Snatching Defeat From The Jaws of Victory

It could have been Randy Johnson's night. He tied Roger Clemens for 2nd on the all time strikeout list (4,672). He could have had his first back to back double digit strikeout games since 2004. He left after seven innings just one strike out short of both with a 3-2 lead and win number 289 within reach, but once again the the bullpen's inability to record the required number of remaining outs without allowing a run and poor defense let him down.

Will the D-Backs ever again field a true first baseman? How is it that the corner position has become such a trash can for us defensively where good (or supposedly good) hitters go to botch ground balls?

By the way, I was looking over the All Star Ballot yesterday. This just doesn't seem right. You can vote for a DH from the American League but not from the National League. I understand that there is no DH position in the NL so obviously that's why there isn't one on the ballot. Can you write in someone as a DH for the NL? The ballot doesn't make it clear.


UPDATE: File this under "We Could Have Used Them Last Night"

The trade market might be materializing a little earlier than normal this year and the Giants are actively shopping several players, according to sources.

But not the names you'd expect.

The Giants have informed other clubs that relievers Tyler Walker, Jack Taschner and Vinnie Chulk are available in fair-value deals. The club also is soliciting offers for Erick Threets and Brad Hennessey, who is starting for Triple-A Fresno.

Closer Brian Wilson is not among the players the Giants are keen on moving.

The sudden motivation to deal relief pitching is twofold: several contenders are in bullpen crisis mode, and the Giants believe they have several younger relievers who are emerging or on the cusp of doing so.

several contenders are in bullpen crisis mode

I wonder if we're on that list?