Makowsky Friends: OK Fans , You asked for it !!

Tuesday, September 26, 2006

OK Fans , You asked for it !!

Alright Major & Minor leaguers , You now have your own Baseball Banter Posting. So for all you self-proclaimed experts , fanatics, wannabees or weekend warriors....BATTER UP.

120 Comments:

At 8/30/2006 9:35 PM , Rob said...

Ok Baseball fans try this one:

There are 6 ways for a batter to get on base without being credited with a hit ....What are they?
At 8/30/2006 11:32 PM , Mitch said...

This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
At 8/31/2006 9:01 AM , Bob Hutt said...

Gee Rob this is what Jodi must have meant when she said I should have a column on the Blog. OK here goes...

Here are the ways:

1. Walk (includes balk with a three ball count). Something I did all the time when I pitched.

2. Hit by pitch. Another thing I did all the time when I pitched. But with Mike Hirsch he took it to a whole new level. If not for me most of you Senior Boys would be dead, or at the very least, unable to have fathered children if you get my drift?

3. Error (includes MLB Offical Rule 7.05 i). Kenny Fine I will never forgive you making that error in the ninth inning at Morris Sondak when I had a perfect game going. LOL.

4. Catcher drops ball on third strike. Not to mention Jackie dropping the ball on strike one and strike two also. LOL

5. Pass ball on third strike (includes MLB Offical Rule 7.05 h). See Number 4 Jackie.

6. Pinch runner. Also known as the Dave Baskin rule in which little Stevie Kiviat would run for him all the time.

7. Catcher/Fielder interference. We're back to Jackie as sometimes he would give the batter a left hook rather than let him get a hit off of me. And as for Mitch he would clothes line the runner coming toward first base.

8. Fielder’s choice. This is where instead of Lenny tagging the runner or throwing to first base for the out, he instead fired home to Jackie who first cold cocked the runner, and then applied the tag. Usually it was a bit too late as the guy was laying unconcious at home plate.

There you have it!
At 8/31/2006 10:23 AM , Mitch said...

Great job Bob, but you did leave one out.

Fan Interference:

This where Jackie's dog Battle would run on the field and pick up the ball after Steve Kiviat hit a monster shot that settled between home plate & the pitcher's mound. Battle would take the ball and run around the field once...look for Tippy and then scoot towards the Silverman bungalow...exchanging it for a bagel. Steve would be allowed first base.

And now you have it!
At 8/31/2006 10:45 AM , steve kiv said...

Okay you guys!

You must be really jealous to keep poking fun. After all, I'm the one who's going out with Teri Hatcher (DON'T TELL jUDY), have a bazillion dollars in foreign accounts, a home on Monte Carlo (no Jackie, I don't LIVE out of a Monte Carlo)and am the personal advisor to James Dolan and the Knicks!

Oh, it's time to wake up!!!
Darn!

Well at least I have my hair and can out run any of you old guys! (for at least 10 yards. after that oxygen!)
At 8/31/2006 11:21 AM , augie said...

www.baseball-almanac.com is great source for weird records
At 8/31/2006 12:17 PM , Mitch said...

Steve...

So...you are the reason the Knicks are in salary cap hell. Advisor to Dolan and hidden accounts off shore. You are very busy. How do you find time for Teri?
At 8/31/2006 9:22 PM , Rob said...

Sorry guys, I've been an eternal Knick fan , but when Riley moved to Florida the exact same time I did years ago , I feel like I went with him . The Heat ARE Hot , Plus guys like him 'Zo' & 'Shaq' are very involved with the community.

Class acts off the court
At 9/01/2006 1:21 PM , augie said...

Rob, your real lucky to have Wade the real next MJ. Can't begin to describe how depressing it was to go to the Garden the last couple of years. Keeping current do I miss the Ewing years.
At 9/01/2006 8:43 PM , Rob said...

OK , here's an easy one. Quote me the infield fly rule...........
At 9/01/2006 9:40 PM , steve kiv said...

The infield fly rule is as follows:

If it's a fly either swat it or zip it up.

It it's in the infield, make sure it stays away from your hotdog!
At 9/02/2006 11:38 AM , Mitch said...

Bruce

Love that story. Al Hrabosky "The Mad Hungarian" I remember him with that Fu Manchu moustache, long hair and the way he used to psych himself up by stomping on the back of the mound before he pitched. I'm not sure, but I think he was in the movie Major League. Can anyone confirm that?
At 9/02/2006 1:37 PM , Bob Hutt said...

This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
At 9/02/2006 4:44 PM , Bob Hutt said...

Noah Fleiss?
At 9/02/2006 9:22 PM , Rob said...

In 1989 I attended a 20 yr Miracle Mets function with my son Matt (who was & is THE Met fan and 10 yrs old at the time) The players gathered in a room and of course for a fee you get paraphenalia for them to sign. So, he approaches Bud Harrelson who just left as Mgr. and Matt asks Bud " what will be your function next year" ? Well Bud did not like the question and you could see the steam exiting his ears. He responds by saying " To sign stuff for kids like you" . Matt , the innocent Met fan child was floored. I quickly moved to the next player/table ..Ed Kranepool, who by the way was a gentleman , not like that s/bag Harrelson. It was a shame , these kids (as we did too) worship these guys and maybe get one chance to meet them if at all. Well , Matt has recovered still loves them, as for me Harrelson will always be on my s/list of B-players.. Pete Rose shoulda hit him harder!!

Anyway , just thought I'd share this Baseball moment
At 9/03/2006 12:45 PM , steve kiv said...

Hey guys!

Do Bobby's entries come with Cliff Notes?
At 9/04/2006 1:04 PM , Bob Hutt said...

Ryan Howard is the MVP in the NL.

Derek Jeter is the MVP in the AL.

Any questions?
At 9/04/2006 1:58 PM , Mitch said...

Bobby

I agree with you on Derek Jeter. I know that Steve Kiviat will disagree, but he does not watch Jeter play every day like us New Yorkers. He is an amazing player and leader. The only thing he does not do is hit for power, and those are traditionally what MVP's are elected on. I hope he wins it in spite of that.

On Ryan Howard I will agree with you, but only if Philly makes the playoffs. He is the "most outstanding player" in the NL. But an MVP in my opinion must come from a playoff team. So how about Jose Reyes? Albert Pujols?
At 9/04/2006 10:21 PM , steve kiv said...

You guys just don't get it.

Jeter is a great player. (Mitch, I get the ny stations up here!)
However, the Yankees are set up to win. They can lose any player and still win. Even Jeter!!!

A 200 Million dollar payroll will guarantee some success. Not necessarily a championship but success nonetheless. Take away Jeter and the Yankees will still be in the hunt. Take away Howard from the Phillies, Pujols from the cards and Reyes or Beltran from the Mets and the only thing that these teams would be in the hunt for is a better draft pick.

By the way, if Jeter is such a great leader, why did he leave
A-Rod out to dry when he was struggling?

By the way,.....Willie was better then the Mick!
At 9/04/2006 10:37 PM , LARRY said...

Way to go kiv, we were always great Giant fans back then.We were the national league and kup was the American , back then we even won a few all star games.
At 9/05/2006 12:28 AM , Mitch said...

Steve

I know it is fashionable for all you Yankee haters to say Jeter left A-Rod out to dry...and maybe he could have handled it better ( he had his own axe to grind with him for that unflattering article A-Rod was quoted in Sports Illustrated a few years back) but all he did was leave A-Rod to his own devices in getting out of his slump. (He can't hit for him Steve, nor could he hit for Jason Giambi when he was struggleing last year) Every professional athlete in America should conduct himself the way Derek Jeter does. There isn't one Major League baseball team that wouldn't want Derek Jeter as the "face" of their franchise. As far as payroll goes, there are plenty of "big market" teams that spend money. The Red Sox, Mets etc. Granted they do not spend as much as the Yankees, but they do spend. But...where was the boy wonder GM of the Red Sox Theo Epstein at the trading deadline? I'll tell you! He sat on his hands and didn't do anything. And now look at what happened to the "Sawx"...They are in the dumper. "My point is" that the Yankees for the most part spend their money wisely. They have the resources so why not use it. At least their owner wants to WIN! That is one of the problems with baseball...Owners do not put the money back into their respective teams..."they just line their pockets" All those teams make money...even the small market teams, Don't cry for them...if they don't like it then sell your team to someone who wants to win. This is America and we are capitalists. There is no salary cap in baseball so the Yankees are not breaking any rules they are just using the system. They draw 4 million fans a year for a reason. If you put a winning product on the field..."they will come" They market their team globally with their network and signing a player like Hideki Matsui. I'm sorry if your team signed the wrong Matsui. It goes back to spending your money wisely. They aren't perfect and have signed innefective players but they don't make that mistake too often. You have lit a fire under me now and I'm starting to "bleed blue pinstripes." I can't help it now and I can't give you the abbreviated Cliff Notes or Monarchs version...sorry, I'm now in Bob Hutt territory.

Let's just say we agree to disagree and leave it at that. I still love you anyway!

Also, as much as I hate to admit it...Willie was better than the Mick. But remember, he was usually hungover when he played.
At 9/05/2006 8:23 AM , steve kiv said...

Mitch!

Very simply.........I have no problem with the Yankees for their payroll. They play within the system that was created for all teams.

My problem with Jeter is that the MVP needs to go to the player who is so important to his team that the team COULD NOT WIN without him. It is for this reason that I don't think that Jeter qualifies, even as good as he is!
At 9/05/2006 9:38 AM , Bob Hutt said...

This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
At 9/05/2006 9:46 AM , Mitch said...

Thank you Bobby

Just a footnote to the Scooter. I remember Ted Williams once saying about Phil Rizzuto..."If he played for the Red Sox...then we would be winning Woeld Series after World Series, not the Yankees"....'Nuff said....

Derek Jeter is the the MVP this season. HANDS DOWN!
At 9/05/2006 10:46 AM , steve kiv said...

Bobby and Mitch,

There's no arguing with you
guys.

Bobby, do not insult my opinion and I will not insult yours.

You need too many words to make your case.

No one is saying that Jeter should not be the MVP. It's just that the Yankees would still be up there without him. They have a lot of great players.

Take away the other top players from their respective teams and those teams would disappear. THAT"S what an MVP means to his team. Not how good Jeter is or how good his statistics are. Statistics can be overated and not an indication of how important a player is to his team. Jeter IS the MVP of the Yankees, just not the MVP of the league.

You know what else? Talking sports is like beating your head against a wall. It feels good when you stop!

I'm happy for the Yankees and I'm happy for the Mets, but in the long run whether they win or lose doesn't mean a thing!

I'm glad that football is here and that I can root for and laugh at the JETS.
At 9/05/2006 4:17 PM , augie said...

Asa Met fan i do agree thatt Jeter deserves the MVP in what should be 3 horse race with Justin Morneau and Jermaine Dye. when i think of how Dye went from loser to star his turnaround really truly might save white sox season and Justin M is classic stud hitter on a team that is NOT loaded and actually has low payroll. If i was voting these guys come in 2-3-4 since I'm not afraid to let someone win the Cy Young and the MVP. SANTANA not Ervin and not Carlos. The only truly dominant pitcher right now.
As a Met fan I'm hoping Beltran wins it, he's the # 1 star on the team that is going wire to wire as best team in NL but I won't be shocked when one of 2 First basemen win it this year
At 9/05/2006 5:11 PM , Bob Hutt said...

Steve you are off base as the Yankees lost 33% of their all stars. Not just starters but all stars. 3 All Stars from their starting lineup and lost their NUMBER ONE Starter in Randy Johnson for the entire season. If they have television other than Idiot Nation up in Boston you would have witnessed Derek Jeter carry this team. AROD has had an off year.

Without question Derek Jeter has virtually carried the Yankees on his back this season. He is hitting .450 with men in scoring position. He never takes a day off. Entering play Monday, Jeter was hitting .342 with 12 home runs, 84 RBIs, 97 runs and 29 stolen bases. In the American League, he ranked second in batting average, fifth in runs, fourth in on-base percentage (.421) and seventh in stolen bases.

Not bad for a shortstop.

Steve for you to poo poo his accomplishments as if he's nothing special only goes to prove you still don't have a clue!

I am not a Yankee fan!

Derek is the MVP of the AL and many of the knowledgable sports writers will think the same. You are being very shortsighted.

For example, Johan Santana strikes fear into every hitter in the AL. He is the Cy Young winner hands down. His only competition comes from MO who, without question, is and has been the Yankees MVP for the past ten years. He is automatic and lights out and a first ballot Hall of Famer.

In the NL there isn't any Cy Young winner unless you want to give it to the human batting practice pitcher Boom-Boom Jeff Weaver. Jose Lima is my close second choice.
At 9/05/2006 10:05 PM , Rob said...

Steve haven't you learned , by taunting Hutt you make him write essays on the Blog.

Hey Bobby , post links , not novels.......LOL

One thing you must admit ....
Derek Jeter has Honest Appeal!
At 9/06/2006 1:14 PM , augie said...

Rob, why is it no fans go to Marlins games? I'm rooting for them to make the wild card. So exciting and Johnson should be rookie of year and Cy young winner if he kicks butt down the stretch
At 9/06/2006 3:38 PM , Bob Hutt said...

Augie why do fans not attend Marlin games, let me count the ways?

1. The average age of a Floridian is DECEASED.

2. Most of these "would be" fans are Senior Citizens on fixed incomes and are unable to afford outrageous ticket prices.

3. It rains each and every single day in Florida and they do not have an indoor stadium.

4. Most are retired baseball fans from other parts of the country who have have no interest in the Marlins; only their previous hometown heroes.

5. The owner is a cheap SOB who sold off his best players to cut his losses which only creates more red ink.

6. And if any of these exciting rookies become good, they will become expensive to resign and will be traded away as the Marlins have done twice after winning the World Series.

Augie, last but not least, why would anyone want to be a Marlin fan other than Stevie Kiviat who thinks Derek Jeter is not worthy of the MVP? Any more questions???
At 9/06/2006 9:36 PM , Rob said...

I'm sitting here watching a Marlin No-hitter. Don't get me started. This town has seen good Marlin teams , too many owners, bad business , bad stadium,bad decisions, Hot & Cold fans: But they have a huge potential Fan base.Let's face it.
At 9/07/2006 11:34 AM , Bob Hutt said...

Rob I watched the end of yeterday's no hitter on DirecTV. How sad was it to see the stadium absolutely empty with less than 6,000 fans actually watching instead of the announced paid crowd of 12,000.

The Marlins have a crop of rookies and second year ballplayers who are second to none. I have Johnson and Nolasco on my fantasy team.

They have climbed back from being 20 games under .500 to actually a game over. That is no small feat but yet the Floridians don't even care.

And the reason is my points 1 - 6 and especially bad management. Joe Giradi is without question the manager of the year and his reward will be that he is fired by the owner.

The owner is an embarrassment and that is the root of the problem along with the stadium and the age of the potential fans on fixed incomes.

Unfortunately, this team will be relocated and relatively soon if not disbanded. Rob, I feel your pain as you should be very proud of the Marlins and especially their accomplishments this season. I hope they make the wildcard and then beat my METS.

I hate that the BIG MARKET teams buy the opportunity to compete in the playoffs as this isn't right. Before the season starts, only about 10 teams have a realistic chance. Baseball will regret this one day in a big way.

Keep rooting Rob...
At 9/08/2006 4:09 AM , Bob Hutt said...

This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
At 9/08/2006 9:53 AM , Bob Hutt said...

This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
At 9/08/2006 1:13 PM , steve kiv said...

Hey guys!

Bruce you're right.

COLOR WAR!

The perfect colors for this year are BLACK AND BLUE!!
At 9/08/2006 2:11 PM , Bob Hutt said...

Stevie thanks for calling up and telling me that you finally "see the light" and agree that Derek Jeter should get the AL MVP.

Of course the "light" you finally saw was from the tunnel with the oncoming AMTRAK from NY to Boston!

There was a five game train wreck at Fenway and they're still sweeping out the place if you get my drift?

LOL

After we hung up Stevie, I got to thinking, since you switched to the Derek Jeter bandwagon, I'm switching to Jermaine Dye or perhaps even Jermaine Jackson?

If Stevie says black, I say
white, and vice-a-versa. That's the way it's always been for us for over 50 years; and, we always laugh about it.

Stevie and I both suffer from a serious case of dementia in that we agree wholeheartedly that Jose Lima gets our vote for the Cy Young award in the NL.

Afterall, withthout Joes's valuable contribution to the rest of the NL, the Mets may have clinched the NL East last July?

LOL
At 9/08/2006 4:00 PM , augie said...

I've never seen anyone fly faster around the bases then Reyes on his inside the park homer last night. It was like watching the Kiviat brothers fingers move in a lanyard making contest going for their dualing Arts and Crafts awards
At 9/08/2006 4:08 PM , Mitch said...

OK...Should we call Hy so we can break for juice & cookies?

Now...before we get back to baseball I just finished speaking to Ellen Shilling and she wants everyone to know that she is recuperating nicely and wants to send a big hello to everyone...now because she cannot sit by her computer she wants to join in the frey about Derek Jeter.

First of all, the Yankees are in her blood...literally & physically! For those of you who do not know...her parents Jack & Muriel met each other at Yankee Stadium. (Yup that is true)...

If any of you have seen their eldest son Matt, he is the "spitting image" of Derek Jeter.

She absolutely wants to offer her support for Derek as MVP of the American League and will be rooting for him to win it. Just thought I'd pass that info along on the official "Baseball Thread" of the Blog.
At 9/08/2006 10:00 PM , steve kiv said...

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN,

LET ME INTRODUCE YOU TO THE MAKOWSKY'S BLOG. IT IS A PLACE FOR OLD FRIENDS TO RECONNECT IN FRIENDSHIP AND LOVE.

SOMEWHERE ALONG THE WAY WE SEEM TO HAVE LOST OUR WAY.HARMLESS TEASING HAS GOTTEN OUT OF CONTROL. MANY OF US READING THESE ENTRIES DON'T KNOW WHAT IS TEASING AND WHAT IS JUST PLAIN MEAN SPIRITED.

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. IT'S TIME TO GET BACK TO THE ORIGINAL INTENT OF
THIS BLOG.

BOBBY HAS ALWAYS BEEN LIKE A BROTHER TO ME AND SUSIE HAS BEEN MY SISTER. SUSIE MADE A COMMENT THAT BOBBY FOUND OFFENSIVE AND HE REPLIED AND TOLD HER SO. THAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN IT!!!! HIS SECOND ENTRY ABOUT THIS WENT WAY OVER THE LINE. I DON'T APPRECIATE ANY OF MY FAMILY SPEAKING THIS WAY TO EACH OTHER. NO MORE OF THIS.PLEASE!

IF YOU WANT FURTHER DISCUSSION OF THIS, DO IT IN AN E-MAIL. NOT ON THIS BLOG.

THE LAST THING THAT ANY OF US WANTS TO SEE IS OUR FRIENDS BASHING EACH OTHER.
At 9/09/2006 1:36 PM , Bob Hutt said...

Sometimes the teacher can learn from the students. Thank you my friends as I deleted both posts. My apology to all those who I may have offended.

And for those (of you) who do not realize the special bond between myself and my Senior Boys, I would never do anything to deliberately hurt them, nor they me. The love and respect we hold for one another is genuine and has stood the test of time.

If we tweak and tease each other that is because that is what we do. If one says black, the other says white. We always did this but with love and respect.

You should also know that if any of us were ever threatened you had better bring out the National Guard to help you, because we band together as brothers.

Now that I have issued that disclaimer, let the games begin, I say...

Stevie, you don't know "Jack Schitt" about baseball. Mitch will you explain to him why Derek is the MVP.

LOL
At 9/09/2006 6:55 PM , Rob said...

Wait a second, I've played along with Steve many a softball game, both on and off the Colony. Not only does he know his way around the field ,he knows how to take care of it.

I've caught him cutting the left field grass , polishing his bat and balls before the game (whoops sorry about that one) and rolling out the tarp when needed. LOL

All kidding aside , Steve was a pleasure to share the same team with. Also his knee brace used to psyche out the other team , they thought he was a pushover. He still covered a lot of ground , especially in Death Valley Left field.
At 9/10/2006 12:25 AM , LARRY said...

I was talking to Jackie Silverman tonight and maybe we could have the next reunion at Shea Stadium when the mets win the world series this year.Hows that Yankee fans....
At 9/10/2006 12:26 AM , LARRY said...

I still love you kup.....
At 9/10/2006 6:56 AM , Mitch said...

Larry...

I know you are excited about your Mets, and you should be...they have "dominated" the National League. If you do have an achilles heel it would be your starting pitching. I'm not sold on that yet. They will probably get to the World Series this year but please remember your record against the AL teams this season. The Mets took 2 of 3 against Toronto. The Mets lost all 3 against the Red Sox. They split 6 games against the Yankees home & home. So it's not a "lock" that they will win the Series. And remember Larry, be careful what you wish for.
At 9/10/2006 10:01 AM , steve kiv said...

Larry,
Should the Mets beat the Yankees in a World Series, Mitch and Robin would disappear, never to appear on the blog again.

However,if the Mets would lose to the Yankees, we could always revert to Casey Stengels' "wait til next year" (or whoever coined that phrase)!!
At 9/10/2006 10:58 AM , Mitch said...

Steve

You are a Brooklyn boy....you should know that one. That phrase "Wait till next year" was coined by "Dem Bums" until they finally won one in 1955.(My mom was thrilled)

As far as never appearing on the blog again if the Yanks lost to the Mets in the World Series...I'd hate it...absolutely hate it but, I've never run from anything in my life and I won't start now.
At 9/10/2006 6:16 PM , Rob said...

Subway Series...

If you mention that in Florida , they'll think you're talking about the tuesday special at the hero place.
At 9/12/2006 8:54 AM , Mitch said...

Well, just when I thought I was out....they pulled me back in!

If any of you have heard about those comments David Ortiz made (It's in all the papers this morning)...it just further lets me know who the MVP of the AL is this season. Ortiz is so concerned about his stats and the MVP voting it is comical. He slams Jeter by saying "he should hit in this lineup" (I wonder how Big Papi's teamates feel about him now by him disrespecting them) and "Jeter doesn't hit 40 homeruns so he shouldn't be considered an MVP candidate."

Jeter's response..." We are just concerned with winning our division here. not MVP awards" That to me is the essence of an MVP.

Actually I am going to "root" for David Ortiz to win the MVP award.
"Most Vacuous Player"
At 9/12/2006 11:35 AM , steve kiv said...

Big word Mitch!

Do Jeter's comments apply to A-Rod as well?
At 9/12/2006 1:13 PM , Mitch said...

Did you look it up?

You bet they do!
At 9/12/2006 5:42 PM , augie said...

Once more
MVP= Johan Santana, mr Hutt do the stats without the usual anti pitcher diatribe, no one compares to him . He's like Guidry in the dream season or Bob Gibson,every year
At 9/12/2006 6:32 PM , Mitch said...

Augie

I agree that Santana is terrific, but that is why they have Cy Young awards. Starting pichers average 32 starts a year, certainly not as valuable as an everyday player who is out there for at least 150 games a season.

Guidry's dream season in 1978 was unbelievable and probably as good as any pitcher ever, but he didn't win the MVP either that year.

If you want to get technical, to me the MVP for the past decade is Mariano Rivera. Think about where the Yankees would be without him, and he has never even won a Cy Young.

That is just my opinion.
At 9/12/2006 7:13 PM , steve kiv said...

Gol Darn It!
Dad Gum It!

Mitch, I completely agree with you for a change. Without Mario Rivera, the Yankees could never have had their tremendous success. Even if he doesn't get the awards, his glove shold rest in the Hall of Fame !
At 9/12/2006 7:17 PM , Bob Hutt said...

Augie Santana is unbeatable at home with a 22 - 0 record. But Bob Gibson he is not.

I think Gibson lost 3 games by 1 - 0 scores in his record season in 1968 when he went 22 - 9 with an ERA of 1.12.

To understand the magnificence of that special season he started 34 games and had 28 complete games.

They changed the height of the mound after that season and have never done anything since to help the pitcher.

As for Santana I think I agree with Mitch. Mariano is the best I have ever seen at what he does and has been the Yankee MVP for the past 10 seasons. He is as automatic as anyone the game has ever known.

Still I would give the AL Cy Young to Santana and the AL MVP to either Jeter, Dye or Papi. There is no wrong choice

As for the NL MVP it is Ryan Howard without a doubt. He is a one man wrecking crew in only his second year in the Bigs.

The NL Cy Young now that's easy. Hands down it goes to Jose Lima. Without him the Mets would have clinched last July. LOL

Seriously, there is NO Cy Young winner in the NL.
At 9/12/2006 11:20 PM , steve kiv said...

Jack,
I speak to Ado Annie like this all of the time.
She ignores me like everyone else!
At 9/14/2006 10:52 PM , Rob said...

A good substantial Yell !!!
At 9/15/2006 5:07 PM , augie said...

SUBWAY SERIES Screw all the individual awards, we need a SUBWAY SERIES...Panic in the streets.
At 9/15/2006 6:22 PM , Mitch said...

Augie

I think we are on a collision course....NY...NY...

Start spreading the news....
At 9/16/2006 1:00 PM , steve kiv said...

I'm glad tht hockey is almost here. These guys are the best conditioned athletes (except for maybe soccer players).

Do their contracts have dental insurance?

Meet a hockey player in a bar and most likely you can talk over a beer. Any other pro athlete will pour the beer over your head!
At 9/17/2006 8:08 PM , Rob said...

We have by far the finest indoor hockey Arena that the Pathers play in. Now called Bank Atlantic Center. State of the Art, not a bad seat in the whole place, many luxury boxes and a slew of meeting / catering rooms used all yr. They were my client for several yrs , I've spent much time there, cool place
At 9/17/2006 8:24 PM , steve kiv said...

Rob, I've been there for a Panther's game (that wans't a sellout) and for a Jimmy Buffet concert that was.

It's a nice arena!
At 9/18/2006 10:06 PM , Rob said...

Jimmy Buffet is a SoFla icon. He's adored here. Actually he's from Texas.

YOOOO. Mets just clinched the division. My son Matt must be flying high. If there's a Subway series , the'll be fireworks around here. My son Adam is a Yankee fan. Both into the fantasy baseball thing. Die-hard sports fans.
Guess I'll be the Umpire again. ha

9/18/2006 10:05 PM
At 9/18/2006 11:30 PM , Mitch said...

Congrats to the Mets and all their loyal fans. First Division Title since 1988.

Willie Randolph is the 5th Mets manager to reach the post season. Can you name the other 4?

.
At 9/19/2006 8:02 AM , Bob Hutt said...

The very best part of the celebration yesterday was watching David Wright and Jose Reyes lead the METS out of the clubhouse and back onto the field to celebrate with their FANS. They did this for a good 30 minutes or more and SNY stayed with it all the way. Watching David shake hands with the fans doused in champaign with an unlit big stogie in his mouth put a smile on my face. Now that is ONE GUY who gets it!

Congratulations to all MET fans. Now it would be simply wonderful if we can play a subway series. Go Yanks!

Remember way back when when we took it for granted a long time ago that it would always be the Yankees and Dodgers, and sometimes the Giants?
At 9/19/2006 3:23 PM , Mitch said...

Red Barber says..."Gionfrido goes back..back..back...makes a one handed catch in front of the bullpen...oh doctor"

Rus Hodges says..."The Giants win the pennant...the Giants win the pennant...the Giants win the pennant"

Bob Wolf says..."Strike 3...a no hitter a perfect game for Don Larsen"

That was...The Golden Era of Baseball
At 9/19/2006 3:32 PM , Mitch said...

My other favorite calls....

Before Koufax's perfect game...

Vin Scully says..."2 and 2 to Harvey Keunne"

Joe Buck says after a one-legged Kirk Gibson hits a walk off WS homer...

" I don't believe what i just saw"

And my favorite ( partisan Yankee fan that I am ) This occured on Yom Kippur in 1978
Bill White says...

"Deep to left...iiiitsa HOME RUN!
BUCKY DENT"

I must confess I don't remember what was said after that
At 9/19/2006 10:50 PM , Rob said...

Hey we can't forget Bob Eueka in Major league.
At 9/19/2006 11:14 PM , steve kiv said...

Most of those calls we heard on an old 6 transistor radio. It really seemd special!
At 9/20/2006 12:23 AM , Mitch said...

Were you guys like me?

Putting a transistor radio under my pillow to listen when my team traveled to the West Coast. The problem was I would fall asleep and have to change the batteries in the morning.

Or...

Taking a transistor radio into school to listen the World Series.
I remember getting caught by my teacher Mrs. Apsel for doing that in 1960 Yankees/Pirates
At 9/20/2006 5:27 PM , steve kiv said...

I tried to use an ear plug once and got caught. I told the teacher I was having trouble hearing and that the earplug was a hearing aid.

She told me that it must really help listen to the ballgame.

I cleaned the blackboard and the erasers for 1 week for that stunt....but it was worth it.
At 9/21/2006 4:52 PM , augie said...

Has anyone mentioned Casey Stengel yet? Couple him and Yogi together, it's like a night of norm crosby and rodney dangerfild trading one liners
At 9/23/2006 12:20 PM , Bob Hutt said...

Mindy I thought Stevie's story made perfect sense. Judy told me Stevie once took a Viagra, went to sleep, and then woke up with a stiff neck.

Me bad!
At 9/28/2006 9:45 PM , Rob said...

Viagra ...what's in a name?

Vi- VIrile

Agra- AGRAvation
At 9/29/2006 11:50 AM , Mitch said...

OK back to baseball...

Will the Cardinals collapse?
Can Houston make it?

Who will prevail?
The Padres or Dodgers?

Will the Twins or White Sox win their Division?

It's amazing after 159 games we still don't know...I love baseball.
At 9/29/2006 12:09 PM , Mitch said...

My bad...I meant the Tigers not the White Sox
At 9/29/2006 12:14 PM , Mitch said...

OK Jodi....It is simple

After 162 games ( or 163 if there is a single game playoff...we won't go there)
The teams have best of 5 Division Series...
The winners then play a best of 7 Championship Series which determines the National & American League Pennant Winners. Then, and only then the World Series begins in a best of 7. That brings you to the end of October. Does that help?
At 9/29/2006 1:16 PM , Bob Hutt said...

Jodi, Mitch is sought of correct. But let me sum it up for you.

The season actually ends when your Dad gets a base hit; now that's the easy part.

Your Dad waves Stevie into pinch run. Stevie gleefully sheds his knee brace and enters the game.

Now for the bad news, the score is tied and the season doesn't end until Stevie touches the plate and scores.

And as all of us Senior Boys can tell you...

You have a better chance of Hell freezing over.

I'm Bad like Mitch.

The Devil Made Us Do It.

Jodi, please say hi to your sister and your Dad.

Love,

Bobby
At 9/29/2006 7:29 PM , Bob Hutt said...

Jodi & Shari it is so nice to hear from you. One Makowskyite, Eddie Raush (spiceman29@aol.com) who doesn't know how to post on the Blog wrote with his permission to copy and paste his thoughts. Eddie it's so nice to hear from you.

Eddie Raush writes Part 1 ...

Hi Bob,

What a nice surprise hearing from you. I can't tell you how exciting it is just thinking back to those days at Makowsky's. I never went to the day camp when I was there, but I so enjoyed the 3 years spent as counselor and I can tell that you did as well. The guys were so great and it was a great experience to be a "teacher" and to learn at the same time.

I remember your dad Dave especially on the ballfield. My dad Freddie was cut from the same cloth and he was the first baseman on the team through most of the 1950's. To give you an example, I once saw him score the winning run in a game by sliding into home plate wearing shorts on our "field" filled with rocks and his thighs and butt were a bloody mess and he had that scar the whole summer.
Also in 1962, when my dad was 50 and no longer on the regular team, in a game vs Ben Ann, I think it was Dave Baskin who told my dad to pinch hit during a close game. My dad (a lefty) hit a line drive right over the first baseman's head and the ball rolled forever. He chugged around the bases til he reached 3rd and I remember running toward the third base coaches box laughing hysterically telling him I could have rounded the bases twice in the time it took him to get a triple. Memories that will live forever with me.

Bob, it would be my pleasure for you to have someone copy my letter to Mitch and Jackie on to the blog site. It might be the only way I ever get to post something. lol

Warmest regards,
Eddie
At 9/29/2006 7:41 PM , Bob Hutt said...

Eddie Raush Part 2...

(SpiceMan29@aol.com)

Date: Mon, 25 Sep 2006 00:59:33 EDT

>Hi Jackie and Mitch,

This is Eddie Raush and I just wanted to write both of you to tell you how much I'm enjoying reading the Makowsky blogspot.

I've spent hours already reading the comments and looking at the pictures, and the memories just
keep flooding back. I'm so disappointed that Fran and I missed that wonderful reunion in
July but hopefully we'll be able to attend a future one.

I tried writing something twice on the blogspot. One ended up on "Welcome all Makowsky Maniacs"
and the other one just disappeared into never-never land. I guess I don't know the art of blogging yet. I recognize many of the names who write in their comments but I'm not sure of some who are just using the first name.

Bobby Hutt is an amazing writer and anyone reading the comments from you two or Steve, Judy, Jodi, Nona etc can just feel the love and affection. It was sad reading
about the passing of Milton, but the comments from his family and friends here put it all into perspective on the wonderful man he was.

Also Hy Ozer being just as caring now as he was during all his years as head of the day camp is obvious to anyone reading these blogs.

Jackie, you're amazing recognizing my sister Fran after all these years. She was so excited meeting you once again and also talking to you Mitch on the phone. We're like kids again being back at Makowsky's.

Speaking of Makowskys, I spent 15 years there from 1950-1964 and a few years as counsellor between
1958 and 1960. I can honestly say that the two of you along with Arthur Kaplan just stick out in my mind as being great kids and I can see that you've just carried that through to your adult years. Can you remember any of the others who
might have been in the group to refresh my memory?

I remember both of your families very well. Jackie, you were the baby and I hung around more with your sister Marsha and your brother Bert. Your mom Rose was full of energy and you could always see how much she loved the family.

Mitch, your mom Norma was a beautiful lady who was always so kind to me and I can see she brought up her family the same way.

Your sister Nona was much younger but I can still see her blonde hair and those big beautiful blue
eyes.

In 1959, I met Tobey Freed at Makowskys. You might remember her brother Bruce who was born in 1947 and is closer to your ages.

Tobey and I got married in 1964 and just celebrated our 42nd anniversary a few days ago. We might be in the Guinness book of records for the longest marriage of a couple meeting at Makowskys.

(Take that Judy and Steve) lol

We had 3 boys one of whom passed away in 1992 and still live in Suffern NY in Rockland County. Jackie, we're neighbors. :-) I'm a CPA and have worked for a small spice importing company for the last 33 years and hence the
screen name Spiceman 29@aol.com.

We were in the World Trade Center for 15 years but fortunately moved
out to New Jersey in 1986.

I'm sure one of these days, I'll learn how to navigate the web site
properly and be able to contribute from time to time. In the eantime, I'd love hearing from both of you either by email or by phone. (845)-357-6440.

Mitch, if you have one of those packets about the people who are on the blog site, I'd really appreciate it if you could send it to me.

My address is:
33 Sagamore Ave. Suffern, NY 10901

I can't thank both of you enough for the enjoyment and the excitement of returning to those wonderful days.

With warmest regards,
Eddie Raush
At 10/05/2006 5:31 PM , augie said...

Jody, you are a blog addict, if you don't get help we'll have to cut your cables. Let's put our award picks in and see how everyone does and do proper ragging .
AL MVP Morneau
AL Cy Santana
NY MVP Pujols only since Philly didn't make it
NL Cy Hoffman, no startes dereve it.
At 10/06/2006 11:21 PM , steve kiv said...

ooops!

One of those nights.

KENNY ROGERS????

YANKS COULDN'T HIT ROY ROGERS!!!
At 10/07/2006 7:33 AM , Mitch said...

Did the Yanks think that was the other Kenny Rogers?... because I think the Yankees just dropped in to see what condition my condition was in.

...and now it is DNR
At 10/07/2006 8:39 AM , augie said...

I told my diehard yankee fan that us Met fans were lucky Pedro was DL 'ed so we didn't have to use him but the Yanks were stuck on Randy Johnson who is through
At 10/07/2006 9:57 AM , Bob Hutt said...

Augie one lesson I learned in life was never to kick a dog when it is down. The reason is that the dog may still have some bite left in him.

I am a Met fan too but have great respect for the NY Yankees. Do not be surprised if this great team gets off the canvas and battles back bravely.

Without question their batting order is the toughest I have ever seen and that includes Murderer's Row from the 1927 Yankees.

Like everyone else I am in shock that Kenny Rogers picked last night to pitch the game of his life; but that he did.

What I would tell my team is to tip their cap to him, get it out of their mind, and come out today with a vengeance to knot the score and let's go back home and win this thing.

If I know Joe Torre that is exactly what he said last night. Augie sorry, but I have a feeling that your dog may not go gentle into that good night. If anything, Augie, you may have awakened the sleeping dog as you are about to find out.

As Stevie will tell you, you must wait until the dog is dead and buried before writing the obituary.

OK Yankee fans have I stated your case?

As a Met fan, to be the best, you want to beat the best, and for me win or lose, I want the Yankees as all roads come through New York.
At 10/07/2006 10:47 AM , Rob said...

All the Stats in the world don't mean squat. When chemistry exists on a team anything can happen. Destiny rules.

Yes it appears the Yanks were playing in 'Mr Rogers hood'. "Can you say Baseball? "
At 10/08/2006 1:56 AM , Mitch said...

Let me be the first....

Congrats to all Mets fans. You look like your team is on a mission and will be hard to stop.

I can't believe I'm saying this....

LETS GO METS!
At 10/08/2006 8:02 AM , Bob Hutt said...

Augie, you were right as you can stick the fork in the Yankees as they are done. They were unceremoniously dumped from the party by the upstart Detroit Tigers who had the worst record in baseball since the All Star game and had been swept by the lowly Kansas City Royals on the last weekend of the regular season when all they had to win was just one game.

This reminded me of the NY Yankees who last won a world championship when heading into the final week of the season on a prolonged losing streak. Such is baseball.

As my father once taught me, good pitching stops good hitting each and every time. As for the Yankees their pitching staff was NOT spectacular in any sense of the word but the Tigers had exceptional pitching in this series. Kudo's to Jim Leyland who is without a doubt one of the best managers ever.

As for Joe Torre I'm certain that George "The Bully" Steinbrenner will be calling for his head as the sacrificial lamb to offer up to the baseball Gods for the Yankees early exit from the playoffs. Perhaps Joe should have pitched Ron Guidry, Jim Katt, Al Leiter & Whitey Ford because they couldn't do any worse than the current staff he was given.

Torre is a class guy and a wonderful manager, not perfect, but a good one who doesn't deserve this garbage from The Boss.

AROD will be crucified and run out of town on a rail. So his personality is not like Derek Jeter's. Big deal. Nonetheless, he's without question one of the best players of all time, but the fans love to let him know that he's not Derek as he folds under the pressure. It doesn't say much for Yankee fans that they place such insurmountable pressure on their best player, but they do all of the time. It's impossible to work in an environment where everyone roots for you to FAIL.

It would be sad if he were traded? But can you spell Carlos Zambrano for AROD with Aramis Ramirez playing 3B for next season. You heard it here first.

Yankee fans there's nothing to be ashamed of. Your team had a tremendous year, overcame adversity, and won the battle of Beantown with a five game sweep over the hated Red Sox.

With some pitching help you will be back with a vengenace next season. I only hope that Joe returns with them. Right about now George is dialing Lou Pinella on his speed dial.

Let's Go Mets!
At 10/08/2006 9:15 AM , Mitch said...

Bob

Not every Yankee fan wants to see ARod gone. I think that is alot of media hype (talk radio mainly)that fuels the "young fans" at the stadium. You hear them cheer ARod before he bats and then boo him when he fails. These young fans are spoiled who have only seen Yankee success since 1995.

I have been a Yankee fan since 1957 and have seen the Yankees collapse after 1964 season and then lived through all those bad years ( Horace Clarke, Fritz Peterson, etc.) and then wait till their resurgence in 1976-1978. Then only collapse again until 1995.

It is those Yankee fans that are spoiled and have not seen any failure until now. So, the Yankees have not won a World Series since 2000. Well they lost a hearbreaking World Series to Arizona in 2001. They were beat by the Angels in 2002. They won a terrific ALCS in 2003 against the Red Sox ( Aaron Boone) but lost to the upstart Marlins in the World Series. Of course they lost in a monumental collapse to the Red Sox in 2004. Again in 2005 to the Angels and now to the Tigers.

Wake up and smell the coffee Yankee fans. I know the media says if the Yankees do not win a World Series then the season is a failure. I disagree with that totally. They have been in the playoffs 11 years in a row.

These so called "young Yankee fans" are front runners because of all they have seen is Yankees success. They now vent their frustrations at ARod as he is the cause. I hope he stays because he is a remarkable player who already is a Hall of Famer. He is not the cause....The Yankees are built to blugeon their opponent during the regular season. They lack what has been an old baseball adage for years, We all know what it is...

GOOD PITCHING WILL STOP GOOD HITTING.

I hope Mount Steinbrenner does not erupt and fire Joe Torre and trade ARod. If he does...it will be a mistake. If he does trade ARod...then it better be for some "Young Power Arms" like a Dontrelle Willis etc.

If the Yanks are smart they can tweak this team. That is not resign Sheffield, let an aging Mussina go, hope that Carl Pavano (remember him) gets healthy or trade him and cut your losses. Basically revamp the pitching staff if you can with young power arms.

I will not hang my head in shame. I have been truly entertained these last 11 years. If it is the end, then it has been "One Hellava Run"
At 10/08/2006 4:08 PM , steve kiv said...

First of all, I am a Mets fan.

It never fails to amaze me that no matter how successful the Yankees season is, to their fans the glass is always half empty.

If they don't win the Series, then the season is a failure. How conceited is that???

I can think of several teams that would sign up for a playoff spot guanantee every time.

With a 200 Million dollar payroll the Yankees have proven that the only thing this money can buy is a very competitive team and a huge luxury tax bite.

It does not buy team chemistry. It doesn't prevent older great players from suddenly playing like their age. It doesn't prevent injuries.

The Yankees had a great season. It is as simple as that. They had a great winning season despite the fact that they have only 2 decent starting pitchers. (Wang is terrific)They acheived this record with key injuries. (the Yankees would have been better off if Sheffield never came back.!)

Their team chemistry is very suspect. Who is going to teach Cano and Melky how to be great Yankees? A-Rod, Sheffield, Giambi?
I don't think so. Jeter can't do it by himself.

As for A-Rod, his "problem" is NOT Jeter. It"s a 25 Million dollar salary.He makes more money than most Yankees fans can dream about. He makes more money then most lottery payouts. The fans resent this. Not just Yankees fans who expect salvation for this salary, but all reasonable fans everywhere. A-Rod is one of the greatest players in history. One one can dispute this. However, he is not a great player under pressure and playing in NY does not help. Playing for the Mets would not make a difference.
Why would Texas trade him in the first place? They realized that as great a player as he is youcannot build a team around him and expect him to carry it.

When the Yankees re-tool for next year they would be well advised to
look to their own back yard.

Bernie, Mo, Jeter, Wang. These are the players that deserve the right to be called NY Yankees.
Not Sheffield, Giambi, Johnson, Pavano. Melky and Cano are coming.

Torre did a great job with a flawed team. I hope the boss doesn't make him the scape goat so he can go after Sweet Lou.

Wait Til Next Year!
At 10/09/2006 6:21 AM , Mitch said...

Steve...

We actually agree. How could that be?

In my humble opinion, the only way the Yankees move along further in the post season is with better pitching.

They have a "stud" prospect in their own system right now. His name is Philip Hughes. I hope he makes the roster nest season. Build a staff around Wang, Hughes, and maybe you trade A-Rod to Anaheim for someone like Ervin Santana, or Florida for Dontrelle Willis. Now you have infused "new blood" in an otherwise aging rotation. (Remember, after Seattle traded A-Rod to Texas, the Mariners won 116 games)

But, for now all New Yorkers should get behind that team in Flushing otherwise known as "TEAM CHEMISTRY"
At 10/09/2006 10:04 AM , Bob Hutt said...

Stevie I am very proud of you as you wrote the truth. George Steinbrenner is 76 going on 2. He is not getting his way so he will fire Joe Torre, the best manager in the game for managing these pampered spoiled-brat millionaires who should kiss the ground they walk on.

The way I see it George should instead hold his breath turn blue and die! To blame Joe, or even suggest that he's responsible for this bunch of misfits, is so wrong that I find it offensive.

But George being George Joe will take the hit for this very flawed team without chemistry. Stevie you hit the nail on the head. Mussina, Shefield and some of the other free agents should not be invited back. Let them take their mercenary arms and bats for hire to some other town for all I care.

On the other hand, the Yankees must build this team back up with youth. Their prized pitching prospect should now go to AAA and not be expected to be the second coming of Randy Johnson? Speaking of which, he should retire and start collecting social security. He is another ME player who personally I can't stand.

Can you imagine my father or Dave Baskin managing this bunch of malcontents today? I shudder because most of them would get the living shit beat out of them before they were cut.

LOL
At 10/14/2006 11:17 AM , Rob said...

You can Thank Catfish Hunter for creating the monster that prevails in baseball today. There is nothing better than watching young hungry players come together and form the chemistry to win. I realize that most ballplayers want to win , but also realize that they know their paycheck will be arriving either way. What good is a world series ring that collects dust. Remember The Jerry Maguire line
"show me the money"
At 10/14/2006 11:55 AM , Mitch said...

Rob, I believe you are only partially correct.

You can thank Curt Flood who challanged baseball's "reserve clause" in the 70's. Although he lost in court...Marvin Miller persuaded Andy Messesmith and Dave McNally to play without contracts for a season and then declare themselves free agents. (I believe that is the way it went)The Union had no choice but to comply.

And, then the flood of free agents began. Baseball was never the same.
At 10/14/2006 3:17 PM , Bob Hutt said...

History of the Major League Baseball Players Association AND FREE AGENCY AS WRITTEN BY THE PLAYERS ASSOCIATION:

YOU WILL PUKE WHEN YOU GET TO THE LAST SENTENCE.

---------------------------------

Unionization in baseball goes back almost as far as the professional game itself. Opposed to baseball’s reserve clause and a growing movement led by Albert Spalding to cap players’ salaries, John Montgomery Ward and eight other players in 1885 formed the first players union in baseball -- the Brotherhood of Professional Base Ball Players.

That was nine years after the creation of the National League and six years before the American League came into existence. Other attempts to organize players included the creation of the Players' Protective Association in 1900, the Fraternity of Professional Baseball Players of America in 1912, and the American Baseball Guild in 1946.

None of those efforts proved sufficient in bringing an end to the reserve clause, which bound players to their respective clubs.

Players, however, regrouped again in 1965 and sought outside expertise to help their cause. Their search led them to Marvin Miller, a highly respected economist for the United Steelworkers of America, who immediately began to mold the players into a bona fide labor union. His first steps were to shore up the union’s finances by beginning a group licensing program and educating the players about the fundamentals of organizing and solidarity.

In 1968, Miller helped players negotiate the first-ever collective bargaining agreement (CBA) in professional sports. The agreement raised the minimum salary in baseball from $6,000 – the level at which it had been stuck for two decades – to $10,000 and set the tone for future advances. In 1970, Miller helped players negotiate the right to arbitration to resolve grievances – an achievement Miller considers the most significant of the union’s early years because the process paved the way for future gains.

The successful founding of the MLBPA changed the landscape of professional sports forever, serving notice that highly skilled athletes would seek the same basic employment rights that people in other professions had long taken for granted.

Miller served as the MLBPA's executive director from 1966 through 1983, and during his tenure base salaries, pension funds, licensing rights and revenues were brought to new levels, laying the groundwork that helped create what is widely considered one of the strongest unions in the country.

Among the many milestones achieved under Miller's watch was the advent of free agency rights.

Curt Flood’s unsuccessful challenge of the reserve clause started the ball rolling toward free agency. Funded by his fellow players, Flood sued Major League Baseball privately. Flood eventually lost his case in the U.S. Supreme Court, but the battle educated countless players and millions of Americans about the fundamental inequity of the reserve system, which perpetually renewed a player's contract, essentially binding the player to one club for life, or until that club decided to get rid of the player.

Just three years after Flood vs. Kuhn, players Andy Messersmith and Dave McNally once again challenged the reserve clause. This time, instead of a trial in a court of law, an independent arbitrator heard the case. And in December 1975, the players finally won the right to free agency, when arbitrator Peter Seitz ruled that the reserve clause granted a team only one additional year of service from a player, putting an end to perpetual renewal right the clubs had claimed for so long.

It was during the Messersmith/McNally hearing, and the clubs’ attempt to overturn the ruling, that Miller met Don Fehr, the MLBPA's current executive director. Fehr assisted the MLBPA's defense as a Kansas City-based attorney, and two years later, in 1977, Miller hired Fehr to join the Association as general counsel.

Fehr served in this capacity until 1986, when the players named him executive director. Fehr has continued Miller's legacy of keeping the players united, by keeping them informed and educated on the issues that involve not only their professional lives.

The strength of the Association can be measured in its gains, and despite work stoppages of various lengths during eight CBA negotiations, the solidarity and resolve of the players has never been stronger. Each generation of players has passed along a legacy and a responsibility to the next generation - a legacy built on equality, loyalty and fair play.
At 10/14/2006 3:21 PM , Bob Hutt said...

Each generation of players has passed along a legacy and a responsibility to the next generation - a legacy built on equality, loyalty and fair play.

THE LEGACY IS DEWEY, SCREW, EM & HOW.

WE STEAL FROM THE OWNERS, ROB THE FANS, AND GO ON THE INJURED RESERVE AND EXPECT TEN YEAR CONTRACTS.

AND YEAH, DON'T FORGET TO PAY US FOR OUR AUTOGRAPH AT $150 PER POP. YOU JUST HAVE TO LOVE THIS GAME!
At 10/14/2006 5:50 PM , Mitch said...

Bobby...

Remember... we do love this game...

When we played it every day...

It was pure fun...

Never did we think that something called "free agency" would change the game we love forever...

Life was so simple then...

Too bad....
At 10/14/2006 9:25 PM , steve kiv said...

hey guys!

Go watch TV or read a book or even talk with your significant other.

Who cares about this???
At 10/16/2006 6:15 PM , augie said...

The problem with Yankee fans is they truly think that anything less then world champs is a bad year. They had a great year. If the Met's slide by the cards I'm terrified of the tigers,who look like true team of destiny. You can buy the best players like a fantasy team but the young hungry guys always seem to beat the rich old war horses. Otherwize there would never be anything but major market teams in the world series.It's virtually impossible to guarantee that you have great pitching. Very few pitchers have more then one/two great years in a row. the 21st century style is clearly toward mega relief staffs. Get 4/5 innings from starters and that's it. Too bad the Yanks coulden't make it to Mo, then they wolud be in the Series.Me i'm looking for the Carlos' to hit more homers and wright/Reyes to get rolling then on to leyland's boys.
At 10/16/2006 9:30 PM , Rob said...

Hy I had a similar experience with Lou Pinella years ago when he was a player down in spring training. I was with my father in law Jack (who was the eternal yankee fan ) Lou snubbed us for a autograph , he screamed " NO MORE AUTOGRAPHS" with such a beligerent voice and a 'fabisinna' face , he pissed us both off. All I can say is FU Lou glad you're not coming back.

"We don neeed no damn autograph"
At 10/17/2006 11:48 AM , Mitch said...

Rob & Hy

Here is my story. About 11 years ago I was lucky enough to get Knicks tickets on the Garden floor under the basket 4 rows deep. Phenominal seats! I took my son Jason, who was 14 at the time. The Knicks were a great team back then and had just lost in the 1994 NBA finals to the Houston Rockets.

During the game, my son kept asking me if he could go over to Spike Lee and get his autograph. He was there with his wife and infant child at the time. I said he was with his family and not to bother him. After the game was over, poeple started to mill on the floor and Spike was actually signing autographs. I said to Jason, just make sure you address him as Mr. Lee and ask him politely.

Well, he absolutely refused him and my son walked away very upset. He walked back to me and said I did what you asked, but he said no! We then looked over to him and he was signing autographs for young black fans. I am not making this up...this actually happened...and Jason to this day calls him names I will not put on this blog.
At 10/17/2006 12:44 PM , augie said...

One good autograph story. my true hero Willis Reed used a sports medicine doctor (Doc Sherman) right across from the JCH on bay Parkway and 79th St. How i lost my autograph i'll never know but he was HAPPY, truly happy to sign anyone's and talk to us too, and this is when most of us were raggy looking 16/17 year olds.
In 1992 i worked over Delmonico's off wall St and Dave Debuscher(no spellcheck)was a regular who loved to drink with my receptionist and bought me a beer or two. once i got over my hero worship he really was a regular guy.
At 10/17/2006 4:15 PM , Bob Hutt said...

Listening to your stories brings back a flood of memories. Mickey Mantle pushing me aside as a boy when I asked for his autograph.

Me alone with the Nets Derrick Coleman underneath the bowelsl of the Meadowlands after he had presented me with the winning trophy in a race. I told him my oldest son Jared had his poster on his wall and that I would appreciate an autograph. He refused and blew me off saying that if he gave me an autograph he would have to give everyone. I asked if since there was only me what the hell was he talking about? I told him a few choice words while he was standing there with Sam Bowie who told him he was dead wrong.

But then again, there are good guys. Don Maynard giving me his autograph in 1963 standing in his blue jeans with his wife while with the Titans at the Polo Grounds. We met up in Las Vegas many years later. I walked up to him like we were old friends.

He was hosting a Superbowl party and I was one of the guests. I said Don, you don't remember me? How is that pretty blonde wife of yours and your #13 Cowboy belt buckle. He couldn't believe that I could remember that but I did. He said his wife was as pretty as ever and his belt was given to his Mom in Oklahoma. I then asked if she knew Jackie "Curly" Silverman of Oklahoma. He said it was a big state and then apologized for not remembering who I was.

I laughed and told him that he was very nice to a strange kid many years ago. I futher said that I appreciated his kindness that day as he made a big impression on me. I congratulated him on making the Hall of Fame and we both laughed.

My younger son Aaron is a die hard NY Ranger fan. We were at Garden State Park racing another horse back in April of 1992.

I saw the great rookie Eric Lindros of the then Philadelphia Flyers sitting with a bunch of Flyers in the dining room near me. Aaron saw him and was going nuts. I slipped away and asked the Maitre'D if he was a good guy to which she replied that he was.

A short while later guess who sat down across from me and put his arm around Aaron like he was his best friend? Yup, Eric Lindros.

He chatted with Aaron for ten minutes and came down to watch us saddle our horse.

Jared is a lifetime Miami Dolphin fan. His hero has always been Dan Marino.

Dan eats at a restaurant in which he has his own special booth at Runway 84. In his last season I was there with Jared, when I mentioned to another owner a very good friend of Don Shula, how much Jared loved Dan.

Wouldn't you guess that Dan came over and chatted with Jared. Watching my son's face light up was too much.

I then asked Dan if he could beat the Seahawks on the Road getting 4 1/2 points? He guaranteed he'd beat them. And that he did.

I watched the game with Bryan Cox the LB at Calder Race Course. Bryan had no idea that the clock stopped with an incomplete pass in the waning stages of the game.

After listening to this now coach with Jets I never made another football bet again. He was a very nice guy but didn't even know the rules.

The bottom line is that for every stuck up moron in professional sports there are good guys too who realize the impact they make on the young fans.

I am friends with "The Count" John Montefusco who is still friends with some of our old time players.

And last but not least I have a story about my father Dave. You all should remember that he was a screamer and as tough as nails. He was harder on me than anyone else.

My Dad was a stubborn SOB in the mode of the immortal Dave Baskin. Well, my Dad worked in the GPO in NY across from MSG.

His best friend was Joe Singleton, the father of Kenny Singleton.

Joe, a very proud black man, did not want Kenny to become a broken down lifetime professional baseball player when the family lived in Mt. Vernon, NY.

He was forcing Kenny to go to college in the same manner that his brother Fred had gone to Penn State. Kenny was raised to listen to his parents.

It was my father who prevailed upon Joe and reasoned with him to give Kenny 4 years to make the Major Leagues. If he failed to acheive his goal within the time frame, Kenny then had to agree to go back to college. The rest is history as Kenny made the Mets in three years.

His biggest success came with the Expo's and finally the Baltimore Orioles. My father would go to the pre exhibition games where the team played games amongst itself to check on Kenny every year.

Kenny always offered my father free tickets, but as you might suspect, my father would never accept them.

One winter before the exhibition season started, Jared and I were in FL visiting my parents. My Dad took Jared who was then 4, and I, to the ballpark. Jared knew who Kenny was and loved the Orioles who had won a World Series. He knew all the players on that team even at that young age.

Kenny was in the batting practice cage when he noticed my father arrive. I'll never forget Kenny seeing my father and calling for "time".

He said, "Mr. Hutt give me ten more minutes and I will come over."

My Dad with his raspy voice replied out loud in front of his teammates,

"Kenny, you'd better do well because I need to report to your father if you're working hard."

Ken was then one of the most feared and respected sluggers in all of baseball and here was my father talking to him the same way he used to talk to me.

Of course, by this time I had learned that my father did have a sense of humor even if it was not often used. LOL

The entire ballpark of Ken's teammates erupted with laughter including Earl Weaver.

A short while later Kenny about 6 4", perhaps a bit taller in spikes, came over and took Jared into his arms.

He said, Jared I know all about you from your grandfather. "How would you like to meet Jim Palmer, Cal Ripken, Eddie Murphy, Earl Weaver and the rest of the world champion Baltimore Orioles"?

Jared took one look back at me and his Grandpa amd started crying, "Daddy".

I laughed and said, someday Jared when you are older, I will tell this story as I must about what you are passing up. You will live to reret this moment. We both still laugh about it today!

Kenny came back with an autographed baseball from all his teammates.

So the bottom line is, for every jerk, there are some truly good guys who deserve our praise and gratitude.
At 10/18/2006 9:40 AM , Bob Hutt said...

Well, this is what it boils down to boys & girls; either the Mets win two games in a row or they pack their bats and balls and go home for the winter?

I have been watching baseball for a long long time. I have never seen anything like this. The Mets are trying to get into the World Series with one 40-year old pitcher Tom Glavine as their ACE and only pitcher.

Met fans what would you give now for Tom Seaver, Jerry Koosman, Gary Gentry, Sid Fernandez, Nolan Ryan, Dwight Gooden, Ron Darling, Bob Ojeda, etc. to be stepping on that mound tonight?

Instead we get John Maine? Would you say there is a little bit of pressure on the young man? Let's just hope that he doesn't act like a deer peering into the headlights?

Win or lose it has been a great season. If we win the next two games we get the right to play the Tigers in the World Series. At least for that one, El Duque and Me will be fresh and ready to go!

I haven't started a game in 25 years but I'm ready as I can't be any worse than Stever Trachsel!

LOL
At 10/18/2006 1:42 PM , Mitch said...

Bob

I hope the Mets get to a 7th game...and if they do, I can't see the Mets starting Steve Trachsel...I think he has pitched his last game for the Mets already.
First of all...the game would be completed in November...and secondly....I think you should call Omar Minaya and furnish all the Senior Boys names. We'll be sure to give you glowing references!
At 10/18/2006 4:44 PM , augie said...

No problem we got Mookie in Center and Ron Swoboda in Right tonite Piece of cake. When do the Mets ever make it easy?
At 10/19/2006 9:31 AM , Bob Hutt said...

I am writing this for Eddie Rausch as he writes...

Hi Bob,

Thanks for adding me to your email and it reminded me of a situation that took place about 12 years ago. I was at a diner with my wife and mentally handicapped son Andrew who was about 22 at the time. As it happened, my other son Rob had given Andrew one of his many sports caps that evening and it was a North Carolina hat.

We were sitting in a booth finishing dinner and out of nowhere Lawrence Taylor comes over and starts giving my son high 5's for the cap as that happened to be Taylor's school. Although he is not known for being fan friendly, he slid in the booth next to my son, ordered desserts and for the next 20 minutes talked to us about the Giants past season and how adamantly opposed he was to getting rid of Phil Simms after the season that had just ended.

Being a huge Giant fan, I ate this up but the look on my son's face as this big guy sitting next to him was laughing and talking was the highlight of the evening. I'll never forget that night and the kindness that Lawrence Taylor showed my son.

It's amazing that one gesture either positive or negative can have such a lasting impression on someone, whether young or old.

Eddie
At 10/19/2006 9:37 AM , Bob Hutt said...

Well the Mets did the job yesterday and need just one more to get to the World Series.

If they make it, and here's hoping they do, we can all take our transistor radios out and hope that Stevie Kiviat doesn't get caught by his teachers once again.

It's a fact but do you know that Stevie is still serving detention after school for getting caught in public school. Mitch as you always said Stevie sure could take his lumps. LOL

Anyway I am starting my warmup tosses this morning, but somehow my pitches are not reaching home plate? Did the distance get longer or...
LOL

Let's Go Mets!
At 10/20/2006 3:30 PM , Mitch said...

There is no joy in Metsville today, yada yada yada.

I still think there is alot to look forward to if you are a Mets fan, because the future looks so bright.

Today is a day of mourning and I know it takes some time to get "it" out of your system. I spoke to 2 Mets fans today ( Jackie & Larry ) and they are obviously dissapointed but know that there are better times ahead.

I have to say that the catch by Chavez in the 6th was the greatest catch I ever saw ( almost as good as Larry's on Route 209 )...and if the Mets had won the NLCS then we would be talking about that catch like we talk about Willie Mays catch of Vic Wertz or Sandy Amoros of Yogi Berra. It was that good!

Kudos for the Mets...It was a great season!
At 10/20/2006 9:21 PM , Bob Hutt said...

Ah yes, that catch on Rt. 209 by Larry Brown put a smile on my face once again.

At the time I didn't know if I still had a "no-hitter" or if Larry had been run over by a car?

It was Stevie Kiviat who said, "Bobby I don't know if he is still alive, but if he's dead, I'll check to see if the ball is in the glove?"

What a guy! What a guy that Stevie!

All Met fans should be proud as our team did its best and the other guys did a little bit better. Tip your cap, remember that catch, and we'll get em next year!
At 10/24/2006 10:07 PM , LARRY said...

Well, it's been a long time since i have blogged.To all of you that have been writing i thank you for keeping up the makowsky spirit.Ill never forget that day at Sondacks field if you called that a field... When i ran back to chase the ball i never thought i would run out of real estate.When i landed on my ass and looked up at cows crossing 209, i thought i wasnt in kansas anymore.All those crappy fields we played in over the years made us feel special to play at home on our yankee stadium.We had an all star team for all those years and the reason was not only how good we played together, but how much love we all have for one another.Ill alway treasure those summer games and memories..LoL
At 10/25/2006 10:05 AM , augie said...

Rob, all these Hutt's boys Softball stories are killing me. We could kick their little (not Jackie's) hinnies in. We had a great team , I remember going to Majestic and beating some great teams. I'm getting my southpaw screwball ready for them right now. Any good stories?
At 10/25/2006 3:52 PM , Bob Hutt said...

Larry listening to you retell that catch put a smile on my face. The only better catches I ever saw were Willie Mays, Ron Swaboda and now Endy Chavez. But your catch to save my NO HITTER is the BEST of the BEST as were my Senior Boys softball team.

Augie, believe me our guys were good. I never saw you guys play as I was in the Army by then but your team would have to be very, very good to have beat my guys.

Larry is correct in that the love we had for one another knows no bounds. I can't remember ever having to step between any of the guys to stop a fight; as a matter of fact, there were never even any bad words exchanged.

We were a team in the truest sense of the word. That was our magic, and of course, Mitch teeing one into the short porch in the right field woods; not to mention Little Stevie Kiviat patroling centerfield with that huge glove in front of his face bigger than he was and zoning in on the ball like radar. Ah, those were the days indeed!

If we ever lost a game and I'm certain we lost a few, I can't remember it.

All our games were victorious as were our memories of that special time. I hope you Rob, and your generation had the same comradderie that we had with each other.

In a way, I only wish that I did not grow up and could have managed and incorporated your team into ours. Seriously, you would have had a tough time beating out the Schleifer's, Mitch, Larry, Stevie, Bernie, Jackie, and few others.

We didn't take any prisoners, and if memory serves me correctly, in the last year we came of age. We beat Dave Baskin, who was I think about 100 back then, my Dad, Shelly, and of course two fastballs and a change up Al Markowitz as well as the other men of the colony. We were the best in the short time we played together.

I never threw two consecutive pitches at the same speed. I threw slow, slower, and slowest and kept everyone off balance. I was the Kenny Rogers of my time.

God those were wonderful days!
At 10/25/2006 7:36 PM , Mitch said...

Bobby...

Reading your last post had me grinning from ear to ear.

You helped me remember a wonderful moment in my childhood. The day we beat the "Men of Makowskys"

But first, let me address something you touched on. We were a great team back then..."Hutts Senior Boys" I'm sorry Augie, but if you don't want to read this then you can skip this part....

Yes, we were a great team (my recollection tells me we lost only one game during that special "Boys of Summer" season) We were also a unique group of boys who got along so well and we had a respect for one another that it remains in all of our memories.

Ok Augie, you can read this because it probably pertains to you as well in one form or another. I remember as a young kid at age 9 or 10 going down to the field on Sundays to watch our fathers play softball. They were a pretty good team as I remember, they cleaned up on the "Ulster County Circuit"

I used to go down there with one wish always. Yes, I cheered them on as we all did, but I couldn't wait for my shining moment when after Dave Baskin would stroke a single to left....he would jog down to first, step on the bag and then cast an eye in my direction. He'd say, "hey Mitchie, come in and run for me." As a 9 year old kid who loved baseball, that truly made my day. Sometimes Dave would call Kiv's name and that was OK, because I knew Dave wasn't going "one for four"...he was good for at least two hits every Sunday.

That is why the day we beat the MEN was so special to all of us. We all grew and learned from them. It was like a passing of the torch, so to speak.

We were all so excited when it happened. I also remember Dave coming over to us and offering us his congrats. That wasn't easy for him, because he was such a competitor...but he was gracious in defeat and I saw that twinkle in his eye...it made me smile. ( he probably turned away and muttered something unwriteable but that was the way he played the game)

And Bobby...if you were the Kenny Rogers of that time...then I have a question. What did you use to rub up the softballs? There was no pine tar at that time. Did you use the leftover milk you wouldn't finish and combine it with some Makowsky's dirt? Or, did you use the "glitter & glue" from Arts & Crafts that we obviously never ever used?
At 10/26/2006 7:40 PM , Bob Hutt said...

Reading all the posts about that magical summer on the ballfield at Makowsky's brought a special TV moment to mind.

For those of you who do remember black and white TV, do you remember the old 1962 Twilight Zone episode entitled "Kick The Can"?

It was written by George Clayton Johnson about a group of Senior Citizens at a nursing home who for one night were transformed back into the innocence of childhood for that one special night to relive those precious moments.

How would all of us like to go back to our real field of dreams for just one more day to play the game we loved with our loved one's who have since passed.

I can see my father pitching to Seymour Kiviat and Shelly coming up and hitting a long triple and crashing into the third basemen and coming up swinging.

Dave Baskin and my father would grab Shelly and calm him down as his passion for the game was too much. As they say in life the good die much too young.

I may be sentimental but I would give anything to hear my father Dave, once again say, "Bobby do you want to have a catch?"

Everytime I see that scene in Field of Dreams I think of him.

All I can say it was my honor and my privlidge to have played with all of you. You were the best of the best.

If all professional teams today had the same chemistry that we enjoyed, instead of being mercenaries for hire, the game of baseball would be so much better. It is just a sad commentary on the ME FIRST generation of the 21st century.

A guy crowded the plate on me I threw the softball as fast as I could high and inside to back him off. Could you imagine Sal "The Barber" Maglie pitching to these Prima Donnas of today? Now that is one scary thought. Anyone for a shave?

LOL
At 10/26/2006 8:34 PM , steve kiv said...

I couldn't wait for Saturday and Sunday morning for the softball game announcement to begin. I'd love to go to the ballfield with my father to watch the game and for some time to be with my dad.

As I got older I would get to the field early to play in the outfield and to shag flys. I'd hang around and I'd hope that the men wouldn't have enough players and maybe the'd let me play.

Anyway, one Saturday it had poured the night before and left field had a "lake" in it. None of the men would play out there since they didn't want to risk ending their weekend on crutches.
I volunteered and someone said "let the kid play".The rest is history. I caught about 6 ball in the outfield but the best part was that I threw out 2 runners at home plate. After that I was a regular and I lived for these weekend games.

Some of the best times were the away games and we used to play the Alligerville firemen, Majestic, Sondak and Linden House.
Coming back to the colony with the horns blaring after a win was an awesome feeling.

I couldn't hit much but if I hit against Alan Markowitz , of course I "waited on the change" and usually got a hit or two.

Dave Baskin was tougher but eventually I learned to time him too.Dave seemed old and grouchy at the time. In fact he was so "old" that he played for over 20 more years including league play in FL. I loved him then and I love him still.

Trivia:
I told you I wasn't a great hitter. In fact I think I only hit 1 home run. Mitch was playing left field and he "cheated" and came in. I hit the ball over his head and by the time he chased it down, I limped home, knee brace and all. The ball didn;t even reach the woods on the roll.
Thanks Mitch!

More trivia:
Rob, One weekend I "borrowed" your fathers 6 finger glove. He wasn't using it much since he started to live on the tennis courts before playing gin in the afternoon. In fact I still have it and I use it whenever I can. You'll see it at the next reunion
At 11/16/2006 4:34 PM , augie said...

still my mvp choice
NEW YORK (AP) -- Johan Santana won the AL Cy Young Award on Thursday for the second time in three years, and the Minnesota Twins' ace was a unanimous choice once again.

Santana received all 28 first-place votes for a perfect total of 140 points in balloting by the Baseball Writers' Association of America. Chien-Ming Wang of the New York Yankees finished a distant second with 15 second-place votes and 51 points. Toronto's Roy Halladay was third with 48 points.

"This was not such a big surprise as in 2004," Santana said at a news conference at home in Venezuela.

The left-hander separated himself from all others during a dominant season, going 19-6 with a 2.77 ERA and 245 strikeouts to lead Minnesota to the AL Central title. With a baffling changeup and excellent control, he tied Wang for most wins in the majors and led the AL in ERA, strikeouts and innings pitched (233 2-3).

Forget the Triple Crown -- it was the pitching version of a Quadruple Crown.

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Santana also was a unanimous winner in 2004, when he was 20-6 with a 2.61 ERA and 265 strikeouts. He is the fifth pitcher to win the Cy Young Award unanimously at least twice, joining Roger Clemens, Pedro Martinez, Greg Maddux and Hall of Famer Sandy Koufax, who did it three times.
At 11/19/2006 8:56 PM , Mitch said...

OK, I'll make my case just one more time. Here goes:

Derek Jeter has finished in the top 5 for MVP quite a few times in his career, and there was always someone with amazing numbers who upstaged him.

Well, this year without David Ortiz, the Red Sox might have finished fourth. With him they finished third, 11 games out. That takes him out of the equation.

The Twins have 3 very good candidates. Joe Mauer, Justin Morneau, & Johan Santana. They all cancel each other out.

When you look at Derek Jeter's teammates, Gary Sheffield, Hideki Matsui, Robinson Cano, and Mariano Rivera they all missed significant time this season. Giambi hit .250 and aside from Chien-Ming Wang, the Yankees pitching was horrible. But, the Yankees still won the division by 10 games.

Someone was responsible for that. I contend that Jeter was the one constant that truly was irreplaceable to his team. He plays hard, smart & clean. He sets the tone. He plays each game as it is the 7th game of the World Series, and every at-bat as if it is two outs in the bottom of the ninth.

Take him out of the lineup, send him to another team in another city and he will still be Derek Jeter. But would the Yankees still be the Yankees?

Think about that, and then tell me who the most valuable player in the American League was this year.

We'll all find out Nov. 21st.
At 11/20/2006 1:26 PM , augie said...

Mitch, Jeter should be the front runner this year. I know MLB has gone away from giving pitchers the MVP but Santana was a virtual guarantee every 5th day to not just win but to truly dominate. The only other really dominant players were: Ortiz, Howard and Pujols.
At 11/22/2006 11:32 AM , augie said...

Sorry Jankee fans but the right guy got the MVP award. Without him the Twins were no where. Of course the fact that no one but me believes a pitcher can be an MVP he didn't lose votes to Santana
At 11/23/2006 11:00 AM , Mitch said...

Augie

I really can't complain about Morneau..he was worthy. However, the anti New York bias continues.

Jeter was voted "6th" by a Chicago writer...Randolph lost to Girardi for manager of the year, Reyes finished 6th in the MVP voting overall...it goes on and on....people hate newyorkers...period!

Makowsky Friends

Tuesday, September 26, 2006

OK Fans , You asked for it !!

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