2007 West Michigan Whitecaps Diary

[Mr.MelissaG915]

https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2/images/Whitecaps-Logo.gif

http://www.whitecaps-baseball.com/

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/clubs/ip_index.jsp?sid=milb&cid=t582

www.thesurge-whitecapsbaseball.blogspot.com

http://flickr.com/photos/therealshutterbabe/

http://www.weatherunderground.com/cgi-bin/findweather/getForecast?query=49321

http://www.wbbl.com/home.php

LET'S GO CAPS!

https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2/TRImages/WHitecaps%20-%20Fifth%20Third%20ballpark.jpg

[potthole]

You can add my newly created Flickr site to that list, if you'd like...

www.flickr.com/photos/potthole

[chuckles396]

I see that the Whitecaps are looking for host families. Are you going to partake in this Melissa and Mr. Melissa? :ponder:

[Biff Mayhem]

Wooooooooooweee! Whooopee! A zeppelin!

[chuckles396]

Wooooooooooweee! Whooopee! A zeppelin!

¿qué? :ponder:

[whitecapwendy]

My site for this year http://www.flickr.com/photos/whitecapwendy/

[bshingle]

My baby and I just bought our tickets to Opening Day! Section 115, row 7. I can't wait to watch the game with my baby!

[Biff Mayhem]

My baby and I just bought our tickets to Opening Day! Section 115, row 7. I can't wait to watch the game with my baby!

Congratulations to you and baby. I will hopefully see you there.

[potthole]

I see Becky fits in quite well already. She's already a pro at egging Biff on!

[estrepe1]

My baby and I just bought our tickets to Opening Day! Section 115, row 7. I can't wait to watch the game with my baby!

Congrats on the new child what is his/her name? Surprised you needed tickets to take a baby.

[MotownWebGuy]

Congrats on the new child what is his/her name?He/she is named potthole.

[estrepe1]

He/she is named potthole.

Oh.... oops :ponder:

[potthole]

Ok. I'm sure nobody will believe me, but I can promise this is the honest truth.

Bshingle is my girlfriend, as I'm sure most of you have figured out by now. A couple months back, we were talking about how we think it's pathetically funny how some couples are all "I love you baby, hunnie, sweetums!" on their Myspaces. As a joke one day, she posted on my Myspace, and said something about how she was excited to see her baby. Biff, being the ever keen observer, picked up on it, and has been calling me baby ever since. Becky (bshingle) finds it really funny, and called me her baby on here, knowing Biff would see it.

[bshingle]

Ok. I'm sure nobody will believe me, but I can promise this is the honest truth.

Bshingle is my girlfriend, as I'm sure most of you have figured out by now. A couple months back, we were talking about how we think it's pathetically funny how some couples are all "I love you baby, hunnie, sweetums!" on their Myspaces. As a joke one day, she posted on my Myspace, and said something about how she was excited to see her baby. Biff, being the ever keen observer, picked up on it, and has been calling me baby ever since. Becky (bshingle) finds it really funny, and called me her baby on here, knowing Biff would see it.

Yes, just to assure you all, I'm not really psycho-girlfriend.:rambo:

[estrepe1]

Yes, just to assure you all, I'm not really psycho-girlfriend.:rambo:


SURE......:cheeky:

[potthole]

Yes, just to assure you all, I'm not really psycho-girlfriend.:rambo:

Well, to be dating good old "Yoga picture" here, there has to be at least one screw loose. :cheeky: :wink:

[eta 1022]

Have the Whitecaps announced a roster yet? If so is Gorkys on it?

Thanks

[potthole]

Rosters aren't announced until very late in Spring Training, usually just a couple of days before camp breaks and the players head back north.

[Biff Mayhem]

Yes, just to assure you all, I'm not really psycho-girlfriend.:rambo:

But there was that information that you shared at one of the Tigers watch parties..........

[estrepe1]

Have the Whitecaps announced a roster yet? If so is Gorkys on it?

Thanks

No announcement. But I would expect that Gorkys will be on it.

[potthole]

Chuckles, I snagged a ticket for you today for the exhibition game. I'm glad you were able to get a seat by us for Opening Day!



"Hey, do you guys like the Whitecaps?" :wink:

[chuckles396]

Chuckles, I snagged a ticket for you today for the exhibition game. I'm glad you were able to get a seat by us for Opening Day!



"Hey, do you guys like the Whitecaps?" :wink:

Thanks a lot Potthole.

"Umm...Yeah we like the Whitecaps." :paranoid:

[whitecapwendy]

Are they assigning certain seats for the exhibition game or is it just a ticket to get in. I am not sure when I can make it out to get a ticket.

[potthole]

Are they assigning certain seats for the exhibition game or is it just a ticket to get in. I am not sure when I can make it out to get a ticket.


Once you get in, it's general admission, seats being first come, first serve. The tickets, however, do state that admission is only with a ticket. If you can't make it out to an MC Sports, Wendy, let me know. Becky lives pretty close to one, and I could stop and pick a ticket up for you.

[whitecapwendy]

Once you get in, it's general admission, seats being first come, first serve. The tickets, however, do state that admission is only with a ticket. If you can't make it out to an MC Sports, Wendy, let me know. Becky lives pretty close to one, and I could stop and pick a ticket up for you.
If it wouldn't be out of your way, that would be wonderful. I don't even know where an MC Sports is....I am guessing 28th street though. Thanks Potthole.

[snoogit]

If it wouldn't be out of your way, that would be wonderful. I don't even know where an MC Sports is....I am guessing 28th street though. Thanks Potthole.

There is also one just off of Plainfield Ave. by the I-96 on-ramp.

[potthole]

If it wouldn't be out of your way, that would be wonderful. I don't even know where an MC Sports is....I am guessing 28th street though. Thanks Potthole.

Yup, there's one on 28th, just near Woodland Mall. There's another one in Grandville, behind Rivertown Crossings. I'll pick a ticket up for you on Wednesday.

[whitecapwendy]

Yup, there's one on 28th, just near Woodland Mall. There's another one in Grandville, behind Rivertown Crossings. I'll pick a ticket up for you on Wednesday.
Thanks

[MelissaG915]

future Mrs. Mendez called to say there will be purple calla lillies at the wedding and Cotto and Raffie are rooming together this spring.

[potthole]

Looks like Cotto will have some time to teach Mendez a thing or two about the married life!

[Mr.MelissaG915]

Cotto teaching Mendez about being married. HA! I hope Mendez can grasp even part of it.

Let's keep this thread on topic. We can use the off-season thread for this idol chit chat.

We will not know a roster until spring training is complete. We may have a little idea by watching the spring training events, but once they arrive, they are on the list.

[Biff Mayhem]

There's something missing in this thread........

http://www.talonse.com/avatars/grandma_g.jpg

Ahh, that's better.

[chuckles396]

Well Biff I see that you're living up your last name. :classic:

[potthole]

We will not know a roster until spring training is complete. We may have a little idea by watching the spring training events, but once they arrive, they are on the list.

I'm curious to see who will be back from last year. The late season callups from Oneonta are pretty much agiven, but it'll be interesting to see who else. I'm guessing that Middleton and Mendez are two possibilities that we'll see again this year.

[Microline133]

Right now, the only lock I've got returning to West Michigan is Cory Middleton....outside of that, there are quite a few guys on the fence that will have to earn jobs in Lakeland -- rather than getting them as part of a natural progression. That list includes Kunkel, Cotto, Laster, Garcia (provided health), Kauten, and Peralta. Also feeling the crunch of guys coming up behind, these guys will need to earn spots this spring just to get a chance at West Michigan....Leon, O'Brien, Gil, Mahoney, and Sborz.

Outside of that, you'll be getting quite the crop of new guys...

[MelissaG915]

Cotto teaching Mendez about being married. HA! I hope Mendez can grasp even part of it.

Let's keep this thread on topic. We can use the off-season thread for this idol chit chat.


just who's the moderator here?

[grandma g]

Per Lew Chamberlin, West Michigan CEO/Managing Partner, "As far as I know, the ring ceremony is tentatively scheduled for March 26 before a Tigers game."

[Biff Mayhem]

http://www.talonse.com/avatars/grandma_g.jpg

[MelissaG915]

forgot to mention I submitted our annual host family application last week, with pictures of the dog to really seal the deal. Woodbridge is still looking for Pedro on a daily basis (daddy too).

[Yoda]

Hey Mel...

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/172/414011641_e90a55afb4.jpg

[MelissaG915]

bastard

[whitecapwendy]

Hey Mel...

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/172/414011641_e90a55afb4.jpg
Save me one of those. Maybe three (one for each game) :cool:

[Mr.MelissaG915]

Some nice pix on Em's flicker site of the guys. Updated today.

[baseball3]

Can you link her site please?

[Mr.MelissaG915]

See post #1 in this thread.

http://flickr.com/photos/therealshutterbabe/

[grandma g]

Releases today, Former Whitecaps Josh Kauten & Loren Fraser & some from Oneonta...sad...and more coming before camp breaks...this is the sad part of Spring Training....

[Biff Mayhem]

Releases today, Former Whitecaps Josh Kauten & Loren Fraser & some from Oneonta...sad...and more coming before camp breaks...this is the sad part of Spring Training....


Are they released or designated for assignment?

[zCor]

Releases today, Former Whitecaps Josh Kauten & Loren Fraser & some from Oneonta...sad...and more coming before camp breaks...this is the sad part of Spring Training....
Released, I'm sure is what she means. As of Tuesday there were 85 pitchers in minor league camp. That's without Seay, Heredia, Byrdak and Miner. More than 20 have to go...everyone of these kids have talent, dreams and hope....it is sad

[whitecapwendy]

Are they released or designated for assignment?
I will verify that they were released. Josh Kauten was over by the minor league fields yesterday while AA and AAA were playing. His comment "It happens." (you could tell it was a little tougher than that).

[Mr.MelissaG915]

I have a feeling a lot of guys we all know are going to get this news. There is a lot of GOOD talent in Florida.

[grandma g]

Released, I'm sure is what she means. As of Tuesday there were 85 pitchers in minor league camp. That's without Seay, Heredia, Byrdak and Miner. More than 20 have to go...everyone of these kids have talent, dreams and hope....it is sad
The sad part is all other teams are trimming their rosters now too...there is Independant Leagues....you are so right...it is sad.....

[grandma g]

Got a look today of what be the 2007 WM team....pitching today was Jonah Nickerson, Ramon Garcia. Eddie Clelland, Piccola....position players: Bourquin, Strieby, Scram, Ott, Timm, G. Hernandez, Sizemore (for couple innings, then he was sent to Tigers game) Ciriaco, Casanova, Cory Middleton,, Newton....Looking good........

[Big Toe]

Thanks for the update. Lots of college players taken last year hopefully means a pretty good team in West Michigan. Brookens should also know quite a bit about them.

I hope Sizemore's in Lakeland though. Garcia too, and maybe even Bourquin.

[grandma g]

7 days of camp left...cuts/trades/releases most of this week...then all the guessing will be over...just root for your teams..as soon at big team starts their cuts..the trickle effect begins.:depress: :depress: :depress:

[whitecapwendy]

After Carlos Guillen was hurt, Mark Haske was in the rest of the game. Be sure to check out my major league photos. http://www.flickr.com/photos/whitecapwendy/sets/72157600017457155/

I got a pic of Jonah Nickerson and Chris Carlson both of whom I believe to be heading to WM. those are in Minor league photos
http://www.flickr.com/photos/whitecapwendy/sets/72157600017325674/

[MelissaG915]

I need to keep posting to get to page 3, Yoda's strawberry shortcake is making me hungry every time I open this thread.

[Mr.MelissaG915]

Wendy, who was giving out the rings in your pix? Thanks for taking each one of them. The boys will love them!

[whitecapwendy]

Wendy, who was giving out the rings in your pix? Thanks for taking each one of them. The boys will love them!Lew Chamberlin. The boys aren't the only ones who love them :grin: thanks. I was glad that the Whitecaps wanted me down there to get pics for them. the Lakeland staff was very accomodating in allowing not only me, but all of the WM fans (host families) on the field. thanks Lakeland staff if any of you read this forum.

[grandma g]

Glen Ezell, Director ofPlayer Development (Navy top) & Dan Lunetta, Director of Tigers Minor League Opertions (red shirt) also in line..HueyTaxi also has shots....fun experience..

[Edman85]

Are they released or designated for assignment?

To clarify, minor leaguers really can't be designated for assignment, since that is a term that just means "Removed from the 40 man roster for the time being."

[estrepe1]

I was hoping Sizemore would be in Lakeland but at least he is 22 unlike Hollimon who was 24 after June.

[grandma g]

UPDATE: Just heard from the Kautens, Josh is going to play in the Independent league for a team in Nebraska...was in our mailbox when we got home....Good for Josh...

[redshark63]

UPDATE: Just heard from the Kautens, Josh is going to play in the Independent league for a team in Nebraska...was in our mailbox when we got home....Good for Josh...

These guys??

http://saltdogs.com.ismmedia.com/ISM2/NewsManager/641.jpeg

http://www.saltdogs.com/

[baseball3]

Man, things change quickly in this game, don't they?

[Mr.MelissaG915]

I'm glad to hear Josh is still staying with it.

I talked to 17 tonight. Boys are all a little excited and worried. Big meetings today behind closed doors as well as tomorrow. Boys know there are to many of them and tension is running high.

We shall see........

[hueytaxi]

Limited access to the minor fields without paying for parking through Friday. Communication network may break down a little this week. Will do my best...not tomorrow.

[grandma g]

Keep phone lines open from Thursday after 6 PM when Jay Pierson & Lew have meeting with WM...host families profiles will be passed out then plus other baseball business....

[MelissaG915]

a "wise" player called this evening to take up residence in the expanding Garland tribe.

http://www.wa.baseball.com.au/?page=18293

[Charles Liston]

I believe that "mate" is pronounced more like "myte".

[MelissaG915]

as in "g'day mate"?

you are correct sir!

[Biff Mayhem]

a "wise" player called this evening to take up residence in the expanding Garland tribe.

http://www.wa.baseball.com.au/?page=18293

Excellent news! Congrats!

[hueytaxi]

Arriving on the "B" train?

[estrepe1]

"AUSSIE AUSSIE AUSSIE!"

"HOY HOY HOY!"

[Mr.MelissaG915]

I can't wait to see if I can outdrink an aussie! This should be a fun year. I'm sure he will be a hit with the hoochie mammas. We may need to revise the thread.

[potthole]

I'm excited to meet your new guest, Dave. Tomorrow I'm going to give Jamie a call to see if I can get her blessings with my photo story project. If she does, I'll try to introduce myself after the GVSU game, and see if he's cool with the idea.

[Charles Liston]

as in "g'day mate"?

you are correct sir!

Yes, g'dye myte was what I had in mind there.

[Charles Liston]

I predict that by the end of the year everyone in GR is going to be talking like Greg Norman, pronouncing "aluminum" as "al-you-MIN-i-um" and drinking Foster's with all 3 meals every day.

[Blue Square Thing]

I can't wait to see if I can outdrink an aussie!
The chances are you have no chance, mate :-)

Next job will be to get him to teach you guys cricket. That I want to see photos of... :-)

Ian

[Biff Mayhem]

In 1988 I spent a month in Australia. I was surprised at how my tolerance to alcohol increased so that by the time we reached Hawaii I was able to pound down a lot of Long Island Ice Teas before they had any effect on me.

[Mr.MelissaG915]

The chances are you have no chance, mate :-)

Next job will be to get him to teach you guys cricket. That I want to see photos of... :-)

Ian

I would actually like to learn cricket. I've watched it on TV a few times and found it pretty interesting. As a kid, I loved watching Austrialian Rules Football. Nothing better than the guy with the white trenchcoat and the funny hat standing on the goal line pointing is fingers out at waste level. What a hoot!

[chuckles396]

Congratulations Melissa and Mr. Melissa. :cool: You'll have tons of fun. I thought you may need a Aussie-American dictionary (http://www.aussieinamerica.com/language/dictionary.htm).

[Blue Square Thing]

I would actually like to learn cricket. I've watched it on TV a few times and found it pretty interesting.
World cup's on just now. When does your man arrive? 99% of Aussies will imagine they're going to win it easily I'd think :-)

They probably have a point.

Ian

[Biff Mayhem]

I would actually like to learn cricket. I've watched it on TV a few times and found it pretty interesting. As a kid, I loved watching Austrialian Rules Football. Nothing better than the guy with the white trenchcoat and the funny hat standing on the goal line pointing is fingers out at waste level. What a hoot!

Don't do it. Some professional cricket player will probably just end up beaning you in the face.

[potthole]

Yeah, but you know he's already used to that, Biff. That fact will help him pick the sport up faster.

[Biff Mayhem]

I think I need to see that picture again.

[potthole]

I agree... as we speak, I am waiting for Photobucket's super slow servers to let me post a copy...

[chuckles396]

Are we referring to a certain picture from last September?

[potthole]

Here we go!

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a234/potthole123/davedrilled.jpg

I must say, Dave took a solid shot there, and he stood tall. I'm still surprised at the lack of blood.

[chuckles396]

So many memories.... :cry: :silly:

[Mr.MelissaG915]

I'm not a bleeder.

[Mr.MelissaG915]

WOW. Things change quickly.

No Aussie for us. Sounds like he got cut. I have a new name, but I am going to wait until I have him in the house before we introduce him.

Think corn. Lot's of corn. -

[chuckles396]

He got cut? wtf?

[potthole]

Corn, hmmm? My guess is he's got some sort of connection to Nebraska or Iowa, possibly...

That's a bummer about the player situation, hopefully it all works out!

[Mr.MelissaG915]

both

[CanTig]

Lets guess Pitcher Brett Jensen went to the University of Nebraska and was born in Iowa

[Big Toe]

I assume he's just heading to extended spring training and not totally gone from the organization, right?

Regardless, I'm sorry to hear it.

[Mr.MelissaG915]

Not sure of the details on Brandon. When I find out, I'll let you know.

Corn was to easy of a clue.........

[chuckles396]

It looks like Mr. Jensen will be the closer for WM.

[Biff Mayhem]

It looks like Mr. Jensen will be the closer for WM.

Oh great. Now Potthole can stalk two closers.

[Mr.MelissaG915]

Oh great. Now Potthole can stalk two closers.

+1:dead:

[Blue Square Thing]

So, do they play cricket in Nebraska then? :-)

Nice photo btw...

Ian

[whitecapwendy]

Mr Jensen

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/168/436917690_980612fd1c.jpg

[MelissaG915]

he's gonna eat a lot of food...

[chuckles396]

He's tall. :paranoid:

[Mr.MelissaG915]

New rule at our house. If you see him, DO NOT mention how tall he is. I'm sure he has heard every joke, comment, and statement possible about being a HUGE TREE, a giant, a "they grow them big in Iowa," how's the weather up there, do you have big feet too, taller than corn, blah blah blah!

I'm curious to see him in a twin bed. His feet are going to hang over just a bit. Looks like we need to move a bed around............

[Biff Mayhem]

Do you need a ride to the mall? My passenger seat scoots back far and errrrrrrrr......... - Potthole

[grandma g]

WOW. Things change quickly.

No Aussie for us. Sounds like he got cut. I have a new name, but I am going to wait until I have him in the house before we introduce him.

Think corn. Lot's of corn. -

Sorry to hear...this happens up to Sunday when Camp breaks.....happened to us 2 years ago.....LOTS of talent in Camp this year!

[chuckles396]

New rule at our house. If you see him, DO NOT mention how tall he is. I'm sure he has heard every joke, comment, and statement possible about being a HUGE TREE, a giant, a "they grow them big in Iowa," how's the weather up there, do you have big feet too, taller than corn, blah blah blah!

I'm sure he has heard all the jokes. "Corn-fed huh?" "You should have played basketball." Blah Blah Blah.

It's good to see that you're in mid-season host parent form. High marks son.:classic:

[estrepe1]

WOW. Things change quickly.

No Aussie for us. Sounds like he got cut. I have a new name, but I am going to wait until I have him in the house before we introduce him.

Think corn. Lot's of corn. -

I doubt he was cut entirely from the organization. Probably sent to EST.

Lets guess Pitcher Brett Jensen went to the University of Nebraska and was born in Iowa

Humboldt, Iowa to be exact... I bet you don't know the other Iowa native we have in the farm. He is one tall and lanky dude if that 6'7" 180 is correct.

Jeff Larish is from Iowa City

a "they grow them big in Iowa,"

Damn right they do.

[MelissaG915]

he looks sweet.. and apparently quite the Alice Cooper fan

[Biff Mayhem]

and apparently quite the Alice Cooper fan

I like him already.

[potthole]

Oh John. You are quite the comic. Now if Brett or any of his family happens to view this thread, they probably think I'm some psyco stalker.

[Biff Mayhem]

I liked it better when you called me a "butthead" on my voicemail.

[MelissaG915]

they probably think I'm some psyco stalker.


probably?

[Biff Mayhem]

Protesting so much doesn't really help your case. In fact, somewhere in the distance I can hear this music (http://www.ilovewavs.com/Holidays/Halloween/SoundEffects/Psycho%2002.wav) while reading your post.

[MelissaG915]

I wish it was Tuesday already.

[Big Toe]

They start up on Tuesday? For some reason I had it in my head that it was Thursday. Tuesday strikes me as much, much better.

[estrepe1]

Protesting so much doesn't really help your case. In fact, somewhere in the distance I can hear this music (http://www.ilovewavs.com/Holidays/Halloween/SoundEffects/Psycho%2002.wav) while reading your post.


I thought that would be a link to the Police song "Every Breath You Take."

[MelissaG915]

Tuesday is when our player moves in. Wednesday is the exhibition against GVSU. Thursday they go on the road for the first game of the season, against the Dragons. Next Monday they open at home.

Here's my player winning the HS state championship in '02:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xTTIrK01g1w

Super Regional playing for Nebraska in '05:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6WGcbTFKCuI

[potthole]

Wow! He looks like he towers over the other guys in that '05 video!

[grandma g]

Tuesday is when our player moves in. Wednesday is the exhibition against GVSU. Thursday they go on the road for the first game of the season, against the Dragons. Next Monday they open at home.

Here's my player winning the HS state championship in '02:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xTTIrK01g1w

Super Regional playing for Nebraska in '05:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6WGcbTFKCuI

Most of the players are moving in Wednesday so they can got out Tuesday PM & check out the town...so don't be disappointed if yours goes out too...think most of the plans are to drop off their 'stuff"...Tues PM... we always tell them to have fun b-4 the 140 game long season begins....

[Mr.MelissaG915]

Are you going to have a player that actually goes out GG?

[Mr.MelissaG915]

We got to meet the boys tonight at the host family mixer. What a great group of young men. Looks like we are going to have an excitable bunch this year who are ready to win. They went 10 and 2 for the spring. They like to win!

[grandma g]

Goes out, how about one (or two) that talks!??! And yes they are given time to talk...fun party tonight..... LOTS of good food & think they guys had fun too..hope tomorrow nights weather isn't too bad....Actually last year w/Dusty was so much fun.....some are just quiet nd some are Not...Louie reminds us of Ronnie Merrill...time will tell! PLAY BALL !!!!

[MelissaG915]

This is wierd for me, since last year's team was so special to me. I can't help but miss guys like Raf, Pedro, Orlando, Haske, etc. But I can't wait to get to know this group of guys, and Brett has already taken his place next to Cotto in my opinion.

[potthole]

This is wierd for me, since last year's team was so special to me. I can't help but miss guys like Raf, Pedro, Orlando, Haske, etc. But I can't wait to get to know this group of guys, and Brett has already taken his place next to Cotto in my opinion.

Melissa, you sounded so excited when you called this evening, it was great. I can't wait to meet these guys tomorrow!

[grandma g]

Dress warm, REAL WARM....if no game due to bad weather, players will still be available for (frozen) autographs...LOL!

[hueytaxi]

Regardless of weather, I know you will enjoy it. We will still be at 83 when the gates open tomorrow night and be down to about 72 when we meet the players. Almost long pants wx.

[potthole]

Ding-dangit, I really hate Michigan at times like this...

[Ig's Icers]

Would the autograph session be indoors tonight? As I'm watching the snow come down, it seems likely they will not be playing.

[grandma g]

Most likely on the covered concourse....

[whitecapwendy]

I think a good time was had by all as those who showed up tonight got to meet the new Whitecaps. Anyone interested in seeing the faces of the new Whitecaps feel free to visit tonight's album.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/whitecapwendy/sets/72157600048279953/

[Ig's Icers]

According to Coach Brookens, the starting rotation for the first five games is:

Cody
Gagnier
Below
Nickerson (home opener)
Castro

Cody seemed very excited to get things started tomorrow.

[potthole]

It was very cool to get out to see some of the old summer gang again. I spoke with a couple of the players for a little bit, but didn't go out of my way to talk right now. I recognized quite a few of the names, because of stuff from here, but I thought it would creep most of them out to come up and be like, "Hey ______, I have been reading about you online all winter long!"

[NATE]

According to Coach Brookens, the starting rotation for the first five games is:

Cody
Gagnier
Below
Nickerson (home opener)
Castro

Cody seemed very excited to get things started tomorrow.

Great news. I am going to the game Friday night so I will see Gagnier unless the home opener is frozen out. Dusting of snow here this morning and game time wind chill will be below 30.

My kids and bought me these tickets for my birthday. When I talked to the one daughter who bought the tickets, she told me how difficult it was to get the tickets. In fact, the ticket manager had to "pull some strings" to get the tickets.

Only later did I find out that Dayton has sold out nearly all or all of their games since they started a few years ago. Apparently, the park is beautiful. I will see if I can smuggle in my big bottle of Bailey's Irish Cream to keep me and the missus warm.

[MelissaG915]

Dayton is a lot of fun and their scoreboard is impressive for a minor league park. One of the best gift shops I've ever been in. Roofman is an especially quirky mascot too.

To keep extra warm, I recommend the turkey legs. That was a tasty meal best shared by two.

[NATE]

Dayton is a lot of fun and their scoreboard is impressive for a minor league park. One of the best gift shops I've ever been in. Roofman is an especially quirky mascot too.

To keep extra warm, I recommend the turkey legs. That was a tasty meal best shared by two.

Thanks for the ideas. Looking forward to seeing our 2007 Whitecaps.

[MelissaG915]

last night, it was great to see 17 and 21 hanging out together again, even if the names on the unis changed.

[whitecapwendy]

Great news. I am going to the game Friday night so I will see Gagnier unless the home opener is frozen out. Dusting of snow here this morning and game time wind chill will be below 30.

My kids and bought me these tickets for my birthday. When I talked to the one daughter who bought the tickets, she told me how difficult it was to get the tickets. In fact, the ticket manager had to "pull some strings" to get the tickets.

Only later did I find out that Dayton has sold out nearly all or all of their games since they started a few years ago. Apparently, the park is beautiful. I will see if I can smuggle in my big bottle of Bailey's Irish Cream to keep me and the missus warm.

So you can correctly pronounce his name while cheering for him (or correct the announcers :cheeky: ) HIs last name is pronounced "Gahn yay" Cheer the boys on for those of us 6 hours away :happy:

[whitecapwendy]

By the way, I found out last night from one of the higher ups at the ballpark, that Fifth Third ballpark is now wireless. Scott Lutz asked me last night why I didn't bring my laptop. I have doubts that I will ever take my laptop to the ballpark, but if I have to go to work early the next day and know I will have a lot of pics to work on---well you never know.

[NATE]

So you can correctly pronounce his name while cheering for him (or correct the announcers :cheeky: ) HIs last name is pronounced "Gahn yay" Cheer the boys on for those of us 6 hours away :happy:

Thanks, Wendy. I was wondering about the pronunciation and thought it was close to Eric Gagne.

It is still spitting snow hear in Central Ohio and it will be very cold tonight for the opener and not much warmer for the game Friday night. I won't be bringing my laptop so I cannot file any reports from the frozen tundra of Fifth Third Park but hope to post my comments by Monday morning after celebrating Easter with family and friends.

I will cheer on our Caps. Dayton should be tough. The Reds had a very good short-season team and they have three top prospects playing at Dayton.
Looking forward to see Gorkys, the other OF and Sizemore at bat and out in the field.

[MelissaG915]

I'm listening on WBBL, and have already heard my first company mention prior to the lineup. Can't wait to her my commercial!

[grandma g]

It was very cool to get out to see some of the old summer gang again. I spoke with a couple of the players for a little bit, but didn't go out of my way to talk right now. I recognized quite a few of the names, because of stuff from here, but I thought it would creep most of them out to come up and be like, "Hey ______, I have been reading about you online all winter long!"
GOOD CHOICE...the guys get upset when they hear/are told about the comments from here, true or not....they just need to be encouraged for a great long, full season and to be welcomed to West Michigan..GO CAPS...

[Mr.MelissaG915]

Congrats GrandmaG! Now I know where I can get a Faygo!

[grandma g]

Congrats GrandmaG! Now I know where I can get a Faygo!
Sorry but I donated BOTH to Ronald McDonald House....Sweet Lou does not drink pop or soda....water, Propel, iced tea, fitness drinks ( & that is not alcohol! :cheeky: ) He is in to healthy eating, had fixed his breakfast the last 2 mornings...now if I can just get him to fix mine! LOL! :grin: Super nice guy, and a talker & reminds us of our Ronnie Merrill-Caps 2001....Off to a fun season...Oh, and no car, can he borrow one of yours?!?!?!?

[potthole]

I'm listening on WBBL, and have already heard my first company mention prior to the lineup. Can't wait to her my commercial!

I can't wait to see our ad in the Wave!

[estrepe1]

There is only one Sweet Lou around here.....

[potthole]

Ok, I am getting sick and tired of this crap for weather. It needs to friggin' warm up here. I do NOT want to have Opening Day cancelled because of cold and snow. The first two game of my baseball viewing season were cancelled, and I will be pissed if I lose Opening Day too.

[grandma g]

There is only one Sweet Lou around here.....
He is not around here...so we call him..Louis..Louie...Lou...he doesn't even have a computer....

[estrepe1]

He is not around here...so we call him..Louis..Louie...Lou...he doesn't even have a computer....

It was supposed to be a joke about one of the greatest Tigers of all time.

[grandma g]

I know that.....but guys on the team call him Sweet Lou, they shared that w/us Wednesday night....

[potthole]

I'm excited to see The Wave tonight. One of the advertisements, which Mel helped to design actually, is using a photograph I took, and it'll be very cool to see it in print!

[chuckles396]

Did we ever figure out who the Best Buy guy was? You know the butt of all of certain peoples heckling?

[Mr.MelissaG915]

Noah something, but I am not 100% sure he made the Lansing roster.

[chuckles396]

I didn't find that name on the roster. Oh well. I'm sure there'll be some one new. :silly:

[MelissaG915]

I'm excited to see The Wave tonight. One of the advertisements, which Mel helped to design actually, is using a photograph I took, and it'll be very cool to see it in print!

helped design? :tired:

[Biff Mayhem]

Noah Trist

[chuckles396]

Noah Trist

That guy isn't on the Lansing roster that I saw.

[potthole]

helped design? :tired:

Ok, you came up with the slogan and the idea behind it, and assisted one of your team members with the actual design/layout of the finished product.

[grandma g]

FINALLY, OPENING DAY IS HERE !!!!!! Go Whitecaps.....

[srelio]

I'm new here,...is there a site or link that I can listen to the Whitecap games?
thank you in advance!
--srelio

[Biff Mayhem]

I'm new here,...is there a site or link that I can listen to the Whitecap games?
thank you in advance!
--srelio

Welcome aboard

Try this: http://wbbl.com/home.php

.

[srelio]

thanks, Biff,...I do appreciate it!
I'm a friend of Deik Scram's and would like to catch some of his games,...I'll pass this link on to his family, as well.
thanks again.
--srelio

Go Whitecaps!

[hueytaxi]

thanks, Biff,...I do appreciate it!
I'm a friend of Deik Scram's and would like to catch some of his games,...I'll pass this link on to his family, as well.
thanks again.
--srelio

Go Whitecaps!Welcome...you will soon be contacted (I predict) by Whitecapwendy with an offer you can't refuse.....and shouldn't . Also check http://www.flickr.com/photos/therealshutterbabe/, and http://www.flickr.com/photos/potthole/

[Charles Liston]

I'm new here,...is there a site or link that I can listen to the Whitecap games?
thank you in advance!
--srelio

Say, is that an authentic Houston Oilers logo?

[potthole]

Welcome, srelio!

You can also follow Diek and the Whitecaps on a blog, The Surge:
http://www.thesurge-whitecapsbaseball.blogspot.com/

There will be a writeup of (hopefully) every game, as well as photos from any of the games I happen to be shooting.

[Mr.MelissaG915]

Welcome!

[baseball3]

Good stuff, sorry tonight didn't work out for the 'Caps!

[Mr.MelissaG915]

Trying to hard. Once we get a win, it will gel.

[potthole]

I'm going to be nerding it up tonight at the ballgame. With an early schedule for school tomorrow morning, I'm going to bring along my laptop to the game tonight, so I can start uploading pictures when I'm done shooting, and thus allow myself a decent bedtime tonight.

[hueytaxi]

I'm going to be nerding it up tonight at the ballgame. With an early schedule for school tomorrow morning, I'm going to bring along my laptop to the game tonight, so I can start uploading pictures when I'm done shooting, and thus allow myself a decent bedtime tonight.My upload time is so slow, I don't even try anymore unless plugged into my AC/DC inverter. Did an event where I planned to offer CD's to the players and I think I was the last to leave it was so slow.

[TigerPride8301]

Hey, I'm new to the site but a HUGE tigers fan and like to follow their prospects. I live in Lansing and plan to be at every game when the Whitecaps are in town. Looking forward to tomorrow and Thursday!!! Hopefully the caps season will start on a roll.

[potthole]

My upload time is so slow, I don't even try anymore unless plugged into my AC/DC inverter. Did an event where I planned to offer CD's to the players and I think I was the last to leave it was so slow.

I was quite impressed with the wireless at Fifth Third tonight. I was able to get my pictures loaded up to Flicker just about as fast as I do when at home or at school.

There was almost a "Fever Pitch" moment with a foul ball coming right at me and the laptop as I was sitting in the stands. :dead:

[whitecapwendy]

Hey, I'm new to the site but a HUGE tigers fan and like to follow their prospects. I live in Lansing and plan to be at every game when the Whitecaps are in town. Looking forward to tomorrow and Thursday!!! Hopefully the caps season will start on a roll.

I plan to be at the game tomorrow and Thursday in Lansing as well, but the weather does not look at all promising. I feel bad for Lansing--they have yet to have a season home opener.

[grandma g]

I plan to be at the game tomorrow and Thursday in Lansing as well, but the weather does not look at all promising. I feel bad for Lansing--they have yet to have a season home opener.
Where were you tonight??? Everything OK???

[grandma g]

I'm new here,...is there a site or link that I can listen to the Whitecap games?
thank you in advance!
--srelio

Welcome to the Whitecaps part of Motownsports! The Caps web also have the live broadcases...go to the Multimedia /game broadcasts/listen live....
www.whitecaps-baseball.com...Finally a Win tonight!!:grin:

[whitecapwendy]

Where were you tonight??? Everything OK???

Yeah, Tuesday nights in April and most of May are Bible Study nights. Since I had missed two in a row for the Florida trip, I really needed to be at BS tonight. I will be at the game next Tuesday and May 8 because I promised to get pics of Cedar Rapids and Clinton and those 4 games of each are the only times we see them in WM. I hated missing tonight (especially hearing that first inning on the way to Bible Study), but sometimes you have to set priorities. At least I caught some of the most exciting part of the game. The guys sound like they pitched a gem tonight. I was glad to hear that Josh Rainwater came back so strong.

[Mr.MelissaG915]

No game today due to snow in Lansing.

[Mr.MelissaG915]

According to the Lansing website, we are playing tonight.

[potthole]

I sure do hope the field is clear for the games on Friday and Saturday!

[grandma g]

I sure do hope the field is clear for the games on Friday and Saturday!

Well, we could have a pre-game SHOVEL PARTY.....did you see the noon & 6 PM news?....LOTS of work going on at the OLD BALLPARK.........

[whitecapwendy]

According to the Lansing website, we are playing tonight.
We did. http://www.flickr.com/photos/whitecapwendy/sets/72157600060644818/

[potthole]

Well, we could have a pre-game SHOVEL PARTY.....did you see the noon & 6 PM news?....LOTS of work going on at the OLD BALLPARK.........

I didn't happen to catch the news, and couldn't find anything on their websites... was there a massive "let's dig the ballfield out of the snow" day yesterday?

[grandma g]

I didn't happen to catch the news, and couldn't find anything on their websites... was there a massive "let's dig the ballfield out of the snow" day yesterday?

No but you could have Volunteered....LOL! At least offer to shovel off your seats....Let's hope this sun warms things up .....

[chuckles396]

Cameron Maybin bobbleheads are already up on ebay (http://search.ebay.com/search/search.dll?sofocus=bs&sbrftog=1&from=R10&satitle=cameron+maybin+bobblehead&sacat=-1%26catref%3DC6&sargn=-1%26saslc%3D2&sadis=200&fpos=ZIP%2FPostal&ftrt=1&ftrv=1&saprclo=&saprchi=&fsop=1%26fsoo%3D1&coaction=compare&copagenum=1&coentrypage=search&fgtp=). The prices don't seem to be as high as the Zumaya one so far.

[Biff Mayhem]

Cameron Maybin bobbleheads are already up on ebay (http://search.ebay.com/search/search.dll?sofocus=bs&sbrftog=1&from=R10&satitle=cameron+maybin+bobblehead&sacat=-1%26catref%3DC6&sargn=-1%26saslc%3D2&sadis=200&fpos=ZIP%2FPostal&ftrt=1&ftrv=1&saprclo=&saprchi=&fsop=1%26fsoo%3D1&coaction=compare&copagenum=1&coentrypage=search&fgtp=). The prices don't seem to be as high as the Zumaya one so far.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Cameron-Maybin-Detroit-Tigers-Whitecaps-bobblehead_W0QQitemZ230116511626QQihZ013QQcategory Z73424QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

This is the same dipwad who was selling the Zumaya bobblehead last year before they gave them away. I wonder if vonderdykemaroosterhouse will get involved.

[baseball3]

dipwad or not, someone's going to make some good money on these things............just watch!

[potthole]

http://cgi.ebay.com/Cameron-Maybin-Detroit-Tigers-Whitecaps-bobblehead_W0QQitemZ230116511626QQihZ013QQcategory Z73424QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

This is the same dipwad who was selling the Zumaya bobblehead last year before they gave them away. I wonder if vonderdykemaroosterhouse will get involved.


Hey Biff, has his lawyer ever contacted you yet? :wink:

[MotownWebGuy]

http://cgi.ebay.com/Cameron-Maybin-Detroit-Tigers-Whitecaps-bobblehead_W0QQitemZ230116511626QQihZ013QQcategory Z73424QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

This is the same dipwad who was selling the Zumaya bobblehead last year before they gave them away. I wonder if vonderdykemaroosterhouse will get involved.

SERIOUS BIDDERS ONLY PLEASE!!

[potthole]

I noticed that same line in there too, MWG. I got a nice chuckle out of it.

[Mr.MelissaG915]

Let's bombard his questions. I asked him if I can pick it up locally without the shipping charge. We need to ask him how he can sell something he doesn't already own.

[Biff Mayhem]

Let's bombard his questions. I asked him if I can pick it up locally without the shipping charge. We need to ask him how he can sell something he doesn't already own.

I asked if I would get sued if I bid but didn't pay because I was still waiting for the other lawsuit.

[Mr.MelissaG915]

I see the bidding is up to 11 cents!

[Biff Mayhem]

I see the bidding is up to 11 cents!

He has three listed. Maybe my wife needs to get in on the bidding.

[potthole]

Well, with the game being cancelled tonight, it looks like I am out of the running for a Maybin bobblehead. They're giving them away at next Friday's game, which is a 3:00 start, and there's no way I can make it to the game.

Oh well, there are more important things in life than bobbleheads.

[potthole]

Question with tomorrow being a doubleheader... do I need to purchase tickets for each game, or can I just buy the one ticket, and stay for both?

[Mr.MelissaG915]

One ticket for both.

[potthole]

Sweet!

[whitecapwendy]

Well, with the game being cancelled tonight, it looks like I am out of the running for a Maybin bobblehead. They're giving them away at next Friday's game, which is a 3:00 start, and there's no way I can make it to the game.

Oh well, there are more important things in life than bobbleheads.

I wonder if Mr. E-Bay is going to make it for the 3:00 start? Of course, if he is a season ticket holder, he has a guaranteed bobblehead doll.

[whitecapwendy]

No game tonight, but I had fun snapping pictures of batting practice. If anyone cares to view them they are here http://www.flickr.com/photos/whitecapwendy/sets/72157600074182377/
I didn't have names. No numbers on practice shirts, and I still have a long ways to go in getting the faces with the names. You will have to at least check out the "baseball 101" series.

[Mr.MelissaG915]

In case your wondering. Streiby and Jensen have switched numbers. Jensen is now 33 and Streiby is now 44.

That is all.

[Biff Mayhem]

Well, with the game being cancelled tonight, it looks like I am out of the running for a Maybin bobblehead. They're giving them away at next Friday's game, which is a 3:00 start, and there's no way I can make it to the game.

Oh well, there are more important things in life than bobbleheads.

I'll make it just to get the bobblehead.

[potthole]

These replica championship rings are pretty cool, much better than I was expecting. I was thinking they'd be cheap little plastic things, so I was very surprised when I found out they were metal. Sure, the Terryberry logo right in the center is sort of cheesey, but overall I think it's quite spiffy.

Thanks to bshingle for going to the game tonight and getting me one of these!

[grandma g]

TerryBerry did this 2 years ago, the nice rings.....those were expensive...not the "normal" give aways....nice memories of the Championship seasons....Thanks, TerryBerry...

[Mr.MelissaG915]

COTTO BUMPED TO ERIE!

[grandma g]

That is yesterdays news...guess Adam Haley quit....good for Pedro...now you going to pick up a car in Erie ?!? How exciting for Cotto....

[chuckles396]

COTTO BUMPED TO ERIE!

Cool. Good for him. :cool:

[Biff Mayhem]

COTTO BUMPED TO ERIE!

http://www.talonse.com/avatars/grandma_g.jpg

[MelissaG915]

I knew what you were posting before I even opened the thread.

Where ya been Biff?

[potthole]

Well, I do believe I see a roadtrip to Erie sometime this summer!

[Mr.MelissaG915]

That is yesterdays news...guess Adam Haley quit....good for Pedro...now you going to pick up a car in Erie ?!? How exciting for Cotto....

Yes, but I thought I would let the folks who only watch this thread know too. Who knows, maybe Dusty will make it someday.

[MelissaG915]

Dusty deserves to be in Erie more than Roa.

[Biff Mayhem]

Yes, but I thought I would let the folks who only watch this thread know too. Who knows, maybe Dusty will make it someday.


http://www.freshchocodiles.com/images/zingers.jpg

[Biff Mayhem]

I knew what you were posting before I even opened the thread.

Where ya been Biff?

How's Monday for you?

[MelissaG915]

that could work

[Biff Mayhem]

that could work

I'll call you. And yes I realize this could have been accomplished via PM.

[MelissaG915]

what are you, the thread police?

oh yeah, I am too...

[PuNk42AE]

What is the new "Deep Fried Pepsi" that they have new this year?

[MelissaG915]

best guess is it is cupcake batter made with Pepsi cola syrup as the flavoring taht is deep fried and served with frosting dip. I have a cookbook for making all kinds of crap out of Coca Cola products, including Fresca Frosting.

I think Thrilla said he gave it a try and it was bleh. I may have to do the "sour milk" treatment and give it a try to see if it really is gross.

[kpking3032]

WOW am I late to this thread!!! I feel like a bad AAT parent now after just now reading about your new housemate Melissa and Mr. Melissa!!! I hope having Jack Hannahan and Alex Sanchez as my previous AAT's doesn't curse anything, and from Brett's stat-line so far, I think the third time is the charm for my AAT...

The pics on flickr of Brett are great too, they really show the varied arm angles he uses, and from a lot of what I read and can kind of see in pictures, he seems incredibly intense on the bump....I'm curious though, what are the radar guns on Brett reading so far???? Hopefully he'll have us saying "Kevin Whelan who??" by August!!

[potthole]

I seem to remember the guns showing him low to mid 90s, but I don't really pay a ton of attention to them.


Holy crap, I've got such a huge sunburn from today's game.

[kpking3032]

Holy crap, I've got such a huge sunburn from today's game.


and a week ago -- a foot of snow

[potthole]

Heh, that is so true. Two and a half weeks ago I have a Tigers game cancelled because of subzero temps, and today I roast in the sunshine. Ah, Michigan...

[MelissaG915]

I wasn't paying attention to the gun when Brett pitched the other night, I was simply amazed at the fluidity of his style. He aw-shucked me when he came home and I said as much, given my opinion as a figure skating judge. It's like seeing Maybin run for the first time, and you are amazed at display of power, grace and flow.

I'm not saying this because he's my for real AAW. His sidewinder delivery is a mix of arc and slingshot, in not so scientific terms. It's cool to see.

[potthole]

The first time I saw him pitch my jaw probably dropped. I thought it was so cool to see how smooth his delivery was.

[potthole]

I don't swear a ton, but....

DAMMIT!!!

Something just knocked my Joel Zumaya bobblehead off my desk, breaking off his ball hand, and snapping one leg.

[potthole]

Just wanted to check in real quick and let everybody know that Becky, her mom and I have made it to South Carolina all safe and sound. We caught a Mudhens game on Friday night and had a great time. See you guys in a week!

[whitecapwendy]

Those of you that have attended these games against Cedar Rapids, I ran across an interesting video posted on a LA Angels site. It seems one of their top prospects is running for president (catcher #35 Hank Conger)
http://youtube.com/watch?v=JTTLkDfg_HI
Now if I can watch him catch tomorrow and keep a straight face

[Mr.MelissaG915]

This was over on the Erie board, but for those not reading that section I wanted to bring this over here. Tommy is doing a great job for us this year, but you can tell Matt had his own style. Enjoy!


Walbeck helps gives 'Wolves mental edge
"Baseball is 90 percent mental -- the other half is physical." -- Yogi Berra

BY RON LEONARDI
ron.leonardi@timesnews.com [more details]


Published: May 13. 2007 6:00AM

Surfing the Internet recently, Matt Walbeck stumbled across some work from Claude M. Bristol, author of a 1948 best-selling book, "The Magic of Believing."

One quote in particular caught his attention: "As individuals think and believe, so they are."

The late Mr. Bristol's maxim quickly found its way onto a makeshift poster that was attached to a wall in the team's clubhouse at Jerry Uht Park.

"That saying is, down through the ages, one of those truths," Walbeck said. "If you think you're going to be something, you generally are. I like to instill positive thoughts."

In fact, the 37-year-old California native, in his first season as SeaWolves manager, tends to be so positive in his daily outlook, he probably could help inspire some of his favorite modern-day motivational authors.


Walbeck is a voracious reader of -- and believer in -- self-help material, motivational quotes and power-of-positive-thinking books. Stroll through the SeaWolves' clubhouse and you'll see wit, wisdom and inspiration hanging in most open spaces.

There's one by former UCLA basketball coach John Wooden that Walbeck, a self-described stickler for details, particularly likes: "Failing to prepare is preparing to fail."

Another, by the late Green Bay Packers coach Vince Lombardi: "Individual commitment to a group effort -- that is what makes a team work."

Then there's one hanging near Walbeck's office door -- "Be Here Now" -- that is succinct, yet meaningful to the manager.

The author is Jon Nickles, whom Walbeck quickly points out is his wife's uncle, a poet, and a person with whom Walbeck has engaged in "some real good talks."


Peer into Walbeck's office and you'll notice a deep stack of books near his desk. A sampling of the titles: "If Winning Were Easy, Everyone Would Do It;" "Wisdom of the Ages;" "The Power of Attitude;" "The Magic of Thinking Big;" "Power Vs. Force;" "The Book of Sudoku;" "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People;" and "Zen Golf."

"I'm always reading something," Walbeck says. "I read a lot of books on golf, because golf is such a mental game."

As is baseball. Walbeck, who earned his Double-A Erie managerial promotion in November after guiding low Single-A West Michigan to Midwest League championships in 2004 and 2006, is very much aware of the psychological effects he can have on his players.

Psychology has always played an important role in his managerial approach. He believes his job goes beyond teaching his athletes the fundamentals of the game, and admits he likes getting into his players' heads and planting positive thoughts that, over time, will help players succeed.

"Once you get into professional baseball, all these players are capable of throwing, running. hitting and doing all the really good things, but generally what happens is their mind kind of gets in the way," Walbeck said. "They either have negative thoughts or things get in their way. I want to make sure they're in a healthy environment and provide them with an environment where they basically learn themselves.

"I've found over time that psychology comes into play a lot," he said. "I don't want to sit there and tell these guys all the time about my beliefs and that sort of thing. I try and lead by example and occasionally give them little bits of encouragement about attitude and posture, and how the way you present yourself sometimes means a lot more than you can imagine."

Tools of the trade
Walbeck's world of managing includes some fun ways to keep his players loose and confident.

Every time one of his players homers, they flash their own personal home-run handshake' to Walbeck, who handles third-base coaching duties.

Some players give him a high-five, some a low fist bump, others a double high or low fist bump, or simply a nod.

"I've written them all down so I can remember them," Walbeck said.

"He is unique by the way he does things," SeaWolves center fielder Clete Thomas said. "He's positive about everything. He doesn't get down when we lose, or pick out a lot of negative things. He tells you things to help you do better. Everybody is responding well to it."

Other days, during batting practice, you might see some SeaWolves practicing home-run trots.


"I've kind of grown on this stuff," said SeaWolves second baseman Michael Hollimon, who played for Walbeck last season at West Michigan. "I've never played for a coach that positive with all his thinking. He's always positive and you can definitely see it. He always tries to keep everything with the atmosphere fun. We practice home run trots; what minor league ballclub does that? He likes to keep it light and fun, but at the same time, when it's time to get down to business, he really bears down."

Some current SeaWolves who played for Walbeck at West Michigan remember his Hawaiian Shirt Sundays, where players were encouraged to show up at the ballpark wearing the trademark shirts.

"We wanted to keep it fun and interesting and I thought it built chemistry and camaraderie," Walbeck said.

Another Walbeck speciality at West Michigan was First-name Friday. Everybody addressed each other by first names instead of their usual nicknames.

Some of the fun things Walbeck incorporates arrive on the spur of the moment.


During the final week of spring training in March at the Tigertown complex in Lakeland, Fla., the SeaWolves had just finished a morning infield drills session.

Spotting many of his players congregating near home plate, Walbeck instructed them to head to the mound and go through a postgame victory high-five handshake.

"The reason I do some of this stuff, like the home-run handshakes, is because I want them to visualize giving me that handshake," Walbeck said. "Sometimes if you can visualize what's going to happen, it's special for them, then they see themselves doing it before it actually happens, and then it happens. It's just a different kind of way I think outside the box."

Those little things have been a big hit with his players.

"We try and jump in with the position players and do some of their fun things," SeaWolves pitcher Dallas Trahern said. "Wally thinks there's a way to do everything properly. We're going to beat the other team with the small things, we're going to beat them at the national anthem, we're going to beat them at the home-run handshakes and the small things off the field as well."


How do you beat an opponent at the national anthem?

"He has a philosophy that we're going to be in line, our feet are going to be together, our hands at our sides, our gloves down and our caps across the chest and that we're just into it," Trahern said. "We don't want to be looking at the ground or talking. Some other teams may not be in line, and that's something we take pride in because he's instilled that in his players since he was in West Michigan. That's one of his things, and I like it. He teaches us to respect the game and respect the people around us, and his positive attitude reflects that."

True believer
Walbeck was a catcher in the major leagues with five teams over an 11-year career from 1993-2000. He said he learned something from each manager he played for, including Tom Kelly, Mike Scioscia, Buddy Bell, Jim Lefevre, Terry Collins and Alan Trammell.

"There's a lot of people, not just managers, that I paid attention to and got a lot of positives out of to try and find out what makes people do their best," Walbeck said.

When he was 19, Walbeck suffered a serious knee injury, and said a lot of baseball people thought he would not come back as a catcher.

"I looked for the silver lining in that and taught myself to switch-hit, so when I came back, I was hoping the switch-hitting would overshadow the injury," Walbeck said. "I always look for the silver lining. If something happens that looks to be a setback, I always try to get something out of it and get a little bit better out of it."

An only child, Walbeck said he was taught what should be important in baseball from his parents, Aileen and Ron, while growing up in Sacramento, where he played Little League baseball for his father.


"I always felt my father instilled in me how to be a good teammate and that building a team was more important than concentrating on winning," Walbeck said. "My mother was a schoolteacher and her style of teaching was a lot like my style of managing - she was very organized and very communicative with her students. I try to be that to my players."

Walbeck said his interest in the mental side of baseball began long before he took one psychology course at Sacramento City College years ago, a course that dealt mostly with the function of the human brain.

Walbeck's affinity for doing unique things to motivate and inspire others is something SeaWolves pitching coach A.J. Sager has come to expect.

"He is very original and comes up with a lot of ideas that keeps guys laughing, bouncing around and loose, and hopefully that carries over to the game and they can relax and play," Sager said. "That's hard work; that's not real easy to do over a six-month period."

Sager served as West Michigan's pitching coach the last five seasons and developed a friendship with Walbeck when the two were teammates on the Tigers in 1997.


"He was always a little bit out there with his Northern California mentality, but I say that in a good way because he's just always been that guy," Sager said. "He was positive, and that's why guys liked throwing to him. He'd come out and get you going as a pitcher, and it's carried over to what he does as a manager."

Walbeck tries to talk to each of his players every day, even if the connection is just to ask them how they are doing.

"Over the course of the season, hopefully I can get the most out of them," Walbeck said. "A lot of it is just how I perceive the player to be. If I have good, positive thoughts about the player, generally that player performs well. If I have negative thoughts about the player, sometimes the player actually performs that way. I do try and get in their heads a little bit and let them know I'm here for them and to help them."

RON LEONARDI can be reached at 870-1680 or by e-mail

http://goerie.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti...0398/-1/SPORTS (http://goerie.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070513/BASEBALL01/705130398/-1/SPORTS)

[potthole]

Believe it or not, I'll actually be shooting photos at games again, although it probably won't be until Friday in Lansing.

[redshark63]

I may be heading over to CP tomorrow for the morning tilt (xtra vaca day). Any of you WM morons going to be there?

[whitecapwendy]

I may be heading over to CP tomorrow for the morning tilt (xtra vaca day). Any of you WM morons going to be there?

I will be there, camera in hand, in my usual spot. Stop down and say hi.

[redshark63]

I will be there, camera in hand, in my usual spot. Stop down and say hi.

If I can get through all those lovely screaming children. :dead:

[whitecapwendy]

If I can get through all those lovely screaming children. :dead:

Apparently they held you hostage

[grandma g]

BREAKING NEWS...
Posted by Danny Knobler June 10, 2007 12:36PM
Categories: Breaking News
DETROIT --
In other news today, Jim Leyland said there's a good chance that Kenny Rogers' second (and possibly final) rehab start could be Friday night at West Michigan. Triple-A Toledo and Double-A Erie are both on the road that night, so the Tigers will likely have Rogers pitch for the Whitecaps, who host Dayton.

[grandma g]

GET YOUR TICKETS EARLY !!! HOW COOL IS THIS ?!?!?

[potthole]

I don't know for sure, because my network here at work is preventing the video from playing, but I think this link should have video from some, if not all, of the fight last night.

http://video.woodtv.com/?video_id=7196

[baseball3]

Looks like #30 for our guys should probably not try to be a professional fighter/wrestler..............Hope he's a very good baseball player!!

[potthole]

Uh, that's the hitting coach, Benny Distefano. His playing days are long over.

[potthole]

So, Thursday night is Irish night at the ballpark. Think they'll go uber authentic and not serve any potato products? :cheeky:

*Bah-dum-CHING!*

[MelissaG915]

I hope Matt O'Brein is pitching.

[potthole]

Would they 'rename' him as Matt O'O'Brian for that game? I still laugh when I think about Pedro O'Cotto from last season.

[Biff Mayhem]

Will you be wearing your green shirt?

[potthole]

HA! I hadn't even thought of that!

Actually, I'm not going to be at the game. I'll be out that evening doing a little "bling" shopping.

[potthole]

On the next Sunday home game, which will be coming up on the 26th, I will be fufilling a life's dream... throwing out the first pitch at a baseball game!

Bshingle arranged for me to throw out a first pitch before the 8/26 Whtiecaps game as part of an early celebration of my birthday. She was trying to keep it a secret longer, but just couldn't resist telling me.

[Biff Mayhem]

On the next Sunday home game, which will be coming up on the 26th, I will be fufilling a life's dream... throwing out the first pitch at a baseball game!

Bshingle arranged for me to throw out a first pitch before the 8/26 Whtiecaps game as part of an early celebration of my birthday. She was trying to keep it a secret longer, but just couldn't resist telling me.

We may have to go to this one just so I can film it in hopes that you short arm it.

Are you going to be wearing your sliding shorts?

[potthole]

No sliding shorts, but I AM considering the green shirt!

[Biff Mayhem]

We're going. We have to. Just remember: When you're out on that mound about to throw a pitch it's not just 7,000 people watching you. It's one Biff with a video camera and the ability to post the footage on this website.

[potthole]

Actually, that won't really get to me at all. I used to go on live television every Sunday night to talk sports and make a general fool of myself, so I'm sort of immune to mass-embarrassment situations.

Looks like I'll be getting to bust out the old 2-seamer from back in my high school days!

[Biff Mayhem]

Actually, that won't really get to me at all. I used to go on live television every Sunday night to talk sports and make a general fool of myself, so I'm sort of immune to mass-embarrassment situations.

Looks like I'll be getting to bust out the old 2-seamer from back in my high school days!

It's not the en-mass that you have to worry about. It's knowing that I'm there with a video camera in hand that you should be worried about. I may have to pull a Matt Devins with you if necessary!