The Easter Bunny isn’t the only one hopping around this time of year. Hockey teams are either leaping into the playoffs or skirmishing and skipping their way to a spot.
Every year, I find myself entrenched and engrossed in playoff hockey and 2009 is no different. While several teams already locked up a chance to skate in the league’s extra session, there are teams vying for a final spot. Here are each conference’s bubble teams trying to back into the post-season and the ones who already have a spring in their skates.
The snazzy, snappy San Jose Sharks lead the Western conference and continue to pull out one-goal wins. A tripping and tight Shark defense has strengthened the team’s chances of success in the playoffs. Look for San Jose to barrel through the competition and unleash their clashing command in the next month.
The central division is dominated by Detroit. The Red Wings are as good as advertised but only second best overall in the conference. They locked up a trip to the post-season with two net minders. Chris Osgood and Ty Conklin aren’t a guaranteed good combination however. The Detroit goalies are allowing too many goals to pass through their protective pads. The fact is their hopes of repeating as champions rests on an .887 save percentage at the goal position.
The Vancouver Canucks are hot at the present moment but are struggling to achieve the title of NW division champions. They will probably wind up third in the West come season’s end. The Flames are battling with Vancouver for that position, but have exhibited a recent slide in progress toward the goal. Calgary’s woes are felt at home and the team is not quite the road warrior type.
The 2007 Stanley Cup winning Anaheim Ducks unloaded some veteran players and stumbled right before the trade deadline. Now they are a team in contention. The Ducks areled by Scott Niedermeyer, Chris Pronger, and Ryan Getzlaf and are a talented skating team. Anaheim glows and gels on ice with the best record of the Western contenders down the stretch.
Chicago has been under performing but the Blackhawks are back in the playoffs for the first time in years. They will not have a long-lived stay in their return if they can’t find a quick solution for an inadequate defense. Chicago looks like a team that just doesn’t belong to me.
For the first time in franchise history, Columbus fans can watch their Bluejackets skate into the post-season. Rookie goalie, Steve Mason, has made all the difference and the team will need an extraordinary effort from the front line if they hope to surge forward. The team has Rick Nash and are in good with their relatively easy schedule on hand.
The surprise playoff hopeful Predators managed to legitimize their franchise by clawing back into contention late. Solid play has given them an opportunity to snare a spot over teams like the Sabres, Oilers and Wild. The offense in Nashville is merely mediocre but Pekka Rinne has been precise. Nashville is poised for a 7th or 8th seed with their unstable but grind-it-out team. The Predators can goal-tend but penalty killing is the foremost flaw.
The Blues have an outstanding head coach, Andy Murray, who has adapted to an injured lineup. Throw into the mix three road games in Phoenix, Dallas and Colorado to end the year, and things aren’t looking optimistic. All the games are winnable but St. Louis has little margin for error. St Louis has come on strong, even without Manny Legace in net and Keith Tkachuk and Erik Johnson sidelined so they have a half-chance making a run.
The Oilers are in deep danger of being the odd-team out because they are bordering on an 11th overall finish. The Minnesota Wild and Oilers probably have to win out in order to obtain a playoff berth. Niklas Backstrom ignites the Oilers but without solid net play they are likely to miss the playoffs. The Wild will have three home games but cannot seem to close out the opposition and are playing sub-par hockey as of late.
In the East, the first place Boston Bruins are ready to romp. The B’s defensive struggles should be a concern but all indications are the team will be pumped for the playoffs. New Jersey, Washington, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia and Carolina are already in and the Canadiens, Rangers, Panthers and Sabres are eastern bubble teams.
The Devils cooled off substantially after Martin Brodeur’s record setting night last month. New Jersey is third best overall but fans should be disturbed by the recent slump. It is appropriate to question the Devils’ preparedness for the post-season based on how they have handled hockey intensity in recent chances.
The Washington Capitals have perhaps the game’s best player and the greatest offense. The SE division winners are second in the East but prone to sloppy play on defense. Defense wins championships so the Capitals have to re-focus on being more well-balanced. The one-sided approach only takes teams so far.
Carolina added Erik Cole and Eric Staal to an already charged club. They are stiff competitors and will go head-to-head with anybody in the East.
Just as scorching are the Pittsburgh Penguins. The team is loaded with talent. Chris Kunitz and Bill Guerin are throwback players brought to Pittsburgh to improve and rework the team. Evgeni Malkin and Sydney Crosby are the games’ shining youngsters who add depth, and with Kunitz and Guerin, will have a little help shooting and defending.
The Flyers downfall will be goaltending inconsistency. The team spirit took a hit as the team went into a funk down the stretch. It was as if the team needed a box spring to go along with their lazy play. Don’t sleep on Philadelphia though. Their coach is tough and will have them awake in time for their first post-season match up.
Blueshirt backers believe the link to their success is Henrik Lundqvist, but cannot rely only on the gifted goaltender. Nick Antropov, Sean Avery, Chris Drury, Markus Naslund and Scott Gomez haven’t been lighting up the scoreboard, especially in the third period. The Rangers are slowly sinking despite the effort from Ryan Callahan, Brandon Dubinsky, and Marc Staal. Coach John Tortorella’s team has three games left to earn a playoff spot. The Rangers are tied with Florida but hold the tiebreaker for the 8th and final Eastern conference spot. New York could take a blow that hope tonight against a Montreal team that is a lively one. Working for the Rangers is the fact the Canadiens are coming off consecutive back-to-back contests. Working against them is their tough schedule. It features playing Philly at home Thursday for the home finale and away at Boston Saturday and Philly Sunday. The team is collectively limping to the finish after a slight revival with the Avery and Antropov acquisitions. New York’s poor power play could cause a collapse for a team that had such promise earlier in the year.
The Canadiens dropped five straight games a week ago and were failing to clinch a playoffs spot. The turnaround came quickly though, and now the team is more productive with top forwards Saku Koivu and Alex Kovalev leading the charge.
The Buffalo Sabres would be content just to reach the next round. They are out a goalie in Ryan Miller and play some grueling road games, including in Detroit and Toronto, to end the year. They also have to host Boston one more time in Buffalo.
Florida hasn’t been in post-season in 9 years. The Panthers’ goaltending has carried the team all year and their chances of reaching the playoffs is not as good as New York’s but better than Buffalo’s. The Panthers square off against Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Washington, three playoff teams, to their finish 2009 campaign.
Parting Points: A new baseball book I am looking forward to delving into hit’s the shelves. It’s called “Forever Blue: The True Story of Walter O’Malley, Baseball’s Most Controversial Owner, and the Dodgers of Brooklyn and Los Angeles” by Michael D’Antonio
I can tell the bullpen for the Mets is going to be an integral part of their success this season. And, what a debacle the NCAA title game was last night.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Monday, April 6, 2009
Initial Impressions
Today is my absolute favorite day of the year. It’s Opening Day. The two best words in the English language, and they do not even begin with the same letter.
My first impressions won’t be molded until I see some games, but here are my predictions for the American League divisions.
It will take at least 95 victories to win the AL East. Three teams are legitimately contending in Tampa, New York and Boston. The Yankees’ rotation is vastly improved from last year. When healthy, they have arguably the best of the bunch. Wang is a two time 19 game winner and he’s the third starter. The first two starters, C.C. Sabathia and A.J. Burnett, were brought to the Bombers to win. The rotation is just as loaded in Boston. Josh Beckett is their undaunted ace with playoff credentials worthy of any all-time great. The Red Sox pitching and defense will have fans in Boston buying playoff tickets again. I think the Yankees will be crowned division winners and Boston wins the wildcard over the young Rays. The singles hitters, speed and MVP position players make Boston a threat to New York. The Bombers may suffer a slow start with Arod out of the lineup and certainly the Yankees will face roadblocks health-wise along the way. But I have a feeling Joe Girardi has a fired up team opening a new stadium seeking another championship. Robinson Cano will elevate his game this year and live up to his expectations. Tampa found ways to beat up just about every team a year ago. But I don’t think they have the firepower arms or the crushing offense to repeat as American League representatives in the World Series. They should make a good run now that they are a more comfortable and cozy club. I am writing off the Orioles and Bluejays even though both feature underrated stars. The Jays have a decent infield and rotation and the Orioles’ young outfielders and catcher are players to watch this summer.
Minnesota captures the central division under Ron Gardenhire’s first-rate management. The Twins sound defense is as colorful as the manager’s persona. You can never dismiss the Twins as post-season pests. Catcher, Joe Mauer, was the best hitter in the league a few years ago and despite his health concerns, is the key offensively. The team surprisingly finished third in runs last year. Justin Morneau, Delmon Young, Joe Crede and Michael Cuddyer can all hit and play their positions extremely well. Carlos Gomez is a taunting base runner as the team speedster. Francisco Liriano, the gifted left-handed pitcher, should have a bounce back year. Liriano has an obscure style that reminds me of a young Doc Gooden. Nick Blackburn and Kevin Slowey are two of the best young arms solidifying a commanding rotation. The White Sox are the defending central champions but are a team in transition. They lack an identity and are trying to bring along a few untested infielders. It will be a tough void without shortstop, Orlando Cabrera’s glove on the field. Crede was a staple at third but crossed over to division rival Minnesota. Gavin Floyd and John Danks are impressive on the mound but habitually hittable. Jose Contreras and Mark Buehrle can both still pitch but their best days are behind them. Closer, Bobby Jenks, had an MVP-like performance when the White Sox were in the World Series but his velocity is down this season. The Kansas City Royals are hoping to win more games then they lose for the first time in years. This probably will not be that year. Detroit seemed to take 2008 off after being the pre-season favorite to win it all. Starters, Dontrelle Willis and Justin Verlander have much to prove. Both are trying to reestablish themselves and Willis’ mental makeup has taken a hit Verlander’s mechanics are a problem after a disappointing 17 loss 2008 for the former ace. The Detroit infield up the middle was utterly ugly last year. Adam Everett and Edwin Jackson could polish off the dust left from the Tigers’ defensive flaws. The Cleveland Indians have more depth than they did last year. Cleveland shored up their weaknesses by signing a premier closer in Kerry Wood. They also added an important bat in consistent, Mark DeRosa. Carl Pavano joins a rotation of reigning CY Young winner, Cliff Lee and Fausto Carmona. Carmona can throw heat but can be erratic at times. Travis Hafner is the team DH and should hold up against tougher division pitching. But one big man is not enough, even in the central. If Victor Martinez is the veteran hitter he knows how to be, the Indians do have a chance to do some damage.
The Western division is a tricky one to figure. I am picking the Oakland Athletics out of the gate. The A’s brought in Matt Holliday and Jason Giambi to revive the offense. Last time I checked, the sluggers were kissing more than few balls goodbye. The pitching has always been the driving force in Oakland, and the young starters slated to break out look promising. This might be the year for lefties Dallas Braden, Brett Anderson, and Gio Gonzalez to make their marks. Returning ace, Justin Duchscherer is out for the first month. Trevor Cahill and Sean Gallagher become immediate impact pitchers. Cahill’s knuckle-curve looks solid and he is an astute control pitcher. Eric Chavez is one of the best at third base when he is healthy and Mark Ellis is a tough out at the plate and genius with the glove. The A’s have a smattering of unforeseen talent all around the diamond. The bullpen pitching can prevent runs and hold big leagues. The Seattle Mariners finished last place in 2008 with a hapless 61-101 record. They shouldn’t lose in triple digits this year, but I can’t see them winning the West. Anaheim’s dominant rotation, fearsome bullpen and capable defense make them a heavy favorite. However, the Angels are not the same team at the plate than the one who ran away with the division. They will be ready to pounce as usual, but Oakland will overtake them finally by late September and go their merry way into the playoffs. After a difficult playoff ouster, I don’t believe the Angels will be able to pick up the pieces. Texas finished second to Anaheim with a 79-83 record. The Rangers will likely win just as many games but really have not addressed their needs this winter. Kris Benson and Andruw Jones were signed but both are washed up players. Neftali Perez is being projected as a number one type pitcher. That is about as optimistic as the pitching gets in Texas. The Rangers’ starters do not provide many innings despite the teams’ ability to rack up runs. As Michael Young makes the transition to third base, rookie Elvis Andrus needs to become a top of the order power hitter.
AL MVP: Mark Teixeira (that badgering bat)
AL Manager of the Year: Ron Gardenhire
AL CY Young: James Shields (going out on a limb)
Other Oddball predictions:
Ian Kinsler is poised for a productive and presentable season I have to say. Kinsler will make a nice run for batting champ. He could battle it out with Robinson Cano.
Jake Peavy is shipped in a mid-season trade the Oakland A’s. The A’s are due. This is their year. Peavy produces and shines with his snappy stuff on the mound. Oakland goes to the World Series.
Parting points: My Opening Day tune- “The Impression That I Get” by the Mighty Mighty Bosstones
My first impressions won’t be molded until I see some games, but here are my predictions for the American League divisions.
It will take at least 95 victories to win the AL East. Three teams are legitimately contending in Tampa, New York and Boston. The Yankees’ rotation is vastly improved from last year. When healthy, they have arguably the best of the bunch. Wang is a two time 19 game winner and he’s the third starter. The first two starters, C.C. Sabathia and A.J. Burnett, were brought to the Bombers to win. The rotation is just as loaded in Boston. Josh Beckett is their undaunted ace with playoff credentials worthy of any all-time great. The Red Sox pitching and defense will have fans in Boston buying playoff tickets again. I think the Yankees will be crowned division winners and Boston wins the wildcard over the young Rays. The singles hitters, speed and MVP position players make Boston a threat to New York. The Bombers may suffer a slow start with Arod out of the lineup and certainly the Yankees will face roadblocks health-wise along the way. But I have a feeling Joe Girardi has a fired up team opening a new stadium seeking another championship. Robinson Cano will elevate his game this year and live up to his expectations. Tampa found ways to beat up just about every team a year ago. But I don’t think they have the firepower arms or the crushing offense to repeat as American League representatives in the World Series. They should make a good run now that they are a more comfortable and cozy club. I am writing off the Orioles and Bluejays even though both feature underrated stars. The Jays have a decent infield and rotation and the Orioles’ young outfielders and catcher are players to watch this summer.
Minnesota captures the central division under Ron Gardenhire’s first-rate management. The Twins sound defense is as colorful as the manager’s persona. You can never dismiss the Twins as post-season pests. Catcher, Joe Mauer, was the best hitter in the league a few years ago and despite his health concerns, is the key offensively. The team surprisingly finished third in runs last year. Justin Morneau, Delmon Young, Joe Crede and Michael Cuddyer can all hit and play their positions extremely well. Carlos Gomez is a taunting base runner as the team speedster. Francisco Liriano, the gifted left-handed pitcher, should have a bounce back year. Liriano has an obscure style that reminds me of a young Doc Gooden. Nick Blackburn and Kevin Slowey are two of the best young arms solidifying a commanding rotation. The White Sox are the defending central champions but are a team in transition. They lack an identity and are trying to bring along a few untested infielders. It will be a tough void without shortstop, Orlando Cabrera’s glove on the field. Crede was a staple at third but crossed over to division rival Minnesota. Gavin Floyd and John Danks are impressive on the mound but habitually hittable. Jose Contreras and Mark Buehrle can both still pitch but their best days are behind them. Closer, Bobby Jenks, had an MVP-like performance when the White Sox were in the World Series but his velocity is down this season. The Kansas City Royals are hoping to win more games then they lose for the first time in years. This probably will not be that year. Detroit seemed to take 2008 off after being the pre-season favorite to win it all. Starters, Dontrelle Willis and Justin Verlander have much to prove. Both are trying to reestablish themselves and Willis’ mental makeup has taken a hit Verlander’s mechanics are a problem after a disappointing 17 loss 2008 for the former ace. The Detroit infield up the middle was utterly ugly last year. Adam Everett and Edwin Jackson could polish off the dust left from the Tigers’ defensive flaws. The Cleveland Indians have more depth than they did last year. Cleveland shored up their weaknesses by signing a premier closer in Kerry Wood. They also added an important bat in consistent, Mark DeRosa. Carl Pavano joins a rotation of reigning CY Young winner, Cliff Lee and Fausto Carmona. Carmona can throw heat but can be erratic at times. Travis Hafner is the team DH and should hold up against tougher division pitching. But one big man is not enough, even in the central. If Victor Martinez is the veteran hitter he knows how to be, the Indians do have a chance to do some damage.
The Western division is a tricky one to figure. I am picking the Oakland Athletics out of the gate. The A’s brought in Matt Holliday and Jason Giambi to revive the offense. Last time I checked, the sluggers were kissing more than few balls goodbye. The pitching has always been the driving force in Oakland, and the young starters slated to break out look promising. This might be the year for lefties Dallas Braden, Brett Anderson, and Gio Gonzalez to make their marks. Returning ace, Justin Duchscherer is out for the first month. Trevor Cahill and Sean Gallagher become immediate impact pitchers. Cahill’s knuckle-curve looks solid and he is an astute control pitcher. Eric Chavez is one of the best at third base when he is healthy and Mark Ellis is a tough out at the plate and genius with the glove. The A’s have a smattering of unforeseen talent all around the diamond. The bullpen pitching can prevent runs and hold big leagues. The Seattle Mariners finished last place in 2008 with a hapless 61-101 record. They shouldn’t lose in triple digits this year, but I can’t see them winning the West. Anaheim’s dominant rotation, fearsome bullpen and capable defense make them a heavy favorite. However, the Angels are not the same team at the plate than the one who ran away with the division. They will be ready to pounce as usual, but Oakland will overtake them finally by late September and go their merry way into the playoffs. After a difficult playoff ouster, I don’t believe the Angels will be able to pick up the pieces. Texas finished second to Anaheim with a 79-83 record. The Rangers will likely win just as many games but really have not addressed their needs this winter. Kris Benson and Andruw Jones were signed but both are washed up players. Neftali Perez is being projected as a number one type pitcher. That is about as optimistic as the pitching gets in Texas. The Rangers’ starters do not provide many innings despite the teams’ ability to rack up runs. As Michael Young makes the transition to third base, rookie Elvis Andrus needs to become a top of the order power hitter.
AL MVP: Mark Teixeira (that badgering bat)
AL Manager of the Year: Ron Gardenhire
AL CY Young: James Shields (going out on a limb)
Other Oddball predictions:
Ian Kinsler is poised for a productive and presentable season I have to say. Kinsler will make a nice run for batting champ. He could battle it out with Robinson Cano.
Jake Peavy is shipped in a mid-season trade the Oakland A’s. The A’s are due. This is their year. Peavy produces and shines with his snappy stuff on the mound. Oakland goes to the World Series.
Parting points: My Opening Day tune- “The Impression That I Get” by the Mighty Mighty Bosstones
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Receiver Replacement
Bring Bodacious Braylon to Big Blue
The New York Giants were not the same football team without the agile Plaxico Burress on the field. The flabbergasting football feats Plaxico produced were prodigious. Number 17 was officially released from the team on Friday and now Jerry Reese has to fill the wide receiver hole hanging over the team. I whole-heartedly agreed with the decision to drop Burress. Reese left the door open for a happy return not long before Friday’s announcement. He and the Giants were more than willing to honor Plaxico’s remaining four year contract. The shallow Burress boasted a resounding resume and had everything going for him. He deserved the increased pay last off-season. But now, the misbehaving receiver and his greedy agent want compensation for last year’s missed playing time. Enough is enough. Plaxico took advantage of his star status and the team has every right to be angry. It was time for the Giants to move on, without the distraction of his off-field antics. Burress made a spectacle of the franchise by demonstrating his inability to stay out of trouble. The repeated suspensions and neglected meetings and practices became inexcusable and tiresome over the past few years. The reactionary result decisively disinfects the dark cloud in the clubhouse. His Giant teammates reportedly liked Burress but unfortunately must learn to trust a younger wideout or hope management drafts well this April.
Finding a replacement will be a giant task and pressing process for New York. You cannot teach an athlete size, and there are very few NFL players who can match Plaxico’s height and ability to catch passes. Domenik Hixon, Steve Smith, Mario Manningham, Sinorice Moss, and David Tyree are members of Tom Coughlin’s team with talent. Not one of them stands out as a number one go-to guy for Eli Manning.
Braylon Edwards of the Browns would be my choice for the Giants. He is an attractive option on the open market. Braylon is a play maker who is going into the last year of his contract. The five year player could be obtained via a trade and fill the spot vacated when Plaxico was passed on. The organization appears reluctant to part with first or third round draft picks in order to land Edwards now. Braylon could use a change of scenery and he’s communicated his desire to play in New York. In 2008, he accumulated 873 yards with only 3 touchdowns. The season before, he had a career year. Braylon ripped 1,289 yards with 16 touchdowns. The knock on Edwards are his dropped passes and inconsistency at the wideout position. However, Edwards did not have any fumbles last season. The Giants do not need him to be spectacular. They only need a solid receiving alternative to supplement the running game. Plaxico is a top 10 receiver. Edwards will never be elite but is a feasible replacement. He maybe ranks in the top 25 in the league. Braylon is 6’3” and 215 pounds but a more responsible football player than Plaxico could ever be. The 2005 number three overall draft pick has already been to the Pro Bowl. He plays the position well enough to learn the system, and is most effective in 1st or 2nd and long situations. Eli Manning will have to adjust and be willing to throw to his younger crop of receivers. I am really high on Edwards and would completely back a move to bring him to Big Blue this season.
The aspect Plaxico added was an opponent’s fear in covering the massive presence. He pressurized other players. Often he was double-teamed and the main focus of head coach’s pregame strategies. Edwards, or any of the other Giant receivers, do not exude fright. That was proven after Plaxico went down last winter and Manning was forced to pass the ball around. Hixon and Smith are both able to step up and will not go into shells. But they cannot be the main components because neither are deep threats. Moss is also considered in the mix and quietly and occasionally will catch some balls thrown his way. Hixon is better at short routes and Smith is quick, but better exploited in short-yard situations too. Hixon is exciting to watch but has questionable skills. He initially replaced Plaxico and handled the job as well as anybody could ask. Domenik made the Meadowlands his home and will have to be the new security blanket for Manning. Domenik starred at Akron and was primarily drafted by Denver as a return specialist. He’s a special teams ace and accrued numerous accomplishments in that area. Hixon has a take-charge attitude you admire in an athlete. Smith is similar in stance but a more polished player He has two years under his belt in New York. He already cemented himself in Giants history with a game changing catch during Superbowl XLII. Aside from the memorable 17 yard reception on 3rd and 11 late in the game, he also recorded 5 receptions for 50 yards. Savvy Smith begets flexibility and is a viable number two receiver. The Alaskan native caught 190 passes as a college player for the USC Trojans and I believe will have a breakout 2009.
Manningham was one of my favorite college players coming from Michigan, and he reminds me a lot of Edwards. Both were Wolverines; maybe that’s why. I just think Mario has more potential than he’s been given credit. The Ohio-born Mario appeared in 7 games last season and averaged 4.3 yards. Manning to Manningham should be the tandem announced by commentaries all around New York for years to come. Eli needs to take the time to make Mario fit in. Coughlin and his creative coordinators should infuse Manningham into the offensive plan. Tyree was the hero of the Superbowl over New England two years ago. His famous catch was a once-in-a-lifetime one, and I hesitate to consider him a consistent option for the Giants. If he returns, he is not going to see a lot passes but could bring depth to the team in long-yard situations. With Amani Toomer gone, the Giants do not have a veteran leader on the field offensively. Edwards could bring that leadership quality if the Giants were willing to take the risk in inquiring and acquiring him. He may not be the target on field Plaxico was, but it’s obvious the Giants are out of options. Manning can no longer have reservations about throwing to other players. Big Blue will have to model their game around a different player, or set of players. All that’s needed is to put the idea into practice this Spring and summer. It will take hard work but the team integrity will be better off for it.
If the Giants choose to wait until the April draft to snag a sleeper receiver, I like Percy Harvin. Harvin starred for the championship Gators and has speed, good hands and game-breaking knack. Texas Tech’s Michael Crabtree is another option and probably will be the first at the WR position selected. Big Blue are sure to find a future receiver in this year’s rookie class with 10 draft picks on tap.
Parting points: Excellent page turner- Anything by Washington Irving
The New York Giants were not the same football team without the agile Plaxico Burress on the field. The flabbergasting football feats Plaxico produced were prodigious. Number 17 was officially released from the team on Friday and now Jerry Reese has to fill the wide receiver hole hanging over the team. I whole-heartedly agreed with the decision to drop Burress. Reese left the door open for a happy return not long before Friday’s announcement. He and the Giants were more than willing to honor Plaxico’s remaining four year contract. The shallow Burress boasted a resounding resume and had everything going for him. He deserved the increased pay last off-season. But now, the misbehaving receiver and his greedy agent want compensation for last year’s missed playing time. Enough is enough. Plaxico took advantage of his star status and the team has every right to be angry. It was time for the Giants to move on, without the distraction of his off-field antics. Burress made a spectacle of the franchise by demonstrating his inability to stay out of trouble. The repeated suspensions and neglected meetings and practices became inexcusable and tiresome over the past few years. The reactionary result decisively disinfects the dark cloud in the clubhouse. His Giant teammates reportedly liked Burress but unfortunately must learn to trust a younger wideout or hope management drafts well this April.
Finding a replacement will be a giant task and pressing process for New York. You cannot teach an athlete size, and there are very few NFL players who can match Plaxico’s height and ability to catch passes. Domenik Hixon, Steve Smith, Mario Manningham, Sinorice Moss, and David Tyree are members of Tom Coughlin’s team with talent. Not one of them stands out as a number one go-to guy for Eli Manning.
Braylon Edwards of the Browns would be my choice for the Giants. He is an attractive option on the open market. Braylon is a play maker who is going into the last year of his contract. The five year player could be obtained via a trade and fill the spot vacated when Plaxico was passed on. The organization appears reluctant to part with first or third round draft picks in order to land Edwards now. Braylon could use a change of scenery and he’s communicated his desire to play in New York. In 2008, he accumulated 873 yards with only 3 touchdowns. The season before, he had a career year. Braylon ripped 1,289 yards with 16 touchdowns. The knock on Edwards are his dropped passes and inconsistency at the wideout position. However, Edwards did not have any fumbles last season. The Giants do not need him to be spectacular. They only need a solid receiving alternative to supplement the running game. Plaxico is a top 10 receiver. Edwards will never be elite but is a feasible replacement. He maybe ranks in the top 25 in the league. Braylon is 6’3” and 215 pounds but a more responsible football player than Plaxico could ever be. The 2005 number three overall draft pick has already been to the Pro Bowl. He plays the position well enough to learn the system, and is most effective in 1st or 2nd and long situations. Eli Manning will have to adjust and be willing to throw to his younger crop of receivers. I am really high on Edwards and would completely back a move to bring him to Big Blue this season.
The aspect Plaxico added was an opponent’s fear in covering the massive presence. He pressurized other players. Often he was double-teamed and the main focus of head coach’s pregame strategies. Edwards, or any of the other Giant receivers, do not exude fright. That was proven after Plaxico went down last winter and Manning was forced to pass the ball around. Hixon and Smith are both able to step up and will not go into shells. But they cannot be the main components because neither are deep threats. Moss is also considered in the mix and quietly and occasionally will catch some balls thrown his way. Hixon is better at short routes and Smith is quick, but better exploited in short-yard situations too. Hixon is exciting to watch but has questionable skills. He initially replaced Plaxico and handled the job as well as anybody could ask. Domenik made the Meadowlands his home and will have to be the new security blanket for Manning. Domenik starred at Akron and was primarily drafted by Denver as a return specialist. He’s a special teams ace and accrued numerous accomplishments in that area. Hixon has a take-charge attitude you admire in an athlete. Smith is similar in stance but a more polished player He has two years under his belt in New York. He already cemented himself in Giants history with a game changing catch during Superbowl XLII. Aside from the memorable 17 yard reception on 3rd and 11 late in the game, he also recorded 5 receptions for 50 yards. Savvy Smith begets flexibility and is a viable number two receiver. The Alaskan native caught 190 passes as a college player for the USC Trojans and I believe will have a breakout 2009.
Manningham was one of my favorite college players coming from Michigan, and he reminds me a lot of Edwards. Both were Wolverines; maybe that’s why. I just think Mario has more potential than he’s been given credit. The Ohio-born Mario appeared in 7 games last season and averaged 4.3 yards. Manning to Manningham should be the tandem announced by commentaries all around New York for years to come. Eli needs to take the time to make Mario fit in. Coughlin and his creative coordinators should infuse Manningham into the offensive plan. Tyree was the hero of the Superbowl over New England two years ago. His famous catch was a once-in-a-lifetime one, and I hesitate to consider him a consistent option for the Giants. If he returns, he is not going to see a lot passes but could bring depth to the team in long-yard situations. With Amani Toomer gone, the Giants do not have a veteran leader on the field offensively. Edwards could bring that leadership quality if the Giants were willing to take the risk in inquiring and acquiring him. He may not be the target on field Plaxico was, but it’s obvious the Giants are out of options. Manning can no longer have reservations about throwing to other players. Big Blue will have to model their game around a different player, or set of players. All that’s needed is to put the idea into practice this Spring and summer. It will take hard work but the team integrity will be better off for it.
If the Giants choose to wait until the April draft to snag a sleeper receiver, I like Percy Harvin. Harvin starred for the championship Gators and has speed, good hands and game-breaking knack. Texas Tech’s Michael Crabtree is another option and probably will be the first at the WR position selected. Big Blue are sure to find a future receiver in this year’s rookie class with 10 draft picks on tap.
Parting points: Excellent page turner- Anything by Washington Irving
Saturday, April 4, 2009
More Motown Madness
The Big Dance is down to four teams vying for a Monday night Division I Championship game. North Carolina and Connecticut are both number one seeds and favorites to win their Final Four showdowns in Detroit tonight. The Big East representative Huskies are joined by fellow conference comrades, Villanova. The Wildcats will have to prove they can play at the highest possible level against a ferocious North Carolina Tarheel team. Meanwhile, Connecticut faces a dark horse Michigan State team. The Spartans are playing in their own backyard and will have the home field advantage by far.
The number one rebounding Spartans must find support for scoring machine, Goran Sutton. Sutton will need the help of his teammates to match the size of the Huskies frontline. Michigan State hasn’t seen a team like the one they will face tonight at all during this tournament. Tom Izzo’s credentials are good and the Spartans will be motivated by a crowd that will hardly be subdued. Last week, Michigan State throttled Louisville by taking them out of their element. They smashed the Cardinals with a brawny blend of physicality and slick speed. This is one fighting team and if any of the lower seeds are winning tonight, I give them the best chance. It won’t be easy knocking off another number one seed but Izzo’s Spartans are a practiced and patient team. They will need to slow the tempo and control the game against a potent Huskie offense.
Junior, Raymar Morgan, hasn’t been a factor this tournament for Michigan State. He suffered a broken nose and hasn‘t been playing with confidence. Durrell Summers, Chris Allen and Draymond Green showed they can handle new roles as premier players. Izzo’s young collegiate crew exhibited exactness when encountering Louisville’s lashing defense. Green is a smart position player, and only a freshman. Idong Ibok, on the bench at the center spot, could be a factor in the game against Connecticut. Izzo is expecting him to come off the bench and get a chance to block some shots. The Spartans are undermanned but should find other ways to contain the Huskies. Sutton is averaging 14 points this tournament. He led the conference in rebounding this year and earned most outstanding player of the Midwest region. Kalin Lucas deserves kudos for his ability to run with anybody in Division I. I anticipate Lucas will be of assistance if the Spartans have any hopes of keeping this a game.
Michigan State may have the best rebounding team in the nation but they are followed by their opponent, Connecticut. The Huskies have so many offensive weapons and now even more options to rely on with the debut of Manhattan freshman, Kemba Walker. Walker starred for Jim Calhoun against Missouri and proved another ball handler for the evocative Huskies. Kemba had 9 points and 4 assists in only 9 minutes against Mizzou. He handled the pressure of the Tigers like a pro. Connecticut is a dominant Big East program with stories success. They expose and exploit other teams with a crop of sharp shooters. Jeff Adrien and A.J. Price are leaders on the court, and Hasheem Thabeet has unprecedented ability when he is on his game. I think Connecticut wins in a close affair. They have a lot to prove and are out to make a statement.
The North Carolina Tarheels were the consensus number one team to start the year. The NC backcourt with Wayne Ellington and Ty Lawson can create insurmountable intensity. Danny Green is a money shooter who rarely misses the big shots for NC. With their commanding athleticism and size, breakaway ability and senior laden team, I foresee a win and trip to the finals for Roy Williams. The seniors are looking for a championship sendoff and this is their last chance. Lawson is an all-American point guard the Wildcats will have a hard time holding back. Both teams posted 30 win seasons and are capable of putting up points. Carolina operates mostly on offense, and Jay Wright’s Villanova team tends to rely on the rebound. The Wildcat guard play will keep the game from being a blow out. Dwyane Anderson is a great rebounder and can shoot in double figures. Anderson and Dante Cunningham are a dynamic duo. The Villanova defense is terrific and will cause North Carolina fits. But Tyler Hansbrough, the All-American 6’9” force for NC needs to be stopped if the Wildcats are to prevail. Hansbrough is the ACC’s all time leading scorer. He only accounted for 8 of North Carolina’s points last week against Oklahoma. I think he will look to at least double that digit tonight. Nova’s game plan will be to force Hansbrough or Deon Thompson into foul trouble. That sounds pedestrian enough, but is harder than it really is. Scottie Reynolds for Villanova is a sound and solid, respectable player. He will have his hands full with the intricate, illuminating and illustrious Carolina interior. Villanova held Duke to 26% shooting tough and the tough-minded team can catch on quickly by playing the basics well.
Parting points: Are the Mets serious with the Gary Sheffield signing? He’s 41 years old and only hit .225 in 418 games for Detroit last year.
It’s about time Plaxico Burress was released from the Giants. Thank goodness story that had legs is no longer running.
The number one rebounding Spartans must find support for scoring machine, Goran Sutton. Sutton will need the help of his teammates to match the size of the Huskies frontline. Michigan State hasn’t seen a team like the one they will face tonight at all during this tournament. Tom Izzo’s credentials are good and the Spartans will be motivated by a crowd that will hardly be subdued. Last week, Michigan State throttled Louisville by taking them out of their element. They smashed the Cardinals with a brawny blend of physicality and slick speed. This is one fighting team and if any of the lower seeds are winning tonight, I give them the best chance. It won’t be easy knocking off another number one seed but Izzo’s Spartans are a practiced and patient team. They will need to slow the tempo and control the game against a potent Huskie offense.
Junior, Raymar Morgan, hasn’t been a factor this tournament for Michigan State. He suffered a broken nose and hasn‘t been playing with confidence. Durrell Summers, Chris Allen and Draymond Green showed they can handle new roles as premier players. Izzo’s young collegiate crew exhibited exactness when encountering Louisville’s lashing defense. Green is a smart position player, and only a freshman. Idong Ibok, on the bench at the center spot, could be a factor in the game against Connecticut. Izzo is expecting him to come off the bench and get a chance to block some shots. The Spartans are undermanned but should find other ways to contain the Huskies. Sutton is averaging 14 points this tournament. He led the conference in rebounding this year and earned most outstanding player of the Midwest region. Kalin Lucas deserves kudos for his ability to run with anybody in Division I. I anticipate Lucas will be of assistance if the Spartans have any hopes of keeping this a game.
Michigan State may have the best rebounding team in the nation but they are followed by their opponent, Connecticut. The Huskies have so many offensive weapons and now even more options to rely on with the debut of Manhattan freshman, Kemba Walker. Walker starred for Jim Calhoun against Missouri and proved another ball handler for the evocative Huskies. Kemba had 9 points and 4 assists in only 9 minutes against Mizzou. He handled the pressure of the Tigers like a pro. Connecticut is a dominant Big East program with stories success. They expose and exploit other teams with a crop of sharp shooters. Jeff Adrien and A.J. Price are leaders on the court, and Hasheem Thabeet has unprecedented ability when he is on his game. I think Connecticut wins in a close affair. They have a lot to prove and are out to make a statement.
The North Carolina Tarheels were the consensus number one team to start the year. The NC backcourt with Wayne Ellington and Ty Lawson can create insurmountable intensity. Danny Green is a money shooter who rarely misses the big shots for NC. With their commanding athleticism and size, breakaway ability and senior laden team, I foresee a win and trip to the finals for Roy Williams. The seniors are looking for a championship sendoff and this is their last chance. Lawson is an all-American point guard the Wildcats will have a hard time holding back. Both teams posted 30 win seasons and are capable of putting up points. Carolina operates mostly on offense, and Jay Wright’s Villanova team tends to rely on the rebound. The Wildcat guard play will keep the game from being a blow out. Dwyane Anderson is a great rebounder and can shoot in double figures. Anderson and Dante Cunningham are a dynamic duo. The Villanova defense is terrific and will cause North Carolina fits. But Tyler Hansbrough, the All-American 6’9” force for NC needs to be stopped if the Wildcats are to prevail. Hansbrough is the ACC’s all time leading scorer. He only accounted for 8 of North Carolina’s points last week against Oklahoma. I think he will look to at least double that digit tonight. Nova’s game plan will be to force Hansbrough or Deon Thompson into foul trouble. That sounds pedestrian enough, but is harder than it really is. Scottie Reynolds for Villanova is a sound and solid, respectable player. He will have his hands full with the intricate, illuminating and illustrious Carolina interior. Villanova held Duke to 26% shooting tough and the tough-minded team can catch on quickly by playing the basics well.
Parting points: Are the Mets serious with the Gary Sheffield signing? He’s 41 years old and only hit .225 in 418 games for Detroit last year.
It’s about time Plaxico Burress was released from the Giants. Thank goodness story that had legs is no longer running.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Spring Sports Stanzas
4-3
The kickstand lifts for a kinetic thrill
A cycle on nature’s path promises physical play
With Spring sun shining, a scintillating skill
High noon demands considerable conditioning
A split set with double deuces drains one dry
With each poach pressuring perfect positioning
Flea flickers fly fluently forward with force
A football preseason frolic reveals rust on rooted rubble
With grass growing gradually on a gridiron coarse
Out of the park propels the proper pitch
A sparkling star sails in a cloudless Spring sky
With a striding runner touching home without a hitch
Parting points: Coincidentally, my favorite actor and actress are born today. Happy birthday to the cool, Marlon Brando and charismatic, Jennie Garth.
Also hard to believe baseball note: Ken Griffey, Jr. made his major league debut twenty years ago today.
“Your faith has saved you; go in peace”
The kickstand lifts for a kinetic thrill
A cycle on nature’s path promises physical play
With Spring sun shining, a scintillating skill
High noon demands considerable conditioning
A split set with double deuces drains one dry
With each poach pressuring perfect positioning
Flea flickers fly fluently forward with force
A football preseason frolic reveals rust on rooted rubble
With grass growing gradually on a gridiron coarse
Out of the park propels the proper pitch
A sparkling star sails in a cloudless Spring sky
With a striding runner touching home without a hitch
Parting points: Coincidentally, my favorite actor and actress are born today. Happy birthday to the cool, Marlon Brando and charismatic, Jennie Garth.
Also hard to believe baseball note: Ken Griffey, Jr. made his major league debut twenty years ago today.
“Your faith has saved you; go in peace”
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Cursed Comeback Chicago Cubs
Regurgitated annually is the notion the Cubs will end their World Series drought and bring a championship ring home to the baseball-famished city. Cub backers dream of declaring their darling team the best in baseball. They imagine a world where Wrigley hosts the World Series and fantasize about sweeping the AL representative. Will this be the year for the Cubs? Experts perceive Chicago running away with the NL Central division and striding steadily into post-season glory. Chicago has a team of players who can guide this club into the playoffs and beyond.
Last year, the stars were aligned for Chicago to capture the crown. 2008 was exactly 100 years since the 1908 team appeared in the Fall Classic. Fans believed in their lovable losers a year ago, but hours after losing their final game to the Dodgers, I am sure were not so let down. After all, this is the Cubs we’re talking about. The team hasn’t been tothe World Series in over 100 years.
Wrigley Field is one of baseball’s valued venues. Lou Piniella again is the manager for the NL club who won 97 games in 2008. Piniella has a strong starting rotation at his fingertips. The same starting five pitchers return, but the bullpen will be without Kerry Wood at the back end.
Derrek Lee, Alfonso Soriano, Aramis Ramirez and Milton Bradley form a fearsome four at the plate. The need for a left-handed bat was addressed in the off-season with the acquisition of Bradley. Milton can switch hit for Piniella and whack for power. He can also be a major headache for a manager some consider hard to please. Bradley brings baggage to the Cubs. The team already has one hothead in pitcher, Carlos Zambrano. More distressing than Milton though are the sporadic and spontaneous injuries that seem to occur to Soriano and starter, Rich Harden every season. Harden can’t stay on the field long enough to put up CY Young numbers he is well capable of throwing. Harden has that fresh from high school face and is an appealing hurler when he’s tossing his pretty pitches. Soriano is as scary as any slugger when he steps into the batter’s box. Both players are going to have be in prime shape. The Cubs will ride their talent throughout the summer. Lucrative Lee is a scary force and a defensively-sound fielder. Lee’s all-star bat brings a brashness to the Chicago lineup any opposing team would dread. He is also a team leader and spokesperson but could be curbed by an aching aged body.
The rest of the lineup consists of Kosuku Fukudome, Micah Hoffpauir, Mike Fontenot, Geovany Soto, and Ryan Theriot. Soriano hits leadoff because his aggressive swing and ability to steal bases score the most runs. The Cubs were efficient in scoring early last season. They also had some large leads in the early innings of several games to accompany their winning season record. Defense is going to be important, and was part of the problem during last year’s playoff fumble. Soriano certainly does not have any Gold Gloves in his trophy case. Hoffpauir is also an error-prone first baseman, but a young one. Micah had a fine spring, one of the best for all major leaguers, at the plate. Fontenot plays second base next to a fine third baseman in Ramirez. Theriot is Piniella’s right-handed shortstop and hits near the bottom of the order. Fukudome is a smooth second hole hitter and is a capable glove in center. He is a Punch-and-Judy hitter but will show the occasional power to the fences. His name alone subjects him to public mockery however.
Zambrano is the ace of the staff and a grinder who knows exactly what he wants to do with the ball. The stubborn pitcher mixes off speed stuff with a devastating fastball for a deadly combination. Harden, Ted Lilly, Sean Marshall and Ryan Demptser round out the startling rotation. Not a bad five to lead a team, I would gander.
Kevin Gregg and Aaron Heilman were added as right-handed pitchers to an already stacked bullpen. Heilman is a former Met, who always considered himself above the relief role. Something to keep a keen eye on this year will be Heilman’s production for the Cubs. If Piniella eventually decides Aaron has starter material, I wonder how Heilman will perform. He might not get the chance unless a major injury occurs to one of the starters. Gregg is no slouch, and also an ambitious reliever with high personal goals. He recently won the closer job over Carlos Marmol. Marmol gets hitters to chase his pitches and pop up with relative frequency. However, Gregg is slated to appear when the Cubs start the season in Houston on Monday.
Catcher, Koyie Hill, beat out Paul Bako the for backup job, but there are still two spots left to be determined for the final pitchers. Chad Gaudin, David Patton, Jeff Samardzija and Angel Guzman are the four options. Joey Gathright is a quality pinch hitter riding the pine this Spring for the Cubs. Gathright is a quick and slick outfield option too. Veteran, Mark DeRosa, was traded during the winter and replaced by utility man, Aaron Miles. Miles gives the Cubs much needed depth and might be a sleeper player. Luiz Vizacaino joins Heilman and Kevin Hart in the bullpen for Chicago. The pen is considered a strength for this team.
Piniella is no conservative coach so I assume we will see some changes throughout the Cubs season. His heads-up style is great but many of his choices are questionable. Still, the Cubs play in a weak division. They could be rivaled by Dusty Baker and the up-start Cincinnati Reds. Cincy’s rotation is going to claim credibility, and if all goes well, could give the Cubs a run for the division title. In the end, I do think the Cubs are too deep to be surpassed by any of the other NL Central clubs. The curse of the Billy goat has to end sometime. Right?
Parting points: In case you haven’t caught on by now, yesterday was April Fools Day. Thus, my blog was not true. I am not going to become a Mets fan.
Last year, the stars were aligned for Chicago to capture the crown. 2008 was exactly 100 years since the 1908 team appeared in the Fall Classic. Fans believed in their lovable losers a year ago, but hours after losing their final game to the Dodgers, I am sure were not so let down. After all, this is the Cubs we’re talking about. The team hasn’t been tothe World Series in over 100 years.
Wrigley Field is one of baseball’s valued venues. Lou Piniella again is the manager for the NL club who won 97 games in 2008. Piniella has a strong starting rotation at his fingertips. The same starting five pitchers return, but the bullpen will be without Kerry Wood at the back end.
Derrek Lee, Alfonso Soriano, Aramis Ramirez and Milton Bradley form a fearsome four at the plate. The need for a left-handed bat was addressed in the off-season with the acquisition of Bradley. Milton can switch hit for Piniella and whack for power. He can also be a major headache for a manager some consider hard to please. Bradley brings baggage to the Cubs. The team already has one hothead in pitcher, Carlos Zambrano. More distressing than Milton though are the sporadic and spontaneous injuries that seem to occur to Soriano and starter, Rich Harden every season. Harden can’t stay on the field long enough to put up CY Young numbers he is well capable of throwing. Harden has that fresh from high school face and is an appealing hurler when he’s tossing his pretty pitches. Soriano is as scary as any slugger when he steps into the batter’s box. Both players are going to have be in prime shape. The Cubs will ride their talent throughout the summer. Lucrative Lee is a scary force and a defensively-sound fielder. Lee’s all-star bat brings a brashness to the Chicago lineup any opposing team would dread. He is also a team leader and spokesperson but could be curbed by an aching aged body.
The rest of the lineup consists of Kosuku Fukudome, Micah Hoffpauir, Mike Fontenot, Geovany Soto, and Ryan Theriot. Soriano hits leadoff because his aggressive swing and ability to steal bases score the most runs. The Cubs were efficient in scoring early last season. They also had some large leads in the early innings of several games to accompany their winning season record. Defense is going to be important, and was part of the problem during last year’s playoff fumble. Soriano certainly does not have any Gold Gloves in his trophy case. Hoffpauir is also an error-prone first baseman, but a young one. Micah had a fine spring, one of the best for all major leaguers, at the plate. Fontenot plays second base next to a fine third baseman in Ramirez. Theriot is Piniella’s right-handed shortstop and hits near the bottom of the order. Fukudome is a smooth second hole hitter and is a capable glove in center. He is a Punch-and-Judy hitter but will show the occasional power to the fences. His name alone subjects him to public mockery however.
Zambrano is the ace of the staff and a grinder who knows exactly what he wants to do with the ball. The stubborn pitcher mixes off speed stuff with a devastating fastball for a deadly combination. Harden, Ted Lilly, Sean Marshall and Ryan Demptser round out the startling rotation. Not a bad five to lead a team, I would gander.
Kevin Gregg and Aaron Heilman were added as right-handed pitchers to an already stacked bullpen. Heilman is a former Met, who always considered himself above the relief role. Something to keep a keen eye on this year will be Heilman’s production for the Cubs. If Piniella eventually decides Aaron has starter material, I wonder how Heilman will perform. He might not get the chance unless a major injury occurs to one of the starters. Gregg is no slouch, and also an ambitious reliever with high personal goals. He recently won the closer job over Carlos Marmol. Marmol gets hitters to chase his pitches and pop up with relative frequency. However, Gregg is slated to appear when the Cubs start the season in Houston on Monday.
Catcher, Koyie Hill, beat out Paul Bako the for backup job, but there are still two spots left to be determined for the final pitchers. Chad Gaudin, David Patton, Jeff Samardzija and Angel Guzman are the four options. Joey Gathright is a quality pinch hitter riding the pine this Spring for the Cubs. Gathright is a quick and slick outfield option too. Veteran, Mark DeRosa, was traded during the winter and replaced by utility man, Aaron Miles. Miles gives the Cubs much needed depth and might be a sleeper player. Luiz Vizacaino joins Heilman and Kevin Hart in the bullpen for Chicago. The pen is considered a strength for this team.
Piniella is no conservative coach so I assume we will see some changes throughout the Cubs season. His heads-up style is great but many of his choices are questionable. Still, the Cubs play in a weak division. They could be rivaled by Dusty Baker and the up-start Cincinnati Reds. Cincy’s rotation is going to claim credibility, and if all goes well, could give the Cubs a run for the division title. In the end, I do think the Cubs are too deep to be surpassed by any of the other NL Central clubs. The curse of the Billy goat has to end sometime. Right?
Parting points: In case you haven’t caught on by now, yesterday was April Fools Day. Thus, my blog was not true. I am not going to become a Mets fan.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Switching Sides
The latest issue of Sports Illustrated hit newsstands this week. In it are the 2009 baseball season predictions. The reputable ‘zine has the New York Mets meeting the Anaheim Angels in the World Series. Not only that, the writers chose New York to win the whole darn thing. SI’s prediction convinced me to convert to being a Mets fan. It was unsettling at first, but I decided the Mets are the more fascinating and fun team to watch in New York. After listening to a plain pre-season game against the Marlins last night, my pro-Mets jitters vanished.
I’ve blogged blatantly about my passion for the Yankees and they do have the richer and deeper history. But I have been questioning my fandom for the Bronx Bombers lately, especially after the Arod steroid allegations and fallout last year. The team didn’t even make the playoffs. At least the marquee Mets took their season down to the final game before being officially eliminated from the post-season. As a yearning Yankees fan growing up, I expected success. They cake-walked through the regular season during the 90’s and took it to most teams in the post-season. More often than not, I saw winning Yankees teams win championships. It was easy to always root for the best. But after last season, I was let down big time as a Yankee fan.
The Mets are amazing contenders who play in the senior circuit. Their scrappy style and special stars of today give rise to admiration. The Mets depict rising heroes to a generation of faithful following fans. It’s hard not to root for players like Johan Santana and David Wright. The bullpen will be an exciting entity to follow with the addition of Krod and J.J. Putz. Already, fans of the sport are considering the marvelous Mets a favorite to win the division because it looks as if the Phillies are not as strong as they were in 2008. I too am jumping on the New York Met bandwagon now. I suspect many sports fans change their favorite teams from time to time throughout their lives. I’ve changed my mind and will no longer pull for the Yankees over the Mets. I am tired of rooting for the team with the highest payroll and greediest owners. I remember being a little kid cheering for the Mets. Those days, the Mets played in Shea Stadium and guys like rudimentary Howard Johnson, charming, Kevin Elster, Gregg Jefferies, Wally Backman, and David Cone were a part of the franchise. Later on, I found myself silently pulling for Mike Piazza, Todd Hundley, Edgardo Alfonzo, and Robin Ventura. I’ve read recounts of the 1969 and 1986 championship teams, delved into biographies of Keith Hernandez, Tom Seaver and Ron Darling. Bobby Valentine is one of my all-time favorites and it’s impossible to forget Mookie Wilson’s game winner through Bill Buckner’s legs. Lee Mazzilli and Willie Randolph belong to the Mets, not the Yankees. I smile seeing Ron Darling on Sportsnet NY and love listening to the lucid and logical voices of Gary Cohen and Howie Rose on the radio. Words cannot describe the implausible peace of mind brought about by hearing Mets games being broadcasted.
Controversy and miracle plays have long been a part of the organization. Even with the mental meltdowns of the past three years, the Mets continue to conjure coolness and class. Jose Reyes can fly around the bases, Carlos Beltran’s defense is worth the price of admission to Citi Field, and Carlos Delgado is the real deal with exuberant ability. Santana is an artist with the baseball, painting the corners and firing flames with a fine feel. There are young players waiting to refine their skills in the big leagues and new pitchers possessing promising pitching ploys. Omar Minaya and Jerry Manuel work better together than Brian Cashman and Joe Girardi. The Yankees do not have a clubhouse that exudes the camaraderie of the Mets’. The Yankees may have the record for World Series appearances and victories and I have spent many dollars and hours following as a fan. It’s time to turn in my pinstripes. I am not giving up on the Yankees, but I cannot be a fan of the team anymore. The Mets are my new team. I hope they break the SI curse and do win the World Series. They are long overdue, and so is this fan’s conversion. It is time to trade in my #21 (Paul O’Neill) and #51 (Bernie Williams) for #31 (Mike Piazza) and #41 (Tom Seaver) jerseys. I can hardly wait to create picturesque memories with Ryan Church and Daniel Murphy radiating in the backdrop of my mind. David Wells may have pitched a perfect game on my birthday, but Wright is the latest David in my life. I am going to hide my inner tomboy and confess Wright is an incredibly adorable man.
Rooting for the Mets is like riding a roller coaster, and I am ready for the riveting thrill. Who wants to remain in the stone age and be a Yankees fan anyway?
Parting points: A song for my mom- “My Life Would Suck Without You” by Kelly Clarkson. She’s partially responsible for prompting this alteration by buying me a Mets polo shirt last weekend.
I’ve blogged blatantly about my passion for the Yankees and they do have the richer and deeper history. But I have been questioning my fandom for the Bronx Bombers lately, especially after the Arod steroid allegations and fallout last year. The team didn’t even make the playoffs. At least the marquee Mets took their season down to the final game before being officially eliminated from the post-season. As a yearning Yankees fan growing up, I expected success. They cake-walked through the regular season during the 90’s and took it to most teams in the post-season. More often than not, I saw winning Yankees teams win championships. It was easy to always root for the best. But after last season, I was let down big time as a Yankee fan.
The Mets are amazing contenders who play in the senior circuit. Their scrappy style and special stars of today give rise to admiration. The Mets depict rising heroes to a generation of faithful following fans. It’s hard not to root for players like Johan Santana and David Wright. The bullpen will be an exciting entity to follow with the addition of Krod and J.J. Putz. Already, fans of the sport are considering the marvelous Mets a favorite to win the division because it looks as if the Phillies are not as strong as they were in 2008. I too am jumping on the New York Met bandwagon now. I suspect many sports fans change their favorite teams from time to time throughout their lives. I’ve changed my mind and will no longer pull for the Yankees over the Mets. I am tired of rooting for the team with the highest payroll and greediest owners. I remember being a little kid cheering for the Mets. Those days, the Mets played in Shea Stadium and guys like rudimentary Howard Johnson, charming, Kevin Elster, Gregg Jefferies, Wally Backman, and David Cone were a part of the franchise. Later on, I found myself silently pulling for Mike Piazza, Todd Hundley, Edgardo Alfonzo, and Robin Ventura. I’ve read recounts of the 1969 and 1986 championship teams, delved into biographies of Keith Hernandez, Tom Seaver and Ron Darling. Bobby Valentine is one of my all-time favorites and it’s impossible to forget Mookie Wilson’s game winner through Bill Buckner’s legs. Lee Mazzilli and Willie Randolph belong to the Mets, not the Yankees. I smile seeing Ron Darling on Sportsnet NY and love listening to the lucid and logical voices of Gary Cohen and Howie Rose on the radio. Words cannot describe the implausible peace of mind brought about by hearing Mets games being broadcasted.
Controversy and miracle plays have long been a part of the organization. Even with the mental meltdowns of the past three years, the Mets continue to conjure coolness and class. Jose Reyes can fly around the bases, Carlos Beltran’s defense is worth the price of admission to Citi Field, and Carlos Delgado is the real deal with exuberant ability. Santana is an artist with the baseball, painting the corners and firing flames with a fine feel. There are young players waiting to refine their skills in the big leagues and new pitchers possessing promising pitching ploys. Omar Minaya and Jerry Manuel work better together than Brian Cashman and Joe Girardi. The Yankees do not have a clubhouse that exudes the camaraderie of the Mets’. The Yankees may have the record for World Series appearances and victories and I have spent many dollars and hours following as a fan. It’s time to turn in my pinstripes. I am not giving up on the Yankees, but I cannot be a fan of the team anymore. The Mets are my new team. I hope they break the SI curse and do win the World Series. They are long overdue, and so is this fan’s conversion. It is time to trade in my #21 (Paul O’Neill) and #51 (Bernie Williams) for #31 (Mike Piazza) and #41 (Tom Seaver) jerseys. I can hardly wait to create picturesque memories with Ryan Church and Daniel Murphy radiating in the backdrop of my mind. David Wells may have pitched a perfect game on my birthday, but Wright is the latest David in my life. I am going to hide my inner tomboy and confess Wright is an incredibly adorable man.
Rooting for the Mets is like riding a roller coaster, and I am ready for the riveting thrill. Who wants to remain in the stone age and be a Yankees fan anyway?
Parting points: A song for my mom- “My Life Would Suck Without You” by Kelly Clarkson. She’s partially responsible for prompting this alteration by buying me a Mets polo shirt last weekend.
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