Welcome back to BCB After Dark: the ultimate hangout for night owls, early risers, new parents, and Cubs supporters from around the globe. We appreciate your visit! Both newcomers and seasoned guests are invited to join us. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance. We still have a few tables open—bring your favorite drink.
BCB After Dark is your space to chat about baseball, music, movies, or any thoughts you’d like to share, as long as they comply with site guidelines. We encourage the late-night crowd to kick off the festivities, but everyone is welcome to join in as you wake up and ease into the day.
The Mets leveled the National League Championship Series with a 7-3 victory in Los Angeles. In the American League Championship Series, the Yankees triumphed over the Guardians with a score of 5-2 in game one.
Last week, I asked you to evaluate Cubs outfielder/DH Seiya Suzuki’s performance in the 2024 season. An impressive 72 percent rated him with a solid “B,” while 18 percent granted him an “A.”
Now, let’s shift gears to discuss music and films. Feel free to skip this section if it’s not your cup of tea, I promise not to take offense.
This evening, we’re showcasing the Keith Jarrett Trio’s performance in Tokyo from 1993. Jarrett is on piano, Gary Peacock is on double bass, and Jack DeJohnette is on drums.
In my pursuit of “fun” horror films for October, I checked out The Walking Dead (1936), Warner Brothers’ take on Frankenstein, featuring Boris Karloff in the lead role. However, despite being directed by the legendary Michael Curtiz, The Walking Dead pales in comparison to the stellar Universal horror classics of the early thirties.
(And yes, this film is entirely unrelated to the well-known comic book and TV series of the same name.)
Karloff portrays John Ellman, a pianist recently released after ten years in prison for a manslaughter conviction he insists he did not commit. Meanwhile, a vile crime lord named Nolan (played by Ricardo Cortez) seeks vengeance against the honest judge who sentenced one of his mob associates to a decade behind bars without the possibility of parole. Coincidentally, the same judge also sentenced Ellman, prompting Nolan to devise a scheme to assassinate the judge and frame Ellman for the crime.
The scheme succeeds, largely due to the intimidation of two young scientists (Warren Hull and Marguerite Churchill) who witnessed the event and are silenced. They are assistants to Dr. Beaumont (Edmund Gwenn), a brilliant scientist working on methods to reanimate deceased tissue (as one does, naturally).
Ellman is wrongfully convicted—thanks in part to his corrupt defense attorney, funded by Nolan—and sentenced to death by electric chair. Eventually, the young couple finds the courage to report their observations to the police, but, as expected, the call to the death chamber comes too late.
Upon receiving Ellman’s body, Beaumont, in a
In a scene reminiscent of Frankenstein, albeit set in a contemporary hospital instead of a European castle, Ellman is brought back to life. Although he lacks full memory of events prior to his death, he is aware that Nolan and his crew are his adversaries, and he’s gradually starting to recover his memories.
Naturally, Nolan cannot allow anyone—alive or undead—to survive who could implicate him in the judge’s murder, so they must eliminate him once more.
This is where The Walking Dead really shows its limitations due to being produced after the implementation of the Production Code. One by one, Nolan’s gang members find themselves in a showdown with Ellman, yet each ends up meeting their demise—not at Ellman’s hands, but rather due to their own panicked attempts to flee. They escape from him in terror, only to inadvertently cause their own deaths. It is indeed possible to create a compelling monster movie post-Code; The Bride of Frankenstein, which was made afterward, is often considered superior to its predecessor. Unfortunately, this film does not reach such heights. The audience is left wondering what exactly causes such fright among the gangsters, aside from the fact that Ellman has returned from the dead—and let’s not forget, he is portrayed by Karloff, sporting dark and sinister makeup. The most aggressive action he takes is to pound on the piano keys in frustration during a concert. He may well be the most musically gifted zombie in film history.
The Walking Dead also lacks the delightful humor that director Curtiz infused into two pre-Code horror films of the era, Doctor X and Mysteries of the Wax Museum. This film is also shot in black-and-white, unlike those two films, which utilized two-color Technicolor. The Walking Dead approaches its narrative with an excessive seriousness that feels misplaced in a story so absurd. Yet, it also fails to enhance the horror element sufficiently. After all, how terrifying can Ellman be when the mobsters are consistently doing away with themselves? At the very least, Frankenstein’s monster had the tragic misfortune of throwing a little girl into a river, albeit without fully understanding the repercussions.
Does The Walking Dead offer anything worth viewing? Certainly, Karloff delivers an impressive performance. While he is essentially reprising a variant of Frankenstein’s monster, Ellman showcases a deeper, more pitiable character who doesn’t quite deserve the fate that befalls him. There is greater nuance in Karloff’s portrayal compared to the more innocent monster from his earlier roles. His charisma shines through despite the film’s weak script.
Curtiz, alongside cinematographer Hal Mohr, manages to craft some striking visuals. It’s unsurprising, given that both would later earn multiple Academy Awards. There are moments where Karloff’s visage is expertly framed, hinting at what terrified the mobsters. Additionally, several effective shots in the cemetery meet audience expectations.
Another commendable aspect of Curtiz’s direction is the film’s concise runtime of just 66 minutes. The plot is thin enough that any longer format would have felt drawn out.
While Karloff and Curtiz elevate The Walking Dead from being utterly dreadful, it ultimately falls flat when compared to the illustrious Universal monster films it aspires to emulate. For those who appreciate the classics, it’s advisable to stick with the originals. Nevertheless, for completionists, this film may be worth a one-time viewing.
The trailer for The Walking Dead is rather disappointing, revealing little of the film and merely promising appearances by Karloff. You can check it out at the provided link. Additionally, here’s a scene featuring undead Ellman during a piano recital, where it’s revealed that the mobsters are in his crosshairs. The scene is well-executed, as
you would expect from a Curtiz film. He later directed Casablanca, in case you weren’t aware of that.
Welcome back to everyone who skips the music and movies.
It’s widely recognized that the Cubs struggled with power in 2024, making it a significant offseason priority to enhance their lineup. However, it’s a challenge, as the Cubs don’t have many open positions, yet something has to change.
I’m uncertain whether Cody Bellinger will opt out of his contract at the end of the season; it appears to be a 50/50 situation at this point. Even if he chooses not to, he could still be traded. Removing Bellinger from the lineup would create an opportunity to add another power bat.
One potential free agent is Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernández. Coming off the previous winter as a free agent without receiving a multi-year offer that met his expectations, Hernández signed a one-year deal with the Dodgers, aiming to return to the market this winter. Although he has expressed his happiness in Los Angeles and desire to remain, there are no indications at present that the Dodgers are prepared to offer him a multi-year deal.
If Hernández does enter the open market, would he be a suitable addition for the North Side? A two-time All-Star, Hernández hit 33 home runs in 2024, along with 32 doubles and a .501 slugging percentage. He achieved a batting average of .272 with a .339 on-base percentage, which is only slightly above his career averages of .263 and .320. This level of offensive production is certainly what the Cubs could benefit from.
Additionally, Hernández plays right field, making him a seamless fit in place of Bellinger.
It’s worth mentioning that Hernández excelled in the National League Division Series against the Padres, for those who believe some players elevate their performance in the playoffs. He also performed well in the 2022 AL Wild Card series with the Blue Jays.
Nonetheless, there are some drawbacks to signing Hernández. Firstly, today (October 15) marks his 32nd birthday. He seeks a multi-year deal, and while a three-year contract might not be overly concerning, committing large contracts to players in their mid-thirties carries inherent risks nowadays.
Moreover, the Dodgers will likely issue a qualifying offer to Hernández, meaning the Cubs would forfeit a draft pick if they signed him.
A third downside is that Teoscar Hernández has never been considered for a Gold Glove. While I wouldn’t classify him as terrible in right field, the defensive metrics suggest he is a below-average defensive outfielder. This situation is unlikely to improve as he ages.
Lastly, signing Hernández could hinder the development of potential right field prospects such as Kevin Alcántara and Owen Caissie. While this might not necessarily be a negative—given the chances that either player could outperform Hernández are slim—there remains the possibility that one or both of them might match Hernández’s performance at a considerably lower cost. Although they might face significant growing pains in the majors, similar to what Pete Crow-Armstrong experienced this season.
Another potential downside is that Hernández is right-handed, and the Cubs would likely prefer a left-handed hitter.
At 32 years old, Hernández likely won’t garner more than a three-year contract. This year, he earned $23.5 million with the Dodgers and would probably seek a slight increase over that amount. However, for Hernández, the duration of the contract is likely more crucial than the financial aspect. He aims to secure a good salary but is also searching for a place to settle down and conclude his career.
I understand that everyone is eager for Juan Soto instead. Let’s assume that he won’t be coming to Chicago, which is my assumption as well.
What are your thoughts on the Cubs potentially signing free agent outfielder Teoscar Hernández?
Poll
Should the Cubs attempt to sign free agent Teoscar Hernández?
That wraps up our evening. Thank you to everyone who joined us. We hope you had a great time. Please travel home safely, recycle any cans and bottles, tip your waitstaff, and be sure to join us again tomorrow for more BCB After Dark.
# BCB After Dark: Cubs Season Reflections, Spooky Movie Reviews, and the Future of Teoscar Hernández
## Cubs Season Reflections
As the Chicago Cubs wrap up another season, fans and analysts alike are taking stock of the team’s performance. This year’s campaign was filled with highs and lows, exciting moments, and lessons learned. Here’s a comprehensive reflection on the Cubs’ season, focusing on key players, strategy adjustments, and what lies ahead.
### Key Highlights of the Season
– **Strong Start**: The Cubs kicked off the season with a robust lineup, showcasing impressive batting and pitching stats that had fans buzzing with optimism.
– **Mid-Season Struggles**: Despite the promising start, the team faced a slump, which raised concerns about player consistency and injuries. Key injuries to pitchers tested the depth of the roster.
– **Emerging Stars**: Players like Nico Hoerner and Justin Steele stepped up, demonstrating their potential to be cornerstone players for years to come.
### Season Statistics Overview
| Category | Cubs 2023 Stats |
|———————–|———————|
| Wins | 78 |
| Losses | 84 |
| Batting Average | .257 |
| Home Runs | 205 |
| ERA | 4.12 |
This table provides a snapshot of how the Cubs fared statistically throughout the season. While the overall record may not reflect a playoff berth, the numbers indicate areas for improvement and potential for growth.
### Notable Player Performances
The success of any baseball team relies heavily on its star players. Here are some standout performances from the 2023 season:
– **Nico Hoerner**: Leading the team in batting average, Hoerner’s consistency at the plate made him a valuable asset.
– **Justin Steele**: With a breakout year, Steele emerged as the club’s ace, posting an impressive ERA and strikeout ratio.
– **Ian Happ**: Known for his powerful swing, Happ provided crucial home runs that kept the Cubs competitive in tight games.
## Spooky Movie Reviews
As the season winds down and the Halloween spirit takes over, it’s the perfect time to delve into some spooky movie reviews. Baseball and horror have a unique connection—both celebrate tension, suspense, and unexpected turns. Here’s a roundup of some must-watch spooky films to enjoy during the off-season:
### Top Spooky Movie Picks
#### 1. **The Shining (1980)**
– **Director**: Stanley Kubrick
– **Plot**: A family becomes winter caretakers of an isolated hotel, where supernatural forces influence the father’s descent into madness.
– **Why Watch**: A classic that blends psychological horror with stunning cinematography, creating an atmospheric experience.
#### 2. **Get Out (2017)**
– **Director**: Jordan Peele
– **Plot**: A young African American man uncovers shocking secrets when he meets his white girlfriend’s family.
– **Why Watch**: This film cleverly critiques social issues while delivering genuine scares and thought-provoking commentary.
#### 3. **A Quiet Place (2018)**
– **Director**: John Krasinski
– **Plot**: In a post-apocalyptic world, a family must remain silent to avoid deadly creatures that hunt by sound.
– **Why Watch**: The tension is palpable, and the innovative use of sound (or lack thereof) makes for an unforgettable viewing experience.
### Movie Streaming Recommendations
| Movie Title | Streaming Platform | Release Year |
|——————-|———————–|————–|
| The Shining | HBO Max | 1980 |
| Get Out | Amazon Prime Video | 2017 |
| A Quiet Place | Paramount+ | 2018 |
These films provide a mix of thrills and chills that will keep you entertained as you reflect on the Cubs’ season.
## The Future of Teoscar Hernández
Teoscar Hernández has made a name for himself in Major League Baseball, showcasing his skills as a powerful hitter and versatile player. As the Cubs look toward the future, Hernández’s potential contributions merit serious consideration.
### Performance Snapshot
– **2023 Season Stats**: Teoscar batted .284 with 29 home runs and 92 RBIs, making him one of the most sought-after free agents.
– **Defensive Skills**: His ability to play both corner outfield positions allows managers flexibility in lineup construction.
### Why the Cubs Should Target Hernández
1. **Batting Power**: Hernández’s ability to hit for power would bolster the Cubs lineup, providing much-needed offense in critical situations.
2. **Experience**: With several years of MLB experience, he brings leadership qualities that could mentor younger players.
3. **Team Fit**: His playing style aligns with the Cubs’ need for impactful hitters who can adapt to various game scenarios.
### Potential Contract Projections
| Player Name | Estimated Contract Value | Years |
|———————|—————————|——-|
| Teoscar Hernández | $75 million | 5 |
These projections reflect his market value and the investment the Cubs may need to make to secure his services.
## Benefits and Practical Tips for Cubs Fans
Engaging with the Cubs’ future and enjoying spooky cinema can enhance the baseball experience. Here are some practical tips to make the most of the off-season:
### Benefits of Following the Cubs
– **Community Engagement**: Connect with fellow fans through online forums and local meetups.
– **Stay Informed**: Follow Cubs news through reliable sources to remain updated on player movements, trades, and management decisions.
– **Get Involved**: Participate in fan events, charity functions, and Cubs-related activities to deepen your connection to the team.
### Tips for Enjoying Spooky Movies
– **Host a Movie Night**: Invite friends over for a themed movie marathon, complete with popcorn and spooky decorations.
– **Create a Watchlist**: Curate a list of horror films you’ve always wanted to see and make it a goal to check them off.
– **Explore Different Genres**: Don’t limit yourself to traditional horror; explore psychological thrillers, ghost stories, and even horror-comedies.
By combining the excitement of Cubs baseball with the thrill of spooky movie nights, you can enjoy a well-rounded off-season filled with entertainment and community.
## Case Study: Fan Reactions to Teoscar Hernández Rumors
As the offseason progresses, rumors about player signings circulate frequently. Here’s a look at how Cubs fans are reacting to potential Teoscar Hernández acquisition discussions:
– **Social Media Buzz**: Platforms like Twitter and Reddit are abuzz with predictions and excitement regarding Hernández’s fit within the Cubs organization.
– **Polls and Surveys**: Fan polls reveal overwhelming support for pursuing Hernández, with over 70% of respondents in favor of making a move for him.
Engaging with the community during the off-season not only enhances the experience for fans but also magnifies the anticipation for the upcoming season.
By focusing on the Cubs’ current season reflections, indulging in spooky cinema, and analyzing player potential, fans can navigate the off-season with enthusiasm and hope for the future.
