Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Blue Breakdown


The National League divisional round is a stimulating series. Whether you bleed Dodger blue in L.A. or wave your cyan Cubs cap at Wrigley, an awesome week of baseball lies in wait. A nickel’s worth of games gets underway Wednesday when Ryan Dempster winds up for Chicago. The Cubs’ game one starter thrives tossing on his home turf. The Windy City has been quite kind to the BC native. The thirty-one year old ended 2008 with an envious 14-3 home record. I anticipate another Cub crushing.
Derek (Lowe) from Dearborn (Michigan) delivers for the Dodgers tomorrow. Lowe is no slacker, slewing his slick slider and posting 14 wins himself for L.A. The former Red Sox champion might be helped by the league’s best bullpen. The Dodgers are backed by a barrage of effective ERA efficiency leaders. Since Lowe can be lethargic on occasion, Clayton Kershaw and Takashi Saito need to be ready to provide a reliable relief core. Kershaw is a kid with a devastating fastball, resembling that of Sandy Koufax. I can’t wait to see Alfonso Soriano and Derrek Lee step into the batter’s box if Clayton gets the call. Chicago’s bullpen has perhaps just as much depth as the Dodgers. I think the game will come down to the late inning pitching. Jeff Samardzija, Kerry Wood and Carlos Marmol will seal the win for the Cubs. They’ve been right on all year long and there is no reason they cannot come through again in this series.
Look for Manny Ramirez to make another playoff impact though. The clutch hitter and rapid run producer is L.A.’s toughest out. Dempster’s battery-mate, Geovany Soto, is another player to keep your peeps on. The likable Soto only sports a .285 batting average but he can sting with just one swing.
Rich Harden and Carlos Zambrano are a solid one-two punch on the mound. Think Michael and Sonny Corleone, respectively. Harden is quietly lethal like Michael and Big Z is the flamboyant hot-head Sonny. Both are equally operational when they are on. Should this series go the distance, it will be interesting to see if Joe Torre uses his veteran, Greg Maddux. Maddux isn’t scheduled to start this series, but it’s curious to consider a contest opposite his former Cubs club. The Dodgers are less experienced, except for former all-star, Jeff Kent. And Torre has sniffed many a post-season. The 2008 Cubs are just the better, more complete team. They are hungry to break the 1908 hex and Lou Pinella is one of the NL’s best at managing a team.

Fun with the number 8:
Last time these teams were in the World Series:
Cubs: 1908
Dodgers: 1988
_____:2008?

Parting points: Rashard Mendenhall is probably out for the year for the Steelers. He was injured during Monday night’s win against Baltimore. I said before the key to the Steelers season was having a solid RB. With Parker already on the sidelines, the former Fighting Illini star was going to have to be special. So it’s disappointing he is out too and now the issue needs to be addressed in order for Pittsburgh to win that division.

Congrats to Brad Lidge on the comeback player of the year for the NL. He deserves it.

Jimmy Connors Saved My Life by Joel Drucker is a great read. Check it out.

Monday, September 29, 2008

Amazin’ Anguish And Atrocity Again

The New York Mets placed themselves in a position of playoff peril with the passing of two players. A turning point in the Marlins-Mets game occurred when Florida skipper, Freddy Gonzalez, replaced Mike Jacobs with Wes Helms. The first baseman was shown the bench because pinch-hitter Helms has habitually hit lefties better. The reason Scott Shoeneweis was even brought from the bullpen was because Jerry Manuel liked the match up with Jacobs coming to bat. Obviously Gonzalez’s plate put up proved the right one and Shoeneweis’s appearance backfired. Helms homered as momentum meandered the Marlins’ way. Reliever, Luis Ayala, proceeded to give up the long ball to the subsequent slugger when Dan Uggla hauled a solo shot.
Carlos Beltran did come through with the launching of Scott Olsen pitch, crushing the ball into the seats for the final Mets homerun ever at Shea. At that point, I still had a hunch the Mets would pull out a win. Shaky Oliver Perez pitched well enough through six innings despite absolutely no run support. The scoreboard indicated the Cubs were leading the Brewers, and all the stars were aligned for New York. When the bullpen took over for Perez, they did claim command and limit damage until that fateful eighth inning. Endy Chavez was the Amazin’s star on defense, taking away potential homeruns and base hits on at least two stellar plays in the outfield. But, the Marlins somehow found it within themselves to muster their motivation and beat the Mets. The Wes Helms at-bat was the turning point in my opinion. The Met hitters were dead through the first eight innings, but the team was still somewhat lively down 2-0. After the Marlins homered back-to-back, not only were the bats dead, but so was the Mets season and Shea Stadium.
It is flabbergasting to fathom this team fell again in the same way they fumbled to Florida last season.

Ryan Braun of the Brewers for MVP? If Ryan Howard doesn’t get the award, Braun is a likely candidate.

Not to undermine Favre’s fantastic flings, but how about the Jets’ defense catching interceptions, pressuring Kurt Warner and causing fumbles?


Parting points: I tried getting into the new Beverly Hills, 90210. The show just isn't the same.

Italian Icons

Famous Figures Paterno & Piazza

Shea Stadium held its final regular season game yesterday afternoon. There were dozens of former Mets honored during a post-game ceremony. I remember the day Mike Piazza was signed to play for New York. The entire city was elated. I am not even a Mets fan, and I was excited. In fact, I purchased a Piazza jersey that season and I almost never buy player’s jerseys. I only own three: Paul O’Neill, Troy Aikman and Mike Piazza. One memory I have of Mike is him flying out to Bernie Williams to end the Mets 2000 World Series. Another weird moment involving Piazza and the Yankees was the famous Roger Clemens bat incident.
Better moments existed in the respected righty’s career. The reason I like Piazza is because he reminds me of an old school ballplayer. You could insinuate his incredible infatuation and love for baseball. He played with passion and always gave his best effort. When Mike was in L.A. during the early part of his career, he was considered rebellious because he dated a Playboy model, sported long hair and played the guitar. I used to have a big Sports Illustrated for Kids poster and cover photo of Mike with his guitar. Piazza will undoubtedly enter the Hall Of Fame as one of the, if not the, best offensive catchers of all time. When the Mets released Piazza, I was pleased the Oakland A’s signed him to be their DH. I thought he would make a great fit in Oakland and influence the young hitters by the Bay. I think Piazza would make an excellent hitting instructor if he chooses to coach one day.
Another Hall Of Fame Italian, Joe Paterno, is having a terrific year. This is JoPa’s 43rd year as head coach of Penn State football. The Nittany Lions are undefeated so far this season. Joe began coaching PSU in 1966. It’s amazing that Mike Piazza was born two years later and is out of the game, while Paterno is still manning the sidelines in Happy Valley.
In ninth grade, I was fortunate enough to attend a summer tennis camp on the main Penn State Campus. What an experience it was walking around the farm town. The campus is basically its own little city. It took me some time to not get myself lost. The bookstore is a mini mall, the cafeteria capacity is considerable, and the outside pool plentiful. Beaver Stadium looked luxurious from the outside. I slept in the freshman dorms but was not impressed with the sleeping arrangements. Other than the dormitory I stayed in, the campus atmosphere was incredible. They have the best homemade ice cream from the creamery right on campus. I think I made a few trips to that place during my camp downtime. It was World Cup soccer time when I visited the campus too, so everyone was talking about Alexi Laylas and Cobe Jones. I always wanted to go to Penn State as a kid and part of the reason was because JoPa was a legend and icon of mine. I didn’t follow the football team much back then but he was an interesting fellow and coach to admire. His animated field etiquette was compelling. Joe Paterno in a suit and tie coaching his talented team is an image that sticks in my mind in this era of college football.
Piazza and Paterno have probably been role models for aspiring players and coaches for generations. They will continue to be remembered as the best at what they do for years and years to come. Interestingly, Piazza was born in Pennsylvania and adored by the same residents as Paterno.

Fun with numbers:
34 years ago, #34 pitched his 3rd no hitter:

On September 28, 1974, Nolan Ryan of the California Angels pitches his third career no-hitter. Ryan’s 4-0 shutdown of the Minnesota Twins puts him in
elite company. Ryan joins Sandy Koufax, Bob Feller, Cy Young, Larry Corcoran, and Jim Maloney as the only pitchers with three or more no-hitters. Ryan will eventually pitch seven no-hitters…

34 points for the Jets in the first quarter…

6 touchdowns for Favre, 6 turnovers for Warner


18 wins for SF Giants star, 18 straight batters retired by the Cubs in their loss to the Brewers

Congrats to Mike Mussina on his first 20-win season

Parting points:
Quiz to check out: Remember the children’s book series, Encyclopedia Brown?
http://www.kidsreads.com/funstuff/trivia/brown-triv.asp

Sunday, September 28, 2008

Batmen Begin


“What you really fear is inside yourself. You fear your own power. You fear your anger, the drive to do great or terrible things.” –from Batman Begins

A fresh foundation is what playoff baseball is all about. This is the time when unsung heroes shine, unsuspecting youngsters step up, and unregulated veterans swing for the fences. Everybody starts with a clean slate. Who doesn’t want a new start, where anything is possible no matter what happened throughout the year. October baseball is the reason the daily grind of the game is performed all Spring and summer. Some players will rise to the occasion and others will struggle. Sometimes the best team isn’t always the one who finishes at the top. The team that overcomes obstacles and faces fears with courage and conviction is often the victor.

Facing Fear

Don’t hit the ball to me, please
Don’t make me the winning run
Don’t run the count to full, you tease
Don’t hit the ball into the sun

I’m afraid to make the final out today
I’m afraid the ball will miss my mitt
I’m afraid they won’t all say hooray
I’m afraid to make the throw on a hit

Why do we bother to play this game?
The fears in our mind are ones we faced
The ones where we know we overcame
Little by little, can they all be erased?


Parting points: A few terrific songs for today: “Viva la Vida” by Coldplay and “Nightswimming” by R.E.M.

Saturday, September 27, 2008

Shutout Santana Shines Supremely

He was brilliant. He was superb. He was great. Johan Santana. What more can you say? Santana mowed down the Marlins with a mix of fastballs, curveballs and misleading changeups. It was that off speed pitch that outshined any other. Clearly Santana does not doubt his own ability. He pitched a complete game shutout (2-0) on three days’ rest in a must-win situation for the New York Mets. Santana’s durability and dominance demonstrates how valuable an ace is to a baseball team. An economical pitcher as artistic as Santana is so pleasant to watch work. This performance ranks up there with the likes of Greg Maddux, Pedro Martinez and Tom Glavine in their heydays. He painted the corners of the plate, struck out nine batters, and consistently and consecutively retired Marlin after Marlin. Kudos to Johan. If the Mets make the post-season, they have no one but Santana to thank. His sheer brilliance down the stretch was irreplaceable. He made today’s three hitter look as easy as blinking an eye.

Parting points: Sad to hear about the death of “Cool Hand Luke” Paul Newman at the age of 83.

Friday, September 26, 2008

Meeting Marshall

Morgantown, W.V. must be miffed with the malfunctioning Mountaineer football squad. The mayhem began 20 days ago when Mullen’s offense scored three puny points against the upstart, eager to electrify, BCS hopeful East Carolina. After opening the season with a convincing coup over Villanova, Bill Stewart’s WVU Mountaineers don’t appear the same shootout team.
The Villanova victory included a career high five touchdown passes by Patrick White. The 48-21 win made a believer out of Big East fans assuming a West Virginia undertaking of the conference. Before the trophy is tendered to them, let’s recap the results from the following two trouncings.
The ECU loss was heartbreaking enough, but an overtime overwhelming occurred when the Colorado Buffaloes convened in Boulder for the first time against WVU. Mountaineer kicker, Pat McAffe, missed a 23 yarder in OT. Perhaps the most disheartening aspect of that loss was the fact Noel Devine rushed for over 100 yards and the Mountaineer defense remained rock-hard.
Marshall’s Thundering Herd arrive tomorrow in Morgantown. They are coming in with a two game winning streak. Their only loss was a week two drubbing by the Big 10’s overbearing Badgers of Wisconsin.
I was high on this year’s Mountaineers despite the dent created by Steve Slaton and Owen Schmidt departing for the NFL. When Rich Rodriguez retreated to the Big House, I believed in Bill Stewart’s blend of offensive experience and special teams brilliance. White has new weapons in redshirt junior wide receiver, Alric Arnett and sophomore, Jock Sanders. Both made their presence felt against Villanova and need to maximize more against Marshall. Noel Devine was a second string tailback to the talented Slaton last season. On a backfield ranked fifth nationally coming into the season, I really want to see Noel become the big back for White. Jeff Mullen is an inventive coordinator and Devine would be prolific as a pass-blocker. This tactic could retool the offense and accentuate White’s capabilities behind center. I predict WVU pounces early and often against their inner-state adversary tomorrow. But beware the Marshall running game, led by Darious Marshall. WVU’s defense will have a hart time containing the sophomore.

Taking a look at the rest of the schedule, WVU likely ends with an 8-4 record at best. I think they will win against Marshall, Rutgers and Syracuse at home. On the road against Auburn will be rough and a probable loss. Away against UConn should prove another win despite the Huskies being undefeated thus far. Returning to West Virginia, the Big East opponents, Cincinnati and Louisville, I predict wins. And away at Pitt is a fun game and one of the game’s best rivalries. However, the Panthers are underachievers this year and the Mountaineers should win that contest. Finally the toughest road test will be the final game against the undefeated USF. That will likely be a road loss, the fourth of the year for WVU. Once this team gets rolling the next few weeks, they will reestablish that confidence they had previously.


Parting points: I think the wrong OSU beat USC. It wasn’t supposed to be the Beavers..the BUCKEYES!

Sports Stereotypes


I finally saw the movie, Friday Night Lights, after reading the book over four years ago. It was truly terrific. The flick made me think of stereotypes in sports and how certain athletes are portrayed by the public. It was funny to see the star running back Booby be the team chatterbox and spirit. The quarterback, Mike, was very timid. Here are some stereotypes commonly (at least I think) associated with each sport. Keep in mind, not all these are necessarily true reflections.

The “cerebral” golfer (Tiger Woods): Golf is such a heady game and one of preciseness and exactness. You definitely need patience and wit.

The “eccentric” runner (Marion Jones): Runners are very independent and individualistic. You have to be when it’s really only you and the track. Runners are used to their own routines and training.

The “preppy” soccer player (David Beckham): In high school, soccer was considered one of the preppie sports. Interestingly, it’s also probably the most popular worldwide one.

The “wimpy” tennis player (Andy Roddick): Tennis players are sometimes considered soft and sensitive. Being a tennis player myself, I tend to disagree. I am sensitive, but I am also a tough competitor. People always assumed Pete Sampras was a pretty boy, and maybe he was, but he did bring his best to the table. He was so consistently good.

The “overzealous” defensive lineman (Michael Strahan): The team tough guys have passion. They fire up their team and themselves. He is the center of the universe and enjoys every minute. When it comes to tackling and taking down quarterbacks, the serendipitous sack standouts know how to hit.

The “ritualistic” baseball player (Nomar Garciaparra): Is there a more superstitious sport than baseball? No mentioning no hitters, don’t mess up a batter’s batting practice routine or a pitcher’s scheduled throwing session, etc. The list goes on and on about rituals in baseball.

The “nonchalant” basketball player (Allen Iverson): Basketball is a casual sport played by laid-back stars in my opinion. Most of the NBA players are carefree and just look like they are having fun with the game. These guys have a “too cool” attitude. They also do not seem to care much about teamwork or the fans.

The “hotheaded” fastball pitcher (Roger Clemens): Think Randy Johnson and Roger Clemens in their heyday. Fierce and just darn mean on the mound, you do not want to mess with these screwballs! They throw as quickly as they rouse.

The “quiet” quarterback (Eli Manning): Last year’s Superbowl MVP is a perfect example of an A plus athlete who leads their team by example. Manning never had to declare he was the team’s most valuable player but let his actions do the talking. Most good QBs of the past (Steve Young, Joe Montana, Troy Aikman) were similar.

The “Redneck” racecar driver (Dale Earnhardt): Nascar and racing in general is such a southern and Midwest sport. The popularity is seen mostly in rural towns and it just makes sense they are labeled as such.

The “nice” hockey player (Mike Richter): Ok, so there are violent fights all the time in the sport of hockey. But, if you take a look at the NHL, the men who star are very nice people. They greet and thank fans and go about their business with little scrutiny. There are exceptions but I view hockey players the nicest of all professional athletes.

The “pampered” boxer (Oscar de la Hoya): All boxers really do is go out and fight for their lives. Everything else is taken care of by trainers and promoters. Nothing is easy in the ring I am sure, but boxers have it made when it comes to the necessities of life.

The “chatty” swimmer (Michael Phelps): Maybe it was all the Olympic exposure Phelps got, but I consider swimmers talkative and somewhat arrogant. The swimmers I’ve known are chatty and exuberant. Ironically, they are sometimes loners as well.


Parting points: The weekend forecast looks glum. The waters are coming.

From Casablanca:
Captain Renault: What in heaven's name brought you to Casablanca? Rick: My health. I came to Casablanca for the waters. Captain Renault: The waters? What waters? We're in the desert. Rick: I was misinformed.

I recommend renting and reading Friday Night Lights if you haven’t already. I hear good things about the television series and I’d like to catch a bunch of episodes eventually.

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Grounded Gratification

A chocolate-colored glove and a gentle grip
He grabs the globe in the giant gathering place
Everyone on board is focused on this trip
An inning of three to go, guaranteeing grace

The three on guard watch gallantly with girth
Their fearless fingers fumble freely about
Grasping the goods, wondering about their worth
Wishing for glory, gratitude and remaining stout

A swing and a miss times seven gives him the lead
He is relentless and ruthless, creating discord
Right arm down his side, a final glare grants greed
Inside he is grounded and humble, with internal reward

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Delgado’s Demoralizing Deep Drive

What an incredible inning at Shea. Carlos Delgado blasted a grand slam against Carlos Zambrano in the bottom of the third inning to give the Mets a 5-1 advantage. Big Z walked three consecutive hitters as it is clear he is upset with the home plate umpire. He can’t find his fastball command tonight. Let’s see if the Mets can keep the lead. Oliver Perez is pitching and is already over 80 pitches after four innings.
I’ve seen Delgado live in person when he slugged for the Toronto Bluejays at the Skydome. His power is unprecedented and when he is in the zone, he looks every bit an MVP and Allstar as he is. The man knows what to do with a bat, that’s for sure.
Mets fans: You gotta believe!

Riveting Rockets Remembered

Classy Champs

The 2008 Yankees will miss the baseball playoffs. It’s the first time since 1994 the franchise will go home after the last regular season ballgame. Reflecting back, I’m reminiscing about the year 1994 and the Houston Rockets of the NBA. The Rockets had a championship season that year behind the great Hakeem “The Dream” Olajuwon. Hakeem hailed from the University of Houston. The celebrated center helped lead his team to a 4-3 series win against the New York Knicks. The Rocket rebounder represented resolute, resolved, and recognized ability. Number 34 was drafted number one overall in 1984 and ten years later, I recall watching Hakeem and the Rockets win two games at home to capture the NBA crown. New York’s John Starks missed a crucial potential game winning point in Game 6 as “The Dream” blatantly batted down his shot. This key clutch play if often talked about most when basketball fans remember the Rockets. I recall other outstanding moments and players who stepped up to patiently preserve the championship for Houston. Otis Thorpe, Robert Horry, Sam Cassell, Carl Herrera and Vernon Maxwell were stellar stars. Houston averaged about 100 points per game that season and cemented a legacy in my heart. The year after winning the championship in ’94, Clyde Drexler joined his former college teammate Hakeem. The two were like bookends on defense and offense for the Rockets. I couldn’t get enough of their teamwork.
Today’s Rockets feature ferocious figures also. Tracy McGrady and his famed Adidas sneakers somehow cheapen the legacy. Don’t get me wrong, I still love my team and root for them. The NBA atmosphere isn’t the same with enormous endorsement deals and entourages overshadowing the game itself. I long for the player who portrays class and considers the game precious. The pretentious and pompous players today are too proud and petty. Most of them are detrimental to the sport. I am now more inclined to tune my tube into a college basketball game. However much I complain about the NBA today though, I am looking forward to the 2008-09 Rockets. From Alston to Artest, Brooks to Battier, McGrady to Mutumbo and Scola to Strawberry, the Rockets will be contenders in the west. And you cannot forget the contribution of Yao Ming. He’s an immense presence in the league and has an affable appearance. The dominant defender Ming is as close to this era’s version of Hakeem and I can think. But, the style is still light years away.

Sad note from New York Giants radio: Long time player and announcer, Dick Lynch, passed away from Leukemia. I am a big radio listener and I loved hearing him do play by play every Sunday.
Not so noble note from Giants camp: Plaxico Burress was suspended for not showing up for practice Monday. Shame on him.


Parting points: College football should be interesting this Saturday. Big Ten conference play kicks off, featuring some cool games. I want to see the outcome of the Georgia-Alabama game. I do not like either team but want to see the Bulldogs go down for once.

Song of the day: “Let it die” by Foo Fighters
Link of the day:
http://pauloneill21.com/news/2008/stadium_farewell.html Some great Paul O’Neill pics from Sunday

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Trading Traditions

Baseball cards are valuable entities to many collectors. The memorabilia and sports trading card business is big. My own baseball card collection is a special, sentimental set of timepieces. They are like memorable songs. Each one has its own story behind it and brings me back to a certain time and place. I cherish each card individually and would have a hard time parting with any. I was never taken with trading them. But I was all for admiring them. It was my own tradition after opening each pack as a kid to write down the names and numbers of every card. A notebook paper database was my baseball card Bible. Even if I couldn’t pronounce the name Pete Incaviglia or had no idea who the Indian’s rookie, Mark Lewis, would become, I kept the cards safe and secure in plastic binding. I did have a tradition of putting baseball cards in my bike spokes like other kids. If the cards were shredded, I threw them out. I kept the ones that simply had creases.
The majority of my cards are from the years 1987-1995. My favorite card as a kid was a 1989 Topps Kevin Elster card with the Mets’ shortstop kneeling on the grass with his bat before him. He has on blue Franklin batting gloves and is squinting at something in the field. I think I must have had a crush on Elster because there are more #21 Kevin Elster cards in my collection than any child should have. He wasn’t that good. Nolan Ryan was my favorite pitcher and I am proud of all my Ryan cards. I managed to accumulate 33 total. I have some rare Yankee cards in a Deion Sanders and Bucky Dent manager card. Neither last long in pinstripes. My favorite cards series is probably the 1992 Fleer one. The eye-catching, shiny teal frame and yellow type somehow sparked my interest and I kept every one of those. I am not sure of its value, but another cool card in my binder is a Topps 1987 Athletics Leaders card with Mark McGwire and Jose Canseco standing tall in green and gold with their bats in their right hands. I think that card is the reason I started rooting for the Oakland A’s. I seem to have many Mookie Wilson cards because he was my sister’s favorite player. She liked his name and somehow was able to collect a small amount of trading cards. A Wade Boggs ’88 Record Breaker is one I acquired via trade with a neighbor. I didn’t know better back then to not collect Red Sox players. I just wanted the card because I felt it was worth something. Finally, I have a Gregg Jefferies Future Star card with the terrible third baseman in ready position next to the blue and orange Shea seats. The reason I love this card so much is because someone once stole it from me and I had to beg to get it back. It did happen to adore Gregg. That smile was hard to resist.

Parting points: Missouri’s Chase Daniel deserves some Heisman consideration. He threw for his 20th straight completion and set a Big 12 record last weekend.
Happy Birthday to Jaba Chamberlain too.

Marquis Messes Mets’ Monday

It was the New York Mets vs. Jason Marquis last evening during the final homestand at Shea Stadium. The other Cubs competitors could’ve collected at Wrigley without worry the way this game went. Mets fans are inured to this type of game. The bullpen wasn’t the problem for the Mets entirely. Instead, the team was trounced when the bats bombed with runners on base. David Wright had a homerun in the 9-5 loss last night. Carlos Delgado hit a moon shot during Sunday’s ninth-inning. The Mets are coming up shorts; too little, too late. All season, the hitters have flopped in the clutch and last night, the double play ball hurt the Mets. The pitching isn’t without blame because how can you explain enabling a grand slam by a pitcher? Apparently this is nothing new for New York. Remember when Santana surrendered one to fantastic Felix Hernandez against Seattle? Well, Santana pitches tonight and the Mets need his high earnings to endure more than the norm. How about throwing eight or nine innings? Playing the Cubs is a test for the Mets, and the players knew that coming in to the series. This could be the first round playoff match up, if the Mets should be so lucky to clinch the NL wildcard. They just need to get their momentum back.
Baseball is a great sport. No lead is safe during September. Think about it. The Mets are now relying heavily on the Pittsburgh Pirates to beat the Milwaukee Brewers. If they win, they wouldn’t have to deign their destiny or figure their fate in a sub .500 club.
I am sharpening my number two pencil and writing it down: The Cubs will be in the World Series. Keep in mind, I have an eraser at the end of my pencil.

Parting points: I still have to check out the new Beck cd. I am addicted to the first single, “Gamma Ray”. An amazing artist that Beck.

Teasing Tomlinson Torches Turnover Thomas’ Team

Jets go down 48-29 in mistake-filled loss
The Jets and Chargers are both 1-2 after their Monday Night showdown in week three of the NFL. The equivalent records reveal little about the direction each is heading however. The Chargers are climbing while Gang Green is going downhill. The Jets weren’t expected to be victorious in San Diego coming in to the season. The schedule experts envisioned a loss. But the interceptions and fumbles are what have Jets followers most down today. The offensive line looked lost, the Jets couldn’t establish the run, and receivers were not on the same page as their star quarterback. The Chargers punting unit was seen only once.
LT carried the load on an injured right toe, rushing for two touchdowns. Antonio Cromartie showed his capabilities at cornerback with two interceptions, one for a touchdown. When healthy, there isn’t a more demanding defensive corner in the league. The Chargers are coming off two tough takedowns and rebounded without restraint against the clueless Jets. The season is by no means over for New York. They still have a very good chance to make the playoffs. If they play well against their division rivals, I can see them winning the AFC East. Buffalo is undefeated, the Patriots can never be counted out, and the same Miami team they faced in week one will be tougher later in the season. But the Jets have the talent to excel in a Brett Favre-led offense. The play calling is questionable and the Jets need Thomas Jones and Jericho Cochery to become playmakers on offense. Favre is used to having big time receivers in addition to his solid throwing arm. For all his boldness and radiance in Green Bay, Favre now looks misplaced in Manhattan.
One other Jets note: What is with Mike Nugent? I’ve followed his career since he came out of the national championship Ohio State program, but I have to say, am disappointed and dissatisfied with his overall production.

Hockey, anyone? Preseason hockey loss for the Devils. Rangers won though. Will they choke again?

Parting points: Week three inspires a quote from American Graffiti: “Yeah, three weeks? Besides, it only took me one night to realize if brains were dynamite, you couldn’t blow your nose.”

Monday, September 22, 2008

Dashing Derrick Delivers Despite Dismal Defense

The New York football Giants are 3-0 and tied on top of the NFC East with the Dallas Cowboys. Eli Manning had a genuine game, throwing to Toomer on third and ten in overtime to set up the winning field goal by John Carney. I liked what I saw from Derrick Ward on the ground. He carried the ball 9 times for 80 plus yards. The Giants secondary defense is another story. They allowed copious third down conversions and could not stop Carson Palmer from throwing for 286 yards. Even though the Giants are still sacking successfully and have restricted rivals from putting up points, the loss of Osi is obviously observed.

This was not the week to release Fred Taylor from my fantasy football team.

Who is more enjoyable to watch? Ken Griffey Jr. and his sweet swing or Reggie Bush breaking out? Just plain pretty performers.

Things I want to see in sports today: Lane Kiffin axed, Eric Mangini allowing Brett Favre to throw the ball like he knows how, the Chargers waking from their September slumber, the Mets stop stranding runners in scoring position, Joe Girardi admitting the season sensibly over


Parting points: I was disappointed Florida State lost to Wake Forest. I’d like to see the Seminoles contend in the ACC and stay near the top of the AP/Coach’s poll and be the team to beat in Florida (hard when the Tim Tebow-led Gators are 3-0)
Poll jumpers: Vanderbilt is 21, Wisconsin is 9 and LSU is 5.

Composed Closer Closure

A sweet sweep sent Yankees fans home happy last night to close down the stadium. It was only fitting that this team swept the Orioles during their final series in the building and of the year. Even more fitting was seeing Mariano Rivera finish the game. It was a non-save situation but the sophisticated Sandman still shut down the O’s for the game’s final three outs. Perhaps Rivera is the most valuable Yankee during their 90’s/00’s championship run. He’s been the one cornerstone and constant piece the team relies on in big games. I think the idea of having a dominant closer is overrated. It’s entirely possible to win without one. However, you cannot diminish what Mo has accomplished and the fact he gets the job done year in and year out. Where would the Yankees be without Rivera?
That being said, all the fuss over moving Jaba Chamberlain to the starting rotation from the bullpen is crazy. Why would the Yankees not want Jaba starting games every five days? He has a repertoire of solid stuff and the audacity to take the ball at any given moment. Yes, it would be great to have a “new” Mariano Rivera once Mo decides to hang up the cleats. But why waste what Jaba brings to the table only to use him in closing situations?

Something weird: I had a dream Saturday night that Jose Molina hit the final homerun at Yankee Stadium. Certainly creepy.

And a final reflection on the great Yankees teams from recent years. I still remember Game 6 the night of October 26, 1996. I stayed up watching the entire game and did not move from my brown recliner. I was too superstitious to change seats or get up for a break. The Yankees beat the Braves that night and I remember crying the moment it happened.
After seeing Bernie back in the Bronx yesterday, I thought of a wonderful Williams walkoff homerun. I attended a game in the late 90’s and honestly cannot recall who the Yankees were playing. Bernie hit the ball to the right field stands in the bottom of the ninth inning as I watched it sail by from my seat near the foul pole. The commotion in the crowd is what I remember from that day in NY.


Parting points: A good closure song to spin is “Shadow of the day” by Linkin Park.

Sunday, September 21, 2008

Tennis Timing

Here's a tribute to my favorite sport to play:

I hear that timing is everything
It stands still sometimes too
You can have perfect timing
Or it matters not when you do what you do

If I train myself to time my forehand
The ball bounces before I step to stride
And as it rises the way I planned
My racquet sends it for a ride

A shuffle back to the baseline buys me time
Seconds only, I scramble to the middle
As she pounds the object down the line
I imagine a shot designed to fiddle

The return is deceptive, pinching the alley
Good timing on my part, I force her to net
She has a hard time continuing our rally
My point this time, love-one in the first set




Parting points: Yes, the Mets bullpen blew it again. They cannot close games. It reminds me of the Electric Slide. Everyone on the dance floor knows it’s coming and someone has to lead the way, but nobody actually knows HOW to do it. The Mets are slowly sliding.

An Acquiescence Autumn Afternoon


Yogi Berra once said, “It gets late early”. Yesterday afternoon in NY was one of those days as the Yankees won their second to last game in front of the hometown crowd. The game was scoreless through nine innings, surging speedily on a Fall day. The leaves on the trees here in NY are starting to scatter on the ground, and there is that smell of the new season in the air already. One of the best things about this time of year is, of course, the Fall Classic. It will be difficult to follow the playoffs without the Yankees for me. As an avid baseball fan though, I can certainly cope.
Robinson Cano drove in the winning run in the bottom of the ninth with the bases loaded to seal the deal for the Yankees. Cano is no Steve Sax in my book (Sax was never terrific at second base either but he appealed to me as a child) but he has so much ability and potential. He reminds me of a young Alfonso Soriano who started out lackadaisical in NY before he got it all together. I really hope Cano continues to develop as a player, defensively and at the plate. His immaturity and cockiness have overshadowed his play this year. I think he misses Larry Bowa’s presence, but hopefully Joe Girardi will put the kid in his place.


Speaking of stellar second basemen and moving on to a team in contention, I loved Ryne Sandberg when he played for the Cubs. Maybe this is finally the year for the Chicago Cubs. After all, isn’t the hype around the nation about the economy and the bear market? Wouldn’t it be ironic if the Cubs won the World Series? The Carlos Zambrano, Rich Harden, Ted Lilly tandem sure sounds solid. Lou really has that club together. I am a big fan of Pinella, so I am pulling for the paws this postseason.


Are you looking for a scare this October? How about Manny Ramirez and what he is doing out in L.A.? The former Red Sox slugger is putting up frightening figures for Torre and the Dodgers. Trick-or-treating in dreadlocks this Halloween could be fun. He is one of the most popular men in L.A. recently. Another five runs driven in behind a three run and two run homerun is impressive. The Dodgers lack the depth of the Cubs but you have to like their chances. The NL is very weak overall.


Are the Rays really respectable? I think so. Joe Maddon makes me mull over what Tampa Bay can accomplish in the post-season. It’s nice to see Rocco Baldelli back on the field. He was one of the most hyped players when he was drafted but his ailing health has set him back. The team does not have a standout player nor do they have any experience in playoff situations. If they are able to win the AL East, they have a good chance making the ALCS. However, if they fail to win the division and only clinch the wildcard, I cannot see them overtaking the Angels in round one of the playoffs.

The Brewers meltdown is similar to what happened in 2007 to the Mets. How does a pitching staff surrender seven homeruns to the Cincinnati Reds? I guess firing Ned Yost helped very little and it’s safe to say the Brewers will miss the playoffs.

Does Derek detest getting dinked by opposing pitchers? It doesn’t seem he minds at all. Jeter was hit by a pitch during the Yankees win yesterday. It’s like he’s trying to break Craig Biggio’s HBP record.

Parting points: My song of the moment is Green Day’s “Wake Me Up When September Ends”. The playoff picture curves clearer as Autumn arrives.

Saturday, September 20, 2008

Does Dallas’ defense deliver?

Tony and T.O. travel to the tundra (not quite yet) in Wisconsin this Sunday night for what should be one of the week’s best games in the NFL. Romo established himself in the NFC since he started for the Cowboys two years ago. His pocket poise and sideline scramble success opens up the Cowboys offense. Owens is Romo’s number one receiver. The wideout has talent and speed but the Packers defense is going to challenge him. Tight End, Jason Whitten, was injured last Monday night against the Eagles and is questionable for the game on Sunday. Therefore, I expect Romo will be throwing TO’s way even more than usual. Tony has to protect the football. If the Packers double up on T.O., Romo still has the running option with swift running back, Marion Barber or raucous rookie, Felix Jones. AJ Hawk is one scary Packer defender to keep note of this season. By the way, this Troy Aikman fan thinks Tony Romo is capable of winning an MVP. I still like the Aikman to Irvin combo better than Romo to T.O.
The Cowboys’ defensive line did not pressure McNabb much in game two. The secondary showed several shaky symptoms, and the team was hurt by the penalty. Defense is necessary if Dallas wants to stop the Packers’ Greg Jennings, Donald Driver, and the impressive Aaron Rogers. Something tells me Rogers will outperform Romo but the Cowboys will pull out of Lambeau with their first ever victory…
I find this statistic amazing: The Cowboys have NEVER beaten the Packers in Green Bay. The team has won when the team played in Milwaukee, but never at Lambeau Field.

It is still entirely too early to start worrying (or getting too excited) about teams but it’s surprising to me the Chargers and Vikings haven’t won a game and the Bills are undefeated. Buffalo will always carry that jinx of losing three Superbowls. I find it hard to imagine a legitimate, lethal, dominant and durable season shaping soon in the snowbelt. Then again, I am still amazed the Giants beat the Patriots to win the Superbowl last February.

Keep an eye on Rashad Mendenhall and Willie Parker in Pittsburgh. As the running game goes, so go the Steelers, especially with an ailing Big Ben.

Parting points:
Is the U.S. going to win the Ryder Cup? Mickelson and Kim are like the odd couple. Who put them together? It is working well.
Book recommendation for baseball fans: Three Nights In August by Buzz Bisinger and Tony LaRussa. I am halfway through and am just enjoying every page thus far.


This just in:
Terrelle has a terrific time vs. Troy. Two TD’s in first half, two in the second half. That’s four more than he had a week ago. Go Buckeyes!
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=282640194

Bye Bye Bronx

September 21st is the final game at Yankee Stadium. Lefty, Andy Pettitte, will take the mound for the last time in the House That Ruth Built. Another lefty, David “Boomer” Wells, is the topic of this blog entry. Wells holds a very special place in my heart because he pitched a perfect game on my birthday (May 17th) Since silencing sluggers’ sticks that day, I’ve felt some connection with him. Paul O’Neill is my favorite modern day Yankee but David Wells is an icon indeed. Boomer never really took himself seriously and was too often involved in controversy. But, when it came to pitching, nobody was as close to perfect as David. As Yankee Stadium closes its doors Sunday, I am going to share my favorite stadium moment.
August 20, 2003 was a hazy summer afternoon. I took the train with my father to Yankee Stadium early enough to arrive in the city with time to visit Monument Park. It was great to be on break from college and attend a late season game against the hapless Kansas City Royals. In all my years rooting for the Yankees, I never went to Monument Park. I just wanted to see Lou Gehrig’s plaque in person once. The Ironhorse will always be my favorite athlete of all time. That day, Wells was not pitching but he was warming up on the outfield grass as Mel Stottlemeyer watched. David delivered devastating fastballs frantically and forcefully to the warm-up catcher. Fans were observing Boomer’s every pitch from behind the gates of the park. I stood silently as Wells finished his tosses and casually opened the door to Monument Park, four feet from where I stood. I didn’t even see the ball in his hand as he peered into my eyes, handed me the white object, and dashed away towards the bullpen. Not a word was exchanged between me and this immense icon. The fans around me, including my father (who really does not like the Yankees; he’s actually a Mets fan) were all smiling in amazement. I froze and pondered placidly gripping Wells’ baseball in my right hand. It was a very special day because I also got two autographs from the visiting players (Royals). Looking out at the diamond from Monument Park is beautiful. Yankee Stadium truly is a historic place. I’ll miss walking around the inside, ordering pastrami sandwiches, buying my yearbook, and checking out the jerseys for sale. Mostly, I will miss those initial moments as you walk out into the stands and see the entire stadium. Everybody talks about the aura. For me, the aura happens that instant when you have your father next to you, your Yankee cap on your head and the ball field bustling before you.

Here’s hoping Pettitte pitches well and Mo Rivera closes his last game with a big time win and ovation.

Parting points: Speaking of great venues to watch sports, I think Camden Yards would be a great one to attend. I’ve only seen Camden from the outside but I can sense a similar aura about the ballpark in Baltimore as the old Yankee Stadium. I really hope the new stadium is just as cozy.

Tressel's troubled team tackles Troy today

Buckeyes bummed by Beanie’s benching

The college football world was centered around the Coliseum as USC hosted Ohio State last weekend. The outcome for the Buckeyes was nothing to write home about. (35-3 loss) The Trojans teased and taunted Todd and Terrelle throughout the four quarters of the game. Ohio State head coach, Jim Tressel, used an interesting attack early in the game and OSU actually looked impressive on their second drive of the first quarter. However, the resulting field goal was anything but stellar. The Buckeyes should have come away with no less than seven points during that drive. It was a humbling game for Ohio State to say the least.
This week, our humble heroes host at home in the Horseshoe. The visitors will be from Troy (what is with all these Greek teams?) On one hand, it seems like this could be another let-down game. If the Buckeyes show up playing like they did prior to USC when they barely outlasted Ohio University, they probably pitifully pummel. I happen to think Ohio State will bounce back by beating and battering this Troy team. I admit knowing next to noting about Troy except that they shut out Acorn State last Saturday, 65-0! The demoralizing defeat definitely does damage to the national title hopes of the Buckeyes. But, I think last week’s wreck will only inspire the team to step it up. I would not be surprised to see the Buckeyes win the Big Ten again or go undefeated the rest of the season. Tressel has taken too much heat for the big losses the Bucks have suffered during his reign. I know this team has failed to flourish in the final games of the season. Somehow though, I believe with the addition of Terrelle Pryor and the exemplary leadership of James Laurinaitus, Brian Robiskie, Malcom Jenkins, Marcus Freeman, Brian Hartline and the rest of the veteran players, Ohio State will come out near the top of the BCS polls by season’s end. Chris “Beanie” Wells was injured in week one and that is a huge loss. Down a running back and Heisman hopeful, OSU needs to adjust, adapt and alternate an action plan. Tressel is the man to assemble a formidable alternative. By all indications, it does seem as if Beanie will be back soon anyway. Next week, the division games stars, as OSU takes on Minnesota. It would be a perfect time for a Wells’ return.

In the Big East, could things be any worse? Syracuse stinks. (At least they have The Express movie coming in October) West Virginia is underwelming. (Pat White for Heisman? Not) Pitt is puny. Rutgers can’t run without Rice, and Cincy is corruptible. Only South Florida looks somewhat strong. And how about UConn? 4-0? Are you kidding me?

Parting Points: Are the NY Mets going to collapse again? Despite what the naysayers think, I predict the Mets win the NL East. The bullpen is definitely scary but for some reason, this team has been in the race. Either way, it will be an interesting two weeks in baseball as the pennant races conclude. This thing is going down to the last day.

Oh, and I heard the new Fallout Boy single on the radio. I never liked them too much but the song “I don’t care” hits the spot.

Friday, September 19, 2008

Intimate Introduction

Hi, and welcome to Athlete Alliteration. I decided to create a blog dedicated to sports and the literary device: alliteration.

I enjoy everything having to do with athletics, including professional, college, and amateur. Writing about sports has always been one of my passions. This blog will feature my opinions, poems, and features on various sports topics. Of course, I will try to use alliteration as much as possible. Sports sure sound super when written with wit!