Ricky Stanzi and the Hawkeyes massacred Michigan State on Saturday afternoon in Iowa City. The only undefeated team in the conference, MSU was crushed 37-6 in the Big 10 rivalry game at Kinnick Stadium. Iowa improved to 6-2 overall while the Spartans suffered their first loss of the season to drop to 8-1. Stanzi threw for 190 yards and three scores and Adam Robinson added a pair of touchdowns for the 18th ranked Hawkeyes.
The Spartans couldn’t get anything right in the first half. Michigan State quarterback, Kirk Cousins was picked off three times and the home team lead 30-0 by halftime. MSU struggled with the pass and with the run, while Iowa recorded 238 yards on offense during the first half. Iowa moved down the field 80 yards on their first drive and never looked back. Colin Sandeman snagged a three yard pass from Stanzi to tally the first Iowa touchdown. Michael Meyer legged a 37 yard field goal to give the Hawkeyes a 10-0 edge with 2:44 in the first stanza. Iowa completed their first quarter scoring with just ten seconds remaining to take a sizable 17-0 lead heading into the second. Micah Hyde pulled in a 66 yard interception return for a touchdown. Cousins’ short pitch to B.J. Cunningham was picked off by Iowa safety, Tyler Sash. Sash scrambled for six yards before relaying the ball to Hyde. The Hawkeye cornerback ran with a sense of purpose to the end zone as Iowa took advantage of the MSU turnover.
Shaun Prater intercepted another Cousins pass during the second quarter. Prater hustled to the Spartans’ 43 yard line, and three plays later the Hawkeyes were in the end zone again. Adam Robinson hauled in Stanzi’s 32 yard pass to put Iowa on top by 23 points. Robinson rushed for 69 yards in the win, including a third quarter touchdown from two yards out. Iowa kept pouring on the points after the half. Stanzi found an open Marvin McNutt for a 22 yard Iowa score to cap the third quarter. The Hawkeyes racked up 37 points before Mark Dantonio’s dismal squad even recorded one. But it would not be a shutout in Iowa City. The Spartans finally cracked the scoreboard early in the fourth quarter. Cousins hooked up with Cunningham after an 8 play drive to make it 37-6 in favor of the Kirk Ferentz’s team. Iowa held the Spartans to 31 yards passing and Cousins finished with 21-for-29before being replaced by Andrew Maxwell.
Parting Points: Another Buckeyes beatdown—this time against the hapless Minnesota Gophers.
It’s great to see the Texas Rangers finally making it a series with the Giants.
So, Alex Ovechkin scored two power play goals in 12 seconds. Is this really that surprising? He’s the most dangerous player in the NHL.
Happy Halloween!
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Power at the Park
Cliff Lee looked more out of place than like an ace last night in the opening game of the World Series. The Rangers’ stellar starter was battered by the Bay in Texas’ 11-7 drubbing by the Giants. San Francisco handed Lee his first career post-season loss as they attacked the lefty for six earned runs. Texas gave Lee a 2-0 lead early, but the Giants soon swung things in their favor to take game one at AT&T Park.
Freddy Sanchez doubled before Cody Ross and Aubrey Huff hammered two-out singles in the six run fifth frame to break a 2-2 tie and chase Lee from the game. Tim Lincecum pitched well after a shaky start for the Giants. The San Francisco starter botched a rundown in the first inning and was tagged for a run on a Vlad Guerrero base hit off his shin. The Rangers tallied a second run in the second off Lincecum on Elvis Andrus’ sacrifice fly, but the Giants forged a comeback in the third to tie the game. Michael Young booted a third base grounder by Edgar Renteria to begin the frame. Andres Torres was hit by a pitch following the error and Sanchez lined a double to put the NL champions on board. Buster Posey’s game tying single followed.
The Rangers committed four errors during the sloppy contest, including a one by Andrus in the bottom of the fifth as the Giant bats came alive. It was the biggest post-season inning for San Francisco since the 1937 World Series. Pat Burrell was the only hitter who did not record a hit for the home team. Lee fanned seven but the Giants were able to knock the ace around for eight hits. San Francisco also succeeded in keeping ALCS MVP, Josh Hamilton, hitless in four trips to the plate. Sanchez keyed San Francisco with four hits and contributed three RBIs. The powerful slugger stroked three doubles to set a World Series record. Huff accounted for three hits and a stolen base, and Juan Uribe added a solo homerun as the impressive Giants defeated the resolute Rangers.
Lincecum went 5 2/3 innings despite giving off little semblance of stardom to earn the win. He was effective enough and at one point retired 13 of 14 batters he faced. Lincecum left the game with an 8-4 advantage. Bruce Bochy used a harvest of relievers to retire the Rangers in the final four frames. Texas collected two runs in the sixth and three in the ninth to keep the score respectable. The Giants weren’t perfect on defense, committing three errors of their own. But the offense executed when it needed to, and the bullpen shut the door on a high scoring affair. The Giants send Matt Cain to the mound to oppose southpaw, C.J. Wilson in game two tonight in San Francisco.
Parting Points: Joe Girardi and the Yanks agreed on a three year contract.
Freddy Sanchez doubled before Cody Ross and Aubrey Huff hammered two-out singles in the six run fifth frame to break a 2-2 tie and chase Lee from the game. Tim Lincecum pitched well after a shaky start for the Giants. The San Francisco starter botched a rundown in the first inning and was tagged for a run on a Vlad Guerrero base hit off his shin. The Rangers tallied a second run in the second off Lincecum on Elvis Andrus’ sacrifice fly, but the Giants forged a comeback in the third to tie the game. Michael Young booted a third base grounder by Edgar Renteria to begin the frame. Andres Torres was hit by a pitch following the error and Sanchez lined a double to put the NL champions on board. Buster Posey’s game tying single followed.
The Rangers committed four errors during the sloppy contest, including a one by Andrus in the bottom of the fifth as the Giant bats came alive. It was the biggest post-season inning for San Francisco since the 1937 World Series. Pat Burrell was the only hitter who did not record a hit for the home team. Lee fanned seven but the Giants were able to knock the ace around for eight hits. San Francisco also succeeded in keeping ALCS MVP, Josh Hamilton, hitless in four trips to the plate. Sanchez keyed San Francisco with four hits and contributed three RBIs. The powerful slugger stroked three doubles to set a World Series record. Huff accounted for three hits and a stolen base, and Juan Uribe added a solo homerun as the impressive Giants defeated the resolute Rangers.
Lincecum went 5 2/3 innings despite giving off little semblance of stardom to earn the win. He was effective enough and at one point retired 13 of 14 batters he faced. Lincecum left the game with an 8-4 advantage. Bruce Bochy used a harvest of relievers to retire the Rangers in the final four frames. Texas collected two runs in the sixth and three in the ninth to keep the score respectable. The Giants weren’t perfect on defense, committing three errors of their own. But the offense executed when it needed to, and the bullpen shut the door on a high scoring affair. The Giants send Matt Cain to the mound to oppose southpaw, C.J. Wilson in game two tonight in San Francisco.
Parting Points: Joe Girardi and the Yanks agreed on a three year contract.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
San Francisco Snags Series in Sixth
San Francisco is back in the World Series for the first time since 2002. The pitching-rich Giants topped the Philadelphia Phillies in game six last night 3-2 to win the National League Championship. San Francisco hosts the Rangers next Wednesday in game one of the World Series. The Giants are looking for their first world title since moving to the Bay Area. Philadelphia failed in their bid to become the first senior circuit team in 66 years to win three consecutive pennants. The Giants earned their 19th pennant in franchise history. Juan Uribe’s eighth inning homerun off Ryan Madson broke a 2-2 tie and the visiting Giants held on to become unlikely winners of the series.
The Phillies drew first blood in game six with a three hit first inning. San Francisco starter, Jonathan Sanchez, was pulled after two-plus innings. Sanchez walked Placido Polanco in the first inning and the speedy Philly advanced to second on a wild pitch. Chase Utley’s right field double send Polanco home before Jayson Werth made it a 2-0 Philadelphia edge later in the inning. Werth’s sacrifice fly scored Utley from third base to put the Giants in an early hole.
San Francisco scored a run in the third off 33 year old starter, Roy Oswalt. Oswalt yielded nine hits in six innings for the Phillies. He allowed back-to-back singles in the third and a sacrifice by Freddy Sanchez that put runners and second and third for the Giants. Aubrey Huff singled in one run before scoring himself on Polanco’s error at third base. The game remained tied even as Sanchez struggled on the mound. The Giants’ pitcher tossed six straight balls to begin the bottom of the third and then hit Utley in the back. Both benches and bullpens cleared during an altercation between pitcher and batter after the All-Star second baseman Utley flipped the ball back in Sanchez’s direction. No punches were thrown and nobody was ejected. The Giants managed to get out of the inning when Jeremy Affeldt buzzed through the Phillies’ order. Affeldt stayed perfect through the fourth and Madison Bumgardner took over in relief with similar success.
Madson relieved Oswalt beginning in the seventh. He fanned the first two Giants he faced before allowing a double by Freddy Sanchez. The Phillies escaped the inning but couldn’t do anything at the plate in their own half of the frame. Javier Lopez was solid in setting the defending NL champs down in order. In the eighth, Uribe pounced on Madson’s first pitch slider and the Giants were closer to bouncing the Phillies from contention. It was Uribe’s first long ball of the post-season but will forever be regarded as the one that sent the Giants to the 2010 Fall Classic. San Francisco’s Brian Wilson, who led the majors in saves this season, needed a line drive double play to end the bottom of the eighth. Wilson worked around two walks in the ninth before fanning struggling slugger, Ryan Howard, to end the game.
Parting Points: Mizzouri topped Oklahoma. Who will be number one in the BCS this week? My guess is Oregon.
The Devils benched Ilya Kovalchuk for undisclosed reasons. I already dislike John MacLean.
I’m so excited for the Sharapova-Vujacic engagement announcement. I think they should take Maria’s last name because Sasha Sharapova sounds terrific (and it’s alliteration)
Song of the day- “1983” by Neon Trees
The Phillies drew first blood in game six with a three hit first inning. San Francisco starter, Jonathan Sanchez, was pulled after two-plus innings. Sanchez walked Placido Polanco in the first inning and the speedy Philly advanced to second on a wild pitch. Chase Utley’s right field double send Polanco home before Jayson Werth made it a 2-0 Philadelphia edge later in the inning. Werth’s sacrifice fly scored Utley from third base to put the Giants in an early hole.
San Francisco scored a run in the third off 33 year old starter, Roy Oswalt. Oswalt yielded nine hits in six innings for the Phillies. He allowed back-to-back singles in the third and a sacrifice by Freddy Sanchez that put runners and second and third for the Giants. Aubrey Huff singled in one run before scoring himself on Polanco’s error at third base. The game remained tied even as Sanchez struggled on the mound. The Giants’ pitcher tossed six straight balls to begin the bottom of the third and then hit Utley in the back. Both benches and bullpens cleared during an altercation between pitcher and batter after the All-Star second baseman Utley flipped the ball back in Sanchez’s direction. No punches were thrown and nobody was ejected. The Giants managed to get out of the inning when Jeremy Affeldt buzzed through the Phillies’ order. Affeldt stayed perfect through the fourth and Madison Bumgardner took over in relief with similar success.
Madson relieved Oswalt beginning in the seventh. He fanned the first two Giants he faced before allowing a double by Freddy Sanchez. The Phillies escaped the inning but couldn’t do anything at the plate in their own half of the frame. Javier Lopez was solid in setting the defending NL champs down in order. In the eighth, Uribe pounced on Madson’s first pitch slider and the Giants were closer to bouncing the Phillies from contention. It was Uribe’s first long ball of the post-season but will forever be regarded as the one that sent the Giants to the 2010 Fall Classic. San Francisco’s Brian Wilson, who led the majors in saves this season, needed a line drive double play to end the bottom of the eighth. Wilson worked around two walks in the ninth before fanning struggling slugger, Ryan Howard, to end the game.
Parting Points: Mizzouri topped Oklahoma. Who will be number one in the BCS this week? My guess is Oregon.
The Devils benched Ilya Kovalchuk for undisclosed reasons. I already dislike John MacLean.
I’m so excited for the Sharapova-Vujacic engagement announcement. I think they should take Maria’s last name because Sasha Sharapova sounds terrific (and it’s alliteration)
Song of the day- “1983” by Neon Trees
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Blasé Bombers Beaten
Here’s a little irony: Former Texas slugger, Alex Rodriguez, struck out to end game six of the ALCS, sending the Rangers to their first ever World Series. Rodriguez was fanned by Neftali Feliz to seal the Rangers’ 6-1 victory over the defending champion New York Yankees. Texas begins their quest for a franchise-first title on Wednesday. They face the winner of the Philadelphia-San Francisco series. For New York and All-Star Rodriguez, it’s time to head home without back-to-back championships.
Yankees’ hurler, Phil Hughes, was charged with four runs in four 2/3 innings to take the loss. The beating started early for New York. Texas scored in the bottom of the first after Elvis Andrus led off with a double. ALCS MVP, Josh Hamilton, lined a single to left to advance the runner to third. Andrus came around to score on Vlad Guerrero’s infield groundout to put the Rangers up in the early going. Colby Lewis stunned New York’s offense, keeping the Yankees scoreless through four frames. Lewis spun a perfect second and third frame, and limited the defending champions to just three hits in eight innings. His only blemish was a fifth inning wild pitch that resulted in Rodriguez’s tally.
Hughes settled down to work around a couple base runners to keep it a one run game. He was blasted in the fifth. Mitch Moreland’s infield single was followed by a pair of groundouts. Hughes elected to issue an intentional pass to Hamilton with Moreland pacing the third base line, hungry to score. Guerrero stepped to the plate with two on and two outs, and promptly drove Hughes’ curveball to deep center. The outfielder’s two-run double signaled the end to Hughes’ evening. Dave Robertson replaced the rocked starter but didn’t offer any solace for the Yankees. Robertson allowed an inside fastball to Nelson Cruz to clear the centerfield wall. The Rangers were up 5-1 just like that.
Texas would add to their four run lead in the seventh, while the Yankees inept swings continued to plague the team. New York never threatened the rest of the game and were victims to nine strikeouts. Lance Berkman’s two out triple in the seventh was a mere waste after the first baseman was stranded in scoring position. Kerry Wood and Mariano Rivera were summoned from the bullpen down the stretch, but it was New York’s starting pitching and offense that failed them this series. Rodriguez froze on a slider from Cruz to end any hope of a game seven for the Yankees. Texas outscored the Bombers 21-6 during the six games they played. Now the World Series is coming to Texas.
Parting Points: I’m happy for Nolan Ryan. Great pitcher, and deserving of seeing his team in the Fall Classic. Too bad it had to be at the Yankees’ expense. I’m also happy for ten-year Ranger, Michael Young. He seems like a great guy on and off the field.
In the words of Jakob Dylan- “Nothing is forever”
Yankees’ hurler, Phil Hughes, was charged with four runs in four 2/3 innings to take the loss. The beating started early for New York. Texas scored in the bottom of the first after Elvis Andrus led off with a double. ALCS MVP, Josh Hamilton, lined a single to left to advance the runner to third. Andrus came around to score on Vlad Guerrero’s infield groundout to put the Rangers up in the early going. Colby Lewis stunned New York’s offense, keeping the Yankees scoreless through four frames. Lewis spun a perfect second and third frame, and limited the defending champions to just three hits in eight innings. His only blemish was a fifth inning wild pitch that resulted in Rodriguez’s tally.
Hughes settled down to work around a couple base runners to keep it a one run game. He was blasted in the fifth. Mitch Moreland’s infield single was followed by a pair of groundouts. Hughes elected to issue an intentional pass to Hamilton with Moreland pacing the third base line, hungry to score. Guerrero stepped to the plate with two on and two outs, and promptly drove Hughes’ curveball to deep center. The outfielder’s two-run double signaled the end to Hughes’ evening. Dave Robertson replaced the rocked starter but didn’t offer any solace for the Yankees. Robertson allowed an inside fastball to Nelson Cruz to clear the centerfield wall. The Rangers were up 5-1 just like that.
Texas would add to their four run lead in the seventh, while the Yankees inept swings continued to plague the team. New York never threatened the rest of the game and were victims to nine strikeouts. Lance Berkman’s two out triple in the seventh was a mere waste after the first baseman was stranded in scoring position. Kerry Wood and Mariano Rivera were summoned from the bullpen down the stretch, but it was New York’s starting pitching and offense that failed them this series. Rodriguez froze on a slider from Cruz to end any hope of a game seven for the Yankees. Texas outscored the Bombers 21-6 during the six games they played. Now the World Series is coming to Texas.
Parting Points: I’m happy for Nolan Ryan. Great pitcher, and deserving of seeing his team in the Fall Classic. Too bad it had to be at the Yankees’ expense. I’m also happy for ten-year Ranger, Michael Young. He seems like a great guy on and off the field.
In the words of Jakob Dylan- “Nothing is forever”
Friday, October 22, 2010
Fiery Phils Follow Flub with Fight
The Philadelphia Phillies forced a game six in the NLCS after climbing out to an early lead and holding on against the hometown Giants. The defending NL champions defeated San Francisco 4-2 in a pitching rematch between game one starters, Roy Halladay and Tim Lincecum. The Phillies escaped McCovey Cove by stealing a win from the Giants and ace Lincecum. The San Francisco hurler tossed seven innings of two run ball, but his defense arguably cost him the win in the third inning. Halladay was stellar in his second start of the NLCS, battling through six innings to keep the Phillies’ season alive. The Giants still have the edge 3-2 as the series heads back to the city of brotherly love.
The Giants scored first Thursday night, picking up a run in the first inning on Buster Posey’s fielder’s choice. In the top of the third, San Francisco’s infield handed the Phillies a 3-1 lead. Had it not been for the Giant giveaways, perhaps San Francisco would be headed to the World Series. But the home team’s sloppy defense and miscues gave the Phillies the drive they needed to kill the Giants’ momentum. Raul Ibanez singled off Lincecum and Carlos Ruiz was hit by an inside fastball to begin the frame. A questionable Halladay sacrifice bunt advanced the runners to second and third for outfield slugger, Shane Victorino. The vicious Victorino was ruled safe at second on an error by Giants’ first baseman, Aubrey Huff. The ball bounced off Huff’s glove and skirted into the outfield to score a pair of runs. Victorino scored on a base hit by second baseman, Chase Utley, five pitches later.
San Francisco got one run back in the fourth. Back-to-back doubles by Pat Burrell and Cody Ross resulted in the Giants’ second tally of the game. Philadelphia got out of the jam by throwing out Ross, who tested Jayson Werth’s arm while attempting to tag up on Pablo Sandoval’s fly ball to right field. Halladay buckled down the rest of the game to keep the Giants off the scoreboard and the Phillies’ one run advantage intact. Philadelphia added an insurance run on Werth’s ninth inning homerun off Ramon Ramirez. Closer, Brad Lidge, was called upon to shut down the Giants in the bottom of the ninth. Lidge earned the three out save with just ten pitches. Lincecum suffered the loss for San Francisco, despite striking out seven batters.
Parting Points: Song for Friday- “I Alone” by Live
The Giants scored first Thursday night, picking up a run in the first inning on Buster Posey’s fielder’s choice. In the top of the third, San Francisco’s infield handed the Phillies a 3-1 lead. Had it not been for the Giant giveaways, perhaps San Francisco would be headed to the World Series. But the home team’s sloppy defense and miscues gave the Phillies the drive they needed to kill the Giants’ momentum. Raul Ibanez singled off Lincecum and Carlos Ruiz was hit by an inside fastball to begin the frame. A questionable Halladay sacrifice bunt advanced the runners to second and third for outfield slugger, Shane Victorino. The vicious Victorino was ruled safe at second on an error by Giants’ first baseman, Aubrey Huff. The ball bounced off Huff’s glove and skirted into the outfield to score a pair of runs. Victorino scored on a base hit by second baseman, Chase Utley, five pitches later.
San Francisco got one run back in the fourth. Back-to-back doubles by Pat Burrell and Cody Ross resulted in the Giants’ second tally of the game. Philadelphia got out of the jam by throwing out Ross, who tested Jayson Werth’s arm while attempting to tag up on Pablo Sandoval’s fly ball to right field. Halladay buckled down the rest of the game to keep the Giants off the scoreboard and the Phillies’ one run advantage intact. Philadelphia added an insurance run on Werth’s ninth inning homerun off Ramon Ramirez. Closer, Brad Lidge, was called upon to shut down the Giants in the bottom of the ninth. Lidge earned the three out save with just ten pitches. Lincecum suffered the loss for San Francisco, despite striking out seven batters.
Parting Points: Song for Friday- “I Alone” by Live
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Texas Trounce 'Em
The Bombers are on the brink of elimination. The defending world champion Yankees find themselves in grim position after losing game four of the ALCS to the Rangers last night at the stadium in the Bronx. The Yankees lost 10-3 and now face a must-win situation for the rest of the series. Texas grabbed a 3-1 lead in the seven game set and has the added advantage of throwing Cliff Lee should there be a game seven in Arlington. The Bombers, meanwhile, are just hoping the series goes back to Texas. Not only was New York defeated for the third straight game and second at home, but they also lost All-Star first baseman, Mark Teixeira for the remainder of the playoffs. The powerful switch-hitting slugger suffered a strained hamstring in the fifth inning on Tuesday.
Notoriously shaky starter, A.J. Burnett, turned in a decent performance for the pinstripes through six innings. He retired the first six batters he faced and looked sharp going perfect through two innings. Burnett was pitching on 17 days’ rest but held the Texas offense in check through the initial frames. The Yankees didn’t exactly help their struggling starter by lighting up the scoreboard. New York managed a measly three runs on seven hits against Texas pitching. Robinson Cano, seemingly the only Bomber who can actually blast bombs, belted a solo homerun in the second innings off Tommy Hunter. The Rangers got the run back in the top of the third, and tacked on another tally off the wild Burnett. Burnett’s wild pitch was followed by a hit batter to put runners at first and second for Elvis Andrus. The leadoff shortstop’s stroked an RBI grounder to first to tie the game. Michael Young’s infield single made it 2-1 Texas.
The Yankees got one run lead back in the bottom of the third. Curtis Granderson knocked in a run with a two-out single off Hunter. Brett Gardner’s grounder scored Alex Rodriguez to give the home team a 3-2 advantage in the fourth. Burnett preserved the lead in the fourth escaped a fifth frame jam before allowing the Rangers to take the lead for good on Molina’s sixth inning homerun. Texas’s three spot was followed by an annihilation of the Bombers’ bullpen the rest of the contest. The Rangers tacked on a pair of runs in the seventh on MVP-candidate, Josh Hamilton’s long ball. Hamilton homered off Boone Logan for a 6-3 Texas lead. Yankee reliever, Joba Chamberlain yielded a Vlad Guerrero double and walked Nelson Cruz on four pitches before Ian Kinsler’s RBI base hit.
Derek Holland gave Texas 3 2/3 innings of relief to earn the win. In the ninth, the Rangers continued to feast off the Yankee bullpen to win in convincing fashion. Hamilton hammered his second homerun off Sergio Mitre to lead off the frame. Cruz added a solo shot after driving a 0-2 offering from the 29 year old reliever. Former Bomber, Darren Oliver, closed out the game in the bottom of the ninth for visiting Texas. Oliver had little trouble in retiring the Yankees in order to wrap up the victory. The Yankees’ chances of winning three consecutive decisions is slight. They will have to do so without their first baseman. Eduardo Nunez is expected to replace Teixeira. Game five is today at 4pm. Yankee ace, C.C. Sabathia opposes Texas’ C.J. Wilson in a rematch of game one. If the wildcard-winning Yanks are going to return to the Fall Classic, they’ll have to do it on the road in seven games.
Parting Points: Will Melo be traded?
Lance Berkman is playing first base this afternoon for the Yanks.
Notoriously shaky starter, A.J. Burnett, turned in a decent performance for the pinstripes through six innings. He retired the first six batters he faced and looked sharp going perfect through two innings. Burnett was pitching on 17 days’ rest but held the Texas offense in check through the initial frames. The Yankees didn’t exactly help their struggling starter by lighting up the scoreboard. New York managed a measly three runs on seven hits against Texas pitching. Robinson Cano, seemingly the only Bomber who can actually blast bombs, belted a solo homerun in the second innings off Tommy Hunter. The Rangers got the run back in the top of the third, and tacked on another tally off the wild Burnett. Burnett’s wild pitch was followed by a hit batter to put runners at first and second for Elvis Andrus. The leadoff shortstop’s stroked an RBI grounder to first to tie the game. Michael Young’s infield single made it 2-1 Texas.
The Yankees got one run lead back in the bottom of the third. Curtis Granderson knocked in a run with a two-out single off Hunter. Brett Gardner’s grounder scored Alex Rodriguez to give the home team a 3-2 advantage in the fourth. Burnett preserved the lead in the fourth escaped a fifth frame jam before allowing the Rangers to take the lead for good on Molina’s sixth inning homerun. Texas’s three spot was followed by an annihilation of the Bombers’ bullpen the rest of the contest. The Rangers tacked on a pair of runs in the seventh on MVP-candidate, Josh Hamilton’s long ball. Hamilton homered off Boone Logan for a 6-3 Texas lead. Yankee reliever, Joba Chamberlain yielded a Vlad Guerrero double and walked Nelson Cruz on four pitches before Ian Kinsler’s RBI base hit.
Derek Holland gave Texas 3 2/3 innings of relief to earn the win. In the ninth, the Rangers continued to feast off the Yankee bullpen to win in convincing fashion. Hamilton hammered his second homerun off Sergio Mitre to lead off the frame. Cruz added a solo shot after driving a 0-2 offering from the 29 year old reliever. Former Bomber, Darren Oliver, closed out the game in the bottom of the ninth for visiting Texas. Oliver had little trouble in retiring the Yankees in order to wrap up the victory. The Yankees’ chances of winning three consecutive decisions is slight. They will have to do so without their first baseman. Eduardo Nunez is expected to replace Teixeira. Game five is today at 4pm. Yankee ace, C.C. Sabathia opposes Texas’ C.J. Wilson in a rematch of game one. If the wildcard-winning Yanks are going to return to the Fall Classic, they’ll have to do it on the road in seven games.
Parting Points: Will Melo be traded?
Lance Berkman is playing first base this afternoon for the Yanks.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Lincoln Logs Loss
Legs Lift Longhorns at Lincoln
There were a few upsets in college football on Saturday. Notably, Nebraska fell 20-13 to unranked Texas at Memorial Stadium. Heisman hyped quarterback, Taylor Martinez and the number five Cornhuskers had 94 penalty yards and couldn’t stop the Texas rush in their bid to go 6-0 for the first time since 2001. The Longhorns were led by sophomore, Garrett Gilbert. Gilbert’s dazzling display behind center accounted for two rushing touchdowns as the visitors took a 17-3 advantage into the intermission. Garrett finished with 62 yards through the air and scampered for 71 more. Mack Brown’s Longhorns snapped a three game losing streak and improved to 4-2 overall in a rematch of last season’s Big 12 championship.
Justin Tucker’s 27 yard field goal five minutes into the first quarter put Texas on the board. The hosts couldn’t garner a first down on their first possession and fumbled the ball away on their second. Texas took full advantage of the Husker miscues. The Longhorns attacked with the run, unleashing their lanky quarterback to set up the first touchdown of the game. Gilbert raced three yards on the fifth play of a 21 yard drive to give the Longhorns a 10-0 lead midway through the opening quarter. The visitors’ dialed-up defense demolished the high octane, ambivalent Husker offense.
The Huskers scored early in the second quarter on Alex Henery’s 45 yard field goal, but the punted away their final two possessions of the quarter. The Longhorns’ defense smothered the mobile Martinez by employing two defenders on the freshman sensation. Martinez completed just 4-of-12 passes and was pulled from the game after rushing for a mere 21 yards. Texas’ passing game was nonexistent, but Gilbert did convert a crucial third down pass to set up a one yard touchdown run before the half. Gilbert found junior running back, Foswhitt Whittaker, for a 41 yard grab to extend the drive.
Tucker booted a second field goal to open the third quarter scoring and pad the visitor’s lead to 20-3. Nebraska, with Zac Lee replacing Martinez, managed a field goal late in the third to cut the deficit to two scores. Texas chewed up over three minutes of the clock and the Longhorn defense stopped Nebraska on fourth down with seven minutes to play. Eric Haag broke a school record with a 95 yard punt return for a touchdown. It was the Huskers’ only touchdown of the game and it occurred with 3:02 remaining in the contest. Texas recovered a key onside kick and were aided by a Nebraska penalty to snag a fresh set of downs. The nine point underdog Longhorns ran out the clock on a game they were never expected to win. Nebraska’s offense was held to 202 yards and Martinez was outrushed by Gilbert by 50 yards. You could argue Brown’s team beat the Huskers at their own game on Saturday.
Parting Points: Terrible day yesterday for this sports fan. First, the Yankees’ atrocious pitching continued as Phil Hughes was shelled in Texas. The Yankees couldn’t overcome a five run deficit for the second time in less than 24 hours. Then, the real heartache came after the Badgers from Wisconsin knocked out number one, Ohio State, in Madison. Bummer. Ever hear of a pass rush, Buckeyes?
There were a few upsets in college football on Saturday. Notably, Nebraska fell 20-13 to unranked Texas at Memorial Stadium. Heisman hyped quarterback, Taylor Martinez and the number five Cornhuskers had 94 penalty yards and couldn’t stop the Texas rush in their bid to go 6-0 for the first time since 2001. The Longhorns were led by sophomore, Garrett Gilbert. Gilbert’s dazzling display behind center accounted for two rushing touchdowns as the visitors took a 17-3 advantage into the intermission. Garrett finished with 62 yards through the air and scampered for 71 more. Mack Brown’s Longhorns snapped a three game losing streak and improved to 4-2 overall in a rematch of last season’s Big 12 championship.
Justin Tucker’s 27 yard field goal five minutes into the first quarter put Texas on the board. The hosts couldn’t garner a first down on their first possession and fumbled the ball away on their second. Texas took full advantage of the Husker miscues. The Longhorns attacked with the run, unleashing their lanky quarterback to set up the first touchdown of the game. Gilbert raced three yards on the fifth play of a 21 yard drive to give the Longhorns a 10-0 lead midway through the opening quarter. The visitors’ dialed-up defense demolished the high octane, ambivalent Husker offense.
The Huskers scored early in the second quarter on Alex Henery’s 45 yard field goal, but the punted away their final two possessions of the quarter. The Longhorns’ defense smothered the mobile Martinez by employing two defenders on the freshman sensation. Martinez completed just 4-of-12 passes and was pulled from the game after rushing for a mere 21 yards. Texas’ passing game was nonexistent, but Gilbert did convert a crucial third down pass to set up a one yard touchdown run before the half. Gilbert found junior running back, Foswhitt Whittaker, for a 41 yard grab to extend the drive.
Tucker booted a second field goal to open the third quarter scoring and pad the visitor’s lead to 20-3. Nebraska, with Zac Lee replacing Martinez, managed a field goal late in the third to cut the deficit to two scores. Texas chewed up over three minutes of the clock and the Longhorn defense stopped Nebraska on fourth down with seven minutes to play. Eric Haag broke a school record with a 95 yard punt return for a touchdown. It was the Huskers’ only touchdown of the game and it occurred with 3:02 remaining in the contest. Texas recovered a key onside kick and were aided by a Nebraska penalty to snag a fresh set of downs. The nine point underdog Longhorns ran out the clock on a game they were never expected to win. Nebraska’s offense was held to 202 yards and Martinez was outrushed by Gilbert by 50 yards. You could argue Brown’s team beat the Huskers at their own game on Saturday.
Parting Points: Terrible day yesterday for this sports fan. First, the Yankees’ atrocious pitching continued as Phil Hughes was shelled in Texas. The Yankees couldn’t overcome a five run deficit for the second time in less than 24 hours. Then, the real heartache came after the Badgers from Wisconsin knocked out number one, Ohio State, in Madison. Bummer. Ever hear of a pass rush, Buckeyes?
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Crazy Comeback
It was an ALCS game one comeback no one will soon forget. Never underestimate the New York Yankees. The Bombers clipped the Texas Rangers 6-5 in Arlington on Friday night in the opening game of the ALCS. New York trailed 5-1 through seven innings before rallying in the eighth to take a one run advantage and a 1-0 lead in the seven game series.
C.C. Sabathia struggled mightily pitching on eight days’ rest. Texas bashed the lefty around in the first innings for three runs on three hits. The Rangers batted around and would have extended their remarkable first frame had it not been for a terrific tag at the plate by Sabathia. After tossing a wild pitch, Sabathia made an athletic play to nail a sliding Nelson Cruz for the inning’s final out. Josh Hamilton pounded a three run homerun to give the home team a 3-0 advantage in the first. The Rangers added a pair of runs in the third to jump off to a 5-0 edge against the defending champions. Michael Young’s opposite field double was drilled to right-center to expand the Texas lead.
C.J. Wilson pitched a gem through the early innings for Texas. Wilson did not allow a run as the sluggish Yankee offense was turned away at the plate. The Texas hurler worked out of several jams and looked in good position to earn the post-season victory after cruising through seven. But the Bombers were determined to drive the ball and overcome Sabathia's bleak beginning. Sabathia was pulled after just four frames and 93 pitches. He was replaced by Joba Chamberlain. Chamberlain succeeded in preventing the game from getting any worse. Dustin Moseley was brought in during the sixth and seventh as the middle relievers combined for three scoreless innings.
New York finally put up a run in the top of the seventh. Second base All-Star, Robinson Cano, hammered a 1-1 offering to right for a homerun. In the eighth, things started to unravel for the Rangers as the Yankees sparked a come-from-behind rally in Texas. Wilson was knocked out of the game after allowing Derek Jeter’s run-scoring double. It was the third earned run by the Texas tosser, but the Rangers’ lead was still intact. Darren Oliver, former Yankee reliever, took over for Wilson. The southpaw slinger loaded the bases by walking the only two batters he faced before manager, Ron Washington, pulled him too. Side-arming right-hander, Darren O’Day, was summoned from the bullpen to face Alex Rodriguez. Rodriguez ripped O’Day’s first pitch down the third base line for a two-run single. And just like that, the Rangers’ lead was narrowed to 5-4. Cano plated the tying run off Clay Rapada and ARod advanced to third on Hamilton’s error to set up the go-ahead tally. Rapada was replaced by young lefty, Derek Holland as Texas’ fifth pitcher of the frame. Holland failed to record an out before yielding a broken bat single by Marcus Thames that drove in Arod. Hollad retired the next three Yankees but the Bombers’ damage was already done. Cano led all hitters with three hits and two RBIs as New York spoiled Wilson’s seven serviceable innings.
Kerry Wood and Mariano Rivera sealed the Yankee win with two scoreless innings. Wood worked around a leadoff walk in the eight and Rivera dusted off a base hit to strand the Texas base runners and earn the save. Mosley was credited with the win in front of the sellout crowd Friday. Moseley tossed two innings of middle relief and struck out four. Game two pits Colby Lewis against New York’s 18-game winner, Phil Hughes.
Parting Points: What a game last night. It reminded me a bit of the 2003 ALCS, but without the Aaron Boone walk off homer. This is why you never count out the Yanks, and why baseball is still the best game ever.
Buckeyes-Badgers today. Big road test for the Buckeyes.
Song of the day- “Love Song for No One” by John Mayer
“You wanted something beautiful…you wished for something true”- Foo Fighters
C.C. Sabathia struggled mightily pitching on eight days’ rest. Texas bashed the lefty around in the first innings for three runs on three hits. The Rangers batted around and would have extended their remarkable first frame had it not been for a terrific tag at the plate by Sabathia. After tossing a wild pitch, Sabathia made an athletic play to nail a sliding Nelson Cruz for the inning’s final out. Josh Hamilton pounded a three run homerun to give the home team a 3-0 advantage in the first. The Rangers added a pair of runs in the third to jump off to a 5-0 edge against the defending champions. Michael Young’s opposite field double was drilled to right-center to expand the Texas lead.
C.J. Wilson pitched a gem through the early innings for Texas. Wilson did not allow a run as the sluggish Yankee offense was turned away at the plate. The Texas hurler worked out of several jams and looked in good position to earn the post-season victory after cruising through seven. But the Bombers were determined to drive the ball and overcome Sabathia's bleak beginning. Sabathia was pulled after just four frames and 93 pitches. He was replaced by Joba Chamberlain. Chamberlain succeeded in preventing the game from getting any worse. Dustin Moseley was brought in during the sixth and seventh as the middle relievers combined for three scoreless innings.
New York finally put up a run in the top of the seventh. Second base All-Star, Robinson Cano, hammered a 1-1 offering to right for a homerun. In the eighth, things started to unravel for the Rangers as the Yankees sparked a come-from-behind rally in Texas. Wilson was knocked out of the game after allowing Derek Jeter’s run-scoring double. It was the third earned run by the Texas tosser, but the Rangers’ lead was still intact. Darren Oliver, former Yankee reliever, took over for Wilson. The southpaw slinger loaded the bases by walking the only two batters he faced before manager, Ron Washington, pulled him too. Side-arming right-hander, Darren O’Day, was summoned from the bullpen to face Alex Rodriguez. Rodriguez ripped O’Day’s first pitch down the third base line for a two-run single. And just like that, the Rangers’ lead was narrowed to 5-4. Cano plated the tying run off Clay Rapada and ARod advanced to third on Hamilton’s error to set up the go-ahead tally. Rapada was replaced by young lefty, Derek Holland as Texas’ fifth pitcher of the frame. Holland failed to record an out before yielding a broken bat single by Marcus Thames that drove in Arod. Hollad retired the next three Yankees but the Bombers’ damage was already done. Cano led all hitters with three hits and two RBIs as New York spoiled Wilson’s seven serviceable innings.
Kerry Wood and Mariano Rivera sealed the Yankee win with two scoreless innings. Wood worked around a leadoff walk in the eight and Rivera dusted off a base hit to strand the Texas base runners and earn the save. Mosley was credited with the win in front of the sellout crowd Friday. Moseley tossed two innings of middle relief and struck out four. Game two pits Colby Lewis against New York’s 18-game winner, Phil Hughes.
Parting Points: What a game last night. It reminded me a bit of the 2003 ALCS, but without the Aaron Boone walk off homer. This is why you never count out the Yanks, and why baseball is still the best game ever.
Buckeyes-Badgers today. Big road test for the Buckeyes.
Song of the day- “Love Song for No One” by John Mayer
“You wanted something beautiful…you wished for something true”- Foo Fighters
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Thursday Take-Twos (Entropy Edition)
I’m all over the place today…
Terrelle Pryor should most definitely be considered for the Heisman Trophy. The Ohio State quarterback went from a spastic slinging sophomore to an upstanding upperclassman. Pryor has been instrumental in paving the way for the Buckeyes’ number one ranking this season. His ability to scramble in the pocket and composure behind center are pivotal to Ohio State’s success. If the junior signal caller beats Wisconsin in Badger nation this Saturday, he should be the front-running Heisman candidate. Granted, Ohio State’s schedule prior to this weekend hasn’t been the most demanding slate in college football. But the Buckeyes are still winning all their games. I don’t side with those who say Pryor still has plenty to prove. He is already establishing himself as one of the game’s best quarterbacks. Pryor ranks sixth in passer efficiency and his dangerous legs are enough to diminish any defense in the Big 10. Pryor has matured into a legitimate and flourishing football player. He will be tested at Camp Randall this Saturday, where is reputation as a 19 year old rookie began. Pryor stole the show in a three point OSU victory two years ago in Madison. Now number two is a high performing player ready to be challenged by the redemption-seeking Badgers.
Have you heard of Josh Luchs? Well, you should pick up a copy of the latest Sports Illustrated. In the article, Luchs contends he paid many professional players while they were college stars. Former sports agent, Luchs, represented over 60 professional players and was a dogged recruiter during his career. Now the Brooklyn native is confessing and admitting to paying thousands of players. Luchs is leaving the agent business after years of treating prospects to free meals, lavish gifts and showing them a good time. Luchs is coming clean in part to save his reputation. He doesn’t want his daughter to know her father as a cheater who broke NCAA rules. Santonio Holmes is named in the article, not for taking money from Luchs, but for accepting money from another agent. Holmes has denied the allegations he was compensated during college. Stories such as this get to me because it makes college football look bad. Holmes is a former Ohio State player. He’s been to the Superbowl with the Steelers, I don’t like seeing players I root for conveyed in this manner. It’s one thing for Holmes to be disrespected following a substance abuse violation (which he was earlier this year). But it’s another for players to be singled out (ie Reggie Bush) for a widespread problem. Whether or not the allegations are true, the university is not to blame. The NCAA has a duty to protect their student athletes. Players are responsible for their own actions, and coaches and team personnel need to be aware of the impact of sports agents. It’s becoming more and more apparent that the violations are problematic to the sport.
Yankee manager, Joe Girardi, celebrates a birthday today. Perhaps A.J. Burnett will give him a belated gift by actually being effective during the ALCS against the Texas Rangers. The series begins Friday night in Texas, with the home team coming off their first ever post-season series win. New York ace, C.C. Sabathia, opposes Texas’ C.J. Wilson in a battle of the initial first names. Girardi altered the rotation, going with Phil Hughes in game two. Andy Pettitte will throw game three in New York, which leaves the door open for him to pitch the deciding game seven, if necessary. Burnett threw a simulated game yesterday and hit two batters. Yankee fans have miniscule confidence in the former World Series hurler, but Girardi made the correct decision in tagging Burnett as the game four starter. If Burnett was left out of the rotation, the other starters would have to throw on short rest. In the post-season, that is a risk. Here’s hoping Burnett can pull himself together for a credible performance. Texas’ CY Young ace, Cliff Lee, will be a tough match for the Bomber offense. The Rangers are a hungry team right now, and they did sweep the Yankees in New York less than a month ago. I expect a competitive series but I like New York in five or six games.
Parting Points: “Have you ever loved somebody so much it makes you cry”- Brandy
Terrelle Pryor should most definitely be considered for the Heisman Trophy. The Ohio State quarterback went from a spastic slinging sophomore to an upstanding upperclassman. Pryor has been instrumental in paving the way for the Buckeyes’ number one ranking this season. His ability to scramble in the pocket and composure behind center are pivotal to Ohio State’s success. If the junior signal caller beats Wisconsin in Badger nation this Saturday, he should be the front-running Heisman candidate. Granted, Ohio State’s schedule prior to this weekend hasn’t been the most demanding slate in college football. But the Buckeyes are still winning all their games. I don’t side with those who say Pryor still has plenty to prove. He is already establishing himself as one of the game’s best quarterbacks. Pryor ranks sixth in passer efficiency and his dangerous legs are enough to diminish any defense in the Big 10. Pryor has matured into a legitimate and flourishing football player. He will be tested at Camp Randall this Saturday, where is reputation as a 19 year old rookie began. Pryor stole the show in a three point OSU victory two years ago in Madison. Now number two is a high performing player ready to be challenged by the redemption-seeking Badgers.
Have you heard of Josh Luchs? Well, you should pick up a copy of the latest Sports Illustrated. In the article, Luchs contends he paid many professional players while they were college stars. Former sports agent, Luchs, represented over 60 professional players and was a dogged recruiter during his career. Now the Brooklyn native is confessing and admitting to paying thousands of players. Luchs is leaving the agent business after years of treating prospects to free meals, lavish gifts and showing them a good time. Luchs is coming clean in part to save his reputation. He doesn’t want his daughter to know her father as a cheater who broke NCAA rules. Santonio Holmes is named in the article, not for taking money from Luchs, but for accepting money from another agent. Holmes has denied the allegations he was compensated during college. Stories such as this get to me because it makes college football look bad. Holmes is a former Ohio State player. He’s been to the Superbowl with the Steelers, I don’t like seeing players I root for conveyed in this manner. It’s one thing for Holmes to be disrespected following a substance abuse violation (which he was earlier this year). But it’s another for players to be singled out (ie Reggie Bush) for a widespread problem. Whether or not the allegations are true, the university is not to blame. The NCAA has a duty to protect their student athletes. Players are responsible for their own actions, and coaches and team personnel need to be aware of the impact of sports agents. It’s becoming more and more apparent that the violations are problematic to the sport.
Yankee manager, Joe Girardi, celebrates a birthday today. Perhaps A.J. Burnett will give him a belated gift by actually being effective during the ALCS against the Texas Rangers. The series begins Friday night in Texas, with the home team coming off their first ever post-season series win. New York ace, C.C. Sabathia, opposes Texas’ C.J. Wilson in a battle of the initial first names. Girardi altered the rotation, going with Phil Hughes in game two. Andy Pettitte will throw game three in New York, which leaves the door open for him to pitch the deciding game seven, if necessary. Burnett threw a simulated game yesterday and hit two batters. Yankee fans have miniscule confidence in the former World Series hurler, but Girardi made the correct decision in tagging Burnett as the game four starter. If Burnett was left out of the rotation, the other starters would have to throw on short rest. In the post-season, that is a risk. Here’s hoping Burnett can pull himself together for a credible performance. Texas’ CY Young ace, Cliff Lee, will be a tough match for the Bomber offense. The Rangers are a hungry team right now, and they did sweep the Yankees in New York less than a month ago. I expect a competitive series but I like New York in five or six games.
Parting Points: “Have you ever loved somebody so much it makes you cry”- Brandy
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Braves Bid Bobby (Good)Bye
The drought is over for the celebratory champions of the National League West. The Giants won their first playoff series in eight seasons Monday after defeating the Braves in Bobby Cox’s last game as Atlanta’s skipper. Cox announced he would be retiring at the end of the 2010 season earlier in the year. Last night, the manager was hoping his legacy would last another day in the best-of-five series with San Francisco. The series was tense right up until the final out. Every game of the NLDS was decided by one run, culminating with the Giants’ 3-2 victory in Game 4 at Turner Field. The Braves were plagued by miscues during the thrilling series and couldn’t find a way to beat some of the league’s best pitchers in the post-season.
Derek Lowe pitched hitless baseball for the Braves through six solid innings. Lowe was pitching on just three days’ rest but showed no signs of sluggishness. He destroyed San Francisco hitters, fanning eight total batters. Depleted with injuries to standout players, Atlanta was unable extend Cox’s career however. It was the West coast Giants that quieted a packed stadium on the East coast. The Giants did just enough to advance to face the Phillies in the conference championship. After trailing 1-0 in the sixth, San Francisco tied the game when Cody Ross pasted a homerun off Lowe. The Braves plated a run in the bottom of the sixth to retake a one run lead. Brian McCann homered off second year hurler, Madison Bumgarner. The Giants’ flamethrower went six innings and allowed six hits. He struck out five and walked one batter during his post-season debut. Giants starters have stupefied the opposition, allowing just three earned runs during the NLDS’s 29 innings.
The Braves had their chances. They stranded nine men on base and were 0-for-6 with runners in scoring position. The Giants overcame the Braves’ one run lead for the second time with Ross’ hitting heroics in the seventh. The 29 year old outfielder drove in the winning run on a punch to left field. Buster Posey scored on the base hit off Atlanta’s Jonny Venters. The Giants were helped by Atlanta errors for the third time in their three victories. Shortstop, Alex Gonzalez, was the guilty party for the Braves on Monday night. Gonzalez’s costly blunder in the decisive seventh allowed the tying run to score. Aided by shaky Atlanta defense and reliable relief pitching, San Francisco shut down the home team and seized the series. Santiago Casilla, Javier Lopez and Brian Wilson combined to slam the door on the Braves’ promising season in Cox’s final game.
Parting Points: I’m disappointed in Favre’s behavior and the fact that the Jets are 4-1.
Derek Lowe pitched hitless baseball for the Braves through six solid innings. Lowe was pitching on just three days’ rest but showed no signs of sluggishness. He destroyed San Francisco hitters, fanning eight total batters. Depleted with injuries to standout players, Atlanta was unable extend Cox’s career however. It was the West coast Giants that quieted a packed stadium on the East coast. The Giants did just enough to advance to face the Phillies in the conference championship. After trailing 1-0 in the sixth, San Francisco tied the game when Cody Ross pasted a homerun off Lowe. The Braves plated a run in the bottom of the sixth to retake a one run lead. Brian McCann homered off second year hurler, Madison Bumgarner. The Giants’ flamethrower went six innings and allowed six hits. He struck out five and walked one batter during his post-season debut. Giants starters have stupefied the opposition, allowing just three earned runs during the NLDS’s 29 innings.
The Braves had their chances. They stranded nine men on base and were 0-for-6 with runners in scoring position. The Giants overcame the Braves’ one run lead for the second time with Ross’ hitting heroics in the seventh. The 29 year old outfielder drove in the winning run on a punch to left field. Buster Posey scored on the base hit off Atlanta’s Jonny Venters. The Giants were helped by Atlanta errors for the third time in their three victories. Shortstop, Alex Gonzalez, was the guilty party for the Braves on Monday night. Gonzalez’s costly blunder in the decisive seventh allowed the tying run to score. Aided by shaky Atlanta defense and reliable relief pitching, San Francisco shut down the home team and seized the series. Santiago Casilla, Javier Lopez and Brian Wilson combined to slam the door on the Braves’ promising season in Cox’s final game.
Parting Points: I’m disappointed in Favre’s behavior and the fact that the Jets are 4-1.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Why Do I Wait
(A song I wrote)
Why do I wait
And think of your sweet face
Why do I hold on to the night
Like it was something that was mine
Is it enough to say goodbye
Or will you pull me back in time
I’m staying strong but I’m not moving on
I hear your voice, you’ve made your choice
Still I’m not sold with what you told
You look at me as if a dream
I’m in love and I’m sure you’re with me
Why do I still see your eyes
You are gone and I’m feeling sorry
But I know it’s you who worries
As we stay in our separate places
I swear to you, I know we’ll make it
Is it ever gonna be the same
Or am I a fool in a losing game
Why do I wait
And think of your sweet face
Why do I hold on to the night
Like it was something that was mine
Is it enough to say goodbye
Or will you pull me back in time
I’m staying strong but I’m not moving on
I hear your voice, you’ve made your choice
Still I’m not sold with what you told
You look at me as if a dream
I’m in love and I’m sure you’re with me
Why do I still see your eyes
You are gone and I’m feeling sorry
But I know it’s you who worries
As we stay in our separate places
I swear to you, I know we’ll make it
Is it ever gonna be the same
Or am I a fool in a losing game
Hoping you Home
I can’t erase the strain
The broken-hearted pain
The intensity of our plans
In the richness of your hands
Tumbling out of sight
When everything used to be right
I miss loving you
Counting on you too
I feel lost in disguise
Without your lovely eyes
The games we used to play
Meaning nothing if you don’t stay
As I sit here and I cry
I think I’d give another try
I know only of forgiveness
And remember only your kiss
The day you saved my heart
From dissembling to falling apart
The night you opened up inside
I couldn’t duplicate if I tried
All the deep affection
Immersed in your reflection
Still, you’re far away
To hear the words I say
So I write another poem
And hope you will come home
The broken-hearted pain
The intensity of our plans
In the richness of your hands
Tumbling out of sight
When everything used to be right
I miss loving you
Counting on you too
I feel lost in disguise
Without your lovely eyes
The games we used to play
Meaning nothing if you don’t stay
As I sit here and I cry
I think I’d give another try
I know only of forgiveness
And remember only your kiss
The day you saved my heart
From dissembling to falling apart
The night you opened up inside
I couldn’t duplicate if I tried
All the deep affection
Immersed in your reflection
Still, you’re far away
To hear the words I say
So I write another poem
And hope you will come home
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Buckeye Breather
They can take a few deep breaths in Columbus after a close call in week five of college football. Second-ranked, Ohio State too their undefeated campaign to Champaign, Illinois on Saturday afternoon. The Buckeyes’ Big 10 opener proved to be a battle, with the nation’s number two team prevailing 24-13. Ohio State overcame a rather grim melee during their first road trip of the season. The scrappy 2-2 Fighting Illini tested visiting OSU at Memorial Stadium, holding the Bucks to their fewest yards in 11 games. But the Buckeyes milked the clock, relying on a bonified defense and robust running game to stave off the Illini. Quarterback Terrelle Pryor completed 9-of-16 passes for just 76 yards. The Ohio State signal caller threw two touchdowns and was intercepted once in Jim Tressel’s 99th win as Buckeyes’ head coach. Pryor was also injured, missing chunks of the conference contest’s third quarter. The junior slinger suffered a strained thigh muscle, but returned to finish the game.
The Buckeyes went three-and-out to start the game in red-clad Memorial Stadium. Illinois quarterback, Nathan Scheelhaase’s three yard run gave the home team a 7-0 edge midway through the first stanza. Scheelhaase converted a 3rd-and-9 to Jarred Fayson to keep the chains moving for Illinois and scored on a third down scramble moments later for the game’s first touchdown. Ohio State’s defense uncharacteristically gave up a touchdown and five first downs in the first quarter, but found their rhythm the rest of the game. Scheelhaase was sacked three times and picked off once in the loss. He was held without a touchdown despite tossing over 100 yards and completing over half of his 22 passes.
Brandon Saine finished off a 74 yard Ohio State drive by hauling in an eight yard pass from Pryor on the fourth play of the drive. Saine’s touchdown tied the game at 7-7 in the first quarter. Illinois took a 10-7 lead in the second quarter on Derek Dimke’s 27 yard field goal with 1:50 remaining. The Buckeyes were determined not to go into the break trialing the unranked Illini by three. The Illini dominated time of possession in the first half. Ohio State held the ball for just over 13 minutes, but it was the final 45 seconds that changed the game’s momentum in favor of the scarlet and gray. Pryor found Dane Sanzenbacher in the end zone for an 11 yard touchdown as the first half ended. Just like that OSU carried a four point lead into the locker room. Sanzenbacher finished with three receptions for 35 yards and a score. The Buckeyes would not trail again.
Ohio State still led 14-10 heading into the fourth quarter after neither team found the end zone in the third. The third quarter featured a trade of turnovers. Jermale Hines intercepted Scheelhaase to give OSU a first down at the Illini 44. Joe Bauserman, filling in for the injured Pryor, overthrew his receiver and gave the ball right back to the home team. Pryor returned before the start of the fourth quarter and threw the ball four times. The Buckeyes had 20 rushes after Pryor’s return. Dan Herron ran for 95 yards during the game. Pryor orchestrated a 59 yard drive that chewed up nearly eight minutes of the third and fourth quarter. The Buckeye defense was strong, holding 100-yard rusher, Mike Leshoure to 80 yards.
Devin Barclay created some breathing room for the Bucks with a 32-yarder through the uprights with 8:27 left on the clock. Dimke gave the Illini another three, pulling the home team within four points with less than five minutes remaining. The Illini were faced with a 4th-and-7 with four minutes remaining, but chose to punt instead of go for the first down. They never got another chance. Herron, with just six yards at halftime, pounded out 89 yards in the second half. The tailback stamped home the final touchdown of the day on a six yard run and an 11 point margin. OSU was helped by an offsides call on Illini cornerback, Justin Green. The Bucks were aided by an Illini penalty earlier in the game also. The extra point attempt following Saine’s touchdown was blocked, but a penalty against Ron Zook’s team gave Barclay a second kick.
Parting Points: The Yankees split the twinbill with the Sox. Now it’s time to win the division. At least Andy Pettitte looked solid.
The Buckeyes went three-and-out to start the game in red-clad Memorial Stadium. Illinois quarterback, Nathan Scheelhaase’s three yard run gave the home team a 7-0 edge midway through the first stanza. Scheelhaase converted a 3rd-and-9 to Jarred Fayson to keep the chains moving for Illinois and scored on a third down scramble moments later for the game’s first touchdown. Ohio State’s defense uncharacteristically gave up a touchdown and five first downs in the first quarter, but found their rhythm the rest of the game. Scheelhaase was sacked three times and picked off once in the loss. He was held without a touchdown despite tossing over 100 yards and completing over half of his 22 passes.
Brandon Saine finished off a 74 yard Ohio State drive by hauling in an eight yard pass from Pryor on the fourth play of the drive. Saine’s touchdown tied the game at 7-7 in the first quarter. Illinois took a 10-7 lead in the second quarter on Derek Dimke’s 27 yard field goal with 1:50 remaining. The Buckeyes were determined not to go into the break trialing the unranked Illini by three. The Illini dominated time of possession in the first half. Ohio State held the ball for just over 13 minutes, but it was the final 45 seconds that changed the game’s momentum in favor of the scarlet and gray. Pryor found Dane Sanzenbacher in the end zone for an 11 yard touchdown as the first half ended. Just like that OSU carried a four point lead into the locker room. Sanzenbacher finished with three receptions for 35 yards and a score. The Buckeyes would not trail again.
Ohio State still led 14-10 heading into the fourth quarter after neither team found the end zone in the third. The third quarter featured a trade of turnovers. Jermale Hines intercepted Scheelhaase to give OSU a first down at the Illini 44. Joe Bauserman, filling in for the injured Pryor, overthrew his receiver and gave the ball right back to the home team. Pryor returned before the start of the fourth quarter and threw the ball four times. The Buckeyes had 20 rushes after Pryor’s return. Dan Herron ran for 95 yards during the game. Pryor orchestrated a 59 yard drive that chewed up nearly eight minutes of the third and fourth quarter. The Buckeye defense was strong, holding 100-yard rusher, Mike Leshoure to 80 yards.
Devin Barclay created some breathing room for the Bucks with a 32-yarder through the uprights with 8:27 left on the clock. Dimke gave the Illini another three, pulling the home team within four points with less than five minutes remaining. The Illini were faced with a 4th-and-7 with four minutes remaining, but chose to punt instead of go for the first down. They never got another chance. Herron, with just six yards at halftime, pounded out 89 yards in the second half. The tailback stamped home the final touchdown of the day on a six yard run and an 11 point margin. OSU was helped by an offsides call on Illini cornerback, Justin Green. The Bucks were aided by an Illini penalty earlier in the game also. The extra point attempt following Saine’s touchdown was blocked, but a penalty against Ron Zook’s team gave Barclay a second kick.
Parting Points: The Yankees split the twinbill with the Sox. Now it’s time to win the division. At least Andy Pettitte looked solid.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Winning the West
The San Francisco Giants are one win away from their first NL West division crown since 2003. San Francisco’s 4-1 triumph over the Diamondbacks coupled with the Padres’ slip-up to the Chicago Cubs pits the Giants in ideal position heading into this weekend’s series. The Giants play San Diego beginning tonight, and unless the Padres sweep the Giants at A T & T Park, Bruch Bochy’s club will be headed to the playoffs. The Giants have been on a tear as of late, winning eight of their last ten and sweeping the Diamondbacks in three games. Last night, Arizona slapped seven hits but crossed the plate just once. The Giants garnered six hits but tallied a more productive four runs.
Madison Bumgarner and Barry Enright battled in a pairing of rookie hurlers on Thursday night. Bumgarner, looking for his first ever victory at home for the Giants, pitched out of jams to earn the win. The San Francisco rookie southpaw surrendered one run through five frames. He struck out seven to stave off the Diamondbacks and give the Giants their 91st win this season. Enright struggled in his start, allowing three homeruns through five innings of work. Arizona’s offense didn’t help the rookie. The Diamondbacks stranded a runner on second base in each of the first four innings as Enright suffered his fifth loss in his last five tries. The Giants were the first team to light up the scoreboard when Pablo Sandoval deposited a fastball off Enright into McCovey Cove for a 1-0 lead. It was the third baseman’s 13th long ball of the season and 62nd RBI.
The Diamondbacks evened the contest in the fourth inning after loading the bases against Bumgarner. The Giants’ 21 year old hurler limited the damage to a single tally via Enright’s sacrifice fly. Bumgarner was bashed around in the fifth on back-to-back one out singles, but remained composed and got the final two outs to keep the ball game tied 1-1. In the San Francisco half of the fifth, Andres Torres gave the Giants a one-run advantage when he 16th homerun landed over the right-center field wall. The leadoff centerfielder had two hits Thursday night and also stole his 25th base of the year.
Rookie-of-the-year candidate, Buster Posey, pulled the Giants ahead by three with some sixth inning fireworks. Posey’s two run drive followed Aubrey Huff’s leadoff walk and was the 16th time the Giants have clubbed one out in their last seven games. San Francisco used a trio of relievers to pen down the DBacks the rest of the game. A three run cushion was all the bullpen needed to contain the ailing Arizona offense. Santiago Casilla, Sergio Romo and Ramon Ramirez held Arizona hitless through four frames. Ramirez picked up the save in place of Bochy’s usual closer, Brian Wilson. Wilson will be well-rested for the upcoming series against San Diego. The Giants’ pitching staff leads the majors in strikeouts, and has already topped the single-season franchise record for K’s. San Francisco looks to pitching sensation, Matt Cain, when they try to win the West this evening.
Parting Points: October kickoff!
I guess the Mets will be hunting for a new manager next season. Joe Torre anyone?
No mock turtlenecks on the NBA sidelines? Hmm, I hope college football doesn’t follow suit and start banning sweater vests.
Madison Bumgarner and Barry Enright battled in a pairing of rookie hurlers on Thursday night. Bumgarner, looking for his first ever victory at home for the Giants, pitched out of jams to earn the win. The San Francisco rookie southpaw surrendered one run through five frames. He struck out seven to stave off the Diamondbacks and give the Giants their 91st win this season. Enright struggled in his start, allowing three homeruns through five innings of work. Arizona’s offense didn’t help the rookie. The Diamondbacks stranded a runner on second base in each of the first four innings as Enright suffered his fifth loss in his last five tries. The Giants were the first team to light up the scoreboard when Pablo Sandoval deposited a fastball off Enright into McCovey Cove for a 1-0 lead. It was the third baseman’s 13th long ball of the season and 62nd RBI.
The Diamondbacks evened the contest in the fourth inning after loading the bases against Bumgarner. The Giants’ 21 year old hurler limited the damage to a single tally via Enright’s sacrifice fly. Bumgarner was bashed around in the fifth on back-to-back one out singles, but remained composed and got the final two outs to keep the ball game tied 1-1. In the San Francisco half of the fifth, Andres Torres gave the Giants a one-run advantage when he 16th homerun landed over the right-center field wall. The leadoff centerfielder had two hits Thursday night and also stole his 25th base of the year.
Rookie-of-the-year candidate, Buster Posey, pulled the Giants ahead by three with some sixth inning fireworks. Posey’s two run drive followed Aubrey Huff’s leadoff walk and was the 16th time the Giants have clubbed one out in their last seven games. San Francisco used a trio of relievers to pen down the DBacks the rest of the game. A three run cushion was all the bullpen needed to contain the ailing Arizona offense. Santiago Casilla, Sergio Romo and Ramon Ramirez held Arizona hitless through four frames. Ramirez picked up the save in place of Bochy’s usual closer, Brian Wilson. Wilson will be well-rested for the upcoming series against San Diego. The Giants’ pitching staff leads the majors in strikeouts, and has already topped the single-season franchise record for K’s. San Francisco looks to pitching sensation, Matt Cain, when they try to win the West this evening.
Parting Points: October kickoff!
I guess the Mets will be hunting for a new manager next season. Joe Torre anyone?
No mock turtlenecks on the NBA sidelines? Hmm, I hope college football doesn’t follow suit and start banning sweater vests.
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