MLB 2022: The Long and Winding Thread

I don't think you meant it that way, but I can actually see some people trying to argue that it is relevant, that it matters that he is contributing on the days between starts. I disagree. It is absolutely part of the MVP discussion, but Cy Young should be based entirely on how the guy pitches. In that area, four or five starters in the AL have been better, and all of them have contributed more because they have pitched more.

 

Tomorrow night's starters: Kershaw vs. McClanahan. Will not argue with that.

 

Challenge accepted! You see the problem with Kershaw if this. Let me go back to 2019 and …

 

Ohtani may be the ultimate test of the definition of Most Valuable Player. His two-way contribution are such that his value -- two stars for the price of one -- will be huge. But to what extent is value defined as "impact on the outcome of league standings" or some such thing?

 

The answer is, there is no set standard and the voters for MVP are free to use their own judgment. Their collective judgment thus becomes variable. I mean, Ernie Banks was National League MVP in back to back years despite playing for a shit Cubs team. Voters judged that the fact he played shortstop made him more valuable than Aaron or Mays. Banks is a certified Hall of Fame great, but better than those two. Worth more to his team? Impossible to say, and easy to argue about.
Another anecdote about the MVP. Bob Ryan felt and may still feel that pitchers should not be eligible for MVP because they have the Cy Young. Needless to say, he felt this deeply. Exposed to this belief, I pointed out that the very first Cy winner Don Newcombe in 1956, was also NL MVP that year. Ryan made a face and said, "I knew somebody would bring that up." Didn't change his mind, though. MVP is a very subjective award in any sport.

 

"And then in 2022, I reached the pinnacle of my musical career when I was chosen to sing the National Anthem prior to the Home Run Derby ..."

 

I know I'm an old fart, but in fairness to me, I want to note that I have hated the Home Run Derby since its inception many years ago. Now if they had a triples derby with nine fielders out there, that might be worth watching.

 

Even when you know how long the rounds are, espn still can’t fit the derby into the designated two hour window

 

Anyone who wasn't able to find tissues at the store today have Manky to thank

 

Why can't MLB have an AS skills competition: Fastest first to third, throws from the outfield, catcher pop times, strongest infield arm, etc.?

 

Bring back some of the skills competitions, like the NBA and NHL have. I want to watch a bunch of guys hit homers against slow pitching, I'll go to the sports complex and watch slow pitch.

 

Soto's derby title last night is like the most empty of all "victories" for Nats fans.