There is something about baseball cards that brings out the inner child in me. The cardboard collectibles rank up there with kickball games, Saturday morning cartoons, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and running under the sprinkler in the summer. All invoke blissful childhood memories. So whenever I see a pack of cards, feelings of nostalgia overwhelm me, especially old school varieties. It isn’t just the photographs that appeal to me. Baseball card layouts intrigue me. It doesn’t take an overly creative person to craft the cards but every edition is different. I think it would be fun to make baseball cards, but I really do not know if baseball card creator qualifies as a job title.
My baseball card collection is a sporadic compilation of brands, players and oddities ranging from the mid-1940’s through today. I couldn’t help myself when I passed the vending machine at my local grocery store and peeked into the cards for sale. The 75 cent tag next to A3 was most appealing. I followed my ball card impulse by inserting a one dollar bill into the machine. My chosen pack was labeled “1992 Premier Edition Donruss Triple Play”. The black sleeve glistened as I pulled it out from the bottom flap of the display and retrieved my quarter from the coin slot. In my hands was a terrific treasure. Inside my apartment, I unwrapped these 15 player cards:
Darren Lewis—San Francisco Giants
Lou Whitaker—Detroit Tigers
Royce Clayton—San Francisco Giants
Jack McDowell—Chicago Whitesox
Benito Santiago—San Diego Padres
Brian Harper—Minnesota Twins
Dave Magadan—New York Mets
Dave Stewart—Oakland A’s
Lenny Dykstra—Philadelphia Phillies
Milt Cuyler—Detroit Tigers
Doug Drabek—Pittsburgh Pirates
Juan Gonzalez—Texas Rangers
Jose Oquendo—St. Louis Cardinals
Bob Welch—Oakland A’s
Randy Johnson—Seattle Mariners
I could have done a lot better, but I’ll take what I can get. It ‘s weird how these cards are now 17 years old, yet the players are still very familiar to me. It’s fitting for me to be typing this on the new laptop computer I just purchased. A new pack of baseball cards is the perfect way to initiate my keyboard to my card crazy typing.
Parting points: Happy Birthday to former REM drummer, Bill Berry. Jamming and rocking out to REM’s “Out Of Time” album.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Poll Picking
Congratulations to the Buckeyes. They were picked to win the Big 10 by conference voters at media day. Penn State was runner=up, followed by Michigan State.
Rickey Rewarded
Newly inducted baseball Hall-of-Famer, Rickey Henderson, liked to run the bases. His dirt-soiled uniform and highly admired running game and stealing skills are forever part of baseball greatness. Henderson was voted into Cooperstown on his first try and inducted last Sunday, along with Jim Rice. Rickey’s speed and athleticism were as infectious as his genuine love for the game. The throwback player with the wide grin is a reminder of how baseball should be played.
The game’s greatest leadoff hitter changed uniforms several times throughout his career as he set the precedent for batting in the one hole. During his playing days, the flashy speedster Henderson made on-base-percentage a significant statistic, setting the standard for scrappy sluggers in every city. Henderson had a mind-blowing .401 career on-base-percentage. And whenever he was on base, he was the toughest out and most distracting player on the field. It was difficult for opposing pitchers to ignore Rickey on the bases with his incredible fleetness.
Henderson holds the single-season and career record for steals. Rickey’s occasional power also entitles him to the record for most homers to leadoff a game. The five-tool player was as gifted as any in working the count, drawing walks and snagging a few bases each game. Rickey was an autonomous figure on the diamond as he created opportunities from routine grounders. Hitting and scoring came easy to the humble hitting hero Henderson. The composed outfielder set practically indissoluble records in runs with 2,295 and stolen bases with 1,406 during his brilliant career.
Henderson was just as cool in his induction speech as he was on the base paths over two decades. He delivered what many observers felt was the best Hall-Of-Fame speeches in recent years. Rickey remarked how his journey as a player was completed with Sunday’s shrine in Cooperstown. He dreamed of starring for football’s Oakland Raiders as a boy, but his mother encouraged Rickey to play baseball in order to mitigate possible injuries. Henderson acknowledged his childhood idols, Muhammad Ali and Reggie Jackson also.
I remember the left fielder, who was born on Christmas Day, from his four years in pinstripes during the 1980s. I also faintly recall his 1990 MVP season for the AL and his leadoff hitting days with the World Series champion 1989 Oakland A’s and 1993 Toronto Bluejays. The ten time All-star was an outspoken, sometimes outrageous, voice on all the clubs he competed. My favorite Rickey quote occurred the night he became the sport’s all-time stolen base leader, surpassing Lou Brock with 939 steals. Henderson’s remarkable achievement was overshadowed by Nolan Ryan’s 7th no-hitter on May 1, 1991. Ryan has always been one of my very favorite pitchers and all-time players. After the game, the talented Henderson delighted in saying, “If you haven’t been struck out by Nolan Ryan, you’re nobody.”
Parting points: This entry was supposed to be posted on Monday but I am having some issues getting online. Better late than never. This is the only time I can get online.
The game’s greatest leadoff hitter changed uniforms several times throughout his career as he set the precedent for batting in the one hole. During his playing days, the flashy speedster Henderson made on-base-percentage a significant statistic, setting the standard for scrappy sluggers in every city. Henderson had a mind-blowing .401 career on-base-percentage. And whenever he was on base, he was the toughest out and most distracting player on the field. It was difficult for opposing pitchers to ignore Rickey on the bases with his incredible fleetness.
Henderson holds the single-season and career record for steals. Rickey’s occasional power also entitles him to the record for most homers to leadoff a game. The five-tool player was as gifted as any in working the count, drawing walks and snagging a few bases each game. Rickey was an autonomous figure on the diamond as he created opportunities from routine grounders. Hitting and scoring came easy to the humble hitting hero Henderson. The composed outfielder set practically indissoluble records in runs with 2,295 and stolen bases with 1,406 during his brilliant career.
Henderson was just as cool in his induction speech as he was on the base paths over two decades. He delivered what many observers felt was the best Hall-Of-Fame speeches in recent years. Rickey remarked how his journey as a player was completed with Sunday’s shrine in Cooperstown. He dreamed of starring for football’s Oakland Raiders as a boy, but his mother encouraged Rickey to play baseball in order to mitigate possible injuries. Henderson acknowledged his childhood idols, Muhammad Ali and Reggie Jackson also.
I remember the left fielder, who was born on Christmas Day, from his four years in pinstripes during the 1980s. I also faintly recall his 1990 MVP season for the AL and his leadoff hitting days with the World Series champion 1989 Oakland A’s and 1993 Toronto Bluejays. The ten time All-star was an outspoken, sometimes outrageous, voice on all the clubs he competed. My favorite Rickey quote occurred the night he became the sport’s all-time stolen base leader, surpassing Lou Brock with 939 steals. Henderson’s remarkable achievement was overshadowed by Nolan Ryan’s 7th no-hitter on May 1, 1991. Ryan has always been one of my very favorite pitchers and all-time players. After the game, the talented Henderson delighted in saying, “If you haven’t been struck out by Nolan Ryan, you’re nobody.”
Parting points: This entry was supposed to be posted on Monday but I am having some issues getting online. Better late than never. This is the only time I can get online.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
(Un)Returnable
My crosscourt forehand misses the white tape of the net by an inch
It’s a disguised designed passing ploy plopping on the line with a pinch
The parallel ally marks are borders bounding my breaking ball shot
A whip of the wrist harvests a hard hit rifle resembling a jot
An uncomplicated shift with a shuffle step to net
Followed by a backhand slice volley no one has returned yet
It’s a disguised designed passing ploy plopping on the line with a pinch
The parallel ally marks are borders bounding my breaking ball shot
A whip of the wrist harvests a hard hit rifle resembling a jot
An uncomplicated shift with a shuffle step to net
Followed by a backhand slice volley no one has returned yet
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Met Mess
Miguel Tejada leads the major leagues in multi-hit games with 39. The Houston Astros are winners of seven straight games. They just swept the St. Louis Cardinals and extended their home winning streak to a season high five games when they won the opener of a three game set at Minute Maid Park. The Astros, of course, welcomed the a New York Mets team mingled in a mirage of muddled chaos. The Mets have lost six of eight games since coming back from the All-Star break and are all but out of contending for the NL East. The Phillies hold a ten game lead in the division and there are seven teams ahead of the Mets for the NL wildcard.
The grisliness that is the New York Mets reached epic proportions with Vice President, Tony Bernazard’s diatribe on the Binghamton Mets. Sources say the top executive took off his shirt and challenged the minor league players to a fight, while cursing out Met management. Bernazard reportedly also had a bout with closer, Francisco Rodriguez on the team bus returning from Atlanta last week. The ongoing investigation of Bernazard will continue and so will the plague of pathetic play as long as Jerry Manuel fields this team. New York is nothing more than a Triple A team in shambles. The offense is weakened due to injuries but the Mets cannot use that as an excuse for not hitting. They lack deep and dominant pitching and have precious little to trade before the July 31st baseball deadline. The Mets do not have a stacked minor league system and aside from a handful of serviceable relievers and Gary Sheffield, have nothing to offer opposing clubs. If Jose Reyes could stay on the field and prove himself in good health and a good attitude, the Mets would have a chip to offer. But Reyes is currently damaged goods and teams are not going to risk acquiring the All-star shortstop. Daniel Murphy is viable trade bait as well. However, the Mets cannot lose Murphy at first base despite his mediocre production. With Carlos Delgado’s return pending, the Mets either need to trade for a first baseman with a big bat or move David Wright to the other side of the infield. Then, the problem of filling the hot corner becomes number one on the agenda. The Mets are just not hitting and are leaving too many runners on base when they do reach safely. Manuel has seen his team shut out five times in July and nine times this season.
Last night, the team ace Johan Santana, endured one of his worst outings on a muggy Houston mound. Santana allowed 15 runners to reach base in six plus innings. He struck out just three Astros, and gave up a two-run homerun to opposing pitcher and former Amazin’ Mike Hampton. The veteran Hampton allowed four runs on eight hits in the 5-4 Houston victory. The southpaw fanned seven Mets and walked four over 5 2/3 impressive innings to pick up his sixth win. The Astros received crisp contributions from every batter in the lineup, and from the shining defense. Chris Coste provided the difference-making double with his two-run smack in the fifth. The Mets drew first blood with a Wright RBI single in the first inning. New Met, Jeff Francoeur and fill-in, Fernando Tatis thwarted the Mets opportunity with consecutive outs.
The Astros responded to the 1-0 New York lead in the bottom of the first. Kaz Matsui and Tejada stroked back-to-back singles with one out against Santana. Johan ended his 15 inning scoreless streak when Astros’ sluggler Carlos Lee delivered an RBI single. After a Jeff Keppinger double with two down in the fourth, Hampton gave himself a 3-1 margin with his 16th career long ball. The Mets’ Omir Santos went deep in the sixth for a solo shot and was 3 for 4 on the evening. Second baseman, Luis Castillo, was also 3 for 4 with an RBI. Francoeur and Wright added an RBI each, but it wasn’t enough to propel the Mets to a win. Coste’s creaming gave the Astros the lead for good despite a late threat by New York’s putrid offense in the eighth. With runners at the corners and two outs, LeTroy Hawkins got Castillo to pop out to left field. Jose Valverde tossed a hitless ninth to collect the save, his 11th of the year.
The Mets pounded out the hits Friday night but were unable to get the runs in. The lack of run production is a major problem, even in the low-scoring National League. Ten runners were stranded even though the Mets worked Astros hurlers to 160 pitches. The offense continues to regress, and their biggest hitter, Wright, has yet to reach double digits in homeruns. When Sheffield is the team leader in taters, the offensive struggles should be addressed. I am not sure how to fix the Mets. I do know their HR and front office needs to look in the mirror and realize they are embarrassing to fans and the league. The Phillies are the frontrunners as the World Series champions and are not slowing down to allow the Mets back into the playoff race. If Philadelphia lands Roy Halladay, the Mets can forget about making the playoffs for the next three seasons. The Mets are a mess and marred. They are in a public relations nightmare with Bernazard, yet the Wilpons are unwilling to fire the destroying VP. The owners feel the Mets are thriving in the minor leagues because of Bernazard. GM Omar Minaya is generally liked by the public but his team is unmatchable. Minaya’s diminishing power in the organization should concern fans because the Wilpons are clearly in control. As long as they call the shots, New York will be perceived as a laughable organization.
Twenty-two year old, Jon Niese, throws for the Mets tonight. Niese was 5-0 in his last seven starts in Buffalo. The Mets look to the youngster for a much-needed turnaround in the middle game of this series. He won’t completely clean up the mess, but should he provide a quality start, he will alleviate some of the stench.
Parting points: I am still flabbergasted by the Dwayne Wise catch Thursday night. He looked more like Dwayne Wade going up for a hook shot.
Song of the day- “Hero” by Mariah Carey
The grisliness that is the New York Mets reached epic proportions with Vice President, Tony Bernazard’s diatribe on the Binghamton Mets. Sources say the top executive took off his shirt and challenged the minor league players to a fight, while cursing out Met management. Bernazard reportedly also had a bout with closer, Francisco Rodriguez on the team bus returning from Atlanta last week. The ongoing investigation of Bernazard will continue and so will the plague of pathetic play as long as Jerry Manuel fields this team. New York is nothing more than a Triple A team in shambles. The offense is weakened due to injuries but the Mets cannot use that as an excuse for not hitting. They lack deep and dominant pitching and have precious little to trade before the July 31st baseball deadline. The Mets do not have a stacked minor league system and aside from a handful of serviceable relievers and Gary Sheffield, have nothing to offer opposing clubs. If Jose Reyes could stay on the field and prove himself in good health and a good attitude, the Mets would have a chip to offer. But Reyes is currently damaged goods and teams are not going to risk acquiring the All-star shortstop. Daniel Murphy is viable trade bait as well. However, the Mets cannot lose Murphy at first base despite his mediocre production. With Carlos Delgado’s return pending, the Mets either need to trade for a first baseman with a big bat or move David Wright to the other side of the infield. Then, the problem of filling the hot corner becomes number one on the agenda. The Mets are just not hitting and are leaving too many runners on base when they do reach safely. Manuel has seen his team shut out five times in July and nine times this season.
Last night, the team ace Johan Santana, endured one of his worst outings on a muggy Houston mound. Santana allowed 15 runners to reach base in six plus innings. He struck out just three Astros, and gave up a two-run homerun to opposing pitcher and former Amazin’ Mike Hampton. The veteran Hampton allowed four runs on eight hits in the 5-4 Houston victory. The southpaw fanned seven Mets and walked four over 5 2/3 impressive innings to pick up his sixth win. The Astros received crisp contributions from every batter in the lineup, and from the shining defense. Chris Coste provided the difference-making double with his two-run smack in the fifth. The Mets drew first blood with a Wright RBI single in the first inning. New Met, Jeff Francoeur and fill-in, Fernando Tatis thwarted the Mets opportunity with consecutive outs.
The Astros responded to the 1-0 New York lead in the bottom of the first. Kaz Matsui and Tejada stroked back-to-back singles with one out against Santana. Johan ended his 15 inning scoreless streak when Astros’ sluggler Carlos Lee delivered an RBI single. After a Jeff Keppinger double with two down in the fourth, Hampton gave himself a 3-1 margin with his 16th career long ball. The Mets’ Omir Santos went deep in the sixth for a solo shot and was 3 for 4 on the evening. Second baseman, Luis Castillo, was also 3 for 4 with an RBI. Francoeur and Wright added an RBI each, but it wasn’t enough to propel the Mets to a win. Coste’s creaming gave the Astros the lead for good despite a late threat by New York’s putrid offense in the eighth. With runners at the corners and two outs, LeTroy Hawkins got Castillo to pop out to left field. Jose Valverde tossed a hitless ninth to collect the save, his 11th of the year.
The Mets pounded out the hits Friday night but were unable to get the runs in. The lack of run production is a major problem, even in the low-scoring National League. Ten runners were stranded even though the Mets worked Astros hurlers to 160 pitches. The offense continues to regress, and their biggest hitter, Wright, has yet to reach double digits in homeruns. When Sheffield is the team leader in taters, the offensive struggles should be addressed. I am not sure how to fix the Mets. I do know their HR and front office needs to look in the mirror and realize they are embarrassing to fans and the league. The Phillies are the frontrunners as the World Series champions and are not slowing down to allow the Mets back into the playoff race. If Philadelphia lands Roy Halladay, the Mets can forget about making the playoffs for the next three seasons. The Mets are a mess and marred. They are in a public relations nightmare with Bernazard, yet the Wilpons are unwilling to fire the destroying VP. The owners feel the Mets are thriving in the minor leagues because of Bernazard. GM Omar Minaya is generally liked by the public but his team is unmatchable. Minaya’s diminishing power in the organization should concern fans because the Wilpons are clearly in control. As long as they call the shots, New York will be perceived as a laughable organization.
Twenty-two year old, Jon Niese, throws for the Mets tonight. Niese was 5-0 in his last seven starts in Buffalo. The Mets look to the youngster for a much-needed turnaround in the middle game of this series. He won’t completely clean up the mess, but should he provide a quality start, he will alleviate some of the stench.
Parting points: I am still flabbergasted by the Dwayne Wise catch Thursday night. He looked more like Dwayne Wade going up for a hook shot.
Song of the day- “Hero” by Mariah Carey
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Clandestine Clutch Cincinnati Crush
Cincinnati Reds reliever, Nick Masset, was brought in to face pinch-hitting outrageous outfielder, Manny Ramirez in the bottom of the L.A. sixth inning last night. Reds’ renowned starter, Bronson Arroyo, uncoiled and unraveled after 100 pitches and retired with the game tied at 2-2. Masset delivered his first pitch of the night and Manny affirmed his elite status as a clutch hitter by drilling a line-drive grand slam. It was Manny Ramirez bobblehead night Wednesday at Dodgers’ Stadium and the featured player produced.
The dramatic stammering smash was the 21st grand slam of Ramirez’s career. He is two behind baseball’s all-time leader in slams, Lou Gehrig.
Arroyo pitched 5 1/3 innings and allowed just five hits. He was charged with five runs, including the three base runners who Manny drove in with his pinch-hit bomb. James Loney and Matt Kemp drew walks for Los Angeles with one out in the game-changing sixth. Catcher, Russell Martin then slapped a single off Arroyo to load the bases for the home team. Manager, Joe Torre, chose to pinch hit for his starting mounds man, Chad Billingsley. Whom other than crowd favorite Dodger darling Manny Ramirez could give his team the lead? Manny has made many mystifying and majestic movement look easy. Wednesday night he starred again when he stepped to the plate without even taking batting practice before the contest. Manny nailed the first pitch he saw into the Mannywood section of the stadium and the crowd erupted. Ramirez was sidelined yesterday after being hit by a Homer Bailey pitch on his left hand Tuesday. It did not seem to affect his made-for-big-moment swing. Manny is a readymade player any day of the week, no matter how long he takes down time. He rises to the occasion in the biggest of baseball moments. Manny was beckoned with the bases juiced because he has the ability to be a game changer. He did what few others in his position could do with a tie score in a crucial situation. The stage was set for a momentum-changing Manny moment and sure enough, the outfielder walloped the 96 mph heater for an L.A. sweep of Cincinnati. It was the Dodgers’ fourth straight win.
Manny is slugging an even .300 with 8 RBIs and two homeruns in seven games. You cannot argue number 99’s production for a Dodgers team that refuses to lose in 2009. Even without his bat, L.A. admittedly did just fine. With Ramirez in Torre’s pesky lineup, the blue and white California club is that much better and harder to defeat. The Chavez Ravine faithful appreciate their hero for the hard slog he does. Baseball fans may dislike the fact Manny was pegged with a suspension for using performance enhancing drugs, but last night the man showed why his bat is still the deadliest clutch in the game. Ramirez is perhaps the best run producer the game has ever witnessed.
Billingsley lasted six frames for the Dodgers and was responsible for a pair of runs and seven hits. Los Angeles improved their season best mark to 27 games over .500. The storied franchise now holds a comfortable nine game lead in the NL West over Colorado. Dusty Baker’s Reds took the lead in the first inning by playing small ball. Leadoff hitter, Chris Dickerson, knocked a ground-rule double and Willy Taveras accomplished his goal of advancing the runner when he bunted Dickerson to third. Joey Votto, the Reds 2009 sensation, added to the early hit parade with a double down the right-field line. Andre Ethier stamped a shot to center off Arroyo for the first of L.A.’s runs, and his 20th long ball of the year. Loney blooped a ball past a sliding Laynce Nix in left field for a triple to sport the Dodgers a one run lead and another tally in the fourth. The Reds tied the score again in the top of the sixth. Votto’s third hit of the night was followed by two Billingsley strikeouts, but the Reds took advantage of a wild pitch with Edwin Encarnacion at the plate. Encarnacion proceeded to strike out to end any further Cincinnati threats. Then the thrill began, with Ramirez’s productive pounding and a plethora of applause. The Dodgers would not be run-impoverished this night. Manny’s submerged the ball into the stands for a statement slam.
Parting points: Song of the day- “End of the Road”- Boyz II Men
The dramatic stammering smash was the 21st grand slam of Ramirez’s career. He is two behind baseball’s all-time leader in slams, Lou Gehrig.
Arroyo pitched 5 1/3 innings and allowed just five hits. He was charged with five runs, including the three base runners who Manny drove in with his pinch-hit bomb. James Loney and Matt Kemp drew walks for Los Angeles with one out in the game-changing sixth. Catcher, Russell Martin then slapped a single off Arroyo to load the bases for the home team. Manager, Joe Torre, chose to pinch hit for his starting mounds man, Chad Billingsley. Whom other than crowd favorite Dodger darling Manny Ramirez could give his team the lead? Manny has made many mystifying and majestic movement look easy. Wednesday night he starred again when he stepped to the plate without even taking batting practice before the contest. Manny nailed the first pitch he saw into the Mannywood section of the stadium and the crowd erupted. Ramirez was sidelined yesterday after being hit by a Homer Bailey pitch on his left hand Tuesday. It did not seem to affect his made-for-big-moment swing. Manny is a readymade player any day of the week, no matter how long he takes down time. He rises to the occasion in the biggest of baseball moments. Manny was beckoned with the bases juiced because he has the ability to be a game changer. He did what few others in his position could do with a tie score in a crucial situation. The stage was set for a momentum-changing Manny moment and sure enough, the outfielder walloped the 96 mph heater for an L.A. sweep of Cincinnati. It was the Dodgers’ fourth straight win.
Manny is slugging an even .300 with 8 RBIs and two homeruns in seven games. You cannot argue number 99’s production for a Dodgers team that refuses to lose in 2009. Even without his bat, L.A. admittedly did just fine. With Ramirez in Torre’s pesky lineup, the blue and white California club is that much better and harder to defeat. The Chavez Ravine faithful appreciate their hero for the hard slog he does. Baseball fans may dislike the fact Manny was pegged with a suspension for using performance enhancing drugs, but last night the man showed why his bat is still the deadliest clutch in the game. Ramirez is perhaps the best run producer the game has ever witnessed.
Billingsley lasted six frames for the Dodgers and was responsible for a pair of runs and seven hits. Los Angeles improved their season best mark to 27 games over .500. The storied franchise now holds a comfortable nine game lead in the NL West over Colorado. Dusty Baker’s Reds took the lead in the first inning by playing small ball. Leadoff hitter, Chris Dickerson, knocked a ground-rule double and Willy Taveras accomplished his goal of advancing the runner when he bunted Dickerson to third. Joey Votto, the Reds 2009 sensation, added to the early hit parade with a double down the right-field line. Andre Ethier stamped a shot to center off Arroyo for the first of L.A.’s runs, and his 20th long ball of the year. Loney blooped a ball past a sliding Laynce Nix in left field for a triple to sport the Dodgers a one run lead and another tally in the fourth. The Reds tied the score again in the top of the sixth. Votto’s third hit of the night was followed by two Billingsley strikeouts, but the Reds took advantage of a wild pitch with Edwin Encarnacion at the plate. Encarnacion proceeded to strike out to end any further Cincinnati threats. Then the thrill began, with Ramirez’s productive pounding and a plethora of applause. The Dodgers would not be run-impoverished this night. Manny’s submerged the ball into the stands for a statement slam.
Parting points: Song of the day- “End of the Road”- Boyz II Men
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Coliseum Comeback
The Minnesota Twins always seem to gravitate towards games with crazy twists and turns of the comeback variety. Last night was no different at Oakland’s Coliseum as the hometown Athletics completed an improbably come-from-behind, business-like 14-13 victory. Oakland rallied to beat Minnesota from 10 runs down to cap off the franchise’s second greatest comeback in history.
Minnesota’s Michael Cuddyer was thrown out at the plate trying to score on a wild pitch thrown by Michael Wuertz in the top of the 9th inning. A’s catcher, Kurt Suzuki, tossed to Wuertz covering the plate. The reliever tagged Cuddyer after the Twins’ right fielder appeared to slide safely into home. Home plate umpire Mike Muchlinski called Cuddyer out to end the elaborate game.
The memorable Monday night mauling featured an atrocious outing from Oakland starter, Gio Gonzalez. Gonzalez exited to a chorus of boos after allowing 11 runs in just 2 2/3 innings on the mound. The early onslaught was highlighted by Justin Morneau pounding a 3-2 fastball for a grand slam in the second inning. Cuddyer followed with a solo shot off the fidgety flamethrower to make it an 8-2 Minnesota lead. Gonzalez served up four homeruns before his abysmal 89 pitching evening was over. Morneau;s double dipped in the third inning for a three run blast that spelled the end of Gonzalez. Designated hitter, Jason Kubel, clubbed the first long ball by either team during the slugfest when he connected for his 16th homer of the year in the opening frame. The grand slam by Morneau was the All-star’s second of the season on his career-high seven RBI night.
Minnesota couldn’t hold a 12-2 lead despite being handed the gift from the home team. They were spared the biggest collapse ever by a Twins team, but did manage to match the mark set on September 28, 1984 when they blew a 10 run lead to the Cleveland Indians.
Matt Holliday, the A’s .284 hitting left fielder, jacked a pair of homeruns, including his fourth career slam off Bobby Keppel. Holliday also socked two doubles and drove in six runs. One pitch after Holliday’s grand slam, Jack Cust came to the plate and greeted Minnesota’s Jose Mijares with a solo long ball. Cust’s crush completed Oakland’s comeback, providing the A’s with the 14-13 lead they would need to win the game.
Nick Blackburn was staked a secure enough advantage but left after five innings, surrendering 13 hits. The Twins allowed their most hits and runs of 2009 when Oakland rallied for seven tallies off three relievers in the 7th inning. Oakland’s season high 22 hits and 14 runs came on an evening that saw Craig Breslow pick up the win and Wuertz his third save in four chances.
Adam Kennedy, the A’s third base leadoff man, batted six times. He had three hits and a stolen base, but did not collect an RBI. It mattered little, as the heart of Oakland’s order feasted on the Twins’ bullpen. Orlando Cabrera, Scott Hairson, Holliday and Cust combined for 12 hits and 11 RBIs. Mark Ellis blooped a shot to the outfield after fouling off a catchable pop fly misplayed by Minnesota. Cabrera followed with an integral base hit that nipped the inside of the first baseline and scooted into foul territory.
Cuddyer and Twins manager, Ron Gardenhire, argued the final call at the plate. They were probably stunned by the finale, but weren’t so surprised by Oakland pitching. They had the A’s staff figured out. The team scattered 17 hits off a staff (not including Brett Anderson) that has gone 0-6 with a 9.53 ERA since July 6th. The middle of Minnesota’s lineup went 10-for13 and accounted for all the Twins’ homeruns and 12 of the 13 RBIs.
I can’t wait for the next game between these teams.
Parting points: The Yankees are tied for first place again. Hopefully, it will last a little longer than last time.
Minnesota’s Michael Cuddyer was thrown out at the plate trying to score on a wild pitch thrown by Michael Wuertz in the top of the 9th inning. A’s catcher, Kurt Suzuki, tossed to Wuertz covering the plate. The reliever tagged Cuddyer after the Twins’ right fielder appeared to slide safely into home. Home plate umpire Mike Muchlinski called Cuddyer out to end the elaborate game.
The memorable Monday night mauling featured an atrocious outing from Oakland starter, Gio Gonzalez. Gonzalez exited to a chorus of boos after allowing 11 runs in just 2 2/3 innings on the mound. The early onslaught was highlighted by Justin Morneau pounding a 3-2 fastball for a grand slam in the second inning. Cuddyer followed with a solo shot off the fidgety flamethrower to make it an 8-2 Minnesota lead. Gonzalez served up four homeruns before his abysmal 89 pitching evening was over. Morneau;s double dipped in the third inning for a three run blast that spelled the end of Gonzalez. Designated hitter, Jason Kubel, clubbed the first long ball by either team during the slugfest when he connected for his 16th homer of the year in the opening frame. The grand slam by Morneau was the All-star’s second of the season on his career-high seven RBI night.
Minnesota couldn’t hold a 12-2 lead despite being handed the gift from the home team. They were spared the biggest collapse ever by a Twins team, but did manage to match the mark set on September 28, 1984 when they blew a 10 run lead to the Cleveland Indians.
Matt Holliday, the A’s .284 hitting left fielder, jacked a pair of homeruns, including his fourth career slam off Bobby Keppel. Holliday also socked two doubles and drove in six runs. One pitch after Holliday’s grand slam, Jack Cust came to the plate and greeted Minnesota’s Jose Mijares with a solo long ball. Cust’s crush completed Oakland’s comeback, providing the A’s with the 14-13 lead they would need to win the game.
Nick Blackburn was staked a secure enough advantage but left after five innings, surrendering 13 hits. The Twins allowed their most hits and runs of 2009 when Oakland rallied for seven tallies off three relievers in the 7th inning. Oakland’s season high 22 hits and 14 runs came on an evening that saw Craig Breslow pick up the win and Wuertz his third save in four chances.
Adam Kennedy, the A’s third base leadoff man, batted six times. He had three hits and a stolen base, but did not collect an RBI. It mattered little, as the heart of Oakland’s order feasted on the Twins’ bullpen. Orlando Cabrera, Scott Hairson, Holliday and Cust combined for 12 hits and 11 RBIs. Mark Ellis blooped a shot to the outfield after fouling off a catchable pop fly misplayed by Minnesota. Cabrera followed with an integral base hit that nipped the inside of the first baseline and scooted into foul territory.
Cuddyer and Twins manager, Ron Gardenhire, argued the final call at the plate. They were probably stunned by the finale, but weren’t so surprised by Oakland pitching. They had the A’s staff figured out. The team scattered 17 hits off a staff (not including Brett Anderson) that has gone 0-6 with a 9.53 ERA since July 6th. The middle of Minnesota’s lineup went 10-for13 and accounted for all the Twins’ homeruns and 12 of the 13 RBIs.
I can’t wait for the next game between these teams.
Parting points: The Yankees are tied for first place again. Hopefully, it will last a little longer than last time.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Hall Headliners
My favorite football player of all time, Troy Aikman, was among those enshrined in South Bend, Indiana’s College Football Hall of Fame class yesterday. The evening ceremony honored 21 college football greats, including former legendary Notre Dame coach, Lou Holtz and Ohio State success, John Cooper.
Holtz is a fascinating character in my opinion. I read his autobiography last year and learned a lot about the man who led the Fighting Irish to their last national title in 1988. Holtz was successful at five other colleges, but his achievements at Notre Dame are his most notable. He began at William and Mary college and then spent three years leading N.C. State. He took over a struggling Arkansas program before accepting an offer to coach in the Big 10 at Minnesota. I remember reading how Holtz hesitated to move from warm weather to the coldest of cold winters in Minnesota. Lou survived one year as the Gophers’ instructor before taking the big time job at prestigious Notre Dame. After a decade of helping the Fighting Irish become a renowned football team, he left for the South Carolina Gamecocks position.
Cooper is a character in his own right, but nothing compared to the man he was an assistant under at Ohio State, Woody Hayes. Cooper coached the Buckeyes from 1988 through 2000 before Jim Tressel took over. He started his coaching career in Tulsa and moved on to Arizona State before leading the Big Ten’s Buckeyes to the Rose Bowl. Cooper is the first Hall-of-Fame coach to lead both a Big Ten and a Pac-10 team to the Rose Bowl. Cooper was blessed with great players during his coaching days and many Ohio State fans still knock his efforts behind the headset. I did not begin following the Buckeyes until the final two years of Cooper’s tenure there. I do remember him though, and I think the reason fans dislike him is because he never did beat Michigan.
Troy Aikman quarterbacked the UCLA Bruins before becoming the number draft pick in 1989 with the Dallas Cowboys. Prior to his two seasons in California, Aikman played for the Oklahoma Sooners in the Big 12. One of the best college players ever, Aikman is well-deserving of the hall honor. His former Cowboys teammate, Jay Novacek, was also inducted Saturday night. Novacek was a talented tight end even before the Superball-winning Cowboys made him famous. He was a smashing success from 1982-1984 at Wyoming.
The Buffalo Bills’ tailback and Hall of Famer, Thurman Thomas, was part of the 21 players on the College Hall’s list also. Thomas still holds the record for career rushing yards with 4,595 at Oklahoma State. The former thumping and cruiser as a Cowboy claimed triumph when he went to four straight SuperBowls with Buffalo. Former Army quarterback, Arnold Tucker and Syracuse signal-caller, Don McPherson, were also honored. McPherson was the 1987 Heisman Trophy runner-up and Tucker, who played in the 1940’s, was the oldest inductee. Tucker went undefeated at Army with a 27-0-1 record from 1944-1946.
Two Bayou State talents were part of the ceremonies. LSU tailback and defensive back, Billy Cannon, and Louisiana Tech’s Fred Dean, were enshrined in history. Cannon was elected in 1983, and 26 years later, was selected to join the Hall. Cannon played in the national championship game of 1958 and won the Heisman a year later, but was arrested for federal counterfeiting charges in 1983. Pat Fitzgerald, Sam Mills and Wilbur Marshall highlight the linebackers selected for the 2009 class. Roger Brown, Jim Dombrowski, Rueben Mayes, Randall McDaniel, Dave Parks, Ron Simmons, and Rod Smith round out the players list. Former Marshall and Georgia head coach, Jim Donnan and Missouri Valley’s Volney Ashford complete the list of coaches.
Parting points: Song of the day- R.E.M.’s “Bad Day”
Today is Old Timer’s Day at the stadium. Can’t wait to see Mike Mussina!
Holtz is a fascinating character in my opinion. I read his autobiography last year and learned a lot about the man who led the Fighting Irish to their last national title in 1988. Holtz was successful at five other colleges, but his achievements at Notre Dame are his most notable. He began at William and Mary college and then spent three years leading N.C. State. He took over a struggling Arkansas program before accepting an offer to coach in the Big 10 at Minnesota. I remember reading how Holtz hesitated to move from warm weather to the coldest of cold winters in Minnesota. Lou survived one year as the Gophers’ instructor before taking the big time job at prestigious Notre Dame. After a decade of helping the Fighting Irish become a renowned football team, he left for the South Carolina Gamecocks position.
Cooper is a character in his own right, but nothing compared to the man he was an assistant under at Ohio State, Woody Hayes. Cooper coached the Buckeyes from 1988 through 2000 before Jim Tressel took over. He started his coaching career in Tulsa and moved on to Arizona State before leading the Big Ten’s Buckeyes to the Rose Bowl. Cooper is the first Hall-of-Fame coach to lead both a Big Ten and a Pac-10 team to the Rose Bowl. Cooper was blessed with great players during his coaching days and many Ohio State fans still knock his efforts behind the headset. I did not begin following the Buckeyes until the final two years of Cooper’s tenure there. I do remember him though, and I think the reason fans dislike him is because he never did beat Michigan.
Troy Aikman quarterbacked the UCLA Bruins before becoming the number draft pick in 1989 with the Dallas Cowboys. Prior to his two seasons in California, Aikman played for the Oklahoma Sooners in the Big 12. One of the best college players ever, Aikman is well-deserving of the hall honor. His former Cowboys teammate, Jay Novacek, was also inducted Saturday night. Novacek was a talented tight end even before the Superball-winning Cowboys made him famous. He was a smashing success from 1982-1984 at Wyoming.
The Buffalo Bills’ tailback and Hall of Famer, Thurman Thomas, was part of the 21 players on the College Hall’s list also. Thomas still holds the record for career rushing yards with 4,595 at Oklahoma State. The former thumping and cruiser as a Cowboy claimed triumph when he went to four straight SuperBowls with Buffalo. Former Army quarterback, Arnold Tucker and Syracuse signal-caller, Don McPherson, were also honored. McPherson was the 1987 Heisman Trophy runner-up and Tucker, who played in the 1940’s, was the oldest inductee. Tucker went undefeated at Army with a 27-0-1 record from 1944-1946.
Two Bayou State talents were part of the ceremonies. LSU tailback and defensive back, Billy Cannon, and Louisiana Tech’s Fred Dean, were enshrined in history. Cannon was elected in 1983, and 26 years later, was selected to join the Hall. Cannon played in the national championship game of 1958 and won the Heisman a year later, but was arrested for federal counterfeiting charges in 1983. Pat Fitzgerald, Sam Mills and Wilbur Marshall highlight the linebackers selected for the 2009 class. Roger Brown, Jim Dombrowski, Rueben Mayes, Randall McDaniel, Dave Parks, Ron Simmons, and Rod Smith round out the players list. Former Marshall and Georgia head coach, Jim Donnan and Missouri Valley’s Volney Ashford complete the list of coaches.
Parting points: Song of the day- R.E.M.’s “Bad Day”
Today is Old Timer’s Day at the stadium. Can’t wait to see Mike Mussina!
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Teixeira Tater Tops Tigers
Should the Yankees remain fiscally responsible and not pursue Roy Halladay hard this summer, they will need performances like the one from Mark Teixeira Friday. On a night starter, A.J. Burnett, came out throwing flat, the All-star first baseman rescued New York by turning on a heater from Detroit’s injured flamethrower, Joel Zumaya.
The Yankees started the second half of the season and a 10 game homestand on the right foot after going into the All-star break losers of three straight. New York made a winner out of Phil Hughes, who pitched two scoreless innings of relief. The Yankees are not known for lighting up pitchers they have never faced before, especially left-handers. That was the case Friday when the Tigers countered Burnett with rookie hurler, Luke French.
The turbulent tossing Burnett fell behind on most Tigers hitters during the first two innings. The Tigers scored in the top of the first and the Yankees evened the contest in their half of the frame. Hideki Matsui singled to right field off French to score Johnny Damon. The AL Central leaders recanted the lead in the second on a run-scoring single by Placido Palanco. All-star outfielder, Curtis Granderson’s homerun made it 3-1 Detroit in the fifth inning. It was Granderson’s 19th long ball of the year. The Tigers committed two errors in the bottom of the fifth and it resulted in the beginning of New York’s 26th come from behind victory of the year.
Left-fielder for Detroit, Josh Anderson, allowed a Teixeira torch to skip under his glove. Damon scored on the play for his second time of the evening. Zumaya entered in the seventh inning but was not much of an effective reliever for the cats. He allowed a leadoff single by the Yankees captain, Derek Jeter, and a Damon double before the big bomb by Teixeira. Damon’s double glanced off Clete Thomas’ glove as the outfielder made a leap toward the wall. Mark then raked a 3-1 offering from the cagey Zumaya into the second deck in right field for his 22nd of the year and a 5-3 Yankee lead. You knew the ball was out of the park as soon as it left Tex’s bat. Mark has such a structured approach at the plate and it doesn’t matter how hard a pitcher throws at him. He can club the fastest fastball as long as it’s in his zone. Teixeira went 3-for-5 at the plate for the night. Zumaya will undergo an MRI this afternoon after exiting the game with serious arm pain. The runs recounted off Zumaya were the first delivered by New York ever.
Hughes bounced into action to bail out Burnett and punched out six Tigers in two innings with his 97 mph fastball on the mark. He scattered just three hits and has now pitched 15 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings in his last 12 relief stints. Hughes lowered his ERA from 5.45 to 3.76 since joining the Yankees bullpen and switching from the starter role. Hughes has a 4-2 record. The shaky Burnett, who had not started since July 8th, was wild and only struck out one Tiger. Burnett gave up three Tiger tallies and six hits over six innings and 104 pitches. His pitch count continues to escalate but his production does not seem to improve. Mariano Rivera planted the seed by picking up his 24th save after a near hour rain delay in the bottom of the eighth. Rivera allowed a two-out double by Polanco and nothing else. The Yankees improved to 6-15 against division-leading teams this season. Detroit has lost three of four against New York this year, including the first at the new Yankee Stadium Friday night.
Parting points: Happy Birthday to Joe Torre.
The Yankees started the second half of the season and a 10 game homestand on the right foot after going into the All-star break losers of three straight. New York made a winner out of Phil Hughes, who pitched two scoreless innings of relief. The Yankees are not known for lighting up pitchers they have never faced before, especially left-handers. That was the case Friday when the Tigers countered Burnett with rookie hurler, Luke French.
The turbulent tossing Burnett fell behind on most Tigers hitters during the first two innings. The Tigers scored in the top of the first and the Yankees evened the contest in their half of the frame. Hideki Matsui singled to right field off French to score Johnny Damon. The AL Central leaders recanted the lead in the second on a run-scoring single by Placido Palanco. All-star outfielder, Curtis Granderson’s homerun made it 3-1 Detroit in the fifth inning. It was Granderson’s 19th long ball of the year. The Tigers committed two errors in the bottom of the fifth and it resulted in the beginning of New York’s 26th come from behind victory of the year.
Left-fielder for Detroit, Josh Anderson, allowed a Teixeira torch to skip under his glove. Damon scored on the play for his second time of the evening. Zumaya entered in the seventh inning but was not much of an effective reliever for the cats. He allowed a leadoff single by the Yankees captain, Derek Jeter, and a Damon double before the big bomb by Teixeira. Damon’s double glanced off Clete Thomas’ glove as the outfielder made a leap toward the wall. Mark then raked a 3-1 offering from the cagey Zumaya into the second deck in right field for his 22nd of the year and a 5-3 Yankee lead. You knew the ball was out of the park as soon as it left Tex’s bat. Mark has such a structured approach at the plate and it doesn’t matter how hard a pitcher throws at him. He can club the fastest fastball as long as it’s in his zone. Teixeira went 3-for-5 at the plate for the night. Zumaya will undergo an MRI this afternoon after exiting the game with serious arm pain. The runs recounted off Zumaya were the first delivered by New York ever.
Hughes bounced into action to bail out Burnett and punched out six Tigers in two innings with his 97 mph fastball on the mark. He scattered just three hits and has now pitched 15 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings in his last 12 relief stints. Hughes lowered his ERA from 5.45 to 3.76 since joining the Yankees bullpen and switching from the starter role. Hughes has a 4-2 record. The shaky Burnett, who had not started since July 8th, was wild and only struck out one Tiger. Burnett gave up three Tiger tallies and six hits over six innings and 104 pitches. His pitch count continues to escalate but his production does not seem to improve. Mariano Rivera planted the seed by picking up his 24th save after a near hour rain delay in the bottom of the eighth. Rivera allowed a two-out double by Polanco and nothing else. The Yankees improved to 6-15 against division-leading teams this season. Detroit has lost three of four against New York this year, including the first at the new Yankee Stadium Friday night.
Parting points: Happy Birthday to Joe Torre.
Reporter Recount
Absorbed by the chalk-white laces of the brown bound ball
She saw the seductive spiral swirl salaciously through the sensational space
The roaring crowd reverberated remotely as the ricocheting pass made its fall
The limber receiver leaped with litheness at a launching pace
One fleeting grab guaranteed a gleeful response from the content, captured crowd
The audience approved the adjacent action and applauded the athletic acumen
Whistles and laughter lingered long after, heard high up by a hallmark cheer so loud
The season’s tug-of-war springing into sight by the stunning but stylish win
She saw the seductive spiral swirl salaciously through the sensational space
The roaring crowd reverberated remotely as the ricocheting pass made its fall
The limber receiver leaped with litheness at a launching pace
One fleeting grab guaranteed a gleeful response from the content, captured crowd
The audience approved the adjacent action and applauded the athletic acumen
Whistles and laughter lingered long after, heard high up by a hallmark cheer so loud
The season’s tug-of-war springing into sight by the stunning but stylish win
Friday, July 17, 2009
Seminole Scoop
Bobby Bowden begins his 34th year as the Florida State Seminoles head coach with a loaded, well-put-together 2009-10 football team. The ‘Noles kick off the season at home September 7th against Sunshine State rival, Miami. Off the field issues, ranging from Bowden’s future, player arrests, scandals and suspensions have absorbed the most of the NCAA’s alluring, authoritative ACC university. The Seminoles have some areas of concern on the field, but mostly are looking for a turnaround season and return to the top form of the glory years.
FSU will plug away on the gridiron when camp breaks in August without wide receivers Corey Surrency and Greg Carr. Safety, Myron Rolle, the Rhodes Scholar winner a year ago, will also be missing in action. Lou Groza recipient and versatile special teams standout, Graham Gano, also exited after 2008 concluded. Bowden’s boys still have a capable crop of upperclassmen with speed, skills and emerging talent all around. Junior quarterback, Christian Ponder, and center, Ryan McMahon, return at the line of scrimmage to call plays for FSU. Seniors, DeKoda Watson and Patrick Robinson lead the line backing and secondary, respectfully, and left guard, junior Rodney Hudson, anchors the team as perhaps the best returning Seminole.
The ‘Noles have enough pieces to take the Atlantic for the first time in four seasons. Bowden has been absent from the championship during that quartet of years but brings 309 wins back, along with high expectations, when the team begins play in September. The FSU offensive line represents a reap of young but manageable players. Last year the ‘Noles survived and thrived in a tough conference, hanging in contention until the final weeks. Tackles, Andrew Datko and Zebrie Sanders are a year older and should help to improve Florida State’s 9-4 2008 record. Despite being the youngest offensive line in football, Rick Trickett’s athletic receivers can pick apart defensive and the slack when the production plummets. Preston Parker, Taiwan Easterling and Jarmon Furston are Ponder’s preferred targets at the receiving position. Senior tight end, Caz Piurowski, can also catch passes for an FSU team that was 8th in the category last year. One area the ‘Noles did excel in 2008 was in the backfield. They were second in the ACC in running the ball, but main carrier, Antone Smith, departed. His replacement could come in the way of viable backs, Jermaine Thomas, Marcus Sims or Furston.
Visibly, the defense in Tallahassee erupts with efficiency, terrific speed and a balanced pass rush. It’s no secret the defense will be a vital component in the reputable offensive college game. Markus White and Kevin McNeil replace Everette Brown and Neefy Moffett at the tackle spots. Both will need to emerge with excellent efforts to carve out something similar to the 19 sacks and 33 tackles produced by the exited ‘Noles. Watson at linebacker is a force and one of the most explosive players on Bowden’s 2009 roster. His blazing quickness combined with a natural power makes him the team’s top dog and defensive playmakers. Watson imposes his will as a rusher and run defender, and will be a key man during the four road game stretch Florida State faces in late October/early November.
FSU is a good second quarter team, or at least that was the case a year ago. Finishing strong is a valuable asset but Bowden must stress and emphasize getting off to a fast start. The secondary defensive backs demonstrate depth and one area the team should improve is on turnovers. The safety slot vacated by Rolle is one hole Bowden must look to fill effectively. Defensive coordinator, Mickey Andrews, seems to have some outdated schemes but a good understanding of how to pressure the quarterback. The team did struggle with stopping opponents from running the ball last year. It becomes a necessary goal to change that in 2009. If FSU creates some early momentum and can vilify their adversaries, they shouldn’t teeter out or be an overlooked omission in the ACC.
Parting points: The week is finally over!
FSU will plug away on the gridiron when camp breaks in August without wide receivers Corey Surrency and Greg Carr. Safety, Myron Rolle, the Rhodes Scholar winner a year ago, will also be missing in action. Lou Groza recipient and versatile special teams standout, Graham Gano, also exited after 2008 concluded. Bowden’s boys still have a capable crop of upperclassmen with speed, skills and emerging talent all around. Junior quarterback, Christian Ponder, and center, Ryan McMahon, return at the line of scrimmage to call plays for FSU. Seniors, DeKoda Watson and Patrick Robinson lead the line backing and secondary, respectfully, and left guard, junior Rodney Hudson, anchors the team as perhaps the best returning Seminole.
The ‘Noles have enough pieces to take the Atlantic for the first time in four seasons. Bowden has been absent from the championship during that quartet of years but brings 309 wins back, along with high expectations, when the team begins play in September. The FSU offensive line represents a reap of young but manageable players. Last year the ‘Noles survived and thrived in a tough conference, hanging in contention until the final weeks. Tackles, Andrew Datko and Zebrie Sanders are a year older and should help to improve Florida State’s 9-4 2008 record. Despite being the youngest offensive line in football, Rick Trickett’s athletic receivers can pick apart defensive and the slack when the production plummets. Preston Parker, Taiwan Easterling and Jarmon Furston are Ponder’s preferred targets at the receiving position. Senior tight end, Caz Piurowski, can also catch passes for an FSU team that was 8th in the category last year. One area the ‘Noles did excel in 2008 was in the backfield. They were second in the ACC in running the ball, but main carrier, Antone Smith, departed. His replacement could come in the way of viable backs, Jermaine Thomas, Marcus Sims or Furston.
Visibly, the defense in Tallahassee erupts with efficiency, terrific speed and a balanced pass rush. It’s no secret the defense will be a vital component in the reputable offensive college game. Markus White and Kevin McNeil replace Everette Brown and Neefy Moffett at the tackle spots. Both will need to emerge with excellent efforts to carve out something similar to the 19 sacks and 33 tackles produced by the exited ‘Noles. Watson at linebacker is a force and one of the most explosive players on Bowden’s 2009 roster. His blazing quickness combined with a natural power makes him the team’s top dog and defensive playmakers. Watson imposes his will as a rusher and run defender, and will be a key man during the four road game stretch Florida State faces in late October/early November.
FSU is a good second quarter team, or at least that was the case a year ago. Finishing strong is a valuable asset but Bowden must stress and emphasize getting off to a fast start. The secondary defensive backs demonstrate depth and one area the team should improve is on turnovers. The safety slot vacated by Rolle is one hole Bowden must look to fill effectively. Defensive coordinator, Mickey Andrews, seems to have some outdated schemes but a good understanding of how to pressure the quarterback. The team did struggle with stopping opponents from running the ball last year. It becomes a necessary goal to change that in 2009. If FSU creates some early momentum and can vilify their adversaries, they shouldn’t teeter out or be an overlooked omission in the ACC.
Parting points: The week is finally over!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
AL All-Stars
Another All-Star game down, another American League domination. The AL ruled baseball’s annual grand stage on St. Louis Tuesday night to claim home field advantage in the 2009 World Series. The junior league controlled the senior circuit in a 4-3 victory. They came from behind for the fourth straight year to slip past the NL for the win.
Carl Crawford provided the highlight catch and was rewarded the game’s MVP. The Rays’ speedy and talented outfielder pulled back a homerun with a leaping grab in the 7th inning. The ball was jacked to deep left-center by the leadoff hitter, Brad Hawpe of the Rockies. Crawford raced to meet the ball and picturesquely picked it off the wall to preserve a 3-3 tie.
The American League jumped to a 2-0 lead early in the first inning off San Francisco starter, Tim Lincecum. The first six batters Lincecum faced reached base safely. Seattle’s Ichiro Suzuki singled and New York’s Derek Jeter was hit by an inside high heater. Minnesota Twins slugger, Joe Mauer, reached on a fielder’s choice before NL first baseman and hometown crowd favorite, Albert Pujols, committed an error on a Mark Teixeira’s groundball. Jeter scored on the miscue for the first run of the hyped event. Mauer scored two batters later with Josh Hamilton earning an RBI.
Roy Halladay was the slated starter for the American League. Halladay was roughed up in the second by the NL lineup. It would be the National League’s only scoring on the night. Yadier Molina of the Cardinals singled on a two out Halladay offering to score the Mets’ David Wright. Philadelphia’s Shane Victorino also scored when Hamilton overthrew his teammate from Texas, Michael Young, at third base. The ball slided off Victorino and skidded near the third base dugout. Homerun derby winner, Prince Fielder, represented the Brewers only RBI in the All-Star game. Fielder delivered a double to give the NL a 3-2 advantage before the NL bats were silenced. Hanley Ramirez grounded out to end the inning and the AL pitchers went on to retire 18 consecutive batters. Adrian Gonzalez drew a two out walk in the eighth to finally give the NL a base runner. The red-clad Cardinals fans watched Pujols go 0 for 3 at the dish on his shining night. The first baseman who wears number five did make a pair of impressive defensive plays to rob Jeter and Teixeira of hits. It was the first time since 1966 the game was played in St. Louis.
Mauer tied the game in the fifth inning off the Dodgers’ Chad Billingsley. He clubbed a two out double to notch the game at three. American League relievers combining for 1-2-3 innings each included Mark Buehrle, Zack Greinke, Edwin Jackson, Felix Hernandez, and Jonathan Papelbon. Papelbon was credited with the win and the Yankees’ Mariano Rivera the save. Rivera pitched a perfect ninth for his fifth All-Star game save.
First time All-Star, Curtis Granderson, socked the go-ahead and eventual game-winning triple in the top of the eighth off of Heath Bell. Justin Upton, Arizona’s outfielder playing out of position in left, had a hard time playing the ball off the carom. Granderson was able to leg out a three bagger because Upton was stalled. After Boston’s Kevin Youkilis was intentionally walked, the Orioles’ Adam Jones scored Granderson with his timely sacrifice fly. Tuesday was Jones’ first All-Star appearance.
It was the same old story for the NL. The league without a designated hitter can’t seem to overcome the All-Star drought that has plagued them since 1996. The AL has now has a 40-38-2 record against their counterparts.
Parting points: Song of the day- “Everyday is a Winding Road”- Sheryl Crow
Happy Birthday to Brian Austin Green.
Carl Crawford provided the highlight catch and was rewarded the game’s MVP. The Rays’ speedy and talented outfielder pulled back a homerun with a leaping grab in the 7th inning. The ball was jacked to deep left-center by the leadoff hitter, Brad Hawpe of the Rockies. Crawford raced to meet the ball and picturesquely picked it off the wall to preserve a 3-3 tie.
The American League jumped to a 2-0 lead early in the first inning off San Francisco starter, Tim Lincecum. The first six batters Lincecum faced reached base safely. Seattle’s Ichiro Suzuki singled and New York’s Derek Jeter was hit by an inside high heater. Minnesota Twins slugger, Joe Mauer, reached on a fielder’s choice before NL first baseman and hometown crowd favorite, Albert Pujols, committed an error on a Mark Teixeira’s groundball. Jeter scored on the miscue for the first run of the hyped event. Mauer scored two batters later with Josh Hamilton earning an RBI.
Roy Halladay was the slated starter for the American League. Halladay was roughed up in the second by the NL lineup. It would be the National League’s only scoring on the night. Yadier Molina of the Cardinals singled on a two out Halladay offering to score the Mets’ David Wright. Philadelphia’s Shane Victorino also scored when Hamilton overthrew his teammate from Texas, Michael Young, at third base. The ball slided off Victorino and skidded near the third base dugout. Homerun derby winner, Prince Fielder, represented the Brewers only RBI in the All-Star game. Fielder delivered a double to give the NL a 3-2 advantage before the NL bats were silenced. Hanley Ramirez grounded out to end the inning and the AL pitchers went on to retire 18 consecutive batters. Adrian Gonzalez drew a two out walk in the eighth to finally give the NL a base runner. The red-clad Cardinals fans watched Pujols go 0 for 3 at the dish on his shining night. The first baseman who wears number five did make a pair of impressive defensive plays to rob Jeter and Teixeira of hits. It was the first time since 1966 the game was played in St. Louis.
Mauer tied the game in the fifth inning off the Dodgers’ Chad Billingsley. He clubbed a two out double to notch the game at three. American League relievers combining for 1-2-3 innings each included Mark Buehrle, Zack Greinke, Edwin Jackson, Felix Hernandez, and Jonathan Papelbon. Papelbon was credited with the win and the Yankees’ Mariano Rivera the save. Rivera pitched a perfect ninth for his fifth All-Star game save.
First time All-Star, Curtis Granderson, socked the go-ahead and eventual game-winning triple in the top of the eighth off of Heath Bell. Justin Upton, Arizona’s outfielder playing out of position in left, had a hard time playing the ball off the carom. Granderson was able to leg out a three bagger because Upton was stalled. After Boston’s Kevin Youkilis was intentionally walked, the Orioles’ Adam Jones scored Granderson with his timely sacrifice fly. Tuesday was Jones’ first All-Star appearance.
It was the same old story for the NL. The league without a designated hitter can’t seem to overcome the All-Star drought that has plagued them since 1996. The AL has now has a 40-38-2 record against their counterparts.
Parting points: Song of the day- “Everyday is a Winding Road”- Sheryl Crow
Happy Birthday to Brian Austin Green.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Second Stint
The New Jersey Devils announced their new head coach yesterday. Former Devils Stanley Cup-winning coach, Jacques Lemaire, returns to New Jersey after Brent Sutter resigned his position over a month ago. Lemaire takes over for a team that has suffered two straight first-round playoff disappointments and hasn’t won a championship in six seasons. The Devils are looking for a chance to rekindle and reawaken the team with the coach who led them to their first NHL title. Lemaire left the Devils in 1998 with a 199-122-57 record.
Lemaire anchored the 1995 New Jersey Devils to the Stanley Cup and the 63 year old coached the team through five seasons. He recently resigned as the Minnesota Wild head coach after being with the team since their expansion inception in 2000. Lemaire stepped down, citing he took the Wild as far as he could. Minnesota made the playoffs three times under Lemaire’s trying tutelage.
General manager, Lou Lamoriello, assigned Lemaire the vacated job on Monday after agreeing on a contract last weekend. As a player, coach and executive, Lemaire is a 11 time Stanley Cup winner. His coaching resume includes stops in Montreal, New Jersey and Minnesota and now Lemaire will start his second stint with the 2009-10 Devils. Lamoriello also announced new assistant coaching positions for the team. Mario Tremblay, Tommy Albelin and Jacques Caron are the three assistants starring under Lemaire. Tremblay is completely new to the organization and was Lemaire’s assistant in Minnesota. The defensive leader for the Wild, Tremblay intends to be an influence in New Jersey’s progression on the rink. The Devils are a very offensive team, but it should be good to see Tremblay infuse his tactics on the defensive end. I think that is where the Devils struggled last season, and especially when they gave up two late goals to the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 7 of the post-season. A bit of physicality would be a good thing if it means the Devils crawl closer to the cup again.
The team also announced in Monday’s teleconference that current assistant coach, John MacLean, would take over in Lowell, Massachusetts for the baby Devils of the AHL. I thought MacLean was the leading man to take over for Sutter, but he was once again passed over for the former feature flame.
The hiring of Lemaire is a solid move and I am pleased with the decision by Lamoriello. The organization is heading in the right direction and after eight seasons in Minnesota, Lemaire may just need a change of scenery to become the powerful leader he was in the 1990s for New Jersey. Lemaire’s defensive system propelled the prosperous Devils to their first Stanley Cup. The roster is in dire need of a firepower fine-tuning. The Wild teams under Lemaire were in the top five in goals against the last seven years. They were 22nd in scoring last season, so my only concern would be how Lemaire is going to guide the Devils offense to great heights. Some passion and hard work from the head coach might be enough to reinvent the wheel for 2009 Devils hockey.
Parting points: My favorite from Beck, “Girl”, resonating from my stereo. I love this weather and this is the ultimate summer tune.
Lemaire anchored the 1995 New Jersey Devils to the Stanley Cup and the 63 year old coached the team through five seasons. He recently resigned as the Minnesota Wild head coach after being with the team since their expansion inception in 2000. Lemaire stepped down, citing he took the Wild as far as he could. Minnesota made the playoffs three times under Lemaire’s trying tutelage.
General manager, Lou Lamoriello, assigned Lemaire the vacated job on Monday after agreeing on a contract last weekend. As a player, coach and executive, Lemaire is a 11 time Stanley Cup winner. His coaching resume includes stops in Montreal, New Jersey and Minnesota and now Lemaire will start his second stint with the 2009-10 Devils. Lamoriello also announced new assistant coaching positions for the team. Mario Tremblay, Tommy Albelin and Jacques Caron are the three assistants starring under Lemaire. Tremblay is completely new to the organization and was Lemaire’s assistant in Minnesota. The defensive leader for the Wild, Tremblay intends to be an influence in New Jersey’s progression on the rink. The Devils are a very offensive team, but it should be good to see Tremblay infuse his tactics on the defensive end. I think that is where the Devils struggled last season, and especially when they gave up two late goals to the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 7 of the post-season. A bit of physicality would be a good thing if it means the Devils crawl closer to the cup again.
The team also announced in Monday’s teleconference that current assistant coach, John MacLean, would take over in Lowell, Massachusetts for the baby Devils of the AHL. I thought MacLean was the leading man to take over for Sutter, but he was once again passed over for the former feature flame.
The hiring of Lemaire is a solid move and I am pleased with the decision by Lamoriello. The organization is heading in the right direction and after eight seasons in Minnesota, Lemaire may just need a change of scenery to become the powerful leader he was in the 1990s for New Jersey. Lemaire’s defensive system propelled the prosperous Devils to their first Stanley Cup. The roster is in dire need of a firepower fine-tuning. The Wild teams under Lemaire were in the top five in goals against the last seven years. They were 22nd in scoring last season, so my only concern would be how Lemaire is going to guide the Devils offense to great heights. Some passion and hard work from the head coach might be enough to reinvent the wheel for 2009 Devils hockey.
Parting points: My favorite from Beck, “Girl”, resonating from my stereo. I love this weather and this is the ultimate summer tune.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Andy's Angels Atrocity
The demonic Angels continue to haunt the New York Yankees in Anaheim. Bronx Bombers’ starter, Andy Pettitte, was reluctantly rocked by a rallying Angels team on Saturday afternoon in California. The unfriendly West Coast loss saw the Yankees fall two games behind the Boston Red Sox in the A.L. East. Boston hammered the hapless Kansas City Royals 15-9 last night, as John Smoltz picked up his first win as a Red Sox hurler.
The pesky Anaheim offense got the better of Pettitte in a seven run fifth inning. Pettitte was pulled from the game rashly after being roughed up. Mike Napoli knocked a nifty go-ahead double off New York reliever, Dave Robertson, in the fifth, and added a solo shot in the seventh for the Angels. The Yankees clubbed a season-high five long balls, including two each by Alex Rodriguez and the newest Bomber, Eric Hinske. Still, the Yankees were defeated by the grind-it-out home team.
Pettitte turned in a subpar mound performance and failed to go the distance to salvage an overused Bomber bullpen. New York’s magnificent southpaw was provided a four run cushion, but could not sustain the advantage against the team’s Achilles heal opponent. The Yankees were vaulted into a first place tie before heading out to SoCal to face their nemesis. But, the curse of the Angels that plagued Joe Torre has also hampered current New York skipper, Joe Girardi. Anaheim has 24 runs in the first two games against the flattened New Yorkers. The stubborn Angels’ base running was no match for the defensively depleted Bombers and the stadium caused more headaches yesterday.
Pettitte was brilliant through three scoreless innings until the fated fifth frame. The Angels administered a 14-8 comeback victory on their mindless way of spanking the Yanks even without sluggers Vladimir Guerrero and Torii Hunter. Anaheim leads the majors in come-from-behind wins with 26, one more than the Yankees. The Angels punished Yankee pitchers for 16 hits, counting the seven by Pettitte. The 37 year old did not survive past the fifth because of the big blow off Brandon Wood’s bat. Wood, a Triple A prospect recalled on Friday, socked a two run homer with no outs. Howie Kendrick capped off the inning with a single, good for two more Angel tallies.
Former Yankees outfielder, Bobby Abreu, candidly contributed three RBIs against his old team. Jared Weaver started on the hill for the Angels. Weaver surrendered Rodriguez’s 569th career blast in the first. Arod would dish out a second serving later in the game to place the All-star third baseman 10th on the all-time homerun list. Hinske, an acquisition from Pittsburgh last week, homered in the second inning, his second as a Bomber. Robinson Cano extended the Yankees lead in the fourth inning to 4-0 when his single resulted in two runs. Hinske smacked his second shot in the seventh off Darren Oliver. Jason Bulger, pitching in relief for the Angels, issued Arod’s second tater, and Hideki Matsui reverberated as the very next batter.
The Yankees cut the Angels lead to two when Hinske lined out to second with the tying run at the plate. New York inched as close as they could manage before the Angels offense exploded for a second time. Anaheim tacked on four more runs in the bottom of the eighth off Phil Coke to put the afternoon out of reach for the Yankees. Pettitte took the upsetting loss, enduring his second straight. The left-hander’s 2009 stands at 8-5 and his ERA at 5.94 in his last four outings. Saturday was Arod’s first multihomer gem of the year. The Yankees are just 7-17 in Anaheim the past five seasons. Friday night Joba Chamberlain and the Yankees were on the losing side because the Angels staged a comeback from a 5-1 deficit. The opening game was perhaps a microcosm of the way things are headed as the Bombers close out the series today.
Parting points: Song of the day- “Angel of Mine”- Monica
The pesky Anaheim offense got the better of Pettitte in a seven run fifth inning. Pettitte was pulled from the game rashly after being roughed up. Mike Napoli knocked a nifty go-ahead double off New York reliever, Dave Robertson, in the fifth, and added a solo shot in the seventh for the Angels. The Yankees clubbed a season-high five long balls, including two each by Alex Rodriguez and the newest Bomber, Eric Hinske. Still, the Yankees were defeated by the grind-it-out home team.
Pettitte turned in a subpar mound performance and failed to go the distance to salvage an overused Bomber bullpen. New York’s magnificent southpaw was provided a four run cushion, but could not sustain the advantage against the team’s Achilles heal opponent. The Yankees were vaulted into a first place tie before heading out to SoCal to face their nemesis. But, the curse of the Angels that plagued Joe Torre has also hampered current New York skipper, Joe Girardi. Anaheim has 24 runs in the first two games against the flattened New Yorkers. The stubborn Angels’ base running was no match for the defensively depleted Bombers and the stadium caused more headaches yesterday.
Pettitte was brilliant through three scoreless innings until the fated fifth frame. The Angels administered a 14-8 comeback victory on their mindless way of spanking the Yanks even without sluggers Vladimir Guerrero and Torii Hunter. Anaheim leads the majors in come-from-behind wins with 26, one more than the Yankees. The Angels punished Yankee pitchers for 16 hits, counting the seven by Pettitte. The 37 year old did not survive past the fifth because of the big blow off Brandon Wood’s bat. Wood, a Triple A prospect recalled on Friday, socked a two run homer with no outs. Howie Kendrick capped off the inning with a single, good for two more Angel tallies.
Former Yankees outfielder, Bobby Abreu, candidly contributed three RBIs against his old team. Jared Weaver started on the hill for the Angels. Weaver surrendered Rodriguez’s 569th career blast in the first. Arod would dish out a second serving later in the game to place the All-star third baseman 10th on the all-time homerun list. Hinske, an acquisition from Pittsburgh last week, homered in the second inning, his second as a Bomber. Robinson Cano extended the Yankees lead in the fourth inning to 4-0 when his single resulted in two runs. Hinske smacked his second shot in the seventh off Darren Oliver. Jason Bulger, pitching in relief for the Angels, issued Arod’s second tater, and Hideki Matsui reverberated as the very next batter.
The Yankees cut the Angels lead to two when Hinske lined out to second with the tying run at the plate. New York inched as close as they could manage before the Angels offense exploded for a second time. Anaheim tacked on four more runs in the bottom of the eighth off Phil Coke to put the afternoon out of reach for the Yankees. Pettitte took the upsetting loss, enduring his second straight. The left-hander’s 2009 stands at 8-5 and his ERA at 5.94 in his last four outings. Saturday was Arod’s first multihomer gem of the year. The Yankees are just 7-17 in Anaheim the past five seasons. Friday night Joba Chamberlain and the Yankees were on the losing side because the Angels staged a comeback from a 5-1 deficit. The opening game was perhaps a microcosm of the way things are headed as the Bombers close out the series today.
Parting points: Song of the day- “Angel of Mine”- Monica
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Sanchez Stunner
Baseball’s first no hitter of 2009 occurred at A T & T Park in San Francisco as the hometown Giants shut out the visiting ball club from San Diego, 8-0. Jonathan Sanchez turned in a Randy Johnson vintage-like performance in his spot start for the sidelined left-handed hurler. Johnson went on the disabled list earlier this week because of shoulder problems. Sanchez, a recently-demoted Giant and pitcher in trade talk discussion, tossed the franchise’s first no-no in 33 years. An eighth inning fielding error stood in the way of perfect game.
The Puerto Rico native Sanchez returned to San Francisco’s rotation and shined in his second chance as a starter. The 26 year old southpaw was so bad this season for the Giants he was banished to the bullpen last month. Sanchez had not started a game since June 22nd for Bruce Bochy’s staff. He held a 3-8 record before Friday night’s unbelievable accomplishment. Sanchez was slotted into the schedule and showed complete control in his showcase start for Johnson. He threw breaking balls effectively and only allowed one base runner on Juan Uribe’s error at third base. Chase Headley reached when Uribe bobbled a hard-hit but routine grounder then fumbled in two attempts to throw the runner out at first.
Sanchez struck out a career high eleven Padres, and did not issue a walk on the night. He fanned Everth Cabrera looking to end the game facing his 28th batter, one more than the minimum. The closest San Diego came to breaking up Sanchez’s no-hit bid was in the ninth. Gold Glove outfielder, Aaron Rowand, saved the Giants’ pitcher when he banged into the wall to catch Edgar Gonzalez’s long drive to center. Sanchez won for the first time since May 25th. The trend of terrific starting pitching continues to keep the 2009 San Francisco Giants in the playoff hunt. Tim Lincecum was near perfect against the Padres before Tony Gwynn’s seventh inning hit a night before. Johnson earned his 300th win a few months ago, and Matt Cain and Barry Zito are two performers who can go the distance. If the Giants can get their offense rolling in the second half, Sanchez becomes another asset the team probably did not foresee being a factor down the stretch. The team leads the majors in shutouts this year, with 13 total. The Giants have a great culture capable of clarifying and contending with their crippling pitchers.
The last no-hit gem thrown by a San Francisco Giant was in 1976 by John Montefusco. It was the 13th no-hitter in club history. Sanchez did his with 110 pitches, 77 for strikes.
Parting points: On July 11, 1985, Nolan Ryan of the Houston Astros becomes the first pitcher in history to record 4,000 strikeouts. Ryan notches the milestone when he fans New York Mets outfielder Danny Heep on three pitches in the sixth inning.
Happy 150th birthday to Big Ben!
The Puerto Rico native Sanchez returned to San Francisco’s rotation and shined in his second chance as a starter. The 26 year old southpaw was so bad this season for the Giants he was banished to the bullpen last month. Sanchez had not started a game since June 22nd for Bruce Bochy’s staff. He held a 3-8 record before Friday night’s unbelievable accomplishment. Sanchez was slotted into the schedule and showed complete control in his showcase start for Johnson. He threw breaking balls effectively and only allowed one base runner on Juan Uribe’s error at third base. Chase Headley reached when Uribe bobbled a hard-hit but routine grounder then fumbled in two attempts to throw the runner out at first.
Sanchez struck out a career high eleven Padres, and did not issue a walk on the night. He fanned Everth Cabrera looking to end the game facing his 28th batter, one more than the minimum. The closest San Diego came to breaking up Sanchez’s no-hit bid was in the ninth. Gold Glove outfielder, Aaron Rowand, saved the Giants’ pitcher when he banged into the wall to catch Edgar Gonzalez’s long drive to center. Sanchez won for the first time since May 25th. The trend of terrific starting pitching continues to keep the 2009 San Francisco Giants in the playoff hunt. Tim Lincecum was near perfect against the Padres before Tony Gwynn’s seventh inning hit a night before. Johnson earned his 300th win a few months ago, and Matt Cain and Barry Zito are two performers who can go the distance. If the Giants can get their offense rolling in the second half, Sanchez becomes another asset the team probably did not foresee being a factor down the stretch. The team leads the majors in shutouts this year, with 13 total. The Giants have a great culture capable of clarifying and contending with their crippling pitchers.
The last no-hit gem thrown by a San Francisco Giant was in 1976 by John Montefusco. It was the 13th no-hitter in club history. Sanchez did his with 110 pitches, 77 for strikes.
Parting points: On July 11, 1985, Nolan Ryan of the Houston Astros becomes the first pitcher in history to record 4,000 strikeouts. Ryan notches the milestone when he fans New York Mets outfielder Danny Heep on three pitches in the sixth inning.
Happy 150th birthday to Big Ben!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Relocating Roy
The sweepstakes for the most coveted pitcher in the American League is officially on. The Philadelphia Phillies pursuit of Toronto’s ace places the World Series champions as the prime place for Roy Halladay’s services. Bluejays’ GM, J.P. Ricciardi, is smart to take offers for the superstar righty. Philadelphia would look even smarter if they invested in the former CY Young winner to add to a rotation that already includes stud pitcher and reigning World Series MVP, Cole Hamels.
The Jays are free falling out of contention in the A.L. East and looking to shop Halladay if the request is right. The Red Sox and Yankees are heating up with the summer sun and the Rays show no signs of cooling. Chances are, the wildcard will come out of the Eastern division but the Jays’ slim hopes are quickly fading. In addition to the dismal standing conditions, Toronto can ill afford to keep Halladay on their payroll beyond this season. The team owes Vernon Wells and Alex Rios an approximate $160 million. Wells has been quite the disappointing outfielder this year, showing remarkably diminished skills. Rios is worth his pay, but the Bluejays are looking to act now to cash in on their prized pitcher to improve future years. The trade market for quality starting pitching is barren and the All-Star Halladay would be an incredible pick up for any team. Offers for Roy are expected to be lucrative since he is one of the best in baseball. He could be a definite difference-maker for a team close to reaching the post-season.
The Phillies are the most likely candidate to strike gold at the mid-point and have been tracking Halladay’s status since the start of Spring. If Halladay pitches for the rest of 2009 and more, it is going to cost more than a top-notch prospect for a trade to ensue. The 32 year old has a no-trade clause and the right to name his team. He probably wants to play for a perennial contender and has a history of signing for less than he’s virtually worth Toronto was his team of choice in years’ past, but with the Jays remaining uncompetitive, Halladay may be ready to make a career move.
Toronto would not rule out dangling Roy in front the Red Sox or Yankees, and Halladay would not object to wearing those rival uniforms. New York would likely have to offer a package involving right-hander, Phil Hughes, or intriguing farmhand backstops, Jesus Montero or Austin Romine. Boston could potentially ship Clay Bucholz, the stunning hurler, to the Jays in a blockbuster trade for Halladay. Such a move would automatically upgrade the Red Sox to the top pitching staff in the league, with Josh Beckett and Halladay as the stiffling one-two punch.
The Phillies still make the most sense for a trade deadline deal. Their improved farm system offers optimal options, but presumably their payroll is already excessive. The Jays seek at least one MLB-ready position player and a top pitching prospect to groom for the 2010 season. Outfielders, Dominic Brown, John Mayberry, Jr., and Michael Taylor are peak entities in Philly. Young starters, J.A. Happ, Carlos Carrasco, Antonio Bastardo, and Kyle Drabek strategically make sense as trade bait in any combination for Halladay.
Most experts believe Halladay would thrive on a big market club despite his reserved personality. In terms of publicity, no doubt would Halladay be stirred up in Philadelphia, New York and Boston. The Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets are other playoff-minded teams in need of extra insurance on the mound. The Dodgers would love to round out an already phenomenal team by boosting their young rotation with a seasoned veteran talent. The Mets cannot afford to lose any more ground in the N.L. East. GM Omar Minaya should consider acquiring Halladay simply to keep him out of Philadelphia’s ballpark or the unlikely chance the Braves show interest in an attempt to win a wildcard spot. If Halladay has any sense, he wouldn’t accept a trade to a team currently without a shortstop, first baseman and centerfielder in New York. The Mets would have to empty their farm system to snag the righty off the competitive market.
Two California teams, the Angels and Giants, are also in the Halladay sweepstakes, although longshots. The Jays would probably ask for more than what the Angels are willing to offer in terms of a fair exchange. San Francisco has a highly regarded pitcher in Madison Bumgarner and may be willing to expand payroll if the team remains in the wildcard hunt on the senior circuit this summer.
The Brewers have two blue-chip prospects in Alcides Escobar and Mat Gamel. The mid-level Milwaukee front office would be hesitant to part with their future for a Roy rental after the C.C. Sabathia experiment last season. The Texas Rangers are desperate for pitching and knee-deep in quality prospects. But, the finances in Arlington are limited and Halladay may not be thrilled to throw in the hitter-friendly Texas park.
Whichever team lands the coveted ace will be lucky indeed. I did not expect Toronto to be shopping Roy at all this year. The fans have to go to the ballpark for something, and Roy appeared to be their reason.
Parting points: A day late, but a happy belated birthday to Beck. “Modern Guilt” is the album of the week.
The Jays are free falling out of contention in the A.L. East and looking to shop Halladay if the request is right. The Red Sox and Yankees are heating up with the summer sun and the Rays show no signs of cooling. Chances are, the wildcard will come out of the Eastern division but the Jays’ slim hopes are quickly fading. In addition to the dismal standing conditions, Toronto can ill afford to keep Halladay on their payroll beyond this season. The team owes Vernon Wells and Alex Rios an approximate $160 million. Wells has been quite the disappointing outfielder this year, showing remarkably diminished skills. Rios is worth his pay, but the Bluejays are looking to act now to cash in on their prized pitcher to improve future years. The trade market for quality starting pitching is barren and the All-Star Halladay would be an incredible pick up for any team. Offers for Roy are expected to be lucrative since he is one of the best in baseball. He could be a definite difference-maker for a team close to reaching the post-season.
The Phillies are the most likely candidate to strike gold at the mid-point and have been tracking Halladay’s status since the start of Spring. If Halladay pitches for the rest of 2009 and more, it is going to cost more than a top-notch prospect for a trade to ensue. The 32 year old has a no-trade clause and the right to name his team. He probably wants to play for a perennial contender and has a history of signing for less than he’s virtually worth Toronto was his team of choice in years’ past, but with the Jays remaining uncompetitive, Halladay may be ready to make a career move.
Toronto would not rule out dangling Roy in front the Red Sox or Yankees, and Halladay would not object to wearing those rival uniforms. New York would likely have to offer a package involving right-hander, Phil Hughes, or intriguing farmhand backstops, Jesus Montero or Austin Romine. Boston could potentially ship Clay Bucholz, the stunning hurler, to the Jays in a blockbuster trade for Halladay. Such a move would automatically upgrade the Red Sox to the top pitching staff in the league, with Josh Beckett and Halladay as the stiffling one-two punch.
The Phillies still make the most sense for a trade deadline deal. Their improved farm system offers optimal options, but presumably their payroll is already excessive. The Jays seek at least one MLB-ready position player and a top pitching prospect to groom for the 2010 season. Outfielders, Dominic Brown, John Mayberry, Jr., and Michael Taylor are peak entities in Philly. Young starters, J.A. Happ, Carlos Carrasco, Antonio Bastardo, and Kyle Drabek strategically make sense as trade bait in any combination for Halladay.
Most experts believe Halladay would thrive on a big market club despite his reserved personality. In terms of publicity, no doubt would Halladay be stirred up in Philadelphia, New York and Boston. The Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets are other playoff-minded teams in need of extra insurance on the mound. The Dodgers would love to round out an already phenomenal team by boosting their young rotation with a seasoned veteran talent. The Mets cannot afford to lose any more ground in the N.L. East. GM Omar Minaya should consider acquiring Halladay simply to keep him out of Philadelphia’s ballpark or the unlikely chance the Braves show interest in an attempt to win a wildcard spot. If Halladay has any sense, he wouldn’t accept a trade to a team currently without a shortstop, first baseman and centerfielder in New York. The Mets would have to empty their farm system to snag the righty off the competitive market.
Two California teams, the Angels and Giants, are also in the Halladay sweepstakes, although longshots. The Jays would probably ask for more than what the Angels are willing to offer in terms of a fair exchange. San Francisco has a highly regarded pitcher in Madison Bumgarner and may be willing to expand payroll if the team remains in the wildcard hunt on the senior circuit this summer.
The Brewers have two blue-chip prospects in Alcides Escobar and Mat Gamel. The mid-level Milwaukee front office would be hesitant to part with their future for a Roy rental after the C.C. Sabathia experiment last season. The Texas Rangers are desperate for pitching and knee-deep in quality prospects. But, the finances in Arlington are limited and Halladay may not be thrilled to throw in the hitter-friendly Texas park.
Whichever team lands the coveted ace will be lucky indeed. I did not expect Toronto to be shopping Roy at all this year. The fans have to go to the ballpark for something, and Roy appeared to be their reason.
Parting points: A day late, but a happy belated birthday to Beck. “Modern Guilt” is the album of the week.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Believable Best
The 1973 Ohio State Buckeyes are believably the best team in scarlet and gray football history. Coached by the legendary workhorse, Woody Hayes, the ‘73 team dominated the regular season on way to a 10-0-1 Big Ten conference co-championship season. The final game on the schedule, a November 24th showdown with rival Michigan, was the only Buckeye glitch. The game at Ann Arbor’s Big House resulted in a 10-10 tie and compounded a complicate, complex conclusion in the conference. The Big Ten’s athletic directors gathered to vote on which powerhouse would represent the conference in the Rose Bowl.
The Buckeyes went on to the procedural Pasadena production, and toppled the USC Trojans 42-21 in the ‘74 Rose Bowl game. Ohio State rolled up 323 ground yards that New Years’ and got revenge against the previous year’s humiliating 42-17 crushing by John McKay’s squad. The emphatic victory was accomplished with touchdowns by burly back, Pete Johnson and an automated, Archie Griffin. Johnson scored three touchdowns and Griffin padded the score in the fourth quarter with his swift 47 yard burst. USC was spotted a 21-14 third quarter lead in the ‘74 bowl game before Ohio State’s offense exploded for 28 second-half points. The Bucks buried the horsemen for a cool celebration in Southern California on an early winter day.
Sophomore quarterback, Cornelius Greene, propelled Hayes’ offense in 1973 with his gun for an arm. The flashy Greene was Hayes’ preference over other viable signal-callers because of his excellent running ability. Greene was Ohio State’s first African American quarterback. Griffin was another leading man on the team, and also in his second school year. The halfback led the Big Ten in 1973 with over 1,500 yards rushing. The offense line was anchored by Outland and Lombardi Trophy winner, John Hicks. Hicks went on to play for the Giants and the Steelers in the NFL after his success as the Buckeyes’ best lineman in school history. Kurt Schumacher teamed up with Hicks in the gifted tackling front line sporting scarlet and gray. Bruce Elia, the former Miami Dolphin and San Francisco 49er, hailed from New Jersey but excelled in Columbus in 1973. Elia was a junior fullback and solid contributor in the backfield as a converted linebacker. Freshman Johnson and second year wingback, Brian Baschnagel made up Ohio State’s inexperienced, young set of skill players. Both were extravagantly talented though, leaving the Bucks with very few weaknesses personnel-wise. Randy Gradishar was in the running for the Heismann and finished in the top six to end the season. Gradishar and Rick Middleton were unstoppable linebackers for Hayes’ defense, which embodied greatness at every level. Tackles Pete Cusick and Van Ness DeCree contributed at the line and the secondary shined with style. Steve Luke, Neal Colzie and Tim Fox were the defensive gems gaining attention in 1973 as the Buckeyes completed an undefeated year. The impenetrable unit allowed just two touchdowns in the first eight games in 1973, and pitted shutouts in Wisconsin and Illinois, and at home against Northwestern and Michigan State. The Bucks smashed Northwestern 60-0 that year and annihilated the Spartans, 35-0. The season began with an overpowering performance at home against the Golden Gophers of Minnesota. Ohio State won 56-7 in. The team would not allow more than seven points until the ninth game of the season. A winless Iowa team compiled 13 points in a second-rate effort, losing 55-13 at home.
The final game against Michigan was the most telling of the year for Ohio State. The challenge of playing against an undefeated Wolverines team foaming at the mouth for a Rose Bowl appearance was enormous. Bo Schembechler wanted tremendously to beat his mentor Hayes in the incredible rivalry game. Hayes’ decision to put the game in the hands of his defense backfired after the Buckeyes took the 10-0 advantage at the half. The conservative coach thought he could control the game but Michigan turned out to be in the driver’s seat once the second half began. The maize and blue out-gained Ohio State in yardage and stormed back to tie the game in the fourth quarter. Mike Lantry missed two field goals for Michigan in the waning seconds. The pair of missed opportunities preserved the deadlock and sent the matter into the Big 10 meeting room for further review.
The 1973 Ohio State team indeed was an impressive bunch of Buckeyes. Seven players were eventual first round draft picks in the NFL and three Buckeyes ranked in the top six for the Heisman race. Hicks came in second and Griffin and Gradishar finished fifth and sixth. Ohio State was the only Big 10 Rose Bowl winner in the entire decade of the 1970’s. It was perhaps Hayes’ finest moment as a head coach and one season that will be remembered forever.
Parting points: Song of the day- “It’s Alright”- 311
Page turner- “The Sun Also Rises”- Ernest Hemingway
The Buckeyes went on to the procedural Pasadena production, and toppled the USC Trojans 42-21 in the ‘74 Rose Bowl game. Ohio State rolled up 323 ground yards that New Years’ and got revenge against the previous year’s humiliating 42-17 crushing by John McKay’s squad. The emphatic victory was accomplished with touchdowns by burly back, Pete Johnson and an automated, Archie Griffin. Johnson scored three touchdowns and Griffin padded the score in the fourth quarter with his swift 47 yard burst. USC was spotted a 21-14 third quarter lead in the ‘74 bowl game before Ohio State’s offense exploded for 28 second-half points. The Bucks buried the horsemen for a cool celebration in Southern California on an early winter day.
Sophomore quarterback, Cornelius Greene, propelled Hayes’ offense in 1973 with his gun for an arm. The flashy Greene was Hayes’ preference over other viable signal-callers because of his excellent running ability. Greene was Ohio State’s first African American quarterback. Griffin was another leading man on the team, and also in his second school year. The halfback led the Big Ten in 1973 with over 1,500 yards rushing. The offense line was anchored by Outland and Lombardi Trophy winner, John Hicks. Hicks went on to play for the Giants and the Steelers in the NFL after his success as the Buckeyes’ best lineman in school history. Kurt Schumacher teamed up with Hicks in the gifted tackling front line sporting scarlet and gray. Bruce Elia, the former Miami Dolphin and San Francisco 49er, hailed from New Jersey but excelled in Columbus in 1973. Elia was a junior fullback and solid contributor in the backfield as a converted linebacker. Freshman Johnson and second year wingback, Brian Baschnagel made up Ohio State’s inexperienced, young set of skill players. Both were extravagantly talented though, leaving the Bucks with very few weaknesses personnel-wise. Randy Gradishar was in the running for the Heismann and finished in the top six to end the season. Gradishar and Rick Middleton were unstoppable linebackers for Hayes’ defense, which embodied greatness at every level. Tackles Pete Cusick and Van Ness DeCree contributed at the line and the secondary shined with style. Steve Luke, Neal Colzie and Tim Fox were the defensive gems gaining attention in 1973 as the Buckeyes completed an undefeated year. The impenetrable unit allowed just two touchdowns in the first eight games in 1973, and pitted shutouts in Wisconsin and Illinois, and at home against Northwestern and Michigan State. The Bucks smashed Northwestern 60-0 that year and annihilated the Spartans, 35-0. The season began with an overpowering performance at home against the Golden Gophers of Minnesota. Ohio State won 56-7 in. The team would not allow more than seven points until the ninth game of the season. A winless Iowa team compiled 13 points in a second-rate effort, losing 55-13 at home.
The final game against Michigan was the most telling of the year for Ohio State. The challenge of playing against an undefeated Wolverines team foaming at the mouth for a Rose Bowl appearance was enormous. Bo Schembechler wanted tremendously to beat his mentor Hayes in the incredible rivalry game. Hayes’ decision to put the game in the hands of his defense backfired after the Buckeyes took the 10-0 advantage at the half. The conservative coach thought he could control the game but Michigan turned out to be in the driver’s seat once the second half began. The maize and blue out-gained Ohio State in yardage and stormed back to tie the game in the fourth quarter. Mike Lantry missed two field goals for Michigan in the waning seconds. The pair of missed opportunities preserved the deadlock and sent the matter into the Big 10 meeting room for further review.
The 1973 Ohio State team indeed was an impressive bunch of Buckeyes. Seven players were eventual first round draft picks in the NFL and three Buckeyes ranked in the top six for the Heisman race. Hicks came in second and Griffin and Gradishar finished fifth and sixth. Ohio State was the only Big 10 Rose Bowl winner in the entire decade of the 1970’s. It was perhaps Hayes’ finest moment as a head coach and one season that will be remembered forever.
Parting points: Song of the day- “It’s Alright”- 311
Page turner- “The Sun Also Rises”- Ernest Hemingway
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Commits, Comebacks, Crushings & Contracts
C.J. and Xavier Henry are committing to Kansas basketball. The highly recruited brothers will play for Bill Self’s Jayhawks after deciding not to attend a John Calipari-less Memphis Tigers team. The dynamic dribbling duo was considering playing for Calipari at his new school, Kentucky, but confirmed they will instead wear Kansas digs in 2009.
The Baltimore Orioles staged the biggest comeback in their history by embarrassing the Boston Red Sox last night. The O’s won 11-10 Tuesday after staging a nine-run comeback. The rally began in the 7th inning at Camden Yards. The shocking come-from-behind scoring came against a Boston team that had demoralized Baltimore eight straight times, including five this year. The Red Sox figured the lead was insurmountable as they took the field in the bottom half of the 7th. Baltimore used seven hits in the frame, topped by a three run bomb by pinch-hitting Oscar Salazar. The Orioles rattled the electrifying and overpowering Boston bullpen. Jonathan Papelbon entered in the 8th inning to preserve the four run lead and pick up the save. He failed in doing both when Nick Markakis delivered a two run double off the right-handed Boston reliever. The lucky lob to left was Markakis’ first hit off Papelbon in his last eight at-bats. Nick struck out four times this year when facing Papelbon, but stroked the shot to complete the courageous comeback. Dumfounded Red Sox pitcher, John Smoltz, hoped to snare a win in just his second start in Boston. A rain delay ruined the chance for the aging hurler. Smoltz left the game with a 9-1 lead in the fifth after a justifiable performance. He allowed three hits and one Baltimore run, while striking out two of the fifteen he faced. Kevin Youkilis, the leading All-Star first baseman in fan votes, clubbed his 13th homerun of the season, and Jacoby Ellsbury also went long for Boston. None of it mattered because the hapless O’s stunningly manufactured runs and recorded their greatest comeback since 1956.
Yao that hurts! Yes, Ming might miss the entire NBA season next year, and his injury could crush his career. The Houston Rockets took a hit when the news of #11 came down Monday. The proud franchise may have to make some changes if their Chinese sensation is sidelined for any extensive time. A slew of reports indicate Ming’s fractured foot might even be career-threatening. That certainly would crush the Rockets, and the hearts of basketball fans worldwide. If doctors decide Yao can no longer pay, it will be sad to see him retire early in his impressive career.
Defenseman Johnny Oduya re-signed with the New Jersey Devils. The 27 year old, third year player, came to terms with the team on a new contract. Last season, Oduya scored career highs in goals and assits, with 7 and 22 respectfully. It’s nice to know the Devils are trying to keep their defensive gems in tact. Oduya will factor into the 2009 campaign I am sure and it was wise for Lou Lamoriello to re-up the rising star before he entered free agency today. The Devils qualify as one of the better organizations when it comes to acquiring the right players. They are not as rich or classy as the Rangers, but the Devils always build a quality team in New Jersey. Speaking of the Blueshirts, they shipped Scott Gomez to Montreal and acquired winger, Chris Higgins, among other players. The Habs’ number one and 14th overall pick in 2002, is a Yale graduate who will provide scoring opportunities for the Rangers. The two-time Stanley Cup winner with the Devils, center Gomez, commanded a big contract I am sure New York was only too happy to unload.
Parting points: The Yankees signed Eric Hinske yesterday. He is familiar with the AL East, but I am not sure how the addition makes the team that much better. Hinske will play third base when A-Rod sits but that means the Bombers are a bench player short in the utility department. The versatile Hinske will add power about as equal to that we would have seen from Xavier Nady. He’s a versatile player who has flown under the radar during his major league career.
I am very disappointed Leyton Hewitt lost to Andy Roddick at Wimbledon this afternoon.
The Baltimore Orioles staged the biggest comeback in their history by embarrassing the Boston Red Sox last night. The O’s won 11-10 Tuesday after staging a nine-run comeback. The rally began in the 7th inning at Camden Yards. The shocking come-from-behind scoring came against a Boston team that had demoralized Baltimore eight straight times, including five this year. The Red Sox figured the lead was insurmountable as they took the field in the bottom half of the 7th. Baltimore used seven hits in the frame, topped by a three run bomb by pinch-hitting Oscar Salazar. The Orioles rattled the electrifying and overpowering Boston bullpen. Jonathan Papelbon entered in the 8th inning to preserve the four run lead and pick up the save. He failed in doing both when Nick Markakis delivered a two run double off the right-handed Boston reliever. The lucky lob to left was Markakis’ first hit off Papelbon in his last eight at-bats. Nick struck out four times this year when facing Papelbon, but stroked the shot to complete the courageous comeback. Dumfounded Red Sox pitcher, John Smoltz, hoped to snare a win in just his second start in Boston. A rain delay ruined the chance for the aging hurler. Smoltz left the game with a 9-1 lead in the fifth after a justifiable performance. He allowed three hits and one Baltimore run, while striking out two of the fifteen he faced. Kevin Youkilis, the leading All-Star first baseman in fan votes, clubbed his 13th homerun of the season, and Jacoby Ellsbury also went long for Boston. None of it mattered because the hapless O’s stunningly manufactured runs and recorded their greatest comeback since 1956.
Yao that hurts! Yes, Ming might miss the entire NBA season next year, and his injury could crush his career. The Houston Rockets took a hit when the news of #11 came down Monday. The proud franchise may have to make some changes if their Chinese sensation is sidelined for any extensive time. A slew of reports indicate Ming’s fractured foot might even be career-threatening. That certainly would crush the Rockets, and the hearts of basketball fans worldwide. If doctors decide Yao can no longer pay, it will be sad to see him retire early in his impressive career.
Defenseman Johnny Oduya re-signed with the New Jersey Devils. The 27 year old, third year player, came to terms with the team on a new contract. Last season, Oduya scored career highs in goals and assits, with 7 and 22 respectfully. It’s nice to know the Devils are trying to keep their defensive gems in tact. Oduya will factor into the 2009 campaign I am sure and it was wise for Lou Lamoriello to re-up the rising star before he entered free agency today. The Devils qualify as one of the better organizations when it comes to acquiring the right players. They are not as rich or classy as the Rangers, but the Devils always build a quality team in New Jersey. Speaking of the Blueshirts, they shipped Scott Gomez to Montreal and acquired winger, Chris Higgins, among other players. The Habs’ number one and 14th overall pick in 2002, is a Yale graduate who will provide scoring opportunities for the Rangers. The two-time Stanley Cup winner with the Devils, center Gomez, commanded a big contract I am sure New York was only too happy to unload.
Parting points: The Yankees signed Eric Hinske yesterday. He is familiar with the AL East, but I am not sure how the addition makes the team that much better. Hinske will play third base when A-Rod sits but that means the Bombers are a bench player short in the utility department. The versatile Hinske will add power about as equal to that we would have seen from Xavier Nady. He’s a versatile player who has flown under the radar during his major league career.
I am very disappointed Leyton Hewitt lost to Andy Roddick at Wimbledon this afternoon.
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