That Balls Outta Here » Buster Olney

Cole Hamels Being Shopped Around in Theory, Reports No One and Everyone

Justin Klugh — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 13:30:29 +0000

Buster Olney threatened to trade Cole Hamels (Insider required) the other day, and boy, the internet did not like the sound of it. He ran with the notion that the Phillies and Cole hadn’t been talking about his contract.

Well, la-dee-da; somebody’s parents spoke to them every day and without snorts of disappointment. Maybe if your childhood had been a tad less ideal, Buster, you’d be of use in a situation like this. Just because the Phillies and Cole aren’t talking doesn’t mean something bad is happening. They still love each other, they’re just taking the last ten years before you go to college to work up the nerve to say it.

Geeze. (more…)

Cliff Lee Signs With Phillies So Mets Will Be Great in Two Years

Justin Klugh — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 22:00:58 +0000

“I’ve been trying to convince some friends who are Mets fans that the Cliff Lee signing is good for New York, in the big picture. Here’s the logic: The Mets are probably not going to be very good in 2011, and maybe even 2012. So, by 2013, when the Mets theoretically have rebuilt themselves into a contender, Lee will be 35 years old and the Phillies could have a roster top-heavy with older and more expensive players.”

–Buster Olney

Okay, so. Here’s my thing. Look, the Mets suck. I don’t even have to say that anymore. Mets fans would agree with me. It’s like just saying the word “Mets,” there’s an implication of the phrase “suck.” (more…)

Brad Lidge Gives Up 3-Run HR, Gets Win

Justin Klugh — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 05:05:24 +0000

The undoing of Brad Lidge happens in a cycle, and tonight, we witnessed the precious ecosystem that is Lidge’s serious ball-dropping of games in the ninth. For your pleasure, we have included the evolution of the process.

A BRAD LIDGE BLOWN SAVE TOLD VIA TWITTER

1. First, we are calm. Phils are up 6-3, bottom nine. The day’s humidity is gone. Work is not until tomorrow. You successfully locked your Roommate out on the patio (finally!) Everything’s cool.

2. When it is revealed that Brad Lidge will be our closer for the final inning. We are hopeful.

3. With two outs and no one on, suddenly gives up a tragic three run home run to tie the game. A desolate silence rolls over the audience.

4. Zolecki tells us what’s up...

5. … and the inevitable first stone is thrown…

6. … and then I try to join in on the fun but just come across as confused.

(more…)