Parroting the "Saves" stat--writer states obvious but politically dangerous; risks label of crazy, silly & threat to his paper's credibility

"As the save totals continue to be parroted as meaningful, it's worth noting Twins closer Joe Nathan's week. Wednesday, he started the ninth, allowing three hits and an earned run. Thursday, entering with two out in the ninth, he allowed a hit before ending the game with a strikeout. Saturday, he started the ninth and struck out all three batters.

• Nathan had one appearance that was superb, one that was so-so and one that was dreadful - and was rewarded a save for each."

Information is "parroted" as meaningful...when often it's not. All power to the "parrots" of course. And why shouldn't they take it if it's freely given? From NY Post article by Phil Mushnick (stats freely available to anyone), "ESPN fails again to take out Trash," 4/23/07.

• What's happened to Karl Ravech? He used to loudly bash anyone who brought up the 'total saves' number, blaring that it only meant the guy (not his guy) had "more opportunities." If he's stopped doing that, then ESPN has succeeded in changing baseball awards voting.

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