Home Run Derby - Brent Rooker Cheated!

[philliesfan]

Did Rooker run out of balls or time? I seem to remember that time ran out on him......but I was only watching passively.
Either way, a swing off would have been better. Give the fans more of what they want.
Bob

[gonefishin]

Rooker was told he had 2 practice balls that didn't count toward the 40. He used the 2 balls, but replacements were not provided. He had approximately 5 seconds left, ran out of balls, and only had 38 thrown to him for the competition.

Valid points regarding who did what to whom. Whether it's MLB, the owner, fans, whomever - the Athletics have had a tough time the last couple of years and maybe a couple more ahead. Then off to Vegas - I wish them well.

I actually feel sorry for the Athletic fans more than anyone. I live in San Diego and have always cheered for the Chargers (until they moved to LA) and the Padres. I also own a 1974 Topps Washington Padres card just to remind me how close it was they almost left. I know what it's like having a small market team trying to compete. If you're a Yankees fan or a Dodgers fan - that's great.

Oakland has lost the Raiders and now has lost the Athletics. Can they cheer for the Giants and 49ers? Of course. Do they want to - absolutely not.

Is it about the money for the Athletics? Absolutely. Is having a 25% chance to win a million dollars lost because one competed on an uneven playing field? Absolutely.

Thanks for the observations and comments.

[philliesfan]

I just rewatched the Rooker bats. There were only 3 seconds left when the pitcher reached in for another ball. That would have been time for only one more pitch. No telling what would have happened if he would have homered or not. But a swing off would have been the best way to decide.
I have also become an A's fan. Watch out for them next year.

Bob

[gonefishin]

Originally Posted by philliesfan

I just rewatched the Rooker bats. There were only 3 seconds left when the pitcher reached in for another ball. That would have been time for only one more pitch. No telling what would have happened if he would have homered or not. But a swing off would have been the best way to decide.
I have also become an A's fan. Watch out for them next year.

Bob

Thanks Bob, and you're right on both counts.

The game is over and really was different from a regular season game, but it's just an exhibition and a chance to honor players; past, present and future.

Again, I was happy for Rooker and he performed well. He definitely got the AL kick started with the 3 run blast.

I'm actually looking forward to the second half to see how they gel and come together. They've definitely got a lot of talent.