My home video collection captures an October 13, 1960 homerun no baseball fan may ever forget. I have a “greatest moments” in sports history VHS collecting dust on my bookshelf in my bedroom. Today I popped it in my VCR and fast-forwarded to moment #7. This day, 48 years ago, Bill Mazeroski launched a game-winning, championship walk-off 408 ft homerun to beat the New York Yankees in the World Series. The 1960 Forbes Field moment ended Game 7 in the most dramatic fashion. The score was tied 9-9 in the bottom of the ninth when the Wheeling, W.V. native leadoff against Yankees pitcher, Ralph Terry. The moment is so surreal and I can’t even imagine the emotions Maz must have felt. He wasn’t expected to hit a homerun. The Pirates were not the favorites to beat the Yankees. Pittsburgh was clearly overmatched against the team average 12 runs per game and racking up crazy offensive statistics. The gritty Steeltown team was down 7-4 in a seesaw Game 7 when Bill Virdon came to bat in the 8th inning for Pittsburgh. Virdon hit a nasty ground ball to Yankees shortstop, Tony Kubek. The ball took a bad hop and hit Kubek in the mouth. He immediately jerked his hand to his throat and was thrust to the infield, reeling to his right. The video shows him lying still for several moments before the umpire and teammates consoled him. Pittsburgh went on to score five runs that inning and take the lead. But, Mantle, Yogi and the Yankees soared back with two runs in their half of the ninth inning. Maz strolled to the plate in the tie game and the rest is history. Circling the first two bases, the helmet-less Maz was composed. But after he rounded second base, you could see the jubilation. He couldn’t contain the emotion. He was mobbed at home plate by Clemente and the rest of the underdog Pirates team. Terry played four more seasons for New York and gave up 108 more homeruns during his time in pinstripes. Bill Mazerowski played his entire career as a Buc and hit 138 more homeruns. I am sure Terry will never forget at least one homerun he surrended, and Maz most certainly cannot ever disregard his famous blast.
I was trying to think of my Maz moment. The closest I could come up with was a college tennis match as a sophomore. I was playing number one single for SUNY Fredonia at Buffalo State college. I won the first set against a player I previously lost in three sets to. I was very much looking forward to this rematch and was ecstatic after beating her in the first set. But, I dropped the second set with some careless mistakes and costly errors. The score was close, but it was the final set score that mattered. Since a third set was forced, I knew I would be the last player on the court. All the other matches were over or very close to ending. The lights were on and the sun was going down. Both teams had on their jackets and warm up pants. Some were even wearing gloves, hats and scarves. The October evening brought a collective chill.
Everyone gathered around court number one to witness the final deciding set between each team’s best players. At the time, I had no idea whether my match would decide which team won that day. It did happen to matter. All I knew was I wanted that win. It was neither a World Series nor anything close to being a championship event. The audience probably could care less about the outcome as long as they were home soon. But to me, it meant the world. It meant pushing myself beyond anything I could ever imagine. I literally was physically exhausted having only snacked on grapes and Gatorade in between sets. I remember going to the visiting locker room for a bathroom break, looking myself in the mirror and telling myself I was going to do anything to win this match. It’s baffling to me how I pulled out that win. How adrenaline is something you just cannot explain. How you keep focus when everything spells pressure around you. How the sweat on your forehead is so pronounced you can see the droplets on your eyelashes without trying to look. How you are your own worst enemy and your own best friend, all alone on a tennis court fighting each point as if it was the last time you would ever hit the ball. How nothing else matters because you are so locked in, so in the zone. How the ball seems to stick out like a sore thumb and blocking out any distraction is as easy as saying your ABCs. How when your heart just knows you have to keep going because if you stop now you will be letting it down. And when it’s all over and you win the match, your teammates smiles make you want to cry. And you cry. You cry because you did something real. You accomplished something bigger than yourself. You grew up with this game and even if it’s for only a moment, you are grateful for the time you reaped the benefits. One moment can last a lifetime. This is what Maz must have felt that October 13th. He probably felt it more.
Today was a perfect day for playing tennis. The mild and warm weather is conducive for the game. The red, yellow and brown tint of the trees’ shapely leaves make me yearn for the breadth of the tennis court. My home away from home, the perfect playing surface only gets enhanced with enchanting backdrops. I think about all the nice autumn afternoons in high school during tennis practice. These days were my favorite because the school day was over and the only care I had was hitting the ball back and forth. I especially enjoyed listening to the soccer horn or the football coach screaming out schemes in the background. Here and there, a moist leaf would flutter to the front of the service line and linger until the slightest breeze shifted its state.
Tennis in the fall means cotton socks, soft hooded sweatshirts and double-pocketed, neatly-ironed shorts. It means tightly laced sneakers and embroidered T-shirts. It means seeing the sun through the surrounding fence and looking at the panorama of foliage beyond the wooded forest. Autumn tennis is sitting on a metal bleacher seat sipping water and eating freshly picked apples. It encompasses everything beautiful about living in NY and growing up playing tennis for a purpose.
The crack of a bat in Game 7. The crack of a leaf on the tennis court. These moments do not last forever but the memories provide everlasting emotions.
Parting points: Listen to “Rise Above This” by Seether for a surprisingly soothing song
“Under their feet, the grass was fresh; beautiful shadows of branches flickered upon it, and speckled it; hedgerows were luxuriant; everything was at peace.”—Chapter VI, The Starlight from Charles Dickens’ Hard Times.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Michael & Mario Mend Miami
Forward Michael Beasley and guard Mario Chalmers covet getting their feet wet for the Miami Heat this stellar season. The two NBA novices hail from Kansas State and Kansas, respectively. If you scan the college hoops highlight reels from 2007-08, a heavy emphasis was placed on these big game players. Beasley was arguably the most prominent player in college basketball despite playing for small-time Kansas State. He was Miami’s number one selection during the draft, and second player chosen overall. Beasley was one of the hardest workers on his team in college. When he applies himself, there is nothing he can’t do on the court. From in-game ploys and strategy, he is a student of the game. The sky is the limit for the former Wildcat. He brought so much to the table for an unforgettable four years at Kansas State. Beasley set the single season points, scoring average, rebounds, free throws and field goals records. He had a total of 13 30-point games during one year. Three times in one year he scored 40 points in a game. Rebounding is where the Heat will see rewards with Beasley on the roster. His left-handed, leaping quickness fosters his rebounding aptitude.
Bill Self’s Kansas team won the national championship last year with Mario Chalmers at the helm. The 22 year old 27th overall draft pick is an aggressive strong man who earned a reputation as a player who takes advantage of loose balls and finding the open basket. He scored the decisive game winning basket during March Madness. The three point shot stymied the opposition, sending the game into overtime. Chalmers is a complete delight to catch sight of on the hardwood. I remember watching him come up as a freshman in Kansas and finish second on the team in points per game. From that season, he only improved. I will feel an emptiness watching the Jayhawks this year without Chalmers. I considered him the best overall player at Kansas. He just makes everyone around him better.
The Jayhawks’ Super Mario should be an impact player in Miami. Beasley and Chalmers can mimic Mario and Luigi dodging opponents, dashing to the basket and launching the pick-and-roll. I am looking forward to their production with the combination of shooting guard, Dwyane Wade. Chalmers will most likely not start. He is slated to backup veteran PG, Marcus Banks. And Beasley might have to sit on the bench before replacing PF Udonis Haslem for some time. The Heat having nothing to lose by trying out their rated rookies. Give Beasley a chance to work with Wade and throw in a little Chalmers. The Heat will be successful once the formula is formed.
The Miami Heat are coming off a disgraceful 15-67 2007 season. They are desperate to rise again in the East. I like the second year guard, Daequan Cook, from Ohio State, and the recent pickup of Shaun Livingston. Livingston is a gifted passer. Former UNLV’s Shawn Marion will also be of assistance to Wade and company. He is great in the steals and rebounds department for sure. Center, Jamaal Magliore, could miss some time with a hand injury early in this season. Mark Blount will likely start at center for first year coach Erik Spoelstra’s famished team. David Padgett might be the better choice at the position.
Parting points: It was another wild weekend in the college football world. LSU was creamed by Florida, USC demolished Arizona State and Texas did pull off the upset at the Cotton Bowl. There will be a new number one now that the Sooners have one loss. Missouri certainly didn’t help their ranking by losing the Oklahoma State. I can’t see the pollsters picking Penn State as number one. They are 7-0 but an SEC, Pac-10 or Big 12 team will be chosen ahead of any Big 10 team. I was very impressed with Texas’ win, but doubt they will rise to the premier position either. Either way, it will be interesting come Monday’s new AP Poll.
Bill Self’s Kansas team won the national championship last year with Mario Chalmers at the helm. The 22 year old 27th overall draft pick is an aggressive strong man who earned a reputation as a player who takes advantage of loose balls and finding the open basket. He scored the decisive game winning basket during March Madness. The three point shot stymied the opposition, sending the game into overtime. Chalmers is a complete delight to catch sight of on the hardwood. I remember watching him come up as a freshman in Kansas and finish second on the team in points per game. From that season, he only improved. I will feel an emptiness watching the Jayhawks this year without Chalmers. I considered him the best overall player at Kansas. He just makes everyone around him better.
The Jayhawks’ Super Mario should be an impact player in Miami. Beasley and Chalmers can mimic Mario and Luigi dodging opponents, dashing to the basket and launching the pick-and-roll. I am looking forward to their production with the combination of shooting guard, Dwyane Wade. Chalmers will most likely not start. He is slated to backup veteran PG, Marcus Banks. And Beasley might have to sit on the bench before replacing PF Udonis Haslem for some time. The Heat having nothing to lose by trying out their rated rookies. Give Beasley a chance to work with Wade and throw in a little Chalmers. The Heat will be successful once the formula is formed.
The Miami Heat are coming off a disgraceful 15-67 2007 season. They are desperate to rise again in the East. I like the second year guard, Daequan Cook, from Ohio State, and the recent pickup of Shaun Livingston. Livingston is a gifted passer. Former UNLV’s Shawn Marion will also be of assistance to Wade and company. He is great in the steals and rebounds department for sure. Center, Jamaal Magliore, could miss some time with a hand injury early in this season. Mark Blount will likely start at center for first year coach Erik Spoelstra’s famished team. David Padgett might be the better choice at the position.
Parting points: It was another wild weekend in the college football world. LSU was creamed by Florida, USC demolished Arizona State and Texas did pull off the upset at the Cotton Bowl. There will be a new number one now that the Sooners have one loss. Missouri certainly didn’t help their ranking by losing the Oklahoma State. I can’t see the pollsters picking Penn State as number one. They are 7-0 but an SEC, Pac-10 or Big 12 team will be chosen ahead of any Big 10 team. I was very impressed with Texas’ win, but doubt they will rise to the premier position either. Either way, it will be interesting come Monday’s new AP Poll.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Cautious Coughlin Coaches in Cleveland
The 1-3 Cleveland Browns host an undefeated gnarly group of Giants Monday night in what should be another annihilation for New York. The obliterating offense led by lackadaisical Eli Manning has been strong, solid, sound and stable so far this short season. I am remaining cautiously optimistic about the Giants because they really haven’t faced a legitimate contending team outside of Washington.
The Browns have not scored more than 12 points against any of their opponents this year. Last week the team had a much-needed bye. Cleveland was winless after their first three games but those were against tougher teams. A 10-28 loss to Dallas in week one was understandable. The Browns were not expected to beat the Cowboys. They also were not anticipating attaining any sort of win against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Even with Big Ben hurt in week two, the Steelers prevailed, though it was slight. The 10-6 Pittsburgh win wasn’t really as close as it appears. In the third loss, the Ravens played as fair as the Browns during a week three 38-10 victory. Baltimore’s rookie, Joe Flaco, upstaged Cleveland’s Derek Anderson. He did throw three interceptions to Anderson’s two. The one touchdown thrown by Flaco flopped into the hands of Jerome Harrison for a 19 yard reception. Ed Reed’s 32 yard interception return for a touchdown put Baltimore in the driver’s seat and ended Anderson’s hopes of turning the game around in favor of the Browns.
Week four was the best of the bunch for the Browns. Talented receiver, Braylon Edwards, caught his first touchdown pass in the 20-12 victory over Cincinnati. The Bengals were penalized during the last Cleveland scoring drive when an interception was overturned. If not for that penalty, the Browns could be heading into the Giants’ game with zero wins on the year. Anderson did not have a great game against the Bengals at all. He only completed half of his passes (6 of 12) for 48 total yards. Kicker, Phil Dawson, has been the bright spot because he’s seen plenty of leg action so far. The Browns cannot seem to come up with big scoring drives, settling for three points on field goals. They also have not run the ball well. Jamal Lewis scored the team’s first rushing touchdown in week four. The Browns are 31st in points per game and 32nd in yards per game in the NFL. With Brady Quinn of Notre Dame fame waiting in the wings as backup to Anderson, we might see a change soon at quarterback. Romeo Crennel doesn’t have anything to lose by placing Quinn behind center. Most likely, he will not do any worse than Anderson, who had a terrific 2007 season. It appears to be only a fluke at this point.
The Giants come into Cleveland with high expectations. Tom Coughlin has his team headed in the right direction for sure. The schedule doesn’t get any easier after the next two weeks, heading into November however. Coughlin is a calm coach and knows how to keep his players in line. The Giants can’t look past these Browns. Even though tight end, Kellen Winslow, could be out for Monday night, wide receiver, Donte Stallworth, is probably going to make his season debut. If Anderson can get anything going against a tenacious Giants’ defense, they may have a chance. I can’t imagine New York losing in Cleveland. Eli Manning has clearly shown his capabilities and Brandon Jacobs is angry heading into the game already. Jacobs will come up big again this week. With Plaxico Burress’ return and the emergence of Steve Smith and Dominick Hixon as wideouts, look for a high scoring, high power offense on Monday night. Cleveland could be out of this game by halftime if the Giants’ defense forces the Browns to three and outs in the early part of the game. The Browns are having a disappointing season and I think it will only get worse as they are host to a national audience this week. This is hardly a statement game for New York, but if they win big, perhaps some of the doubters out there will remain silent.
Parting points: Backtrack of the day: Stone Temple Pilots’ “Interstate Love Song”. It’s one of the greatest driving songs.
The Browns have not scored more than 12 points against any of their opponents this year. Last week the team had a much-needed bye. Cleveland was winless after their first three games but those were against tougher teams. A 10-28 loss to Dallas in week one was understandable. The Browns were not expected to beat the Cowboys. They also were not anticipating attaining any sort of win against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Even with Big Ben hurt in week two, the Steelers prevailed, though it was slight. The 10-6 Pittsburgh win wasn’t really as close as it appears. In the third loss, the Ravens played as fair as the Browns during a week three 38-10 victory. Baltimore’s rookie, Joe Flaco, upstaged Cleveland’s Derek Anderson. He did throw three interceptions to Anderson’s two. The one touchdown thrown by Flaco flopped into the hands of Jerome Harrison for a 19 yard reception. Ed Reed’s 32 yard interception return for a touchdown put Baltimore in the driver’s seat and ended Anderson’s hopes of turning the game around in favor of the Browns.
Week four was the best of the bunch for the Browns. Talented receiver, Braylon Edwards, caught his first touchdown pass in the 20-12 victory over Cincinnati. The Bengals were penalized during the last Cleveland scoring drive when an interception was overturned. If not for that penalty, the Browns could be heading into the Giants’ game with zero wins on the year. Anderson did not have a great game against the Bengals at all. He only completed half of his passes (6 of 12) for 48 total yards. Kicker, Phil Dawson, has been the bright spot because he’s seen plenty of leg action so far. The Browns cannot seem to come up with big scoring drives, settling for three points on field goals. They also have not run the ball well. Jamal Lewis scored the team’s first rushing touchdown in week four. The Browns are 31st in points per game and 32nd in yards per game in the NFL. With Brady Quinn of Notre Dame fame waiting in the wings as backup to Anderson, we might see a change soon at quarterback. Romeo Crennel doesn’t have anything to lose by placing Quinn behind center. Most likely, he will not do any worse than Anderson, who had a terrific 2007 season. It appears to be only a fluke at this point.
The Giants come into Cleveland with high expectations. Tom Coughlin has his team headed in the right direction for sure. The schedule doesn’t get any easier after the next two weeks, heading into November however. Coughlin is a calm coach and knows how to keep his players in line. The Giants can’t look past these Browns. Even though tight end, Kellen Winslow, could be out for Monday night, wide receiver, Donte Stallworth, is probably going to make his season debut. If Anderson can get anything going against a tenacious Giants’ defense, they may have a chance. I can’t imagine New York losing in Cleveland. Eli Manning has clearly shown his capabilities and Brandon Jacobs is angry heading into the game already. Jacobs will come up big again this week. With Plaxico Burress’ return and the emergence of Steve Smith and Dominick Hixon as wideouts, look for a high scoring, high power offense on Monday night. Cleveland could be out of this game by halftime if the Giants’ defense forces the Browns to three and outs in the early part of the game. The Browns are having a disappointing season and I think it will only get worse as they are host to a national audience this week. This is hardly a statement game for New York, but if they win big, perhaps some of the doubters out there will remain silent.
Parting points: Backtrack of the day: Stone Temple Pilots’ “Interstate Love Song”. It’s one of the greatest driving songs.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Longshot Longhorns
Height hypes rivalries. The celebrated college football rivalry known as the Red River Rivalry recurs Saturday at noon in Texas’ Cotton Bowl. This time, the visiting Sooners from Oklahoma are the top ranked collegiate team. The game is being plugged as the next game of the year (after the OSU-USC debacle) and the publicity is prevalent. The intensity and build-up of bitter rivalries earns exuberance especially if there is a history behind the competition. Ohio State-Michigan takes the cake for college’s consummate, chief contest. But this year’s Red River Rivalry in Dallas is exciting because both Big 12 teams are undefeated and ranked. Both teams illuminate with talent and towering quarterbacks. This weekend could also witness a college football record breaking game if the Sooners score 10 points. Oklahoma will become the first college team to score 30,000 points.
The BCS picture is still murky in Mid-October. Most teams have yet to make a statement or seal their fate in a top bowl game. There are inconsistencies throughout each conference but the early returns show the Big 12 is probably the most competitive. You could make an argument for the aggressive SEC too. The Texas Longhorns are one of five undefeated teams in the Big 12. Sharing that honor, of course, is Oklahoma. Other Big 12 unbeatens include Texas Tech, Oklahoma State and Missouri. Missouri and Oklahoma are glamorous picks to take home the Big 12 crown. I believe the Sooners will conclusively win the Big 12. But the Longhorns are, in my opinion, the conference’s runner up team.
Coach Mack Brown led Texas to a national championship in 2005. The team he assembled this season is not as good as the 2005. However, they have a strong quarterback in Colt McCoy. Number 12 McCoy needs one more touchdown to become the all time career leader for Texas. He already has four rushing touchdowns this season too. With McCoy’s versatility, he seldom throws to any receivers except Quan Cosby and Jordan Shipley. Cosby has 416 receiving yards on the year and Shipley has scored 7 total touchdowns. That amounts to about 60% of the yards on offense for Texas. McCoy needs to utilize other players such as Brandon Collins or James Kirkendoll if the Longhorns are going to put up some points this Saturday. Running backs, Cody Johnson and Chris Ogbonnaya, are effective in the backfield. Johnson has rushed for 6 touchdowns and Ogbonnaya had a huge game last weekend.
The pass defense for Texas is also crucial and could determine the success or demise of Texas. The secondary is made up of mostly freshmen. An inexperienced defense playing in a big time rivalry game is glaring. DTs Ray Miller and Aaron Lewis need to become leaders of the defense and attack and apply pressure on Bradford. Lewis has one interception return for a touchdown but the overall defense doesn’t force turnovers often enough. They do, however, lead the nation in average sacks per game.
Missouri is on the horizon after the Red River Rivalry, so Texas’s schedule doesn’t get any easier. If Texas can keep Oklahoma from scoring early in the first quarter, they have a good chance of making this a close game. The Sooners have outscored opponents 103-3 in the first quarter so far this year. Their balanced offense is 4th in scoring and one of the best in college football. Bob Stoops’ offense likes to use the triple threat trampling team of junior running backs Chris Brown, DeMarco Murray and Mossis Madu. Brown has a half a dozen touchdowns and Murray has 5. Madu has carried the ball 52 times this year. Wide receivers, Manuel Johnson and Juaquin Iglesias, scored 5 touchdowns each as well. Ryan Broyles is a speedy punt return receiver who could make a difference flying under the radar for Oklahoma. The Sooners exude pressure and pound away at their opposition. Look for another win for the number one team on Saturday.
Parting points: Here are my ALCS and NLCS predictions and MVPs:
ALCS: Red Sox in 6 MVP: Jon Lester
NLCS: Phillies in 7 MVP: Chase Utley
The BCS picture is still murky in Mid-October. Most teams have yet to make a statement or seal their fate in a top bowl game. There are inconsistencies throughout each conference but the early returns show the Big 12 is probably the most competitive. You could make an argument for the aggressive SEC too. The Texas Longhorns are one of five undefeated teams in the Big 12. Sharing that honor, of course, is Oklahoma. Other Big 12 unbeatens include Texas Tech, Oklahoma State and Missouri. Missouri and Oklahoma are glamorous picks to take home the Big 12 crown. I believe the Sooners will conclusively win the Big 12. But the Longhorns are, in my opinion, the conference’s runner up team.
Coach Mack Brown led Texas to a national championship in 2005. The team he assembled this season is not as good as the 2005. However, they have a strong quarterback in Colt McCoy. Number 12 McCoy needs one more touchdown to become the all time career leader for Texas. He already has four rushing touchdowns this season too. With McCoy’s versatility, he seldom throws to any receivers except Quan Cosby and Jordan Shipley. Cosby has 416 receiving yards on the year and Shipley has scored 7 total touchdowns. That amounts to about 60% of the yards on offense for Texas. McCoy needs to utilize other players such as Brandon Collins or James Kirkendoll if the Longhorns are going to put up some points this Saturday. Running backs, Cody Johnson and Chris Ogbonnaya, are effective in the backfield. Johnson has rushed for 6 touchdowns and Ogbonnaya had a huge game last weekend.
The pass defense for Texas is also crucial and could determine the success or demise of Texas. The secondary is made up of mostly freshmen. An inexperienced defense playing in a big time rivalry game is glaring. DTs Ray Miller and Aaron Lewis need to become leaders of the defense and attack and apply pressure on Bradford. Lewis has one interception return for a touchdown but the overall defense doesn’t force turnovers often enough. They do, however, lead the nation in average sacks per game.
Missouri is on the horizon after the Red River Rivalry, so Texas’s schedule doesn’t get any easier. If Texas can keep Oklahoma from scoring early in the first quarter, they have a good chance of making this a close game. The Sooners have outscored opponents 103-3 in the first quarter so far this year. Their balanced offense is 4th in scoring and one of the best in college football. Bob Stoops’ offense likes to use the triple threat trampling team of junior running backs Chris Brown, DeMarco Murray and Mossis Madu. Brown has a half a dozen touchdowns and Murray has 5. Madu has carried the ball 52 times this year. Wide receivers, Manuel Johnson and Juaquin Iglesias, scored 5 touchdowns each as well. Ryan Broyles is a speedy punt return receiver who could make a difference flying under the radar for Oklahoma. The Sooners exude pressure and pound away at their opposition. Look for another win for the number one team on Saturday.
Parting points: Here are my ALCS and NLCS predictions and MVPs:
ALCS: Red Sox in 6 MVP: Jon Lester
NLCS: Phillies in 7 MVP: Chase Utley
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
First Fixings
Yankee GM, Brian Cashman, will control and construct the team for at least three more years. He just signed a contract to remain in New York’s front office. He’s been a mediocre manager since taking over. Cashman experienced everything from buying belligerent and battered superstars to profiting from passionate players. He’s capitalized on acquiring free agents and the contributions haven’t always worked out.
I think there needs to be some significant shakeups and a few key switches next season. I would start at first base by not resigning Jason Giambi. The Giambino has a great eye, great discipline and can still hit productively, but he is overpaid and defensively deficient. Mark Teixeira would be money well spent if he entertained a NY offer and decided to join the 2009 Yankees. Texieria would be an upgrade in the field and provide a big bat in an already lush lineup. The Yankees need a reliable defensive first baseman reminiscent of Tino Martinez and Don Mattingly . Texieria is a switch hitter and happend to like Donnie Baseball growing up. Watching Mark whack the ball for Atlanta and the Angels this season makes me hunger for his homerun ability at Yankee Stadium. I am sure the cost for Teixeria will skyrocket once he officially meets the market. Scott Boras, his agent, is going to command the bucks. I think this is one player the Yankees could get away with overpaying. They are in desperate need of a solid, diligent corner infielder.
Curtis Granderson is a standup citizen and athlete. His savvy plate power only added up to a .280 batting average in 2008, but Granderson would be a great addition in centerfield. If Detroit were willing to trade with New York, the Yankees would sure up their outfield for years in a young player like Granderson. There are other in-house options of course. Johnny Damon, Hideki Matsui and Brent Gardner are all taking up roster space. I do not think Matsui has anything left except his bat so playing him in the outfield is out of the question. Johnny Damon can get by in left field. His arm is weak and base runners take advantage of him all day but his bat is needed. I think with Jorge Posada as the team’s potential 2009 DH, the Yankees should consider releasing Matsui. I loved the trade deadline pickup, Xavier Nady, and think he should be included in the Yankees outfield next year. With Nady in right field, Bobby Abreu is the odd man out. Abreu has solid numbers at the plate but he is sometimes feeble and frail in the field. But I don’t agree with paying him to stay on this club. The Yankees should also let him go. Brett Gardner is an option as well and he should get a chance to make the team in spring training. Perhaps a platoon in left with Damon would be beneficial. At catcher, the Yankees might be best retaining Jose Molina. There are very few options on the free agent market at the position and the Yankees are not grooming a backstop on the farm from what I’ve heard.
Pitching probably potentially poses a problem. Wang will be the team ace once he bounces back from the DL. Jaba Chamberlain has to be included in the starting rotation. That makes a solid one and two. I have a feeling Mike Mussina will eventually decide to retire and Andy Pettitte I can see taking the same road. If neither returns, the Yankees are going to need at least one more pitcher. They have Phil Hughes pegged for a spot so I fully expect him to contribute in 2009 more than he did this year. I am high on Hughes’ potential in the long-term. With Wang, Chamberlain and Hughes the Yankees are set for years to come if the three are reliable. The Yankees must make a pitch for C.C. Sabathia. They require that shut-down, dominant starter and C.C. would make the rotation a complete one. A fifth starter shouldn’t be difficult to find if Mike and Andy are gone. I actually believe the relief core and late inning hurlers are good enough. There are going to always be injuries though, and Cashman needs to solidify certain areas of the bullpen. Next season is going to come down to production. Alex Rodriguez, Robinson Cano and Derek Jeter are the foundation of this team. A premier centerfielder would provide an added insurance player. The supporting staff of players like Nady and Teixera certainly would make this team click on all cylinders.
Parting points: I am stoked for the ALCS and NLCS. The most enticing matchup will be Beckett vs. Kazmir in the second game of the ALCS in Tampa Bay.
I think there needs to be some significant shakeups and a few key switches next season. I would start at first base by not resigning Jason Giambi. The Giambino has a great eye, great discipline and can still hit productively, but he is overpaid and defensively deficient. Mark Teixeira would be money well spent if he entertained a NY offer and decided to join the 2009 Yankees. Texieria would be an upgrade in the field and provide a big bat in an already lush lineup. The Yankees need a reliable defensive first baseman reminiscent of Tino Martinez and Don Mattingly . Texieria is a switch hitter and happend to like Donnie Baseball growing up. Watching Mark whack the ball for Atlanta and the Angels this season makes me hunger for his homerun ability at Yankee Stadium. I am sure the cost for Teixeria will skyrocket once he officially meets the market. Scott Boras, his agent, is going to command the bucks. I think this is one player the Yankees could get away with overpaying. They are in desperate need of a solid, diligent corner infielder.
Curtis Granderson is a standup citizen and athlete. His savvy plate power only added up to a .280 batting average in 2008, but Granderson would be a great addition in centerfield. If Detroit were willing to trade with New York, the Yankees would sure up their outfield for years in a young player like Granderson. There are other in-house options of course. Johnny Damon, Hideki Matsui and Brent Gardner are all taking up roster space. I do not think Matsui has anything left except his bat so playing him in the outfield is out of the question. Johnny Damon can get by in left field. His arm is weak and base runners take advantage of him all day but his bat is needed. I think with Jorge Posada as the team’s potential 2009 DH, the Yankees should consider releasing Matsui. I loved the trade deadline pickup, Xavier Nady, and think he should be included in the Yankees outfield next year. With Nady in right field, Bobby Abreu is the odd man out. Abreu has solid numbers at the plate but he is sometimes feeble and frail in the field. But I don’t agree with paying him to stay on this club. The Yankees should also let him go. Brett Gardner is an option as well and he should get a chance to make the team in spring training. Perhaps a platoon in left with Damon would be beneficial. At catcher, the Yankees might be best retaining Jose Molina. There are very few options on the free agent market at the position and the Yankees are not grooming a backstop on the farm from what I’ve heard.
Pitching probably potentially poses a problem. Wang will be the team ace once he bounces back from the DL. Jaba Chamberlain has to be included in the starting rotation. That makes a solid one and two. I have a feeling Mike Mussina will eventually decide to retire and Andy Pettitte I can see taking the same road. If neither returns, the Yankees are going to need at least one more pitcher. They have Phil Hughes pegged for a spot so I fully expect him to contribute in 2009 more than he did this year. I am high on Hughes’ potential in the long-term. With Wang, Chamberlain and Hughes the Yankees are set for years to come if the three are reliable. The Yankees must make a pitch for C.C. Sabathia. They require that shut-down, dominant starter and C.C. would make the rotation a complete one. A fifth starter shouldn’t be difficult to find if Mike and Andy are gone. I actually believe the relief core and late inning hurlers are good enough. There are going to always be injuries though, and Cashman needs to solidify certain areas of the bullpen. Next season is going to come down to production. Alex Rodriguez, Robinson Cano and Derek Jeter are the foundation of this team. A premier centerfielder would provide an added insurance player. The supporting staff of players like Nady and Teixera certainly would make this team click on all cylinders.
Parting points: I am stoked for the ALCS and NLCS. The most enticing matchup will be Beckett vs. Kazmir in the second game of the ALCS in Tampa Bay.
Warrior's Winning Ways
Every baseball analyst and Yankee fan is speculating about how to fix the Yankees this off season. Some suggest thoughtless trades or zany signings. Others like the idea of bringing up younger prospects and having them slotted as starters. It’s clear to me Joe Girardi’s Yankees are missing that certain intangible quality the championship teams held. Those teams had an identity that went beyond individual feats. They were able to achieve World Series titles because of the players who were assembled. I will infuse my own views about the 2009 team, but before I do, I am taking a look back at one player who was an ultimate all-around warrior.
Paul O’Neill
I admire many New York Yankees, past and present. Yankee legends are admirable because of their great accomplishments throughout baseball history. However, my favorite modern Yankee is Paul O’Neill. I have tremendous respect for number 21, Paul O’Neill. He is an aggressive competitor and dedicated team player. I like Paul’s devotion, passion and knowledge of baseball. Paul is a dependable player in clutch situations. His high batting average continues to provide him with fame. Paul earned the American League Batting Championship in 1994. Paul O’Neill is also respectable off the field. He is involved with charities and recently helped victims of the tornado in his hometown in Ohio. Paul is an all-around role model for children. More athletes should copy Paul’s example.
Paul O’Neill is my favorite Yankee because he possesses the qualities of a true athlete. Not only are his batting and fielding skills amazing to watch, but his honest, honorable and humble character are outstanding. As an athlete myself, I truly look up to him. Paul should be a favorite among every Yankee fan because right field wouldn’t be the same without him.
Parting points: I haven’t gone pumpkin picking and probably won’t go this year. I really miss it though. A nostalgic song: Smashing Pumpkins’ “1979”. It’s a classic Pumpkins hit.
Paul O’Neill
I admire many New York Yankees, past and present. Yankee legends are admirable because of their great accomplishments throughout baseball history. However, my favorite modern Yankee is Paul O’Neill. I have tremendous respect for number 21, Paul O’Neill. He is an aggressive competitor and dedicated team player. I like Paul’s devotion, passion and knowledge of baseball. Paul is a dependable player in clutch situations. His high batting average continues to provide him with fame. Paul earned the American League Batting Championship in 1994. Paul O’Neill is also respectable off the field. He is involved with charities and recently helped victims of the tornado in his hometown in Ohio. Paul is an all-around role model for children. More athletes should copy Paul’s example.
Paul O’Neill is my favorite Yankee because he possesses the qualities of a true athlete. Not only are his batting and fielding skills amazing to watch, but his honest, honorable and humble character are outstanding. As an athlete myself, I truly look up to him. Paul should be a favorite among every Yankee fan because right field wouldn’t be the same without him.
Parting points: I haven’t gone pumpkin picking and probably won’t go this year. I really miss it though. A nostalgic song: Smashing Pumpkins’ “1979”. It’s a classic Pumpkins hit.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Special Signal-caller Steve
The San Francisco 49ers retired former QB Steve Young’s #8 before Sunday’s showdown vs. New England. The recently-elected Hall-of-Famer was an NFL megastar in the 1990’s. Young turns 47 this Saturday but it seems like only yesterday he was tearing up defenses and throwing tosses with a perfect spiral chuck.
The 1993 NFC title showdown with Dallas pitted two of my favorite number 8’s as signal callers. The 49ers would lose that game, as well as the same game in 1994, to Troy Aikman and the Cowboys. However, Steve Young established himself as an elite leader in even making the playoffs and winning in the first round 20-13 over the Washington Redskins. The game gave San Francisco supporters their first real glimpse of Young’s ability to run. One of the game’s greatest and gifted scrambling quarterbacks, Young broke Jack Kemp’s career rushing TD mark in 1998. The 49ers and the Cowboys embarked on some memorable games during the 1990’s, highlighted by a 1995 playoff game. Although I was rooting heavily for my Cowboys, I will never forget the way Steve Young and the 49ers defeated them. Dallas had a 21-14 lead after the Niners had dominated most of the game when Jerry Rice caught a Young pass in the end zone with 8 seconds left. Rice completely confused defensive star, Larry Brown, on that play in Candlestick Park. I was heartbroken because the Cowboys were done, but Steve Young earned my admiration and respect for years to come.
In his very first NFL start, Young served as the Tampa Bay Bucs backup. It was fitting for Steve to lead the Bucs to an overtime win after taking over late in the fourth quarter. It never was easy for Young but he was a comeback kid. He was chosen in the supplemental draft of 1984 and endured two years in the USFL before stepping into an NFL game. When Young was traded to the 49ers, he had big shoes to fill. Joe Montana is probably the most famous and popular figures in Bay Area sports history, and rightly so. Young had to tolerate torn fans that still supported Montana even when he left for Kansas City. In replacing the legend, Steve became somewhat of a legend himself though. It took the fickle fans a while to catch on before Young won their hearts too. He was never flashy or fancy, and that is why I liked him. He had eye-catching mechanics and movements. Young seemed grounded and confident, very similar to my favorite player and his nemesis, Troy Aikman. Both quarterbacks fed off their receivers, benefited from a strong running unit and lead by example. They were mirror images of each other and it was usually a treat when they went up against each other. Aikman had Michael Irvin and Emmitt Smith, and Young had his go-to guys in Jerry Rice and Ricky Watters.
In the Superbowl win over San Diego, Young’s 49ers absolutely picked apart the Chargers. Within the game’s first minute, Young and Rice arrived in style with a 44-yard touchdown. The quick score was not unlike Young’s quick release. He always tended to throw a pretty pass. The six touchdowns during the 1995 Superbowl is a remarkable record. It was bittersweet that the record broke was one held by Joe Montana. I will never forget Steve’s fleeting feet and 49 rushing yards as the game’s top rusher. It’s mind-blowing how a quarterback could out-rush any other player on the field at that high a level.
The QB from BYU was the 49ers franchise of the 1990’s. He threw for over 33,000 yards and 232 touchdowns. He won the 1995 Superbowl MVP award and was selected to the Pro Bowl year after year. Young won the league MVP award twice. Steve had zest, zeal and enthusiasm for the game. There were times he was unstoppable and untouchable. The 49ers’most gifted left-hander during his day, Young’s touch and tempo controlled and manipulated all defenses. Number 8 will forever be etched in San Francisco memory and sports lore.
Parting points: Everybody is jumping on the Dodger bandwagon. I like Joe Torre and have been rooting for the Dodgers all year not just because they are closer to the World Series now. I was so impressed with Jonathan Broxton’s performance Saturday night.
Tonight’s a good Monday Night Football game if you like running backs. I should be surprised, but I still am anyway…the Giants are undefeated. Oh, and so are the Titans.
The 1993 NFC title showdown with Dallas pitted two of my favorite number 8’s as signal callers. The 49ers would lose that game, as well as the same game in 1994, to Troy Aikman and the Cowboys. However, Steve Young established himself as an elite leader in even making the playoffs and winning in the first round 20-13 over the Washington Redskins. The game gave San Francisco supporters their first real glimpse of Young’s ability to run. One of the game’s greatest and gifted scrambling quarterbacks, Young broke Jack Kemp’s career rushing TD mark in 1998. The 49ers and the Cowboys embarked on some memorable games during the 1990’s, highlighted by a 1995 playoff game. Although I was rooting heavily for my Cowboys, I will never forget the way Steve Young and the 49ers defeated them. Dallas had a 21-14 lead after the Niners had dominated most of the game when Jerry Rice caught a Young pass in the end zone with 8 seconds left. Rice completely confused defensive star, Larry Brown, on that play in Candlestick Park. I was heartbroken because the Cowboys were done, but Steve Young earned my admiration and respect for years to come.
In his very first NFL start, Young served as the Tampa Bay Bucs backup. It was fitting for Steve to lead the Bucs to an overtime win after taking over late in the fourth quarter. It never was easy for Young but he was a comeback kid. He was chosen in the supplemental draft of 1984 and endured two years in the USFL before stepping into an NFL game. When Young was traded to the 49ers, he had big shoes to fill. Joe Montana is probably the most famous and popular figures in Bay Area sports history, and rightly so. Young had to tolerate torn fans that still supported Montana even when he left for Kansas City. In replacing the legend, Steve became somewhat of a legend himself though. It took the fickle fans a while to catch on before Young won their hearts too. He was never flashy or fancy, and that is why I liked him. He had eye-catching mechanics and movements. Young seemed grounded and confident, very similar to my favorite player and his nemesis, Troy Aikman. Both quarterbacks fed off their receivers, benefited from a strong running unit and lead by example. They were mirror images of each other and it was usually a treat when they went up against each other. Aikman had Michael Irvin and Emmitt Smith, and Young had his go-to guys in Jerry Rice and Ricky Watters.
In the Superbowl win over San Diego, Young’s 49ers absolutely picked apart the Chargers. Within the game’s first minute, Young and Rice arrived in style with a 44-yard touchdown. The quick score was not unlike Young’s quick release. He always tended to throw a pretty pass. The six touchdowns during the 1995 Superbowl is a remarkable record. It was bittersweet that the record broke was one held by Joe Montana. I will never forget Steve’s fleeting feet and 49 rushing yards as the game’s top rusher. It’s mind-blowing how a quarterback could out-rush any other player on the field at that high a level.
The QB from BYU was the 49ers franchise of the 1990’s. He threw for over 33,000 yards and 232 touchdowns. He won the 1995 Superbowl MVP award and was selected to the Pro Bowl year after year. Young won the league MVP award twice. Steve had zest, zeal and enthusiasm for the game. There were times he was unstoppable and untouchable. The 49ers’most gifted left-hander during his day, Young’s touch and tempo controlled and manipulated all defenses. Number 8 will forever be etched in San Francisco memory and sports lore.
Parting points: Everybody is jumping on the Dodger bandwagon. I like Joe Torre and have been rooting for the Dodgers all year not just because they are closer to the World Series now. I was so impressed with Jonathan Broxton’s performance Saturday night.
Tonight’s a good Monday Night Football game if you like running backs. I should be surprised, but I still am anyway…the Giants are undefeated. Oh, and so are the Titans.
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