His velocity was unmatched. His control was unpredictable. His accomplishments were unprecedented. I’m talking about Nolan Ryan.
Nolan Ryan was drafted by the New York Mets in 1966. The 19 year old made his debut that year, fittingly at the Astrodome. He only lasted an inning, however. The young right-handed pitcher was a slow starter in the Big Apple. No one was predicting a future Hall Of Fame career nor were the Mets’ brass impressed with his lack of control on the mound. Ryan was a boy from Texas who never fit in with the New York Mets. In 1968, Gil Hodges started the flamethrower on Easter Sunday. He fared much better in this start, striking out seven of the first ten men he faced.
Even though he contributed to the 1969 Championship team and spent five years a member of their pitching staff, it was clear he was not the ace. Gary Gentry, Jerry Koosman and Tom Seaver were all more promising pitching prospects. 1969 was Ryan’s only winning season as a Metropolitan. Nolan came in during the NLCS in a relief role for Gentry to help the Mets win the pennant. In Game 3 of the World Series, he sealed the save by relieving Gentry again. He did miss a portion of the year due to recurring injuries.
The California Angels acquired Nolan in early December, 1971. In California, Ryan pitched double the innings he did in New York. This was the start of the real Ryan.
Ryan finished 1972 with a 19-16 record and led the league in strikeouts and walks. His 2.28 ERA was also among league leaders. During the 1970s, it was rare to track a pitcher’s count. Nolan probably threw close to 200 pitches during a game. Ryan tossed a no hitter against the Kansas City Royals on May 15, 1973. It was the first of his record seven no-hitters. People would swing at anything just to get out of the batter’s box. Ryan sometimes didn’t even know where is his pitches would conclude.
Standing at the plate facing Ryan in those days must have been scary. Hitters were lucky to see the ball long enough for their hands to react to the pitch. The mere fear of knowing who they were facing was enough to have a hitter clam up. Ryan could combat with any type of changeup, curveball or devastating fastball. His lack of control was the most defining and maybe most endearing quality of watching the Express roll over batter after batter. Even coming out of the dugout, players would cringe and duck in fear.
Ryan is an imposing symbol of greatness in baseball. I have more Nolan Ryan baseball cards than any other player in my small collection. I loved the guy. I think the main reason was because it was always extreme with Ryan. You had no idea where the ball was going half the time and other times he was just so on his game and focused it was brilliant to witness. Ryan fooled other players with his carefully crafted location of tosses. Pitches could literally drop out at the last minute when looking like a meatball. I can’t think of any player today to compare him to. There are not any pitchers in today’s game who would throw as many pitches or have as many complete games and innings as Ryan. The game has changed. Pitchers no longer have the fortitude to endure long stretches of consistency. I often think if Ryan pitched today, he would be pulled early in games just like today’s stars. Coaches and managers coddle young pitchers too much. What are they saving their arms for?
I remember watching a wild Nolan Ryan knock hitters down. The batter could do nothing about it and was only left confused as to whether the pitcher meant it or not. The Express threw his signature fastball at over 100 mph as if it were as routine as washing his hair everyday.
Rickey Henderson was Ryan’s 500th strikeout victim. That is remarkable in itself. It happened in 1989. He missed out on two more no hitters in the ninth inning in 1989 also. The following year, July 1990, Nolan notched his 300th win. Ryan is the strikeout leader with 5,714. Trailing far behind him is Steve Carlton with 1,578. I doubt it will ever be broken by a major league pitcher.
Lynn Nolan Ryan was well known by the time I started looking up to him. As a pitcher myself, I admired Ryan. I remember him most with the Astros and Rangers. Everybody in my elementary classes knew who Nolan Ryan was even if they hadn’t a clue why. They heard the name at least. It was wonderful watching The Express in the Astrodome. He always seemed so old to me when he took the ball for Houston and Texas. In my mind, he is this veteran pitcher who I never knew as a young player. He is a father figure in his retro Astros jersey, lifting his left leg in my 1990 Topps baseball card. His white high top cleats are new, his hat is perfectly aligned atop his head, and his glove holds his true gift to the game.
I would have loved to see Ryan’s 773 games started, but unfortunately he pitched some of his better games before my time. With 324 careers wins and 61 shutouts, it’s no wonder the Express is a legend of the game. I was rooting for the Mets in 1986 I think, but I remember the Game 2 loss at the Astrodome by Houston. Number 34 battled back in Game 5 with eight strikeouts of the first twelve he faced. The Mets won the game in the bottom of the 12th inning. By that time, Ryan had already revolutionize the game of baseball. He was delightful to see pick off base runners. Nolan was the oldest pitcher to throw a no hitter and stockpiled 24 seasons with over 100 strikeouts. He paved the way for so many of today’s pitchers.
Only now can I truly appreciate the charismatic, celebrated current coach of the Texas Rangers. Ryan played in the pre-ESPN era and most of his accomplishments went under-appreciated. Nolan had nemesis’ chasing his fastballs for three decades. Most remember him for his smoke but he also had an accurate and solid curveball too. Any boy aspiring to be a major league pitcher should watch old games where Ryan pitched.
In the ever-changing environment of baseball, The Express is enduring and eternal. He never changes because history cannot be altered.
Parting points: “Going back to Houston, do the hot dog dance, Going back to Houston to get me some pants” -Beck’s “Lord Only Knows”
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Steve Sax vs. Steve Sanders
I’m going to skip the Thursday Take-twos today and instead do a compare and contrast on two alliteration-friendly names. Steve Sax is a real former baseball player. Steve Sanders is an imaginary character on the popular TV show, Beverly Hills, 90210. The inspiration for this idea came from SI.com. Ironically, today is Steve Sax’s birthday. 90210 and the Yankees are two of my favorite things in the world. Sax played for the Yankees in the 1980’s and Sanders appeared in every 90210 episode during the 1990’s. So here we go…
Both Steves have curly hair. Sax is a brunette with cute curls and Sanders has a hair of sun bleached blonde ones. Both grew up in California but only Sax was born in the Golden State. His birthplace is Sacramento. Sanders was adopted and born in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Sanders learned his real mother was Karen Brown, not the movie star, Samantha Sanders.
Sax guest-starred on the Simpsons. Sanders acts like Bart Simpson and drank beer as often as Homer during his college years. Sax made his major league debut at second base for the L.A. Dodgers. Sanders made his 90210 debut by getting wasted at a high school party. Sax has been seen riding his Harley. Sanders drove a black corvette for most of the show. Sax said goodbye to the Dodgers in 1988 after their World Series victory. Sax went to the Yankees. Sanders said goodbye in 1998 to his best friend, Brandon Walsh, after Walsh was offered a job in Washington. Sax once called The House That Ruth Built his home. Sanders once called Casa Walsh his home.
Sax has spent time working on a sports networking website after is baseball career was over. Sanders toyed with the idea of becoming a sports agent after graduation California University. Sanders remained married the series character, Janet. Sax was married once but eventually got a divorce. Sax was known for careless throws, errors and having defensive lapses at second base. Sanders was known for his carelessness, poor judgment and academic errors. Sax was awarded NL Rookie of the Year in 1982. Sanders was awarded the Beverly Hills High legacy key his senior year. Sanders frequented the Beverly Hills Peach Pit and ran the night club, The After Dark. Sax owned a night club and restaurant in the 1990’s name Twin Palms. Sax ran for California State Assembly in 1996. Sanders helped run his fraternity in 1996.
Today, Sax manages a securities firm and wrote a book about finance. Last time we saw Sanders, he was running a tabloid newspaper and writing gossip articles. Sax had fans wearing helmets in the stands to comically protect themselves from his throws. Sanders’ friends always had to protect him from himself. He was always going after all the girls on the show too. Sax missed the batting title one year by two points. Sanders didn’t miss the half court shot at an L.A. Lakers basketball game.
Sax was a higher-up in the Baseball Players’ Association. Sanders was a higher-up in the KEG Frat House. Sax and his older brother, Dave, played minor league ball together. They also both played for the Dodgers. Sanders had two younger step-brothers he did not want to share anything with. Sax went to James Marshall High School. Sanders attended West Beverly High. Sax was a great base stealer. Sanders only stole an opposing team’s mascot in college. He did, however, cheat. Sanders actually cheated on a math placement test as a incoming CU freshmen. Sanders spent one day working at the Peach Pit. Sax spent only one season playing in Oakland. Sax wore pinstripes. Sanders sported tank tops. Sax was scrawny and scrappy. Sanders was solid, thick and muscular.
So there you have it.
Parting points: Song of the day- Santeria by Sublime
Both Steves have curly hair. Sax is a brunette with cute curls and Sanders has a hair of sun bleached blonde ones. Both grew up in California but only Sax was born in the Golden State. His birthplace is Sacramento. Sanders was adopted and born in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Sanders learned his real mother was Karen Brown, not the movie star, Samantha Sanders.
Sax guest-starred on the Simpsons. Sanders acts like Bart Simpson and drank beer as often as Homer during his college years. Sax made his major league debut at second base for the L.A. Dodgers. Sanders made his 90210 debut by getting wasted at a high school party. Sax has been seen riding his Harley. Sanders drove a black corvette for most of the show. Sax said goodbye to the Dodgers in 1988 after their World Series victory. Sax went to the Yankees. Sanders said goodbye in 1998 to his best friend, Brandon Walsh, after Walsh was offered a job in Washington. Sax once called The House That Ruth Built his home. Sanders once called Casa Walsh his home.
Sax has spent time working on a sports networking website after is baseball career was over. Sanders toyed with the idea of becoming a sports agent after graduation California University. Sanders remained married the series character, Janet. Sax was married once but eventually got a divorce. Sax was known for careless throws, errors and having defensive lapses at second base. Sanders was known for his carelessness, poor judgment and academic errors. Sax was awarded NL Rookie of the Year in 1982. Sanders was awarded the Beverly Hills High legacy key his senior year. Sanders frequented the Beverly Hills Peach Pit and ran the night club, The After Dark. Sax owned a night club and restaurant in the 1990’s name Twin Palms. Sax ran for California State Assembly in 1996. Sanders helped run his fraternity in 1996.
Today, Sax manages a securities firm and wrote a book about finance. Last time we saw Sanders, he was running a tabloid newspaper and writing gossip articles. Sax had fans wearing helmets in the stands to comically protect themselves from his throws. Sanders’ friends always had to protect him from himself. He was always going after all the girls on the show too. Sax missed the batting title one year by two points. Sanders didn’t miss the half court shot at an L.A. Lakers basketball game.
Sax was a higher-up in the Baseball Players’ Association. Sanders was a higher-up in the KEG Frat House. Sax and his older brother, Dave, played minor league ball together. They also both played for the Dodgers. Sanders had two younger step-brothers he did not want to share anything with. Sax went to James Marshall High School. Sanders attended West Beverly High. Sax was a great base stealer. Sanders only stole an opposing team’s mascot in college. He did, however, cheat. Sanders actually cheated on a math placement test as a incoming CU freshmen. Sanders spent one day working at the Peach Pit. Sax spent only one season playing in Oakland. Sax wore pinstripes. Sanders sported tank tops. Sax was scrawny and scrappy. Sanders was solid, thick and muscular.
So there you have it.
Parting points: Song of the day- Santeria by Sublime
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Casting Chamberlain
The drama of Joba Chamberlain is already starting to unfold and unravel in the Yankee theater. Joba will probably take the stage and begin his 2009 campaign as a designated starting pitcher. The great debate is whether Chamberlain should be used solely as a starter or pulled purposely from the pen.
The Yankee rotation is a good one. The Bombers resigned veteran lefty, Andy Pettitte, and added two bonifide performers in C.C. Sabathia and A.J. Burnett. Last season’s ace, Chien-Ming Wang, returns to the rotation in a lesser role as a healed hauler. The health of the staff is going to be the main question in ultimately deciding if Chamberlain is chained to start games. I think with Joba as the fourth starter, ahead of Pettitte, the Yankees have a solidified backend rotation. Andy as the fifth starter only makes him better. Chamberlain’s presence and move to the starting front would take pressure off Pettitte to perform at high levels. He fumbled down the stretch in 2008, but now the focus will be shifted to the big three and the evolution of Joba. Chamberlain will evolve as long as he keeps a consistent schedule and can contain his emotions on the mound. He is equipped to be a starter but his emotional makeup as a reliever concerns many fans. He was so successful in the role of reliever fans wonder why Brian Cashman would mess with what works. But Joba has all the goods to deliver a variety of quality starting stuff.
Phil Hughes is coming off a mediocre first season in which the expectations failed to produce a lock in the starring role. Hughes is efficient and can be a go-to arm every fifth game but he also could use some time to work out the kinks in his mechanics. Meanwhile, Joba would have the chance to prove himself and show us more. The Yankees will know quickly if moving Joba into the rotation or back to the bullpen is the right choice. Hughes or Alfredo Aceves could replace him in the rotation if the choice to keep him as a reliever is made.
It’s true Joba would ensure a dynamic duo if given the opportunity to be the 8th inning pitcher. Mariano Rivera remains the team closer, but he is coming off shoulder surgery. Number 42 could start slow coming out this Spring and Chamberlain could help close games early in the season. However, that role would mean Joba using only two pitches. If the Yankees relegated the righty to a starting position, he would need to mix in malicious alternatives. I would hate to miss out on seeing Joba work the count on hitters with his devastating curve and cool changeup.
The good part about the Yankees being somewhat undecided (even though Cashman told Joba and insists he will start) is they have enough pitching to be flexible and have a trial and error period. However, the organization cannot hesitate or wait it out too long to decide the fate of Joba. One way or another, Joba deserves an convincing answer. He commands respect in either role because of his ability and resourcefulness as a pitcher. It is likely one of the current pegged starting pitchers will suffer an ailment at some point in 2009. That is just the nature of the long baseball year. A guaranteed Joba would grant a gifted gamer and shutdown solution against opponents. The bullpen is weaker without Joba but the starting rotation also suffers without his talent on display. He is built to start and accustomed to being in there. Imagine opposing teams with the fear factor instilled before the first pitch is thrown instead of the final inning leading up to his entrance.
Parting points: The Devils are still on a roll in hockey land. I see few weaknesses in this team but they are probably going to let me down come playoff time anyway.
The Yankee rotation is a good one. The Bombers resigned veteran lefty, Andy Pettitte, and added two bonifide performers in C.C. Sabathia and A.J. Burnett. Last season’s ace, Chien-Ming Wang, returns to the rotation in a lesser role as a healed hauler. The health of the staff is going to be the main question in ultimately deciding if Chamberlain is chained to start games. I think with Joba as the fourth starter, ahead of Pettitte, the Yankees have a solidified backend rotation. Andy as the fifth starter only makes him better. Chamberlain’s presence and move to the starting front would take pressure off Pettitte to perform at high levels. He fumbled down the stretch in 2008, but now the focus will be shifted to the big three and the evolution of Joba. Chamberlain will evolve as long as he keeps a consistent schedule and can contain his emotions on the mound. He is equipped to be a starter but his emotional makeup as a reliever concerns many fans. He was so successful in the role of reliever fans wonder why Brian Cashman would mess with what works. But Joba has all the goods to deliver a variety of quality starting stuff.
Phil Hughes is coming off a mediocre first season in which the expectations failed to produce a lock in the starring role. Hughes is efficient and can be a go-to arm every fifth game but he also could use some time to work out the kinks in his mechanics. Meanwhile, Joba would have the chance to prove himself and show us more. The Yankees will know quickly if moving Joba into the rotation or back to the bullpen is the right choice. Hughes or Alfredo Aceves could replace him in the rotation if the choice to keep him as a reliever is made.
It’s true Joba would ensure a dynamic duo if given the opportunity to be the 8th inning pitcher. Mariano Rivera remains the team closer, but he is coming off shoulder surgery. Number 42 could start slow coming out this Spring and Chamberlain could help close games early in the season. However, that role would mean Joba using only two pitches. If the Yankees relegated the righty to a starting position, he would need to mix in malicious alternatives. I would hate to miss out on seeing Joba work the count on hitters with his devastating curve and cool changeup.
The good part about the Yankees being somewhat undecided (even though Cashman told Joba and insists he will start) is they have enough pitching to be flexible and have a trial and error period. However, the organization cannot hesitate or wait it out too long to decide the fate of Joba. One way or another, Joba deserves an convincing answer. He commands respect in either role because of his ability and resourcefulness as a pitcher. It is likely one of the current pegged starting pitchers will suffer an ailment at some point in 2009. That is just the nature of the long baseball year. A guaranteed Joba would grant a gifted gamer and shutdown solution against opponents. The bullpen is weaker without Joba but the starting rotation also suffers without his talent on display. He is built to start and accustomed to being in there. Imagine opposing teams with the fear factor instilled before the first pitch is thrown instead of the final inning leading up to his entrance.
Parting points: The Devils are still on a roll in hockey land. I see few weaknesses in this team but they are probably going to let me down come playoff time anyway.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Great Gretzky
There are very few athletes who define, embody and enlighten their sport. Michael Jordan is basketball. Babe Ruth is baseball. Wayne Gretzky is hockey. Today the Great One, number 99, celebrates his birthday. I can’t think of a greater or more gifted athlete in my lifetime than Gretzky. What began in Edmonton in 1978 and ended in 1999 with the New York Rangers was a dominant, stellar and impressive professional career. The Canadian currently calls the Coyotes his team because he is a part-owner and head coach for the upstart Phoenix franchise.
Wayne was born in Ontario and dubbed “the Great Gretzky” at the ripe young age of 6. As a first-grader, Gretzky glowed on the ice. He played alongside 10 year-olds and skated his way up the amateur hockey ranks. By age 13, the teenage phenom notched 1,000 goals as a peewee player. Gretzky didn’t even have a license to drive a car but the Ontario Hockey Association came calling for him to drive their league. Sticks, skates and all, Wayne requested the number 9 jersey. The number was previously worn by Gretzky’s hero, Gordie Howe. Nine wasn’t available so Wayne settled for 99.
The true greatness of Gretzky was just beginning to show glimpses Wayne whipped his way through the World Hockey Association, compiling records and awards by the glove-full. He was considered the smartest player on the ice most games. Gretzky could skate with surefire speed, read defenses, trick the toughest goalies and handle the puck with prominent precision and accuracy. He adapted to all his opponents and essentially changed the game as a young star. He played with the Edmonton Oilers in his first NHL game. In 1983, Wayne’s 51 game consecutive scoring streak stood at everybody’s attention. The four time Stanley Cup winning Oilers were a force in the NHL thanks to the great number 99. Wayne’s passing ability advanced his status. He became an elite worldwide player and proved himself a national hero by helping his team win the 1987 Canada Cup. Wayne cemented himself a true legend in hockey lore when he joined the L.A.Kings.
I became a Kings fan in part because of the classy way Wayne looked in his uniform. When he went to L.A., the Great One helped them to the 1993 Stanley Cup finals. I remember the seven game series leading to the finals. L.A. beat Toronto in that brutal and crucial series. They were let down when Montreal defeated them for the Stanley Cup but those games defined my devotion to Gretzky. He was, in my mind, the best athlete I had ever seen in a single sport. He was better than Jordan in my eyes. Gretzky carried the Kings on his back and handled the pressure of the spotlight. He had to learn how to deal with adversity and being the center of attention from a young age. I compare what Wayne probably dealt with to what Lebron James is going through now. Wayne was pegged to be a megastar before he even was one. As a teenager, the expectations were so enormous and the potential unlimited. He lived up to all those expectations. Gretzky has more points and assists than any player in history. The nine time MVP won more annual trophies than any athlete in a team sport. Today, he has a lot to celebrate and to be proud of.
Parting points: I read the first book written by Tom Verducci and Joe Torre after the Yankees won the 1996 World Series. I am looking forward to Joe’s highly-touted new book coming out next week too.
Wayne was born in Ontario and dubbed “the Great Gretzky” at the ripe young age of 6. As a first-grader, Gretzky glowed on the ice. He played alongside 10 year-olds and skated his way up the amateur hockey ranks. By age 13, the teenage phenom notched 1,000 goals as a peewee player. Gretzky didn’t even have a license to drive a car but the Ontario Hockey Association came calling for him to drive their league. Sticks, skates and all, Wayne requested the number 9 jersey. The number was previously worn by Gretzky’s hero, Gordie Howe. Nine wasn’t available so Wayne settled for 99.
The true greatness of Gretzky was just beginning to show glimpses Wayne whipped his way through the World Hockey Association, compiling records and awards by the glove-full. He was considered the smartest player on the ice most games. Gretzky could skate with surefire speed, read defenses, trick the toughest goalies and handle the puck with prominent precision and accuracy. He adapted to all his opponents and essentially changed the game as a young star. He played with the Edmonton Oilers in his first NHL game. In 1983, Wayne’s 51 game consecutive scoring streak stood at everybody’s attention. The four time Stanley Cup winning Oilers were a force in the NHL thanks to the great number 99. Wayne’s passing ability advanced his status. He became an elite worldwide player and proved himself a national hero by helping his team win the 1987 Canada Cup. Wayne cemented himself a true legend in hockey lore when he joined the L.A.Kings.
I became a Kings fan in part because of the classy way Wayne looked in his uniform. When he went to L.A., the Great One helped them to the 1993 Stanley Cup finals. I remember the seven game series leading to the finals. L.A. beat Toronto in that brutal and crucial series. They were let down when Montreal defeated them for the Stanley Cup but those games defined my devotion to Gretzky. He was, in my mind, the best athlete I had ever seen in a single sport. He was better than Jordan in my eyes. Gretzky carried the Kings on his back and handled the pressure of the spotlight. He had to learn how to deal with adversity and being the center of attention from a young age. I compare what Wayne probably dealt with to what Lebron James is going through now. Wayne was pegged to be a megastar before he even was one. As a teenager, the expectations were so enormous and the potential unlimited. He lived up to all those expectations. Gretzky has more points and assists than any player in history. The nine time MVP won more annual trophies than any athlete in a team sport. Today, he has a lot to celebrate and to be proud of.
Parting points: I read the first book written by Tom Verducci and Joe Torre after the Yankees won the 1996 World Series. I am looking forward to Joe’s highly-touted new book coming out next week too.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Arizona Allstars
The ballots are cast and the votes in for the 2009 NBA All-star game in Phoenix Arizona. The game is set for February 15th, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Love is being shown for the following starters:
Eastern Conference- Dwyane Wade, Kevin Garnett, Dwight Howard, Lebron James, Allen Iverson
Western Conference- Kobe Bryant, Amar’e Stoudemire, Chris Paul, Tim Duncan, Yao Ming
The U.S. Airways Center plays host to the annual allstar game. The week-long festivities are always fame-filled frenzies. This year is sure to be another memorable one. Eastern guards, Allen Iverson and Dwyane Wade are all-around fearless shooters. The Detroit star Iverson is playing in his 10th Allstar game in hist 13th year in the NBA. AI has led the league in scoring four times. His explosive and scorching ball handling will be on display next month for sure. Wade has a less flamboyant and less cocky approach, but is still an aggressive player than Iverson. He is without a doubt the leader for Miami’s potent offense. He is also a better defensive player than AI. Wade, in his 5th Allstar appearance, will be an asset in assists and rebounds for the East. Center, Dwight Howard, received the most Allstar votes this year. The Magic Olympic medal winner is a very physical post player. He brings a winning attitude and formula every game in Orlando and is well deserving as an Allstar leader. Forwards Lebron James and Kevin Garnett round out the conference starting five. James needs no introduction. He is the front runner for this year’s MVP and has developed into one of the greatest to play the game. Lebron’s versatility combined with Garnett’s experience and selfless style will be worth watching. KG is in his 14th year and consistently leads the league in field goal percentage and rebounding. He was the best player on the championship Celtics last year and was MVP during the 2003 Allstar game.
The Western conference perennially boasts as better all around but I am sure the East will not rollover. Kobe Bryant and Chris Paul are arguably the two best guards in the NBA. Wade and Iverson are great but Kobe and Chris have the raw talent to be considered the better duo. Bryant and AI both have at least 20,000 career points, joining Shaquille O’Neal as the only active players with that amount. Kobe is a two-time MVP in Allstar games and brings his complete game to this year’s match. Paul is notably one of the best young players today and definitely the best to come out of Wake Forest. Number three is exciting and excels in steals and assists. Paul challenged Kobe for the league MVP last season, and his Hornets will be playoff contenders as long as he carries the ball there. Tim Duncan court presence and leadership represent the best forward in the league. He is a hard to defend, great at protecting the ball and a big man on the court whenever he appears. Duncan has four NBA titles with the Spurs and all the fundamental skills to produce another one in San Antonio with a little help from his teammates and great coaching. Amar’e Stoudemire joins Duncan at forward for the Western team. In his third Allstar selection Stoudemire’s power and strength are hard to counter. The former rookie of the year is often overlooked but his statistics don’t lie. He knows how to bring it. Center, Yao Ming, rounds out the West with his massive 6 ft 7 frame. The popular Houston Rocket is often injured but when he is healthy, can shoot free throws with the best of them. A true blocking center, Ming is a number one draft pick and future Hall of Fame candidate.
The outcome of the game really does not matter. I like seeing the stars come out to play. The game is more about showing off than actual basketball usually. Unlike other Allstar games, the NBA’s version of the best is more about the players and celebrities s than the fans.
Parting points: I am still reading “The Beautiful and the Damned” by F.Scott Fitzgerald. I am glued to it now that I am almost done. The book took a strange turn late.
Eastern Conference- Dwyane Wade, Kevin Garnett, Dwight Howard, Lebron James, Allen Iverson
Western Conference- Kobe Bryant, Amar’e Stoudemire, Chris Paul, Tim Duncan, Yao Ming
The U.S. Airways Center plays host to the annual allstar game. The week-long festivities are always fame-filled frenzies. This year is sure to be another memorable one. Eastern guards, Allen Iverson and Dwyane Wade are all-around fearless shooters. The Detroit star Iverson is playing in his 10th Allstar game in hist 13th year in the NBA. AI has led the league in scoring four times. His explosive and scorching ball handling will be on display next month for sure. Wade has a less flamboyant and less cocky approach, but is still an aggressive player than Iverson. He is without a doubt the leader for Miami’s potent offense. He is also a better defensive player than AI. Wade, in his 5th Allstar appearance, will be an asset in assists and rebounds for the East. Center, Dwight Howard, received the most Allstar votes this year. The Magic Olympic medal winner is a very physical post player. He brings a winning attitude and formula every game in Orlando and is well deserving as an Allstar leader. Forwards Lebron James and Kevin Garnett round out the conference starting five. James needs no introduction. He is the front runner for this year’s MVP and has developed into one of the greatest to play the game. Lebron’s versatility combined with Garnett’s experience and selfless style will be worth watching. KG is in his 14th year and consistently leads the league in field goal percentage and rebounding. He was the best player on the championship Celtics last year and was MVP during the 2003 Allstar game.
The Western conference perennially boasts as better all around but I am sure the East will not rollover. Kobe Bryant and Chris Paul are arguably the two best guards in the NBA. Wade and Iverson are great but Kobe and Chris have the raw talent to be considered the better duo. Bryant and AI both have at least 20,000 career points, joining Shaquille O’Neal as the only active players with that amount. Kobe is a two-time MVP in Allstar games and brings his complete game to this year’s match. Paul is notably one of the best young players today and definitely the best to come out of Wake Forest. Number three is exciting and excels in steals and assists. Paul challenged Kobe for the league MVP last season, and his Hornets will be playoff contenders as long as he carries the ball there. Tim Duncan court presence and leadership represent the best forward in the league. He is a hard to defend, great at protecting the ball and a big man on the court whenever he appears. Duncan has four NBA titles with the Spurs and all the fundamental skills to produce another one in San Antonio with a little help from his teammates and great coaching. Amar’e Stoudemire joins Duncan at forward for the Western team. In his third Allstar selection Stoudemire’s power and strength are hard to counter. The former rookie of the year is often overlooked but his statistics don’t lie. He knows how to bring it. Center, Yao Ming, rounds out the West with his massive 6 ft 7 frame. The popular Houston Rocket is often injured but when he is healthy, can shoot free throws with the best of them. A true blocking center, Ming is a number one draft pick and future Hall of Fame candidate.
The outcome of the game really does not matter. I like seeing the stars come out to play. The game is more about showing off than actual basketball usually. Unlike other Allstar games, the NBA’s version of the best is more about the players and celebrities s than the fans.
Parting points: I am still reading “The Beautiful and the Damned” by F.Scott Fitzgerald. I am glued to it now that I am almost done. The book took a strange turn late.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Bring Beautiful Baseball
It’s roughly 20 days until pitchers and catchers report according to MLB.com. Here are 20 reasons to tune into baseball in 2009:
20) The MLB Network debut. If you have access to the channel, I can’t see any real drawbacks to being able to see games from around the league everyday.
19) The Rays’ David Price’s first full season as a starting pitcher. This guy is going to set the league on fire down in Tampa.
18) Ozzie Guillen is always a charismatic character to cry and complain in Chitown. I am sure we’ll be hearing from him in no time once again, especially now that President Obama is the number one White Sox fan.
17) Dontrelle Willis is off the DL and healthy again in Detroit. Look for him to bounce back and get his high leg kick in gear for the underachieving Tigers.
16) How will Chipper Jones hit when he visits New York? He practically owned Shea Stadium and the new CitiField is supposed to be even more hitter-friendly. Speaking of the tomahawks, they have a promising prospect with potential in pitcher, Tommy Hansen. Hansen might be in their rotation as soon as this Spring.
15) Can the Chicago Cubs break their post-season curse? Probably not this year.
14) How soon before the Mets fans start referring to their new relief pitcher J.J. as simply “Putz” (in the literal sense)?
13) Manny being Manny again---somewhere.
12) Who will be the first manager canned? Better yet, who will have more wins, the Pirates, Royals or Nationals?
11) How will Michael Young like the transition from SS to 3B? Maybe he will put up Arod numbers. Let’s just hope he can hit in the clutch and won’t start dating Madonna.
10) Were the 2008 Rays just a fluke? They dropped the Devil and I think they are for real.
9) John Smoltz’s debut for the Red Sox against the Yankees will be fun.
8) How many pitchers will win 20 games? Roy Halladay will and he will still fly under the radar in Toronto.
7) The use of instant replay will probably be employed often.
6) Krod’s New York debut
5) New stadiums in New York. Which sluggers will hit the first homeruns in the new parks?
4) Can the Phillies repeat as World Champions?
3) You have to keep an eye on the Mets late in the season. Will they avoid another collapse or can they go for a third straight falling out?
2) C.C., A.J. and Tex in pinstripes. Enough said.
1) Baseball is America’s pastime and always will be.
3 more reasons:
3) Pre-season games
2) Regular season games
1) Post-season games
Parting points: Today’s celebrity birthdays of note:
Tiffani-Amber Theissen- The Buffalo bad girl Valerie Malone of 90210 fame and caring, Kelly Kapowski of Saved By the Bell
Tony Lucca- former Mickey Mouse Club member and singer
William Cunningam of the Box Tops (I love the song “The Letter”)
Humphrey Bogart- it may or may not be his actual birthday. Check out the controversy here: www.snopes.com/movies/actors/bogartbirthday.asp
In honor of Tiffani, here is my favorite Valerie Malone quote: “These people are such avocado heads.”
20) The MLB Network debut. If you have access to the channel, I can’t see any real drawbacks to being able to see games from around the league everyday.
19) The Rays’ David Price’s first full season as a starting pitcher. This guy is going to set the league on fire down in Tampa.
18) Ozzie Guillen is always a charismatic character to cry and complain in Chitown. I am sure we’ll be hearing from him in no time once again, especially now that President Obama is the number one White Sox fan.
17) Dontrelle Willis is off the DL and healthy again in Detroit. Look for him to bounce back and get his high leg kick in gear for the underachieving Tigers.
16) How will Chipper Jones hit when he visits New York? He practically owned Shea Stadium and the new CitiField is supposed to be even more hitter-friendly. Speaking of the tomahawks, they have a promising prospect with potential in pitcher, Tommy Hansen. Hansen might be in their rotation as soon as this Spring.
15) Can the Chicago Cubs break their post-season curse? Probably not this year.
14) How soon before the Mets fans start referring to their new relief pitcher J.J. as simply “Putz” (in the literal sense)?
13) Manny being Manny again---somewhere.
12) Who will be the first manager canned? Better yet, who will have more wins, the Pirates, Royals or Nationals?
11) How will Michael Young like the transition from SS to 3B? Maybe he will put up Arod numbers. Let’s just hope he can hit in the clutch and won’t start dating Madonna.
10) Were the 2008 Rays just a fluke? They dropped the Devil and I think they are for real.
9) John Smoltz’s debut for the Red Sox against the Yankees will be fun.
8) How many pitchers will win 20 games? Roy Halladay will and he will still fly under the radar in Toronto.
7) The use of instant replay will probably be employed often.
6) Krod’s New York debut
5) New stadiums in New York. Which sluggers will hit the first homeruns in the new parks?
4) Can the Phillies repeat as World Champions?
3) You have to keep an eye on the Mets late in the season. Will they avoid another collapse or can they go for a third straight falling out?
2) C.C., A.J. and Tex in pinstripes. Enough said.
1) Baseball is America’s pastime and always will be.
3 more reasons:
3) Pre-season games
2) Regular season games
1) Post-season games
Parting points: Today’s celebrity birthdays of note:
Tiffani-Amber Theissen- The Buffalo bad girl Valerie Malone of 90210 fame and caring, Kelly Kapowski of Saved By the Bell
Tony Lucca- former Mickey Mouse Club member and singer
William Cunningam of the Box Tops (I love the song “The Letter”)
Humphrey Bogart- it may or may not be his actual birthday. Check out the controversy here: www.snopes.com/movies/actors/bogartbirthday.asp
In honor of Tiffani, here is my favorite Valerie Malone quote: “These people are such avocado heads.”
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Thursday Take Twos
After the exciting NFC and AFC Championship weekend, there haven’t been many sports stories since. In New York, Gang Green hired their next head coach. Rex Ryan, former defensive coordinator in Baltimore, will replace Eric Mangini. Ryan will call plays for the Jets but it’s still unknown whether or not Brett Favre will be back. My opinion is to look elsewhere for a quarterback. Ryan needs to start his head coaching career with a clean slate. Favre’s future figures to fix the flailing Jets, but his gun slinging gambles clearly don’t make the cut with the current crop of players. New York should focus on building and solidifying the defense, especially up front. A strong tackling and pass rushing defense would lay the foundation and perhaps the Jets could acquire someone in free agency like a Ray Lewis. As for the quarterback, the draft might be the best option if there aren’t any decent available trade options. The Jets have a legitimate running back, Thomas Jones. They also have a playmaker in Leon Washington. Favre is too selfish a star to be the signal-caller. The AFC East is New York’s for the taking if Tom Brady sits out another year in New England.
What are the Mets waiting for? Sign Manny Ramirez for two years please. If it doesn’t work out, there are no long-term obligations. If Manny succeeds and the team wakes up to make the playoffs, the move would be a huge payoff for Omar Minaya. Maybe Ramirez would remain in Queens for the remainder of his Hall of Fame career. He is a New York native and the flair the Mets desperately need.
Jeff Kent announced his retirement from baseball yesterday.
The New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils have battled it out this week for first place but it is the Devils who head into the all-star break as number one.
Venus Williams fell victim to the 46th ranked Spanish player down under today.
Wake Forest lost a heartbreaker at home to Virginia Tech 78-71 for their first loss of the season.
The Islanders a rumored to be moving to Kansas City in the future but they finally notched their first game of 2009.
And finally, some team out there actually wants Stephon Marbury. The belligerent baldheaded basketball player could be shipped to a team in Greece.
What are the Mets waiting for? Sign Manny Ramirez for two years please. If it doesn’t work out, there are no long-term obligations. If Manny succeeds and the team wakes up to make the playoffs, the move would be a huge payoff for Omar Minaya. Maybe Ramirez would remain in Queens for the remainder of his Hall of Fame career. He is a New York native and the flair the Mets desperately need.
Jeff Kent announced his retirement from baseball yesterday.
The New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils have battled it out this week for first place but it is the Devils who head into the all-star break as number one.
Venus Williams fell victim to the 46th ranked Spanish player down under today.
Wake Forest lost a heartbreaker at home to Virginia Tech 78-71 for their first loss of the season.
The Islanders a rumored to be moving to Kansas City in the future but they finally notched their first game of 2009.
And finally, some team out there actually wants Stephon Marbury. The belligerent baldheaded basketball player could be shipped to a team in Greece.
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