The Cowboys are on the clock, along with the rest of the NFL. The draft is two weeks away and teams will look to rebuild, refurbish and revamp their rosters. Dallas has more than a few pressing needs and holes to fill on both sides of the ball. The Cowboys have a decent pass rush but not enough pass protection or run stoppers.
Even with their vocal leaders Tony Romo and Jason Whitten, Dallas is in dire shape offensively. Troubled Terrell Owens is now problem for the Buffalo Bills. While his production in Big D will be missed, fans won’t yearn for his uncompromising attitude. WR, Miles Austin, is a restricted free agent who could land with the Jets. Austin is on New York’s radar and is expected to hear from Gang Green by mid-week. Rumors are the Cowboys are asking for a second round pick, which might be too much for the Jets to forego. Marion Barber and Felix Jones make a fierce one-two punch in the backfield. Jones was the Cowboys’ first overall selection a year ago. Felix showed promise during his 2008 rookie season. Dallas doesn’t need to waste picks drafting a running back because they appear set at that position. However, I would not complain in the least if Ohio State’s Chris “Beanie” Wells was carrying the ball for my favorite football team next year.
Patrick Crayton and Whitten are the playmakers who Romo will make most of his throws to. Crayton is a crybaby but Jason is the real deal. Whitten shows splendor with his slick, sly snatches and subservient stardom. The offensive line is anything but oppressive. However, I think the stars bring enough to enable the team to compete. Romo’s lunar passes (too often to opposing teams) are potential problems but you have to like the gambling attitude. A top-ten quarterback, Romo will hold his team together on his side. The Dallas defense is another story.
Defensive droppings include Chris Canty and Anthony Henry. Canty signed with the Giants and Henry was traded to Detroit. Tank Johnson also left Dallas for greener pastures in Cincinnati, and Roy Williams was let go all together. Zach Thomas will play for the Chiefs in 2009, but the Cowboys can replace him at the linebacker position with Keith Brooking. Dallas probably should draft a few defensive lineman and definitely has to deal for secondary aid. They still boast the best defensive player in DeMarcus Ware and Greg Ellis is a classy, knowledgeable veteran. Bobby Carpenter and Gerald Sensabaugh are viable defensive players as well. Carpenter has the potential to be a great linebacker but is still unproven at this level. Sensabaugh is a stomper and I am looking forward to him coming into his own down in Big D. Replacing Johnson won’t be easy for Wade Phillips. The Cowboys have rookies, Junior Siavii and Tim Anderson in camp to take over the responsibility. I like last year’s first round pick, Mike Jenkins and think he can take over Henry’s defensive back role. Orlando Scandrick is another option at the corner or safety slot for the team.
Safety, Louis Delmas is high on the depth chart for Phillips’ team. Delmas is a Western Michigan kid I don’t anticipate hanging around long enough to become a Cowboy. His scouting reports are great and should guarantee him a first round choice. Wake Forest cornerback, Alphonso Smith could be a selection for America’s team this draft. The Cowboys are charmed by Smith’s athleticism and quickness. The ACC four year starter lacks height but has excellent footwork and the ability to make quarterbacks pay for mistakes. Smith takes risks but snagged 21 interceptions in four years at Wake.
Offensive guard, Duke Robinson, is another target for Jerry Jones’ boys. Robinson played college ball in Oklahoma in Sam Bradford’s high-octane offense. Robinson’s disposition is nasty and he is a good run blocker. He also moves well for a big guy but can be sloppy at times. The explosive former Sooner would have to compete with Kyle Kosier for a starting spot. The Cowboys have the 51st selection in the draft, and if Duke is still on the board, they should draft him. He most likely won’t be around when the Cowboys make their second selection. The take-charge guard is one of the top in this year’s draft class.
Herman Johnson is also an offensive guard widening the eyes of scouts. The Cowboys could select he LSU All-American, who also has experience at the right tackle position. The versatile Johnson has limited mobility due to his size but is still a capable pick in the second or third round. Nose tackle, Dorell Scott, from Clemson might also land in Dallas if the Cowboys desire to fill a backup hole there. OLB, Julius Williams, is a long shot to wear Dallas blue. The Connecticut pass rushing prospect had 14.5 sacks in his junior and senior year.
Oregon State’s, Andy LeVitre, shows completive drive and strength as a guard. LeVitre’s keen awareness in pass protection is exactly what Dallas needs. He would make a productive backup on the weak Cowboys offensive line. Staying in Oregon, but scouting the Ducks, the draft will feature a safety, Patrick Chung. The 5’11” Chung is considered one of the chief strong safeties in the draft. The open-field tackler makes hard hits and plays smart football. The Cowboys are interested in using Patrick on special teams or in short yardage situations. Don’t look for him to be an interception machine despite his acute anticipation ability. Texas Tech safety, Darcel McBath, is a solid mid-round pick who could be a cover man for Dallas. McBath would play behind Sensabaugh and he can physically cover any receiver. McBath played Big 12 football and seems to be a quick learner. His seven interceptions last year are intriguing enough for Dallas to dig deeper into drafting him.
Baylor WR, Thomas White, worked out for the Cowboys this week. Missouri QB, Chase Daniel and Sam Houston QB, Rhett Bomar were also part of the workouts. White is projected as a late-round Cowboys selection. A wideout who made some eye-popping plays during his workouts is Ramses Barden. Barden caught for Cal Poly and ranks as high as number nine in this year’s draft. Ramses takes long strides and his strong hands make him a dangerous threat downfield, especially after the catch. If Dallas waits to draft a wideout, they could end up landing small-school star, Dudley Guice. The Northwestern State (LA) graduate would install speed and size to the offense.
Dallas’ current backup quarterback is former Lion, Joe Kitna. Number three would be Brooks Bollinger. I hesitate to put any faith in Bollinger after his troubled and turmoil term last year. The team should be looking for a long-term answer somewhere in this year’s draft. The Cowboys may draft Texas A&M QB, Stephen McGee over both Daniel and Bomar. The in-state product is a prolific passer. He doesn’t throw many picks but in an Aggie offense, he didn’t have many chances either. I think West Virginia’s, Pat White, would fit the mold in Dallas better but McGee could be the next Tony Romo. Nobody is too high on his ability, citing a flawed technique in the young gunslinger. If he’s available in the sixth round or so, the Cowboys would be wise to take a chance on him.
Bomar put up stellar stats at Sam Houston and has the sheer size to overmatch the competition. But he racked up numbers against sub par teams and scouts are skeptical of his big-game ability. Daniel came up huge for Missouri and compiled massive numbers of his own. Chase was a Heisman contender when the Tigers were the top team in their conference, but fell off the radar as the losses piled on. The Cowboys don’t need a rookie quarterback to play right away and can afford to draft one late. Daniel or Texas Tech’s Graham Harrell are comparable players and excellent choices in later rounds. Both played in offensively-focused college systems and I think have motivation to make above-average pros. Purdue’s Curtis Painter is another justifiable pick if he should remain on the board the second day. The team has enough wiggle room to ensure a future backup is signed.
The Cowboys must re-establish their NFC East dominance. They won’t be able to unless they put the D back Dallas. Once they figure out how to stomp their opponents again, America’s team will return to the playoffs. I echo the sentiments of my fellow ‘Boys fans when reminiscing about the glory days.
Parting points: Did my eyes deceive me? Was that really Nick Swisher on the mound in the 8th last night? Who does he think he is, Wade Boggs?
Yesterday’s trivia answer is the Detroit Tigers
It’s nice to see David Wells join the TBS broadcast booth as a baseball analyst.
Rocking out to Candlebox‘s “Far Behind”
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Monday, April 13, 2009
Pristine Pitching, Porous Players
Josh Johnson’s fastball clocked in at 96 MPH during the 9th inning Sunday in Florida. The Marlins’ starting pitcher was still on the mound trying to close out his second career complete game. The visiting New York Mets pushed across a single run thanks to the bat of centerfielder, Carlos Beltran. Beltran’s RBI single came with two outs in the final chance for the Mets. New York lost the game 2-1 in a contest of pristine pitching and porous defensive plays. Misplays and errors were the sidebar to a game that featured two tremendous pitching performances.
The economical Johan Santana threw seven innings for the Mets. The profound ace punched out 13 Marlin hitters, a franchise single game record. He blistered and blazed his way through the opposing lineup with engaging elegance. Santana did not allow an earned run but will still be tagged with the loss. Florida scored on a Daniel Murphy dropped fly during the second inning. The drop led directly to the Fins’ runs. The left fielder misplayed Cody Ross’s two out fly and looked uneasy going back on the ball. The shot seemingly got lost in the sun, resulting in Murphy’s gaff. The result was Jeremy Hermida racing home for run number one. The Mets should have been out of the inning on Ross’s ordinary hit. Instead, Ronny Paulino singled on Santana’s next pitch to increase the lead to two runs.
Mets fans who are enamored with Daniel’s offense have to realize he is not a natural outfielder. Murphy is still learning how to play left field. He hasn’t played in all the major league parks and it will take the kid time to adjust accordingly.
Murphy can take the brunt of the blame for yesterday, but the fact the Mets could not cross the plate is the main reason the team lost. Offensively, this team needed to pick up their left-fielder. The Mets are not good situational hitters. The could not fold under the pressure of facing a pitcher in Johnson they have never before beaten. There is no excuse for failing to score runs to back Santana‘s stellar start. Instead, the offense continued to strand runners and leave men on base. Even when they were able to catch a few breaks, the Mets could not score. Jose Reyes and Murphy managed to hit back to back ground balls to the first baseman for easy outs. Most the of the other Met hitters couldn’t get the ball past the infield either. Save for Reyes to lead off the game, no Met reached base until Luis Castillo’s sixth inning bloop single. Jose reached base on Wes Helms’ dropped throw at first base. Reyes was picked off first by the cannoned arm of Marlins catcher, Paulino.
Luis’s broken bat single went for naught as Reyes preceded to end the threat with a groundout. Reyes also failed to drive in a run, leaving men stranded at the corners in the eight. Beltran was unsuccessful to advance the runners in scoring position in the seventh when he hit into a double play.
Other miscues yesterday included Castillo watched a routine ground ball go through his legs into the outfield. Ryan Church recovered the misplay but not in time to tag out the runner. In the seventh with David Wright on base, earnest Emilio Bonafacio bobbled a double play ball that put the tying run aboard.
Johnson out-dueled Santana, but only in the final outcome. Johan’s first loss in 19 starts was not an accurate assessment of the actual mound occurrence. Santana was absolutely brilliant statistically and extremely economical. He was accurate in allowing one walk during the seven innings he pitched. The left-hander was relieved by Bobby Parnell in the eighth inning. Parnell kept it a two run game but the Mets’ late rally fell short. New York was finally able to figure out Johnson by the seventh inning. Josh was equally dominant, issuing five hits and throwing Mets hitters off balance the entire game. Johnson showed his change-up more often than he has in the past. He tossed 113 pitches and struck out seven of his own. The two-run lead was enough leg room for him to fire his way to victory. Johnson’s velocity showed no signs of slowing down, even as he threw his final pitch to Church. Ryan has been “Mr. Doubles” so far in this six game season. He had another double yesterday afternoon in Florida. Church caressed a soft liner to Brett Carroll, defensive-replacement player, put in the outfield to make that exact catch in a close game. Carroll didn’t disappoint and dramatically dawdled the ball near his shoe straps.
This loss typifies, in a way, the Mets. They always get the short end of the stick despite very positive facets. The rusty playing should not have crippled their chances of winning the ballgame. The fish were off to a hot start, reeling off four straight wins before losing to the Mets Saturday. The team shows grit offensively and they got what they need yesterday to add another win to their record. Bonifacio, Florida’s darling leadoff man, came into the contest with the major’s highest hit total and average. Santana kept him off base for the first time this year. The Marlins took advantage of the early error but had several of mishaps themselves on the field. New York realistically had seven innings to overcome a mere two run deficit but they couldn’t battle back. You have to fault the team for their inability to push across runs when it matters most.
Johnson and Santana pitched gems and are both in the pinnacle of their careers. They are two explosive pitchers with defined deliveries. It’s unique whenever baseball games are quick affairs with pitching duals. The two hour game would have been better if played cleaner on the field, but the errant plays proved to be major conditions. Santana’s efforts were wasted in what is a game of inches, unfair at times. If you are an Amazin’ fan, you can’t help but feel ripped off. Nonetheless, the game’s intensity was incredible. Both haulers field their position really well. I am continually awed by Santana’s speed in getting to bunted balls and making catches on the mound. He dusted the Florida batters off the plate with unreserved and regal revere. Santana should continue piling astronomical numbers this year. Johnson’s defense was desirable, as Josh took charge with six putouts from the pitching position.
Tonight, the San Diego Padres fly into the Metropolitan area. They will be the first visiting team to play in the new Citi Field. The Mets open their ballpark in a home opener with Mike Pelfrey tossing the first pitch. I am looking forward to how players will handle the adventurous right field. The new park looks exciting enough on the surface.
I am also curious to see how receptive the crowd is to Castillo. He is not a fan favorite in New York but he hasn’t had a shaky start to warrant too many boos. Still, Luis has a delicate ego and the second he has an 0-for night, he will hear it from the crowd. Festivities get underway around 6pm tonight when Terrific Tom (Seaver) throws out the first pitch to Mike Piazza.
Parting points: Trivia- What baseball team was sold by the founder of Domino’s Pizza to the founder of Little Caesars in 1992?
The economical Johan Santana threw seven innings for the Mets. The profound ace punched out 13 Marlin hitters, a franchise single game record. He blistered and blazed his way through the opposing lineup with engaging elegance. Santana did not allow an earned run but will still be tagged with the loss. Florida scored on a Daniel Murphy dropped fly during the second inning. The drop led directly to the Fins’ runs. The left fielder misplayed Cody Ross’s two out fly and looked uneasy going back on the ball. The shot seemingly got lost in the sun, resulting in Murphy’s gaff. The result was Jeremy Hermida racing home for run number one. The Mets should have been out of the inning on Ross’s ordinary hit. Instead, Ronny Paulino singled on Santana’s next pitch to increase the lead to two runs.
Mets fans who are enamored with Daniel’s offense have to realize he is not a natural outfielder. Murphy is still learning how to play left field. He hasn’t played in all the major league parks and it will take the kid time to adjust accordingly.
Murphy can take the brunt of the blame for yesterday, but the fact the Mets could not cross the plate is the main reason the team lost. Offensively, this team needed to pick up their left-fielder. The Mets are not good situational hitters. The could not fold under the pressure of facing a pitcher in Johnson they have never before beaten. There is no excuse for failing to score runs to back Santana‘s stellar start. Instead, the offense continued to strand runners and leave men on base. Even when they were able to catch a few breaks, the Mets could not score. Jose Reyes and Murphy managed to hit back to back ground balls to the first baseman for easy outs. Most the of the other Met hitters couldn’t get the ball past the infield either. Save for Reyes to lead off the game, no Met reached base until Luis Castillo’s sixth inning bloop single. Jose reached base on Wes Helms’ dropped throw at first base. Reyes was picked off first by the cannoned arm of Marlins catcher, Paulino.
Luis’s broken bat single went for naught as Reyes preceded to end the threat with a groundout. Reyes also failed to drive in a run, leaving men stranded at the corners in the eight. Beltran was unsuccessful to advance the runners in scoring position in the seventh when he hit into a double play.
Other miscues yesterday included Castillo watched a routine ground ball go through his legs into the outfield. Ryan Church recovered the misplay but not in time to tag out the runner. In the seventh with David Wright on base, earnest Emilio Bonafacio bobbled a double play ball that put the tying run aboard.
Johnson out-dueled Santana, but only in the final outcome. Johan’s first loss in 19 starts was not an accurate assessment of the actual mound occurrence. Santana was absolutely brilliant statistically and extremely economical. He was accurate in allowing one walk during the seven innings he pitched. The left-hander was relieved by Bobby Parnell in the eighth inning. Parnell kept it a two run game but the Mets’ late rally fell short. New York was finally able to figure out Johnson by the seventh inning. Josh was equally dominant, issuing five hits and throwing Mets hitters off balance the entire game. Johnson showed his change-up more often than he has in the past. He tossed 113 pitches and struck out seven of his own. The two-run lead was enough leg room for him to fire his way to victory. Johnson’s velocity showed no signs of slowing down, even as he threw his final pitch to Church. Ryan has been “Mr. Doubles” so far in this six game season. He had another double yesterday afternoon in Florida. Church caressed a soft liner to Brett Carroll, defensive-replacement player, put in the outfield to make that exact catch in a close game. Carroll didn’t disappoint and dramatically dawdled the ball near his shoe straps.
This loss typifies, in a way, the Mets. They always get the short end of the stick despite very positive facets. The rusty playing should not have crippled their chances of winning the ballgame. The fish were off to a hot start, reeling off four straight wins before losing to the Mets Saturday. The team shows grit offensively and they got what they need yesterday to add another win to their record. Bonifacio, Florida’s darling leadoff man, came into the contest with the major’s highest hit total and average. Santana kept him off base for the first time this year. The Marlins took advantage of the early error but had several of mishaps themselves on the field. New York realistically had seven innings to overcome a mere two run deficit but they couldn’t battle back. You have to fault the team for their inability to push across runs when it matters most.
Johnson and Santana pitched gems and are both in the pinnacle of their careers. They are two explosive pitchers with defined deliveries. It’s unique whenever baseball games are quick affairs with pitching duals. The two hour game would have been better if played cleaner on the field, but the errant plays proved to be major conditions. Santana’s efforts were wasted in what is a game of inches, unfair at times. If you are an Amazin’ fan, you can’t help but feel ripped off. Nonetheless, the game’s intensity was incredible. Both haulers field their position really well. I am continually awed by Santana’s speed in getting to bunted balls and making catches on the mound. He dusted the Florida batters off the plate with unreserved and regal revere. Santana should continue piling astronomical numbers this year. Johnson’s defense was desirable, as Josh took charge with six putouts from the pitching position.
Tonight, the San Diego Padres fly into the Metropolitan area. They will be the first visiting team to play in the new Citi Field. The Mets open their ballpark in a home opener with Mike Pelfrey tossing the first pitch. I am looking forward to how players will handle the adventurous right field. The new park looks exciting enough on the surface.
I am also curious to see how receptive the crowd is to Castillo. He is not a fan favorite in New York but he hasn’t had a shaky start to warrant too many boos. Still, Luis has a delicate ego and the second he has an 0-for night, he will hear it from the crowd. Festivities get underway around 6pm tonight when Terrific Tom (Seaver) throws out the first pitch to Mike Piazza.
Parting points: Trivia- What baseball team was sold by the founder of Domino’s Pizza to the founder of Little Caesars in 1992?
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Sunday Sunrise Service
Religion does not play a very visible role in sports. Many teams and athletes privately and internally practice their faith before and after competition. However, it is not rare to hear about sports stars thanking God in press conferences or reading about players grouping together in team prayer. My high school tennis coach used to make us say the Serenity prayer before every match. A different person would say t aloud each time. Before we trekked to the tennis court to warm-up, we would also read inspirational quotes. I think it helped us see the big picture and realize there is something greater than the game itself. Other times during practice, our coach would have us lie on mats in the gym. We would practice something she referred to as imagery. Imagery is basically a form of meditation and it supposed to help improve muscle memory. I was skeptical about this strange approach to tennis training initially. But the more I tried to get into it, the more I noticed myself relaxing on the court. I tried putting this device into practice while playing and it seemed to work. Other teams would sometimes ridicule our pre-game rituals. I always felt lucky to have a faith-based team, even if some of us only paid lip service to idea. I wasn’t just going through the motions because it was an important and introspective part of competing to me.
When I played college in tennis, our coach was ultra religious. We too would say prayers before every match. I remember creating a circle and holding hands while listening to Coach’s prayers. The serene moment was enlightening and encouraging. It is hard to remember how grateful we should be as athletes. There are people who never have the chance to sniff a tennis court because they are disabled or don’t have the opportunity. Some people will never know how good it feels to swing a racket or run to the net on a short ball. It’s hard for me to conceive never having the honor of winning a tennis match.
Today is Easter Sunday and around the world, Christians are celebrating in churches. Sunrise services and Easter go hand-in-hand. I have my own version of sunrise Sunday services, and it involves tennis. I used to wake up early Sunday mornings in college and dress in sweats and a T-shirt. Tennis bag harnessed high on my shoulder, I’d hike to the courts. They were always empty in the early morning as the sun was just rising in the western New York sky. The six red and green tennis courts were open for everyone and I felt safe there alone. I would take a hopper and serve ball after ball over the net. As I was doing this awesome act, I’d think about my own faith. Rays of sunlight glowed, the covenant allowing me to serve.
Serving a tennis ball is like serving our Lord in a way. You are offering your very best and showcasing what you can bring to the game in both cases. The game of life is much larger and more important than tennis. But both have meaning. As the sun rises this Easter Sunday, I hope everybody is thankful for the services they can provide in all aspects of life. Remember to put your own personal spin on whatever your personal and professional goals are. My spin is tennis. The game defines who I am. Who are you?
Parting points: “So, who are you, yeah who are you?” -The Pretender by Foo Fighters
When I played college in tennis, our coach was ultra religious. We too would say prayers before every match. I remember creating a circle and holding hands while listening to Coach’s prayers. The serene moment was enlightening and encouraging. It is hard to remember how grateful we should be as athletes. There are people who never have the chance to sniff a tennis court because they are disabled or don’t have the opportunity. Some people will never know how good it feels to swing a racket or run to the net on a short ball. It’s hard for me to conceive never having the honor of winning a tennis match.
Today is Easter Sunday and around the world, Christians are celebrating in churches. Sunrise services and Easter go hand-in-hand. I have my own version of sunrise Sunday services, and it involves tennis. I used to wake up early Sunday mornings in college and dress in sweats and a T-shirt. Tennis bag harnessed high on my shoulder, I’d hike to the courts. They were always empty in the early morning as the sun was just rising in the western New York sky. The six red and green tennis courts were open for everyone and I felt safe there alone. I would take a hopper and serve ball after ball over the net. As I was doing this awesome act, I’d think about my own faith. Rays of sunlight glowed, the covenant allowing me to serve.
Serving a tennis ball is like serving our Lord in a way. You are offering your very best and showcasing what you can bring to the game in both cases. The game of life is much larger and more important than tennis. But both have meaning. As the sun rises this Easter Sunday, I hope everybody is thankful for the services they can provide in all aspects of life. Remember to put your own personal spin on whatever your personal and professional goals are. My spin is tennis. The game defines who I am. Who are you?
Parting points: “So, who are you, yeah who are you?” -The Pretender by Foo Fighters
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Royal Round-up
His season debut may have been against the Kansas City Royals, but Andy Pettitte’s line was impressive. Pettitte earned his 216th career win in yesterday’s 4-1 Yankees victory. The minor milestone ranks him fourth in wins among all active pitchers. Andy’s sturdy left arm went seven strong with six strikeouts, surrendering a single run and scattering three hits. Pettitte was only tagged for one run, a vast improvement from the last time we saw the ace on the mound. Andy doesn’t have as much pressure this year as he did in 2008. Pettitte is not the best pitcher on the team, and since the expectations are not high, I expect he will do a lot of winning this year. It’s always a good reason to celebrate when Pettitte bests another pitcher. I’m not sold on a Mussina-like comeback year for Andy, but there is no reason he cannot put together 12-15 wins.
New York has put together back-to-back worthwhile pitching performances behind Pettitte and A.J. Burnett. The team has gotten length from both starting pitchers and will need the same from Sabathia, Wang and Chamberlain. Burnett harvested his first win during his rehearsal in pinstripes. Burnett demonstrated his capability of crippling the opposition by beating the Baltimore Orioles. His curveball was effective and he threw down in the zone Thursday. The O’s don’t rate high in most statistical categories, but have a surprisingly superb and underrated crop of clubbers.
Mariano Rivera came in to close out the Royals in his usual unplumbed fashion. Mariano’s method makes pitching look easy and his cut fastball seems as un-hittable as ever. Rivera was never rickety against the Royals. His first save was only really a footnote Friday. Mo discarded two KC hitters in the ninth via the strikeout in his only inning of work. Brian Bruney relieved Pettitte prior to Mariano’s entrance in the game. Brian struck out two batters himself in the eighth inning. Bruney and the other Yankee relievers have not allowed a hit since Monday night’s loss in Baltimore. A tantalizing try from the bullpen is important because it will determine close games.
Posada has been the outstanding outlet the team needs at the plate. Yesterday his two RBIs in the first inning planted the seed early. Nick Swisher, the gritty outfielder, added an RBI and Derek Jeter drove in the final Yankee run. Snappy Swisher was less than crisp in the field. Nick botched a Mike Jacobs fly ball to right-center that allowed Billy Butler to score the Royals’ only run.
The dull, offensively-inept Kansas City Royals had a shortened lineup due to the injury to Jose Guillen. Guillen was recently named the highest paid Royal in history. The cold bats were were obvious yesterday afternoon. Save for Billy Butler and Mike Aviles, the Royals showed no signs of swinging for success. Kansas City is average 10 strikeouts per game over their first four of the year. First baseman, Mike Jacobs, was added to the team this winter. Jacobs smacked 32 taters for the Marlins in 2008. David DeJesus displays muscle and now has to bear the burden of a power spot in the order. The team does not have a guy who can draw walks, so it will be difficult for them to get on base with regularity. Jacobs and Guillen can hit for extra bases, but Kansas City’s scoring opportunities are limited to their subpar sluggers.
The Royals’ few opportunities yesterday resulted in unconverted runs. The lineup was stacked with lefties against the southpaw Andy on the mound. Pettitte was imposing on the young opposing lineup. He commanded and located well, and got 0-2 counts on many of the hitters he faced. The 36 year old got them to chase bad pitches and loft lazy popups for easy outs.
Former Yankees, Sidney Ponson and Kyle Farnsworth, were effective enough on the mound. Along with reliever Jamey Wright, the three held New York to four runs in the newly renovated Kaufmann Stadium opener. Ponson is a notorious groundball pitcher and Farnsworth can throw flames, so the score does not surprise. Robinson Cano has been the hottest hitter in the New York lineup. Joe Girardi expects a big year from his second baseman. Chalky Cano can drive the ball and has been a more selective hitter at the plate. He drew a two-out walk in the top of the fifth inning. Ponson then came back to fan Swisher on a corner slider. KC manager, Trey Hillman, yanked Ponson after the sixth inning and 104 pitches. Farnsworth came in and immediately stamped out three Yankee lefties for a one-two-three seventh. Wright’s eight inning saw him picking off Brett Gardner at first base for the second out. Wright was defensively sound on the mound in tackling a Jeter come backer for the third out.
The Royals rotation is not half-bad with Zack Grienke, Gil Meche, Kyle Davies and Ponson. If they can get any production from their everyday players at the plate, I think they will cause some fits. All are pressure pitchers when they bring their best games to the dirt. Horacio Ramirez is the fifth starter and will take the hill against C.C. Sabathia in game two this evening. The team is young and unproven in the field. On defense, the Royals will miss Guillen because they surely have a deficit in the outfield. Guillen was placed only on the 15-day DL, so they won’t have to go without him for long. Guillen is a head case at times, but will be called upon to convey leadership. Alberto Callaspo, made a mistake when he threw out Hideki Matsui at first instead of tagging Johnny Damon and Aviles misplayed a Cano slap up the middle. Neither were errors, but both could have cut the innings short. It seems like such a long time ago Tony Pena was managing this playoff contending club. Now he sits quietly in the Yankee dugout as bench coach. Pena only gets on the Kauffmann Stadium field to provide the umpire his lineup and shake hands after the game.
Parting points: “With or without you” by U2 is turned up load this morning
New York has put together back-to-back worthwhile pitching performances behind Pettitte and A.J. Burnett. The team has gotten length from both starting pitchers and will need the same from Sabathia, Wang and Chamberlain. Burnett harvested his first win during his rehearsal in pinstripes. Burnett demonstrated his capability of crippling the opposition by beating the Baltimore Orioles. His curveball was effective and he threw down in the zone Thursday. The O’s don’t rate high in most statistical categories, but have a surprisingly superb and underrated crop of clubbers.
Mariano Rivera came in to close out the Royals in his usual unplumbed fashion. Mariano’s method makes pitching look easy and his cut fastball seems as un-hittable as ever. Rivera was never rickety against the Royals. His first save was only really a footnote Friday. Mo discarded two KC hitters in the ninth via the strikeout in his only inning of work. Brian Bruney relieved Pettitte prior to Mariano’s entrance in the game. Brian struck out two batters himself in the eighth inning. Bruney and the other Yankee relievers have not allowed a hit since Monday night’s loss in Baltimore. A tantalizing try from the bullpen is important because it will determine close games.
Posada has been the outstanding outlet the team needs at the plate. Yesterday his two RBIs in the first inning planted the seed early. Nick Swisher, the gritty outfielder, added an RBI and Derek Jeter drove in the final Yankee run. Snappy Swisher was less than crisp in the field. Nick botched a Mike Jacobs fly ball to right-center that allowed Billy Butler to score the Royals’ only run.
The dull, offensively-inept Kansas City Royals had a shortened lineup due to the injury to Jose Guillen. Guillen was recently named the highest paid Royal in history. The cold bats were were obvious yesterday afternoon. Save for Billy Butler and Mike Aviles, the Royals showed no signs of swinging for success. Kansas City is average 10 strikeouts per game over their first four of the year. First baseman, Mike Jacobs, was added to the team this winter. Jacobs smacked 32 taters for the Marlins in 2008. David DeJesus displays muscle and now has to bear the burden of a power spot in the order. The team does not have a guy who can draw walks, so it will be difficult for them to get on base with regularity. Jacobs and Guillen can hit for extra bases, but Kansas City’s scoring opportunities are limited to their subpar sluggers.
The Royals’ few opportunities yesterday resulted in unconverted runs. The lineup was stacked with lefties against the southpaw Andy on the mound. Pettitte was imposing on the young opposing lineup. He commanded and located well, and got 0-2 counts on many of the hitters he faced. The 36 year old got them to chase bad pitches and loft lazy popups for easy outs.
Former Yankees, Sidney Ponson and Kyle Farnsworth, were effective enough on the mound. Along with reliever Jamey Wright, the three held New York to four runs in the newly renovated Kaufmann Stadium opener. Ponson is a notorious groundball pitcher and Farnsworth can throw flames, so the score does not surprise. Robinson Cano has been the hottest hitter in the New York lineup. Joe Girardi expects a big year from his second baseman. Chalky Cano can drive the ball and has been a more selective hitter at the plate. He drew a two-out walk in the top of the fifth inning. Ponson then came back to fan Swisher on a corner slider. KC manager, Trey Hillman, yanked Ponson after the sixth inning and 104 pitches. Farnsworth came in and immediately stamped out three Yankee lefties for a one-two-three seventh. Wright’s eight inning saw him picking off Brett Gardner at first base for the second out. Wright was defensively sound on the mound in tackling a Jeter come backer for the third out.
The Royals rotation is not half-bad with Zack Grienke, Gil Meche, Kyle Davies and Ponson. If they can get any production from their everyday players at the plate, I think they will cause some fits. All are pressure pitchers when they bring their best games to the dirt. Horacio Ramirez is the fifth starter and will take the hill against C.C. Sabathia in game two this evening. The team is young and unproven in the field. On defense, the Royals will miss Guillen because they surely have a deficit in the outfield. Guillen was placed only on the 15-day DL, so they won’t have to go without him for long. Guillen is a head case at times, but will be called upon to convey leadership. Alberto Callaspo, made a mistake when he threw out Hideki Matsui at first instead of tagging Johnny Damon and Aviles misplayed a Cano slap up the middle. Neither were errors, but both could have cut the innings short. It seems like such a long time ago Tony Pena was managing this playoff contending club. Now he sits quietly in the Yankee dugout as bench coach. Pena only gets on the Kauffmann Stadium field to provide the umpire his lineup and shake hands after the game.
Parting points: “With or without you” by U2 is turned up load this morning
Friday, April 10, 2009
Good Game
A rookie pitcher took the hill with a hat so frayed
The ball jumped to the plate, an instant impression he made
He poked and punched pitches, such power conveyed
He kept striking saliently, no longer subject to trade
Out after out, beleaguered and baffled batters he laid
Good game adulations applauded him as hands swayed
Back in the clubhouse, on his knees he prayed
He started the shower thankful for success, flowing water sprayed
He departed diligently, wishing forever he could have stayed
Day after day, we’ll remember the last game he played
Parting points: Thoughts and prayers go out to the family and loved ones of Nick Adenhart after yesterday‘s tragedy.
The ball jumped to the plate, an instant impression he made
He poked and punched pitches, such power conveyed
He kept striking saliently, no longer subject to trade
Out after out, beleaguered and baffled batters he laid
Good game adulations applauded him as hands swayed
Back in the clubhouse, on his knees he prayed
He started the shower thankful for success, flowing water sprayed
He departed diligently, wishing forever he could have stayed
Day after day, we’ll remember the last game he played
Parting points: Thoughts and prayers go out to the family and loved ones of Nick Adenhart after yesterday‘s tragedy.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Thursday Take Twos
New York baseball fans prematurely have the Mets’ NL East title in the bag and are anointing Daniel Murphy an all-star. Yankees fans are crying for a new pitcher, manager and first baseman after suffering two consecutive losses in Baltimore to begin the season. While Johan Santana finally received the bailout he sought all last season, it’s still too early to detect how the Mets will fair the remainder of the Spring, let alone the summer. Santana flattened the Reds Opening Day in the relentless rain. Mike Pelfrey struggled through four innings before being pulled. Mike’s sinker just wasn’t sinking last night. Joey Botto slammed a Pelfrey pitch that failed to sink after he worked the count well. Pelfrey notched the win because the Mets held their lead and were able to get the hits they needed. There is reason to be pleased with the bullpen and both games in Cincinnati have been good wins for the Mets. Today was not so great for the Mets, as Oliver Perez surrendered eight runs. Perez got the first six Reds out but could not hold the Mets lead. The team went on to lose 8-6.
Carlos Delgado jacked a bomb last night that sent shivers down your spine. The man sure can hit and is the team spirit. Delgado set the bar for low, inside fastball hitters in the 1990’s. I think the key to Carlos’ success at the plate is his front left leg resting in the corner of the batter’s box. This stance enables him to open up and turn his hips with quick reaction time. It hardly mattered that the Reds infield enacted the modified shift against the pounding pull-hitting lefty. Carlos could have clubbed and clobbered Volquez’s pitch with a cue stick the way his bat whipped around last night. Delgado times his swing just so, with perfect prowess, proficiency and aptitude. I noticed Volquez threw the same exact fastball to the ensuring hitter, Carlos Beltran. Beltran belted the ball up the middle.
Murphy is a fine two-hole hitter and humble kid. I think his better days will outshine his worst for the Mets, but let’s not start the Paul O’Neill comparisons. O’Neill is a sacred stature in New York and Murphy has a long way to go.
Yankees fans need not fret frantically yet. Pinstripe backers witnessed C.C. Sabathia’s worst career start Monday night when the hefty hurler failed to record a strikeout for the first time ever. Last night, Chieng-Ming Wang was wobbly at best and allowed seven runs in just four innings of work. If Girardi thought he was on the hot seat heading into Wednesday night, now he has to be checking for pink slips (a bit of a gross exaggeration) The Yankee bullpen was the bright side last night but Monday, the relievers did nothing to help the team’s cause. The Yankees historically are tested by rookie pitchers, and last night was more of the same against the Orioles. It’s going to be a long year if Yankee fans analyze and scrutinize each loss. Fans have to realize the length of the baseball season will constitute many ups and downs. Today was a little brighter for the Bronx Bombers. Fans witnessed Mark Texeira’s first Yankee homerun and Phil Coke struck out the two left-handers he faced after relieving an economical A.J. Burnett. Burnett left the game with the lead in tact during the sixth after throwing exactly 100 pitches.
7th inning stretch (this is a new idea of mine, a little break in the action…)
Calming Cadence
I keep a red-stitched baseball on my nightstand at home. It’s a constant reminder of something tangible that gives me peace of mind. Baseball is beautiful and I can go off on a tangent talking about the special sport. Today after work, there wasn’t a thing in the world that could ruin the fact local baseball was being played. The game takes on a whole new meaning when I invest my energy in each pitch and play. People often use the phrase, “poetry in motion”, to describe brilliance. To me, watching baseball is poetry in motion. The game makes me come alive with radiance. The camera views from the mound electrify an innate interest in my soul. I listen to vendors in the distance selling popcorn and pretzels as pitchers prepare their location 60 ft, 6 inches from their heart. The story on the field unfolds as the hitter guesses, right or wrong, the type of pitch he will see. He knocks dirt from the inside of his cleats by tapping the wooden bat against them. Then the batter leans in towards the plate with a swaying stick in hand, waiting to wallop a pitch in his wheelhouse. The ball swirls friendly in the heavy air and fielders set their stares towards to scene. With frenzied fans eyeing the drama, the ball crosses the plate. Three bags are propped properly inside a diamond of white-painted sidelines. They are vacant props, but I know will be occupied by players sneaking leads.
Baseball was meant to save, and I honestly believe it is my savior. Whenever I am stressed out, sick, or stuck in a rut, I turn to the sport that makes me most happy. Less is more. The theory is true as it applies to baseball.
Ok back to the game…
I hear they banned alcohol at Rogers Centre in Toronto for three games due to unruly fans. As if the Bluejays didn’t have enough trouble reeling fans into their park, now they will have to watch games in a dry environment. The Jays are disenchanting and Canada needs a team to breath new life into the area. The visiting Tigers were enough to generate craziness. I can only wonder with wistful worry what an actual ball club would instigate.
The Uconn women’s basketball team completed an undefeated season to win the national championship Tuesday night. The unbeknownst, Tina Charles, took home MVP honors as the Huskies crushed Louisville in the final game. It’s a credit to the head coach and they women of the program to accomplish what they have in Connecticut. Women’s basketball is less violent than men’s at the NCAA level. Though, it is just as pleasing sometimes and there is more depth in today’s game than years before. The way Uconn swept through the competition this year was remarkable. The team tallied turnovers as often as the most liquid asset converts to cash. The fireworks on offense were incredible again this year for Geno Auriemma. Auriemma now can claim six national championships and has the respect of people across coaching lines.
The NBA Hall of Fame class announced the addition of Michael Jordan, John Stockton, David Robinson, Jerry Sloan and C. Vivian Stringer. Jordan should really have a Hall of Fame all to himself in my opinion. Jordan was a single-man wrecking crew with mesmerizing reverse layups and unforgettable fade-away jumpers. M.J. was one of my favorites because of his breathtaking and torching basketball ability. I am sure he will deliver a poignant speech during the induction. I always admired “The Admiral” Robinson too. His Spurs were NBA champions twice during his 14 year career in San Antonio. Sloan and Stockton both made their names in Utah. Sloan is the longest tenured coach with a single franchise in all the major league sports. Stockton was a Gonzaga product who was an assist animal. Stringer is Rutgers’ leading lady with 825 career wins just about four decades in women’s college basketball.
DeJuan Blair and Blake Griffin are going pro. Both college hoopsters can shoot buckets satisfactorily and will enter the NBA draft. The standout sophomore from Oklahoma, Griffin, is projected as the first overall pick. Pittsburgh’s Blair will probably also go in the first round. Blair is a wizard dribbler and colossal clutch shooter.
North Carolina had the Michigan Spartans completely out of their element. The homogenous but honorable Tarheel effort is worth mentioning. NC had the best players and a most excellent coach on the court at the end of the year. They were abrupt, adept, adroit and agonizingly arresting Monday. Roy Williams’ lofty expectations were complete once he cut down the net and shared another championship with his team of gutsy believers. The Tarheels had quite the arsenal and deserved to win it all, but I would have enjoyed seeing at least one Big East team in the finals. Still, NC fans should soak up and swallow this win as one of the more memorable college teams will be unraveled at year’s end.
The golf world turns their eyes to August National for the Masters. The same storyline is effortlessly established with Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson being the headliners headed for a Sunday showdown spat. Tiger redefined the meaning of success as an athlete, and Mickelson is the blue collar hero of the sport. Lefty is looking for another green jacket in the 73rd year of the event. Wood hasn’t worn the green since 2005. His drought could end tee time on a sunny Easter Sunday.
Quick trivia: Do you remember the defending champ? (Trevor Immelman)
Parting points: “409” by Beach Boys is today’s trippin’ tune.
Carlos Delgado jacked a bomb last night that sent shivers down your spine. The man sure can hit and is the team spirit. Delgado set the bar for low, inside fastball hitters in the 1990’s. I think the key to Carlos’ success at the plate is his front left leg resting in the corner of the batter’s box. This stance enables him to open up and turn his hips with quick reaction time. It hardly mattered that the Reds infield enacted the modified shift against the pounding pull-hitting lefty. Carlos could have clubbed and clobbered Volquez’s pitch with a cue stick the way his bat whipped around last night. Delgado times his swing just so, with perfect prowess, proficiency and aptitude. I noticed Volquez threw the same exact fastball to the ensuring hitter, Carlos Beltran. Beltran belted the ball up the middle.
Murphy is a fine two-hole hitter and humble kid. I think his better days will outshine his worst for the Mets, but let’s not start the Paul O’Neill comparisons. O’Neill is a sacred stature in New York and Murphy has a long way to go.
Yankees fans need not fret frantically yet. Pinstripe backers witnessed C.C. Sabathia’s worst career start Monday night when the hefty hurler failed to record a strikeout for the first time ever. Last night, Chieng-Ming Wang was wobbly at best and allowed seven runs in just four innings of work. If Girardi thought he was on the hot seat heading into Wednesday night, now he has to be checking for pink slips (a bit of a gross exaggeration) The Yankee bullpen was the bright side last night but Monday, the relievers did nothing to help the team’s cause. The Yankees historically are tested by rookie pitchers, and last night was more of the same against the Orioles. It’s going to be a long year if Yankee fans analyze and scrutinize each loss. Fans have to realize the length of the baseball season will constitute many ups and downs. Today was a little brighter for the Bronx Bombers. Fans witnessed Mark Texeira’s first Yankee homerun and Phil Coke struck out the two left-handers he faced after relieving an economical A.J. Burnett. Burnett left the game with the lead in tact during the sixth after throwing exactly 100 pitches.
7th inning stretch (this is a new idea of mine, a little break in the action…)
Calming Cadence
I keep a red-stitched baseball on my nightstand at home. It’s a constant reminder of something tangible that gives me peace of mind. Baseball is beautiful and I can go off on a tangent talking about the special sport. Today after work, there wasn’t a thing in the world that could ruin the fact local baseball was being played. The game takes on a whole new meaning when I invest my energy in each pitch and play. People often use the phrase, “poetry in motion”, to describe brilliance. To me, watching baseball is poetry in motion. The game makes me come alive with radiance. The camera views from the mound electrify an innate interest in my soul. I listen to vendors in the distance selling popcorn and pretzels as pitchers prepare their location 60 ft, 6 inches from their heart. The story on the field unfolds as the hitter guesses, right or wrong, the type of pitch he will see. He knocks dirt from the inside of his cleats by tapping the wooden bat against them. Then the batter leans in towards the plate with a swaying stick in hand, waiting to wallop a pitch in his wheelhouse. The ball swirls friendly in the heavy air and fielders set their stares towards to scene. With frenzied fans eyeing the drama, the ball crosses the plate. Three bags are propped properly inside a diamond of white-painted sidelines. They are vacant props, but I know will be occupied by players sneaking leads.
Baseball was meant to save, and I honestly believe it is my savior. Whenever I am stressed out, sick, or stuck in a rut, I turn to the sport that makes me most happy. Less is more. The theory is true as it applies to baseball.
Ok back to the game…
I hear they banned alcohol at Rogers Centre in Toronto for three games due to unruly fans. As if the Bluejays didn’t have enough trouble reeling fans into their park, now they will have to watch games in a dry environment. The Jays are disenchanting and Canada needs a team to breath new life into the area. The visiting Tigers were enough to generate craziness. I can only wonder with wistful worry what an actual ball club would instigate.
The Uconn women’s basketball team completed an undefeated season to win the national championship Tuesday night. The unbeknownst, Tina Charles, took home MVP honors as the Huskies crushed Louisville in the final game. It’s a credit to the head coach and they women of the program to accomplish what they have in Connecticut. Women’s basketball is less violent than men’s at the NCAA level. Though, it is just as pleasing sometimes and there is more depth in today’s game than years before. The way Uconn swept through the competition this year was remarkable. The team tallied turnovers as often as the most liquid asset converts to cash. The fireworks on offense were incredible again this year for Geno Auriemma. Auriemma now can claim six national championships and has the respect of people across coaching lines.
The NBA Hall of Fame class announced the addition of Michael Jordan, John Stockton, David Robinson, Jerry Sloan and C. Vivian Stringer. Jordan should really have a Hall of Fame all to himself in my opinion. Jordan was a single-man wrecking crew with mesmerizing reverse layups and unforgettable fade-away jumpers. M.J. was one of my favorites because of his breathtaking and torching basketball ability. I am sure he will deliver a poignant speech during the induction. I always admired “The Admiral” Robinson too. His Spurs were NBA champions twice during his 14 year career in San Antonio. Sloan and Stockton both made their names in Utah. Sloan is the longest tenured coach with a single franchise in all the major league sports. Stockton was a Gonzaga product who was an assist animal. Stringer is Rutgers’ leading lady with 825 career wins just about four decades in women’s college basketball.
DeJuan Blair and Blake Griffin are going pro. Both college hoopsters can shoot buckets satisfactorily and will enter the NBA draft. The standout sophomore from Oklahoma, Griffin, is projected as the first overall pick. Pittsburgh’s Blair will probably also go in the first round. Blair is a wizard dribbler and colossal clutch shooter.
North Carolina had the Michigan Spartans completely out of their element. The homogenous but honorable Tarheel effort is worth mentioning. NC had the best players and a most excellent coach on the court at the end of the year. They were abrupt, adept, adroit and agonizingly arresting Monday. Roy Williams’ lofty expectations were complete once he cut down the net and shared another championship with his team of gutsy believers. The Tarheels had quite the arsenal and deserved to win it all, but I would have enjoyed seeing at least one Big East team in the finals. Still, NC fans should soak up and swallow this win as one of the more memorable college teams will be unraveled at year’s end.
The golf world turns their eyes to August National for the Masters. The same storyline is effortlessly established with Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson being the headliners headed for a Sunday showdown spat. Tiger redefined the meaning of success as an athlete, and Mickelson is the blue collar hero of the sport. Lefty is looking for another green jacket in the 73rd year of the event. Wood hasn’t worn the green since 2005. His drought could end tee time on a sunny Easter Sunday.
Quick trivia: Do you remember the defending champ? (Trevor Immelman)
Parting points: “409” by Beach Boys is today’s trippin’ tune.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Presenting Philosophical Problems
My favorite college course was called “Philosophy of Sport in Education”. I took it my freshmen year and looked forward to the morning lectures twice a week. Most of my classmates were athletes majoring in Education who were required to take the course. I took it as an elective and sat in the front row. The professor did not assign us a textbook the entire semester. Instead, we read books written by great coaches and about athletes who scribed their own how-to paperbacks. Topics ranged from sportsmanship to steroids, and gamesmanship to good coaching techniques. One discussion we never acutely addressed was how we would react as an athlete if a coach approached us asking to help a fellow teammate. I was pondering this out of the blue today and decided today’s blog would make my audience think.
Sometimes you hear stories about veteran catchers teaching rookies certain ways to handle pitches behind the plate or influential quarterbacks giving advice to sidelined stand-ins. Jerry Manuel has to decide whether or not he will play Gary Sheffield, the veteran outfielder the Mets just signed. He could opt to replace the rookie, Daniel Murphy, or struggling right fielder, Ryan Church. Or, he could bench Sheffield and have him used as a pinch hitter in the clutch. Manuel must be torn about playing Luis Castillo at second base despite his bleak bat. The general manager re-signed Castillo and now Luis is the starting second baseman. Jerry has to pay the player his boss is paying the big bucks instead of a more talented option.
What would you do as a if you had to be a mentor and coach a younger teammate, knowing he or she could possibly take over your position on the team if they bettered themselves? What if you knew they were more talented and would make the team better, but you did not want to sacrifice your spot? If a younger player could catapult his status and scoot past an older one, how would that affect his ego? Would the player accept a lower role even if they could do more on the field? Should coaches use seniority as an underlying rule when writing out rosters?
Personally, I am not sure I would take the high road myself. I would probably be willing to at least offer my advice and work out with the other player. But I would only go so far. Meaning, I would not let on all my tacit knowledge. I consider myself a team player and fair person. I also trust my own ability, so it would be fine by me helping out another player. It is enjoyable and rewarding to offer sound advice based on personal athletic experience to inquiring teammates. But I would have a hard time really becoming involved in the progression of a colleague. It sounds selfish to snub a teammate, but as an athlete, you need to take care of playing time for yourself first. The job of coaching should be left to the head coach. Athletes should focus on managing their own strengths and weaknesses. It is not necessary to add another element to their agenda, especially at the college level. Teamwork and bonding is one thing, but asking to play second fiddle and be a supplemental coaching assistant is going too far.
Skills speak for themselves most of the time, and at higher levels of play, it does not matter how much a coach teaches. You either have the talent or you don’t. But at more amateur and high school levels, there is competition and most of the players are on an even playing field jockeying for position on teams. If the tables were turned and I was the better athlete on the team, but the newcomer, I think I would concede my position for at least a year. In fact, I’ve had to do this more than once. I knew in my mind that my time would eventually come. I had to make my bones, so to speak. It is not always the easiest decision for anybody, and I am sure coaches feel intimated benching seasoned players. The question of integrity becomes an issue in this particular case. Who is responsible for undertaking the task of creating a happy clubhouse? The manager commandeers that control. Players should and must be willing to accept the outcomes. A coach should not feel obligated to play a certain person simply because of age or loyalty. Not everyone is going to be pleased, but the role of a coach is to also teach sportsmanship. Too often team dissonance and conflict cripples production. Successful coaches find ways to work around these problem areas.
Parting points: “Sorry I’m not home right now, I’m walking into spider webs”- No Doubt. Have you heard? No Doubt is going on a reunion tour this summer. Sweet!
Sometimes you hear stories about veteran catchers teaching rookies certain ways to handle pitches behind the plate or influential quarterbacks giving advice to sidelined stand-ins. Jerry Manuel has to decide whether or not he will play Gary Sheffield, the veteran outfielder the Mets just signed. He could opt to replace the rookie, Daniel Murphy, or struggling right fielder, Ryan Church. Or, he could bench Sheffield and have him used as a pinch hitter in the clutch. Manuel must be torn about playing Luis Castillo at second base despite his bleak bat. The general manager re-signed Castillo and now Luis is the starting second baseman. Jerry has to pay the player his boss is paying the big bucks instead of a more talented option.
What would you do as a if you had to be a mentor and coach a younger teammate, knowing he or she could possibly take over your position on the team if they bettered themselves? What if you knew they were more talented and would make the team better, but you did not want to sacrifice your spot? If a younger player could catapult his status and scoot past an older one, how would that affect his ego? Would the player accept a lower role even if they could do more on the field? Should coaches use seniority as an underlying rule when writing out rosters?
Personally, I am not sure I would take the high road myself. I would probably be willing to at least offer my advice and work out with the other player. But I would only go so far. Meaning, I would not let on all my tacit knowledge. I consider myself a team player and fair person. I also trust my own ability, so it would be fine by me helping out another player. It is enjoyable and rewarding to offer sound advice based on personal athletic experience to inquiring teammates. But I would have a hard time really becoming involved in the progression of a colleague. It sounds selfish to snub a teammate, but as an athlete, you need to take care of playing time for yourself first. The job of coaching should be left to the head coach. Athletes should focus on managing their own strengths and weaknesses. It is not necessary to add another element to their agenda, especially at the college level. Teamwork and bonding is one thing, but asking to play second fiddle and be a supplemental coaching assistant is going too far.
Skills speak for themselves most of the time, and at higher levels of play, it does not matter how much a coach teaches. You either have the talent or you don’t. But at more amateur and high school levels, there is competition and most of the players are on an even playing field jockeying for position on teams. If the tables were turned and I was the better athlete on the team, but the newcomer, I think I would concede my position for at least a year. In fact, I’ve had to do this more than once. I knew in my mind that my time would eventually come. I had to make my bones, so to speak. It is not always the easiest decision for anybody, and I am sure coaches feel intimated benching seasoned players. The question of integrity becomes an issue in this particular case. Who is responsible for undertaking the task of creating a happy clubhouse? The manager commandeers that control. Players should and must be willing to accept the outcomes. A coach should not feel obligated to play a certain person simply because of age or loyalty. Not everyone is going to be pleased, but the role of a coach is to also teach sportsmanship. Too often team dissonance and conflict cripples production. Successful coaches find ways to work around these problem areas.
Parting points: “Sorry I’m not home right now, I’m walking into spider webs”- No Doubt. Have you heard? No Doubt is going on a reunion tour this summer. Sweet!
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