Tag: mlb

Friday, July 19, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly. (I’m still away. This ain’t easy)

Fun fact: I do my best proofreading after I post.

Pro tip: Adopt a retired drug dog to find fun friends at parties.

Trivia #1: Which of the following Red Sox players were NOT an All-star game MVP? – Mo Vaughn, Roger Clemens, Carl Yastrzemski, J.D. Drew, Jarred Duran, Mike Greenwell, Pedro Martinez
Trivia #2: On July 19, 1920, Babe Ruth hit a homerun, breaking his own single season record. He went on to hit 54 that season. What was the single season record after the 1919 season? – 29, 35, 39, 41, 46, 49
Trivia #3: In the famous “Duel in the Sun” at Turnberry in 1977 between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus, which player had the 36-hole lead? – Tom Watson, Jack Nicklaus, Roger Maltbie, Hale Irwin, Peter Oosterhuis, Dane Hubbard
Trivia #4: Who is Travis Bazzana?

On this date: July 19, 1545, King Henry’s VIII flagship Mary Rose sinks at Portsmouth; 73 die.
July 19, 1692, 5 more people are hanged for witchcraft (19 in all) in Salem, Massachusetts
July 19, 1940, Adolf Hitler orders Great Britain to surrender – they decline

Ads have been promoting new feminine deodorants, even for down there. Who do they have taste testing this stuff? Who??

They said it: “Don’t just teach your children to read. Teach them to question what they read. Teach them to question everything. The value of an education is not the learning of many facts but the training of the mind to think.” – Comedian George Carlin

Incognito, you’re doing it wrong. A man was arrested on Monday just blocks from Fiserv Forum where the Republican National Convention is being held in Milwaukee. Homeland Security Investigators and Capitol Police were conducting surveillance near the RNC perimeter when they noticed a suspicious man approaching. He was wearing a ski mask and carrying a tactical bag. Inside the bag, police found the gun and a full magazine.

This week’s sign of the apocalypse: Major US airlines ordered ground stops this morning citing communications issues, while other carriers, media companies, banks and telecoms firms around the world also reported system outages were disrupting their operations. Microsoft has said it has resolved the cloud-services outage that was blamed for disrupting flights and banks. 

Stop complaining: You got up this morning and you’re reading this, correct?

Good news: Scientists at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota say they have identified a new type of memory loss. Limbic-predominant amnestic neurodegenerative syndrome, or LANS, affects the brain’s limbic system, which helps to regulate emotions and behavior. The syndrome is very similar to Alzheimer’s disease, but doesn’t progress as quickly and has a better prognosis. “This paper is putting our clinical expertise into a precise framework that others can use to care for their patients,” says a Mayo Clinic press release.

Article I’ll skip: UFC’s Dana White sounds alarm at what’s at stake in upcoming presidential election

R.I.P. George Robert “Bob” Newhart (94) – The actor was known for his hit sitcom, “The Bob Newhart Show,” in the ’70s. Newhart went on to have two additional shows named after him, “Newhart” and “Bob.” His groundbreaking work in stand-up and television – and his beloved deadpan delivery – have left an indelible mark on the art form of comedy and will be treasured by comedy fans for generations to come.

Trivia #1 answer: Which of the following Red Sox players were NOT an All-star game MVP? – Mo Vaughn, Roger Clemens, Carl Yastrzemski, J.D. Drew, Jarred Duran, Mike Greenwell, Pedro Martinez – Mo Vaughn and Mike Greenwell
Trivia #2 answer: On July 19, 1920, Babe Ruth hit a homerun, breaking his own single season record. He went on to hit 54 the season. What was the single season record after the 1919 season? – 29, 35, 39, 41, 46, 49 – 29 homeruns
Trivia #3 answer: In the famous “Duel in the Sun” at Turnberry in 1977 between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus, which player had the 36-hole lead? – Tom Watson, Jack Nicklaus, Roger Maltbie, Hale Irwin, Peter Oosterhuis – Roger Maltbie
Trivia #4 answer: Who is Travis Bazzana? – Travis is the first Australian-born No. 1 pick in the MLB draft. Interesting, he was drafted by the Cleveland Indians, who were making their first-ever No. 1 selection.

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Happy National Play Day! (Have at it!)

Here’s a little song I wrote called… Where In the Hell Did My Weekend Go

“Block off the streets and houses
Because there’s something in the air
We’ve got to get together sooner or later
Because the revolution’s here”

– Thunderclap Newman (Something In The Air)

Bonus!

Friday, July 12, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly. (I’m away. This ain’t easy)

If you feel useless today, remember, some people work as lifeguards at Olympic swimming events.

Trivia #1: Approximately how many earths could fit inside the sun? – 150,000, 300,000, 770,000, 1,000,000, 1,300,000, 1,500,000, 2,000,000
Trivia #2: What third two basemen are tied for the most All-star game starts? How many?

On this date: July 12, 1441, King Alfonzo V of Aragon becomes king of Naples
July 12, 1804, Former United States Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton dies after being shot in a pistol duel the previous day by Vice President Aaron Burr
July 12, 1940, Frederick McKinley Jones receives a patent for an air conditioning unit for trucks, helping to change long-haul carriage of food and blood
July 12, 1979, “Disco Demolition Night” at Comiskey Park: Fans go wild destroying disco records and cause the White Sox to forfeit second game of a doubleheader to the Detroit Tigers

Go away: Karen Read

There is an ice cream stand just down the street from me with an ATM. Gimme the extra scoop!

They said it: “You are the trailer park, I am the tornado.” – Beth Dunn from Yellowstone

This week’s sign of the apocalypse: 33 people were shot across the nation in July 4th shootings

Stop complaining: Ya, Beryl again…

Cincinnati rookie Rece Hinds became the first player in MLB to have at least 5 extra base hits in his first two games in the big leagues. I’m not a big fan of “StatCast” stuff but… he is also the first player of the StatCast era to hit each of his first two career homeruns at least 445 feet.

Speaking of StatCast, the relatively new baseball term “knock” irritates the shit out of me. It’s a hit, OK!!!

A walk in the park, you’re doing it wrong. A 27-year-old man was found in Riverfront State Park in Lawrence, MA with a gunshot wound to the head. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Good news: Well, for me. Our Boston Red Sox are now 10 games over .500 after sweeping the Oakland A’s, in this season of astonishment.

Speaking of the Celtics, you have to love what they are doing in keeping their championship team together. Really.

Article I’ll skip: Man accused of decapitating elderly parents, dog at mobile home park

Don’t look now but the S&P index topped 5,600 this past week. Yes, your portfolios are up.

I know, I know, but hear me out. In his first 390 career at-bats, Mookie Betts – 10 HR, 43 RBI, 14 SB. In his first 390 at-bats, Red Sox rookie Ceddanne Rafaela – 13 HR, 55 RBI, 14SB

Useless information supposed to fire my imagination: On July 12, 1441, King Alfonzo V of Aragon became king of Naples.

Trivia #1 answer: Approximately how many earths could fit inside the sun? – 150,000, 300,000, 770,000, 1,000,000, 1,300,000, 1,500,000, 2,000,000 – 1.3 million (useless info also)
Trivia #2 answer: What third two basemen are tied for the most All-star game starts? How many? – You probably got one. Brooks Robinson and Wade Boggs each had 11.

You can’t replace time.

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Happy National French Fry Day!

Unless you can rock a mustache, you can’t. Take a good look at yourself.

“I see a woman in the night
With a baby in her hand
Under an old street light
Near a garbage can
Now she puts the kid away,
And she’s gone to get a hit
She hates her life,
And what she’s done with it
There’s one more kid
That will never go to school
Never get to fall in love,
Never get to be cool.”

– Neil Young (Rockin’ In The Free World))

Friday, July 5, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly.

A King and a Queen walk into a bar and both order drinks. The bartender says, “I can’t serve you, you’re not 21.”

Trivia #1: For you Bostonians, why is the ‘Hatch Shell’ called the ‘Hatch Shell’?
Trivia #2: Who was the first MLB player to have is uniform number retired by his team? Bonus: What was his number?
Trivia #3: What was Lou Gehrig’s full name?
Trivia #4: The Red Sox’ Jared Duran just became the first American League player in history to record all of the following before the All-star break: 100 hits, 10 triples, 10 homeruns and 20 stolen bases. Who is the only National League player to accomplish the same feat? – Stan Musial, Jose Reyes, Ron Acuna Jr., Chipper Jones, Ricky Henderson, Tim Raines
Trivia #5: What do Bernie Madoff and Bobby Bonilla have in common?

On this date: July 5, 1865, US Secret Service begins operating under the Treasury Department
July 5, 1891, hail kills 16 horses in Rapid City, South Dakota
July 5, 1950, US forces enter combat in the Korean War for the first time, in the battle of Osan
July 5, 1994, Amazon.com founded in Bellevue, Washington by Jeff Bezos

I don’t know about you, but to me the Fourth of July just wasn’t the same without Joey Chestnut. Since he was barred from the Coney Island competition, Chestnut took his talents to Fort Bliss, Texas, for his Fourth of July Feast and competed against Army soldiers. In just five minutes, Chestnut ate 57 hot dogs and buns, outdoing four competitors combined, who tallied 49 hot dogs and buns in total.

This week’s sign of the apocalypse: More bad news is on the horizon for Florida homeowners. On top of insurers pulling out of the state altogether, Florida’s state-created Citizen’s Property Insurance just voted to raise rate by 14% across the state.

Stop complaining: Unless you’re in Beryl’s path

Good news: We live in the greatest country in the world. I hope you celebrated that yesterday.

My wife bought me toe nail clippers. Romantic, I know. The package read “for men.” Huh? Riddle me this. Do women not clip their toenails or… are their toenails such that they need differently designed clippers? Stuff like this keeps me up at night.

Article I’ll skip: ‘Yellowstone’ star Lainey Wilson says being an American “means everything to me.” (I mean, good for her, but I ain’t reading)

Every problem is an opportunity in disguise.

Trivia #1 answer: Why is the Hatch Shell called the Hatch Shell? – The Charles River Esplanade went through a vast expansion beginning in 1928, which widened and lengthened the park land. It was during this expansion that the first lagoon was built, as well as the Music Oval, where a temporary concert shell was placed. The summer of 1929 was the first year Arthur Fiedler and the Boston Pops performed on the Esplanade. In 1941, the construction of the new music shell took place with a $300,000 trust, donated by benefactor Maria Hatch, to build a memorial for her late brother, Edward.
Trivia #2 answer: Who was the first MLB player to have his uniform number retired by his team? What was his number? – Lou Gehrig (#4)
Trivia #3 answer: What was Lou Gehrig’s full name? – Heinrich Ludwig Gehrig Jr. (If you got this correct, I’ll buy you a drink)
Trivia #4 answer: The Red Sox’ Jared Duran just became the first American League player in history to record all of the following before the All-star break: 100 hits, 10 triples, 10 homeruns and 20 stolen bases. Who is the only National League player to accomplish the same feat? – Stan Musial, Jose Reyes, Ron Acuna Jr., Chipper Jones, Ricky Henderson, Tim Raines – Jose Reyes in 2008.
Trivia #5: What do Bernie Madoff and Bobby Bonilla have in common? – In 2000, the Mets agreed to buy out the remaining $5.9 million on Bobby Bonilla’s contract. However, instead of paying Bonilla the $5.9 million at the time, the Mets agreed to make annual payments of nearly $1.2 million for 25 years starting July 1, 2011, including a negotiated 8% interest. At the time, Mets ownership was invested in a Bernie Madoff account that promised double-digit returns, and the Mets were poised to make a significant profit if the Madoff account delivered — but that did not work out. Happy Bobby Bonilla Day (July 1).

Don’t let the old man in.

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Happy National Workaholics Day! (You know who you are)

Oh beautiful, for spacious skies, for amber waves of grain.

“Boy you sure took me for one big ride
And even now I sit and wonder why
That’s when I think of you
I stop myself from crying
I just can’t waste my time
I must keep trying
I’ve got to stop believing in all your lies
‘Cause there’s too much to do before I die”

– Joe Cocker (Fellin’ Alright)

July 4th (Ok, 5th) Bonus

Friday, June 28, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly.

Remember: When you bury a body, cover it with endangered plants so it’s illegal to dig it up. Follow me for more gardening tips.

Trivia #1: Who is Zaccharie Risacher?
Trivia #2: Who is the shortest MLB player to hit 3 homeruns in a game? Hint: He only hit 41 homeruns in his career.

On this date: June 28, 1846 – The saxophone is patented by Antoine-Joseph “Adolfe” Sax
June 28, 1919 – The Treaty of Versailles is signed in France, ending World War I and establishing the League of Nations
June 28, 1957 – Reds’ fans stuff ballot box, electing 8 Reds as All-Star starters. Commissioner Ford Frick overrules and names Stan Musial, Willie Mays and Hank Aaron to the team as starters.

The Stanley Cup Final Game 7 outdrew any NBA Finals or World Series game in the past five years.

Local congratulations to the Haverhill High School Athletic Department and its student-athletes. 1 Team State Championship, 1 Regional Championship, 9 Individual State Champions, 8 MVC (Conference) Team Championships, 14 Individual MVC Champions, 4 MVC Coaches of the Year, 6 MVC Players of the Year, 105 All-Conference Selections. Go Hillies!

This week’s sign of the apocalypse: An artificial intelligence generated version of Al Michaels’ voice will be used for Olympic recaps. The AI-powered voice of Michaels will narrate Olympic video highlights for the company’s streaming platform.

Good news: As a country, through lots of hard work from clinicians, patients and organizations like the American Heart Association, mortality from heart disease has been reduced by more than 50% in recent years.

Bad news: Heart disease has been the world’s No. 1 killer for over a century and a report this month from the American Heart Association (AHA) predicts that at least six in 10 U.S. adults could experience cardiovascular disease within the next 30 years. The last decade has seen a surge of cardiovascular risk factors, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity, each of which raises the risks of developing heart disease and stroke. As a result, total cardiovascular disease is predicted to rise from 11.3% to 15.0% between 2020 and 2050.

Last week, the music industry trade publication ‘Hits’ reported that Sony had emerged triumphant in a battle with other recording giants to claim ownership of Queen’s catalog for $1.2B.

Back to Willie Mays, mentioned last week. Here’s some numbers:
100 Homeruns / 100 Stolen Bases: 48 players in MLB history
150 HR / 150 SB: 15
200 HR / 200 SB: 8
250 HR / 250 SB: 2
300 HR / 300 SB: Only Willie Mays
400 HR / 300 SB: Only Willie Mays
500 HR / 300 SB: Only Willie Mays
600 HR / 300 SB: Only Willie Mays

Article I’ll skip: Reddit user seeks advice after sister insists on bringing her ‘demon’ dog

Back in my day the only time we started panic buying was when the bartender yelled “last call!”

Trivia #1 answer: Who is Zaccharie Risacher? – Risacher, from France, was the No. 1 overall pick by the Atlanta Hawks in this past week’s NBA draft
Trivia #2: Who is the shortest MLB player to hit 3 homeruns in a game? Hint: He only hit 41 homeruns in his career. – Freddie Patek, at 5’5”, hit three homeruns at Fenway Park on June 20, 1980.

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Happy National Paul Bunyan Day!

Not all who wander are lost.

“Buddy you’re an old man poor man
Pleadin’ with your eyes gonna make you some peace some day
You got mud on your face
Big disgrace
Somebody better put you back into your place”

– Queen (We Will Rock You)

Friday, May 10, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly.

I did it! Yet another personal record for consecutive days alive!

You come from dust. You will return to dust. That’s why I don’t dust. It could be someone I know.

Trivia #1: Who was the only U.S. president to be an only child?
Trivia #2: UCLA has the most men’s NCAA championships in what two sports?
Trivia #3: Hank Aaron hit 755 career homeruns. How many inside-the-park homeruns did he have? – 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8
Trivia #4: What is the nickname of Sacred Heart University?
Trivia #5: Which of the following is NOT an xfinity channel? – Destination Europe, FanDuel TV, Jewish Broadcasting Service, Freeform, ZeeTV, SundanceTV

On this date: May 10, 1877, U.S. President Rutherford B. Hayes has the first White House telephone installed.
May 10, 1924, J. Edgar Hoover appointed first head of the FBI
May 10, 1970, Bobby Orr scores famous OT-winning goal as the Bruins beat St. Louis, 4-3 for the 4-0 series sweep.

Wow! Listening to sports talk radio, friends and family, the local optimism regarding the Celtics and Bruins has taken a swift 180. What have you done for me lately?

Go away: Stormy Daniels (Unless you’re naked, then by all means, stay)

So, Iowa’s Caitlyn Clark’s GPA is 3.64. Not too shabby.

Resisting arrest, you’re doing it wrong: A Florida man was arrested earlier this week after biting a chunk out of a deputy’s head at an EDM music festival on Sunday.

The sunscreen I use says that it is vegan. I’m not going to eat it! What the hell does that mean?

Useless information supposed to fire my imagination: This is the first time in history that all four Boston and Dallas teams reached the elite eight (Bruins/Celtics, Stars/Mavericks)

This week’s sign of the apocalypse: I recently sent a group email and one of the recipient’s was a guy who works for a local bank. He had an automatic reply set and the response email read: Jones, Joe (he/him/his) – name was changed to protect the innocent

So, of the protesters who are actually students, are we going to pay off their loans too?

Get this, 22-year-old Elly De La Cruz of the Cincinnati Reds is on pace for an unfathomable 42 homers and 94 stolen bases this season. He finished April with 8 homeruns and 18 stolen bases, becoming the first player on record to hit both those marks in any calendar month.

Fans of sriracha sauce may find themselves scrambling — again — to get a hold of the spicy condiment. Huy Fong Foods, a leading sriracha maker in California, is warning that a shortage is on the horizon, and it’s placing the blame on jalapeño chili peppers. The company told wholesale buyers that it has to halt production because the peppers aren’t red enough.

They said it: “For all you punks, idiots and jackasses on other networks, who want to be media and who want all the players to like y’all, do your damn job. The Lakers suck and the Suns suck because of the players.” – Charles Barkley

Article I’ll skip: Family’s claim of alien sighting “can’t be denied” after noticing previously missed detail

Good news: In great news for the climate, the rate of deforestation in the Amazon rainforest halved in 2023. This is the lowest rate of deforestation in 5 years for the world’s largest rainforest.

You remove your hat for the national anthem, good for you. Now do me a favor and remove it when you enter a funeral home. Really?

Trivia #1 answer: Who was the only U.S. president to be an only child? – No U.S. president has been an only child
Trivia #2 answer: UCLA has the most men’s NCAA championships in what two sports? – Basketball (11) and volleyball (21)
Trivia #3 answer: Hank Aaron hit 755 career homeruns. How many inside-the-park homeruns did he have? – 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8 – He had one inside-the-park homerun on May 10, 1967
Trivia #4 answer: What is the nickname of Sacred Heart University? – The Pioneers
Trivia #5 answer: Which of the following is NOT an xfinity channel? – Destination Europe, FanDuel TV, Jewish Broadcasting Service, Freeform, ZeeTV, SundanceTV – Destination Europe is not a channel (although Destination America is)

I have a black eye in karate.

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Happy National Lipid Day! (really)

“I’ve seen your picture
Your name in lights above it
This is your big debut
It’s like a dream come true
So you won’t you smile for the camera
I know you’re gonna love it, Peg.”

– Steely Dan (Peg)

Friday, April 19, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly. (Why do I bother…)

Wife: “I was talking to you and you yawned six times. Am I boring you?”
Husband: “Those weren’t yawns. Those were six unsuccessful attempts to speak.”

Trivia #1: Al Leiter made his major league debut in 1987 with the New York Yankees and ended his career with them also. What other team did Al throw a no-hitter for in 1993?
Trivia #2: The Atlanta Braves Greg Maddux’s personal record for fewest pitches thrown in a complete game victory was: 77, 79, 82, 83, 87, 89, 93, 95, 100

On this date: April 19, 607, Comet 1P/607 H1 (Halley) approaches within 0.0898 AUs of Earth
April 19, 1963, Johnny Cash releases single “Ring of Fire”
April 19, 1965, at a cost of $20,000, the outer Astrodome ceiling is painted because of sun’s glare, this causes the grass to die.
April 19, 1995, Timothy McVeigh sets a truck bomb at Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, Oklahoma City, killing 168, including 19 children and injuring 500.

Bacon makes everything better.

Go away: Anything/Anyone to do with Robert Kraft and Bill Belichick. That ship has sailed as far as I’m concerned.

What a gem of a game the Red Sox’ Tanner Houck threw Wednesday night beating the Cleveland Indians 3-0. The game lasted one hour and 49 minutes, the shortest game since 2010, as Houck threw only 94 pitches while walking none.

Speaking of golf, as a public service, watch for those guys who take on their hat and run their fingers (using their right hand!) threw their hair before shaking hands with you after the round. Gross! John Rahm, and many others, are notorious for such act. I suggest quickly shifting to the fist-pump.

Stop complaining: Late last Sunday through Thursday, one year’s worth of rain fell in Dubai where at least 20 people were killed in flood waters.

April 2024 is Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month.

Of the many things we learned watching the Masters last weekend, LIV golfer Cameron Smith didn’t get any better looking during the past year.

Tweet of the week: Israel has intercepted 99% of Irans’ missiles and drones. Antonio Brown: “Iran is starting quarterback Kenny Pickett.”

Useless information supposed to fire my imagination: On April 19, 607, Comet 1P/607 H1 (Halley) approaches within 0.0898 AUs of Earth

Useless information supposed to fire my imagination, part deux: NFL draft updates. Enough already! The draft begins next Thursday, let’s just get it done!

Wanna get away? How about whoever owned the car that had its alarm blaring during the Masters last weekend?

The Celtics begin their playoff run on Sunday versus… The Bruins take on the Toronto Maple Leafs (of the Original 6) in the first round beginning tomorrow night.

More useless information, supposed to spark my imagination: The Toronto Maple Leafs are part of the original 6.

This week’s sign of the apocalypse: Utah’s Nebo school district is pushing back on allegations from students about “furries” – people who identify as animals – in their middle school, with some rumors of animal-like “licking” and “biting.”

They said it: “I’ve had a speech problem coming on for the last year. There is nothing wrong with me physically and they can’t figure it out.” – Former Boston Bruins broadcaster Jack Edwards

Trivia #1 hint: It was the franchise’s first no-hitter.

On Wednesday, Jack Leiter made his major league debut with the Texas Rangers. He made Al & Mark Leiter the first MLB brothers to each have a son who made it to the show. Mark’s son Mark Jr. pitches for the Cubbies. (For the record, Jack got lit up for 3 2/3 innings, 8 hits, 7 earned runs, 3 walks and 3 strikeouts.)

Good news: NFL draft rumors will end in one week

Article I’ll skip: Blake Shelton says he would return to “The Voice” on one condition. (Spare me, Blake)

R.I.P. Dorrel Norman Elvert “Whitey” Herzog (92) – MLB manager for 18 seasons, compiling a record of 1,281-1,125 while leading the St. Louis Cardinals to pennant-winning seasons in 1982, 1985 & 1987, and a World Series title in 1982. He also managed the Kansas City Royals to division titles in 1976-1978, had his number (24) retired by the Cardinals and was inducted into the Hall of Fame.
R.I.P. Forrest Richard “Dickey” Betts (80) – Betts, whose country-inflected songwriting and blazing, lyrical guitar work opposite Duane Allman in the Allman Brothers Band helped define the Southern rock genre of the ‘60s and ‘70s. (One of my favorite guitarists/bands, just sayin’)

Congratulations to Jack Edwards who has announced his retirement after a 19-year career as the Boston Bruins broadcaster. “My dream job,” said Edwards. (Are any of you working your “dream job???”)

Speaking of the Celtics, stayed tuned as play-by-play announcer Mike Gorman calls his final playoff series call with the Celtics. A “class act” like no other!

Trivia #1 answer: Al Leiter made his major league debut in 1987 with the New York Yankees and ended his career with them also. What other team did Al throw a no-hitter for in 1993? – The Florida Marlins
Trivia #2: The Atlanta Braves Greg Maddux’s personal record for fewest pitches thrown in a complete game victory was: 79, 82, 83, 87, 89, 93, 95, 100 – 77

Wife to therapist: “I told him if anything happened to me, he should date other women.”
Husband: “So I did.”
Wife: “I meant if I died, Peter. I was stuck in traffic!”

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Happy National Clean Out Your Medicine Cabinet Day!

“You’re my blue sky, you’re my sunny day
Lord, you know it makes me high when you turn your love my way,
Turn your love my way, yeah”

– The Allman Brothers Band (Blue Sky)

Bonus tune!

Friday, April 12, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly. (Not!)

I love you all. Except you. You know who you are. Douchebag.

Trivia #1: Who is the oldest first-time winner of the Masters golf tournament, and who is the oldest second-time winner, pick two: Jack Nicklaus, Mark O’Meara, Tiger Woods, Ben Crenshaw, Gary Player, Dane Hubbard
Trivia #2: How many players teed off in Masters for the first time yesterday? – 5, 10, 13, 15, 18, 20
Trivia #3: How many different lefties have won the Masters?
Trivia #4: What two players are tied for having made the most consecutive cuts at the Masters (23)? – Fred Couples, Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Gary Player, Tom Watson, Fuzzy Zoeller
Trivia #5: Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Watson have been the starters at the Masters since 2022, the year Tom Watson joined them. Other than Lee Elder stepping in in 2021, Arnold Palmer was a starter from 2007-2016. Who was the starter from 1984-2002?

I have to give credit where credit is due. Outstanding job by the Red Sox organization on Tuesday honoring the 2004 championship team, Larry Lucchino, and Tim and Stacy Wakefield. If you haven’t seen it yet, I highly recommend it.

By the way, did you realize the Red Sox honored #49, Tim Wakefield on April 9 (4/9)? Whoa…

On this date: April 12, 1811, the first U.S. colonists on the Pacific coast arrive at Cape Disappointment, Washington.
April 12, 1945, US President Franklin D. Roosevelt dies in office and Vice President Harry Truman is sworn in as the 33rd US President.
April 12, 1960, MLB Chicago White Sox owner Bill Veeck debuts “Exploding Scoreboard” at Chicago’s Comiskey Park
April 12, 1961, Douglas MacArthur declines offer to become baseball commissioner

Well, another solar eclipse, another event where I heard of zero people being blinded by the sun. (Pretty cool event, tough)

Go away: OJ… finally

This just in, the PGA’s Scottie Scheffler is pretty good.

April 2024 is Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month.

Old School: A brazen Los Angeles cash heist on Easter weekend in which thieves cracked a safe and got away with as much as $30 million is believed to be one of the largest such heists in U.S. history.

Useless information supposed to fire my imagination: Cape Disappointment, Washington, sees about 2,552 hours of fog each year, the equivalent of 106 days, making it one of the foggiest places in the U.S.

Useless information supposed to fire my imagination, part deux: Bronny James, LeBron James’ son, will enter the NBA draft. Really, do people give a shit about Bronny?

The Celtics were spanked by the second place Bucks last night (2 games remain). The Bruins have a 1-point lead over the second place Panthers in the Atlantic Division with 3 games remaining.

Speaking of the Red Sox, here we go. After the aforementioned west coast swing, the Sox came back to friendly Fenway only to lose the first three games vs. Baltimore. We’ve been concerned about the Red Sox for a reason.

Last night, Sox’ pitcher Isaiah Campbell came on to pitch the 10th inning with the game tied at 4-4. Campbell proceeded to let up 4 hits and 5 runs in the 9-4 loss. U-G-L-Y.

Speaking of hockey, it does seem that we see many of the same schools in the NCAA Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Championship and this year did not disappoint as BC, Michigan, Denver and BU entered the “Frozen Four” last night. Tomorrow BC will take on BU in the final.

This week’s sign of the apocalypse: California GOP leaders are calling for more accountability after an audit released earlier this week indicated that the state spent around $24 billion to tackle the homeless crisis over the past five years but did not consistently track whether the huge outlay of public money did anything to actually improve the problem. The state auditor’s report found that despite roughly $24 billion spent on homeless and housing programs during the 2018-2023 fiscal years, the problem didn’t improve in many cities.

Good news: Would it be wrong to mention OJ here?

Article I’ll skip: Famed trial witness Kato Kaelin wonders if OJ Simpson ‘made peace with God’ on deathbed

The Red Sox Jaren “Duran” Duran finally listened to everyone and stopped dying his hair.

R.I.P. Paul Nissi (84) – Member of the Haverhill High School 1955 Massachusetts State football team, went on to play at Notre Dame (my uncle)
R.I.P. Donald “Donny” White (85) – Quarterback of the same 1955 Haverhill School state championship football team, went on to play quarterback at Notre Dame.
R.I.P. Larry Lucchino (78) – Died of congestive heart failure, was a three-time cancer survivor. The Boston Red Sox won three World Series championships under Lucchino’s time as the team’s president/CEO from 2002 through 2015. Lucchino is responsible for the construction or revamping of five stadiums: Camden Yards in downtown Baltimore when he was president of the Orioles; Petco Park in downtown San Diego when he was president and CEO of the Padres; Fenway Park; JetBlue Park at the Red Sox’s spring training facility in Fort Myers, Florida; and Polar Park, home of the Worcester Red Sox in the city’s Canal District.

They said it: “The eclipse could be a further indication of climate change.” – Sonny Hostin of “The View”

Trivia #1 answer: Who is the oldest first-time winner of the Masters golf tournament, and who is the oldest second-time winner, pick two: Jack Nicklaus, Mark O’Meara, Tiger Woods, Ben Crenshaw, Gary Player – Mark O’Meara is the oldest first-time winner (41 years, 89 days) and Ben Crenshaw is the oldest second-time winner (43 years, 88 days)
Trivia #2 answer: How many players teed off in Masters for the first time yesterday? – 5, 10, 13, 15, 18, 20 – There were 20
Trivia #3 answer: How many different lefties have won the Masters? – 3 (Mike Weir, Phil Mickelson, Bubba Watson)
Trivia #4 answer: What two players are tied for having made the most consecutive cuts at the Masters (23)? – Fred Couples, Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Gary Player, Tom Watson, Fuzzy Zoeller – Fred Couples (1983-2007) and Gary Player (1959-1982)
Trivia #5: Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Watson have been the starters at the Masters since 2022, the year Tom Watson joined the other two. Other than Lee Elder stepping in in 2021, Arnold Palmer was a starter from 2007-2016. Who was the starter from 1984-2002? – Sam Snead

Son: “Dad, I don’t like motorcycles as much as you do. Am I adopted?”
Father: “Not yet, we can’t find anyone that wants you.”

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Happy National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day!

“Nobody left to run with anymore
Nobody left to do the crazy things we used to do before
Nobody left to run with anymore”

– The Allman Brothers Band (No One to Run With)

Friday, April 5, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly.

Son: “Dad, why is my sister’s name Rose?
Dad: “Because your mother loves roses.”
Son: “Oh, thanks, Dad.”
Dad: “No problem, Opening Day.”

Trivia #1: Who is Ingrid Lindblad?
Trivia #2: What major league pitcher holds the record for the most Opening Day starts, how many?
Trivia #3: What major league pitcher holds the record for the most consecutive Opening Day starts, how many? (Yes, different answer than the previous question)
Trivia #4: David Pastrnak became just the 5th Boston Bruins player to have consecutive 100-point seasons. Which of the following is not one of the other four? – Barry Pederson, Bobby Orr, Phil Esposito, Rick Middleton, Adam Oates

On this date: April 5, 1923, Firestone Tire and Rubber Company starts producing inflatable tires
April 5, 2063, Earth’s 1st contact with the extraterrestrial Vulcan species in the Star Trek universe

Go away: Angel Reese. You lost, Caitlyn Clark is better than you, go home.

April 2024 is Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month.

As a public service: Millennials are about twice as likely to develop colon cancer and four times as likely to develop rectal cancer compared to people born prior to 1950. From the mid-1980s through 2013, colon cancer rates found in those ages 20-29 rose up to 2.4 percent per year and has led the major professional medical societies including the American Cancer Society, the American College of Gastroenterology and the US Preventive Services Task Force to advise lowering screening from age 50 to age 45 for patients with no risk factors. As a friend preaches; “Get your butt checked!”

OK, I get it. Seven games against Seattle and Oakland but, if the Sox didn’t play well everyone would be all over them so let’s give some credit. Starting pitching has a 1.89 ERA and 0.79 WHIP, 46 K’s and 3 BB. Too early to give new pitching coach Andrew Bailey too much credit but so far, so not-bad.

Speaking of Oakland, the average attendance for the three-game series with the Red Sox was 6,055. How they survive is beyond me.

Useless information supposed to fire my imagination: April 5, 2063, Earth’s 1st contact with the extraterrestrial Vulcan species in the Star Trek universe

This beer tastes like I’m not going to work tomorrow.

The Celtics have a 13-game lead over the second place Bucks in the Eastern Conference (6 games remain). The Bruins have a 4 point lead over the second place Panthers in the Atlantic Division (5 games remain).

This week’s sign of the apocalypse: It’s April 5th and I’m looking at 6 inches of snow outside of my window while some of you are looking at more than two feet. Mingya!

Good news: This snow will melt in a couple/few days, right??

Article I’ll skip: Valerie Bertinelli shares the ‘three-week rule’ she has with new boyfriend

R.I.P. Lou Conter (102) – The last known survivor of the attack of the USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor. Shortly after the horrors in Hawaii, Conter was selected for flight training and became a Navy aviator. He flew some 200 combat missions in the Pacific throughout WWII. After WWII, Conter went on to serve in the Korean War. Later, he became the Navy’s first SERE officer — an acronym for survival, evasion, resistance and escape. For years, he helped establish the program, training Navy pilots and crew how to survive if they were shot down in the jungle and captured as prisoners of war. By the end of his 27-year career in the Navy, in 1967, he’d risen to the ranks of lieutenant commander. 

They said it: “Guys were coming out of the fire, and we were just grabbing them and laying them down, they were real bad. You would pick them up by the bodies, and the skin would come off in your hands.” – Lou Conter

DYK: In a 2021 Veterans Affairs release, it was stated that then, 80 years after the attack on Pearl Harbor, up to 9 quarts of oil continued to spill from the USS Arizona into the harbor. Wowza!

Trivia #1 answer: Who is Ingrid Lindblad? – She is the number one ranked women’s amateur golfer.
Trivia #2 answer: What major league pitcher holds the record for the most Opening Day starts, how many? – Tom Seaver (16)
Trivia #3 answer: What major league pitcher holds the record for the most consecutive Opening Day starts, how many? (Yes, different answer than the previous question) – Jack Morris (14)
Trivia #4 answer: David Pastrnak became just the 5th Boston Bruins to have consecutive 100-point seasons. Which of the following is not one of the other four? – Barry Pederson, Bobby Orr, Phil Esposito, Rick Middleton, Adam Oates – Rick Middleton (He had two but not consecutive)

Bartending: Helping people feel good about bad choices.

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Happy National Deep Dish Pizza Day! And… Happy Opening Day!!! (Fenway, next Tuesday) And again… Happy Birthday to Meatsy!

“The Rooters gave the other team a dreadful fright
Bobston’s tenth man could not be wrong
Up from “Third Base” to Huntington
They’d sing another victory song

Two! Three! Four!”

– Dropkick Murphys (Tessie)

Bonus!

Friday, February 16, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly.

I may not be that good looking, or athletic, or funny, or talented, or smart… I forgot where I was going with this, but I do know that I love bacon.

Trivia #1: Which of the following did NOT sing at Stevie Ray Vaughn’s funeral in 1990? – Bonnie Raitt, ZZ Top, Eric Clapton, Stevie Wonder, Jackson Browne, Prince
Trivia #2: Who is Gunnarwolfe Fountaine?
Trivia #3: The Red Sox’ Carl Yastrzemski played 23 seasons with the Sox primarily in left field. He also played stints at centerfield, rightfield, first base, DH and 33 games at what other position?

On this date: February 16, 1838, Kentucky passes a law permitting women to attend school under conditions.
February 16, 1861, Abraham Lincoln stops his train in Westfield on his way to Washington to thank 11-year-old Grace Bedell in person for her advice to grow a beard to gain more votes.

Go away: The NFL. Now that the Super Bowl is over, can we just move on full-time to college hoops, hockey and spring training, please?

I have to mention, but can’t say much, about the KC parade shootings. It happens far too often. You have to feel for everyone directly, and indirectly, involved. What a shame.

The f*n Catalina Wine Mixer.

Useless information supposed to fire my imagination: Alexander Ovechkin surpassed Wayne Gretzky with his 57th career empty net goal. He has now shot the puck passed no one more times than any player in NHL history.

Speaking of hockey, congratulations to the Northeastern men’s hockey team for winning this year’s Beanpot tournament 4-3 over BU, in OT!

Speaking of champions, after the championship game, Northeastern players immediately were seen wearing Beanpot Champion baseball hats. Why don’t baseball players, after winning a championship, put on hockey helmets? NBA players with championship football helmets on the court raising the trophy???

Stop complaining: There are two consecutive storms forecast for the California coast this weekend.

This week’s sign of the apocalypse:  USA Boxing rang in 2024 by codifying a new rule for female boxing; participants need not be female. According to them, “female” is a term merely equating a few surgeries and pills.  

Being nice people, doh! – With state shelters hitting capacity and migrant families sleeping overnight inside Boston Logan International Airport, Colin and Jessica Stokes of Brookline, Massachusetts, decided to step up and try to make a difference. The Massachusetts couple who volunteered to take in illegal migrants was surprised when a family of four showed up at the doorstep less than an hour after signing up.

Congratulations to Iowa’s Caitlyn Clark who became the highest scoring women’s basketball player in D1 history last night with a 49-point effort. Back in my day, she would have been called a “gun” or a “hung.” That’s just the way it was.

Article I’ll skip: Harry, Meghan launch aggressive PR tour after ‘chilly reception’ from Harry.

A 30-second Super Bowl commercial costs $7M. Nobody’s paid that much for 30 seconds since the Jets signed Aaron Rodgers.

Good news: Pittsburgh’s Cameron Heyward was selected as the 2023 Walter Payton Man of the Year. The award recognizes a player’s off-the-field community service, as well as his playing excellence. Heyward, who was nominated for the sixth time this year, is a standout in both areas.

Trivia #1 answer: Which of the following did NOT sing at Stevie Ray Vaughn’ funeral in 1990? – Bonnie Raitt, ZZ Top, Eric Clapton, Stevie Wonder, Jackson Browne, Prince – Prince did not perform
Trivia #2 answer: Who is Gunnarwolfe Fountaine? – Not only does Gunnarwolfe have an all-time sports person’s name, but he became the first player in the history of the Beanpot tournament to score an overtime winner in both the semifinals and the championship game in a single tournament. The Northeastern forward was named tournament MVP.
Trivia #3 answer: The Red Sox’ Carl Yastrzemski played 23 seasons with the Sox primarily in left field. He also played centerfield, rightfield, first base, DH and 33 games at what other position? – Third base

Far better it is to have a stout heart always and suffer one’s share of evils, than to be ever fearing what may happen.

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Happy National No One Eats Alone Day! (So, go ahead and find someone to eat that donut with!)

Just give me some screamin’ guitar!

“Well you’ve heard about love givin’ sight to the blind
My baby’s lovin’ cause the sun to shine
She’s my sweet little thing, she’s my pride and joy
She’s my sweet little baby, I’m her little lover boy”

– Stevie Ray Vaughn (Pride and Joy)

Friday, December 29, 2023

by fasted86

Briefly. (Nope)

A bottle of wine is the perfect amount for two people, provided one of them is not drinking any.

Trivia #1: What is Xiangqi?
Trivia #2: In 1890, the US 7th Cavalry massacred 200+ captive Sioux at Wounded Knee. What US state were they in?
Trivia #3: What NHL player was the fastest to 100 goals (# of games)?
Trivia #4: 50 years ago…Who won the 1973 championships in the NHL, NBA, MLB and the NFL (Super Bowl played in 1973)?

Go away: OK, don’t go away – Joe Flacco. Come on, give it up for Joe. Flacco become the first player in NFL history to have 250 passing yards and multiple passing touchdowns in each of his first five games with a franchise. The Cleveland Browns are now 4-1 under Flacco and clinched a playoff spot.

Wisdom has been chasing you… but you have always been faster.

This week’s sign of the apocalypse: California stores with more than 500 employees will soon be fined for not having a “gender-neutral” toy section once a new state law kicks in Jan. 1. The bill will force stores that sell childcare items or toys to pay a $500 fine should the store fail to create a gender-neutral toy section for kids 12 years old and under. A childcare item, according to the legislation text, “means any product designed or intended by the manufacturer to facilitate sleep, relaxation, or the feeding of children, or to help children with sucking or teething.” Huh?

On this date: December 29, 1972, Life Magazine ceased publication
December 29, 1982, Jamaican Post issues commemorative postage stamp featuring reggae singer Bob Marley

Remember, Sunday is December 31 or… 12-31-23 – 123123! Whoa!

Christmas shopping, you’re doing it wrong: Abrielle Baldwin, her two sons, ages 6 and 10 months, were out shopping with her two teenage brothers, ages 15 and 14, and their mother. Baldwin’s 14-year-old brother was apparently upset that his older brother was getting more gifts than him, sparking an argument. The argument carried on at Baldwin’s home. The 14-year-old took out a handgun and threatened to shoot his older brother in the head. Family members present at the home tried separating the teens. The younger teen then began arguing with Baldwin. He then allegedly shot her in the chest with a .40 caliber handgun. The 15-year-old teen then took out his own .45 caliber handgun and shot his brother in the stomach. 

In all-world quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ last 8 games, he is 3-5 (.375), hitting 64.6% of his passes for 1,921 yards, 11 TD and 8 INT. DOH!

Speaking of futility, the Detroit Pistons lost in OT to the Celtics last night tying the record with their 28th consecutive loss. The night before they set the record for losses in a single season.

They said it: “I’m unbelievably proud of the group, the way they bring it. They’ve heard all the stuff about our team and they just keep bringing it. I know it’s going to pay off.” – Detroit Pistons coach Monty Williams (In other words, they have a chance!)

The Celtics meanwhile are 15-0 at home and have the league’s best record at 24-6.

Despite some recent shoddy play, the Bruins are still tops in goals allowed and second in total points.

Seen on Twitter: “Taylor Swift is to the Kansas City Chiefs what Yoko Ono was to the Beatles.” And “Thank you, Taylor Swift for Yoko Ono’ing the Chiefs.”

Betting, you’re doing it right. Did you see the guy who hit a $5, 14-man anytime touchdown parlay for $489K? Wowza!

WTF! The Chinese Xiangqi Association (CXA) announced it was stripping Yan Chenglong of his title of “Xiangqi King” over cheating allegations and “extremely bad character.” Officials addressed the 48-year-old champion’s behavior in the post-game celebrations. Yan apparently consumed alcohol with others in his room on the night of the 17th, and then he defecated in the bathtub of the room he was staying in on the 18th. How did he cheat, you ask? Yan was rumored to have used anal beads with wireless transmitters to help him in the contests. Really.

Interest-free checking. Me: “I’d like to open an account.” Teller: “Who cares?”

Before you go betting on the Buffalo Bills tomorrow, keep in mind that since 2000, at home, they are 4-19 (.174) vs. Bill Belichick and 103-67 (.606) vs. the rest of the league. 

Useless information supposed to fire my imagination: See trivia question #1
Useless information supposed to fire my imagination, part deux: Bailey Zappe is 4-2 after 6 starts. Tom Brady was 4-2 after 6 starts.

Again?! A tourist from Singapore tragically plummeted to her death from a cliff (70 feet) at a New York state park last week while hiking with her husband. She and her husband had been hiking when they stopped to take photos at the edge of the cliff. 

Studies have shown that the reason you may be awake right now is because you are not asleep.

T-minus 9 days and the NFL still has not announced the start times of games next Sunday, the final weekend of the regular season.

Good news: Kiss-of-death maybe but, I still haven’t shoveled snow this season.

Article I’ll skip: CFP (College Football Playoff) odds… for next season

Trivia #1 answer: What is Xiangqi? – It is the official title of what is known as Chinese Chess.
Trivia #2: In 1890, the US 7th Cavalry massacred 200+ captive Sioux at Wounded Knee. What US state were they in? – South Dakota
Trivia #3: What NHL player was the fastest to 100 goals (# of games)? – Mike Bossy (129), (Teemu Selanne is second at 134)
Trivia #4: 50 years ago…Who won the 1973 championships in the NHL, NBA, MLB and the NFL (Super Bowl played in 1973)? – NHL (Montreal Canadiens), NBA (New York Knicks), MLB (Oakland Athletics), NFL (Miami Dolphins)

My kid is turning out just like me. Well played, karma, well played.

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Be safe, and have a healthy, happy New Years. And enjoy the college bowl games!

Happy National No Interruptions Day! (Last work day of the year)

“My son turned ten just the other day
He said, “Thanks for the ball, Dad, come on let’s play
Can you teach me to throw”, I said “Not today
I got a lot to do”, he said, “That’s okay”

Harry Chapin (Cat’s In The Cradle)