Another All-Star game down, another American League domination. The AL ruled baseball’s annual grand stage on St. Louis Tuesday night to claim home field advantage in the 2009 World Series. The junior league controlled the senior circuit in a 4-3 victory. They came from behind for the fourth straight year to slip past the NL for the win.
Carl Crawford provided the highlight catch and was rewarded the game’s MVP. The Rays’ speedy and talented outfielder pulled back a homerun with a leaping grab in the 7th inning. The ball was jacked to deep left-center by the leadoff hitter, Brad Hawpe of the Rockies. Crawford raced to meet the ball and picturesquely picked it off the wall to preserve a 3-3 tie.
The American League jumped to a 2-0 lead early in the first inning off San Francisco starter, Tim Lincecum. The first six batters Lincecum faced reached base safely. Seattle’s Ichiro Suzuki singled and New York’s Derek Jeter was hit by an inside high heater. Minnesota Twins slugger, Joe Mauer, reached on a fielder’s choice before NL first baseman and hometown crowd favorite, Albert Pujols, committed an error on a Mark Teixeira’s groundball. Jeter scored on the miscue for the first run of the hyped event. Mauer scored two batters later with Josh Hamilton earning an RBI.
Roy Halladay was the slated starter for the American League. Halladay was roughed up in the second by the NL lineup. It would be the National League’s only scoring on the night. Yadier Molina of the Cardinals singled on a two out Halladay offering to score the Mets’ David Wright. Philadelphia’s Shane Victorino also scored when Hamilton overthrew his teammate from Texas, Michael Young, at third base. The ball slided off Victorino and skidded near the third base dugout. Homerun derby winner, Prince Fielder, represented the Brewers only RBI in the All-Star game. Fielder delivered a double to give the NL a 3-2 advantage before the NL bats were silenced. Hanley Ramirez grounded out to end the inning and the AL pitchers went on to retire 18 consecutive batters. Adrian Gonzalez drew a two out walk in the eighth to finally give the NL a base runner. The red-clad Cardinals fans watched Pujols go 0 for 3 at the dish on his shining night. The first baseman who wears number five did make a pair of impressive defensive plays to rob Jeter and Teixeira of hits. It was the first time since 1966 the game was played in St. Louis.
Mauer tied the game in the fifth inning off the Dodgers’ Chad Billingsley. He clubbed a two out double to notch the game at three. American League relievers combining for 1-2-3 innings each included Mark Buehrle, Zack Greinke, Edwin Jackson, Felix Hernandez, and Jonathan Papelbon. Papelbon was credited with the win and the Yankees’ Mariano Rivera the save. Rivera pitched a perfect ninth for his fifth All-Star game save.
First time All-Star, Curtis Granderson, socked the go-ahead and eventual game-winning triple in the top of the eighth off of Heath Bell. Justin Upton, Arizona’s outfielder playing out of position in left, had a hard time playing the ball off the carom. Granderson was able to leg out a three bagger because Upton was stalled. After Boston’s Kevin Youkilis was intentionally walked, the Orioles’ Adam Jones scored Granderson with his timely sacrifice fly. Tuesday was Jones’ first All-Star appearance.
It was the same old story for the NL. The league without a designated hitter can’t seem to overcome the All-Star drought that has plagued them since 1996. The AL has now has a 40-38-2 record against their counterparts.
Parting points: Song of the day- “Everyday is a Winding Road”- Sheryl Crow
Happy Birthday to Brian Austin Green.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Second Stint
The New Jersey Devils announced their new head coach yesterday. Former Devils Stanley Cup-winning coach, Jacques Lemaire, returns to New Jersey after Brent Sutter resigned his position over a month ago. Lemaire takes over for a team that has suffered two straight first-round playoff disappointments and hasn’t won a championship in six seasons. The Devils are looking for a chance to rekindle and reawaken the team with the coach who led them to their first NHL title. Lemaire left the Devils in 1998 with a 199-122-57 record.
Lemaire anchored the 1995 New Jersey Devils to the Stanley Cup and the 63 year old coached the team through five seasons. He recently resigned as the Minnesota Wild head coach after being with the team since their expansion inception in 2000. Lemaire stepped down, citing he took the Wild as far as he could. Minnesota made the playoffs three times under Lemaire’s trying tutelage.
General manager, Lou Lamoriello, assigned Lemaire the vacated job on Monday after agreeing on a contract last weekend. As a player, coach and executive, Lemaire is a 11 time Stanley Cup winner. His coaching resume includes stops in Montreal, New Jersey and Minnesota and now Lemaire will start his second stint with the 2009-10 Devils. Lamoriello also announced new assistant coaching positions for the team. Mario Tremblay, Tommy Albelin and Jacques Caron are the three assistants starring under Lemaire. Tremblay is completely new to the organization and was Lemaire’s assistant in Minnesota. The defensive leader for the Wild, Tremblay intends to be an influence in New Jersey’s progression on the rink. The Devils are a very offensive team, but it should be good to see Tremblay infuse his tactics on the defensive end. I think that is where the Devils struggled last season, and especially when they gave up two late goals to the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 7 of the post-season. A bit of physicality would be a good thing if it means the Devils crawl closer to the cup again.
The team also announced in Monday’s teleconference that current assistant coach, John MacLean, would take over in Lowell, Massachusetts for the baby Devils of the AHL. I thought MacLean was the leading man to take over for Sutter, but he was once again passed over for the former feature flame.
The hiring of Lemaire is a solid move and I am pleased with the decision by Lamoriello. The organization is heading in the right direction and after eight seasons in Minnesota, Lemaire may just need a change of scenery to become the powerful leader he was in the 1990s for New Jersey. Lemaire’s defensive system propelled the prosperous Devils to their first Stanley Cup. The roster is in dire need of a firepower fine-tuning. The Wild teams under Lemaire were in the top five in goals against the last seven years. They were 22nd in scoring last season, so my only concern would be how Lemaire is going to guide the Devils offense to great heights. Some passion and hard work from the head coach might be enough to reinvent the wheel for 2009 Devils hockey.
Parting points: My favorite from Beck, “Girl”, resonating from my stereo. I love this weather and this is the ultimate summer tune.
Lemaire anchored the 1995 New Jersey Devils to the Stanley Cup and the 63 year old coached the team through five seasons. He recently resigned as the Minnesota Wild head coach after being with the team since their expansion inception in 2000. Lemaire stepped down, citing he took the Wild as far as he could. Minnesota made the playoffs three times under Lemaire’s trying tutelage.
General manager, Lou Lamoriello, assigned Lemaire the vacated job on Monday after agreeing on a contract last weekend. As a player, coach and executive, Lemaire is a 11 time Stanley Cup winner. His coaching resume includes stops in Montreal, New Jersey and Minnesota and now Lemaire will start his second stint with the 2009-10 Devils. Lamoriello also announced new assistant coaching positions for the team. Mario Tremblay, Tommy Albelin and Jacques Caron are the three assistants starring under Lemaire. Tremblay is completely new to the organization and was Lemaire’s assistant in Minnesota. The defensive leader for the Wild, Tremblay intends to be an influence in New Jersey’s progression on the rink. The Devils are a very offensive team, but it should be good to see Tremblay infuse his tactics on the defensive end. I think that is where the Devils struggled last season, and especially when they gave up two late goals to the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 7 of the post-season. A bit of physicality would be a good thing if it means the Devils crawl closer to the cup again.
The team also announced in Monday’s teleconference that current assistant coach, John MacLean, would take over in Lowell, Massachusetts for the baby Devils of the AHL. I thought MacLean was the leading man to take over for Sutter, but he was once again passed over for the former feature flame.
The hiring of Lemaire is a solid move and I am pleased with the decision by Lamoriello. The organization is heading in the right direction and after eight seasons in Minnesota, Lemaire may just need a change of scenery to become the powerful leader he was in the 1990s for New Jersey. Lemaire’s defensive system propelled the prosperous Devils to their first Stanley Cup. The roster is in dire need of a firepower fine-tuning. The Wild teams under Lemaire were in the top five in goals against the last seven years. They were 22nd in scoring last season, so my only concern would be how Lemaire is going to guide the Devils offense to great heights. Some passion and hard work from the head coach might be enough to reinvent the wheel for 2009 Devils hockey.
Parting points: My favorite from Beck, “Girl”, resonating from my stereo. I love this weather and this is the ultimate summer tune.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Andy's Angels Atrocity
The demonic Angels continue to haunt the New York Yankees in Anaheim. Bronx Bombers’ starter, Andy Pettitte, was reluctantly rocked by a rallying Angels team on Saturday afternoon in California. The unfriendly West Coast loss saw the Yankees fall two games behind the Boston Red Sox in the A.L. East. Boston hammered the hapless Kansas City Royals 15-9 last night, as John Smoltz picked up his first win as a Red Sox hurler.
The pesky Anaheim offense got the better of Pettitte in a seven run fifth inning. Pettitte was pulled from the game rashly after being roughed up. Mike Napoli knocked a nifty go-ahead double off New York reliever, Dave Robertson, in the fifth, and added a solo shot in the seventh for the Angels. The Yankees clubbed a season-high five long balls, including two each by Alex Rodriguez and the newest Bomber, Eric Hinske. Still, the Yankees were defeated by the grind-it-out home team.
Pettitte turned in a subpar mound performance and failed to go the distance to salvage an overused Bomber bullpen. New York’s magnificent southpaw was provided a four run cushion, but could not sustain the advantage against the team’s Achilles heal opponent. The Yankees were vaulted into a first place tie before heading out to SoCal to face their nemesis. But, the curse of the Angels that plagued Joe Torre has also hampered current New York skipper, Joe Girardi. Anaheim has 24 runs in the first two games against the flattened New Yorkers. The stubborn Angels’ base running was no match for the defensively depleted Bombers and the stadium caused more headaches yesterday.
Pettitte was brilliant through three scoreless innings until the fated fifth frame. The Angels administered a 14-8 comeback victory on their mindless way of spanking the Yanks even without sluggers Vladimir Guerrero and Torii Hunter. Anaheim leads the majors in come-from-behind wins with 26, one more than the Yankees. The Angels punished Yankee pitchers for 16 hits, counting the seven by Pettitte. The 37 year old did not survive past the fifth because of the big blow off Brandon Wood’s bat. Wood, a Triple A prospect recalled on Friday, socked a two run homer with no outs. Howie Kendrick capped off the inning with a single, good for two more Angel tallies.
Former Yankees outfielder, Bobby Abreu, candidly contributed three RBIs against his old team. Jared Weaver started on the hill for the Angels. Weaver surrendered Rodriguez’s 569th career blast in the first. Arod would dish out a second serving later in the game to place the All-star third baseman 10th on the all-time homerun list. Hinske, an acquisition from Pittsburgh last week, homered in the second inning, his second as a Bomber. Robinson Cano extended the Yankees lead in the fourth inning to 4-0 when his single resulted in two runs. Hinske smacked his second shot in the seventh off Darren Oliver. Jason Bulger, pitching in relief for the Angels, issued Arod’s second tater, and Hideki Matsui reverberated as the very next batter.
The Yankees cut the Angels lead to two when Hinske lined out to second with the tying run at the plate. New York inched as close as they could manage before the Angels offense exploded for a second time. Anaheim tacked on four more runs in the bottom of the eighth off Phil Coke to put the afternoon out of reach for the Yankees. Pettitte took the upsetting loss, enduring his second straight. The left-hander’s 2009 stands at 8-5 and his ERA at 5.94 in his last four outings. Saturday was Arod’s first multihomer gem of the year. The Yankees are just 7-17 in Anaheim the past five seasons. Friday night Joba Chamberlain and the Yankees were on the losing side because the Angels staged a comeback from a 5-1 deficit. The opening game was perhaps a microcosm of the way things are headed as the Bombers close out the series today.
Parting points: Song of the day- “Angel of Mine”- Monica
The pesky Anaheim offense got the better of Pettitte in a seven run fifth inning. Pettitte was pulled from the game rashly after being roughed up. Mike Napoli knocked a nifty go-ahead double off New York reliever, Dave Robertson, in the fifth, and added a solo shot in the seventh for the Angels. The Yankees clubbed a season-high five long balls, including two each by Alex Rodriguez and the newest Bomber, Eric Hinske. Still, the Yankees were defeated by the grind-it-out home team.
Pettitte turned in a subpar mound performance and failed to go the distance to salvage an overused Bomber bullpen. New York’s magnificent southpaw was provided a four run cushion, but could not sustain the advantage against the team’s Achilles heal opponent. The Yankees were vaulted into a first place tie before heading out to SoCal to face their nemesis. But, the curse of the Angels that plagued Joe Torre has also hampered current New York skipper, Joe Girardi. Anaheim has 24 runs in the first two games against the flattened New Yorkers. The stubborn Angels’ base running was no match for the defensively depleted Bombers and the stadium caused more headaches yesterday.
Pettitte was brilliant through three scoreless innings until the fated fifth frame. The Angels administered a 14-8 comeback victory on their mindless way of spanking the Yanks even without sluggers Vladimir Guerrero and Torii Hunter. Anaheim leads the majors in come-from-behind wins with 26, one more than the Yankees. The Angels punished Yankee pitchers for 16 hits, counting the seven by Pettitte. The 37 year old did not survive past the fifth because of the big blow off Brandon Wood’s bat. Wood, a Triple A prospect recalled on Friday, socked a two run homer with no outs. Howie Kendrick capped off the inning with a single, good for two more Angel tallies.
Former Yankees outfielder, Bobby Abreu, candidly contributed three RBIs against his old team. Jared Weaver started on the hill for the Angels. Weaver surrendered Rodriguez’s 569th career blast in the first. Arod would dish out a second serving later in the game to place the All-star third baseman 10th on the all-time homerun list. Hinske, an acquisition from Pittsburgh last week, homered in the second inning, his second as a Bomber. Robinson Cano extended the Yankees lead in the fourth inning to 4-0 when his single resulted in two runs. Hinske smacked his second shot in the seventh off Darren Oliver. Jason Bulger, pitching in relief for the Angels, issued Arod’s second tater, and Hideki Matsui reverberated as the very next batter.
The Yankees cut the Angels lead to two when Hinske lined out to second with the tying run at the plate. New York inched as close as they could manage before the Angels offense exploded for a second time. Anaheim tacked on four more runs in the bottom of the eighth off Phil Coke to put the afternoon out of reach for the Yankees. Pettitte took the upsetting loss, enduring his second straight. The left-hander’s 2009 stands at 8-5 and his ERA at 5.94 in his last four outings. Saturday was Arod’s first multihomer gem of the year. The Yankees are just 7-17 in Anaheim the past five seasons. Friday night Joba Chamberlain and the Yankees were on the losing side because the Angels staged a comeback from a 5-1 deficit. The opening game was perhaps a microcosm of the way things are headed as the Bombers close out the series today.
Parting points: Song of the day- “Angel of Mine”- Monica
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Sanchez Stunner
Baseball’s first no hitter of 2009 occurred at A T & T Park in San Francisco as the hometown Giants shut out the visiting ball club from San Diego, 8-0. Jonathan Sanchez turned in a Randy Johnson vintage-like performance in his spot start for the sidelined left-handed hurler. Johnson went on the disabled list earlier this week because of shoulder problems. Sanchez, a recently-demoted Giant and pitcher in trade talk discussion, tossed the franchise’s first no-no in 33 years. An eighth inning fielding error stood in the way of perfect game.
The Puerto Rico native Sanchez returned to San Francisco’s rotation and shined in his second chance as a starter. The 26 year old southpaw was so bad this season for the Giants he was banished to the bullpen last month. Sanchez had not started a game since June 22nd for Bruce Bochy’s staff. He held a 3-8 record before Friday night’s unbelievable accomplishment. Sanchez was slotted into the schedule and showed complete control in his showcase start for Johnson. He threw breaking balls effectively and only allowed one base runner on Juan Uribe’s error at third base. Chase Headley reached when Uribe bobbled a hard-hit but routine grounder then fumbled in two attempts to throw the runner out at first.
Sanchez struck out a career high eleven Padres, and did not issue a walk on the night. He fanned Everth Cabrera looking to end the game facing his 28th batter, one more than the minimum. The closest San Diego came to breaking up Sanchez’s no-hit bid was in the ninth. Gold Glove outfielder, Aaron Rowand, saved the Giants’ pitcher when he banged into the wall to catch Edgar Gonzalez’s long drive to center. Sanchez won for the first time since May 25th. The trend of terrific starting pitching continues to keep the 2009 San Francisco Giants in the playoff hunt. Tim Lincecum was near perfect against the Padres before Tony Gwynn’s seventh inning hit a night before. Johnson earned his 300th win a few months ago, and Matt Cain and Barry Zito are two performers who can go the distance. If the Giants can get their offense rolling in the second half, Sanchez becomes another asset the team probably did not foresee being a factor down the stretch. The team leads the majors in shutouts this year, with 13 total. The Giants have a great culture capable of clarifying and contending with their crippling pitchers.
The last no-hit gem thrown by a San Francisco Giant was in 1976 by John Montefusco. It was the 13th no-hitter in club history. Sanchez did his with 110 pitches, 77 for strikes.
Parting points: On July 11, 1985, Nolan Ryan of the Houston Astros becomes the first pitcher in history to record 4,000 strikeouts. Ryan notches the milestone when he fans New York Mets outfielder Danny Heep on three pitches in the sixth inning.
Happy 150th birthday to Big Ben!
The Puerto Rico native Sanchez returned to San Francisco’s rotation and shined in his second chance as a starter. The 26 year old southpaw was so bad this season for the Giants he was banished to the bullpen last month. Sanchez had not started a game since June 22nd for Bruce Bochy’s staff. He held a 3-8 record before Friday night’s unbelievable accomplishment. Sanchez was slotted into the schedule and showed complete control in his showcase start for Johnson. He threw breaking balls effectively and only allowed one base runner on Juan Uribe’s error at third base. Chase Headley reached when Uribe bobbled a hard-hit but routine grounder then fumbled in two attempts to throw the runner out at first.
Sanchez struck out a career high eleven Padres, and did not issue a walk on the night. He fanned Everth Cabrera looking to end the game facing his 28th batter, one more than the minimum. The closest San Diego came to breaking up Sanchez’s no-hit bid was in the ninth. Gold Glove outfielder, Aaron Rowand, saved the Giants’ pitcher when he banged into the wall to catch Edgar Gonzalez’s long drive to center. Sanchez won for the first time since May 25th. The trend of terrific starting pitching continues to keep the 2009 San Francisco Giants in the playoff hunt. Tim Lincecum was near perfect against the Padres before Tony Gwynn’s seventh inning hit a night before. Johnson earned his 300th win a few months ago, and Matt Cain and Barry Zito are two performers who can go the distance. If the Giants can get their offense rolling in the second half, Sanchez becomes another asset the team probably did not foresee being a factor down the stretch. The team leads the majors in shutouts this year, with 13 total. The Giants have a great culture capable of clarifying and contending with their crippling pitchers.
The last no-hit gem thrown by a San Francisco Giant was in 1976 by John Montefusco. It was the 13th no-hitter in club history. Sanchez did his with 110 pitches, 77 for strikes.
Parting points: On July 11, 1985, Nolan Ryan of the Houston Astros becomes the first pitcher in history to record 4,000 strikeouts. Ryan notches the milestone when he fans New York Mets outfielder Danny Heep on three pitches in the sixth inning.
Happy 150th birthday to Big Ben!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Relocating Roy
The sweepstakes for the most coveted pitcher in the American League is officially on. The Philadelphia Phillies pursuit of Toronto’s ace places the World Series champions as the prime place for Roy Halladay’s services. Bluejays’ GM, J.P. Ricciardi, is smart to take offers for the superstar righty. Philadelphia would look even smarter if they invested in the former CY Young winner to add to a rotation that already includes stud pitcher and reigning World Series MVP, Cole Hamels.
The Jays are free falling out of contention in the A.L. East and looking to shop Halladay if the request is right. The Red Sox and Yankees are heating up with the summer sun and the Rays show no signs of cooling. Chances are, the wildcard will come out of the Eastern division but the Jays’ slim hopes are quickly fading. In addition to the dismal standing conditions, Toronto can ill afford to keep Halladay on their payroll beyond this season. The team owes Vernon Wells and Alex Rios an approximate $160 million. Wells has been quite the disappointing outfielder this year, showing remarkably diminished skills. Rios is worth his pay, but the Bluejays are looking to act now to cash in on their prized pitcher to improve future years. The trade market for quality starting pitching is barren and the All-Star Halladay would be an incredible pick up for any team. Offers for Roy are expected to be lucrative since he is one of the best in baseball. He could be a definite difference-maker for a team close to reaching the post-season.
The Phillies are the most likely candidate to strike gold at the mid-point and have been tracking Halladay’s status since the start of Spring. If Halladay pitches for the rest of 2009 and more, it is going to cost more than a top-notch prospect for a trade to ensue. The 32 year old has a no-trade clause and the right to name his team. He probably wants to play for a perennial contender and has a history of signing for less than he’s virtually worth Toronto was his team of choice in years’ past, but with the Jays remaining uncompetitive, Halladay may be ready to make a career move.
Toronto would not rule out dangling Roy in front the Red Sox or Yankees, and Halladay would not object to wearing those rival uniforms. New York would likely have to offer a package involving right-hander, Phil Hughes, or intriguing farmhand backstops, Jesus Montero or Austin Romine. Boston could potentially ship Clay Bucholz, the stunning hurler, to the Jays in a blockbuster trade for Halladay. Such a move would automatically upgrade the Red Sox to the top pitching staff in the league, with Josh Beckett and Halladay as the stiffling one-two punch.
The Phillies still make the most sense for a trade deadline deal. Their improved farm system offers optimal options, but presumably their payroll is already excessive. The Jays seek at least one MLB-ready position player and a top pitching prospect to groom for the 2010 season. Outfielders, Dominic Brown, John Mayberry, Jr., and Michael Taylor are peak entities in Philly. Young starters, J.A. Happ, Carlos Carrasco, Antonio Bastardo, and Kyle Drabek strategically make sense as trade bait in any combination for Halladay.
Most experts believe Halladay would thrive on a big market club despite his reserved personality. In terms of publicity, no doubt would Halladay be stirred up in Philadelphia, New York and Boston. The Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets are other playoff-minded teams in need of extra insurance on the mound. The Dodgers would love to round out an already phenomenal team by boosting their young rotation with a seasoned veteran talent. The Mets cannot afford to lose any more ground in the N.L. East. GM Omar Minaya should consider acquiring Halladay simply to keep him out of Philadelphia’s ballpark or the unlikely chance the Braves show interest in an attempt to win a wildcard spot. If Halladay has any sense, he wouldn’t accept a trade to a team currently without a shortstop, first baseman and centerfielder in New York. The Mets would have to empty their farm system to snag the righty off the competitive market.
Two California teams, the Angels and Giants, are also in the Halladay sweepstakes, although longshots. The Jays would probably ask for more than what the Angels are willing to offer in terms of a fair exchange. San Francisco has a highly regarded pitcher in Madison Bumgarner and may be willing to expand payroll if the team remains in the wildcard hunt on the senior circuit this summer.
The Brewers have two blue-chip prospects in Alcides Escobar and Mat Gamel. The mid-level Milwaukee front office would be hesitant to part with their future for a Roy rental after the C.C. Sabathia experiment last season. The Texas Rangers are desperate for pitching and knee-deep in quality prospects. But, the finances in Arlington are limited and Halladay may not be thrilled to throw in the hitter-friendly Texas park.
Whichever team lands the coveted ace will be lucky indeed. I did not expect Toronto to be shopping Roy at all this year. The fans have to go to the ballpark for something, and Roy appeared to be their reason.
Parting points: A day late, but a happy belated birthday to Beck. “Modern Guilt” is the album of the week.
The Jays are free falling out of contention in the A.L. East and looking to shop Halladay if the request is right. The Red Sox and Yankees are heating up with the summer sun and the Rays show no signs of cooling. Chances are, the wildcard will come out of the Eastern division but the Jays’ slim hopes are quickly fading. In addition to the dismal standing conditions, Toronto can ill afford to keep Halladay on their payroll beyond this season. The team owes Vernon Wells and Alex Rios an approximate $160 million. Wells has been quite the disappointing outfielder this year, showing remarkably diminished skills. Rios is worth his pay, but the Bluejays are looking to act now to cash in on their prized pitcher to improve future years. The trade market for quality starting pitching is barren and the All-Star Halladay would be an incredible pick up for any team. Offers for Roy are expected to be lucrative since he is one of the best in baseball. He could be a definite difference-maker for a team close to reaching the post-season.
The Phillies are the most likely candidate to strike gold at the mid-point and have been tracking Halladay’s status since the start of Spring. If Halladay pitches for the rest of 2009 and more, it is going to cost more than a top-notch prospect for a trade to ensue. The 32 year old has a no-trade clause and the right to name his team. He probably wants to play for a perennial contender and has a history of signing for less than he’s virtually worth Toronto was his team of choice in years’ past, but with the Jays remaining uncompetitive, Halladay may be ready to make a career move.
Toronto would not rule out dangling Roy in front the Red Sox or Yankees, and Halladay would not object to wearing those rival uniforms. New York would likely have to offer a package involving right-hander, Phil Hughes, or intriguing farmhand backstops, Jesus Montero or Austin Romine. Boston could potentially ship Clay Bucholz, the stunning hurler, to the Jays in a blockbuster trade for Halladay. Such a move would automatically upgrade the Red Sox to the top pitching staff in the league, with Josh Beckett and Halladay as the stiffling one-two punch.
The Phillies still make the most sense for a trade deadline deal. Their improved farm system offers optimal options, but presumably their payroll is already excessive. The Jays seek at least one MLB-ready position player and a top pitching prospect to groom for the 2010 season. Outfielders, Dominic Brown, John Mayberry, Jr., and Michael Taylor are peak entities in Philly. Young starters, J.A. Happ, Carlos Carrasco, Antonio Bastardo, and Kyle Drabek strategically make sense as trade bait in any combination for Halladay.
Most experts believe Halladay would thrive on a big market club despite his reserved personality. In terms of publicity, no doubt would Halladay be stirred up in Philadelphia, New York and Boston. The Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets are other playoff-minded teams in need of extra insurance on the mound. The Dodgers would love to round out an already phenomenal team by boosting their young rotation with a seasoned veteran talent. The Mets cannot afford to lose any more ground in the N.L. East. GM Omar Minaya should consider acquiring Halladay simply to keep him out of Philadelphia’s ballpark or the unlikely chance the Braves show interest in an attempt to win a wildcard spot. If Halladay has any sense, he wouldn’t accept a trade to a team currently without a shortstop, first baseman and centerfielder in New York. The Mets would have to empty their farm system to snag the righty off the competitive market.
Two California teams, the Angels and Giants, are also in the Halladay sweepstakes, although longshots. The Jays would probably ask for more than what the Angels are willing to offer in terms of a fair exchange. San Francisco has a highly regarded pitcher in Madison Bumgarner and may be willing to expand payroll if the team remains in the wildcard hunt on the senior circuit this summer.
The Brewers have two blue-chip prospects in Alcides Escobar and Mat Gamel. The mid-level Milwaukee front office would be hesitant to part with their future for a Roy rental after the C.C. Sabathia experiment last season. The Texas Rangers are desperate for pitching and knee-deep in quality prospects. But, the finances in Arlington are limited and Halladay may not be thrilled to throw in the hitter-friendly Texas park.
Whichever team lands the coveted ace will be lucky indeed. I did not expect Toronto to be shopping Roy at all this year. The fans have to go to the ballpark for something, and Roy appeared to be their reason.
Parting points: A day late, but a happy belated birthday to Beck. “Modern Guilt” is the album of the week.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Believable Best
The 1973 Ohio State Buckeyes are believably the best team in scarlet and gray football history. Coached by the legendary workhorse, Woody Hayes, the ‘73 team dominated the regular season on way to a 10-0-1 Big Ten conference co-championship season. The final game on the schedule, a November 24th showdown with rival Michigan, was the only Buckeye glitch. The game at Ann Arbor’s Big House resulted in a 10-10 tie and compounded a complicate, complex conclusion in the conference. The Big Ten’s athletic directors gathered to vote on which powerhouse would represent the conference in the Rose Bowl.
The Buckeyes went on to the procedural Pasadena production, and toppled the USC Trojans 42-21 in the ‘74 Rose Bowl game. Ohio State rolled up 323 ground yards that New Years’ and got revenge against the previous year’s humiliating 42-17 crushing by John McKay’s squad. The emphatic victory was accomplished with touchdowns by burly back, Pete Johnson and an automated, Archie Griffin. Johnson scored three touchdowns and Griffin padded the score in the fourth quarter with his swift 47 yard burst. USC was spotted a 21-14 third quarter lead in the ‘74 bowl game before Ohio State’s offense exploded for 28 second-half points. The Bucks buried the horsemen for a cool celebration in Southern California on an early winter day.
Sophomore quarterback, Cornelius Greene, propelled Hayes’ offense in 1973 with his gun for an arm. The flashy Greene was Hayes’ preference over other viable signal-callers because of his excellent running ability. Greene was Ohio State’s first African American quarterback. Griffin was another leading man on the team, and also in his second school year. The halfback led the Big Ten in 1973 with over 1,500 yards rushing. The offense line was anchored by Outland and Lombardi Trophy winner, John Hicks. Hicks went on to play for the Giants and the Steelers in the NFL after his success as the Buckeyes’ best lineman in school history. Kurt Schumacher teamed up with Hicks in the gifted tackling front line sporting scarlet and gray. Bruce Elia, the former Miami Dolphin and San Francisco 49er, hailed from New Jersey but excelled in Columbus in 1973. Elia was a junior fullback and solid contributor in the backfield as a converted linebacker. Freshman Johnson and second year wingback, Brian Baschnagel made up Ohio State’s inexperienced, young set of skill players. Both were extravagantly talented though, leaving the Bucks with very few weaknesses personnel-wise. Randy Gradishar was in the running for the Heismann and finished in the top six to end the season. Gradishar and Rick Middleton were unstoppable linebackers for Hayes’ defense, which embodied greatness at every level. Tackles Pete Cusick and Van Ness DeCree contributed at the line and the secondary shined with style. Steve Luke, Neal Colzie and Tim Fox were the defensive gems gaining attention in 1973 as the Buckeyes completed an undefeated year. The impenetrable unit allowed just two touchdowns in the first eight games in 1973, and pitted shutouts in Wisconsin and Illinois, and at home against Northwestern and Michigan State. The Bucks smashed Northwestern 60-0 that year and annihilated the Spartans, 35-0. The season began with an overpowering performance at home against the Golden Gophers of Minnesota. Ohio State won 56-7 in. The team would not allow more than seven points until the ninth game of the season. A winless Iowa team compiled 13 points in a second-rate effort, losing 55-13 at home.
The final game against Michigan was the most telling of the year for Ohio State. The challenge of playing against an undefeated Wolverines team foaming at the mouth for a Rose Bowl appearance was enormous. Bo Schembechler wanted tremendously to beat his mentor Hayes in the incredible rivalry game. Hayes’ decision to put the game in the hands of his defense backfired after the Buckeyes took the 10-0 advantage at the half. The conservative coach thought he could control the game but Michigan turned out to be in the driver’s seat once the second half began. The maize and blue out-gained Ohio State in yardage and stormed back to tie the game in the fourth quarter. Mike Lantry missed two field goals for Michigan in the waning seconds. The pair of missed opportunities preserved the deadlock and sent the matter into the Big 10 meeting room for further review.
The 1973 Ohio State team indeed was an impressive bunch of Buckeyes. Seven players were eventual first round draft picks in the NFL and three Buckeyes ranked in the top six for the Heisman race. Hicks came in second and Griffin and Gradishar finished fifth and sixth. Ohio State was the only Big 10 Rose Bowl winner in the entire decade of the 1970’s. It was perhaps Hayes’ finest moment as a head coach and one season that will be remembered forever.
Parting points: Song of the day- “It’s Alright”- 311
Page turner- “The Sun Also Rises”- Ernest Hemingway
The Buckeyes went on to the procedural Pasadena production, and toppled the USC Trojans 42-21 in the ‘74 Rose Bowl game. Ohio State rolled up 323 ground yards that New Years’ and got revenge against the previous year’s humiliating 42-17 crushing by John McKay’s squad. The emphatic victory was accomplished with touchdowns by burly back, Pete Johnson and an automated, Archie Griffin. Johnson scored three touchdowns and Griffin padded the score in the fourth quarter with his swift 47 yard burst. USC was spotted a 21-14 third quarter lead in the ‘74 bowl game before Ohio State’s offense exploded for 28 second-half points. The Bucks buried the horsemen for a cool celebration in Southern California on an early winter day.
Sophomore quarterback, Cornelius Greene, propelled Hayes’ offense in 1973 with his gun for an arm. The flashy Greene was Hayes’ preference over other viable signal-callers because of his excellent running ability. Greene was Ohio State’s first African American quarterback. Griffin was another leading man on the team, and also in his second school year. The halfback led the Big Ten in 1973 with over 1,500 yards rushing. The offense line was anchored by Outland and Lombardi Trophy winner, John Hicks. Hicks went on to play for the Giants and the Steelers in the NFL after his success as the Buckeyes’ best lineman in school history. Kurt Schumacher teamed up with Hicks in the gifted tackling front line sporting scarlet and gray. Bruce Elia, the former Miami Dolphin and San Francisco 49er, hailed from New Jersey but excelled in Columbus in 1973. Elia was a junior fullback and solid contributor in the backfield as a converted linebacker. Freshman Johnson and second year wingback, Brian Baschnagel made up Ohio State’s inexperienced, young set of skill players. Both were extravagantly talented though, leaving the Bucks with very few weaknesses personnel-wise. Randy Gradishar was in the running for the Heismann and finished in the top six to end the season. Gradishar and Rick Middleton were unstoppable linebackers for Hayes’ defense, which embodied greatness at every level. Tackles Pete Cusick and Van Ness DeCree contributed at the line and the secondary shined with style. Steve Luke, Neal Colzie and Tim Fox were the defensive gems gaining attention in 1973 as the Buckeyes completed an undefeated year. The impenetrable unit allowed just two touchdowns in the first eight games in 1973, and pitted shutouts in Wisconsin and Illinois, and at home against Northwestern and Michigan State. The Bucks smashed Northwestern 60-0 that year and annihilated the Spartans, 35-0. The season began with an overpowering performance at home against the Golden Gophers of Minnesota. Ohio State won 56-7 in. The team would not allow more than seven points until the ninth game of the season. A winless Iowa team compiled 13 points in a second-rate effort, losing 55-13 at home.
The final game against Michigan was the most telling of the year for Ohio State. The challenge of playing against an undefeated Wolverines team foaming at the mouth for a Rose Bowl appearance was enormous. Bo Schembechler wanted tremendously to beat his mentor Hayes in the incredible rivalry game. Hayes’ decision to put the game in the hands of his defense backfired after the Buckeyes took the 10-0 advantage at the half. The conservative coach thought he could control the game but Michigan turned out to be in the driver’s seat once the second half began. The maize and blue out-gained Ohio State in yardage and stormed back to tie the game in the fourth quarter. Mike Lantry missed two field goals for Michigan in the waning seconds. The pair of missed opportunities preserved the deadlock and sent the matter into the Big 10 meeting room for further review.
The 1973 Ohio State team indeed was an impressive bunch of Buckeyes. Seven players were eventual first round draft picks in the NFL and three Buckeyes ranked in the top six for the Heisman race. Hicks came in second and Griffin and Gradishar finished fifth and sixth. Ohio State was the only Big 10 Rose Bowl winner in the entire decade of the 1970’s. It was perhaps Hayes’ finest moment as a head coach and one season that will be remembered forever.
Parting points: Song of the day- “It’s Alright”- 311
Page turner- “The Sun Also Rises”- Ernest Hemingway
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Commits, Comebacks, Crushings & Contracts
C.J. and Xavier Henry are committing to Kansas basketball. The highly recruited brothers will play for Bill Self’s Jayhawks after deciding not to attend a John Calipari-less Memphis Tigers team. The dynamic dribbling duo was considering playing for Calipari at his new school, Kentucky, but confirmed they will instead wear Kansas digs in 2009.
The Baltimore Orioles staged the biggest comeback in their history by embarrassing the Boston Red Sox last night. The O’s won 11-10 Tuesday after staging a nine-run comeback. The rally began in the 7th inning at Camden Yards. The shocking come-from-behind scoring came against a Boston team that had demoralized Baltimore eight straight times, including five this year. The Red Sox figured the lead was insurmountable as they took the field in the bottom half of the 7th. Baltimore used seven hits in the frame, topped by a three run bomb by pinch-hitting Oscar Salazar. The Orioles rattled the electrifying and overpowering Boston bullpen. Jonathan Papelbon entered in the 8th inning to preserve the four run lead and pick up the save. He failed in doing both when Nick Markakis delivered a two run double off the right-handed Boston reliever. The lucky lob to left was Markakis’ first hit off Papelbon in his last eight at-bats. Nick struck out four times this year when facing Papelbon, but stroked the shot to complete the courageous comeback. Dumfounded Red Sox pitcher, John Smoltz, hoped to snare a win in just his second start in Boston. A rain delay ruined the chance for the aging hurler. Smoltz left the game with a 9-1 lead in the fifth after a justifiable performance. He allowed three hits and one Baltimore run, while striking out two of the fifteen he faced. Kevin Youkilis, the leading All-Star first baseman in fan votes, clubbed his 13th homerun of the season, and Jacoby Ellsbury also went long for Boston. None of it mattered because the hapless O’s stunningly manufactured runs and recorded their greatest comeback since 1956.
Yao that hurts! Yes, Ming might miss the entire NBA season next year, and his injury could crush his career. The Houston Rockets took a hit when the news of #11 came down Monday. The proud franchise may have to make some changes if their Chinese sensation is sidelined for any extensive time. A slew of reports indicate Ming’s fractured foot might even be career-threatening. That certainly would crush the Rockets, and the hearts of basketball fans worldwide. If doctors decide Yao can no longer pay, it will be sad to see him retire early in his impressive career.
Defenseman Johnny Oduya re-signed with the New Jersey Devils. The 27 year old, third year player, came to terms with the team on a new contract. Last season, Oduya scored career highs in goals and assits, with 7 and 22 respectfully. It’s nice to know the Devils are trying to keep their defensive gems in tact. Oduya will factor into the 2009 campaign I am sure and it was wise for Lou Lamoriello to re-up the rising star before he entered free agency today. The Devils qualify as one of the better organizations when it comes to acquiring the right players. They are not as rich or classy as the Rangers, but the Devils always build a quality team in New Jersey. Speaking of the Blueshirts, they shipped Scott Gomez to Montreal and acquired winger, Chris Higgins, among other players. The Habs’ number one and 14th overall pick in 2002, is a Yale graduate who will provide scoring opportunities for the Rangers. The two-time Stanley Cup winner with the Devils, center Gomez, commanded a big contract I am sure New York was only too happy to unload.
Parting points: The Yankees signed Eric Hinske yesterday. He is familiar with the AL East, but I am not sure how the addition makes the team that much better. Hinske will play third base when A-Rod sits but that means the Bombers are a bench player short in the utility department. The versatile Hinske will add power about as equal to that we would have seen from Xavier Nady. He’s a versatile player who has flown under the radar during his major league career.
I am very disappointed Leyton Hewitt lost to Andy Roddick at Wimbledon this afternoon.
The Baltimore Orioles staged the biggest comeback in their history by embarrassing the Boston Red Sox last night. The O’s won 11-10 Tuesday after staging a nine-run comeback. The rally began in the 7th inning at Camden Yards. The shocking come-from-behind scoring came against a Boston team that had demoralized Baltimore eight straight times, including five this year. The Red Sox figured the lead was insurmountable as they took the field in the bottom half of the 7th. Baltimore used seven hits in the frame, topped by a three run bomb by pinch-hitting Oscar Salazar. The Orioles rattled the electrifying and overpowering Boston bullpen. Jonathan Papelbon entered in the 8th inning to preserve the four run lead and pick up the save. He failed in doing both when Nick Markakis delivered a two run double off the right-handed Boston reliever. The lucky lob to left was Markakis’ first hit off Papelbon in his last eight at-bats. Nick struck out four times this year when facing Papelbon, but stroked the shot to complete the courageous comeback. Dumfounded Red Sox pitcher, John Smoltz, hoped to snare a win in just his second start in Boston. A rain delay ruined the chance for the aging hurler. Smoltz left the game with a 9-1 lead in the fifth after a justifiable performance. He allowed three hits and one Baltimore run, while striking out two of the fifteen he faced. Kevin Youkilis, the leading All-Star first baseman in fan votes, clubbed his 13th homerun of the season, and Jacoby Ellsbury also went long for Boston. None of it mattered because the hapless O’s stunningly manufactured runs and recorded their greatest comeback since 1956.
Yao that hurts! Yes, Ming might miss the entire NBA season next year, and his injury could crush his career. The Houston Rockets took a hit when the news of #11 came down Monday. The proud franchise may have to make some changes if their Chinese sensation is sidelined for any extensive time. A slew of reports indicate Ming’s fractured foot might even be career-threatening. That certainly would crush the Rockets, and the hearts of basketball fans worldwide. If doctors decide Yao can no longer pay, it will be sad to see him retire early in his impressive career.
Defenseman Johnny Oduya re-signed with the New Jersey Devils. The 27 year old, third year player, came to terms with the team on a new contract. Last season, Oduya scored career highs in goals and assits, with 7 and 22 respectfully. It’s nice to know the Devils are trying to keep their defensive gems in tact. Oduya will factor into the 2009 campaign I am sure and it was wise for Lou Lamoriello to re-up the rising star before he entered free agency today. The Devils qualify as one of the better organizations when it comes to acquiring the right players. They are not as rich or classy as the Rangers, but the Devils always build a quality team in New Jersey. Speaking of the Blueshirts, they shipped Scott Gomez to Montreal and acquired winger, Chris Higgins, among other players. The Habs’ number one and 14th overall pick in 2002, is a Yale graduate who will provide scoring opportunities for the Rangers. The two-time Stanley Cup winner with the Devils, center Gomez, commanded a big contract I am sure New York was only too happy to unload.
Parting points: The Yankees signed Eric Hinske yesterday. He is familiar with the AL East, but I am not sure how the addition makes the team that much better. Hinske will play third base when A-Rod sits but that means the Bombers are a bench player short in the utility department. The versatile Hinske will add power about as equal to that we would have seen from Xavier Nady. He’s a versatile player who has flown under the radar during his major league career.
I am very disappointed Leyton Hewitt lost to Andy Roddick at Wimbledon this afternoon.
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