Super Sunday Links 25 September 2011

While you were probably watching College Football enjoying a wonderful Saturday afternoon I was preparing the grill, but right before I burned some meat I decided to put these links together for you viewing pleasure.

Going to the Movies

Joe Posnanski " Posts Moneyball and the Ballad of Bill James "
The poz with some insight on Bill James and how he plays into the new Moneyball movie.

Daryl Morey and Sam Hinkie on the meaning of Moneyball - Grantland
The Rockets front office on the stats movement and how Michael Lewis' book impacted the way they've built a franchise.

Statistics

Baseball Prospectus | Spinning Yarn: Removing the Mask
This is a look at catchers and their ability to gain extra strikes for pitchers. It's a very fascinating article and according to the research the Astros above average catchers are Humberto Quintero, Kevin Cash and Carlos Corporan. The below average are: J.R. Towles, Robinson Cancel and Jason Castro. Some Minor League players make the list as well with interesting results.

Astro Dealings

09/23/2011 - Great New Logo, But...
An argument for staying in the National League. As you know I don't mind a move to the AL, but I did find the statement "I've yet to hear any compelling reason why the Astros should switch leagues..." I found it interesting because their really isn't a good reason for the Astros to switch leagues. To me it's all about timing and the Astros have bad timing. Either way it's a good read.

Houston Astros Mt. Rushmore | AthlonSports.com
This is something I've wanted to discuss on the podcast for a few weeks now but haven't had the opportunity. I also recently heard the ESPN Baseball Tonight talk about this, but instead of on Mt. Rushmore they had one for pitchers and one for hitters. So who is your Mt. Rushmore?

Major League Sons: Bloodline Players from the 2011 Draft - Minor League Ball
Jack Armstrong makes an appearance in John Sickels latest look at Minor League players.