Biggio just hit the 29th leadoff HR of his career (2nd in 2 nights). The NL record is 30 by Bobby Bonds. I believe the Major League record is held by Ricky Henderson, but I don't know how many.
Anyone else see that Merced catch? Unbelievable!!! Whatever the Astros are paying him this season, it's not nearly enough.
Oswalt had struck out Sammy three times, but he had been struggling. I would have left him in though. I don't like this. Trailing the Cubs with 2 innings left.
I can't see the game (keeping up with ESPN Gamecast), so i don't know how Oswalt looked. But why put in a lefty to face Gutty and Sosa? Why not Jackson or Williams, then bring in Vallone to face McGriff and Stairs if necessary? I just don't trust Vallone. I know he's had a good run since he got here, but I never feel comfortable with him on the mound.
Oswalt pitched well but was in trouble in the 3rd-6th innings. I suspect he may have been gassed. Since Jackson and Williams pitched last night, the better question would be why didn't Dotel come in in the 7th?
Woulda left roy in to face at least the first two guys. Roy owned Sammy tonight. But, in this scenario, after Ron got the first two guys out, bring in Dotel.
Babe ruth played many years in a park that was 290' to the corners. The Polo grounds (another "great" park) was 250' to left i believe. I don't see any asterisks on those records.
In addition to that, players in those days were allowed to swing bats that are considered illegal now. Babe Ruth, I understand, swung a HUGE stick when he played.
Not to mention, pitchers are actually better than the used to be. With conditioning becoming so important, the game is played at a much more advanced level than it once was. New pitches have been introduced, etc. Right now the hitters are on top fo things (as has been the case in the past, too) but that might eventually change.
