9=8?
We're big Rays fans -- we've been going to games since my 9-year-old was a baby and his dad had to change diapers in the stands because there were no changing tables in the men's rooms (thank you Matt Silverman & Co for fixing that!). We're thrilled that the Rays (who I used to refer to as the best minor league team in major league baseball) have thrived under Coach Maddon. And we appreciate what a wonderful baseball team this franchise has evolved into -- it's really just terrific!
So when my son asked -- why is Coach Maddon saying 9=8? I explained that Coach Maddon says that 9 guys playing hard all season results in them being one of the 8 teams in the post-season -- and my son says -- we're in the AL, mom -- shouldn't that be 10=8? Counting the DH?
Well, I was stumped -- is there something obvious I'm missing?
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14 comments
Comments
Yes
Only 9 men are in the lineup in any game. There are 9 men on the field and 9 men in the batting order.
by bobr on Aug 19, 2008 1:46 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
to explain further,
the 9th man on the field that is not in the line-up is the pitcher, who does not bat, as the DH takes the pitchers spot in the batting order.
by davidsmarch on Aug 19, 2008 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good questions, but....
The DH here stands for designated hustler to cover for BJ so it is really 9=8. I kid I kid
www.outsperswing.com
by Tommy Rancel on Aug 19, 2008 1:48 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
9=8.com
Great question from the innocent eyes of a child, I love it. Of course, you could take it much further and ask about the bullpen and bench players and, how about the 10th man (the home crowd). You can always try to teach your son about metaphors (good luck with that) ;) . 9=8 is a great theme and rallying cry for this team. I actually started a blog with this theme (www.9equals8.com). Good times.
by 9equals8 on Aug 19, 2008 2:56 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
The funny thing is
After seeing his pimping on the other thread I was going to come over here and do it for him. Too late!
by rglass44 on Aug 19, 2008 5:20 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I've read his blog.
I won’t comment on my thoughts, but I encourage him to keep doing his thing. There’s enough internet for everybody.
by kericr on Aug 19, 2008 11:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I always liked that it also addresses the improbability of this season.
I suppose that means you won't be making me porridge tomorrow morning, Ian?
by JI on Aug 20, 2008 2:08 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
It SHOULD be 9=2
since we’re only eligible to receive one of two playoff spots(AL East and WC)
by Kevin Gengler on Aug 20, 2008 3:39 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
i've seen 9=8 quote as playing hard for 9 innings a night will result in being one of 8 playoff teams
which makes more sense, considering the whole DH thing and the fact that Maddon wouldn’t want to exclude anyone from the bench and bullpen as being important.
can anyone confirm?
my blog // calling BJ Upton lazy is lazy // past results do not guarantee future performance
by Sky Kalkman on Aug 20, 2008 5:52 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
yes. that's what i thought.
formerly websterjtc; always 9 = 8
by walkoffwalk on Aug 21, 2008 4:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought it was just play hard for 9 innings and you'll get one of the 8 playoff spots.
formerly websterjtc; always 9 = 8
by walkoffwalk on Aug 21, 2008 4:39 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
9=8, except at home, 8.5=8
Vogt early, Vogt often.
by Brickhaus on Aug 21, 2008 11:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

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