league, and also sometimes fielded and all-U.S. outfield of Douglas Clark, Chris Roberson and Marlon Byrd. Mexico pitcher Luis Mendoza had an ERA of 0.00 and was 2-0 in his two starts.
One of the fun aspects of the Serie del Caribe is that everyone is so accessible. You may find one of the team managers sitting near you in the stands. Or perhaps have your picture taken with some of the well-known and colorful fanaticos. A staple of Mexican games is Enrique “KK” Estrada and his band of matraqueros, who use huge noisemakers (matracas) to rally the Mexican fans and team.
Monte, KK and his “matraca” and Juan # Mexico manager Eddie Diaz with Juan #
In summary, the Serie del Caribe is an interesting, exciting and different baseball experience for the U.S. fan. My enjoyment was greatly increased by the camaradarie of my good friend Juan Antonio Jasso Rodriguez and the increasing number of friends that I meet each year. Thank you Juan; and thanks to all for the great experience. I hope to see everyone again next year, for Serie del Caribe 2014 on Margarita Island, Venezuela. Adios y buena suerte!
Amigos at Kino Bay + and at lunch in Hermosillo #
CREDITS:
* Pictures of Estadio Sonora and Hermosillo, as well as the Serie del Caribe – Hermosillo logo, are courtesy of the official 2013 Serie del Caribe web site at www.seriedelcaribe2013.com.mx
# Pictures are courtesy of Ing. Juan Antonio Jasso Rodriguez
+ Picture is courtesy of Jose Ciro Soto Hernandez
Analyzing the 2013 Hall of Fame Vote
Bill Gilbert’s 2013 analysis of the Hall of Fame Vote may be downloaded here: Analyzing the 2013 Hall of Fame vote
Rating the 2013 Hall of Fame Candidates Based on Win Shares
Bill Gilbert’s 2013 analysis of Hall of Fame Candidates based on win shares may be downloaded here: Rating the 2013 Hall of Fame Candidates Based on Win
Triple Milestones – 2012
Triple Milestones – 2012
By Bill Gilbert
Offensive production in the major leagues was mixed in 2012. The number of runs and home runs per game both increased in 2012 after reaching 20-year lows in 2011. Batting average was the same as in 2011 but on-base average dropped to .319, the lowest figure since the 1980s. However slugging average increased from .399 in 2011 to .405 in 2012
Year Runs/Game HR/Game BAVG OBA SLG OPS Triple Milestone Hitters
—- ——— ——- —- —- —- — ————————
1990 8.51 1.58 .258 .324 .386 .710 2
1991 8.62 1.61 .255 .323 .384 .707 3
1992 8.23 1.44 .256 .322 .377 .699 2
1993 9.20 1.78 .266 .332 .404 .736 5
1994 9.85 2.07 .270 .339 .424 .763 3
1995 9.69 2.02 .267 .338 .417 .755 8
1996 10.07 2.19 .270 .340 .427 .767 21
1997 9.53 2.05 .267 .337 .419 .756 7
1998 9.58 2.08 .266 .335 .420 .755 14
1999 10.17 2.28 .271 .345 .434 .779 19
2000 10.28 2.34 .271 .345 .437 .782 26
2001 9.55 2.25 .264 .332 .427 .759 21
2002 9.24 2.09 .261 .331 .417 .748 12
2003 9.46 2.14 .264 .332 .422 .754 8
2004 9.63 2.25 .266 .335 .428 .763 12
2005 9.18 2.06 .265 .330 .419 .749 10
2006 9.72 2.22 .269 .336 .432 .768 13
2007 9.59 2.04 .268 .336 .423 .759 8
2008 9.30 2.01 .264 .333 .417 .750 7
2009 9.23 2.02 .262 .333 .418 .751 6
2010 8.77 1.90 .257 .325 .403 .728 6
2011 8.57 1.87 .255 .321 .399 .720 7
2012 8.64 2.03 .255 .319 .405 .724 4
Home runs were up in 2012 as several power hitters emerged. Six players hit 40 or more home runs in 2012 compared to two in 2011. The 30 home run level was reached by 27 players in 2012 compared to 24 in 2011 and 18 in 2010.
A useful indicator for tracking offense is the number of players who hit for both power and average by achieving a .300 batting average, 30 home runs and 100 runs batted in. A record 26 players reached all three milestones in 2000, but that figure has dropped significantly in recent years. Only four players reached all three milestones in 2012, the lowest since 1994, as 23 of the players with 30+ home runs failed to reach 100 RBIs and bat .300. Miguel Cabrera and Ryan Braun were the only players who made it in both 2011 and 2012.
Joining Cabrera and Braun in the .300-30-100 club were Adrian Beltre and Prince Fielder. It was the second time for Beltre and the first time for Fielder, bringing the total to 171 players who have registered at least one .300-30-100 season starting with Babe Ruth in 1920.
Following is a listing of players who achieved triple milestones in 2012.
Player Times BAVG-HR-RBI Comments
American
Miguel Cabrera 6 .330-44-139 Won the AL Triple Crown.
Adrian Beltre 2 .321-36-102 Last time was in 2004.
Prince Fielder 1 .313-30-108 Had .299-38-120 in 2011.
National
Ryan Braun 3 .319-41-112 Also stole 30 bases..
Four players achieved triple milestones in 2011 but fell short in 2012:
2011 2012
Player Times BAVG-HR-RBI BAVG-HR-RBI
Paul Konerko 3 .300-31-105 .298-26-75
Jose Bautista 1 .302-43-103 .241-27-63
Jacoby Ellsbury 1 .321-32-105 .271- 4-26
Matt Kemp 1 .324-39-126 .303-23-69
Troy Tulowitzki 1 .302-30-105 .287- 8-27
All but Konerko missed significant playing time with injuries.
Billy Butler of the Royals came close to Triple Milestones with.313-29-107.
The following list contains the names of players, active in 2012, who have had multiple .300-30-100 seasons in the past but have not done it in the last three years. Many have been limited by injuries. Some are still very productive players like David Ortiz and Matt Holliday, but not at the same level they were in their peak years. Since this list was started in 2004, not one player has come back with another .300-30-100 season.
Last
.300-30-100 .300-30-100
Player Seasons Season 2012 Comments
Alex Rodriguez 8 2008 .272-18-57 Another injury filled year.
Todd Helton 5 2003 .238- 7-37 Severe decline continues.
Chipper Jones 5 2001 .287-14-62 Still productive in final year.
Jason Giambi 4 2002 .225- 1- 8 Not much left.
Lance Berkman 3 2006 .259- 2- 7 Lost season due to injuries.
David Ortiz 3 2007 .318-23-60 Lone bright spot for Red Sox.
Mark Teixeira 3 2008 .251-24-84 Has become a .250 hitter.
Jim Thome 2 2002 .252- 8-25 Still adding to home run total.
Aramis Ramirez 2 2004 .300-27-105 Almost made it.
Travis Hafner 2 2006 .228-12-34 Not enough for a DH.
Vernon Wells 2 2006 .230-11-29 Continues to disappoint.
Matt Holliday 2 2007 .295-27-102 Came close in 2012.
Aubrey Huff 2 2008 .192- 1- 7 Looks like end of the line.
David Wright 2 2008 .306-21-93 Good enough for big contract.
In his 1988 Baseball Abstract, Bill James referred to triple
milestone seasons as "Hall of Fame Seasons". This was because all of the
eligible players with 5 or more triple milestone seasons had been
elected to the Hall of Fame. This correlation was broken in 2011 when Juan Gonzalez and Jeff Bagwell fell short of election in their first year of eligibility.
The Detroit Tigers had two players with triple milestones in 2012. Twenty nine of the thirty major league teams have now had at least one triple milestone hitter since the year 2000. Kansas City has not had a triple milestone hitter since Danny Tartabull in 1991, but Billy Butler came close in 2012.
Five minor league players also recorded triple milestone seasons in 2012 including two who finished the season in the major leagues.
Player Team (Level) Organization Age BAVG-HR-RBI
Darin Ruf Reading (AA) Philadelphia 25 .317-38-104
Philadelphia (NL) .333- 3- 10
.318-41-114
Will Myers NW Arkansas (AA) Kansas City 21 .343-13- 30
Omaha (AAA) .304-24- 79
.307-37-109
Jedd Gyorko San Antonio (AA) San Diego 23 .262- 6- 17
Tucson .328-24- 83
.311-30-100
John Lindsey Laguna (MEX) Detroit 35 .341-21- 64
Toledo (AAA) .270-15- 47
.310-36-111
Anthony Rizzo Iowa (AAA) Chicago Cubs 22 .342-23- 62
Chicago (NL) .285-15- 48
.310-38-110
No college players achieved triple milestones in 2012
Pitchers also strive for triple milestones – 20 wins, 200 strikeouts and an ERA under 3.00. Three pitchers made it in 2012, the most since 1974, The three who made it in 2012 are:
Pitcher Wins-Strikeouts-ERA
Gio Gonzalez 21-207-2.89
R. A. Dickey 20-230-2.73
David Price 20-205-2.56
Justin Verlander and Clayton Kershaw both made it in 2011 but fell short in wins in 2012. The three who made it in 2012 all accomplished it for the first time.
A complete list of hitters with triple milestone seasons since 1920 can be found at Baseball-Almanac, with the following link.
http://www.baseball-almanac.com/legendary/triple_milestones.shtml
Book Review – Cuban Star
Cuban Star
How One Negro-League Owner Changed the Face of Baseball
by Adrian Burgos, Jr.
A Baseball Book Review
Monte Cely
(512) 310-9777
Cuban Star is the story of Alejandro “Alex” Pompez, a baseball Hall-of-Famer who played major roles in the Negro Leagues and in the integration of major league baseball.
Pompez was born in 1890 in Key West, Florida to immigrants who had fled the Spanish colonial regime in Cuba. Pompez’ father was active in the fight for Cuban independence, and this book explains the importance of “beisbol” as a symbol of the resistance struggle against the Spanish and as a means of raising funds to support the 1890’s revolution.
Pompez lived in Key West and in Tampa before moving to Harlem as a young man. He built a business empire that included “running the numbers” as well as promoting sporting events, including his New York “Cubans” ball club. He was instrumental in bringing many darker-skinned Latinos into the Negro Leagues. As integration gradually destroyed the Negro leagues in the late 40’s to early 50’s, Pompez re-invented himself as a “super-scout” for the New York/SF Giants. In that role, he served as both recruiter and mentor for the first wave of dark-skinned Latins joining organized baseball.
This book paints a story of baseball integration that is very different from the well-known version featuring Jackie Robinson and Branch Rickey. Alex Pompez was at the center of that integration story, especially as it involved the Dominicans, Puerto Ricans and Cubans that entered baseball in the 1950-60s. It’s a compelling and informative story that should be of interest to SABR members.
Here are the key statistics:
Book: Cuban Star – How One Negro-League Owner Changed the Face of Baseball
Author: Adrian Burgos, Jr.
Author’s Credentials: Burgos is a professor of history at the University of Illinois. His previous book on baseball is Playing America’s Game: Baseball, Latinos and the Color Line. His work has also been featured in The New York Times and the Chicago Tribune, as well as on ESPN.
Published: 2011, Hill and Wang; ISBN: 978-0-8090-9479-0.
Length: 302 pages.
Price: Retail list – $28.00; Online – from $2.00 (used) + shipping.
Baseball Super Freaks
When I was a kid, I remember having a set of baseball cards that were a bit unusual. It’s essentially a mashup of baseball players and monsters called Super Freaks by Donruss in the 1970s. A recent garage cleaning unearthed these invaluable (to me) cards. Nostalgia kicked in and I can’t bear to keep this to myself.
I don’t have the full set (note to self: next quest is to scour ebay and complete my set, thereby achieving The Joy That Knows No Bounds), but I have a good number of them.
The illustrations are top notch, and the baseball humor is quite good. Oh, what fun is in store for you, the gentle reader: a pitcher who nibbles (literally)!; an umpire so good he makes calls before the play is over!; a freak beaned in the head by a ball that went over the centerfield wall for a home run (take that, Jose Canseco!); a catcher who tends to look away just as the pitch is made!
So, without further ado, here are the ones I have:
Norris the Nibbler — A long time favorite freak. He is known far and wide for his constant nibbling; baseballs that is. It is really hard to complete a game with Norris around because he eats all the balls.
Arnie the Agile — A Super Freak in every sense.Arnie can catch any ball that comes within 20 feet without moving. Even though he is extremely quick on the basesball diamond… it takes him several minutes to sit down.
Shecky the Shortstop — Shecky is famous the world over for his quadruple plays (one for each eye). He has the unusual ability to watch three bases and the ball at the same time. He is a real hero with the clean-up crew.
Ozzie the Outfielder — Ozzie is a flashy freak. He has great ability to be alert at all times.The reason for this, of course, is because one head can sleep while the other thinks about playing ball.
Paul the Pitcher — Even though Paul is a pitcher, he sometimes plays catcher and he is terrific… who wouldn’t be with all those arms! He is a real threat when he is on the mound.
Slurp the Second Baseman — This freak will go to the Baseball Hall of Fame next year. There his tongue will be removed and hung in the trophy case to inspire all the second basemen around the world.What could be a better tribute to a freak who can catch a line drive with his tongue?
Sam the Switch Hitter — Sam can keep the best pitchers confused.As a matter of fact, he confuses himself, he fans and the umpires. If he didn’t have such a good personality, no one would tolerate him.
Oink the Ump — Oink has been an umpire in the Major Leagues for many years. He has the amazing ability to make a call before it actually happens. His lack of vision does not keep him from knowing just where the play is going to happen.
Benny the Base Runner — When Benny runs the bases, everyone is stricken with fear because he sounds like a stampede coming. Second and Third basemen have been known to run and hide when Benny gallops past first base.
Ollie the Outfielder — Ollie is an ex-bat boy, as anyone can see, who finally made the Big Leagues. Because of Ollie’s unusual abilities, rarely does a home run get past him.
The Bomber — This pitcher has one secret pitch no one can hit. If there is a full count on the batter, the next pitch he throws is the bomb.This pitch blows up the batter completely.
Hank the Hitter — Hank has the highest batting average in the Major Leagues.Any throw that comes close to the plate is certain to become a home run.
Richard the Runner — Richard has great speed and can slide link no other Super Freak. He can literally bury an opposing player when he charges a base. Incidentally, his roommate is Speed E. Freak.
Bo the Book-Maker — Bo was fired for betting many years ago, yet he still hangs around the stadium. He lives on left over hot dogs and popcorn and sleeps on the bleachers. Obviously, his diet doesn’t agree with him.
Sperry the Spit-Ball — Sperry can throw a spit-ball so wet that it has to be caught in a towel. He was voted the favorite freak of the year.
Nevin Nothing — Nevin’s biggest thrill in baseball was made his first year when a wild pitch him in the head and bounced over the centerfield fence. It took Nevin 15 minutes to run the bases in his dazed condition.
Ronnie the Reader — Ronnie the bookworm on the team. He plays centerfield so that he can read while playing. Even though his attention isn’t fully on the game, he seldom misses a pop fly.
Bob the Slob — Without doubt, Bob is the biggest slob in the Super Freak League. Rumor has it that he has not had a shower since he has been playing ball. He has been walked more than any other player because no one can stand to be close to him.
Harry the Hypnotist — Harry is a terrible pitcher, but he can hypnotize the batter and make him swing at anything that is thrown. Harry holds the record for continuous strike-outs.
Super Scooper — This freak is in the All Star ranks because of his ability to scoop up grounders. He is so good at it that he doesn’t even use a glove. He does, however, complain his toothpaste bill is too high.
Stupe the Second Sacker — This young freak was acquired from the Southern Freak Farm just last year and has become a favorite in a short time.With his exceptional vision, very little escapes his eyes.
Marvin the Mouth — The only accident that happened in Spring training was when Strike Out King threw his bat and it landed in Marvin’s mouth. Prior to this, Marvin could be heard for miles when arguing with the umpire.
Freddie Far-Out — Freddie is probably the freakiest freak of all. Being odd does not affect his playing ability. Freddie is extremely versatile and can play almost any position, including water boy.
Henry the Horrible — Henry announces all Super Freak ball games. He is well known for his colorful narrations, knowledge of the game, his relationship with all the players and his terrible looks.
Sam the Slammer — Sam swings the biggest bat in baseball.When he hits a ball, nothing is left but sawdust.The problem is that he rarely hits one. He holds the record of strike-outs.
Speed E. Freak — The fastest freak in baseball… he can actually run the bases twice while his ball is in the air. Opposing teams fear his fantastic speed.
Sylvester the Center Fielder — Sylvester’s main responsibility is to catch flies. HIs teammates know the only thing he can do well is attract them… probably because he washes his hair in ketchup.
Strike Out King — This guy has been struck out more than any other freak.The opposing pitcher knows the safest place to throw the ball is right under his nose. He tries to make friends, but just can’t mainly because he is just too nosey.
The Nose — This freak truly has a nose for the game. In fact, he uses it to catch those pop flies that other players find difficult to handle. He can smell a hit long before it happens.
Sammy Springer — Sammy was an All-American center on the Super Freak High School Basketball team. He switched to baseball last year and started at shortstop because of his ability to jump 20 feet into the air and catch any ball that comes by.Truly a Super Freak.
Pork E. Pine — No opposing player dares to slide into this guy’s base. In his twenty years in the Major Leagues. No one has ever gotten past him without getting the point.
Second Baseman — This player has an unbeatable way of firing a ball back to home plate. He uses a sling shot.The accuracy and speed is amazing. It is really tough for the opposing team to score a run when the ball is hit to this guy.
George the Glob — George has the unusual ability to cover a lot of ground in a short time with his four legs. Even though he is a Glob, he is a real asset in covering the outfield responsibilities.
Gavin the Goof-Off — Even though Gavin has four eyes, he has a tendency to look away just as the pitch is thrown.This is terrible for a catcher, but Gavin has so much to see.
Bernard the First Baseman — This guy plays ball with the spirit of a warrior. He guards first base like he owns it.A tough player to get past.
Alert Albert — Albert never pays attention to the game. He will look away anytime his name is called. Because of this, he has very few teeth left in his head.
Foul Ball Fred — This guy’s responsibility has been to scoop up foul balls and he’s been at it so long that he has become a foul character.The team keeps him around because he works for nothing.
Herman the Hideous — Herman is the most versatile freak. He can play any position… including the coach. He is so ugly that everyone ignores him other times. A Super Freak in every sense!
I hope you enjoyed these as much as I have. My favorites are Norris the Nibbler and Super Scooper. What would we do without cherished memories?
Movie Review : Knuckleball!
Knuckleball! is a documentary film that chronicles the 2011 season for the only two active members of the exclusive fraternity of knuckleballers, R. A. Dickey of the New York Mets and Tim Wakefield of the Boston Red Sox. As Dickey finally enjoyed some success at the major league level after 15 seasons of one-year contracts Wakefield was wrapping up a 19 year major league career by chasing his 200th win.
The film alternates between the two pitchers; telling the stories of their development as ballplayers in high school and college through the minor leagues and into the majors. Before achieving major league success both had to make the decision to adopt the mostly misunderstood knuckleball.
Former major league knuckleballers Phil Niekro, Charlie Hough, Tom Candiotti, Wilbur Wood and Jim Bouton are also featured offering advice and sharing baseball tales that only a knuckleballer could appreciate.
Knuckleball! is a must-see for serious fans of America’s pasttime and offers a glimpse at the human side of professional athletes that non-baseball fans can appreciate. Make no mistake, however, this film is a baseball film.
Available for rental or purchase through iTunes and YouTube.
Summer 2012 Baseball Book Recommendations
With the "unofficial" start of summer upon us, here are some recommendations for your summer baseball reading enjoyment (when you’re not watching games, of course):
Connie Mack – the Turbulent and Triumphant Years 1915-1931 by Norman L. Macht (Univ. of Nebraska Press) – in the second volume of Mack’s biography, Norman exposes truths and debunks fables about the Tall Tactician. The reader is also transported back in time to the days of the World War, the Roaring Twenties and the Great Depression. A must-read.
Out of Left Field – Jews and Black Baseball by Rebecca T. Alpert (Oxford University Press) – the story of Jewish promoters, businessmen, and sportswriters and their deep involvement with African-American baseball. An enlightening story, with a special meaning for the "left" in left field.
Kenichi Zenimura – Japanese American Baseball Pioneer by Bill Staples, Jr. (McFarland) – a biography of "Ken" Zenimura, the Japanese/Hawaiian-American player, manager, and promoter of baseball among Japanese Americans. Zenimura was instrumental in the organization of Japanese-American leagues in California, the promotion of tours between Japanese and American teams, and the organization of sports leagues in the internment camps during World War II (he and his family were held at a camp in Arizona). An inspiring story.
56 – Joe DiMaggio and the Last Magic Number in Sports by Kostya Kennedy (Sports Illustrated Books) – a look at DiMaggio’s streak in the context of early-1940s America. An interesting and entertaining read about DiMaggio’s personal realtionships and American society at that time.
The Wonder Team in the White City by Tom Simon (Gardner-Waterman Press) – the story of the University of Vermont baseball team of the 1880s and 1890s. This book paints a great picture of the early days of collegiate baseball, culminating in the first "intercollegiate championship" held at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. An insightful quote from this book (from the March 2, 1892 issue of the U. of Vermont student newspaper) has special meaning for SABR members:
"Base ball is indispensable to our well-being."
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