Tuesday, April 06, 2004

 

So Far, So Good

I'm sorry I didn't join my fellow bloggers in waxing rhapsodic about last night's game, but I, uh, fell asleep in the 3rd inning of the A's game and didn't wake up until morning. Really.

Obviously, I'm pleased about the first two games of the season. Here's a few random observations:

The Giants defense is very good. The defense will keep the team in a lot of games this year.

The new guys (Walker, Estrella, Torcato, Franklin, even Aardsma) are under a lot of pressure to prove themselves quickly. If they don't (Estrella), they'll be soon replaced by guys coming back from the DL (Eyre), or other new guys (Veres). If they do a good job in the first week or two, they could win a permanent spot on the roster. For this reason, the early part of the schedule is more like spring training than usual. Expect to see Alou run guys out here just to get an idea what he has.

I've never seen Neifi play as well as he did tonight. It's enough to raise the glimmer of hope that shortstop won't be a total bust this year.

Barry Bonds looks like he's having fun playing baseball. This is a really good sign. (By the way, his website has his first message to the fans.)

Matt Herges looks like the real deal. I'm at least as comfortable with him closing as I was with Worrell. And kudos to Alou for bringing him in during the 8th.)

I can see why the Giants are so high on David Aarsdma. Good velocity, good movement. Very young, very raw, he has a lot to learn. With that many pitches, he could be a starter, but I'm glad they're starting him in long relief. That will save wear on his arm. Hanging out with veterans might help him learn the art of pitching faster, as well. I know that's not the usual wisdom, but what the hell, I'm not really in charge of anything.

That stupid hill in center field at Houston is the stupidest fake retro feature in any ballpark ever.

Finally: if you're not geeked about watching Bonds vs. Clemens tomorrow, you need a mortician.

Jefferson 8:59 PM

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