Results tagged ‘ Garrett Atkins ’
I Aint Joking..Lets Stop this Choking
9/24/09 Padres vs Rockies Game 3
I guess I’m not much of a Ballhawk. My stats this year are pathetic. I’m averaging less than a ball a game and that’s barely noteworthy.
I don’t think I’m slipping. I still catch ‘em as good as I ever have. Actually I’m much better this year at maneuvering the pavilion bleachers and I’ve managed to keep myself injury free.
Everybody has an excuse so here’s what I’m going to attribute this lackluster snaggin season to:
The Rain…. If I attend a game and there’s no batting practice or batting practice is cancelled due to weather that still counts as a game attended and no baseballs caught,…yep it’s sad but true.
I’ve lost count of the number of BP’s that have been cancelled or cut seriously short due to rain or lightning.
Here’s another disturbing trend….Lately the Rockies have been cutting their BP short. Coors Field opens two hours early but by the time fans get inside the Rockies have already been out practicing for a while.
Normally fans who show up early get a half hour with the Rockies on the field.
This picture is of the Rockies leaving the field early. For the last several games the Rockies have been ending their BP shortly after I get myself situated.
I hope the Rockies don’t think I show up two hours early to watch the opposing team hit? 
Check this out, finally I get a rain free afternoon and for the most part batting practice is deserted (remember it’s the Padres). My team leaves BP early (for the umpteenth time) and lets the uninspiring Padres take over the field.
No offense to Padre fans but in my opinion there is not a stingier group of MLB players in all of baseball. It wouldn’t matter so much if they were littering the pavilion with home run balls, but for a team who has had the Rockies number of late these group of guys couldn’t seem to hit a ball anywhere close to the fence.
Whatever Padres, be that way. Credit where credit is due…I will congratulate the Padres for their recent hot streak. Too bad it doesn’t mean anything now. We’re done with you, see you next year.
(I hate losing to the Padres at Coors).
A ballhawk’s worst nightmare… A whole section to myself and not one single ball hit there.
Normally I don’t take pictures during BP, but this one was a bust so here’s a few.
For some reason Jorge De La Rosa was all smiles.
See what I mean. I don’t think I have any other pictures of Jorge smiling.
Still smiling, must have been a good joke.
Or maybe Jorge was laughing at Ubaldo’s sunglasses.
If you played professional baseball you could afford the cooler things in life like these special sunglasses. They actually snap into your ears and are guaranteed to never to fall off 
After BP or the lack thereof, I walked over to the Rockies side to take a few more pictures and maybe snag Garrett Atkins or Brad Hawpe’s autograph.
Today I saw Chris Iannetta run past the fans and not sign. He (so I thought) has a pre-game ritual and always signs for a few minutes before he heads off to warm-up. Sup with that Chris, why are you breaking routine?
First to walk over and start signing was pitching coach Bob Apodaca…Very nice guy, signs his whole name and takes his time while doing it.
Next up is one of the coolest and easiest to talk to Rockies players….Clint Barmes.
A group Coors field employees were being recognized for something. Erik Young Jr was given the assignment of congratulaing each one of them.
Check out this lady…Either EY Jr tickled her palm or he told her the same joke Jorge was laughing at earlier.
A shot of the 850 KOA helicopter hovering above Coors Field.
Miss Colorado’s were in the house.
I didnt’ realize there were so many variations of Miss Colorado.
Garrett Atkins for my friend Emily 
Tulo and Seth Smith…Each a superstar this season. No time to be resting on our accomplishments though, this season isn’t over yet.
If you’ve ever wondered how they make those rectangles so perfect…now you know.
I respect both of these guys too much to bust on them so come up with your own caption for this picture. You can post it in the comment section if you’d like. 
I’ll let Atkins slide too.
EY Jr taking on first pitch duties. I wonder where Jeff Francis is? Normally that’s his job.
Told you that goatee would be back soon.
Here’s Helton is doing his thing.
Chris seemed out of it. Maybe it’s because Yorvit’s having a great season?
Tulo and Don Baylor.
These ladies need to practice this maneuver because they damn sure haven’t mastered it yet.
What’s up with Glenallen Hill’s hair? Did he lose a bet? I know the 80′s are coming back but damn Gumby.
One of many pitching changes during this game.
Bases loaded.
This game sucked. Padres win this one 5-4 and take the series 2-1.
It pains me to watch this team drop the ball like this so late in the season when everything is on the line.
Look out for the Braves, they’re creeping up on us and have a lot of home games left. At this point we don’t have to panic but lets not continue lose games to teams that we should be spanking.
Rockies it’s time to kick it into high gear.
I know your tired, at times it’s quite visible. The last couple weeks of the season is what separates the men from the boys and I don’t go to Coors field to watch boys play baseball.
Step it up fellas, I’m starting to see a smugness in some of the Rockies players and I don’t like that. Remember, the only reason you get to play this sport for a living is because we the fans pay to see you.
Note to the higher salaried Rockies players….Lose the fu*king attitudes. I know the difference between confident and smug and unless you’re Todd Helton you haven’t been playing long enough to have one.
Stop this recent half-steppin, respect your fans and give them some love back, focus, play hard and win some games and we might not look like chumps in the post-season this time.
Go Rockies, I still believe and I’m here to keep your azzes grounded…D
I’d like to say thank you to Jim from Utah who offered me his code to buy tickets for the NLDS series. Unfortunately, you had to purchase for all three games at once and the only seats left were the expensive ones. This Ranter doesn’t make that kind of money…But that was a mighty kind thing to do.
The streak is broke, now I’m stoked
9/1/09 Mets vs Rockies Game 1
If you’ve never smoked before and you live in the front range of Colorado you were a smoker yesterday. The smoke from the California fires was thick and for once there wasn’t any rain to wash it away.
Hunter was with me today and we were ready for some batting practice. The weather has been cruel to us this season as far as batting practice goes.
Hunter and I were itching to get in side and start scratching , catching some balls 
Hunter was the first to enter the Pavilion and I headed over to “my area”. By the time I reached “my area” there were a couple of younger dudes inhabiting it. I quickly found another spot.
I looked over and saw Hunter running up to me all excited. He had just found his first Coors Field Easter egg.
Easter Egg = A ball just lying there when you get inside.
The ball was lying at the base of the pavilion and he was the first to stumble across it.
I’ve yet to find an easter egg.
I’m sure the Rockies knock several baseballs into the pavilion before they open the gates for Coors Field. I wonder what happens to those baseballs?
Do the Ushers keep them?
I’d be ok with that. Ushers stand for hours and get paid minimally.
Or do they just toss them back onto the field?
Maybe, if I ever discover the answer I’ll let you know. Another one of baseball’s mysteries.
As for me…”The Pavilion Poacher, “The Sultan of Snatch“ I got diddly squat. I had play on several homers but the dude who initially adopted my spot ended up with my two.
I’ve noticed that none of you have commented on my hair I’m growing it for several reasons.
1. The economy. Haircuts are expensive.
2. I live in Nederland, it’s ok here.
3. Helton hasn’t cut his so I’m following his trend.
Thanks for not asking. I’ll be sure and keep you posted,…frequently
Mile High welcome to Jason Giambi. Giambi had no hits tonight but was walked on his first and only at-bat.
I’ll keep the picture show short today.
Carlos Gonzalez launched a ball into the second deck. He doesn’t look big enough to do that.
The stretch.
The DEA is on to me so I’ve been having trouble finding quality crack for the “Coors Field Crack of the Game”. So I’ll have fill-in awards until more “Crack” is discovered.
The award for today’s game is for “The Best Use of Purple“.
The next award is for the “Best Costume of the Game“. This dude was in the pavilion with a suit on. I can’t tell you how wrong that is.
Next thing you know you’ll have the likes of me sitting in Club Level..ewwww!
Quite possible the best picture I took tonight that didn’t come in a pair.
Garrett Atkins,…. it wasn’t his fault the throw was way to late.
Yorvit Torealba
Superstar Seth Smith
Atkins
The tag on his shirt says “Tip me or die of thirst”. To quote
Earth’s own words…”Aint no sissy sippin here” :)
The moon and stars were aligned tonight and the Rockies get the win over Mets at Coors in front of 26,190.
The majority of the crowd here tonight were glad to see this win.
Remember folks it only takes one win to end a streak and begin a new one.
Oh here’s one more…I call this video the ”Coors Field Sprinkler Guy“.
You’re welcome
It’s my job to keep you aware of the freaks of society…I love my job.
My name is D The Rockpile Ranter. Coors Field is my 2nd home and nobody is safe.
I’ll be at the Game 2 in a few hours..D
I’m Back and the Pirates get High-Jacked
6/21/09 Pirates vs Rockies Game 3
Happy Father’s Day to all of you who have done the deed.
Dad you once told me the older I get the smarter you get. I understand now.
I hope all you dads enjoyed your special day. I did. My father’s day gift was attending the Rockies/Pirates game with my family.
Today was autograph Sunday and the four players assigned signing duties were Carlos Gonzalez, Seth Smith, Yorvit Torrealba and Dexter Fowler.
I opted for Torrealba because of the four he was the one I was still seeking.
Yorvit was cool and signed Mylee and Hunter’s bats and my baseball on the sweet spot.
My baseball
Thank you Yorvit!
We could have snagged another autograph but the Pirates were taking batting practice and I loves me some sunny BP.
Hunter and I hurried back to the Pavilion to salvage what was left of BP.
The only real opportunity I had to snag one was shortly after I reached the pavilion. It sailed two feet over my head, bounced and I was slow on the snatch up by a second.
Hunter and Mylee were shutout too.
No worries, today was about some much needed sunshine and a Rockies win.
We were treated to both and it was a fitting ending to a day well spent hanging with my family and friends.
I have to bring attention to a guy who clearly deserves it. One of the unwritten rules of baseball snagging is that if a player tosses up a ball intended for a specific kid and the kid drops that ball. Whoever picks up that ball in all good conscience should give the ball back to the kid.
This fine fellow snatched up and pocketed a ball that a little girl dropped. I don’t see that too much at Coors as most BP regulars “Get it”.
Mr. Mustache here clearly does not. So for that thoughtful move he is the winner of The Rant’s newest award:
DOOZE BAG OF THE DAY
Here’s the video of it.
Congrats buddy, way to make a little girls day J
I ran into R-Luv/Marianne, her son Joe and husband at batting practice.
They were enjoying the game from the first row today and were able to go onto the field for the autograph session.
So glad you were able to see a Rockies win and it was very cool to see you all again.
Thanks for the gift. Best seats in the house.J
We left the Stadium to enjoy cheese steaks for lunch and returned just as the game was starting. Krista and the kids headed off to the Rockpile and I did my loop of the stadium taking pictures along the way.
Just doing what I do, somebody has to:)
Credit to this fella, nice hat brotha!
Jorge De La Rosa not quite on time here but did his part to ensure a Rockies win.
Brad Hawpe
Ryan Spilborghs was on it today. Must be the performance enhancing sunglasses .
Troy Tulowitzki
Coming home
Ian Stewart
Catcher Paul Phillips
Another one of Jorge.
Garrett Atkins covered first base today.
Got him!
I like this picture.
Almost a full house today. Lots of daddies around.
Best haircut of the game.
Hottie of the game.
Tulo
Phillips not quite there.
Dexter Fowler
Fowler not even close to being tagged out.
Seemed like he hurt his knee on this play. Hope he is ok.
The Dragonslayer Josh Fogg
Great game, Rockies win 5-4 and are now 16 of 17. That’s flippin amazing.
Thanks for all the kind emails I have received recently. Sorry about the lack of blog entries. It’s not just the internet issue. I have to finish a few things before the end of the month and they are priority.
Glad I could toss this entry your way. Thanks for remembering this Ranter…D
Didn’t miss it by a foot, it hit my foot
5/13/09
Something had to change from the previous game. Over a dozen missed opportunities to snag a ball. Being right there, so close and having to back off at the last second because someone else happened to be sitting in the perfect position to catch the ball.
Some days it just beez that way, but not today. My first ball was a toss up from Ubaldo Jimenez. Originally I thought it was for Hunter (and it may have been) but he overshot Hunter by 15 feet or so and I nabbed it.
The second ball I snagged was hit by Dexter Fowler I tracked perfectly. The ball bounced off the tip of my glove, deflected onto a bleacher and landed right in front of me. I reached down quickly and nabbed my own blown catch.
It was game on from there. The next two were gloved perfectly and within 15 feet of each other. Chris Iannetta hit one of them.
One was a practice ball and the other ball was one I had been waiting for.
I finally nabbed a 2008 All-Star ball.
No big deal to some snaggers as most of you probaly have one, but it was my first.
A teenage girl asked me for it. I told her she could have a ball but not that one. I reached into my backpack and gave her the practice ball.
Rockies left then the Astros were up and within a few minutes I was tracking another ball. I followed this ball as it sailed about mid-way up the bleachers.
I turned then tripped over the bleacher and caught the ball as I was falling down backwards. It wasn’t pretty (more funny), but I caught that sucker.
I gave that ball to the brother of the teenage girl I had handed the other ball too. That family left happy.
Ball six was about thirty minutes into Astros BP and was a quick dash to the right and perfect catch on the run.
Just as batting practice was about to end some big white guy crushed one out to mid-pavilion about 2/3 of the way up and I was on it perfectly.
At the last second I realized I was up one row too high and I missed as it landed perfectly under the bleacher directly on top my foot.
White flash, ouch, oh sheet don’t act stupid Don everyone is looking. Hide the pain because nobody saw it hit your foot.
The whole thing was hidden by the bleacher. Had I danced around in pain people would have wondered what the F’ck was wrong with me so I had to act somewhat normal.
Man, I couldn’t even swear. Me not swearing, I impressed myself.
It was a perfect shot. My first instinct after the white flash was to get that damn ball and as I reached for it a kid in a Rockies jersey scooped it up. I was like “What the” and when I looked up it was Hunter.
It was his only ball of the day and I was glad he got it.
Afterwards we did have a discussion about him not snaggin so close to me and how I don’t like competing against my son for baseballs that I bobble.
I think it looks silly he and I chasing after the same ball,…but anyways.
It was at that point I noticed my shoe was getting tight. That’s not good.
The ball that landed on my foot just happened to have a big H on it.
Some may say that “H” stands for Houston. I don’t think so. I say it stand for “Hurts like Hell” when it smacks you in the foot full force.
My foot throbbed for about 20 minutes and then it went numb.
I figure if you’re going to get hit with a pitch you want it to be in the meaty part of your body. On most people there’s no meat on top of your foot. This type of BP injury was a first for me and hopefully the last. I’ve got almost two weeks to heal up.
After BP we went over to the Rockies side and tried to get some autographs.
Unfortunately were kind of late and were standing in the wrong place for Todd Helton.
Glenallen Hill and Jeff Francis. Hill is looking at me like he remembers me from Spring Training. My favorite line from Hill in Tucson was “What you guys do with all those autographs?” 
Hurdle and Francis
Francis gets the first pitch duties on a regular basis.
That is one happy kid.
Everybody was happy, at least before the game started.
Marquis warming up before the game.
Best haircut of the game. In case you’ve never seen one, this particular hairstyle is know as a Mullet. Very popular in the 80′s but now is usually only found in the deep south.
Southerners do travel and when I get a chance to photograph a rare haircut like this I just cant resist.
This ones a beauty
The Mullet… business in the front, party in the back.
Marquis first pitch.
His second pitch.
Tulo
Ian Stewart had a Grand Slam yesterday and another homer today.
Brad Hawpe tracking a baseball.
Another
Todd Helton at bat.
Spilborghs getting ready.
Helton out at first.
Garrett Atkins proving that white men can jump.
Tulo in action.
Atkins ready to go.
First off if you’re brave/man enough to wear a pink shirt, your picture makes this blog. But the fact he was standing there talking to Bill Gates, well that’s seriously blog worthy.
Although wouldn’t you think Bill Gates would at least sit Club level?
Don’t you think the sweatshirt over the shoulders is a nice touch?
A shot of Dan, Emily and Ryan in the pavilion from my “chosen” seats which were along the first base line.
Dan’s daughter Emily was interviewed on Thursday’s game by Fox News and by Mark Stout of FSN.
I’ll post or link some video when I have it. That should be really cool.
The combination of having to work early the next day, my foot hurting like nobody’s business and the Rockies getting pummelled at home was enough to make me want to go home.
So we did.
I went home and put my foot up. No DL list for me, I’ll be ready by next homestand. Unless I broke a bone and then I’ll be there in a cast.
Final Score Astros 15, Rockies 11.
Coors Field Crack of the Game
Sorry it’s a little blurry, I was laughing
RPR’s Hagg’n Points for this Game
1 Point- For showing up.
15 points- For catching 5 balls on the fly.
2 points- For a toss up from Ubaldo Jimenez.
Total = 18 points
Hunters Hagg’n Points for this Game
1 point- For showing up
3 points- For snagging a ball on the bounce off of my size 12 shoe.
Total = 4 points
My next Rockies home game is Tuesday the 26th. Gotta give some props to my Denver Nuggets. I believed at the beginning of the season when everyone thought I was crazy. I’ve been somewhat silent about their success of late because I didn’t want to jinx anything.
This is the team, this is the Nuggets year, The Lakers are beatable and the Nuggets will do it…D
Phillies pay on Rockies Opening Day
4/10/09
Incredible, what a day! On my way to Coors Field I realized I forgot my glove. No joke, the first game and I left my glove at home. I turned around and went back and got it. I figured for sure that I’d blown my chance at a good place in line but lady luck was on my side.
We arrived at Coors about 11:10 AM and the gates opened at 12:00 PM.
As we were walking up I could see a huge line of people and my heart sunk. Upon closer inspection I realized the line was for people waiting to hopefully purchase Rockpile tickets.
We already had our tickets so my day was looking real good as there was nobody in line at the Rockpile gates. Always plan ahead you’ll be glad you did.
Number one like it should be.
They opened the gates and I was the first one through, As I worked my way over to the Pavilion I saw the Rockies out on the field and when I entered the bleachers I could only see one kid way on the other side of the Pavilion.
I worked my way down to field level and saw Jorge De La Rosa, Ubaldo Jimenez and Franklin Morales in the outfield chatting. A ball was hit to them and Jorge picked it up.
He looked into the bleachers and the only one standing there was me. I held up my glove, didn’t say a word and he tossed it to me. Just like that the Hagg’n begins.
Thanks Jorge for starting my season out right. Before Jorge tossed me that ball Helton had hit a BP homer and a kid had snagged it. The ball Jorge tossed me was the first baseball tossed to a fan at Coors Field this seaon. I also hold the honor of snagging the first baseball tossed to a fan during Game 1 of Rockies spring training in Tucson.
Not a huge thing but worth mentioning I figure.
The second baseball I snagged was kind of embarassing.
You know that fan that goes way overboard chasing a ball and winds up looking like an idiot.
I was that fan.
I was tracking a BP homer and had to lean over a row of bleachers and extend as far as I could to snag it. The ball hit my glove then rolled out and started rolling down the stairs.
I started stumbling over the bleachers in an attempt to snag that ball I dropped. About half way through chasing that ball I realized that I looked like a total moron.
So what do I do in that situation?
Do I stop right then and try and save my dignity, or realizing that I already looked stupid follow through and get the ball so I can say yeah I looked stupid but at least I got the ball?
I’m a Hagger so I chose to get the ball and take my critism. Nobody was harmed in the pursuit of the baseball, just my ego. Plus there’s always a witness when you don’t need one.
Anyways, that was ball two, Hagg’n is on baby.
While at batting practice I ran in to Marianne aka R-Luv, she was Hagg’n big and bad. She was going around getting pictures of the Ushers earning her Hagg’n points.
Here she is below taking pictures of her son with an Usher.
Dan and Emily were there, looked like Dan was handing out yummies but I didn’t get one??
Robert was at the game and I ran into Super Vendor Captain Earthman handing out his business cards.
Guess who else was at this game? My buddy Vinny Castilla was at the home opener.
Vinny, I thought you told me you weren’t a player?
If that’s the case, I guess I’m not a blogger who takes pictures of you.
Does it look like he’s flexing for the camera?
Here are some warm-up pictures of the Rockies.
Barmes and Stewart
Spilborghs and Fowler with the Military in the background.
Todd Helton ready to go.
Brad Hawpe in front of the Navy.
Spilborghs in front of the Air Force
Catcher Chris Iannetta at bat.
Pitcher Jason Marquis, the wind-up
The release
Tulowitzki
Howard at bat.
There’s something just right about seeing Helton on first base.
That’s right Howard, we won’t boo you like your own fans will, but you need to sit down.
Todd Helton at bat.
I was able to meet up with an old buddy of mine named Chuck.
Chuck rode up from Colorado Springs in the Coors Light RV. I’ve known this guy for over twenty years.
Here is Chuck and my wife Krista in front of the RV.
I need to say something to all those who predicted that the Rockies will come in 4th in our division.
I hope your squirming in your pants over your prediction. I’m not saying that the Rockies won’t come in 4th place, that could totally happen. But I love the fact that the Rockies have everyone who made that prediction thinking twice about the Rockies right now.
Congrats to Marquis, goes to show you what a Veteran can do when called upon to get the job done.
I have 400 more pictures I could post but I’m going to save them for ”Rockpile Ranter’s PIcture Blog”
Now to my Hagg’n score for the day.
Showing up for the game = 1 point.
Two snagged baseballs, one which bounced out of my glove and was snagged rolling down the steps = 3 points.
One toss up from Jorge De La Rosa = 2 points.
As shot of the scoreboard at the end of the game = 1 point.
Total for the game = 7 points.
I’m still working on how to count pictures of Ushers. It’s not hard to take pictures of Ushers but getting a picture of you with an Usher is hard because you have to ask someone else to take the picture. I might need some help with this.
I’m off to Game 2 agains the Phillies in an hour or so. The Rockies impressed the hell out of me yesterday. Let’s keep this train rolling.
Go Rockies, Phillies aint nutin but a thing…D
Waiting for game four so I can blog at you some more :)
I’m killing some time until tomorrow morning when I’ll be back at Hi-Corbett. Here are some more pictures from yesterday. Enjoy…D
Here’s most of Rockies pitchers warming up before batting practice.
Nice sunglasses.
Garrett Atkins out there having a good time.
Helton and Hawpe at batting practice.
Brad Hawpe
Some more pitcher pictures, say that three times fast.
Rockies catcher Michael McKenry.
Another Rockies catcher Wilin Rosario.
Here is everything I’ve managed to get autographed this trip minus my Big Stick bat which currently has 16 autographs on it.
I have one more black Big Stick bat and my plan is to get Todd Helton to sign it tomorrow. I’m not greedy so if it doesn’t happen I’m ok with that.
I attend a lot of games at Coors Field and I’ve never been able to get Todd’s autograph. I’m just never at the right place at the right time as far as he’s concerned. With other players I have been very fortunate.
If it’s ever going to happen twice (getting Helton’s autograph), this place (Hi Corbett), is the place to get it done.
Jorge De La Rosa signing my WS baseball.
I have to tell you about something I witnessed the other morning as Andy and I were hanging out in the parking lot of Hi-Corbett for the player meet and greet. We noticed that baseball card collectors actually whip out a whole page of cards and the players will usually sign most if not all of the cards on the page.
I watched Juan Morillo sign nine baseball cards for a collector. This collector had skills and has mastered the art of “player small talk”.
Here’s # 46 Ryan Mattheus pitcher signing my baseball.
I suck at ”player small talk”, but it’s something I’m working on. It’s not that I get starstruck (except for Helton), it’s that I’m not great at initial small talk with anyone.
Give me five minutes and I’ll talk to you like I’ve known you for years. Don’t believe me, just ask anyone who’s known me for more than five minutes.
Dan sent me these pictures of the jersey he had made for Emily. Spillborghs wouldn’t fit on the back so they just had Spilly sewn on. how cool is this jersey? Props again to Denver Athletics.
I know it’s pre-season but before I leave Tucson, I’d like to see the Rockies win one. C’mon Rockies win one for the Ranter tomorrow against the Dodgers because who loves ya?…D
Fun in the sun as I watch game one.
2/25/09 7:35 AM
We’re here parked in front of Hi-Corbett Field. We were told we could have the MBU parked here till 9 AM then we have to move onto the street. No worries, our parking spot on the street was only 20 feet behind where we’re parked now.
We’ve been watching the players pull up. I saw Garrett Atkins and Tulo pull up but I wasn’t ready and only had time to snap a quick picture. Tomorrow I’ll be ready for the early morning meet and greet.
I also saw and Franklin Morales walk through the gates.
Here’s Glendon Rusch
The MBU looking all pretty.
9:47 AM. Moved the MBU out to the street in front of the stadium. Beautiful spot, right now were just waiting for batting practice to start. Gates open at 11 AM.
That’s live blogging baby, I’m in my zone…D
11:00 AM
Andy and I were one of the first five people in the stadium when they opened the gates at 11. We proceeded to head over to our seats which were to the right of the Rockies dugout.
I wasn’t standing there a minute when a ball was hit over by me and Clint Barmes scooped it up and tossed it to me.
My side of the story was it was a little short, but after I missed it he walked over and tossed it to me.
Thank you Clint you made this snaggers day.
My first baseball of the season. What’s even better is that this was the first baseball tossed to a Rockies fan during batting practice this season. I like the sound of that.
Joe Koshansky # 47
I asked the guys to pose for a group picture. Thanks fellas!
Hawpe and Smith
Best shot I could get of Don Baylor.
First foot long brat of the season.
It wasn’t long before I ran into my friend Captain Earthman,..Super Vendor. He arrived yesterday by airplane from Colorado. It was good to see him.
My first autograph of spring training # 48 Jason Hirsh pitcher.
Here’s my mini bat that he autographed. Thanks Jason !
Atkins and Tulowitzki
Ian Stewart signed my second ball. Thanks Ian !
Tulowitzki, he walked up to where I was standing and started signing, I realized I had grabbed the wrong ball. By the time I had grabbed the right one, he was already moving down the line. Andy didn’t get his autograph either.
Andy’s goal is to get Tulo’s autograph on a visor for his wife.
Clint Barmes is always cool and signs for the fans.
The crowd for Spring training home opener, a little over three thousand. Must have been because Tiger is in town, I hope.
A shot of Aaron Cook warming up about four feet in front of my seat.
Taylor Buchholz
My favorite player under six foot, Omar “Q” Quintinilla
In case you’re wondering, I didn’t even see Todd Helton today. I did hear rumors of his presence. Several fans mentioned that they had run into Todd walking back from the practice fields and he signed for them.
Here’s Rockies catcher and fellow MLBlogger Michael McKenry
Take a look at the temperature. We were expecting highs of 80′s. Today was freggin hot.
I haven’t done this one in a while but this lady is deserving.
Here it is: The most annoying fan of the game.
Sad to say she was a Rockies fan.Her seats were behind us but she and her four children felt they had the right to run around and block our view more times than I cared to count. She was loud, rude and inconsiderate.
Bask in it lady, next time bring leashes.
Jason Grilli signed a World Series baseball for me.
Ahh, the first game. It is what it is. The Rockies lost this scorcher to the D-Backs 5-3. Here’s a picture of everything we got today. Sorry to say two of the autographs I’m still trying to figure out who they are.
Here is what I ended up with at the end of the day. Ian Stewart, Ryan Spilborghs, Manual Corpas, James Hirsh, Jason Grilli, Carlos Gonzalez and two more I’m embarassed to say I’m not sure of. One is a coach and one is a minor league pitcher.
We’ll be at Hi-Corbett around 6 AM tomorrow and I’ll have my bat with me a welcoming the players at the gate
Thanks for following the Spring Training version of the Rant..What do you think so far?…D
Only four more and I run the store
2/4/09
I try to live my life on an even keel. I shy away from extreme highs or 
lows. I prefer a middle of the road type of existance.
I breeze through life not trying to upset any more people than I make happy.
My point is this: Things are good with me right now, really good. This blog “The Rockpile Rant”, came in at number five. For months now I have managed to stay in the top ten. Thank you regular readers, Rockies fans and other bloggers.
I can’t explain it. I love the fact that a simple, mildly opinionated, good looking guy like me can rival some of the best bloggers out there.
I put a lot of work into my blog, (because I’m NOT a writer). If I was a writer this stuff would come a lot easier to me.
This is what I am,…I’m a reality blogger with a passion for baseball. With your help I’ve carved a niche here at MLBlogs that I plan to keep strong hold of.
I’ll keep reading yours, you keep reading mine. Together we’ll all get smarter.
I’m friendly competitive sort of guy, but competitive nonetheless. I’m sure you’ve gathered that by now.
There are numerous ways to plug your blog and get page hits. Mark Newman has his J-Blog School up and running which is a wonderful thing..
HOWEVER, you can be the best writer in the world, but how will anyone know it if they don’t get to witness your amazing writing skills?
Once the Rant hits number one and decends, I’ll give a class on “How to drive traffic to your blog.”
My ideas will be fresh and not a repeat of the same thing…because I’m cool like that.
Have I mentioned that I will have constantly updated material each day when the MBU is in Tucson?
That means that everytime you check-in with the Rant there will be something new there to see and read..all of it,… free to you.
I’ll be keeping you juiced up with a big fat syringe of steady pictures and storyline. I hope you’ll visit
the Rant often during my ten days down there.
I’m glad the Rockies avoided an arbitration hearing and locked in Garrett Atkins for another year. Congrats Garrett on snagging 7.05 million.
Just don’t forget to keep those RBI’s flowing.
It looks like the Rockies have added another outfielder to the mile high mix.
Say goodbye to Cory Wimberly (a Minor League infielder) and say hello to Matt Murton.
The Rockies acquired Matt from the Oakland A’s, before the A’s he was a Cub
Now we’ve got a whole bunch of outfielders and only three positions. Spring training is going to be everything I expect and then some.
Battle it out dudes,… that’s what it’s all about.
The Rockies Major League roster is now full. Let the games begin y’all…D
Willy set free, and dinner with the “P”
12/13/08
Free Willy??
The Rockies had to non-tender CF Willy Taveras, after figuring out they wouldn’t be able to trade “Speedy” before Fridays deadline for offering contracts to arbitration eligible players.
The Rockies were trying to swing a deal with Taveras and Juan Morillio going to the Nationals for pitcher Tim Redding, but the deal fell flat.
So Willy T is Free. Actually Redding is too for that matter. I tell you what, if “Speedy” could up his OBP just a wee bit, you might really have something there. You need to be on base to ”steal ‘em”.
Remember Brian “Tito” Fuentes is still free out there. Maybe he and Willy can go for a swim?
Starting pitcher Jorge De La Rosa, and relievers Huston Street, Taylor Buchholz and Jason Grilli were tendered offers, along with Clint Barmes and Garrett Atkins.
Me, my head still hurts, but I’m on the upswing. Hunter and I are heading to the Nuggets game tonight.
I could possibly have a pair of backstage passes for us.
Third level seats tonight, but the backstage pictures should be cool.
I’m hoping to get Chauncey Billups, Balkman, and Birdman’s autograph tonight…D
I’ll be attending a special Dinner with the family on next Thursday.
It’s a dinner/get together, for the season ticket holders in the Pavilion at Coors Field.
<–(These are not Rockies season ticket holders, and will not be attending the dinner party).
This dinner/party doesn’t officially have a name yet, so I’ve been challenged to come up with one (Not much rhymes with pavilion).
It’s going to be a great time. Such a fun group of people.
Ranter’s Bad Joke of the Day
A Mets fan, a Braves fan, a Yankees fan, and a Rockies fan are climbing up a mountian. On the way to the top, each is arguing about how loyal they are to their team and what they would do for that team.
Upon reaching the top, the Mets fan shouts, “This is for the Mets!!!” and throw’s himself off the top of the mountian. Next the Braves fan yells, “I love Atlanta”..This is for you Braves!!” and he too, jumps off. Finally when then the Rockies fan reaches the top he screams, “This is for EVERYONE!!” and pushes the Yankee fan off the mountian.
More when I get it…D
It’s no joke when your computer’s broke
10/7/08
I guess at some point all of your crap just wears out. Not unlike the Rockies last few games of the season, my computers last days have been slow and painful.
I was left with no option but to try and use my backup desktop computer. It’s damn near as old as my daughter Mylee, and she’ll be eight soon..
I got that thing up and crawling, but it’s just to old.
So after some tweaking, fixing, and replacing, I’m up online again using my old broken laptop.
I’m trying to look at this with the glass being half full, so on a positive note let me say at least my piece of schit computer lasted until the end of the regular season.
Speaking of broke and finished, who do you think the Rockies are going to get rid of before next season?
Do you like the way I just slid that in there? I got skills.
Matt Holliday seems to be the buzz name for now. I hope not.
He has another year still in Colorado but you know he’s got to be wondering what his market value is? I’m curious.
As a Rockies ticket purchaser, I only help pay the Rockies salaries, I don’t sign their paychecks, but I think they should find a way to keep Holliday here. I’d pay a buck more for a Rockpile ticket.
He likes it here, keep the man happy, and pay him what he’s worth. Even that might not be enough.
Next seasons pitching should be interesting. Brian Fuentes (super southpaw) is coming off his best season and is now a free agent.
Brian Fuentes = reliable closer
Yep, he is going to cost some the Rockies some green, but pitching has ALWAYS haunted this team and this guy does what you pay him to do, win games.
In my opinion he is only expendable if it involves some kind of deal that keeps Matt Holliday in Colorado.
Aaron Cook had a great season except the last month or so.
Jeff Francis never found his groove, and then he went on the DL for his shoulder. He struggled when he came off the DL, but was seemingly back in stride toward the end of the season.
Jorge De La Rosa struggled early on, but showed us a few things the last part of the season. I think he’ll be back. Buchholz finished the season 50/50 and Manny Corpas was 3-4.
There are bits and pieces of a good pitching squad here, but the Rockies are missing one major thing…A big name pitcher.
If we could guarantee a solid pitching season (we all wish), there is no telling what the Rockies could do in this Division.
Now let me take this full circle. In my opinion, Matt Holliday is only expendable if we bring in a BIG name pitcher. See,…it works both ways.
Catchers Duel
VS
Yorvit vs Chris. Hurdle will probably split their action 50/50 until an injury or performance dictates which one will assume the position. Both these guys are excellent catchers and the Rockies are lucky they have them both to choose from.
Where will Garrett Atkins wind up next season? This one is a pickle.
Garrett starts the season on third base. Todd Helton gets hurt midway through the year, Garrett takes over first base and does a great job.
Ian Stewart takes over third and does a better job than Garrett did.
Ian is younger, more athletic and gets paid less than Garrett.
On Garrett’s side, one thing he has that Ian doesn’t is a proven track record. Only time will tell for Ian.
I have more plenty more questions as do you I’m sure. I also have five months to kill.
Tell me what you think the Rockies should do for next season.
Now that I have a functioning computer again, I’m going to try my hand at some playoff blogging..Thanks for reading…Watch out for those Phillies..I’m just saying…D
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