Thursday, January 31, 2008

Day 26: Smokers Outside The Hospital Doors

Today's Baseball Song of the Day comes from an interview of the Indie British Alt-Punk Band called the Editors. It turns out that watching late night tv is actually good for something. In this case, for getting a new fan of baseball.

The Editors got their very first single to sell out in only 24 hours. The song, "Bullets," flew off the shelf faster than botox at a Beverly Hills pharmacy. It was an incredible selling until you find out that they only made 500 singles of the song. They followed that up with the song, "Munich" which they later performed on the Conan O'Brien show. It seems their fond of late night telly. In January of 2008, they were nominated for a Brit Award for...get this...of all things, Best British Group.

The following is an excerpt from an interview in the Seattle Times,

Q: Do you have any plans for Detroit?

A: I've already been to my favorite place, which is the Magic Stick. I don't know. I'd quite like to go to the Detroit Tigers. I'd quite like to go and watch them play. I'm a bit of a baseball guy. They've got that new field.

Q: How did you become a baseball fan? Seems a little odd for a guy who grew up in Ipswich.

A: When I had a [crappy] job, I was trying to break the monotony by staying up really late and going out with my friends and stuff, and whenever I would get back home, they would have late-night sports on this TV channel. And it was invariably American sports because of the time delay. So I'd get in at midnight and there's a game just starting, so I used to watch all sorts. Ice hockey was pretty good, but it's very difficult to see. I had very bad reception on my telly so you could never see the puck. So I settled for baseball because it's boring enough to send you off to sleep and you don't really miss anything if you do fall asleep for a bit and then wake up. It's still going on and not much happened. Great boredom sport.

Q: What's your favorite team?

A: For some reason, I was quite into the Arizona Diamondbacks. I don't really understand why. All my different favorite teams are in different cities. My favorite football team is the Chicago Bears because I used to have a Chicago Bears top; it was a picture of a teddy bear holding a football running along on my Chicago Bears jersey. So I followed them. Then I have the Toronto Maple Leafs because I don't really understand why they're called the Maple Leafs and not the Maple Leaves. So I dig them.

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There best showing to date in the UK Charts is today's BSOD. SOtHD reached #7 on the UK singles chart.

To view the video for the song, click here.



BSOD 26: Smokers Outside the Hospital Doors
Artist: Editors
Album: An End Has a Start
Released: June 2007

Smokers Outside the Hospital Doors Lyrics

Pull the blindfold down
So your eyes can't see
Now run as fast as you can
Through this field of trees

Say goodbye to everyone
You have ever known
You are not gonna see them ever again

I can't shake this feeling I've got
My dirty hands, have I been in the wars?
The saddest thing that I'd ever seen
Were smokers outside the hospital doors

Someone turn me around
Can I start this again?

How can we wear our smiles
With our mouths wide shut
'Cause you stopped us from singin'

I can't shake this feeling I've got
My dirty hands, have I been in the wars?
The saddest thing that I'd ever seen
Were smokers outside the hospital doors

Someone turn me around
Can I start this again?
Now someone turn us around
Can we start this again?

We've all been changed
From what we were
Our broken parts
Left smashed off the floor

I can't believe you
If I can't hear you
I can't believe you
If I can't hear you

We've all been changed
From what we were
Our broken parts
Smashed off the floor

We've all been changed
From what we were
Our broken parts
Smashed off the floor

Someone turn me around
(We've all been changed from what we were)
Can I start this again?
(Our broken parts smashed off the floor)
Now someone turn us around
(We've all been changed from what we were)
Can we start this again?
(Our broken parts smashed off the floor)

Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Day 25: Danza de Los Gigantes

Nature or nurture? Hard work or luck? Your god given destiny or your ability to choose your own way? For most people, from the day you are born, you amble your way through life finding something that suits you. For a select few, it seems that perhaps their path was chosen for them. However agreeing to take it, is a whole 'nother thing.

Take the case of the Bonds' Family. The elder Bonds, Bobby; was a terrific player who played mostly for the SF Giants during the early part of his career which lasted from '68-74 and then for seven different teams in seven years thereafter. Known as the "30/30 guy" (30 Home Runs & 30 Stolen bases in one season), Bobby was an all around talent who went on to hit 30/30 a record five times and in both leagues as well. He was named the NL Player of the Year in 1973 by the Sporting News. He finished his career with a .268 avg, 332 HR's, and 1,024 RBI's.

After retiring Bobby turned to a career as hitting coach, bench coach and working in the front office mostly for the Giants. He was with the Giants in 1993, when his son Barry joined the team, and went on to legendary status becoming baseball's single season HR Champ (73) as well as the All-Time HR Champ (762). Together, they are baseball's most prodigious team as far as a a father-son combination in the statistics of HR, RBI, & SB's.

There are others famous bloodlines in baseball. The Griffeys (Ken Sr. and Ken Jr.), the Boone Family - who had three generations of ball players (Ray, Bob, and Bret), and the Bell Family (Gus, Buddy, and David) with three generations as well.

However, sometimes, the son (and grandson) of a famous player decides to take another path. In the baseball loving country of Cuba, a third generation of players found himself at the crossroads at a young age, and eventually stayed true to his family's roots. Only this time, the path chosen was to stay with playing music and not to stay playing baseball.

Born in Havana, Cuba, Jazz pianist, composer, and arranger, Chuchito Valdés, Jr. is a member of one of the most prolific Cuban jazz piano dynasties in history. With his grandfather, Bebo Valdés, and his father Chucho Valdés, Chuchito has helped to carry on their family's legendary musical name.

Growing up listening to Jazz music, and studying classical music, Chuchito abandoned music when he was in his early teens to go after another passion of his; baseball. He played for the Cuban National Team (in his age bracket), before he decided to return to music. In an article/interview on Jazz.com, he stated, "
My mother was the person who encouraged me to pursue a career as a musician. She told me that I had a gift for music, that I was a “natural.” Believe it or not, I started as a baseball player. . . but my mother always encouraged me to believe that I had options and that I didn’t have to stick to one thing."

From an article on the Jazz Police web site...

In the late 90s, Chuchito led the famed Cuban band Irakare, the band that heavily influenced him as a teenager. "I have to say that the first Irakere band is my favorite. I would go with my father every day to rehearsals and see how Arturo Sandoval and Paquito D'Rivera would practice their passages. I experienced a great innovation in Cuban music, and it's one of the best things that's happened to me,” says Chuchito.

Seeing as Chuchito followed in the steps of the Giants in the Latin / Jazz / Cuban Music genre, today's Baseball Song of the Day is: Danza de Los Gigantes (Dance of the Giants).

BSOD 25: Danza de Los Gigantes
Artist: Chuchito Valdés, Jr.
Album: Encantado
Released: February 2002

Links of interest:

http://www.jazz.com/features-and-interviews/2008/1/28/in-conversation-with-chuchito-valdes-jr

http://www.brosociety.org/acts/chuchito/ChuchitoBios.htm

http://www.jazzpolice.com/content/view/7141/116/

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Day 24: La La La La La La La

Some things just aren't explainable, such as putting ketchup on a hot dog, putting a stamp on a pre-paid postage envelope, or putting yourself in the Aqua Teen Hunger Force tv show.

Recently, ex-baller and Baseball Tonight analyst John Kruk appeared as a siren along with Neko Case and Kelly Hogan on the Adult Swim Aqua Teen Hunger Force tv show on Cartoon Network. In the episode, Kruk performs his song, "La La La La La."

Watch the Kruk-er sing via the video below, then immediately go take a shower. As he once said, "I ain't an athlete, lady, I'm a baseball player." He ain't no singer either.


Cartoon Network



We apologize for today's Baseball Song of the Day, "La La La La La La La." by John Kruk and the Sirens.

BSOD 24: La La La La La La
Artist: John Kruk
Released: not really..just performed on the show
Album: we hope that it doesn't come to that - ever

La La La La La La lryics

la la la la la la lah
la la la la la la lah
la la la la la la lah
lahh lahh lahhhhhh lahhhh (...fades)

Monday, January 28, 2008

Day 23: Straight to the Bank

As a fan of both baseball and music, sometimes in reading and researching material for articles for each Baseball Song of the Day, I'll find an article that reflects perfectly the premise behind the issues of today, how it affects the participants involved, the industry involved, and eventually in the end, the enjoyment (and pocketbook) of those who fund the participants; the common fan.

Today's find is such a day.

The following is a portion of an article titled, "Steroid scandal reaching beyond high-profile sports figures" published in the Appleton Post-Crescent (WI) by Reg Wydeven. Mr. Wydeven is a partner with the Appleton-based law firm of McCarty Law LLP.

..............................................

Former Sen. George Mitchell's 20-month investigation into performance enhancing drugs in Major League Baseball resulted in a voluminous report that named names. The biggest name listed was that of Roger Clemens, the seven-time Cy Young award-winning pitcher.

Clemens was one of 20 New York Yankees named in the report after his former trainer, Brian McNamee, informed Mitchell that he injected Clemens with steroids and HGH about 16 to 21 times during 1998, 2000 and 2001 before MLB banned performance-enhancing substances.

As a result of the Mitchell report, Matthew Mitchell (no relation) is now suing Clemens' New York Yankees. He's suing the team for $221, the amount he paid for tickets to five Yankee games he attended between 2002 and 2007. His claim is filed under "failure to provide goods paid for," as the players were "artificially enhanced."

If Mitchell gets the money back for his tickets, he may seek refunds for CDs he purchased, too. Several performers, including R&B music star Mary J. Blige, and rap musicians 50 Cent, Timbaland and Wyclef Jean were identified in an Albany investigation as possibly having received or used performance-enhancing drugs.

(read the entire article by clicking here)

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Today's BSOD is "Straight to the Bank" by popular rapper 50 Cent. "Fitty's" lyrics point right to the core of the main reason why all these athletes and performers are doing anything and everything that they can to stay in the game, and at the top of the game. Money, and lots of it. We should also mention that one of 50 Cent's album's is titled, "Get Rich or Die Trying." 'Nuff said.


BSOD 23: Straight to the Bank
Artist: 50 Cent
Album: Curtis
Released: September 2007

Straight to the Bank lyrics (warning: explicit)

ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha

yeah...

when im out in NY
boys, blunts and phillies
when im out in LA
boys, wraps and switches
now bloods walk to this
now crips walk to this
now throw it up, raise it up
for that gangsta shit
now bloodwalk to this
now cripwalk to this
now throw it up, raise it up
for that gangsta shit

im in my lambo maggot, my 4 4 faggot
doors lift up im like go go gadget
see the shit i got on homie i'd hate to
my teflon on but my government issue
i hit your vertabrate bullets rip through tissues
yo wife on the futon hugging the shitzu
homie you a bitch u got feminine ways
heard you got 4 lips and bleed for 7 days
i got 4 fifths and bananas on the k's
i got mo' whips than a runaway slave
me and yayo go back like some hot top favs
when i made 50 mil, Em got paid
when i made 60 mil, Dre got paid
when i made 80 mil, jimmy got paid
i aint even got to rap now life is made
said i aint even got to rap, im filthy maan

I'm laughing straight to the bank with this
ha ha,ha ha ha ha, ha ha, ha ha ha ha
im laughing straight to the bank with this
ha ha,ha ha ha ha, ha ha, ha ha ha ha
im laughing straight to the bank with this
ha ha,ha ha ha ha, ha ha, ha ha ha ha
im laughing straight to the bank with this
ha ha,ha ha ha ha, ha ha, ha ha ha ha
im laughing

i pay nothin but hundred dollar bills in the bank roll
i got the kind of money that the bank cant hold
got it off the street movin bundles and oh
'73 caprice old skool when i roll
breeze pass with the E-Z pass fuck the toll
no more platinum im wearing gold
im internationally known as the kid with the flow
that brings enough dough
it's never enough dough, shit i need more
nigga shit out the store baby blue its all
fresh off the flow dash box by the dash box
in case they want war make the purple bring the green even
fuck the law im also raw im hot im sure
im like the coolest mothafucka round the globe boy
set the club on fire i told ya
im the general salute me soldier

I'm laughing straight to the bank with this
ha ha,ha ha ha ha, ha ha, ha ha ha ha
im laughing straight to the bank with this
ha ha,ha ha ha ha, ha ha, ha ha ha ha
im laughing straight to the bank with this
ha ha,ha ha ha ha, ha ha, ha ha ha ha
im laughing straight to the bank with this
ha ha,ha ha ha ha, ha ha, ha ha ha ha
im laughing

now break it up now
shorty work it out
i wanna see you break it down
now back it up now
you know what im about
its like a bank job
i'm in and im out
now work it out now
work it out, work it out
now work it out now
work it out, work it out

words

Sunday, January 27, 2008

Day 22: Blackmail

Things just seem to get stranger and stranger by the day with the rumors and stories concerning The Mitchell Report and performance enhancing drugs within baseball. The person to inject life into the story a few years ago by writing his book "Juiced", Jose Canseco is back in the limelight with the latest twist.

According to the NY Times, Canseco who is in the process of writing a second book concerning players and their steroid/hgh consuming ways, titled "Vindicated", was said to have offered to keep Detroit Tigers Outfielder Magglio Ordonez' name out of the new book if he invested into a film project of Canseco's. Ordonez was not one of the persons named in The Mitchell Report.

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From the NY Times article on 1/24/08, "Canseco Is Said to Seek Favor to Omit Name"...

Four people in baseball confirmed that referrals were made from Major League Baseball to the F.B.I. regarding Canseco’s actions relating to the six-time All-Star outfielder Magglio Ordóñez, who was not mentioned in Canseco’s earlier book or in any other report on performance-enhancing drugs in baseball. All four insisted on anonymity because they said they didn’t have authority to speak about the events...

...Canseco denied that he — or any associate of his — ever asked Ordóñez for money to keep his name out of a book titled “Vindicated.”...

Canseco said he tried to contact Ordóñez several months ago to talk about his books but did not hear back from him. Canseco refused to say whether Ordóñez would be named in connection with performance-enhancing drugs in his second book. “You are going to have to buy the book to see that,” he said.

Reached at his home in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., on Wednesday, Ordóñez said he did not want to talk in detail about Canseco. Although he criticized him for writing his tell-all book, he said he did not want to get involved with any formal investigation.

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Today's Baseball Song of the Day is from a hard-rocking punk band called "The Runaways" that was fronted by Joan Jett of "I Love Rock and Roll" fame. The all-girl teenage band was best known for songs such as "Cherry Bomb" and "Born to Be Bad."


Our BSOD is aptly named, "Blackmail." The Runaways also spawned metal rocker / and 80's hair queen Lita Ford and the 1989 hit "Kiss Me Deadly" that reached #6 in the Billboard charts.


BSOD 22: Blackmail
Artist: The Runaways
Album: Best of the Runaways
Released: 1987

Blackmail Lyrics

You didnt care you went and broke my heart
Ill get ya back you know its gonna start
You gave me pain thats whatcha done to me
When I get through youll be sorry you met me

Youll wish you were never born
Blackmail, blackmail
Ill make you pay
For the life that you tore
Blackmail
Black
Mail

You put it to me and now well play my game
Ill wrap you up and youll go insane
It took so long and I waited my turn
You pay your debt Im gonna make you burn you know

Youll wish you were never born
Blackmail, blackmail
Ill make you pay
For the life that you tore
Blackmail
Black
Mail

I know about you and Im gonna tell
The way I planned youre gonna go through hell
Now you listen to what Im about to say
Or you wont live to see the light of day, you know

And what article written that mentions blackmail could be complete without a mention of Monty Python and their terrific blackmail sketch. Enjoy!!!

Saturday, January 26, 2008

Day 21: Nolan Ryan, He's a Hero To Us All

Ok, you're picking your team. You can have anyone that you want, whom do you pick first? How about a 60 year old ex-flame throwing right hander? The Texas Rangers are looking to do just that. Now, before you start writing the screenplay about an old timer looking to break into the big leagues nearing his AARP years, and make millions in Hollywood, it's important to remember that this is no "sleeper pick." This is Nolan Ryan, and this is a report about him possibly becoming the next President of the Texas Rangers Baseball Club.

Since retiring from his playing days, he's been elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame, worked with the Rangers and Astros in "personal services contracts", and is the owner of two minor-league clubs, the Triple-A Round Rock Express and the Double-A team, the Corpus Christi Hooks.

....................................................................

According to an article written by Jeff Wilson of the Star-Telegram titled, "Ryan getting Rangers' vote for presidency?"

Rangers owner Tom Hicks met with Nolan Ryan over lunch in Georgetown on Friday and might be trying to lure him away from the Houston Astros and back to the Rangers.

The bait might be the club presidency.

Ryan confirmed the 90-minute meeting with Hicks, son Tommy Jr. and Rangers vice president Jim Sundberg, and said that the team’s search for a president did come up in the conversation.

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With over 5,000 strikeouts, 7 no hitters, a member of the HOF, the Nolan Ryan Express just may be making another pitch. Today's Baseball Song of the Day is "Nolan Ryan, He's a Hero to Us All" written and performed by the outlaw country musician, Jerry Jeff Walker.

Mr. Walker's most well known song, was the hit "Mr. BoJangles" which he first wrote and recorded in 1968, but reached #9 on the billboart chart in 1971 when it was sung by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band.


BSOD 21: Nolan Ryan, He's A Hero To Us All

Artist: Jerry Jeff Walker
Album: Navajo Rug
Released: August 1991


To hear a sample of the song, click on the album, and on the page that appears, there are links to listen to the song.

Nolan Ryan, He's a Hero to Us All lyrics

Well, our story starts in Texas, where he's tempered by the heat
That skinny Alvin boy believes his fastball can't be heat
So he brings it and he brings it and it passes every test
They're talkin' he's a wild man might be the fastest in the West

Well, he's drafted by New York, he's gonna pitch up there in Shea
With those amazing Mets, he'll help them take it all the way
He gets a World Series ring, he stays modest, he don't boast
Now it's off to California, where he'll make history on the coast

Chorus:
Nolan Ryan, he's a hero to us all
Nolan Ryan, he stands straight, he stands tall
He don't mess around boys
He just throws a mean fast ball

Tom Morgan is the angel, gets Nolan in second gear
Then he pitches four no-hitters in about as many years
He's working for Gene Autry, they're calling him the Ryan Express
He throws one ball a hundred, now he's the fastest in the West

But after eight years on the left coast,
He says he wants to come home
So he signs on with the Astros,
He'll bring magic to the dome
As he throws his fifth no-hitter,
They're talkin' about he might be the best

In Texas people know, he's the fastest in the West

Chorus

Now he's a Texas Ranger, but he don't tote no gun
He'll mow you down with the heater, you smell leather, hear it hum
He throws a sixth no-hitter, the Oakland A's just met Big Tex

Now they're gonna judge all the rest,
Boys, against the fastest in the West

Now let's count up some numbers, he's forty-three years of age
He's got 5200 strike-outs, six no-hitters to date
There's 57 shut-outs, right up against 300 wins
And on the very first ballot, the Hall of Fame's gotta take him in

Friday, January 25, 2008

Day 20: Joe DiMaggio Done it Again

The great American songwriter and observer of the common folks' way of life, Woody Guthrie penned today's Baseball Song of the Day; "Joe Dimaggio Done it Again." After World War II, Guthrie and his wife moved to Mermaid Avenue in Coney Island where they started their family and had four children, one of which; Cathy who died in a fire at only fours old. It is this period, that many think he produced some of his best work.

In 1995, one of Woody's other three children, daughter Nora, contacted Englishman Billy Bragg about putting music to many of Woody's unfinished words and lyrics. He accepted her offer and in turn, contacted the American band Wilco about contributing to the project which eventually was titled, Mermaid Avenue. It was such a well received recording (they received a Grammy for Best Contemporary Folk Album), that both Bragg and Wilco reunited in the effort to produce a second go-around in Mermaid Avenue, Vol. 2.


It was Nora's hope that the songs would help to introduce Woody's historic talent to a new generation. With their free hollarin', yip yapping, banjo-picking, and wonderful harmonies, this one is a pure delight that instantly puts you in a good mood reminiscing about a baseball legend doing what only legends can do, which is producing results over and over again, and lifting the spirits of all who are lucky enough to witness his tremendous feats.


BSOD 20: Joe DiMaggio Done it Again

Artist: Billy Bragg & Wilco (lyrics by Woody Guthrie)
Album: Mermaid Avenue Vol. 2
Released: 2000

To hear a sample of the song, click on the album, and on the page that appears, there are links to listen to the song.

Joe DiMaggio Done it Again lyrics

Joe DiMaggio's done it again
Clackin' that bat, gone with the wind
Joe DiMaggio's done it again

Some folks thought Big Joe was done
Some just figured Joe was gone
Steps to the platter with a great big grin
Joe DiMaggio's done it again

I'm gonna tell you just the way I feel
Man can't run without his heel
Watch that raggy pill split the wind
Joe DiMaggio's done it again

All three fielders jumped their best
Trying to climb that high board fence
They all growed whiskers on their chins
Joe DiMaggio's done it again

Up along the clouds where the eagles roam
Joe cracked that ball to whine and moan
His buddies all laugh as they trot on in
Joe DiMaggio's done it again

Grandma's home by the radio
On the television watching Joe
She jerks the beard off of Grandpa's chin
Joe DiMaggio's done it again

The puppy dog barked at the pussycat
How does it look from where you sat?
Looks like a cyclone slidin' in
Joe DiMaggio's done it again

Thursday, January 24, 2008

Day 19: China Blue

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Joe Torre (left) and vice president of the San Diego Padres Dave Winfi eld (right) pose for photos with young Chinese baseball players during a press conference in Beijing. (Photo: AP) read story at China Daily



Major League Baseball announced on 1/24/08 that the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres will be the first MLB teams to play the sport in China. Hosted by the China Baseball Association, the games will be held on March 15 & 16 in Beijing at the Wukesong Baseball Field, which will be the venue for the 2008 Olympic Games.



From MLB.com...

"Major League Baseball's international growth has been nothing short of remarkable, and we are thrilled that the Padres and the Dodgers will showcase our sport to the people of China by playing in MLB China Series 2008," Commissioner Bud Selig said. "I would like to thank the Dodgers and the Padres, the Major League Baseball Players Association, the China Baseball Association, Wukesong Group and all the parties who have made this momentous trip possible. We are greatly anticipating this wonderful opportunity."


...International ventures are nothing new for the two franchises. Most recently, the Dodgers played the Mets in a Mexico City exhibition series in 2003, and established relations in China in 1980 by building the first practice field in Beijing and funding construction of a baseball stadium, named Dodger Stadium, in Tianjin, 75 miles southeast of the capital.

"The Dodgers' ties to Asia date back more than half a century, so it's only fitting that as we celebrate 50 years in Los Angeles, we are fortunate enough to take part in this historic series," said Dodgers owner and chairman Frank McCourt. "The opportunities to expand this great game into China are limitless, and we hope this trip will solidify the Dodgers' role at the forefront of the globalization of baseball."

View a Joe Torre video concerning the games in China

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Today's Baseball Song of the Day is "China Blue" (30 second listen) in honor of the Dodgers traveling and playing two exhibitions games in China. The track is from ex-Free and Bad Company singer Paul Rodgers, who in 2000 put out a terrific solo album titled "Electric." China Blue opens with an asia-styled guitar riff and reminds one of the long trip over the oceans and around the world to a land foreign and yet wonderfully new to us all. With the ever-expanding roster of International players into the major leagues, one can only assume that in a matter of a few short years, MLB will follow in the footsteps of the NBA and will soon see players arising out of the blue from China.


BSOD 19: China Blue
Artist: Paul Rodgers
Album: Electric
Released: 2000


To hear a sample of the song, click on the album, and on the page that appears, there are links to listen to the song.


And will you wait for me
as I cross the raging sea
and i wait for you
China Blue

And will the stars looking down
remember the sound
of your tears and the wind
China Blue

Oh the seasons may change
from the green to the gold
but my heart will remain
true to you

Save your smile for the sun
and your sighs for the moon
I'll save my love for you
China Blue

Oh the seasons may change
from the green to the gold
but my heart will remain
true to you


Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Day 18: Paradise Valley

Arizona Diamondbacks head groundskeeper Grant Trenbeath (right) paints the Paradise Valley logo behind home plate on Monday. (Christie Cowles/MLB.com)

With all the talk of baseball and steroids and negative information floating around, its great to read a recent story about what positive effects baseball can bring about to a community. Recently at Paradise Valley High School in Arizona, nearly 50 groundskeepers from 25 of the Major League Baseball Clubs spent their time and many talents in completely upgrading the field.

The groundskeepers were there as part of their annual three-day conference, in which the final day is practiced as "community day" as they graciously use their talents to smooth and rake the dirt, put in new bases, paint logos, baselines, and bring their major league talents to some high school hope for future stars.

To view a slideshow of images at MLB.com, click here.

Today's Baseball Song of the Day is titled, "Paradise Valley" from the artist known as Kostas. You may not be familiar with his name, but the number of hits this man has written for others, puts him in the major league of song writers.

Paradise Valley is a sweet song about longing for a place that remains close to your heart. A wonderfully simple, stripped down acoustical journey through Paradise Valley, Kostas strums his guitar and melodically tells of the beauty of nature and the surroundings of Paradise Valley.

The song actually refers to Paradise Valley, Montana, however with lyrics such as such as, "up over the mountains across the sky, the stars are falling over paradise valley, a lot of wishes, are coming true tonight", and the work that the MLB groundskeepers generously gave, its easy to believe that this season, the Paradise Valley Trojans will be on their own field of dreams.

View the Paradise Press Paradise Valley web site

Kostas Biography from MySpace:


Kostas and his family immigrated to Montana from Greece when he was seven years old. He now has homes in Montana and Nashville, and aside from songwriting and performing, he enjoys hunting, fishing and raising vintage guitars on his "guitar ranch." Kostas received his first No. 1 Country hit with his first single release. The single entitled, "Timber I'm Falling In Love," was recorded by Patty Loveless. He also penned the songs "The Lonely Side Of Love," and "On Down The Line" for her follow-up albums which also reached Top 10.

Kostas went on to write many more Top 10 singles including: "Heart Full Of Love," by Holly Dunn, "Turn It On, Turn It Up, Turn Me Loose," and "Nothing's Changed Here," by Dwight Yoakam, "Lord Have Mercy On The Working Man," by Travis Tritt, "Going Out Of My Mind" and "Love On The Loose, Heart On The Run,” by McBride and The Ride and "Life ..9" by Martina McBride. He also scored two more No. 1 country hits with Dwight Yoakam's "Ain't That Lonely Yet" and Patty Loveless' first Epic release, "Blame It On Your Heart," which was BMI's most performed country song of 1994.

BSOD 18: Paradise Valley
Artist: Kostas
Album: Paradise Valley
Released: January 2006


To hear a sample of the song, click on the album, and on the page that appears, there are links to listen to the song.


I'm going down to Paradise Valley
Spend a little time there
to see an old friend
She's a little bit South
of a town called Bed****
where the wind blows round in circles
and the river never ends

sitting on a rock in yankee jim canyon
looking down the river below
ohhh yankee jim he's looking up at me
telling me stories
from the long ago

cowboys and injuns and wild horses prancin
pretty girls dancing to and fro
the sun wakes up, the young romancers
and lays them down in the soft moon glow

i'm going down to Paradise Valley
to spend a little time there, seeing old friends
just a little bit south of a place called bedrock
where the wind blows in circles
where the river never ends

first time i saw her, she was dressed in August
beautiful as creation, looking so divine
i stayed with her, until the snow fell
and she said it's alright if you leave me behind
if you look out the window, you can see the moonrise

up over the mountains across the sky
the stars are falling over paradise valley
a lot of wishes, are coming true tonight

i'm going down to Paradise Valley
to spend a little time there to see an old friend

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Day 17: I'll Take You Home

Trivia Question...Can you name a baseball player who also is in the Rock & Roll Hall of fame? Another hint, this multi-talented person received the Order of the Palmetto, which is the highest award a civilian can receive (in the state of South Carolina). He also participated in the Normandy Invasion, and received four bronze stars. Although he was a pitcher, he'd be proud to raise his WHIP ratio by letting you know that his musical team offered up the following hits: Save the Last Dance for Me, There Goes My Baby, Money Honey, Up On the Roof, Under the Boardwalk, Some Kind of Wonderful, This Magic Moment, Such a Night, Honey Love, and even White Christmas (featured later in the movie Home Alone).

Answer: Bill Pinkney of The Drifters. Pinkney pitched from 1949 to 1951 in the Negro Baseball League with the New York Blue Sox.

This past Sunday, The South Carolina Department of Transportation dedicated a portion of old US Highway 521 in Dalzell to Bill Pinkney. Between Highway 441 and Charles Jackson Road, part of Highway 521 will be named "Bill Pinkney of the Original Drifters Memorial Highway" in honor of the legendary singer.

So in honor of the road that will now take many people home bearing his name - is today's baseball song of the day.

BSOD 17: I'll Take You Home
Artist: The Drifters
Album: tbd
Released: 1963

Everybody knows you came with him but another girl caught his eye-ee-eye (I'll take you home)
Now you're sitting there all alone watching them dance by (I'll take you home)
And I know you're wondering what you'll do if he doesn't come back to you
But, don't worry, I'll take you home so, little girl, don't you be blue

Now I know that you wore that pretty red dress just for him to see (I'll take you home)
Mm-mm-yeah
But I wanna tell ya that red dress looks good to me (I'll take you home)
Whoa, I know you feel like you wanna die but try pretending that I'm your guy
And don't worry, I'll take you home so, little girl, now don't you cry

I'll take you home when the dance is over
I'll take you home, just wait and see
You're gonna dance the last dance with me

Let me tell you now

I know the way that you feel, I can understand (I'll take you home)
Mm-mm-mm
'cause I had a date just like you when the dance began (I'll take you home)
But the girl I came with just wasn't true, she's the girl who took him from you
So you see now, I'll take you home 'cause little girl, I'm lonely, too

Ohhhhhhh, let me tell you now

I know the way that you feel, I can understand (I'll take you home)
Mm-mm-mm
'cause I had a date just like you when the dance began (I'll take you home)
But the girl I came with just wasn't true, she's the girl who took him from you
So you see now, I'll take you home 'cause, little girl, I'm lonely, too

Whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh
I'll take you home 'cause, little girl, I'm lonely, too
Mm-mm, mm-mm, yeah

I'll take you home 'cause, little girl, I'm lonely, too



Links of Note:

http://www.vocalgroup.org/inductees/the_drifters.html

http://browneyedhandsomeman.blogspot.com/2007/07/original-drifters-come-to-rest-bill.html

http://www.originaldrifters.com/

Monday, January 21, 2008

Day 16: They Sold Me Out

Moving forward into the new season, the Cleveland Indians kicked off their Annual Winter Caravan on Monday. Amongst the fan question and answer and autograph sessions, the Indians also announced their promotional schedule. Featured giveaways this year are "Cy Cy Sabathia" and "Golden Grady" Bobbleheads and a Progressive Field cap. Progressive Field? Not Jacobs Field? Hmmmm, I believe I heard about this, but in all reality, these naming rights deals are all too common now and difficult to keep up with.

Wasn't Jacobs field recently built? What happened to Jacob? It was easy and hip to say, "The Jake by the Lake." Now what? Anyone know the what the new nickname will be? US Cellular Field in Chicago is known as the "Cell" and Giants Stadium in SF is known as "The House that Balco" built (I just made that up, but I'm sure some people do already refer to it as that). It's changed so many times, that I'm not even sure what it is and quite frankly don't care. I'm thinking AT&T Park, but AT&T went out of business didn't it? Oh boy, its hard to be a advertising pimp in the city nowadays.

According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer web site, "...Jacobs Field, the Indians' home since it opened in 1994, officially became Progressive Field. Mayfield-based Progressive Corp., the nation's third-largest auto insurer, bought rights to the name, agreeing to pay about $3.6 million per year for the next 16 years."

Get accustomed to seeing the emblem. Besides naming rights, the agreement was sweetened with radio and television advertising, Progressive's new title as the team's official insurer and signs in and outside the ballpark.

Most visible will be a new Progressive Field sign on the scoreboard above the script "Indians." And, of course, the stadium's marquee sign at the corner of Ontario Street and Carnegie Avenue will be changed. The team hopes to preserve the Jacobs Field marquee in some way, but plans were uncertain Friday, a spokesman said.

Club executives said they hoped to have the big signs up by the home opener on March 31 against the Chicago White Sox, but some adjustments could take until the All-Star break.

Nearly 1,000 signs and other items will have to be changed, which the team estimated will cost about $1.2 million. Beyond that other minor expenses, naming-rights deals are essentially pure profit.

..................................................

After reading that nearly 1,000 signs would need to be changed, I thought about making today's BSOD "Signs" by the Five Man Electrical Band, or Tesla. Maybe both, considering the field, like the song changed over time.

However seeing as Cash is King (not Johnny - although he was), I'm going with...

BSOD 16: They Sold Me Out
Artist: Van Morrison
Album: Magic Time
Released: May 2005

They Sold Me Out Lyrics

Sold me out for a few shekels and divided up my robes
They sold me out
It's the oldest story that's ever been told
They sold me out
Didn't even give it no shred of doubt, no, no
They sold me out
Didn't even sit down and try to figure it out
They just sold me out

For the few shekels more, they didn't even think twice
For a few shekels more, another minute in the spotlight

My own people did it to me just 'cos they could
They sold me out
So beware brother it could happen to you
They sold me out

For the few shekels more, they didn't even think twice
Just for a few shekels more, another minute of two in the spotlight

My own people did it to me just 'cos they could
They sold me out
Got to beware brother it just might happen to you
They sold me out
Sold me out for a few shekels and they divided up my robes
They sold me out
It's the oldest story that's ever been told
They sold me out
Sold me out for a few shekels and divided out my robes
They sold me out
It's the oldest story that's ever been known
They sold me out
They sold me out
They sold me out

Saturday, January 19, 2008

Day 15: Hot Cookin'

The off-season in baseball, specifically referring to the period of cold weather after the World Series and the starting of the free agency period and the Baseball Winter Meetings is often known as the "Hot Stove League". It's a period of time when its all talk and no action, as far as action on the field that is, but all action in regards to the recipes for success that the General Managers are cooking up, with each having their very own budget and list of potentially award winning dishes.

This past December, the Baseball Winter Meetings didn't produce the "big meal" that everyone was drooling for; the trade of starting pitcher Johan Santana of the Minnesota Twins. Rumors surfaced over and over of Johan going to the Yankees for Philip Hughes, Melky Cabrera, or Ian Kennedy, to Johan all but done and traded to the Red Sox for Jon Lester and / or Jacoby Ellsbury type package. As of today's date, he is still with the Twins, albeit the latest rumor is him going to the New York Mets.


A big meal was served up though in another fashion, when the Detroit Tigers acquired pitcher Dontrelle Willis and third baseman Miguel Cabrera from the Florida Marlins for outfielder Cameron Maybin, catcher Mike Rabelo and pitchers Andrew Miller, Burke Badenhop, Eulogio De La Cruz and Dallas Trahern.

Other notable spicy transactions were the Cubs adding some far East flavor in the form of two-time Japanese batting champion Kosuke Fukudome. The A’s trading Nick Swisher to the White Sox for Gio Gonzalez, Fautino De Los Santos and Ryan Sweeney. The Reds bringing in the encore to their meal with their dessert of closer Francisco Cordero, and the Padres hoping that a couple of leftovers in Mark Prior and Jim Edmonds will be able to return to their original fierce flavorings.


The flame on the stove might not be as hot as it was late last year, however you need to keep in mind that it's still burning and where there's heat, there's reason to believe there's something cooking.

BSOD 15: Hot Cookin'
Artist: G. Love & Special Sauce
Album: Lemonade
Released: August 2006


Hot Cookin' Lyrics

Won't you let the heat out of the oven
Lord it takes a while to build a fire
Don't let 'em cool you down, don't let 'em cool you down

Cause it's some hot cookin' that's going on tonight
And the temperature is rising just right
All I got to do is keep this fire burning bright
Think I might

Cause if you put the fuel into the fire
And you start a chain reaction
Which is burning me, toss and turning me through the night
The temperature is rising fast
The feeling's strong, I can't mask
It's two for you to melt into desire

Cause it's some hot cookin' that's going on tonight
And the temperature is rising just right
All I got to do is keep this fire burning bright
Think I might

My mama always said don't play with fire
Goin' to up and burn this whole house down
But I'm about to start this match and paper on fire
So you ???? on the ground

My fevers pitching and I'm not so sure
What I'm talking 'bout
I put my foot into my mouth
I don't know what I'm saying
Now is not the time for words
Forget all those things you heard
It's time for you to melt into the fire

Cause it's some hot cookin' that's going on tonight
And the temperature is rising just right
All I got to do is keep this fire burning bright
I think I might, yes I think I might
yes I think I might
ooo I think I might



Friday, January 18, 2008

Day 14: Auld Lang Syne Organ Mix - Final 2007 Out

Today's Baseball Song of the Day "Auld Lang Syne Organ Mix - Final 2007 Out" is in memoriam of the recently departed David Ramsey who died on Thursday at the age of 68. I never knew Mr. Ramsey, or heard him play specifically, but from what I can tell he brought a lot of cheer into the lives of people that knew him, or heard his work.

David was the longtime organist for the Memphis Redbirds starting in 1971 (STL Cardinals AAA Minor League affiliate), and then up until the middle of the 2007 season when he had to leave his position due to illness.

According to news from the Minor League Baseball web site ...

As the organist for Memphis baseball beginning in 1971 Ramsey saw over 2,000 home games, seven no-hit games, three championship teams and played at two ballparks. He outlasted 15 general managers, 14 radio announcers, 10 club presidents, seven ownership groups and seven major league affiliates.


........................................................................................................

BSOD 14: Auld Lang Syne Organ Mix - Final 2007 Out
Artist: Jeremy Boyer (current Redbirds organist)
Performed: 2007



David was also The Distinguished Service Professor of Music Emeritus of Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee.

From the Rhodes College web site ...

“David Ramsey was so important to the life of this congregation,” said the Rev. C.V. “Bo” Scarborough, pastor of First Presbyterian Church. “He taught this congregation so much. He made our music joyful, even fun. I know many think church music isn’t supposed to be fun, but it has been with David. And, of course, we had visitors who really came in hope that David would play ‘Charge.’ He will be so missed here.

Many Memphians know him as the organist for the old Memphis Blues baseball club, later the Memphis Chicks, and now the Memphis Redbirds, where, from the organ above and behind home plate at AutoZone Park, he matched the music to the moment, stoking the fans’ enthusiasm throughout every game.

“Baseball and life around the ballpark is all about the people we meet, work with and get to know,” Redbirds President/GM Dave Chase said. “I first worked with David in 1979, my second season in baseball, at McCarver Stadium with the Chicks. From that time forward David was always quick with a smile and a heartfelt ‘How are you doing.’ I missed him last season and will always remember him when I walk through the press box and see the ballpark organ sitting primed for another game, another season—but without our friend, David.”

Before Ramsey became a baseball organist, he kept the scoreboard for the home games. He also operated the scoreboard for Rhodes home football and men’s and women’s basketball games for more than 30 years.

Click here to read more about his life. God Bless.

Day 13: Catfish

It's a Friday Night Fish Fry and today's special is the "Million Dollar Catfish." A steep price to pay sure, but when you see what you get, it's well worth it. It's all you can devour and it's coming to you freshly caught from North Carolina, via some circuitous routes of Kansas City (A's), Oakland (A's), and New York (Yankees). This ain't the farm raised stuff that Mr. Finley tried to buy and sell cheap, this is the genuine mucker, a catfish born to be free and fighting his way through anyone or anything that gets in his way.


Today's Baseball Song of the Day is "Catfish" by Bob Dylan. Unreleased until his box set "the bootleg series volumes 1-3", this twangy back-stream song saunters its way through, lazily and properly describing Catfish" Hunter, who was elected into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1978. Catfish won 20 games five years in a row, was an eight time All Star, won five World Series, was the "Pitcher of the Year" and American League Cy Young Award winner in 1974. As a side dish, Catfish served up a "Perfect Game" in 1968, at the age of 22.

Due to complications from ALS, Catfish died at the age of 53. Please consider donating to ALS (link at bottom).

From the ALS Association; Jim "Catfish" Hunter Chapter's web site
:
http://www.catfishchapter.org/ourchapter/tribute.html

“Catfish” wasn’t always “Catfish.” To his older brothers and high school teammates, he was just “Jimmy.”

He never played in the minor leagues. When he was recruited out of high school by the owner of the Kansas City Athletics’s (soon to become the Oakland A’s), Charlie O. Finley said, “Do you have a nickname?” Catfish said, "No." Mr Finley said, "What do you like to do?" Catfish: "Hunting and fishing." Finley: "You ran away from home when you were six to go fishing. You caught two catfish and were bringing in the third when they finally found you. That's your nickname. Now, repeat it back to me."

....................................................................................................................................

BSOD 13: Catfish
Artist: Bob Dylan
Album: The Bootleg Series Vols. 1-3
Released: March 1991

Catfish Lyics

Lazy stadium night
Catfish on the mound.
"Strike three," the umpire said,
Batter have to go back and sit down.

Catfish, million-dollar-man,
Nobody can throw the ball like Catfish can.

Used to work on Mr. Finley's farm
But the old man wouldn't pay
So he packed his glove and took his arm
An' one day he just ran away.

Catfish, million-dollar-man,
Nobody can throw the ball like Catfish can.

Come up where the Yankees are,
Dress up in a pinstripe suit,
Smoke a custom-made cigar,
Wear an alligator boot.

Catfish, million-dollar-man,
Nobody can throw the ball like Catfish can.

Carolina born and bred,
Love to hunt the little quail.
Got a hundred-acre spread,
Got some huntin' dogs for sale.

Catfish, million-dollar-man,
Nobody can throw the ball like Catfish can.

Reggie Jackson at the plate
Seein' nothin' but the curve,
Swing too early or too late
Got to eat what Catfish serve.

Catfish, million-dollar-man,
Nobody can throw the ball like Catfish can.

Even Billy Martin grins
When the Fish is in the game.
Every season twenty wins
Gonna make the Hall of Fame.

Catfish, million-dollar-man,
Nobody can throw the ball like Catfish can.


Please consider donating to the ALS Associaton to help find a cure in Catfish Hunter's name.



click here to donate: http://www.catfishchapter.org/help/donating.html




Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Day 12: Pump Up the Volume

Yesterday the Chicago Cubs announced that they have signed Jon Leiber to a one year contract worth a bunch million dollars. In announcing the acquisition, General Manger Jim Hendry said, "We're trying to get as much volume as we can, depth-wise, in the rotation to make it more competitive in camp. We're trying to accumulate as many quality pitchers as we can. We think he adds a lot still to our club."

This would be Leiber's second time around pitching for the Cubs. He last pitched for them during the 1999-2002 seasons, and is the last Cub's pitcher to win 20 games in a season. Leiber was well liked by the players and fans and like an old record that needs another listen, I guess the Cubs' decided to click the "repeat" button on him.

The old baseball adage is you can never have enough "good" pitching, and with Zambrano, Lilly, Hill, Marquis, Dempster, Marshall, Hart, and Guzman, Mr. Hendry's statement of "We're trying to get as much volume as we can..." is indeed in play. Now, whether or not they're "good" is a whole other topic.

Some days, you hear a song, and you just can't get it out of your head. Some songs have such an unique sound that even twenty years later, the mention of one single word, "volume" can trigger something in your memory.

Such is the case for "Pump up the Volume" today's BSOD. Released in 1987, with their hip-hop sampling stylings, "Pump up the Volume" made it to the #1 spot in UK, and #13 on the USA Billboard's single's chart.

BSOD 12: Pump Up the Volume
Artist: M|A|R|R|S / (Colourbox)
Album: (released as a single)
Released: 1997



pump up the volume
pump up the volume

pump up the volume
pump up the volume

brothers and sisters
pump up the volume
we're gonna need you

brothers and sisters
pump up the volume
pump that baby

brothers and sisters
pump up the volume
we're gonna need you

brothers and sisters
pump up the volume
pump pump it ay

rock the house
rock the house

ah yea
ah yea

do it
do it do it

yea yea
yea yea

boogie down bo bo boogie down
boogie down

here we go, c'mon

do it
do it
do it

pump up the volume
pump up the volume
pump up the volume
dance dance

rythmic, systemic and world control
magnetic, genetic, dement your soul
rythmic, systemic and world control
magnetic, genetic, dement your soul
rythmic, systemic and world control
magnetic, genetic, dement your soul
rythmic, systemic and world control
magnetic, genetic, dement your soul

put the needle on the record
put the needle on the record
put the needle on the record
put the needle on the record
put the needle on the record
when the song beats go like this

pump up the volume
pump up the volume
pump up the volume
dance dance

mars
needs
women

mars
needs
women

Day 11: I'll Show You a Thing or Two

Five years ago today, Major League Baseball owners established a minimum age of 14 for bat boys. Previously, there was no minimum age required to be a bat boy. This change came coming off the 2002 World Series in which there was a near collision at home plate involving the son of the San Francisco Giants Manager Dusty Baker. Four year old Darren Baker, ran out to grab OF Kenny Lofton's bat after Lofton hit a triple to right center field. J.T. Snow and David Bell were both on base when Lofton hit the ball and Snow rounding third and coming home, quickly grabbed Darren and carried him out of the way to protect him from any collision from himself or Bell at home plate.

Quotes from USA Today
10/24/2002

"He wanted to get out there so quickly," the elder Baker said. "He had been arguing with the other batboys as to who would get Kenny Lofton's bat. When I got back to the clubhouse, the first call I got was from my mom. And she said I better thank J.T."


"I saw a little flash, and I knew it was him," Snow said. "I have a 4 1/2-year-old, so I know how to reach them when they're trying to get away. I grabbed him by the neck of his jacket and carried him away. His eyes were huge. I don't think he knew what was going on."

..................................................................................................................................................

Today's Baseball Song of the Day is from Bat Boy the Musical, which is about a Weekly World News story about a half boy / half bat who was found living in a cave. The story got the attention of writers Keythe Farley and Brian Flemming who then penned it for a stage adaptation, and from there it went on to become a musical which premiered on Halloween in 1997.



BSOD 11: I'll Show You a Thing or Two
Artist: Cast Recording
Album: Bat Boy: The Musical
Released: 2001

A snippet of the lyrics from "I'll Show You a Thing or Two"

DR.PARKER: Perhaps I should have a word with the boy.
Let me talk to him over here for a moment!
I'll show you a thing or two. Sure, kid, you feel weary.
Head's all fuzzy and bleary.
I know you're leery. But here's my theory.
Keep sluggin'- that's how it's done.
Soon you're bound to break through!
And whaddaya know, you may-

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Day 10: Johnny Podres Has A Halo Round His Head

With the passing of Johnny Podres on Sunday at the age of 75 - the first player to be awarded the MVP of a World Series, we thought we'd list today's Baseball Song of the Day in memoriam.

From MLB.com & Associated Press:

The left-hander was picked for four All-Star games and was the first Most Valuable Player in World Series history. He became a hero to every baseball fan in Brooklyn when the Dodgers ended decades of frustration by beating the Yankees to win the World Series.

It was the first time a team had won a best-of-seven World Series after losing the first two games, and it was Brooklyn's only World Series victory. The Dodgers moved to Los Angeles after the 1957 season.

The Dodgers lost the first two games of at Yankee Stadium, then the Dodgers won the third 8-3 at Ebbets Field. Podres, going the distance on his 23rd birthday, scattered seven hits.

In the climactic seventh game, at Yankee Stadium, Podres shut out New York 2-0 on eight hits, relying on his fastball and a deceptive changeup.

As the story goes, Podres told his teammates to get him just one run and the Dodgers would win Game 7. They got him two, and the franchise celebrated its first and only championship while playing in Brooklyn.

Years later, Podres was uncertain he made such a brash statement.

"I don't know if I said it or not. That's what they said I said," a grinning Podres recalled in 2005. "Probably young and dumb -- something like that would haunt you your whole life. ... You put on a big league uniform, you've got to think you're pretty good."

Tommy Byrne, the losing pitcher in that game, died Dec. 20.

Podres' career spanned 15 years with the Dodgers in Brooklyn and Los Angeles, the Detroit Tigers and San Diego Padres. He retired in 1969 at age 36 with a lifetime record of 148-116.

Podres also served as a pitching coach when he was older, helping develop Frank Viola when he was with the Minnesota Twins and Curt Schilling when he was on the Philadelphia Phillies staff.

.............................................................................................................

From the Post-Star
January 14, 2008

"Podres, who usually went home right after the season, stayed in Brooklyn for the next couple of months.

He was introduced in the audience of the Ed Sullivan show, appeared as a guest on the TV show "What’s My Line," did an appearance on the "Steve Allen Show" and appeared with Jackie Robinson and Duke Snider on the "Today" show, hosted by Dave Garroway.

"What a great life that was that winter," Podres told The Post-Star in 1995. "I was a big deal."

.............................................................................................................

After his success in the World Series, a song was quickly created in his honor. From what we can gather here at BSOD, from research that led us to the Global Dog Productions web site, Jubilee Records released the song in 1955. The song was released as a 45 and possibly also as a 78 recording as well. The "a" side of the vinyl was, "Has a Halo Round His Head" and the "b" side was "Temper is a Terrible Thing."

We have not been privy to listen to a copy of the song, nor have found a link or a version to it on any web site to date. However, we have found a few lines of what looks to be the lyrics on this site:

http://mozartzbitch.livejournal.com/

Johnny Podres Has a Halo Round His Head Lyrics

Johnny brought the crowd to Ebbet's Field at last
No more wait 'til next year! No! Next is passed!
Casey's mighty men struck men struck out
You can hear all Brooklyn shout,
"Johnny Podres has a halo 'round his head.

Monday, January 14, 2008

Day 9: Migratory Birds

I heard about the possible trade of third-basemen before most. Walking outside my house, the screech of the blue jay was loud, alerting me that something was about to happen. Over and over again, until I took notice. Then having spotted him...he flew South. In his place another bird came into view. Flying North with a somewhat akward flight pattern as if one of the wings were bent, and against the white canvas of snow, its easy to spot the bright red of the male Cardinal.

Today's Baseball Song of the Day; "Migratory Birds" from the Nethers, opens like a gentle breeze..and slowly builds with drums and guitar joining the haunting sounds of the vocalist.

(Note: listen by choosing track #9 - Migratory Birds)





It was announced on ESPN over the weekend, that two birds of a feather were going to be traded across the Canadian border, with the Blue Jays sending Troy Glaus to the Cardinals for Scott Rolen.

The trade at first seems similar to the song in many ways. At first, it seems soft and quiet. Nothing special. Both players, in the middle of their playing careers, both players, saddled with injuries and problems. But hidden in there, as time moves on, you feel that there's more involved, more levels to the performance, much more to enjoy, if we only give it a chance.

Rolen, 31, a seven time gold glove winner, is coming off of a recent World Series win with the Cardinals in 2006, however due to injuries and personality conflicts, his recent performance just hasn't blossomed. He welcomed a trade to another team. Glaus, 32, and has a career total of 277 HR's and a World Series win in 2002, had season ending surgery this past September, and has had accusations of receiving performance enhancing drugs via mail in the past.

However, sometimes a change of scenery helps all involved and in the case of these two, one can only hope that in the end, that all ornithologists will enjoy watching these two in their new surroundings.

BSOD 9: Migratory Birds
Artist: Nethers
Album: In Fields We Will Lie
Released: June 2006

Note: lyrics incomplete...as we could not immediately find the full text of them

And in the end I will wake up in the afternoon
the way the sunlight fills up through the room
To make the waking moments bright
Kiss goodbye the old night

Oh my mind wanders through both time and space
Its there I find myself, the perfect place
To sit and dream about the time
Not so long
You were mine

Fly my dear ...toward the night
where it's bright
and ....

Sunday, January 13, 2008

Day 8: The Ball Game: Life is a Ballgame

It's a lazy Sunday, time to go to church and say your peace before your Umpire and God. In that regards, today's Baseball Song of the Day is simple and straight-forward. Today's song is "The Ball Game" originally written and sang by Sister Wynona Carr back in 1952.

We're listing two versions of this song, one by Sister Wynona Carr, and the other an updated version by "The Kings of A Capella"; The Persuasions. Like most classics, the original, in its raw form is a thing of beauty, and although its difficult to compare players across decades, both of these version hold up terrific for the times that they were released and thereafter.

Discovered by Frank Zappa and his wife circa 1968, The Persuasions have performed for over 40 years, have opened for Ray Charles, Bill Cosby, and Richard Pryor amongst others, and performers such as Bruce Springsteen and Rosanne Barr have even opened for them.

Enjoy Folks!!

BSOD 8: The Ball Game (Life is a Ballgame)
Artist: The Persuasions
Album: Sincerely
Released: 1996

Life is a Ballgame Lyrics

Life is a ballgame
Bein' played each day
Life is a ballgame
Everybody can play

Jesus is standin' at home plate
Waitin' for you there
Life is a ballgame, but
You've got to play it fair.

First base is temptation,
The second base is sin
Third base tribulation
If you pass you can make it in

Ol' man Solomon is the umpire
And Satan is pitchin the game
He'll do his best to strike you out
Keep playin' just the same.

Daniel was the first to bat
You know he prayed three times a day
When Satan threw him a fast ball
You know he hit it anyway

Job came in the next inning
Satan struck him in every way,
But job he hit a home run
And came on in that day.

Prayer will be your strong bat
To hit at Satan's ball
And when you start to swing it
You've got to give it your all in all

Faith will be your catcher
On him you can depend
And Jesus is standing at Home Plate
Just waitin for you to come in.

Moses is standin' on the side lines
Just waitin to be called
And when he parted the Red Sea
He gave Christ is all-in-all

John came in the last inning
When the game was almost don
Then God gave John a vision

And he knew he'd all ready won




Take a look at a clip from the Persuasions in this clip with a young Maury Povich






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