Cory Lidle: RIP

March 22, 1972 - October 11, 2006

Cory started his career in 1997 and eventually played for 7 different teams. For his career he was 82-72 with 11 career complete games and 5 shutouts. He has a career ERA of 4.57 with 838 strike outs. He is survived by his wife Melanie Varela and son, Christopher.

Career Links: Wikipedia:
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Plaschke: I Can't Believe I Agree With You Again

So once again I wake up this morning unsure what the day would bring. The LA Kings won last night, but looked unconvincing. They were lucky to walk away with a 4-2 win. The Detroit Tigers, my anointed choice for World Series winner, won game 1 of the ALCS against the A's. I wouldn't be surprised if the Tigers sweeped the A's.

I walk out the front gate and pick up the morning paper. I stare at the sports page as I see, front and center, an article by my favorite... ahem... LA Times columnist- Bill Plaschke. "Bring Back Nomar? No Way."

First of all, without commenting on the specifics of the piece I would only say that it may be too early to start roughing up Nomar. It has been less than a week since the weekend loss to the Mets. The season is still fresh in our minds and the glory that Nomar brought back to the team deserves our continued honor and respect. He is, no doubt, the current most favorite Dodger in the eyes of the fans. Nomar was born and bred Dodger Blue. Even if this is his only season with us I will always consider him a Dodger.

Nevertheless, since good ol' Bill brought it up, I have to say I agree with him. I know... I know... I can't stand agreeing with Plaschke, but I do.

We always knew going into the season that Nomar would be a temporary bridge to the farm system. His presence allowed the fruit in Vero Beach, Jacksonville and Las Vegas to grow ripe at their own pace. No need to rush them.

Now, after having an opportunity see some of our best prospects bloom before our eyes we have to start picking that fruit. It's time to give James Loney the chance he deserves. He deserves a shot at 1st base. He needs to be given the opportunity to succeed or fail. Loney is our future, and I'm convinced that we won't regret saying goodbye to Nomar.

So wipe those tears from your eyes and look to the future. We have much to look forward to. They are named Loney, Martin, Kuo, Broxton, Betemit, Ethier and Kemp. Not to mentioned Young, Miller, Hanrahan, LaRoche, DeWitt, Orenduff, Muegge, Elbert, Abreu, Hu and Megrew.

Go Tigers Go!

Now that the sun has set, at least for the Dodgers, this year, who should I be rooting for?

Can I cheer for the Cardinals? I still hurt from Jack Clark's homerun in game 6 of the 1985 National League Championship Season. So that's a no.

How about the Mets? Maybe, but ... it's probably way to soon for me considering how they walloped the Dodgers last week. Call me bitter. I don't care.

Is Oakland worthy of my devotion? I was a big apologist for Milton Bradley when he was with the Dodgers, but today, no more. Besides, Oakland is far to close to San Francisco. Thumbs down for Oakland.

Lastly, comes the Tigers. Can you believe the Tigers? The team that brought us Kirk Gibson is about ready to give us another miracle. They go from one of the worst teams in Baseball last season to one of the best teams in Baseball this season. Jim Leyland taught them to be winners and solidifies his grasp as the greatest coach this side of the Atlantic Ocean. Then they knock out the Yankees in the ALDS. That's all I need to hear. They have my vote.

Tigers it is!

Go Tigers Go!

Photo Link: Walk K: Flickr: