I'm back like Whitney on crack!
With that ridiculous intro aside, welcome back to Sports are Dunn. The place where opinions are thrown like Nyjer Morgan pucnches, and the only bias is towards anything that has has had any relation to any organization that has ever been reffered, or referred to itself as, America's Team.
With that.....
Ladies and Gentlemen please recognize the fact that my Twins are up 9.5 games (Sox played Sunday Night baseball game) with like two weeks left, all but solidifying a post season berth. Now this may not be fresh news to you and neither may be the next tid bit, but I am sure you and many others have neglested to notice that this is coming despite the presence of our best power hitter and shut down closer. Now think about that. Take away the other contenders main power threat and their closer and ask me would they be in the postion the Twins are in.
(I included all possible contenders)
Yanks- A-Rod & Mo
Rays- Longoria & Soriano
Rangers- Hamilton & Feliz
Braves- Glaus & Wagner
Phillies- Howard & Lidge(though I do deem this an upgrade in the closers role)
Reds- Votto & Cordero
Giants- Huff & Wilson
Padres- Gonzalez & Bell
Rockies- Tulo(especially now!) & Street
Now you may say well the Twins still have a beast in Mauer. Yes. Yes they do, but he is not the reason we have prevailed. An agesless Thome, a starting to figure things out, 100 RBI, 24 year old Delmon Young, a god send in Valencia, and solid pitching that has bailed each other out time in and time out is the cause. In other words, team baseball. Would the other teams have it. Probably, but in the case of the Twins, we know this to be a fact.
AND THAT'S HOW YOU COMEBACK!
In football news, soooo I guess we all are biting our tounges over the Hollywood Jets now huh? Sanchez played his ass off, Braylon didn't drop anything significant, and LT gave me solid fantasy points, which all led to a Jets mind fuck of the Pats. Bieber, who looked so solid first half, threw two badly thrown picks in the second half and looked deflated late. That was all I have to say about the Jets. I'm a Bills fan remember. Don't worry, neither do I sometimes.
My picks for the upcoming NFL seaosn. (Just cause)
AFC
East- Jets
North- Colts
South- Steelers (solely based on their dominate D)
West- Chargers (by default)
NFC
East- Eagles (Vick baby!!!!)
North- Packers (Rodgers is as goofy as Eli, but three billion times better)
South- Falcons (they'll dominate devision play)
West- Seahwaks will lose the least
AFC Champion: Colts in another classic with the Sexy Rexy's (Sue me. I just watched Empire Records.)
NFC Champion: Packers (by default)
Champ: Peyton's win
I would go backwards and comment on Roddick's inevitable collapse at another Major, or Nadal's Major accomplishment for that matter. Or how Jimmy is gearing up to win his fifth Cup in a row, well on his way to the Russell. Or should I say the Red? How about we just win five first. Moving on. Or the three's Artest had no business hitting, or the South Beach Talent Takers(P, is this name trademarked?), or Reggie's "confession", or how Tiger's across the horizon comeback (I say this simply because if it doesn't happen, I can just shrug my shoulders and say oh well. If he does comeback and I bet against it, trust me, I'll feel heavily annoyed by it), or a certain Latin reporter who was dressed more like she was looking to score free drinks, rather than score exclusives.
No, I am in a state of positive progression. With The Twins not fighting towards an eventual 163rd game, I am looking at sports more clearly. With more confidence. I can honestly say that the Bills are playing so devastatingly poor right now so that come draft time, they can pluck Mallet, or Kellen Moore, or (fingers crossed) Pryor #1 overall. And I can look at Kentucky basketball having another incoming freshman being investigated, and look you in the eye and swear to you that their recruiting practices are legit. That we aren't the USC of men's college basketball. And I can see My Vols get demolished by yet another team, FLORIDA no less!, and tell you with the most forthright of earnestness that we are rebuilding, and attempting to wash the Kiffin stank off us.
So please, enjoy this new enlightened Chris. Because as soon as the Twins get eliminated in the playoffs by those other mind fucks known as the New York Yankees, I'm coming for asses like Roethlisberger at a college afterparty, alone, with two passed out stragglers.
Til next time.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
The C's will have smooth sailing
So with my upcoming cruise creeping up on me like NCAA officials on Eric Bledsoe, this edition will be a two week wrap up. Not the last two weeks, but the upcoming two weeks. I'll give you my synopsis on Championship outcomes and other tid bits. So with that.....
The C's are beating the Lakers again, enough said. Why? Well for the same reason they beat them the first time. Pierce (and someone else) will tighten up Kobe, Odom will digress with the intense pressure that Sheed(Posey) and Perkins (even semi-injured) will throw at him (something offensive minded Ama're didn't think of doing), and D Fisher's lucky ass three's that always seem to cripple an opponent in late game scenarios will be handcuffed by an even better Rondo. Who is left? Oh yeah, Gasol. Well seeing as he couldn't dominate against an undersized, no defense presenting Phoenix team, I really can't see him doing much of anything against a team that would rather win 10-4, then score 140 points in a game. And please don't mention Ron Artest. He hasn't been a factor since St. John's. Even with that B.S. layup. I am not saying that LA probably won't fight as hard as anyone in order for Kobe to knock another notch in his quest to surpass Jordan as the greatest person named Kobe Bryant, but they just aren't good enough. We already saw how the Suns second unit absolutely terrorized the Lakers' secondaries, and with the way the C's are like a hockey team with their line changes, who am I to even speculate that this won't happen again. Kobe can't do it all. The Lakers bench is their achilles heel and this is why they will lose.
-Celtics in 6.
Speaking of the puck, if the Flyers don't find a way to 1.) stop missing golden opportunities and 2.) find a way to slow down Eager, this series will be wrapped up before I set sail Sunday. Remember the 'Hawks are doing this without the services of Kane or Toews, who both decided to sit and watch game 2. Philly should take solice in getting to the Finals, kind of like the Colts in February. This is Chicago's year. It's destiny. In hockey anyways.
-Blackhawks in 5.
From ice to clay, I have to say that I am now solely rooting for Soderling. With his unbelievable upset of Feds I have to say that now not only with Rafa easily dispose of whomever meets him in the Final,(not that Roger would have posed any kind of real threat. This is clay you know) but because of this; he may just let off the gas long enough for Soderling to surprise him. Probably not though. Where's my true Frenchman Monfils!? Oh yeah, second round exit. And as noted, Roddick once again took an early exit. So early that he wasn't even the last American man standing. What is it with this guy?
As far as the ladies go, with Henin's early exit I believe this is once again, Sarena's tourney to lose.
From clay to concrete, I just have to say once again how much I hate the Busch's. But I did enjoy seeing Kurt get mashed up Sunday. Speaking of crashing, who does it twice in the same race!? Jimmy does, that's who. Thank God this is still early season. 48 definitely will turn it on in the second half.
I'll end with a little baseball news.
So just in time for me to start cheering for the Redlegs, Pujols decided to stop playing around and become superhuman again. 3 taters is always an impressive feat, but after watching the Cards lineup dismantle Arroyo yesterday, the Reds quite simply aren't there yet. Garcia is a young monster for the Cards and teaming him up with Carpenter and Wainwright(Is he related to Rufus?), formidable is a word that comes to mind. Central Division champs are three others. And that could easily go to National League champs if the Fightin's don't start well, fightin'. I would have never thought they would just completely stop hitting as a whole unit. If this is the type of team unity that the analysts are all saying that other squads need in order to consistently win, then I am not sure that's a model I need my Twins to follow. Especially as we finally begin to separate ourselves from the rest of the Central. I don't think this will last too much longer, but then again, I never expected it to start. Oh, and Ubaldo Jiminez has the worst first name in the game, but the sickest and most electric stuff. 10-1 ERA under 1! Who does that? Oh yeah, no one. Here's to him keeping it up and the rest of the Rockies doing anything besides sending an underachieving CF down, so we can get this guy some Goddamn pub.
With that, adios! and I'll see you after the 14th.
The C's are beating the Lakers again, enough said. Why? Well for the same reason they beat them the first time. Pierce (and someone else) will tighten up Kobe, Odom will digress with the intense pressure that Sheed(Posey) and Perkins (even semi-injured) will throw at him (something offensive minded Ama're didn't think of doing), and D Fisher's lucky ass three's that always seem to cripple an opponent in late game scenarios will be handcuffed by an even better Rondo. Who is left? Oh yeah, Gasol. Well seeing as he couldn't dominate against an undersized, no defense presenting Phoenix team, I really can't see him doing much of anything against a team that would rather win 10-4, then score 140 points in a game. And please don't mention Ron Artest. He hasn't been a factor since St. John's. Even with that B.S. layup. I am not saying that LA probably won't fight as hard as anyone in order for Kobe to knock another notch in his quest to surpass Jordan as the greatest person named Kobe Bryant, but they just aren't good enough. We already saw how the Suns second unit absolutely terrorized the Lakers' secondaries, and with the way the C's are like a hockey team with their line changes, who am I to even speculate that this won't happen again. Kobe can't do it all. The Lakers bench is their achilles heel and this is why they will lose.
-Celtics in 6.
Speaking of the puck, if the Flyers don't find a way to 1.) stop missing golden opportunities and 2.) find a way to slow down Eager, this series will be wrapped up before I set sail Sunday. Remember the 'Hawks are doing this without the services of Kane or Toews, who both decided to sit and watch game 2. Philly should take solice in getting to the Finals, kind of like the Colts in February. This is Chicago's year. It's destiny. In hockey anyways.
-Blackhawks in 5.
From ice to clay, I have to say that I am now solely rooting for Soderling. With his unbelievable upset of Feds I have to say that now not only with Rafa easily dispose of whomever meets him in the Final,(not that Roger would have posed any kind of real threat. This is clay you know) but because of this; he may just let off the gas long enough for Soderling to surprise him. Probably not though. Where's my true Frenchman Monfils!? Oh yeah, second round exit. And as noted, Roddick once again took an early exit. So early that he wasn't even the last American man standing. What is it with this guy?
As far as the ladies go, with Henin's early exit I believe this is once again, Sarena's tourney to lose.
From clay to concrete, I just have to say once again how much I hate the Busch's. But I did enjoy seeing Kurt get mashed up Sunday. Speaking of crashing, who does it twice in the same race!? Jimmy does, that's who. Thank God this is still early season. 48 definitely will turn it on in the second half.
I'll end with a little baseball news.
So just in time for me to start cheering for the Redlegs, Pujols decided to stop playing around and become superhuman again. 3 taters is always an impressive feat, but after watching the Cards lineup dismantle Arroyo yesterday, the Reds quite simply aren't there yet. Garcia is a young monster for the Cards and teaming him up with Carpenter and Wainwright(Is he related to Rufus?), formidable is a word that comes to mind. Central Division champs are three others. And that could easily go to National League champs if the Fightin's don't start well, fightin'. I would have never thought they would just completely stop hitting as a whole unit. If this is the type of team unity that the analysts are all saying that other squads need in order to consistently win, then I am not sure that's a model I need my Twins to follow. Especially as we finally begin to separate ourselves from the rest of the Central. I don't think this will last too much longer, but then again, I never expected it to start. Oh, and Ubaldo Jiminez has the worst first name in the game, but the sickest and most electric stuff. 10-1 ERA under 1! Who does that? Oh yeah, no one. Here's to him keeping it up and the rest of the Rockies doing anything besides sending an underachieving CF down, so we can get this guy some Goddamn pub.
With that, adios! and I'll see you after the 14th.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Hump-day thoughts
Get your mind out of the gutter. I's jus talkin' 'bout spotes. Today's edition will be a concoction of random thoughts from yours truly. They will touch on everything from the French Open to the World Cup. With that said, away we gooooo......
-You're lucky Yanks. Baker was looking strong like bull last night. Yeah, yeah Burnett was matching him pitch for pitch, but Burnett would have eventually lost control. And as the Yankee announcers have constantly, apparently just to mock me, let us know throughout EVERY Yankee-Twins game, you know, the Twins pitchers pound the strike zone. They are a constant at the top of the rankings in fewest team walks. (that was Michael Kay and Co.) Now we just have to keep this momentum through today. Two wins in a day against the Yanks would guaranteeingly put us on a roll.
-So which round will Roddick break our hearts? Third? Quarters? Semis? You know it won't be the final because Nadal is finally back up to snuff. Oh, and this is clay.
-I love how the U.S. always loses in World Cup prelims and then go on this magical run in the Cup tourney. (nervous laughter)
-One win only told me one thing about D-Howard and his mates. The didn't want to be completely humiliated. They've already been utterly embarrassed. So the C's took their collective foots off the pedal for one game? (one quarter really) It won't happen again. They are extra motivated now that they didn't sweep. In other questioning, where's all that Vin-sanity rejuvenation now? I thought so.
-Speaking of the new millennium Houdini,
You know what that space was? It was the thunderous roaring of the crowd from another dominate game from Andrew Bynum. Kristic. Yes. Stoudemire. Not so much. You'll get em next year when they are watching you torch Oden for 16 and 8, and they start comparing you to Moses. Malone that is, but I wouldn't be surprised by these deep throaters AKA analysts for any Laker game.
-Cano still sucks. He has managed to go from leading the league in hitting to battling Swisher in a higher average contest. Once again, if we remove the surrounding Hall of Famers, again tell me how good this kid would be? And that's all of them. A-Rod, Jeter, Posada(maybe), Tex(maybe), Pettite, and Mo. Put him on the Reds and he still would get overshadowed. Garbage, I'm telling you. The Yankee faithful are giving this kid a free pass and I can't believe it.
-Bay's hitting. Reyes is hitting. The pitching is still coming in by the innings. Morale is up. Go Mets.
-The Flyers are playing unbelievably well right now. Kind of reminds me of the Rays run in baseball a couple years back. The only problem is, the Hawks better mirror them. Is this a dooming sign for Chicago. Well that, and Phil Jackson 86ing any thought of coaching a Chicago team sans MJ and Scottie. Then subsequently stating that the Nets opening is intriguing. Somewhere in L.A. Kobe is sulking with his arms crossed.
-The Medowlands got the 2014 SB!!!! There is so much hysteria up here over this that you would have thought we all got a share of an infinite lottery. Who cares? I'm not going and neither are the majority of these revelers. All this means is a billion more people on top of the billion that are already here. Which sucks for me.
Til next time.
-You're lucky Yanks. Baker was looking strong like bull last night. Yeah, yeah Burnett was matching him pitch for pitch, but Burnett would have eventually lost control. And as the Yankee announcers have constantly, apparently just to mock me, let us know throughout EVERY Yankee-Twins game, you know, the Twins pitchers pound the strike zone. They are a constant at the top of the rankings in fewest team walks. (that was Michael Kay and Co.) Now we just have to keep this momentum through today. Two wins in a day against the Yanks would guaranteeingly put us on a roll.
-So which round will Roddick break our hearts? Third? Quarters? Semis? You know it won't be the final because Nadal is finally back up to snuff. Oh, and this is clay.
-I love how the U.S. always loses in World Cup prelims and then go on this magical run in the Cup tourney. (nervous laughter)
-One win only told me one thing about D-Howard and his mates. The didn't want to be completely humiliated. They've already been utterly embarrassed. So the C's took their collective foots off the pedal for one game? (one quarter really) It won't happen again. They are extra motivated now that they didn't sweep. In other questioning, where's all that Vin-sanity rejuvenation now? I thought so.
-Speaking of the new millennium Houdini,
You know what that space was? It was the thunderous roaring of the crowd from another dominate game from Andrew Bynum. Kristic. Yes. Stoudemire. Not so much. You'll get em next year when they are watching you torch Oden for 16 and 8, and they start comparing you to Moses. Malone that is, but I wouldn't be surprised by these deep throaters AKA analysts for any Laker game.
-Cano still sucks. He has managed to go from leading the league in hitting to battling Swisher in a higher average contest. Once again, if we remove the surrounding Hall of Famers, again tell me how good this kid would be? And that's all of them. A-Rod, Jeter, Posada(maybe), Tex(maybe), Pettite, and Mo. Put him on the Reds and he still would get overshadowed. Garbage, I'm telling you. The Yankee faithful are giving this kid a free pass and I can't believe it.
-Bay's hitting. Reyes is hitting. The pitching is still coming in by the innings. Morale is up. Go Mets.
-The Flyers are playing unbelievably well right now. Kind of reminds me of the Rays run in baseball a couple years back. The only problem is, the Hawks better mirror them. Is this a dooming sign for Chicago. Well that, and Phil Jackson 86ing any thought of coaching a Chicago team sans MJ and Scottie. Then subsequently stating that the Nets opening is intriguing. Somewhere in L.A. Kobe is sulking with his arms crossed.
-The Medowlands got the 2014 SB!!!! There is so much hysteria up here over this that you would have thought we all got a share of an infinite lottery. Who cares? I'm not going and neither are the majority of these revelers. All this means is a billion more people on top of the billion that are already here. Which sucks for me.
Til next time.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
It's 10 pm. Do you know where your mama is?
So on the heels of the revelation of Delonte' West knocking down mama James (atleast now I know why he was so off against the C's), I read this morning that Amare' Stoudamire's mom's was pulled over with glassy eyes for straddling the driving lanes and speeding. Or, as we'll soon find out, drinking and driving. This is already bad enough, but Carrie Mae is supposed to have a court ordered ignition interlock device on all vehicles she commandeers. She told the officers shoe didn't know she needed it on her rented Navigator. Really? That's about a valid of an argument as Plaxico thinking it was ok to come strapped in a NY night club, or Agent Asshole bringing gats to the arena. She's lucky though that it was just drinking and driving, and not walking and breathing. I mean, it was Arizona. She could get deported for the latter.
So with that, on to the conclusion of our free agent free for all.....
Bosh
So this could be the most up in the air choice ever. Every ounce of me sees him going back home to Texas. He would be a phenomenal force beside Dirk (who will re-sign BTW), and will give a PG the chance to average 10-12 assists a night. We all know Cuban is tired of losing and needs to win now because his franchise player is a few years away from McGradytown. And he'll have the greenbacks to pay Bosh the salary he will command. But that's the thing, will Bosh go for a winner? Or will he simply go for the win, in the bank sense. Because if so, New York or New Jeruse will be the winner. This Russian owner truly seems as if he is all about basketball and his recent acknowledgement that Kiki is gone shows me he wants to win. Hell, he has to sell tickets to compensate for his, Ratner's, and Hov's big money sitting in the Brooklyn move. The last scenario would come in the form of the Cavs slashing all of their un-needed talent and breaking the bank on Bosh. A Bosh-James combo would be the epitome of devastating. For the League that is. Final verdict-the Mavs.
Joe Johnson
I'm not sure why I even am writing anything on this guy. He is a good shooter, but not someone I would even take over Michael Redd. And that's right now. Johnson is not even in the arena during big games and I'm not sure if spending big money on him is a plausible option. There is one team dumb enough to do it though and I can almost guarantee that they will. I think I did just see him looking for real estate near the Garden. And he'll be an ok complement to the Tony Parker. Oh you didn't know he was coming to the Knicks. He is, because George Hill is the one who will lead the post Big 3 Spurs into the next generation. Although, depending on what Wade does, he could end up in Miami or Chicago. All of these teams need capable 2 guards, and that is one way I would describe him, capable. Final verdict- Knickerbockers
Ray Allen
If he doesn't re-sign in Boston, which I think he will, for two years with only the first guaranteed, then he could also be a Maverick. They need a shooter to spread the floor so Dirk can attempt to grab maybe a rebound a game.
Final verdict- Boston
Shaq
Just retire already! But he won't, and he also could end up in Dallas or, wait for it, back in Miami.
Final Verdict- Dallas (for alot less money)
and lastly,
David Lee
I really hope he signs with someone who appreciates his intangibles. This guy is a beast and plays hard every minute he's on the floor. He has wasted the early portion of his career on the Knicks and deserves to be on a contender. The ideal place for him, with a nice 4 year deal, in Chicago. Having the ability to play his game and not be entirely depended upon for offense would fit him nicely. And the activity around the basket with he and Noah would be annoying to opponents.
Final verdict- Chicago
So with that, on to the conclusion of our free agent free for all.....
Bosh
So this could be the most up in the air choice ever. Every ounce of me sees him going back home to Texas. He would be a phenomenal force beside Dirk (who will re-sign BTW), and will give a PG the chance to average 10-12 assists a night. We all know Cuban is tired of losing and needs to win now because his franchise player is a few years away from McGradytown. And he'll have the greenbacks to pay Bosh the salary he will command. But that's the thing, will Bosh go for a winner? Or will he simply go for the win, in the bank sense. Because if so, New York or New Jeruse will be the winner. This Russian owner truly seems as if he is all about basketball and his recent acknowledgement that Kiki is gone shows me he wants to win. Hell, he has to sell tickets to compensate for his, Ratner's, and Hov's big money sitting in the Brooklyn move. The last scenario would come in the form of the Cavs slashing all of their un-needed talent and breaking the bank on Bosh. A Bosh-James combo would be the epitome of devastating. For the League that is. Final verdict-the Mavs.
Joe Johnson
I'm not sure why I even am writing anything on this guy. He is a good shooter, but not someone I would even take over Michael Redd. And that's right now. Johnson is not even in the arena during big games and I'm not sure if spending big money on him is a plausible option. There is one team dumb enough to do it though and I can almost guarantee that they will. I think I did just see him looking for real estate near the Garden. And he'll be an ok complement to the Tony Parker. Oh you didn't know he was coming to the Knicks. He is, because George Hill is the one who will lead the post Big 3 Spurs into the next generation. Although, depending on what Wade does, he could end up in Miami or Chicago. All of these teams need capable 2 guards, and that is one way I would describe him, capable. Final verdict- Knickerbockers
Ray Allen
If he doesn't re-sign in Boston, which I think he will, for two years with only the first guaranteed, then he could also be a Maverick. They need a shooter to spread the floor so Dirk can attempt to grab maybe a rebound a game.
Final verdict- Boston
Shaq
Just retire already! But he won't, and he also could end up in Dallas or, wait for it, back in Miami.
Final Verdict- Dallas (for alot less money)
and lastly,
David Lee
I really hope he signs with someone who appreciates his intangibles. This guy is a beast and plays hard every minute he's on the floor. He has wasted the early portion of his career on the Knicks and deserves to be on a contender. The ideal place for him, with a nice 4 year deal, in Chicago. Having the ability to play his game and not be entirely depended upon for offense would fit him nicely. And the activity around the basket with he and Noah would be annoying to opponents.
Final verdict- Chicago
Monday, May 17, 2010
Cleveland rocks?
Since everyone, including they Grandmama are chiming in on the upcoming free agency free for all (especially now that the fan based tone has changed to "Why should we care about who's still playing?", mainly because LeBron is out of the playoffs), I figured why shouldn't I give my input. I, as we all know, represent the true variable when it comes to stars deciding their ultimate destination. I am a FAN! I have the most "knowledge" of anyone out there. Yeah it may base it self solely around my love for the (Indiana) Pacers, but so what? I don't see any of them coming to town anyways. That is if we even have a team next year. Why is it that my teams are always on the block. First it was the Twins, now the Pacers. Hey Buffalo, I'd start winning and doing it soon or you'll be singing a new national anthem at home games. (Ladies and Gentlemen your Toronto Bills?) Yet, I digress. For this edition I'll simply write a bunch of nonsense, eventually giving my take on where players will end up and why. And I'll try my best to stick to Unrestricted FA, but I can't promise anything.
Mr. 2010
I, like most, can not see LeBron leaving. Besides the fact that he is Cleveland's Mauer, actually that comparison in itself is why I think he is staying put. One thing I can say about LBJ is that he's loyal. That's one thing he made for certain by shunning all these new-age agencies and sticking with the boys that got him to the level to go number 1. So what if they weren't BAR certified agents. They have your complete best interests in mind and you, there's. Is that not what an agent should be? So add to that his $30 million dollar compound on the outskirts of Cleveland and you'll see why he'll pull a Mauer and sign a (modest) hometown discount and eventually stay. Oh best believe there will be changes though. I can not say honestly that Mike Brown is the reason they failed in this year's playoffs, but someone has to take the blame. And that person won't be Number 23 (or 6?). Expect Jamison, Shaq, Z, and maybe even Mo Williams and his incredible disappearing act, to all have new homes next year. This will be a revamped Cleveland squad, and I can see a sign and trade venture bringing into town the big man and PG that he needs to win. Who they will be I'm not quite sure because their best option (Boozer) burned this bridge a long time ago. Maybe they can put the past behind them and just play for the sake of a Championship. Boozer is too iffey for me though, and I am not sure LBJ will appreciate him taking days off. If they can't fill their needs in quality time, then expect James to sign in Brooklyn, er NJ. Which of course will leave Cleveland reeling like mein Deutschland, who just saw their chances for a World Cup title all but get shot down.
Update: The more I have thought about this the more I suspect that James may bolt. Mauer had an easy choice because we have built a productive, capable of winning team around him. So I say this with the utmost certainty, if James doesn't get an AS big man capable of double teams and a PG who distributes and doesn't disappear in the big game then he's gone. Why wouldn't he? Does he owe Cleveland so much that he is willing to sacrifice career success at it's highest level. Because if he isn't putting himself in the best position to win then what's the point? No one goes into their field to just make it. People go in expecting to come out on top. Wouldn't he be doing himself a disservice by staying with another sub par supporting cast? Wouldn't the Cavs brass also be doing the same if they don't break the bank? And the fans booed him for crying out loud!
Now as far a Wade, that's a little more guaranteed. Seeing that the Heat have the cap room for the supporting cast and Riles is threatening his yearly comeback to coaching, I suspect that the Heat are anticipating on doing whatever they need to do in order to keep Wade in Miami. They will get a big man, I believe Amare', especially after how the Lake Show made easy work of the Suns last night, or Boozer, and a PG who will come via sign and trade. not sure who that will be, but it will happen. if not, then expect Wade to go to Chicago and dominate with Rose and Co. What if the Heat signed Bosh?! Oh, man.
I have to say though that I initially thought that LBJ's best destination would have also been Chicago, regardless of how much i think Noah blows. But then my brother broke down a valid point. Why would LBJ digress his legacy just to go the Bulls? He can win elsewhere and he wouldn't have to deal with that huge "Monkey on his back" i.e. Jordan's big ass statue outside. Lebron is good enough to have his own statue. Is Wade? Yeah, but he has ties to Chicago, hell he's Jordan's new face of Jumpman. He should be the prodigal son to return Chitown back to glory. Of course this is all saying that he will turn down the billions Miami will throw at him. And considering he is being sued by not only his bonkers ex, but also partners in a failed business deal to the tune of $25 million, I don't believe he has a choice. The Bulls might end up with Joe Johnson and Bosh. Or they absolutely won't.......more on this tomorrow.
Mr. 2010
I, like most, can not see LeBron leaving. Besides the fact that he is Cleveland's Mauer, actually that comparison in itself is why I think he is staying put. One thing I can say about LBJ is that he's loyal. That's one thing he made for certain by shunning all these new-age agencies and sticking with the boys that got him to the level to go number 1. So what if they weren't BAR certified agents. They have your complete best interests in mind and you, there's. Is that not what an agent should be? So add to that his $30 million dollar compound on the outskirts of Cleveland and you'll see why he'll pull a Mauer and sign a (modest) hometown discount and eventually stay. Oh best believe there will be changes though. I can not say honestly that Mike Brown is the reason they failed in this year's playoffs, but someone has to take the blame. And that person won't be Number 23 (or 6?). Expect Jamison, Shaq, Z, and maybe even Mo Williams and his incredible disappearing act, to all have new homes next year. This will be a revamped Cleveland squad, and I can see a sign and trade venture bringing into town the big man and PG that he needs to win. Who they will be I'm not quite sure because their best option (Boozer) burned this bridge a long time ago. Maybe they can put the past behind them and just play for the sake of a Championship. Boozer is too iffey for me though, and I am not sure LBJ will appreciate him taking days off. If they can't fill their needs in quality time, then expect James to sign in Brooklyn, er NJ. Which of course will leave Cleveland reeling like mein Deutschland, who just saw their chances for a World Cup title all but get shot down.
Update: The more I have thought about this the more I suspect that James may bolt. Mauer had an easy choice because we have built a productive, capable of winning team around him. So I say this with the utmost certainty, if James doesn't get an AS big man capable of double teams and a PG who distributes and doesn't disappear in the big game then he's gone. Why wouldn't he? Does he owe Cleveland so much that he is willing to sacrifice career success at it's highest level. Because if he isn't putting himself in the best position to win then what's the point? No one goes into their field to just make it. People go in expecting to come out on top. Wouldn't he be doing himself a disservice by staying with another sub par supporting cast? Wouldn't the Cavs brass also be doing the same if they don't break the bank? And the fans booed him for crying out loud!
Now as far a Wade, that's a little more guaranteed. Seeing that the Heat have the cap room for the supporting cast and Riles is threatening his yearly comeback to coaching, I suspect that the Heat are anticipating on doing whatever they need to do in order to keep Wade in Miami. They will get a big man, I believe Amare', especially after how the Lake Show made easy work of the Suns last night, or Boozer, and a PG who will come via sign and trade. not sure who that will be, but it will happen. if not, then expect Wade to go to Chicago and dominate with Rose and Co. What if the Heat signed Bosh?! Oh, man.
I have to say though that I initially thought that LBJ's best destination would have also been Chicago, regardless of how much i think Noah blows. But then my brother broke down a valid point. Why would LBJ digress his legacy just to go the Bulls? He can win elsewhere and he wouldn't have to deal with that huge "Monkey on his back" i.e. Jordan's big ass statue outside. Lebron is good enough to have his own statue. Is Wade? Yeah, but he has ties to Chicago, hell he's Jordan's new face of Jumpman. He should be the prodigal son to return Chitown back to glory. Of course this is all saying that he will turn down the billions Miami will throw at him. And considering he is being sued by not only his bonkers ex, but also partners in a failed business deal to the tune of $25 million, I don't believe he has a choice. The Bulls might end up with Joe Johnson and Bosh. Or they absolutely won't.......more on this tomorrow.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Col-lapses in heart
So whom should I rip apart first? The gutless Pens, who let a undermanned Cinderella beat you down at home to advance. Or the rest of the Cavs, for playing like the second tier players they are labeled as and coming up short in Game 5? Let's start off with Crosby's kids.
So I won't mention how the Habs have taken out the Caps and Penguins. (the two best teams in the regular season BTW) Instead, I will focus primarily on the pluses and minuses, so to speak, on why this outcome was inevitable. First off, the one thing the Pens should have taken from Montreal's first round triumph over Washington was how hard the Habs played the Caps. They were physical and unflinching. The Penguins came out soft, played harder in the middle games, and then thought talent alone would prevail over shear guts. Maybe in the financial sector, but this is hockey. I believe that after Crosby's blink and he's gone penalty that led off the game immediately threw him off of his game. This of course exasperated his frustration; an anger that pigeon-holed him into ending up with just one goal. In the series. Problem is Malkin could only match that total. Two goals from your premiere players will not, and did not get it done.
Now to the folks that earned the recognition and are still playing. I must say kudos to Montreal for becoming the first team since the new playoff system was put in place, to take out the President's trophy winner and defending Stanley Cup champs back to back. This is the equivalent of the Bobcats taking out the Cavs (well before the second round. More on that later) and the Lake Show consecutively. Amazing. High fives to Cammalleri and the netminder Halak for unbelievable playoff play so far. I love hearing about new players! And the fact that they completely upstaged Malkin and Crosby makes it even crazier. So here's to the Habs. Not only for shutting down the penguins, but doing it without their top defensive player. And here's to the Penguins for pulling a G-Men and losing with utter embarrassment in your stadiums swan song. The real kicker would be if the Flyers upset the Bruins tonight. Oh man, the Habs taking out both Penn squads. Sounds enticing.
Now to the other choker. No, not LeBron because bottom line, he is allowed to have an off game. I don't think he half-assed it. I just believe that this is what happens when an entire franchise is based on one player scoring in bunches. I, just as most, have no idea what caused LebBron to have such a piss poor game. My guess would be something completely unbasketball related. Bottom line is he had an off game and there was no one else to shoulder the load. Shaq is too old and out of shape. Jamison's shoulders are too hurt to carry a t-shirt, let alone a team. And we all know about Mo's playoff disappearing act. Mike had Scottie. Dream had Clyde. Shaq had Kobe. Duncan had Park...err Ginobili. Isiah had Joe. Magic had Kareem. Bird had McHale. LeBron....uhh..Z? Exactly. When your star has an off game, there has to be someone else to pick up the slack. Jamison has always been a dodger when it comes to the spotlight so he was a non-issue. So what happens now. Well simply, LBJ can't have another game like this. The critics say go harder, then go harder. If you don't, well ball game. The C's have been here before and I can't see them choking. All I've seen LBJ do these situations (beyond that historical night against Detroit), is come up short. What I do know is if this turns out to be another turnover laden, no help contest like last game, my next blog entry could very well be about where LeBron, and all these soon-to-be free agents, ends up this summer.
So I won't mention how the Habs have taken out the Caps and Penguins. (the two best teams in the regular season BTW) Instead, I will focus primarily on the pluses and minuses, so to speak, on why this outcome was inevitable. First off, the one thing the Pens should have taken from Montreal's first round triumph over Washington was how hard the Habs played the Caps. They were physical and unflinching. The Penguins came out soft, played harder in the middle games, and then thought talent alone would prevail over shear guts. Maybe in the financial sector, but this is hockey. I believe that after Crosby's blink and he's gone penalty that led off the game immediately threw him off of his game. This of course exasperated his frustration; an anger that pigeon-holed him into ending up with just one goal. In the series. Problem is Malkin could only match that total. Two goals from your premiere players will not, and did not get it done.
Now to the folks that earned the recognition and are still playing. I must say kudos to Montreal for becoming the first team since the new playoff system was put in place, to take out the President's trophy winner and defending Stanley Cup champs back to back. This is the equivalent of the Bobcats taking out the Cavs (well before the second round. More on that later) and the Lake Show consecutively. Amazing. High fives to Cammalleri and the netminder Halak for unbelievable playoff play so far. I love hearing about new players! And the fact that they completely upstaged Malkin and Crosby makes it even crazier. So here's to the Habs. Not only for shutting down the penguins, but doing it without their top defensive player. And here's to the Penguins for pulling a G-Men and losing with utter embarrassment in your stadiums swan song. The real kicker would be if the Flyers upset the Bruins tonight. Oh man, the Habs taking out both Penn squads. Sounds enticing.
Now to the other choker. No, not LeBron because bottom line, he is allowed to have an off game. I don't think he half-assed it. I just believe that this is what happens when an entire franchise is based on one player scoring in bunches. I, just as most, have no idea what caused LebBron to have such a piss poor game. My guess would be something completely unbasketball related. Bottom line is he had an off game and there was no one else to shoulder the load. Shaq is too old and out of shape. Jamison's shoulders are too hurt to carry a t-shirt, let alone a team. And we all know about Mo's playoff disappearing act. Mike had Scottie. Dream had Clyde. Shaq had Kobe. Duncan had Park...err Ginobili. Isiah had Joe. Magic had Kareem. Bird had McHale. LeBron....uhh..Z? Exactly. When your star has an off game, there has to be someone else to pick up the slack. Jamison has always been a dodger when it comes to the spotlight so he was a non-issue. So what happens now. Well simply, LBJ can't have another game like this. The critics say go harder, then go harder. If you don't, well ball game. The C's have been here before and I can't see them choking. All I've seen LBJ do these situations (beyond that historical night against Detroit), is come up short. What I do know is if this turns out to be another turnover laden, no help contest like last game, my next blog entry could very well be about where LeBron, and all these soon-to-be free agents, ends up this summer.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Giving Respect When it's Due
Congratulations....A-Rod. Not for your history tying homer, but for removing all doubt in my questioning as if you truly are a jerk. Instead of using Braden's unbelievable Perfect Game (only the 19th in the history of the game) as a springboard to squashing this back and forth between he and Dallas, Mr. Ego goes and trumps anything Arenas' punk ass could have done by showing that bitterness prevails over all. I don't care if you are Hank Aaron, Pete Rose, or Cynthia Rodriguez, give respect when respect is due to a man that achieves perfection at his craft. Good news though is that Rodriguez is on the wrong side of his career and Braden should have a productive career long after a washed-up A-Rod is campaigning for a team to sign him, a'la Bonds a couple seasons ago. Karma is a bitch A-Rod and Dallas' perfection should show you that. As much as he pretends not to care (although I love his Rays quip), Alex does. No one likes getting shown up. When do the Yanks play the A's again? I can't wait because this sparring match is not over. Point to Humility/Braden
In more baseball tidbits:
-David Wright is striking out waaaay too much. Check these stats so far on the young season. 108 AB 29 hits 41 K's. 41!!! That's a strike out every 2 and half at bats. How do you get half of an at bat? Not sure, but regardless D-Wright is approaching Rob Deer numbers. At a pace of 40% of your at bats and Bay so far a no show, thank God the pitching is holding up and your catchers and a Rook are saving your ass. If the Mets weren't completely overachieving, then this would definitely be highlighted. Do you understand that if he keeps this up his whiff total will reach the notorious 200 mark? That's with an average of 500 at bats. That's at bat total is annual for him. The sad part is his OnBase% is at .400. Makes you think what if.
-The Mariners finally fired their hitting coach and subsequently scored 8 runs on their way to a blow out victory. This is always an interesting phenomenon when teams react this way. Let's see how they do over the next week or two. Then we'll know whether it was the coach or the players.
I'll comment on Tiger briefly. See A-Rod's predicament. Karma is karma. Ba-leeve dat.
Congrats to Tim Clark who went 206 matches before wining his first PGA tournament. And he had to comeback from 7 shots back! See what happens when ol' Hounddog is indisposed? We get feel good stories like Lefty winning the Green jacket for his wife and Clark ending a tournament drought that could parallel a desert. Here's to Tiger "healing" and coming back more Tiger-ish.
Lastly, I would like to present a large middle-finger-you to the masses for not recognizing what Rondo is doing for the C's. The Big 3 are a Medicaid setback from being done and Rondo is single handily keeping them afloat. Did you see his stat like from Sunday? 29/18/13! Really?! And this was his fourth triple-double in the playoffs. Wow! If bitch ass Tony Parker or even Lebron would have done this the media would be blowing all over themselves. But because it is from a self assure, supposed fourth best player, then we just get a small clip. This is history right now so all you CP3, Day-ron, DRose lovers. Recognize that the best true PG in the game just might be in Beantown. Oh and Boston, that's Rondo with an R, not an H.
In more baseball tidbits:
-David Wright is striking out waaaay too much. Check these stats so far on the young season. 108 AB 29 hits 41 K's. 41!!! That's a strike out every 2 and half at bats. How do you get half of an at bat? Not sure, but regardless D-Wright is approaching Rob Deer numbers. At a pace of 40% of your at bats and Bay so far a no show, thank God the pitching is holding up and your catchers and a Rook are saving your ass. If the Mets weren't completely overachieving, then this would definitely be highlighted. Do you understand that if he keeps this up his whiff total will reach the notorious 200 mark? That's with an average of 500 at bats. That's at bat total is annual for him. The sad part is his OnBase% is at .400. Makes you think what if.
-The Mariners finally fired their hitting coach and subsequently scored 8 runs on their way to a blow out victory. This is always an interesting phenomenon when teams react this way. Let's see how they do over the next week or two. Then we'll know whether it was the coach or the players.
I'll comment on Tiger briefly. See A-Rod's predicament. Karma is karma. Ba-leeve dat.
Congrats to Tim Clark who went 206 matches before wining his first PGA tournament. And he had to comeback from 7 shots back! See what happens when ol' Hounddog is indisposed? We get feel good stories like Lefty winning the Green jacket for his wife and Clark ending a tournament drought that could parallel a desert. Here's to Tiger "healing" and coming back more Tiger-ish.
Lastly, I would like to present a large middle-finger-you to the masses for not recognizing what Rondo is doing for the C's. The Big 3 are a Medicaid setback from being done and Rondo is single handily keeping them afloat. Did you see his stat like from Sunday? 29/18/13! Really?! And this was his fourth triple-double in the playoffs. Wow! If bitch ass Tony Parker or even Lebron would have done this the media would be blowing all over themselves. But because it is from a self assure, supposed fourth best player, then we just get a small clip. This is history right now so all you CP3, Day-ron, DRose lovers. Recognize that the best true PG in the game just might be in Beantown. Oh and Boston, that's Rondo with an R, not an H.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Here's to advancement.....
So a quick edition today. This should wrap up faster than D-Wade's divorce trial.....(screeeech), uh not so much, as Ms. Ex-DWade just filed a lawsuit against the Union. No, not the NBA Union, but Gabrielle Union, the actress/new girlfriend. Apparently the ex's beef is with her kissing and hugging Wade in front of his kids. Did you read that: HIS kids. They are also his children and isn't that what he should be doing with his lady friend. Before you think I am siding with Wade, let me tell you this. I have read a few accounts of this story and three matching points from all led me to the same conclusion. She's bitter. Why, I'll tell you. First, he has tried to settle multiple times out of court, offers which she repeatedly turned down. Knowing that they are former high school sweethearts tells me that the man I believe Wade to truly be would have offered, I am sure, a nice meaty package (no pun intended). Though, I don't personally know Wade so I could be wrong. He could be low-balling her. But I doubt it. Secondly, he wants custody of the kids. She won't give it. As lady Dunn point blank told me, "She ain't giving up them kids. No real mother would." I think she is keeping them for the alimony and child support. Maybe not, but how many NBA father's do you see fighting for the right to raise their children? Wade explains that her mental instability is one of the main contributing factors in him wanting custody. How do I know this to be a certainty? Because Ex-Wade told her lawyers (her third set of representation BTW*), that his dating Union has caused emotional strife and stress to their children. If this were the case, would he really want them? Wouldn't the kids be completely against it? Maybe they are, maybe they aren't. This all brings me to my final point, Why even bring Gabrielle Union in it? Ex-Wade stated that her strong willed movie characters and sexual deviance's on screen have led to an eerie life-imitating-art kind of result. Or, those were characters in film and ex-Wade hasn't got a leg to stand on. Regardless, it is all a little crazy. All I know is this is very convenient considering Basketball Wives on VH1 (produced by Shaq's ex BTW) is getting no ratings. LOL But seriously, I smell a need to move on here. J/S
More to come as this develops.
*Because the first two removed themselves from the case citing "irreconcilable differences". Isn't this the reason for a divorce in the first place? How strong of a case does she have if even those representing her are bailing for lack of a valid argument?
In much better news, I am so proud of Milton Bradley for seeking help. Seriously. This is America and despite my beloved Virginia going by the wayside because of ignorant representation, I believe that all people should be given the benefit of help when they recognize that they have a problem. Milton used to be just crazy. Now I see that it's so much more. Raised in an inner city, single mom who worked hellish hours and couldn't pay bills, a constant need to succeed as a way of payback to said mother. I can't help but to understand him seeing that those also explained my upbringing. Am I crazy? No. Opinionated? Very. Simply put, I just see Bradley finally for what he is. The great part is, finally, so did he. Good luck buddy.
On a final note, to touch somewhat on the title, KUDOS!!!!! to the Suns for wearing the now even more socially conscious Los Suns jerseys. Lady Dunn stated this was a must do because alot of their fan base is Hispanic. Regardless, and this is all I will publicly say on the matter, regardless of what race you are, this entire country was generated on immigrants. How is it our right to deny them the rights that our ancestors, well half of my ancestors, or none of my ancestors if you ask Va's new government, had. Yes we live in different times, but in a rotten world this is the one thing I find great about America. Through all the turmoil this truly is the still the country that allows anyone to make it. ANYONE. So should we have safe guards? Of course. But asking a Mexican if he has papers is racist. Bottom-line.
More to come as this develops.
*Because the first two removed themselves from the case citing "irreconcilable differences". Isn't this the reason for a divorce in the first place? How strong of a case does she have if even those representing her are bailing for lack of a valid argument?
In much better news, I am so proud of Milton Bradley for seeking help. Seriously. This is America and despite my beloved Virginia going by the wayside because of ignorant representation, I believe that all people should be given the benefit of help when they recognize that they have a problem. Milton used to be just crazy. Now I see that it's so much more. Raised in an inner city, single mom who worked hellish hours and couldn't pay bills, a constant need to succeed as a way of payback to said mother. I can't help but to understand him seeing that those also explained my upbringing. Am I crazy? No. Opinionated? Very. Simply put, I just see Bradley finally for what he is. The great part is, finally, so did he. Good luck buddy.
On a final note, to touch somewhat on the title, KUDOS!!!!! to the Suns for wearing the now even more socially conscious Los Suns jerseys. Lady Dunn stated this was a must do because alot of their fan base is Hispanic. Regardless, and this is all I will publicly say on the matter, regardless of what race you are, this entire country was generated on immigrants. How is it our right to deny them the rights that our ancestors, well half of my ancestors, or none of my ancestors if you ask Va's new government, had. Yes we live in different times, but in a rotten world this is the one thing I find great about America. Through all the turmoil this truly is the still the country that allows anyone to make it. ANYONE. So should we have safe guards? Of course. But asking a Mexican if he has papers is racist. Bottom-line.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
May Day?
Is it time to abandon ship? Well, maybe. There are a couple of teams/players that are having early season troubles and are an injury away from phoning in 2010. I am not saying they can't turn it around, but early forecasts look bleak. Who are these teams/individuals you ask? Heck, I'll tell ya.
This may be too early into the season to dissect, but there should definitely be panic in the Nation. Your ace (newly resigned Beckett) has done nothing but get shelled, and you're already placing your hopes on a youngster (Buchholz), and a vet who is coming off of a major injury (Matsuzaka). Lackey has been ok (he beat my Twins), but not nearly enough to stave off a completely done Papi, ageing Varitek, and injuries galore (Ellsbury and Cameron to name a couple). Not to mention Drew, Victor Martinez, and Pedroia aren't hitting consistently yet. Since I am not sold on the Bill Hall/Jeremy Hermida platoon, unless their pitching starts to come around, abandon ship is right. Although seeing how the Rays can't lose and the Yanks are the Yanks, hope might need some help like the words if, maybe, or probably. (Yes, I did just incorporate Andre 3000 in my blog) Good luck Francona.
BTW, I am assuming those who chose Cano as AL player of the month didn't read my most recent blog entry. They should have. If so, then they wouldn't have been completely wrong in their pick.
Also, a quick aww shucks to the Royals for demoting Alex Gordon to the minors. He has not hit over 16 taters or batted over .280 in any one season, and number 1 pick or not, that just ain't getting it done. Something smells very Delmon Young about him. Maybe he'll turn it around eventually like Delmon has shown this season. Maybe not. I'm hoping for the latter. Unless he comes to Minny. Actually no thanks. We've had our fill of disappointing talent. See Santana trade.
Now there were a couple of people that pulled a Red Sox and almost made me leave them out of this edition. Quick "just-barely" noms to Peavy (yesterday's shutdown performance most certainly helped), D-Train (great game against my Twinkies no doubt. But we see him again tonight so he could get right back on the list), and Grady Sizemore (batting like .100 and might have a couple RBI's, if any). I would include the rookie Heyward (he hasn't quite made the adjustment, but does have 7 homers already), but he is only 20.
Now that we have the underachievers out of the way, here's a tip of the 'ol cap to those impressing the pants off of me right now.(My chinos are sans on my legs as we speak).
My two utter surprises are the Mets starting pitching and two rookies. The first, here's to Manual and the Mets brass for sticking with youngsters who had the talent, but had problems pitching consistently game to game. Santana (his usual self, minus the Philly game) and Pelfrey (finally finding his rhythm, also minus the Philly game)are a major reason the Mets aren't already out of it. And extra kudos must be presented to their young, overachieving pen. Mejia (1.50) and Nieve (2.81) both pitched their way onto the team in Spring Training and haven't disappointed. Feliciano (0.71!!) seems like he is rewarding the Mets for keeping him as their only holdover from the mid-2000's pen that sucked dick. And please pay attention to Ike Davis. He is THAT good. He could very well steal ROY right from under Heyward's nose. Unless of course Strasburg (promoted to AAA) decides not to pitch until August, which will never happen considering the Nats tough play so far.
Just for my main man Marbles, I must say I never expected Jaime Garcia (3-1, 1.13 ERA) to develop this quickly, but Jesus!, this kid is killing. Speaking of shutdown performance. Where exactly were the mighty Phils last night? Not in the batters box.
Lastly, my I-told-you-so dominate effort so far this season goes to two people. First, my Mauer replacement Wilson Ramos. 7 for 9, 3 extra base hits, and his first RBI, all in the first two games! Yeah, I said we needed to figure out what to do with him and I was right. My opinion. Trade him for major 3rd base talent because it seems that Valencia is never gonna see the Show. We need help at third like yesterday. Who's our starter? Uh Punto, Harris, sometimes Cuddyer, the rookie Luke Hughes? Exactly. We are solid everywhere else. Now if we could just find a player good enough. My pick is.....Valencia. And trade Ramos for a front of the line starter because Baker is no more than a 3 and Liriano is our only ace. If we are to compete with the Yanks, Rays, and M's we need a true number 2.
Second, Ethier from the Dodgers. Remember last season when Manny was killing and then got suspended. This of course led to a domino effect of lackluster play offensively from most of the Dodgers batters. All that is, except Ethier. Here we are now in 2010 and it seems as if times have not changed so much. Manny is out and all those hot bats have cooled, most notably Kemp, who I big uped in an earlier blog entry. All, that is, except Ethier. All he's done in Manny's absence is post Triple Crown numbers(as of May 3rd), leading the NL in homers, RBI's, and average. His sweet swing should be talked about more. He'll be an All-Star this year and in coming year's. Hey, does he play 3B?
This may be too early into the season to dissect, but there should definitely be panic in the Nation. Your ace (newly resigned Beckett) has done nothing but get shelled, and you're already placing your hopes on a youngster (Buchholz), and a vet who is coming off of a major injury (Matsuzaka). Lackey has been ok (he beat my Twins), but not nearly enough to stave off a completely done Papi, ageing Varitek, and injuries galore (Ellsbury and Cameron to name a couple). Not to mention Drew, Victor Martinez, and Pedroia aren't hitting consistently yet. Since I am not sold on the Bill Hall/Jeremy Hermida platoon, unless their pitching starts to come around, abandon ship is right. Although seeing how the Rays can't lose and the Yanks are the Yanks, hope might need some help like the words if, maybe, or probably. (Yes, I did just incorporate Andre 3000 in my blog) Good luck Francona.
BTW, I am assuming those who chose Cano as AL player of the month didn't read my most recent blog entry. They should have. If so, then they wouldn't have been completely wrong in their pick.
Also, a quick aww shucks to the Royals for demoting Alex Gordon to the minors. He has not hit over 16 taters or batted over .280 in any one season, and number 1 pick or not, that just ain't getting it done. Something smells very Delmon Young about him. Maybe he'll turn it around eventually like Delmon has shown this season. Maybe not. I'm hoping for the latter. Unless he comes to Minny. Actually no thanks. We've had our fill of disappointing talent. See Santana trade.
Now there were a couple of people that pulled a Red Sox and almost made me leave them out of this edition. Quick "just-barely" noms to Peavy (yesterday's shutdown performance most certainly helped), D-Train (great game against my Twinkies no doubt. But we see him again tonight so he could get right back on the list), and Grady Sizemore (batting like .100 and might have a couple RBI's, if any). I would include the rookie Heyward (he hasn't quite made the adjustment, but does have 7 homers already), but he is only 20.
Now that we have the underachievers out of the way, here's a tip of the 'ol cap to those impressing the pants off of me right now.(My chinos are sans on my legs as we speak).
My two utter surprises are the Mets starting pitching and two rookies. The first, here's to Manual and the Mets brass for sticking with youngsters who had the talent, but had problems pitching consistently game to game. Santana (his usual self, minus the Philly game) and Pelfrey (finally finding his rhythm, also minus the Philly game)are a major reason the Mets aren't already out of it. And extra kudos must be presented to their young, overachieving pen. Mejia (1.50) and Nieve (2.81) both pitched their way onto the team in Spring Training and haven't disappointed. Feliciano (0.71!!) seems like he is rewarding the Mets for keeping him as their only holdover from the mid-2000's pen that sucked dick. And please pay attention to Ike Davis. He is THAT good. He could very well steal ROY right from under Heyward's nose. Unless of course Strasburg (promoted to AAA) decides not to pitch until August, which will never happen considering the Nats tough play so far.
Just for my main man Marbles, I must say I never expected Jaime Garcia (3-1, 1.13 ERA) to develop this quickly, but Jesus!, this kid is killing. Speaking of shutdown performance. Where exactly were the mighty Phils last night? Not in the batters box.
Lastly, my I-told-you-so dominate effort so far this season goes to two people. First, my Mauer replacement Wilson Ramos. 7 for 9, 3 extra base hits, and his first RBI, all in the first two games! Yeah, I said we needed to figure out what to do with him and I was right. My opinion. Trade him for major 3rd base talent because it seems that Valencia is never gonna see the Show. We need help at third like yesterday. Who's our starter? Uh Punto, Harris, sometimes Cuddyer, the rookie Luke Hughes? Exactly. We are solid everywhere else. Now if we could just find a player good enough. My pick is.....Valencia. And trade Ramos for a front of the line starter because Baker is no more than a 3 and Liriano is our only ace. If we are to compete with the Yanks, Rays, and M's we need a true number 2.
Second, Ethier from the Dodgers. Remember last season when Manny was killing and then got suspended. This of course led to a domino effect of lackluster play offensively from most of the Dodgers batters. All that is, except Ethier. Here we are now in 2010 and it seems as if times have not changed so much. Manny is out and all those hot bats have cooled, most notably Kemp, who I big uped in an earlier blog entry. All, that is, except Ethier. All he's done in Manny's absence is post Triple Crown numbers(as of May 3rd), leading the NL in homers, RBI's, and average. His sweet swing should be talked about more. He'll be an All-Star this year and in coming year's. Hey, does he play 3B?
Friday, April 30, 2010
God I hate Cano
Thank you all for your patience. Between acting rehearsals and wedding planning, Hay Dios Mio, there's not enough Dunn to go around. But here I am back to complain. And oh aren't there so many reasons. Tiger looks like a jerk with that goatee (BTW, so he confessed to Elin that the total number of infidelities is now 120. Does it matter? 1 or 120. Tiger, women don't care which it is. Ask MJ.) In addition to this blasphemy, what's the deal with Gordon getting his panties all in a bunch because JJ hurt his only chance for a win. You know what Jeff, get better. Than you won't have to wait to win. Crybaby.
Also, I must comment, briefly albeit, on the Caps collapse. This should be talked about more. This has new era Dallas Mavericks written all over it. And irony is alive and well looking at the now ended Spurs/Mavs series. Sorry no knowledgeable hockey match up to compare. Maybe the Sharks recent meltdowns, but this was 3-1! No way the Caps should have lost. And what happened? Did the Canadiens really want it that much more? Doubtful. Dirk..ehemm...sorry, Ovechkin simply could not do it all on his own. After being held without a SOG in game 1, Washington should have known something was up. Instead of adjusting accordingly they decided to take the 'ol this-can't-possibly-happen-again-in-a-million-years-approach and sat idly by whilst(love that word) Montreal decided to go all Red Sawx on them and take out the champ. Or should I say supposed Champ. My new pick: Blackhawks babay!
Now for the true purpose of this blog. I debated heavily if I should write what Lee suggested and talk about the lack of black athletes in boxing. Or was it baseball? Regardless, half of me is losing representation in two major sports. The RBI program can't possibly help it all, can it? Well Howard did just get $125 million, so maybe it can. More on this in a future entry. Instead, I decided to talk about the athletes that I hate. I love to complain about everything in sports and these "good" players, for whatever reasons, just haven't been able to convince me that they are worthy. My perception can be changed so don't think I am simply a hater. I hated Neyo the singer. I thought he was being force fed down my throat because their just weren't any other R&B singers out there. Are you truly good if you are the only one? A question T-Pain should ask himself. Eventually Neyo convinced me through an interview that he is just a guy who likes music and tries to make it to the best of his ability. Fine. I'll take that. I just think these athletes are all garbage for their very own personal reasons, which I will detail. This will start with the players I only kind of dislike and will end with a full meltdown on Robinson Cano. It actually just angered me to even type his name.
First up: Andrew Bynum/Joakim Noah
They get coupled in a category simply because essentially they embody the kind of garbage play/announcer love that only Varajao or Bruce Bowen could have garnered. First Bynum.
Has there ever been a more garbage player who the Association thought was a beast? Before you answer, ask yourself this question. Since Bynum has come into the league, when he hasn't been injured (which is always), name me one All-Star caliber, no, not even, name me one average CENTER (Not PF masking as C, but true C) he has dominated? Anyone? Anyone? And Nenad Kristic definitely doesn't fucking count. (Waiting patiently as the Jeopardy theme plays) Any? Exactly. None. He is the softest, weakest, most untested, shrinking when the game is on the line, big man I have ever seen. And you're reading someone who witnessed the Kwame Brown, Darko, Oden, AND Never Nervous Pervis fiasco's. He whines when he's touched. A 14 and 7 night is a BIG deal for him, AND he plays in an era where it is widespread knowledge that the true Center is an endangered position. He plays with the best player in the game (barely) right now, another big man who can shoot or play inside, who's an All-Star himself BTW which causes the other teams big to leave Bynum for a better player, and he still can't dominate. Regardless how much shorter or lighter the comp is. Bynum is a soft bitch and because of my hatred for him I won't even get into Noah. I will say this about Noah though. If Florida didn't have Brewer and Horford to help them win b2b National Championships, Noah wouldn't even have gotten drafted. Now he has the balls to question the Cavs? Get serious Noah. Make 1 jumper. Just 1, and then you can compare games. And I am not talking about Noah in the Monte' Ellis sense. A player who was so good that a rookie made him instantly trade bait and insignificant. Yeah you're a beast Ellis. To the Ellis family.
Before I get to the most overrated player in the history of sports please let me send huge F.U.'s to these players who could have gotten a comment or two, but the human brain doesn't have that much of an attention span. So, Redskins version of McNabb, T.O., Romo, the Cowboys, and the Bills brass, your NFL time will come.
Til then....
Oh Robinson Cano, how I loathe thee. Has there ever been a player in a more forgiving situation who thought that being surrounded by HofF talent actually made you one? Maybe Wes Welker? Or Bruce Bowen? Or Derek Fisher? No, they don't come close. Cano is garbage. Why you ask? Because he has had constant protection around him since he joined the Yankees. And how hard is it to play on a team that I could start 2nd base for? If you can remotely hit a fastball you can thrive in his position. Having Jete, Tex, Posada, Matsui, A-Rod, and Damon all hitting before you will get you a lot of fastballs. The pitcher is so worried about the other true All-Stars (not Torre picking you because of favoritism, but true All-Stars), he is ready to burn right through Cano, Nady, Swisher, Cairo, Gardner, and what ever other filler is down there. Ok, so you hit a few solid shots over that Little League porch in right. Congrats. Here's my proof that he sucks. Put Cano on any other team. Matter of fact, switch him with Hill form the Jays and try to tell me that you would have even heard of Cano by now. The only reason anyone knows who he is is because he plays for the Yanks. He would be a .275/18/78 guy a season easily away from the confines of the Bronx. Is that an All-Star? Maybe if he was the lone rep from the Pirates. And I know for a fact he couldn't beat out McCutcheon or maybe even Lastings. Well Lastings might have been a stretch, but you get the point. Please debate me on this issue because I love to bash this guy. The League, and myself, will be much happier when he finally loses his spot on the team. Until then, I guess I'll have to endure you. Did I just quote Edward Cullen? I wish a vampire was here to massacre Cano. Oh dreams. Til Monday.
Also, I must comment, briefly albeit, on the Caps collapse. This should be talked about more. This has new era Dallas Mavericks written all over it. And irony is alive and well looking at the now ended Spurs/Mavs series. Sorry no knowledgeable hockey match up to compare. Maybe the Sharks recent meltdowns, but this was 3-1! No way the Caps should have lost. And what happened? Did the Canadiens really want it that much more? Doubtful. Dirk..ehemm...sorry, Ovechkin simply could not do it all on his own. After being held without a SOG in game 1, Washington should have known something was up. Instead of adjusting accordingly they decided to take the 'ol this-can't-possibly-happen-again-in-a-million-years-approach and sat idly by whilst(love that word) Montreal decided to go all Red Sawx on them and take out the champ. Or should I say supposed Champ. My new pick: Blackhawks babay!
Now for the true purpose of this blog. I debated heavily if I should write what Lee suggested and talk about the lack of black athletes in boxing. Or was it baseball? Regardless, half of me is losing representation in two major sports. The RBI program can't possibly help it all, can it? Well Howard did just get $125 million, so maybe it can. More on this in a future entry. Instead, I decided to talk about the athletes that I hate. I love to complain about everything in sports and these "good" players, for whatever reasons, just haven't been able to convince me that they are worthy. My perception can be changed so don't think I am simply a hater. I hated Neyo the singer. I thought he was being force fed down my throat because their just weren't any other R&B singers out there. Are you truly good if you are the only one? A question T-Pain should ask himself. Eventually Neyo convinced me through an interview that he is just a guy who likes music and tries to make it to the best of his ability. Fine. I'll take that. I just think these athletes are all garbage for their very own personal reasons, which I will detail. This will start with the players I only kind of dislike and will end with a full meltdown on Robinson Cano. It actually just angered me to even type his name.
First up: Andrew Bynum/Joakim Noah
They get coupled in a category simply because essentially they embody the kind of garbage play/announcer love that only Varajao or Bruce Bowen could have garnered. First Bynum.
Has there ever been a more garbage player who the Association thought was a beast? Before you answer, ask yourself this question. Since Bynum has come into the league, when he hasn't been injured (which is always), name me one All-Star caliber, no, not even, name me one average CENTER (Not PF masking as C, but true C) he has dominated? Anyone? Anyone? And Nenad Kristic definitely doesn't fucking count. (Waiting patiently as the Jeopardy theme plays) Any? Exactly. None. He is the softest, weakest, most untested, shrinking when the game is on the line, big man I have ever seen. And you're reading someone who witnessed the Kwame Brown, Darko, Oden, AND Never Nervous Pervis fiasco's. He whines when he's touched. A 14 and 7 night is a BIG deal for him, AND he plays in an era where it is widespread knowledge that the true Center is an endangered position. He plays with the best player in the game (barely) right now, another big man who can shoot or play inside, who's an All-Star himself BTW which causes the other teams big to leave Bynum for a better player, and he still can't dominate. Regardless how much shorter or lighter the comp is. Bynum is a soft bitch and because of my hatred for him I won't even get into Noah. I will say this about Noah though. If Florida didn't have Brewer and Horford to help them win b2b National Championships, Noah wouldn't even have gotten drafted. Now he has the balls to question the Cavs? Get serious Noah. Make 1 jumper. Just 1, and then you can compare games. And I am not talking about Noah in the Monte' Ellis sense. A player who was so good that a rookie made him instantly trade bait and insignificant. Yeah you're a beast Ellis. To the Ellis family.
Before I get to the most overrated player in the history of sports please let me send huge F.U.'s to these players who could have gotten a comment or two, but the human brain doesn't have that much of an attention span. So, Redskins version of McNabb, T.O., Romo, the Cowboys, and the Bills brass, your NFL time will come.
Til then....
Oh Robinson Cano, how I loathe thee. Has there ever been a player in a more forgiving situation who thought that being surrounded by HofF talent actually made you one? Maybe Wes Welker? Or Bruce Bowen? Or Derek Fisher? No, they don't come close. Cano is garbage. Why you ask? Because he has had constant protection around him since he joined the Yankees. And how hard is it to play on a team that I could start 2nd base for? If you can remotely hit a fastball you can thrive in his position. Having Jete, Tex, Posada, Matsui, A-Rod, and Damon all hitting before you will get you a lot of fastballs. The pitcher is so worried about the other true All-Stars (not Torre picking you because of favoritism, but true All-Stars), he is ready to burn right through Cano, Nady, Swisher, Cairo, Gardner, and what ever other filler is down there. Ok, so you hit a few solid shots over that Little League porch in right. Congrats. Here's my proof that he sucks. Put Cano on any other team. Matter of fact, switch him with Hill form the Jays and try to tell me that you would have even heard of Cano by now. The only reason anyone knows who he is is because he plays for the Yanks. He would be a .275/18/78 guy a season easily away from the confines of the Bronx. Is that an All-Star? Maybe if he was the lone rep from the Pirates. And I know for a fact he couldn't beat out McCutcheon or maybe even Lastings. Well Lastings might have been a stretch, but you get the point. Please debate me on this issue because I love to bash this guy. The League, and myself, will be much happier when he finally loses his spot on the team. Until then, I guess I'll have to endure you. Did I just quote Edward Cullen? I wish a vampire was here to massacre Cano. Oh dreams. Til Monday.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
The week that still is
What a sports weeks! Everything that is possible happened in every sport. Hat tricks, No-Hitters, Retirements, Signings, Suspensions, AND Roethlisberger got suspended 6 games! I exclaimed that simply out of hate. Really. This is the second girl he has "raped". Why doesn't society realize just how much of a creep this guy is. These assholes would probably let their virgin sister camp out at one of his Hang with Big Ben fan sleepovers. As his sister shows up the next day, a much more tormented person than the day previous, this asshole is sitting there wondering why not only why was his sister the only person who showed up, but why he wasn't also invited. Big Ben is a creep and karma will come.... guns blazing. Phew, now that I got that out, how bout some ranting.....
Lorena Ochoa retired from the LPGA this week, citing the need to start a family. So is that what we're calling it on the women's side? Tiger just admitted to banging mad girls. Having only consistently seen one female golfer that shared Ochoa's dominance, I have to only assume that she's doing as Tiger did. The same as in having sex with mad women. Because Sorenstam was a lesbot. Get that?
Speaking of retiring, the Pats signed Torry Holt this week to a 1-year deal. So after this FA signing, mark that as another FA signing with an AFC East team. And, that team once again is not the Buffalo Bills. Got it. Just keeping score here.
Not to be outdone, the Jets signed their own aging beast, Jason Taylor to a 2 year deal. Hmh. Scratch that. Other AFC East teams: a billion signings. Buffalo: zero. Thanks Bills.
As much as I have enjoyed watching Sid the Kid toy with the opposition in his new quest to overtake Gretzky as the best ever, instead of just becoming a great player, I have just slightly less enjoyed watching Papi's utter collapse, Sosa-style, right before my eyes. "I didn't never take steroids!" Is that what he said? Maybe not, but it should have been. Then I would have chalked up his blatant lie as complete ignorance. Seeing that Volquez just somewhat derailed his career by taking the wrong Dominican drug in an effort to heal more rapidly from Tommy John surgery,(in my own opinion BTW) I can only assume that Papi was seeing the same quack. This is what you get for leaving the Twins, Ortiz. Enjoy. Ask Marty Cordova, Chuck Knobluach, Jacque Jones, Eric Milton, and Corey Koskie. It's a curse. Watch out Garza and Bartlett. Or should I say Rays?
In extra kudos, high fives to Matt Kemp for leading the NL in RBIs(through Tuesday) and to Rihanna for leading the music industry in back shots taken. Here's to both of you in finally finding your swing. Yahtzee!
Lastly I'd like to express my remorse for the International athletes that risked their lives in order to trek across land and sea, just to lose in the Boston Marathon. I mean if it was the New York I'd get it. At least you would be in NY. Hope it was worth it. And you still can't get back home. Idiots.
Lorena Ochoa retired from the LPGA this week, citing the need to start a family. So is that what we're calling it on the women's side? Tiger just admitted to banging mad girls. Having only consistently seen one female golfer that shared Ochoa's dominance, I have to only assume that she's doing as Tiger did. The same as in having sex with mad women. Because Sorenstam was a lesbot. Get that?
Speaking of retiring, the Pats signed Torry Holt this week to a 1-year deal. So after this FA signing, mark that as another FA signing with an AFC East team. And, that team once again is not the Buffalo Bills. Got it. Just keeping score here.
Not to be outdone, the Jets signed their own aging beast, Jason Taylor to a 2 year deal. Hmh. Scratch that. Other AFC East teams: a billion signings. Buffalo: zero. Thanks Bills.
As much as I have enjoyed watching Sid the Kid toy with the opposition in his new quest to overtake Gretzky as the best ever, instead of just becoming a great player, I have just slightly less enjoyed watching Papi's utter collapse, Sosa-style, right before my eyes. "I didn't never take steroids!" Is that what he said? Maybe not, but it should have been. Then I would have chalked up his blatant lie as complete ignorance. Seeing that Volquez just somewhat derailed his career by taking the wrong Dominican drug in an effort to heal more rapidly from Tommy John surgery,(in my own opinion BTW) I can only assume that Papi was seeing the same quack. This is what you get for leaving the Twins, Ortiz. Enjoy. Ask Marty Cordova, Chuck Knobluach, Jacque Jones, Eric Milton, and Corey Koskie. It's a curse. Watch out Garza and Bartlett. Or should I say Rays?
In extra kudos, high fives to Matt Kemp for leading the NL in RBIs(through Tuesday) and to Rihanna for leading the music industry in back shots taken. Here's to both of you in finally finding your swing. Yahtzee!
Lastly I'd like to express my remorse for the International athletes that risked their lives in order to trek across land and sea, just to lose in the Boston Marathon. I mean if it was the New York I'd get it. At least you would be in NY. Hope it was worth it. And you still can't get back home. Idiots.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Random like a baby with Tourette's
One day hockey and the next, basketball. How I love April and the sign of the end of the insignificant sports. This of course dawning a shining light on the next four months of Americas game! And my Twins are rolling. Problem is, so is the Phillies. Can they lose? I submit that they cannot.
So before I give my NBA picks I have to comment briefly about T-Mac's impending retirement. Oh you haven't heard of it? Well he just released a statement stating how if he couldn't get back to top notch form then he would rather retire. Ladies and gentlemen, introducing the beginning of the end of the high-school-to-NBA era. T-Mac will lead, and Kobe, Rashard Lewis, Kendrick Perkins, KG, Tyson Chandler, and Eddy Curry will soon follow. People do not understand that these guys started playing when they were 18-19 years old. Long before their bodies had even fully developed. Now those knees have taken 13-15 years worth of constant running and grinding. None of these guys will last to age 35, and they shouldn't. Now we'll truly see if not going to college will be a help or a hindrance for life after the NBA. Remember, unless they invested well, this League money won't last forever. So happy trails T-Mac because there is no way you are regaining anything close to NBA Starter form. Sorry. But thanks for the memories.
Here we go....
So I had started to write an entire breakdown of the match ups and life got in the way. Considering now that it is Monday and games have started I figured the NBA just gave me a mulligan. Seeing that most of these first round match ups are complete yawners (Magic-Bobcats/Jazz-Nuggets) unless of course you are a fan of said teams, analyzing outcomes seems like a better route. So again, but on a different route, here we go....
Ooohh did you see Garnett miss Q Rich with that elbow. I didn't know that missing with a punch constituted a suspension. And how do we know he was even going after Q? That seemed more like a defensive swinging elbow that could have connected with anyone nearby. This was not at all the sliding J. O'Neal full connection that we had in the Pacers/Pistons scrap. Being that it caused a mini Knicks-Heat mid 90's circle jerk helps me partly understand the suspension, but as I heard millions of times like it was a top ten pop hit the geniuses have deemed Garnett the "Emotional Leader" of the Celtics. If that's the case, shouldn't we expect this. And if you are billing a guy for that mantra shouldn't he deliver. I guarantee if Garnett would have walked off and little Nate would have gone all Napoleon on an opponent, Nate would suddenly be re-deemed crazy and would be out the rest of the first round, and Garnett would be "smart" for walking away. How does this add up? Chalk it up to KG being a veteran? I guess. Celtics are still winning this series. Just probably not the next. DWade made it apparent that he couldn't do everything himself.
Oh man the Bobcats almost beat the Magic. They won't get this close again. Clean sweep.
No Kirilenko means what you just saw this weekend. Melo is gonna average 40 with no D on him. Boozer, Millsap, and whomever else are all too slow. AND they just lost Okur. That equates to another clean sweep. Well, maybe Day-ron can provide an unbelievable game to get them one in Salt Lake. But that's it.
The other series don't matter so we'll revisit in round two.
In something I have to add simply because this is the most random entry yet, the Niners added Ginn Jr. to complement Crabtree. So this is how you answer your receiving problems? Add an unproven college star opposite the exact same thing? Hmm. And this happened because Ginn became expendable when he decided to suck dick his first two seasons in Miami. He ran terrible routes and couldn't catch or get seperation when he did finish one, further proving to be no kind of offensive threat. How do I know? I had him on my fantasy team last year. Every week he gave me nothing. The week he did do something (returned two kicks back; both over 100 yards), I sat him. Screw Ginn. Good riddens.
Two people let me know two very different view points that this brings up. First, my good pal Arthur, a man for whom I consult on all hilarious 80's movie trivia quotes (BTW, how funny, and utterly unbelievable is the ice block breaking scene in Karate Kid 2!) and underground hip hip comparisons (Yes, I heard Skills '09 rap-up, as solid as the others), and is a true Niners fan, calmly summed it up by stating "I can't believe we signed this loser! We already have an underachieving WR." My sentiments exactly. Secondly, Abijah states that the Dolphins losing Ginn, yet gaining Brandon Marshall, coupled with the Jets two year revamp, compounds the fact that the Bills have only gotten worse, as everyone else in the AFC East has vastly improved. Are we the new Lions? God I hope not. Vick/Tebow '10. PLEASE!!!!
So before I give my NBA picks I have to comment briefly about T-Mac's impending retirement. Oh you haven't heard of it? Well he just released a statement stating how if he couldn't get back to top notch form then he would rather retire. Ladies and gentlemen, introducing the beginning of the end of the high-school-to-NBA era. T-Mac will lead, and Kobe, Rashard Lewis, Kendrick Perkins, KG, Tyson Chandler, and Eddy Curry will soon follow. People do not understand that these guys started playing when they were 18-19 years old. Long before their bodies had even fully developed. Now those knees have taken 13-15 years worth of constant running and grinding. None of these guys will last to age 35, and they shouldn't. Now we'll truly see if not going to college will be a help or a hindrance for life after the NBA. Remember, unless they invested well, this League money won't last forever. So happy trails T-Mac because there is no way you are regaining anything close to NBA Starter form. Sorry. But thanks for the memories.
Here we go....
So I had started to write an entire breakdown of the match ups and life got in the way. Considering now that it is Monday and games have started I figured the NBA just gave me a mulligan. Seeing that most of these first round match ups are complete yawners (Magic-Bobcats/Jazz-Nuggets) unless of course you are a fan of said teams, analyzing outcomes seems like a better route. So again, but on a different route, here we go....
Ooohh did you see Garnett miss Q Rich with that elbow. I didn't know that missing with a punch constituted a suspension. And how do we know he was even going after Q? That seemed more like a defensive swinging elbow that could have connected with anyone nearby. This was not at all the sliding J. O'Neal full connection that we had in the Pacers/Pistons scrap. Being that it caused a mini Knicks-Heat mid 90's circle jerk helps me partly understand the suspension, but as I heard millions of times like it was a top ten pop hit the geniuses have deemed Garnett the "Emotional Leader" of the Celtics. If that's the case, shouldn't we expect this. And if you are billing a guy for that mantra shouldn't he deliver. I guarantee if Garnett would have walked off and little Nate would have gone all Napoleon on an opponent, Nate would suddenly be re-deemed crazy and would be out the rest of the first round, and Garnett would be "smart" for walking away. How does this add up? Chalk it up to KG being a veteran? I guess. Celtics are still winning this series. Just probably not the next. DWade made it apparent that he couldn't do everything himself.
Oh man the Bobcats almost beat the Magic. They won't get this close again. Clean sweep.
No Kirilenko means what you just saw this weekend. Melo is gonna average 40 with no D on him. Boozer, Millsap, and whomever else are all too slow. AND they just lost Okur. That equates to another clean sweep. Well, maybe Day-ron can provide an unbelievable game to get them one in Salt Lake. But that's it.
The other series don't matter so we'll revisit in round two.
In something I have to add simply because this is the most random entry yet, the Niners added Ginn Jr. to complement Crabtree. So this is how you answer your receiving problems? Add an unproven college star opposite the exact same thing? Hmm. And this happened because Ginn became expendable when he decided to suck dick his first two seasons in Miami. He ran terrible routes and couldn't catch or get seperation when he did finish one, further proving to be no kind of offensive threat. How do I know? I had him on my fantasy team last year. Every week he gave me nothing. The week he did do something (returned two kicks back; both over 100 yards), I sat him. Screw Ginn. Good riddens.
Two people let me know two very different view points that this brings up. First, my good pal Arthur, a man for whom I consult on all hilarious 80's movie trivia quotes (BTW, how funny, and utterly unbelievable is the ice block breaking scene in Karate Kid 2!) and underground hip hip comparisons (Yes, I heard Skills '09 rap-up, as solid as the others), and is a true Niners fan, calmly summed it up by stating "I can't believe we signed this loser! We already have an underachieving WR." My sentiments exactly. Secondly, Abijah states that the Dolphins losing Ginn, yet gaining Brandon Marshall, coupled with the Jets two year revamp, compounds the fact that the Bills have only gotten worse, as everyone else in the AFC East has vastly improved. Are we the new Lions? God I hope not. Vick/Tebow '10. PLEASE!!!!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
White Men Can't Lump
So I was all set to talk about the hockey playoffs and give my picks, but two other stories have overwhelmed the sports section of my brain like the sweetest greenery, just after reading them this morning. First, GO UK BABY. My off season of discontent has suddenly busted a hard right towards Yayville! We just managed to not only wrap up the number one recruit of '10, but also the top junior recruit in the nation. They want to be teammates! Yay, brotherhood. So now that I truly believe we are losing FIVE players (including Orton, a frosh whom I loved and would have developed into a monster had he waited a couple years), this gives some solace in the idea that we will compete next year. And the one year after. Then, hopefully, more shifty Cal recruits.
Second story: So how do we know that the Bulls have officially hit rock bottom, D Rose needs to bail, Del Negro needs the boot, and D-Wade would be wise to stay at South Beach? Because MJ's 90's bitch teammate Paxson, and Vinny D reportedly had a rather intense shoving match and verbal altercation over too many minutes given to a top tier player. Top-tier player! Joakim fucking Noah!!!!! Seriously. He sucks dick. It's as simple as that. So the story is Paxson wanted to limit Noah's minutes because he sees him as a staple of their long term plans. (wheels screeching) Really. Long term plans! That should end it right there. If Noah is the answer to any long term plan, even if it's to find the ugliest person in the NBA, who also happens to be the most garbage, and named Joakim Noah, I still wouldn't pick him. I'd take a mulligan. Del Negro should be fired for playing him too much. There wasn't a fan in the stands who could have subbed in? I'm sure John Salley is out there somewhere. Hell, he banged hard in Eddie. Here's to the Bulls guarateeingly never advancing deep in the playoffs. Well, there's some hope for the Pacers.
Now the main event. I'll do this quick like because I have so much work to do to night, I shouldn't be writing this much.
East
Washington v. Montreal
Caps are rolling the Nation. Ovechkin is simply too much and their offense is potent as hell. Caps in 5.
New Jersey v. Philadelphia
The Devils will win, not because they are the higher seed, but because ever since the Olympics I have totally hearted Zach Parise. The Flyers do have the momentum, but the skill is what they lack. Devils in 5.
Buffalo v. Boston
This was the hardest for me to pick simply because of the netminders. Miller gives the Sabres a slight edge, but do not sleep on the Bruins brutal D. They pound hard and can knock you out if you're not looking. But, I think Miller is simply too good of a goalie, and the Bruins just don't have the offense. Sabres in 6.
Pittsburgh v. Ottawa
Malkin + Sid = Not a match. Pens in 5.
West
San Jose v. Colorado
Oh the days when the Avalanche were mighty. I loved hockey then. And with the way the Sharks play like the Mavs in BB come playoff time, there is reason for concern. But the way we are playing right now, especially after making me pay attention as we fought for, and took, the number 1 seed leads me to believe that this is the year baby. Or, next year. But the first round is easy. Colorado is simply too young. Sharks in 5.
Chicago v. Nashville
Kane + good team = win. Hawks in 6.
Vancouver v. Los Angeles
The popular upset is this seeding. I think not. I love Luongo. Sorry. Canucks in 6.
Phoenix v. Detroit
League owned team could send fireworks soaring through the desert air if they beat the NHL's Yankees. But, considering that reference it won't happen. Yet. Wings in 6.
These are set in stone people. Til tomorrow.
Second story: So how do we know that the Bulls have officially hit rock bottom, D Rose needs to bail, Del Negro needs the boot, and D-Wade would be wise to stay at South Beach? Because MJ's 90's bitch teammate Paxson, and Vinny D reportedly had a rather intense shoving match and verbal altercation over too many minutes given to a top tier player. Top-tier player! Joakim fucking Noah!!!!! Seriously. He sucks dick. It's as simple as that. So the story is Paxson wanted to limit Noah's minutes because he sees him as a staple of their long term plans. (wheels screeching) Really. Long term plans! That should end it right there. If Noah is the answer to any long term plan, even if it's to find the ugliest person in the NBA, who also happens to be the most garbage, and named Joakim Noah, I still wouldn't pick him. I'd take a mulligan. Del Negro should be fired for playing him too much. There wasn't a fan in the stands who could have subbed in? I'm sure John Salley is out there somewhere. Hell, he banged hard in Eddie. Here's to the Bulls guarateeingly never advancing deep in the playoffs. Well, there's some hope for the Pacers.
Now the main event. I'll do this quick like because I have so much work to do to night, I shouldn't be writing this much.
East
Washington v. Montreal
Caps are rolling the Nation. Ovechkin is simply too much and their offense is potent as hell. Caps in 5.
New Jersey v. Philadelphia
The Devils will win, not because they are the higher seed, but because ever since the Olympics I have totally hearted Zach Parise. The Flyers do have the momentum, but the skill is what they lack. Devils in 5.
Buffalo v. Boston
This was the hardest for me to pick simply because of the netminders. Miller gives the Sabres a slight edge, but do not sleep on the Bruins brutal D. They pound hard and can knock you out if you're not looking. But, I think Miller is simply too good of a goalie, and the Bruins just don't have the offense. Sabres in 6.
Pittsburgh v. Ottawa
Malkin + Sid = Not a match. Pens in 5.
West
San Jose v. Colorado
Oh the days when the Avalanche were mighty. I loved hockey then. And with the way the Sharks play like the Mavs in BB come playoff time, there is reason for concern. But the way we are playing right now, especially after making me pay attention as we fought for, and took, the number 1 seed leads me to believe that this is the year baby. Or, next year. But the first round is easy. Colorado is simply too young. Sharks in 5.
Chicago v. Nashville
Kane + good team = win. Hawks in 6.
Vancouver v. Los Angeles
The popular upset is this seeding. I think not. I love Luongo. Sorry. Canucks in 6.
Phoenix v. Detroit
League owned team could send fireworks soaring through the desert air if they beat the NHL's Yankees. But, considering that reference it won't happen. Yet. Wings in 6.
These are set in stone people. Til tomorrow.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Close, but no cigar
First and foremost, screw Tiger Woods. Who says that Tiger winning the Masters would have to be the best story ever. Being that I am in the "I love my lady eternally" frame of mind being recently engaged, I have to say that Lefty winning it after suffering through his wife's cancer for the last year, is not only a better story, but much more special. So what if your main attraction slept with half the porn industry, probably caught a disease, and then came back to "almost" win. Good for him. Compare that to second fiddle athlete completely overshadows mega-star/adulterer/global icon to win the Masters despite fighting alongside his wife who is battling life threatening cancer. Uh, I'll take the latter. I refuse to celebrate a man who put himself in his own predicament. Phil, way to fight off the field, including a rejuvenated Fred Couples, and win. Those late round birdies were key. Still no four rounds of under 70, but hey you prevailed. At 16 under no less! Congrats. We should celebrate his win, not Tiger's fourth place finish. (Though I will admit, damn, fourth. He is a beast.)
In what the fuck is this, Molsen? news, man oh man. Apologies to Dobbs, but what a finale in this season's race for Rocket Ricard's trophy. Ovechkin just couldn't do EVERYTHING could he? Loser. LOL But let's not dwell on Ovechkin's near tie, lord knows he tried, but let us celebrate the clutchness of Crosby and Stamkos. Crosby scoring two goals to seemingly seal the goals scoring title, and Stamkos getting a lucky as hell empty netter to tie was the type of down-to-the-wire title chasing this sport needs. Good thing Florida couldn't make a game of it or Sid might have had the outright trophy. But no one minds sharing. Right? And as stated, kudos to Alex for trying hard to match with SOG attempt after attempt. He just couldn't get that last wrister. Too bad, so THIS year you won't win the title. Also, extra NYC non-kudos to the Rangers pulling an Iceland in Mighty Ducks 2 and nutting on the last shot in your Shootout to lose not only the game, but your playoff hopes. Or should I be congratulating the Flyers for finally getting past the ghost/stink of Lindros. Either way, nothing good came out of this. Here's to the Sharks making it atleast to the West Finals. If not, I might have to switch teams. Yes, I know, it's against Dunn rules to switch teams, but this team's love was based solely on the color of a 1995 Starter jacket. Not exactly Fallon in Fever Pitch here. Who am I kidding, Caps in 6 over the Blackhawks. I can't believe I just typed Blackhawks. Hey, The Rays made it in MLB so anything can happen.
In NBA news, the Bulls beatdown of the Bosh-less Raptors solidified the last spot in the East, ensuring the Bulls now get the chance to be swept out of the first round by the Cavs. Yay! (Sarcastic enthusiasm) So Bosh, have I mentioned my Pacers ended this season on a great win streak? Well not streak, but we won more in the last month than we did all season so that's got to mean something. After we draft Wall, I'm looking to pick up Bosh. OOOhhhhweeee new campaign! Wall/Bosh '10 for the Pacers. Alongside Granger, what a trio that would represent! Someone get me Donny Walsh....., oh yeah, he's directing the Knicks now. Welp, there that dream went. A dream deferred until next draft. Oh and I am sorry to disappoint, but the Lakers look tired. They will not only not win the West, but will be out in the second round. Print that! Oh, I just did.
Lastly, the Steelers 86'd Santonio and shipped him to my hometown Jets for a fifth round draft pick. The league then swiftly suspended Holmes for the first four games due to violation of the leagues substance abuse policy. Understandable that this will not fly, but please explain to me how was this a good move for the Steelers again? They already had zero receiving options (tell-tell sign? Holmes caught the game winner and was MVP of their last SB win.) They have a QB who can't keep his hands to himself*, was distracted this offseason, and WILL show up bothered by it next season. So then you have THAT to deal with. My main Newport News man Tomlin looks fed up with all of them and that can't be good. Well in better news, the Jets just continued their development into one of the leagues elite. Better on defense, offense, and ST (check Coach Ryan clamoring for Leon to go back to his deadly returning days) all points to a winning team. So long Pats and Dolphins (especially if the latter let their D leader Jason Taylor leave to who else?-the Jets). Notice I didn't put the Bills? Because not only are we already out of it, but they are going gaga over Clausen, knowing that my dream team of Vick/Tebow will be the only thing that will allow us to secure the FA no one is talking about; Brandon f-ing Marshall! We certainly won't get him if we draft Clausen, besides a second round pick will be what we have to give up to get him. Plus, I still have a sour taste in my mouth from when big brother(Jimmy)Clausen was a Vol. You know what, nevermind. According to my buddy Sam, Primetime's homeboy Bryant should be available with that second round pick so we should be fine in the developmental troubled WR front. So here's to the Jets steamrolling the comp. I can't wait for this draft. The speculation is killing me.
*So Roethlisberger didn't get charged. No shit, Sherlock. Was he ever going to be? When the videotape got "recorded over" (of course), that was that. Oh Ben, between face first window smashing motorcycle crashes, and face first vagina plants, your karma has to eventually run out. I hope you are no where near me when it does.
In what the fuck is this, Molsen? news, man oh man. Apologies to Dobbs, but what a finale in this season's race for Rocket Ricard's trophy. Ovechkin just couldn't do EVERYTHING could he? Loser. LOL But let's not dwell on Ovechkin's near tie, lord knows he tried, but let us celebrate the clutchness of Crosby and Stamkos. Crosby scoring two goals to seemingly seal the goals scoring title, and Stamkos getting a lucky as hell empty netter to tie was the type of down-to-the-wire title chasing this sport needs. Good thing Florida couldn't make a game of it or Sid might have had the outright trophy. But no one minds sharing. Right? And as stated, kudos to Alex for trying hard to match with SOG attempt after attempt. He just couldn't get that last wrister. Too bad, so THIS year you won't win the title. Also, extra NYC non-kudos to the Rangers pulling an Iceland in Mighty Ducks 2 and nutting on the last shot in your Shootout to lose not only the game, but your playoff hopes. Or should I be congratulating the Flyers for finally getting past the ghost/stink of Lindros. Either way, nothing good came out of this. Here's to the Sharks making it atleast to the West Finals. If not, I might have to switch teams. Yes, I know, it's against Dunn rules to switch teams, but this team's love was based solely on the color of a 1995 Starter jacket. Not exactly Fallon in Fever Pitch here. Who am I kidding, Caps in 6 over the Blackhawks. I can't believe I just typed Blackhawks. Hey, The Rays made it in MLB so anything can happen.
In NBA news, the Bulls beatdown of the Bosh-less Raptors solidified the last spot in the East, ensuring the Bulls now get the chance to be swept out of the first round by the Cavs. Yay! (Sarcastic enthusiasm) So Bosh, have I mentioned my Pacers ended this season on a great win streak? Well not streak, but we won more in the last month than we did all season so that's got to mean something. After we draft Wall, I'm looking to pick up Bosh. OOOhhhhweeee new campaign! Wall/Bosh '10 for the Pacers. Alongside Granger, what a trio that would represent! Someone get me Donny Walsh....., oh yeah, he's directing the Knicks now. Welp, there that dream went. A dream deferred until next draft. Oh and I am sorry to disappoint, but the Lakers look tired. They will not only not win the West, but will be out in the second round. Print that! Oh, I just did.
Lastly, the Steelers 86'd Santonio and shipped him to my hometown Jets for a fifth round draft pick. The league then swiftly suspended Holmes for the first four games due to violation of the leagues substance abuse policy. Understandable that this will not fly, but please explain to me how was this a good move for the Steelers again? They already had zero receiving options (tell-tell sign? Holmes caught the game winner and was MVP of their last SB win.) They have a QB who can't keep his hands to himself*, was distracted this offseason, and WILL show up bothered by it next season. So then you have THAT to deal with. My main Newport News man Tomlin looks fed up with all of them and that can't be good. Well in better news, the Jets just continued their development into one of the leagues elite. Better on defense, offense, and ST (check Coach Ryan clamoring for Leon to go back to his deadly returning days) all points to a winning team. So long Pats and Dolphins (especially if the latter let their D leader Jason Taylor leave to who else?-the Jets). Notice I didn't put the Bills? Because not only are we already out of it, but they are going gaga over Clausen, knowing that my dream team of Vick/Tebow will be the only thing that will allow us to secure the FA no one is talking about; Brandon f-ing Marshall! We certainly won't get him if we draft Clausen, besides a second round pick will be what we have to give up to get him. Plus, I still have a sour taste in my mouth from when big brother(Jimmy)Clausen was a Vol. You know what, nevermind. According to my buddy Sam, Primetime's homeboy Bryant should be available with that second round pick so we should be fine in the developmental troubled WR front. So here's to the Jets steamrolling the comp. I can't wait for this draft. The speculation is killing me.
*So Roethlisberger didn't get charged. No shit, Sherlock. Was he ever going to be? When the videotape got "recorded over" (of course), that was that. Oh Ben, between face first window smashing motorcycle crashes, and face first vagina plants, your karma has to eventually run out. I hope you are no where near me when it does.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Eye of the "Tiger"
So raise your hands if you saw this coming? OK, so you, you, and the gentleman in the back with the unassuming stare, yes, you as well. Please all lower your hands because no one could have imagined that not only would Tiger perform on Day 1, but that he would set new personal bests in the process. Never had two Eagles in a round? Check. Overcome the largest adversity so far of your career. Check. He received an ovation much more rousing than I would have ever guessed and looked, well, calm on the course. I mean, he even shot the lowest first round of his career. So let me get this straight. Leave your athletic driven profession cold turkey. Go through your worst nightmare (well mine, because we have already broken down how much he could care less about wife and family), so we'll say worst media assassination. Come back on the grandest stage after not participating in your profession in months. What would happen to most of us? A complete meltdown due to an utter lack of focus, skill, and concentration. Tiger's response? So far, dominate like you never left. Who is this guy? An absolute beast in his sport, that's who. Good luck Tiger!
It is also worth mentioning, how exciting is it to see ol' Fred Couples take the early pedestal? I feel like I just fell backwards 20 years. Who's his closet comp? The Shark? Golf, baby. I wish I cared more.
Speaking of beasts, here is my wrap up from a somewhat subdued first week of baseball. (BTW, I think I might just sum up points from the night before when it comes to relaying baseball info. I debated hard about how to do this sport that is played so frequently, and I knew game by game would suck. Let me know what you think. Keep it, or Bleep it?)
-Now to the beast. Sir Albert. Why is he so good? No, that was question. But I'll try and answer as if it were a statement. Not because he led off the season with a two homer game. Not because he is the reason the Cards have started off so well. Simply because of a simple pitch sequence between he and Bronson (Who was named after Charles Bronson. Who Knew?) Arroyo. The Cards had a runner on second. It was a 1-1 ball game, late, and Holliday was up next. What happens? Arroyo manages to just miss the plate with four consecutive pitches, seemingly giving Pujols a free pass and taking his chances on Holliday. Can you get any better respect with out doing so many steroids that you look like Griffey in that old Simpsons baseball episode where Burns hires baseball players to beat his companies, Homer Simpson-led softball team. (Here's looking at you Bonds) This is how. Any erratic batter would have swung out of the zone. It was almost as if Arroyo said "No, Thanks" and Albert politely obliged. Moral of the story, Holliday flew out to end the inning and Gomes hit a 9th inning walk-off to win it for the Redlegs. Respect. The Aretha kind.
-What's with the Twins power display?! I love it, that's what! DYK, we are leading the league in taters so far this season? I have been telling people for years we have a young team and when these kids grow up they are going to terrorize the league. You should have heeded my warning. And to make matters that much better, Thome goes deep! Hardy has already regained the power depleted from him during last year's injury riddled campaign. Thanks Brew Crew for giving up on a guy who averaged 20 homers for three straight years, gets injured and slips, so you ship him off for a person who hasn't, and won't, hit twenty homers in his career. Have I thanked them enough yet? Never! Extra kudos to O-Dog's defense. God he's good and he's already saved four runs for us. In the first four games! Last year Casilla and Punto. This year O-Dog and Hardy. Life is great in Minny.
-So Yanks-Sox take too long. WTF else is new. Get over it. These two teams generate more revenue for the league than every other team combined ( Maybe I'm exaggerating, but it's close). So umps, if you don't like it, call balls, eject, do whatever you have to do to speed it up. If there is nothing else you can do, SHUT THE HELL UP and worry about why your strike zone has been bouncing all over the place!
-Mets. LOL. After Santana. Feces.
-The Nats sure look like they are having fun. Too bad it's not like cool kid Spring Break fun and more like crackhead finally scores and feels momentary euphoria fun. They'll lose 100, again. Good luck next year when Strasburg has a full season to help you.
-Hideki Matsui is a beast. Hands down. The Yanks WILL miss his bat. As much as it pains me to say. God I hate the Yankees.
-Here is the time when I tell you I was completely wrong about a player and you say I told you so. Well, none of us knew, but I'll tell you what. Vlad, injury free, IS A KILLER. Check his stats right now. Has he even gotten out? (Don't worry I did the work for you. He's batting .636. .636!!! I know it's just the first week but, damn.)
-The M's are also euphoric after taking the series from the team that was supposed to beat them this season. Handidly. Oh I'm sorry, wrong letter. I meant the A's. And you're telling me that this is just because of Lee being out? Doubtful. Welcome to the curse of Milton Bradley Seattle.
-Lastly, I must comment on the fact that every time I see the Phillies, they have someone in scoring position. This team truly should not lose a game. Well, not until October that is. Or if they play the Yanks or Sox should I say November? LOL Here's to you and your mega fine Joe West. Even if I completely agree with you.
Til tomorrow.
It is also worth mentioning, how exciting is it to see ol' Fred Couples take the early pedestal? I feel like I just fell backwards 20 years. Who's his closet comp? The Shark? Golf, baby. I wish I cared more.
Speaking of beasts, here is my wrap up from a somewhat subdued first week of baseball. (BTW, I think I might just sum up points from the night before when it comes to relaying baseball info. I debated hard about how to do this sport that is played so frequently, and I knew game by game would suck. Let me know what you think. Keep it, or Bleep it?)
-Now to the beast. Sir Albert. Why is he so good? No, that was question. But I'll try and answer as if it were a statement. Not because he led off the season with a two homer game. Not because he is the reason the Cards have started off so well. Simply because of a simple pitch sequence between he and Bronson (Who was named after Charles Bronson. Who Knew?) Arroyo. The Cards had a runner on second. It was a 1-1 ball game, late, and Holliday was up next. What happens? Arroyo manages to just miss the plate with four consecutive pitches, seemingly giving Pujols a free pass and taking his chances on Holliday. Can you get any better respect with out doing so many steroids that you look like Griffey in that old Simpsons baseball episode where Burns hires baseball players to beat his companies, Homer Simpson-led softball team. (Here's looking at you Bonds) This is how. Any erratic batter would have swung out of the zone. It was almost as if Arroyo said "No, Thanks" and Albert politely obliged. Moral of the story, Holliday flew out to end the inning and Gomes hit a 9th inning walk-off to win it for the Redlegs. Respect. The Aretha kind.
-What's with the Twins power display?! I love it, that's what! DYK, we are leading the league in taters so far this season? I have been telling people for years we have a young team and when these kids grow up they are going to terrorize the league. You should have heeded my warning. And to make matters that much better, Thome goes deep! Hardy has already regained the power depleted from him during last year's injury riddled campaign. Thanks Brew Crew for giving up on a guy who averaged 20 homers for three straight years, gets injured and slips, so you ship him off for a person who hasn't, and won't, hit twenty homers in his career. Have I thanked them enough yet? Never! Extra kudos to O-Dog's defense. God he's good and he's already saved four runs for us. In the first four games! Last year Casilla and Punto. This year O-Dog and Hardy. Life is great in Minny.
-So Yanks-Sox take too long. WTF else is new. Get over it. These two teams generate more revenue for the league than every other team combined ( Maybe I'm exaggerating, but it's close). So umps, if you don't like it, call balls, eject, do whatever you have to do to speed it up. If there is nothing else you can do, SHUT THE HELL UP and worry about why your strike zone has been bouncing all over the place!
-Mets. LOL. After Santana. Feces.
-The Nats sure look like they are having fun. Too bad it's not like cool kid Spring Break fun and more like crackhead finally scores and feels momentary euphoria fun. They'll lose 100, again. Good luck next year when Strasburg has a full season to help you.
-Hideki Matsui is a beast. Hands down. The Yanks WILL miss his bat. As much as it pains me to say. God I hate the Yankees.
-Here is the time when I tell you I was completely wrong about a player and you say I told you so. Well, none of us knew, but I'll tell you what. Vlad, injury free, IS A KILLER. Check his stats right now. Has he even gotten out? (Don't worry I did the work for you. He's batting .636. .636!!! I know it's just the first week but, damn.)
-The M's are also euphoric after taking the series from the team that was supposed to beat them this season. Handidly. Oh I'm sorry, wrong letter. I meant the A's. And you're telling me that this is just because of Lee being out? Doubtful. Welcome to the curse of Milton Bradley Seattle.
-Lastly, I must comment on the fact that every time I see the Phillies, they have someone in scoring position. This team truly should not lose a game. Well, not until October that is. Or if they play the Yanks or Sox should I say November? LOL Here's to you and your mega fine Joe West. Even if I completely agree with you.
Til tomorrow.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
How the West was won? By default.
On to the NL
EAST
The Phillies will not only repeat as champs in this division, but could very well go to a third straight World Series. This is a team that lost Pedro Feliz at third and replaced him with an all-star caliber hitting machine in Jason Kidd's son. Oh, not THAT dome piece, but ex-Tiger Polanco. I swear if he wasn't my height and not hitting out Bret Boone circa 2001 homers I would think he was on steroids. Come to think of it, he did just hit a grand slam. Uh-oh. Someone get me the Mitchell Report. Anyways, they lost great late-season pick up Lee to free agency, but replaced him with the best pitcher now in this division (although yes, it pains me extremely to say so). An absolute innings hoarder who throws complete games like Spring Training warm ups. This team is built to win. And I can't see Rollins having another off year. As long as Hamels is a decent number 2 they'll coast. On to the lowly Mets. I say Sanatana is a shade behind Halladay not because of their on field performance statistics, or pedigree. I say this simply because Santana will have to kill himself to get the Mets in contention because the rest of the assholes behind him can't seem to consistently put it together from game to game. Perez, Maine, Pelfrey, and who cares seem like the dumb ass little brothers. No better yet, henchmen, having just watched Boondock Saints 2(Great BTW), to Santana's mob boss. And just like Yakavetta at the end Santana doesn't stand a chance. Wright will not hit just 10 taters again. I call a revert back to the old David. Problem is Reyes won't get it back until mid season. Just in time for Beltran to come back. That all adds up to more of the same and just not enough season. IF these pitchers can muster some kind of support behind Johan the Mets might not finish dead last. In the majors. The Braves are my surprise Wild Card because I think they'll sneak in. They will steal series', while splitting others, and hang around just long enough that a major injury to the Cubs, Brewers, and Giants will cause the Bravos, yes Bravos, to sneak in. Their pitching, although young in comparison to most staffs, is solid and skilled. And have I talked about Heyward? Jesus what can't I say about this kid. Canon for an arm. Griffey-esque swing and mechanics. Blazing speed. He's like a left handed Hawk. See what the baseball Gods give us when we do right by someone when it comes the Hall? What would happen if we get Blylevan finally in? Or look away and recognize Bonds for his overall talent? Or imagine if Rose were let in? Ooh we might get Pujols/Mauer/Hanley. Yikes. Oh we did. His name is Jason Heyward. The Marlins are just not hungry enough. Hanley is just playing hard because that's his nature, but they will not contend this year.
CENTRAL
The Cards are the NL Twins, as explained in an earlier blog, so they will win this division. I say that of course as long as their arms hold up. Carpenter has had a good run, and knock on wood Marbles, he'll hurl another 200 this year. Wainwright is the most underrated number 2/1 pitcher in the league. Lohse is an ex-Twin so he's in the bag and if they can get anything from the newly acquired Penny, they'll be set to contend if need be in August. The Brewers are the team that I just can't figure out. They're pitching tells me they shouldn't matter, but they're hitting tells me otherwise. The crazy part is, pitching is what they built up this off season. Randy Wolf is apparently good, but I wouldn't want him representing the top of our staff. And this is coming from someone who's teams "ace" most of baseball hasn't even heard of. Fielder is playing for a bigtime deal so expect huge numbers from him. Braun is the next super duper star, based solely on the number of commercials I have already seen him in this morning, and they play great D. If their pitching holds up they'll contend. If not, so long Prince, with Braun soon to follow. Oh and a thousand thank you's to your organization for taking the plague known as Gomez off of our hands. And for an All-Star quality defensive SS in Hardy!? We have know officially wiped the residue left from that horrendous Santana trade completely off of us. No wonder we had to get a new stadium. As far as the Cubis and Reds go. I don't trust the Cubs hitting. All of their stars are another year older and I don't see Soriano turning it around. Simply, they are a Zambrano arm injury away from not contending. The Reds are the up and comer in the NL to me. Solid young core of pitching, with the veteran Harang providing tutelage to the kids. He is a pitcher who just so happens to hold advice on the most critical aspect of pitching, innings eating. Although, with Dusty at the helm they won't have that worry. Just ask Kerry Wood and Mark Prior. Isn't one of their starters out already this year because of Tommy John surgery? It starts now. Get Dusty out before he tears Chapman's arm completely off!
WEST
I care about this division the absolute least because one team doesn't even matter, and the other wouldn't if it were not for dominant pitching. That team, Los Gigantes, has Mr. Everything in Lincecum, a resurgent former Cy Young win (in my opinion), and three other solid pitchers. I like Cains makeup and Sanchez is a productive lefty. If Derosa can generate any run support with Kung Fu Panda then they could threaten to win this division. An injury to the pitching staff and see the Mets breakdown. This division is really all about the Rockies and Dodgers. Torre's bunch will score runs behind Manny, Ethier, Loney, Kemp and their own great young crew. The significant problem they have is with their pitching. Vicente Padilla was your opening day starter? Huh? Where's Kershaw? If I hear another he's-just-not-quite-there-yet talk about this kid I'm going to start believe that it will never come. My main question about this team is which Manny will they get? The usual consistent hitting machine that provides stellar protection in the line-up? Or the declining, could care less, pre-retiree that I have seen recently. If it's the latter, they have some things to worry about. And not just because they are paying him 20 million. I trust Manny won't go out like that, but even if so, it won't be enough. Pitching will let this team down. So that leaves us with the default champ the Colorado Rockies. Not great, not even good in my eyes. But they have depth, solid kids to parallel grizzly vets, and the pitching that will hold up in a weak division. As usual, Rockies win late.
WORLD SERIES
Phillies over Twins
Their pitching will beat our pitching. Simple as that.
Can't wait for Tiger's first strike off the green. Welcome back you ol' Gigalo!
EAST
The Phillies will not only repeat as champs in this division, but could very well go to a third straight World Series. This is a team that lost Pedro Feliz at third and replaced him with an all-star caliber hitting machine in Jason Kidd's son. Oh, not THAT dome piece, but ex-Tiger Polanco. I swear if he wasn't my height and not hitting out Bret Boone circa 2001 homers I would think he was on steroids. Come to think of it, he did just hit a grand slam. Uh-oh. Someone get me the Mitchell Report. Anyways, they lost great late-season pick up Lee to free agency, but replaced him with the best pitcher now in this division (although yes, it pains me extremely to say so). An absolute innings hoarder who throws complete games like Spring Training warm ups. This team is built to win. And I can't see Rollins having another off year. As long as Hamels is a decent number 2 they'll coast. On to the lowly Mets. I say Sanatana is a shade behind Halladay not because of their on field performance statistics, or pedigree. I say this simply because Santana will have to kill himself to get the Mets in contention because the rest of the assholes behind him can't seem to consistently put it together from game to game. Perez, Maine, Pelfrey, and who cares seem like the dumb ass little brothers. No better yet, henchmen, having just watched Boondock Saints 2(Great BTW), to Santana's mob boss. And just like Yakavetta at the end Santana doesn't stand a chance. Wright will not hit just 10 taters again. I call a revert back to the old David. Problem is Reyes won't get it back until mid season. Just in time for Beltran to come back. That all adds up to more of the same and just not enough season. IF these pitchers can muster some kind of support behind Johan the Mets might not finish dead last. In the majors. The Braves are my surprise Wild Card because I think they'll sneak in. They will steal series', while splitting others, and hang around just long enough that a major injury to the Cubs, Brewers, and Giants will cause the Bravos, yes Bravos, to sneak in. Their pitching, although young in comparison to most staffs, is solid and skilled. And have I talked about Heyward? Jesus what can't I say about this kid. Canon for an arm. Griffey-esque swing and mechanics. Blazing speed. He's like a left handed Hawk. See what the baseball Gods give us when we do right by someone when it comes the Hall? What would happen if we get Blylevan finally in? Or look away and recognize Bonds for his overall talent? Or imagine if Rose were let in? Ooh we might get Pujols/Mauer/Hanley. Yikes. Oh we did. His name is Jason Heyward. The Marlins are just not hungry enough. Hanley is just playing hard because that's his nature, but they will not contend this year.
CENTRAL
The Cards are the NL Twins, as explained in an earlier blog, so they will win this division. I say that of course as long as their arms hold up. Carpenter has had a good run, and knock on wood Marbles, he'll hurl another 200 this year. Wainwright is the most underrated number 2/1 pitcher in the league. Lohse is an ex-Twin so he's in the bag and if they can get anything from the newly acquired Penny, they'll be set to contend if need be in August. The Brewers are the team that I just can't figure out. They're pitching tells me they shouldn't matter, but they're hitting tells me otherwise. The crazy part is, pitching is what they built up this off season. Randy Wolf is apparently good, but I wouldn't want him representing the top of our staff. And this is coming from someone who's teams "ace" most of baseball hasn't even heard of. Fielder is playing for a bigtime deal so expect huge numbers from him. Braun is the next super duper star, based solely on the number of commercials I have already seen him in this morning, and they play great D. If their pitching holds up they'll contend. If not, so long Prince, with Braun soon to follow. Oh and a thousand thank you's to your organization for taking the plague known as Gomez off of our hands. And for an All-Star quality defensive SS in Hardy!? We have know officially wiped the residue left from that horrendous Santana trade completely off of us. No wonder we had to get a new stadium. As far as the Cubis and Reds go. I don't trust the Cubs hitting. All of their stars are another year older and I don't see Soriano turning it around. Simply, they are a Zambrano arm injury away from not contending. The Reds are the up and comer in the NL to me. Solid young core of pitching, with the veteran Harang providing tutelage to the kids. He is a pitcher who just so happens to hold advice on the most critical aspect of pitching, innings eating. Although, with Dusty at the helm they won't have that worry. Just ask Kerry Wood and Mark Prior. Isn't one of their starters out already this year because of Tommy John surgery? It starts now. Get Dusty out before he tears Chapman's arm completely off!
WEST
I care about this division the absolute least because one team doesn't even matter, and the other wouldn't if it were not for dominant pitching. That team, Los Gigantes, has Mr. Everything in Lincecum, a resurgent former Cy Young win (in my opinion), and three other solid pitchers. I like Cains makeup and Sanchez is a productive lefty. If Derosa can generate any run support with Kung Fu Panda then they could threaten to win this division. An injury to the pitching staff and see the Mets breakdown. This division is really all about the Rockies and Dodgers. Torre's bunch will score runs behind Manny, Ethier, Loney, Kemp and their own great young crew. The significant problem they have is with their pitching. Vicente Padilla was your opening day starter? Huh? Where's Kershaw? If I hear another he's-just-not-quite-there-yet talk about this kid I'm going to start believe that it will never come. My main question about this team is which Manny will they get? The usual consistent hitting machine that provides stellar protection in the line-up? Or the declining, could care less, pre-retiree that I have seen recently. If it's the latter, they have some things to worry about. And not just because they are paying him 20 million. I trust Manny won't go out like that, but even if so, it won't be enough. Pitching will let this team down. So that leaves us with the default champ the Colorado Rockies. Not great, not even good in my eyes. But they have depth, solid kids to parallel grizzly vets, and the pitching that will hold up in a weak division. As usual, Rockies win late.
WORLD SERIES
Phillies over Twins
Their pitching will beat our pitching. Simple as that.
Can't wait for Tiger's first strike off the green. Welcome back you ol' Gigalo!
Monday, April 5, 2010
Bats, Balls, Beer, and..........Twwiiinns.
So before we get to the true purpose of today's edition I must speak on McNabb. Now, I understand that the Skins are making all these moves in order to get back into contention, but where does McNabb fit in? He's going to give you two, maybe three, years of okay performance and solid leadership. Is he simply a mentor to whomever they draft in a couple weeks? Or his he someone that you are looking to take you to the Super Bowl? I believe he is the former. He believes he is the latter. This question better get answered quickly or Snyder and Shanahan are looking at another long season. And don't get me started on Willie Parker's unneeded signing. Or the fact that McNabb snubbed my Bills. Middle Finger you McNabb. As I stated previously, enjoy your enventual decline a'la Culpepper. And I just heard that the Skins didn't even have the common courtesy to tell Campbell beforehand. Damn, enjoy that nonsense Donovan. Hey Jason, Buffalo has an opening. But know that we are drafting Tebow. Campbell/Tebow 2010? Damn that. Get me Vick. Now.
And on to the good stuff.....
We'll start with the AL today. I thought about writing both and then realized baseball is my bread and butter. I have an opinion about everything in this sport. So with that being said,
AL EAST
The Yankees will win this division because not only do they have the best 1-2 (Sorry Boston, I hate Burnett too, but I simply don't trust Lackey. Yet.), but they have that damn mystique that I saw cripple team after team last season. (I got to witness Melky Cabrera's 9th inning walk-off off of Nathan, in the right field bleachers, with my boy Jay, a die-hard Yank, and at Yankee stadium. Suffice it to say we lost two more in a row that series in come-from-behind fashion. If it wasn't my first trip to the new stadium I might have killed myself.) Granderson is an upgrade over Melky. Javy Vazquez is an upgrade over Wang. Nick Johnson is an upgrade over Godzilla, simply because the man gets on base like 80% of the time. The Yankees got better, where their best comp were, at best, even. The Sox have solid pitching and resigning Beckett will go along way with maintaining the pitching staff's confidence. They lost Bay, and replaced him with strikeout king Mike Cameron. That improves their D, but their D was not the issue. In that little league LF, is their really much disparity needed between fielders. I mean Manny played there. Shit, Bay played there and he's like Lady Dunn when it comes to shagging fly balls. All this and Cam still ain't giving you what Bay did. And Papi is another year removed from 'roids. And they traded 'Tek's world knowledge for Martinez's bat. That might have been the toughest mistake/move to overcome. We'll find out as soon as we see Beckett and the crew's ERA skyrocket levels over last years numbers. The Rays will contend and steal wins, but their pitching is also shaky to me. Kazmir gave them nothing before leaving last season, and most importantly, they didn't replace him. Price doesn't look like he has found "it" yet. They supposedly have a stud frosh. Big Game James, I don't think so. They will hit though. If pitching holds up they will battle, but I don't think they can overcome that "if". I love Wieters, but the O's are eons away. But they do have a solid young core with the pitching they've matured, as well as Wieters and Adam "Not Pacman" Jones. The Jays. Hmmm. They will piss you off enough by sweeping a crucial July series, but will not matter in September so who cares. Good job resigning Lind though.
AL CENTRAL
Come on do I need to say it. Twins in 2010!!!!! Mauer repeats as MVP. Liriano, first Cy Young. J/K, but seriously we have a solid ass team this year. Let me go through it for you. Ok, so Nathan is out. Boo f-ing Hoo. We'll be okay simply because....Mauer is healthy. Morneau is healthy. Kubel is coming off of a career year (.300-28-103), and is healthy. Span has a full season under his belt. Healthy. Delmon Young tore the cover off the ball this spring. Cuddyer is healthy. We replaced the weakest part of our defense, middle-infield, (Casilla, OC/Punto/Harris) with two all-star caliber players (Hardy, O-Dog), one being a 4-time gold Glover (O-Dog). We essentially replaced Gomez's obscurity with....wait for it. Jim "F-ing" Thome!(I made the nickname up) And oh the pitching. Baker is solid as our one. Blackburn gives us 200 innings, and .500 baseball. And he's motivated by a new contract. Liriano had an ERA near 1 in winter ball and Spring Training. What does that mean? Uh oh. He's fully healed from that two year old Tommy John surgery. Not good for hitters. Pavano will be just as he was after the trade deadline for us last year. An innings hog, who proved that he can't pitch under the big city lights. Welcome to Minny! And a fifth who was 10-2 with an ERA at 3.00 before he got injured last year in Slowey. So add that up and you have a division Champ. Also because, Detroit got worse. They only have Verlander to count on every fifth day. Mags is done. Grandy is a Yankee. The Beast known as Cabrera stopped drinking and lost weight, but unfortunately also lost his protection in the line-up. Who else is gonna provide pop for them. DAY-MUN. Yeah right. Oh yeah and Procello will come alive this year, but you can only win a divisional series with two starters. Not a full season. Come playoff time, they won't be an option. The Indians, sorry P, but are very bad. They managed to make Grady Sizemore the least significant player in baseball with that last name. Not a good sign when he's your best player. The Royals I like their moves, but again don't have enough help for Grienke, who is waiting for the day that he can opt out and join the Dynasty. Just to piss us all off. But thanks for continuing Ankiel's career for me. A story of overcoming adversity that I always enjoy to hear. Lastly, we get the only team that can challenge us, Ozzie's Sox. No, not the ones on his personal twitter photos. I'm speaking of the other ones he leaves hanging out to dry. You know, the players? I have never seen a person do less and expect as much as Ozzie Guillen. Oh yeah I have, the Kardashians. Did I just compare Ozzie Guillen to Kim Kardashian? Yes, yes I did. So quick to complain, yet rarely provides a logical solution. Oh, you think I am downing the man? Oh God no. Please Wizard of Odd, continue to be the game time distraction that my Twins can feed off of. Peavy isn't enough. I will continue to hate Buerhle out of respect, and I believe they'll miss the protection that Dye's bat gave Hittin' Carlos Quentin. He'll slide, along with the rest of the O. This will of course cause the pitching to flounder trying to overcome the lack of runs. A mid season Peavy injury will cancel their postseason hopes.
AL WEST
The A's suck. Now that we have that out the way. No wait, back to them. Can you believe they sent down Cust, they're only offense last year, and made Chavez their DH? What?! Beane must know something not even his wife knows. Is he even married? Quick, we need that Moneyball movie with Pitt developed. Now. As far as the teams that do matter, this division is the toughest to call. I still don't think, even with Nolan Ryan at the helm, that the Rangers have the pitching moxie (a word I love) to contend all season. I do like Vlad and Nelson Cruz hitting back to back though. Offense will carry them through most games. Not enough though. That leaves us with the "Constants" and the "Breath of Fresh Air". The Angels lost Lackey (an innings hog) and replaced him with Kazmir (the exact opposite of an innings hog). And they lost Ervin Santana. And I'm not completely sold on lil' Weaver. Nor am I from a year older Matsui and Abreu. But, they do have Torii and as long as he's still being the greatest CF in baseball then they have a chance. If he goes down, uh oh. The M's are Americas sexy pick this year. Solid off season acquisitions (Lee, Figgins, crazy Milton Bradley) to accompany a hungry remaining core (Junior Griffey, Ichiro, and King Felix). This all adds up to a team primed to succeed. Problem is Lee's already hurt, Figgins got paid too much, and everyone else is a year older. I know Ichiro and Felix are gonna provide their usual, but will Gutierrez stay hot? Will Lee come back healthy? Will they all mesh? I think so, and their manager has proven to get the best out of his players. I say that this will be their year. Congrats J Bake, your boys will finally breakthrough.
Tomorrow, NL. OH boy, I can't wait for the METS.
And on to the good stuff.....
We'll start with the AL today. I thought about writing both and then realized baseball is my bread and butter. I have an opinion about everything in this sport. So with that being said,
AL EAST
The Yankees will win this division because not only do they have the best 1-2 (Sorry Boston, I hate Burnett too, but I simply don't trust Lackey. Yet.), but they have that damn mystique that I saw cripple team after team last season. (I got to witness Melky Cabrera's 9th inning walk-off off of Nathan, in the right field bleachers, with my boy Jay, a die-hard Yank, and at Yankee stadium. Suffice it to say we lost two more in a row that series in come-from-behind fashion. If it wasn't my first trip to the new stadium I might have killed myself.) Granderson is an upgrade over Melky. Javy Vazquez is an upgrade over Wang. Nick Johnson is an upgrade over Godzilla, simply because the man gets on base like 80% of the time. The Yankees got better, where their best comp were, at best, even. The Sox have solid pitching and resigning Beckett will go along way with maintaining the pitching staff's confidence. They lost Bay, and replaced him with strikeout king Mike Cameron. That improves their D, but their D was not the issue. In that little league LF, is their really much disparity needed between fielders. I mean Manny played there. Shit, Bay played there and he's like Lady Dunn when it comes to shagging fly balls. All this and Cam still ain't giving you what Bay did. And Papi is another year removed from 'roids. And they traded 'Tek's world knowledge for Martinez's bat. That might have been the toughest mistake/move to overcome. We'll find out as soon as we see Beckett and the crew's ERA skyrocket levels over last years numbers. The Rays will contend and steal wins, but their pitching is also shaky to me. Kazmir gave them nothing before leaving last season, and most importantly, they didn't replace him. Price doesn't look like he has found "it" yet. They supposedly have a stud frosh. Big Game James, I don't think so. They will hit though. If pitching holds up they will battle, but I don't think they can overcome that "if". I love Wieters, but the O's are eons away. But they do have a solid young core with the pitching they've matured, as well as Wieters and Adam "Not Pacman" Jones. The Jays. Hmmm. They will piss you off enough by sweeping a crucial July series, but will not matter in September so who cares. Good job resigning Lind though.
AL CENTRAL
Come on do I need to say it. Twins in 2010!!!!! Mauer repeats as MVP. Liriano, first Cy Young. J/K, but seriously we have a solid ass team this year. Let me go through it for you. Ok, so Nathan is out. Boo f-ing Hoo. We'll be okay simply because....Mauer is healthy. Morneau is healthy. Kubel is coming off of a career year (.300-28-103), and is healthy. Span has a full season under his belt. Healthy. Delmon Young tore the cover off the ball this spring. Cuddyer is healthy. We replaced the weakest part of our defense, middle-infield, (Casilla, OC/Punto/Harris) with two all-star caliber players (Hardy, O-Dog), one being a 4-time gold Glover (O-Dog). We essentially replaced Gomez's obscurity with....wait for it. Jim "F-ing" Thome!(I made the nickname up) And oh the pitching. Baker is solid as our one. Blackburn gives us 200 innings, and .500 baseball. And he's motivated by a new contract. Liriano had an ERA near 1 in winter ball and Spring Training. What does that mean? Uh oh. He's fully healed from that two year old Tommy John surgery. Not good for hitters. Pavano will be just as he was after the trade deadline for us last year. An innings hog, who proved that he can't pitch under the big city lights. Welcome to Minny! And a fifth who was 10-2 with an ERA at 3.00 before he got injured last year in Slowey. So add that up and you have a division Champ. Also because, Detroit got worse. They only have Verlander to count on every fifth day. Mags is done. Grandy is a Yankee. The Beast known as Cabrera stopped drinking and lost weight, but unfortunately also lost his protection in the line-up. Who else is gonna provide pop for them. DAY-MUN. Yeah right. Oh yeah and Procello will come alive this year, but you can only win a divisional series with two starters. Not a full season. Come playoff time, they won't be an option. The Indians, sorry P, but are very bad. They managed to make Grady Sizemore the least significant player in baseball with that last name. Not a good sign when he's your best player. The Royals I like their moves, but again don't have enough help for Grienke, who is waiting for the day that he can opt out and join the Dynasty. Just to piss us all off. But thanks for continuing Ankiel's career for me. A story of overcoming adversity that I always enjoy to hear. Lastly, we get the only team that can challenge us, Ozzie's Sox. No, not the ones on his personal twitter photos. I'm speaking of the other ones he leaves hanging out to dry. You know, the players? I have never seen a person do less and expect as much as Ozzie Guillen. Oh yeah I have, the Kardashians. Did I just compare Ozzie Guillen to Kim Kardashian? Yes, yes I did. So quick to complain, yet rarely provides a logical solution. Oh, you think I am downing the man? Oh God no. Please Wizard of Odd, continue to be the game time distraction that my Twins can feed off of. Peavy isn't enough. I will continue to hate Buerhle out of respect, and I believe they'll miss the protection that Dye's bat gave Hittin' Carlos Quentin. He'll slide, along with the rest of the O. This will of course cause the pitching to flounder trying to overcome the lack of runs. A mid season Peavy injury will cancel their postseason hopes.
AL WEST
The A's suck. Now that we have that out the way. No wait, back to them. Can you believe they sent down Cust, they're only offense last year, and made Chavez their DH? What?! Beane must know something not even his wife knows. Is he even married? Quick, we need that Moneyball movie with Pitt developed. Now. As far as the teams that do matter, this division is the toughest to call. I still don't think, even with Nolan Ryan at the helm, that the Rangers have the pitching moxie (a word I love) to contend all season. I do like Vlad and Nelson Cruz hitting back to back though. Offense will carry them through most games. Not enough though. That leaves us with the "Constants" and the "Breath of Fresh Air". The Angels lost Lackey (an innings hog) and replaced him with Kazmir (the exact opposite of an innings hog). And they lost Ervin Santana. And I'm not completely sold on lil' Weaver. Nor am I from a year older Matsui and Abreu. But, they do have Torii and as long as he's still being the greatest CF in baseball then they have a chance. If he goes down, uh oh. The M's are Americas sexy pick this year. Solid off season acquisitions (Lee, Figgins, crazy Milton Bradley) to accompany a hungry remaining core (Junior Griffey, Ichiro, and King Felix). This all adds up to a team primed to succeed. Problem is Lee's already hurt, Figgins got paid too much, and everyone else is a year older. I know Ichiro and Felix are gonna provide their usual, but will Gutierrez stay hot? Will Lee come back healthy? Will they all mesh? I think so, and their manager has proven to get the best out of his players. I say that this will be their year. Congrats J Bake, your boys will finally breakthrough.
Tomorrow, NL. OH boy, I can't wait for the METS.
Friday, April 2, 2010
I don't think this one's got the distance
So instead of breaking down this ridiculous side of the bracket I'll just say this. One would think that Michigan State is simply too clutch and too experienced to lose to Butler. Oh, are they really? This kid Hayward (or is it Heyward, like Iron Head?) is a beast and without a counter (Lucas), Michigan St. could find themselves playing catch up early on. Ever since Mason shocked the world I have hoped to see an absolute underdog win the Championship. With garbage Duke as the front-runner, is this the year it happens? No, because Duke's losing to WVU, and Butler the college will not be able to handle WVU's Butler the player. (My new favorite player in the tourney). But, I can't wait to see the countless Valvano commercials and clips should Butler prevail over Michigan St. What's worse, what if they win it all!? There Jimmy V. goes, sprinting across the floor. Go Wildcats...err Bulldogs.
Final Four- Butler
Champion: The Mountaineers babay! Hey, they beat UK. That's a champ to me.
Now that that's out of the way, let's get to the true purpose of this edition: OPENING DAY IS SUNDAY NIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!
My Twins christen their new home with a two game set against my personal baseball nemesis, Marbles' Cards. Target Field get ready to be de-virginized. Oh, there will be blood, just not of the prepubescent girl or Oscar winning variety.
OMG, Predictions.
AL East
Champ- Yankees
Chump- Jays
Surprise- O's (Two words: Matt Wieters)
AL Central
Champ- Twins
Chump- Indians
Surprise- Royals (No longer garbage)
AL West
Champ- Mariners
Chump- A's
Surprise- Rangers (Vlad, Nolan Ryan as boss, will compete)
AL Wildcard
Rays
NL East
Champ- Phillies
Chump- Mets
Surprise- Braves (one word: Heyward! See this kids make up and you won't be missing Chipper after this year)
NL Central
Champ- Cards
Chump- Astros
Surprise- Brewers (will lose the Wildcard late)
NL West
Champ- Rockies
Chump- Giants
Surprise- Dodgers (for not winning the division)
NL Wildcard
Braves
I would really love to breakdown the reason behind each choice, and I will, next week. Soak in the picks and please hit me with your rebuttals. I dare you. Baseball baby! Put me in coach, I'm ready to play dammit!
Final Four- Butler
Champion: The Mountaineers babay! Hey, they beat UK. That's a champ to me.
Now that that's out of the way, let's get to the true purpose of this edition: OPENING DAY IS SUNDAY NIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!
My Twins christen their new home with a two game set against my personal baseball nemesis, Marbles' Cards. Target Field get ready to be de-virginized. Oh, there will be blood, just not of the prepubescent girl or Oscar winning variety.
OMG, Predictions.
AL East
Champ- Yankees
Chump- Jays
Surprise- O's (Two words: Matt Wieters)
AL Central
Champ- Twins
Chump- Indians
Surprise- Royals (No longer garbage)
AL West
Champ- Mariners
Chump- A's
Surprise- Rangers (Vlad, Nolan Ryan as boss, will compete)
AL Wildcard
Rays
NL East
Champ- Phillies
Chump- Mets
Surprise- Braves (one word: Heyward! See this kids make up and you won't be missing Chipper after this year)
NL Central
Champ- Cards
Chump- Astros
Surprise- Brewers (will lose the Wildcard late)
NL West
Champ- Rockies
Chump- Giants
Surprise- Dodgers (for not winning the division)
NL Wildcard
Braves
I would really love to breakdown the reason behind each choice, and I will, next week. Soak in the picks and please hit me with your rebuttals. I dare you. Baseball baby! Put me in coach, I'm ready to play dammit!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Heeyy, What Happened?
I love Fred Willard's character in A Mighty Wind repeating that and thought it was appropriate for this editions title. What an engaging weekend, and not just because I put a ring on it. Memories.....On with the much sadder news......
My Wildcats broke Ashley's and my heart with their Boy's and Girl's Club 6 year old instructional league shooting display, en route to their early exit (again!) out of this year's big boy's tournament. All hail to the one D Butler. Another great all around effort, showing Wall and other youngsters just how to make other's around you not just better, but winners. I will say it again. Butler will be an impact NBA guard. Maybe not out of the gate, but down the line. Not an All-Star, but a solid starter. Watch. I must add that Wall and Cousins, and maybe Bledsoe and Patterson will be monsters in the league. J/S But enough hole licking, my boys couldn't buy a bucket. That's been our Achilles heel all season. If we are on, we're deadly. And, on most occasions, if our shooting was off, our overpowering defense would make up for it. Problem with this game though was the fact the opponent was also an elite team. They never slipped, and played hard, and consistent for the full forty minutes. They never wained, which never allowed us to make our customary late game surge. Our knockout punch worked in the SEC tourney against Miss. St. Too bad this was West Virginia. With their improbable win, they get a date with the new tourney fave....
Dooooookie! Once again I reiterate how easy of a path this team has had to the Final Four. Baylor was their toughest opponent, and not to make excuses, but when you've played warm up games the first two rounds, this of course allows the Devils to become noticeably more well rested down the stretch. And that just so happens to be where they won the game. A haggard and exhausted Baylor squad looked helpless late, deferring to touch fouls and hands-on-knees enthusiasm. I will give kudos to Duke for exploiting this. Plus the fact that Baylor's main inside presence fouled out with about half of the second half to go. But that couldn't have help the Blue Devils right? Well Zoubek's Serge Zwikker reminding garbageness had four fouls and looked worried. Three seconds later Baylor's whole inside game fouls out and the look the Plumlee twins and Zoubek had on their faces resembled six year olds at Dylan's Candy Shop. Suffice it to say Zoubek was a dominating force late, grabbing two monster offensive rebounds for kick out spasm inducing threes, that in turn left Baylor with nothing but gasped air to focus on. Clutch free throw shooting from Scheyer, Mr. O-fer Singler, Smith, and even Lance Thomas sealed the game for Duke. Hey, maybe Cal should conference with Coach K in the off season and learn free throw teaching drills. Lord knows we could have used those against the Mountaineers.
Final Four....WVU dammit. Screw Duke. I'm a hater til the end.
Other side tommorrow.
My Wildcats broke Ashley's and my heart with their Boy's and Girl's Club 6 year old instructional league shooting display, en route to their early exit (again!) out of this year's big boy's tournament. All hail to the one D Butler. Another great all around effort, showing Wall and other youngsters just how to make other's around you not just better, but winners. I will say it again. Butler will be an impact NBA guard. Maybe not out of the gate, but down the line. Not an All-Star, but a solid starter. Watch. I must add that Wall and Cousins, and maybe Bledsoe and Patterson will be monsters in the league. J/S But enough hole licking, my boys couldn't buy a bucket. That's been our Achilles heel all season. If we are on, we're deadly. And, on most occasions, if our shooting was off, our overpowering defense would make up for it. Problem with this game though was the fact the opponent was also an elite team. They never slipped, and played hard, and consistent for the full forty minutes. They never wained, which never allowed us to make our customary late game surge. Our knockout punch worked in the SEC tourney against Miss. St. Too bad this was West Virginia. With their improbable win, they get a date with the new tourney fave....
Dooooookie! Once again I reiterate how easy of a path this team has had to the Final Four. Baylor was their toughest opponent, and not to make excuses, but when you've played warm up games the first two rounds, this of course allows the Devils to become noticeably more well rested down the stretch. And that just so happens to be where they won the game. A haggard and exhausted Baylor squad looked helpless late, deferring to touch fouls and hands-on-knees enthusiasm. I will give kudos to Duke for exploiting this. Plus the fact that Baylor's main inside presence fouled out with about half of the second half to go. But that couldn't have help the Blue Devils right? Well Zoubek's Serge Zwikker reminding garbageness had four fouls and looked worried. Three seconds later Baylor's whole inside game fouls out and the look the Plumlee twins and Zoubek had on their faces resembled six year olds at Dylan's Candy Shop. Suffice it to say Zoubek was a dominating force late, grabbing two monster offensive rebounds for kick out spasm inducing threes, that in turn left Baylor with nothing but gasped air to focus on. Clutch free throw shooting from Scheyer, Mr. O-fer Singler, Smith, and even Lance Thomas sealed the game for Duke. Hey, maybe Cal should conference with Coach K in the off season and learn free throw teaching drills. Lord knows we could have used those against the Mountaineers.
Final Four....WVU dammit. Screw Duke. I'm a hater til the end.
Other side tommorrow.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Closing time? Not if your an MLB team.
So today's edition will include my take on some of sports most recent stories. You might not agree, but dammit you'll listen. So with that said, here we go.
-Tiger Woods is an idiot. That's a given, but what makes him even more moronic is the lackadaisical effort he is putting into his apologies. Any man will tell you if you expect to win your significant other back in any way, shape, or form the word is grovel. I mean, like a damn mole. And not a witty mole like in Fantastic Mr. Fox, but an actual sympathetic partner. Does he realize not only did he sleep with half of the porn industry, but he very likely brought something back from those excursions that was not obtained with money. Or was it? Haha, they were whores mind you. Yet I digress. So the real question at hand is how much he truly wants his wife back. Not his life, because Golf can cure that ill. What I speak of is his relationship with her. Because if you ask me, based on the two interviews I have seen, Golf is all that he's concerned about. If I would have made this large of a Do'h I instantly would have gotten my wife's name tattooed on my forehead and dared some uppity golf jerk to question it. But that's me, and I ain't Tiger. I honestly think he could give two shits about his family. The only people he is interested in getting back into their good graces is the American public. And unfortunately, Elin is Swiss. Tiger just make up your mind so I can start rooting for you again. Hey, MJ did Ok after Juanita. Have you seen his new arm candy!? Google her right now.
-So the Jets are talking about giving LT more carries than Leon Washington this upcoming season. So let me get this straight. You are committing to an aging back when you have one of the most dynamic ball carriers in the league partnering in the backfield? And little Ryan's comment was we want to get him back to a Pro Bowl returner. Who the hell is he, Vai Sikahema? You know why Sikahema was a returner? Becasue he couldn't run or fucking catch. Nor did Dante Hall, Mel Gray, or any other only returner throughout history. Leon has game and if the Jets want to curb Sanchez's inevitable sophomore slump they will adhere to this. If not, 6-10 here we come! Oh, and an injured LT.
- Is Favre coming back? Is he not? I could give two shits because his body WILL NOT make it through another 16 game season and playoffs. I said this last year, and the year before that, but this time I'm right. Or, maybe I'm not. Someone get me Digger Phelps!
-Andy Reid and the rest of the Eagles brass are apparently listening to offers from other teams on all three of their QB's. My take? Yes baby!! My dream 2010 ticket of Vick/Tebow is still a possibility. Vick come on over to Buffalo. McNabb enjoy your eventual collapse into obscurity a'la Culpepper, and Kolb, welcome to the League.
UPDATE *now it's eventually just McNabb. Dammit. Stop toying with me Eagles. Give Vick up or not. The Eagles are like a straggler at the end of a drunk bar night. You've been eyeing her all night and she keeps slobbering over drinks telling you how cute you are, but won't confirm that she's going home with you. Stupid Andy Reid stragglers.
-Did you see that Help Needed sign outside of almost every major league teams gates? No, well there should be. With seemingly every closer battling some kind of ailment I am guessing that teams won't truly make their surges until May, at the earliest. My Twinkies (Nathan), Rockies (Houston Street), Indians (Wood), and even the Champs (Lidge) all have problems at the closer position, just to name a few. Add to that a number of other teams that are looking "in house" to solve their own problems and what you have is a market with a need, and not enough quality pieces to fulfill that demand. Bottom line is teams better score runs in bunches because any close games will not have a guaranteed savior at the end. I don't trust the Mets Rodriguez or another-year-older Mo either. If there was ever a time to summon a job as a closer, now is the time. Someone get me Rod Beck!
-Tiger Woods is an idiot. That's a given, but what makes him even more moronic is the lackadaisical effort he is putting into his apologies. Any man will tell you if you expect to win your significant other back in any way, shape, or form the word is grovel. I mean, like a damn mole. And not a witty mole like in Fantastic Mr. Fox, but an actual sympathetic partner. Does he realize not only did he sleep with half of the porn industry, but he very likely brought something back from those excursions that was not obtained with money. Or was it? Haha, they were whores mind you. Yet I digress. So the real question at hand is how much he truly wants his wife back. Not his life, because Golf can cure that ill. What I speak of is his relationship with her. Because if you ask me, based on the two interviews I have seen, Golf is all that he's concerned about. If I would have made this large of a Do'h I instantly would have gotten my wife's name tattooed on my forehead and dared some uppity golf jerk to question it. But that's me, and I ain't Tiger. I honestly think he could give two shits about his family. The only people he is interested in getting back into their good graces is the American public. And unfortunately, Elin is Swiss. Tiger just make up your mind so I can start rooting for you again. Hey, MJ did Ok after Juanita. Have you seen his new arm candy!? Google her right now.
-So the Jets are talking about giving LT more carries than Leon Washington this upcoming season. So let me get this straight. You are committing to an aging back when you have one of the most dynamic ball carriers in the league partnering in the backfield? And little Ryan's comment was we want to get him back to a Pro Bowl returner. Who the hell is he, Vai Sikahema? You know why Sikahema was a returner? Becasue he couldn't run or fucking catch. Nor did Dante Hall, Mel Gray, or any other only returner throughout history. Leon has game and if the Jets want to curb Sanchez's inevitable sophomore slump they will adhere to this. If not, 6-10 here we come! Oh, and an injured LT.
- Is Favre coming back? Is he not? I could give two shits because his body WILL NOT make it through another 16 game season and playoffs. I said this last year, and the year before that, but this time I'm right. Or, maybe I'm not. Someone get me Digger Phelps!
-Andy Reid and the rest of the Eagles brass are apparently listening to offers from other teams on all three of their QB's. My take? Yes baby!! My dream 2010 ticket of Vick/Tebow is still a possibility. Vick come on over to Buffalo. McNabb enjoy your eventual collapse into obscurity a'la Culpepper, and Kolb, welcome to the League.
UPDATE *now it's eventually just McNabb. Dammit. Stop toying with me Eagles. Give Vick up or not. The Eagles are like a straggler at the end of a drunk bar night. You've been eyeing her all night and she keeps slobbering over drinks telling you how cute you are, but won't confirm that she's going home with you. Stupid Andy Reid stragglers.
-Did you see that Help Needed sign outside of almost every major league teams gates? No, well there should be. With seemingly every closer battling some kind of ailment I am guessing that teams won't truly make their surges until May, at the earliest. My Twinkies (Nathan), Rockies (Houston Street), Indians (Wood), and even the Champs (Lidge) all have problems at the closer position, just to name a few. Add to that a number of other teams that are looking "in house" to solve their own problems and what you have is a market with a need, and not enough quality pieces to fulfill that demand. Bottom line is teams better score runs in bunches because any close games will not have a guaranteed savior at the end. I don't trust the Mets Rodriguez or another-year-older Mo either. If there was ever a time to summon a job as a closer, now is the time. Someone get me Rod Beck!
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Dance, Dance
As we continue on......
In the East we have a for sure blowout (UK v. Cornell) and the most intriguing match up on the right side of the bracket (Washington v. WVU). As far as Cornell goes, what a great story. And your witty quips and team camaraderie really makes me wish you weren't playing the team that is just now slated to win it all. Although biasly, I always knew that UK would take out KU come title time, but now I know for sure that we have a clean path to the trophy. Who's going to stop us? Surely not an Ivy league school that beat up on Temple and Wisconsin. What is this the 90's? Don't they know we have the best PG in the country and an absolute tree trunk in Cousins? All that snippy "Friday Night Lights" quoting won't stop you from getting J'd up. Sorry.
In the regions other match up I can honestly say that I had Washington losing in the first round to Marquette, but I always knew that if Isaiah Thomas went off, the rest of the tournament needed to worry. I would also warn W.V. of the same, but Butler is a beast. Period. He'll be a fine pro and because of his unwillingness late in games to allow his team to lose (Did you see the Big East tourney?), they'll pile it on and beat a over matched U Dub squad. I guess the real question to ask is whether Butler can beat UK by himself? Uh, No way.
Final Four: UK all the way!
In the South, God's team stayed the course and rubbed out purposely placed weaker teams, and of course has a Sweet 16 match up with the most downtrodden of all participants. How Purdue has advanced this far still boggles me, but that will all end here. No Hummel means no one to stop Singler. (Whom I despise, but I recognize game when it's elevated) The Blue Devils cruise into the Elite 8, but then lose to..... Baylor baby! My new favorite cuz Dunn and the boys will continue their unbelievable story by crushing the Gaels slipper and taking out a too-easy-so-far Duke squad. Or should I say Dukie. Ha ha How have I never thought about that? Reverting back to Baylor for a second. How unbelievable is their story? First a player murders a teammate. Then their coach breaks all kinds of collegiate rules to get the program suspended. How does this school respond? You then scrape the bottom of the talent pool in order to recruit, and now a decade later you are dancing into the Final Four. Now that's Cinderella.
But I ain't one of the gossips so you ain't heard that from me.
In the East we have a for sure blowout (UK v. Cornell) and the most intriguing match up on the right side of the bracket (Washington v. WVU). As far as Cornell goes, what a great story. And your witty quips and team camaraderie really makes me wish you weren't playing the team that is just now slated to win it all. Although biasly, I always knew that UK would take out KU come title time, but now I know for sure that we have a clean path to the trophy. Who's going to stop us? Surely not an Ivy league school that beat up on Temple and Wisconsin. What is this the 90's? Don't they know we have the best PG in the country and an absolute tree trunk in Cousins? All that snippy "Friday Night Lights" quoting won't stop you from getting J'd up. Sorry.
In the regions other match up I can honestly say that I had Washington losing in the first round to Marquette, but I always knew that if Isaiah Thomas went off, the rest of the tournament needed to worry. I would also warn W.V. of the same, but Butler is a beast. Period. He'll be a fine pro and because of his unwillingness late in games to allow his team to lose (Did you see the Big East tourney?), they'll pile it on and beat a over matched U Dub squad. I guess the real question to ask is whether Butler can beat UK by himself? Uh, No way.
Final Four: UK all the way!
In the South, God's team stayed the course and rubbed out purposely placed weaker teams, and of course has a Sweet 16 match up with the most downtrodden of all participants. How Purdue has advanced this far still boggles me, but that will all end here. No Hummel means no one to stop Singler. (Whom I despise, but I recognize game when it's elevated) The Blue Devils cruise into the Elite 8, but then lose to..... Baylor baby! My new favorite cuz Dunn and the boys will continue their unbelievable story by crushing the Gaels slipper and taking out a too-easy-so-far Duke squad. Or should I say Dukie. Ha ha How have I never thought about that? Reverting back to Baylor for a second. How unbelievable is their story? First a player murders a teammate. Then their coach breaks all kinds of collegiate rules to get the program suspended. How does this school respond? You then scrape the bottom of the talent pool in order to recruit, and now a decade later you are dancing into the Final Four. Now that's Cinderella.
But I ain't one of the gossips so you ain't heard that from me.
Monday, March 22, 2010
"Mauer" bang for your buck
Oh, I'll get to that news ray of sunshine later. First, let's pick apart these Sweet 16 match ups shall we? What a helluva weekend in college basketball! I have watched alot of tournament games in my day and have not been more perplexed by an outcome than Northern Iowa's beat down of Kansas. Of course upon its finale I was clamoring for a ODU-UNI Championship rematch. I swore we could have taken them this time. That was until my distant Texan cousin LaceDarius Dunn decided to be the Dunn to take out ODU. (I was gearing up for it you know) Anyways, shall we start this dance?....
Like before, day 1 will cover the West and Midwest.
The West gives us 'Cuse v. Butler and Kansas St. v. Xavier. At first glance both games look like for sure blowouts. But beneath the surface, oh how things, well look, the exact same. 'Cuse has won convincingly without their most dominating inside presence. These Orange "crushes" (how many times do I have the chance to quote R.E.M.?) occurred against a Vermont team that dominated their conference all season, in addition to having dunk-of-the-year momentum, and over a Zag team that never loses by 20 this time of season. If they can make it look that easy against those opponents without an interior defensive presence then I can't see Butler winning. Even though they are playing out of their minds right now. But they only beat UTEP (not as good as I thought) and Murray St.(ditto), so Cuse should walk through this one. Kansas State, with Clemente and Black Wolverine, uh I mean Pullen, were the best team to take out Kansas during the season in the Big 12 and now they have shown it. If Crawford doesn't miss, Xavier can win. If he does his best Aerenas impression, then it will be a long night for the Ohio representers.
Final Four: Still 'Cuse
In the Midwest we have a Cinderella who could very well March on and another match up that truly should be this divisions final. First, if you would have asked me yesterday I would have told you that the Panthers of UNI had absolutely no shot against Kalin Lucas and Izzo's unwillingness to lose in the tournament. But then news broke that Michigan St. has all but guaranteed Lucas out for the remainder of the tournament, and oh how the wheels of destiny have turned. Farokhmanesh is clutch and Spartan countries best player just took a nosedive off of that cliff those Mastadon/elephants fell off of in "300". America, get yourself familiar with the Northern Iowa Panthers. In the other match up, If Tennessee can somehow stop Turner, and Hopson plays the game I know he can, UT will advance. If Hopson and Chism's bitch ass both lay eggs like in the SEC tournament then the Buckeyes can punch their ticket to Indianapolis. Those are both strong if's though.
Final Four: Ohio St
To the topic du jour. Yes, yes, yes Mauer deserved every penny of this deal. And if one more person comes at me with that "this move will invariably tie up the Twins payroll in the future, disallowing them to add key guys later" argument I'll kill you myself. So is this the "double-edge sword" that everyone was jarring about last week? No. Because if we didn't sign him, we Twins fans would have been crushed and the reverberations of Johan number two would have been broadcast in high definition for all to debate over. Bottom line is we had to do this signing. For Minny. For fans. Heck, even for Mauer. Do you think he would have appreciated not being given maximum dollars from his hometown team. A team he killed himself for since being drafted. A team that he has not been shy about stating his unfathomed love and devotion for. I mean if I were his lady I would be scared of him cheating on me with the Twin cities. That's how much he loves this town. So before you go ripping the signing let me give you a few pointers to think about. First, we have billionaire owners. The money was there so we spent it. If we aren't competing in five years, Mauer will wave his full no trade clause anyways and another team, I'm sure, will be happy to scoop him up. So not being able to sign big time free agents or resign hometown pieces won't matter because we'll be rebuilding anyways. Second, allow me to remind you that three of the top four salaries in baseball belong in New York, with CC's not being far behind. If they can pay Jeter six million dollars more and Tex only four million less, and Mauer is giving you Jete's no lose attitude and leadership,and Tex's power and plate discipline, how could you not resign him. Third, do you even begin to understand the consequences of us NOT resigning him. The Twin cities would have imploded and caused a ripple effect in the sports circuit that my hero Kirby would have felt in his grave. The Vikes, T-Wolves, and even the Gophers would have felt the pinch. Their are die-hard fans there. They would not have accepted anything less. Lastly, read my Re-sign Mauer. Yes, we can! article. This backs up these points and provides you with more. This guy just made a wonderful decision. A decision that will ripple through sports as well. No? You telling me that LeBron, D-Wade, the Cavs, and Heat weren't all paying attention to this display of loyalty. It proves that you can have your cake AND eat it too. Or at least your millions. Thumbs up Twins!!
A quick note from this weekend to end on.
Chew on this. You know there are only four tracks that Jimmy hasn't won on. Only four! That's like the amount of people that think Cornell actually has a shot against UK. Or the amount of times I have watched "Winning Time". Or, the amount of times the lady has made me watch 500 Days of Summer.(An extremely well acted and underrated film BTW) So what does this all mean? It simply means that 48 is as an unstoppable force as Nascar has seen in sometime. Reggie is the purest jump shooter of all time. And, I am slowly falling in love with Zooey Deschanel. And Joseph Gordan Levitt for that matter. (Sorry but I have to say Bella and Edward they were not. Chemistry was actually alive and well here, whereas with those two, dare I say it, the chemistry seemed to have been sucked out of them. ha ha Had to do it.) Great show Jimmy! Sorry Kurt Busch. Maybe five tire changes would have worked on that last pit. Or simply a winning car. Next time, try harder. In the immortal words of one Richard Bobby "If you ain't first, you're last!"
Like before, day 1 will cover the West and Midwest.
The West gives us 'Cuse v. Butler and Kansas St. v. Xavier. At first glance both games look like for sure blowouts. But beneath the surface, oh how things, well look, the exact same. 'Cuse has won convincingly without their most dominating inside presence. These Orange "crushes" (how many times do I have the chance to quote R.E.M.?) occurred against a Vermont team that dominated their conference all season, in addition to having dunk-of-the-year momentum, and over a Zag team that never loses by 20 this time of season. If they can make it look that easy against those opponents without an interior defensive presence then I can't see Butler winning. Even though they are playing out of their minds right now. But they only beat UTEP (not as good as I thought) and Murray St.(ditto), so Cuse should walk through this one. Kansas State, with Clemente and Black Wolverine, uh I mean Pullen, were the best team to take out Kansas during the season in the Big 12 and now they have shown it. If Crawford doesn't miss, Xavier can win. If he does his best Aerenas impression, then it will be a long night for the Ohio representers.
Final Four: Still 'Cuse
In the Midwest we have a Cinderella who could very well March on and another match up that truly should be this divisions final. First, if you would have asked me yesterday I would have told you that the Panthers of UNI had absolutely no shot against Kalin Lucas and Izzo's unwillingness to lose in the tournament. But then news broke that Michigan St. has all but guaranteed Lucas out for the remainder of the tournament, and oh how the wheels of destiny have turned. Farokhmanesh is clutch and Spartan countries best player just took a nosedive off of that cliff those Mastadon/elephants fell off of in "300". America, get yourself familiar with the Northern Iowa Panthers. In the other match up, If Tennessee can somehow stop Turner, and Hopson plays the game I know he can, UT will advance. If Hopson and Chism's bitch ass both lay eggs like in the SEC tournament then the Buckeyes can punch their ticket to Indianapolis. Those are both strong if's though.
Final Four: Ohio St
To the topic du jour. Yes, yes, yes Mauer deserved every penny of this deal. And if one more person comes at me with that "this move will invariably tie up the Twins payroll in the future, disallowing them to add key guys later" argument I'll kill you myself. So is this the "double-edge sword" that everyone was jarring about last week? No. Because if we didn't sign him, we Twins fans would have been crushed and the reverberations of Johan number two would have been broadcast in high definition for all to debate over. Bottom line is we had to do this signing. For Minny. For fans. Heck, even for Mauer. Do you think he would have appreciated not being given maximum dollars from his hometown team. A team he killed himself for since being drafted. A team that he has not been shy about stating his unfathomed love and devotion for. I mean if I were his lady I would be scared of him cheating on me with the Twin cities. That's how much he loves this town. So before you go ripping the signing let me give you a few pointers to think about. First, we have billionaire owners. The money was there so we spent it. If we aren't competing in five years, Mauer will wave his full no trade clause anyways and another team, I'm sure, will be happy to scoop him up. So not being able to sign big time free agents or resign hometown pieces won't matter because we'll be rebuilding anyways. Second, allow me to remind you that three of the top four salaries in baseball belong in New York, with CC's not being far behind. If they can pay Jeter six million dollars more and Tex only four million less, and Mauer is giving you Jete's no lose attitude and leadership,and Tex's power and plate discipline, how could you not resign him. Third, do you even begin to understand the consequences of us NOT resigning him. The Twin cities would have imploded and caused a ripple effect in the sports circuit that my hero Kirby would have felt in his grave. The Vikes, T-Wolves, and even the Gophers would have felt the pinch. Their are die-hard fans there. They would not have accepted anything less. Lastly, read my Re-sign Mauer. Yes, we can! article. This backs up these points and provides you with more. This guy just made a wonderful decision. A decision that will ripple through sports as well. No? You telling me that LeBron, D-Wade, the Cavs, and Heat weren't all paying attention to this display of loyalty. It proves that you can have your cake AND eat it too. Or at least your millions. Thumbs up Twins!!
A quick note from this weekend to end on.
Chew on this. You know there are only four tracks that Jimmy hasn't won on. Only four! That's like the amount of people that think Cornell actually has a shot against UK. Or the amount of times I have watched "Winning Time". Or, the amount of times the lady has made me watch 500 Days of Summer.(An extremely well acted and underrated film BTW) So what does this all mean? It simply means that 48 is as an unstoppable force as Nascar has seen in sometime. Reggie is the purest jump shooter of all time. And, I am slowly falling in love with Zooey Deschanel. And Joseph Gordan Levitt for that matter. (Sorry but I have to say Bella and Edward they were not. Chemistry was actually alive and well here, whereas with those two, dare I say it, the chemistry seemed to have been sucked out of them. ha ha Had to do it.) Great show Jimmy! Sorry Kurt Busch. Maybe five tire changes would have worked on that last pit. Or simply a winning car. Next time, try harder. In the immortal words of one Richard Bobby "If you ain't first, you're last!"
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