Sometimes after a deal is done in baseball, it's real obvious why. Other times, you are left just hoping your team knows something that you don't. I know Milledge's value does not appear to be what it once was, but trading him for a 29-year old mediocre OF and a catcher who can't hit a lick?
I can only hope of one of two things:
1) As Cerrone from Metsblog suggested, it's plausible that the A's, Twins and Orioles would prefer Church in a deal, and the Mets have continually insisted that landing a front-line starter is their #1 goal
2) Milledge will be named in the Mitchell Report
Outside of these two possibilities, I have no explanation for this trade. Omar if you're reading, feel free to explain.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Fire I-zay-ah!
Just when you think nothing can get worse for the New York Knickerbockers, it always seems to happen anyway. In the Pre-Henrik Lundquist era, I thought the Rangers were the worst run franchise in professional sports. Now that they have found a star goalie and have returned to respectability, their MSG counterparts own that distinction.
Isiah Thomas has done a remarkable job; he took a bad team, and turned them into a complete catastrophe. His theory of 'lets bring as many overpaid, shoot first guards and throw them on one team' has managed to turn the Knicks into the laughing stock of the league. If that wasn't enough, he lost complete respect of all his player with his off the court discretions (sexual harassment) and personal vendetta with Marbury. This team needs a complete makeover in the worst way. Keep the young kids like Lee, Balkman, Randolph and Nate Robinson, fire the coach/GM and bring in completely new personnel. This is the only way to restore respectability, and it's not like they'll win games in the short run either way. The Dolan-Thomas-Thomas trio has to rank amongst the worst Owner-GM-Coach trios in professional sports history. I'd like to take 2 friends and a few players from the Wash U basketball team and give it a go. Hey, it can't be much worse...
Isiah Thomas has done a remarkable job; he took a bad team, and turned them into a complete catastrophe. His theory of 'lets bring as many overpaid, shoot first guards and throw them on one team' has managed to turn the Knicks into the laughing stock of the league. If that wasn't enough, he lost complete respect of all his player with his off the court discretions (sexual harassment) and personal vendetta with Marbury. This team needs a complete makeover in the worst way. Keep the young kids like Lee, Balkman, Randolph and Nate Robinson, fire the coach/GM and bring in completely new personnel. This is the only way to restore respectability, and it's not like they'll win games in the short run either way. The Dolan-Thomas-Thomas trio has to rank amongst the worst Owner-GM-Coach trios in professional sports history. I'd like to take 2 friends and a few players from the Wash U basketball team and give it a go. Hey, it can't be much worse...
Thursday, November 29, 2007
So long Jose?
According to the New York Daily News, there's "speculation in MLB circles" that the Mets are considering parting with Jose Reyes in a potential trade for Johan Santana.
This, I am not OK with. As badly as the Mets need an ace, you absolutely cannot trade a 24-year old star shortstop in his prime. Reyes changes the game, and brings an electricity to the team you can't measure with statistics. He manufactures so many runs with his speed from stealing bases to inducing balks. The Mets have control of him for 3 more years at an absolute steal of around $6 million (less than he would likely have received in arbitration). Dealing Reyes would be a monumental error, and I hope this "speculation" is just that.
This, I am not OK with. As badly as the Mets need an ace, you absolutely cannot trade a 24-year old star shortstop in his prime. Reyes changes the game, and brings an electricity to the team you can't measure with statistics. He manufactures so many runs with his speed from stealing bases to inducing balks. The Mets have control of him for 3 more years at an absolute steal of around $6 million (less than he would likely have received in arbitration). Dealing Reyes would be a monumental error, and I hope this "speculation" is just that.
On a personal note..
I've been asked to write about something other than sports, so here's a quick personal post.
1) Today I won the 2007 Intramural Arm Wrestling Championship for the 136-150 lbs weight class. Why is this notable? Because it's actually important enough to my life to report. Granted I only had to beat 2 people to get there (I had a bye to the semifinals based on my semifinal appearance last year) but it's an accomplishment nonetheless. Boy I need another hobby. Seen any good movies lately?
2) Today I also randomly ran into someone I met on an cruise 3 years ago. It's quite amazing how the random things in your life never seem to go away, yet the things to wish to keep around fade away oh so quietly. For those interested: Jake dropped out of school, quit his job and is now playing in a band called 'Dead City Dregs'.
3) Can someone find a bar for me where you don't come back wreaking of smoke? This is becoming a major deterrent to going out, and it's quite frustrating. Who would have ever thought that I would be longing for New Jersey (where smoking in bars is illegal)?? Yes, our governors may be gay, and yes, they pay off young girls to keep their mouths shut, but at least our bars are free of smoke!
1) Today I won the 2007 Intramural Arm Wrestling Championship for the 136-150 lbs weight class. Why is this notable? Because it's actually important enough to my life to report. Granted I only had to beat 2 people to get there (I had a bye to the semifinals based on my semifinal appearance last year) but it's an accomplishment nonetheless. Boy I need another hobby. Seen any good movies lately?
2) Today I also randomly ran into someone I met on an cruise 3 years ago. It's quite amazing how the random things in your life never seem to go away, yet the things to wish to keep around fade away oh so quietly. For those interested: Jake dropped out of school, quit his job and is now playing in a band called 'Dead City Dregs'.
3) Can someone find a bar for me where you don't come back wreaking of smoke? This is becoming a major deterrent to going out, and it's quite frustrating. Who would have ever thought that I would be longing for New Jersey (where smoking in bars is illegal)?? Yes, our governors may be gay, and yes, they pay off young girls to keep their mouths shut, but at least our bars are free of smoke!
Odds and Ends
My apologies for the lack of updates, the few assignments I have left were calling my name. A few updates in the world sports:
1) Terrible tragedy regarding Sean Taylor. For some reason, I always liked Taylor. No one will claim he was the most moral guy, or the most upstanding citizen, but he loved football and had great passion for the game. As a VT fan, I remember watching him since college, and this guy struck fear in your heart as an opposing fan. He was a great athlete and a great player, and I am sad to see him go. The more I read, the more I learn about how he was progressing not only as a solid defensive stud in the NFL, but as a human being as well. I think he would have done great things in this league, and the NFL was robbed of a true star. RIP Sean.
2) Pardon my bias, but the Magic are really, really good. They aren't the deepest in the league, but something about their makeup works. A dominant center, a pure scorer, a true point guard, a scrappy 2-guard and a shot-making, role-playing, hard-nosed 3 in Hedo Turkoglu. The combo of Howard, Lewis, Nelson, Bogans and Turkoglu seems to me be working wonders. Throw in a decent bench of Foyle, Arroyo, Redick, Battie, and Garrity, and you have the makings of an Eastern Conference contender. If this Magic team can stay healthy, they will be a major factor in the Eastern Conference, ans have already proven they can play with, and beat, the Celtics.
3) I really can't understand the logic of the Delmon Young for Matt Garza deal. Both are teams that are trying to compete in the short run, as neither will be able to sign either player once the arbitration years end. The Twins will lose Santana, and Carlos Silva, and will need a guy like Garza to front end their rotation. The Rays, more than anything, need to put asses in the seats, and I guarantee you no one in the great state of Florida has the slightest clue who Matt Garza is. Delmon Young, although a controversial figure, is an intriguing player, and one who many would pay to see. I can't see why either team would be motivated to make this deal, but would gladly take either young player in Queens.
4) The college coaching carousel is getting interesting. Houston Nutt has taken the Mississippi job (not surprising) and ex-Packer failure Mike Sherman has accepted the Texas A&M job. The Nebraska slot and the Michigan opening remain the most notable jobs, and most fascinating to follow. If I were to bet on it, I think Les Miles will end up in Ann Arbor, especially after LSU's title chances went down the tubes (and even more so when LSU loses to Tennessee...trust me).
5) Don't look now, but the Devils have won 5 straight. Amazing what happens when one of your top defensive players and veteran scorers/assistant captains return from injury. Magically, Brodeur can play goalie again. Don't be surprised if the Devils find themselves perched atop the Atlantic Division by the time March rolls around, however Detroit and Ottawa remain the class of the league.
1) Terrible tragedy regarding Sean Taylor. For some reason, I always liked Taylor. No one will claim he was the most moral guy, or the most upstanding citizen, but he loved football and had great passion for the game. As a VT fan, I remember watching him since college, and this guy struck fear in your heart as an opposing fan. He was a great athlete and a great player, and I am sad to see him go. The more I read, the more I learn about how he was progressing not only as a solid defensive stud in the NFL, but as a human being as well. I think he would have done great things in this league, and the NFL was robbed of a true star. RIP Sean.
2) Pardon my bias, but the Magic are really, really good. They aren't the deepest in the league, but something about their makeup works. A dominant center, a pure scorer, a true point guard, a scrappy 2-guard and a shot-making, role-playing, hard-nosed 3 in Hedo Turkoglu. The combo of Howard, Lewis, Nelson, Bogans and Turkoglu seems to me be working wonders. Throw in a decent bench of Foyle, Arroyo, Redick, Battie, and Garrity, and you have the makings of an Eastern Conference contender. If this Magic team can stay healthy, they will be a major factor in the Eastern Conference, ans have already proven they can play with, and beat, the Celtics.
3) I really can't understand the logic of the Delmon Young for Matt Garza deal. Both are teams that are trying to compete in the short run, as neither will be able to sign either player once the arbitration years end. The Twins will lose Santana, and Carlos Silva, and will need a guy like Garza to front end their rotation. The Rays, more than anything, need to put asses in the seats, and I guarantee you no one in the great state of Florida has the slightest clue who Matt Garza is. Delmon Young, although a controversial figure, is an intriguing player, and one who many would pay to see. I can't see why either team would be motivated to make this deal, but would gladly take either young player in Queens.
4) The college coaching carousel is getting interesting. Houston Nutt has taken the Mississippi job (not surprising) and ex-Packer failure Mike Sherman has accepted the Texas A&M job. The Nebraska slot and the Michigan opening remain the most notable jobs, and most fascinating to follow. If I were to bet on it, I think Les Miles will end up in Ann Arbor, especially after LSU's title chances went down the tubes (and even more so when LSU loses to Tennessee...trust me).
5) Don't look now, but the Devils have won 5 straight. Amazing what happens when one of your top defensive players and veteran scorers/assistant captains return from injury. Magically, Brodeur can play goalie again. Don't be surprised if the Devils find themselves perched atop the Atlantic Division by the time March rolls around, however Detroit and Ottawa remain the class of the league.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Ocean's Eleven
I have never, ever seen a football game quite like the one I witnessed tonight. The kicking game seemed to be completely useless, open field running was impossible, and punts literally plugged into the ground (perhaps the craziest thing about tonight.) Nevertheless, as the Patriots proves a great team always finds a way to win, the Dolphins proved a bad team always finds a way to lose. What a shame too, because the Dolphins played their hearts out. John Beck showed a lot of moxy and made several excellent throws, while avoiding mistakes in a mistake prone environment. The defense came up big on their end of the field on several occasions, keeping the game close until the end. As I have said for weeks, the Dolphins really are not as bad as their 0-11 record would indicate. They're bad, but when you lose 6 games by 3 points or less, a few of which came down to game winning field goals in the final seconds, you are clearly capable of playing competitive football. The defense has improved by leaps and bounds as the season has progressed, but the offense just can't seem to get a break. This season thus far, the Dolphins have lost their starting QB, starting RB, and seen their #1 WR traded away. Then tonight, they lose both Ricky Williams AND Jesse Chatman, and must make ends meat with Patrick Cobbs, who had 0 NFL carries coming into the year. This team just can't catch a break, and seems destined for the #1 pick.
Comments
My loyal reader(s):
Feel free to post comments on any post. The comments link is in the bottom right hand corner of each post.
Feel free to post comments on any post. The comments link is in the bottom right hand corner of each post.
Santana to the Bronx?
According to ESPN.com, the Twins and Yankees are having preliminary discussions about a deal that would bring ace left-hander Johan Santana to the Bronx. I would expect that at least one big pitching prospect (Joba Chamberlain, Philip Hughes or Ian Kennedy), one position player (Cano or Cabrera) and another prospect. The Yankees have to be the favorites for two reasons. 1) That package of prospects will be as good as any offered, and 2) The Yankees can afford to sign Santana to a 7 year extension, a demand of Santana in order for him to waive his no trade clause.
As a Mets fan, I can only hope that the Yankees refuse to deal Chamberlain or Hughes and that thew Twins demand one of them be included. The Mets simply do not have the young talent to compete with the Yankees in this area, however I believe the Mets are willing to move anyone outside of Reyes and Wright, and this could be their only saving grace.
As a Mets fan, I can only hope that the Yankees refuse to deal Chamberlain or Hughes and that thew Twins demand one of them be included. The Mets simply do not have the young talent to compete with the Yankees in this area, however I believe the Mets are willing to move anyone outside of Reyes and Wright, and this could be their only saving grace.
How the Mighty have (Almost) Fallen
Leave it to Belichick to find a new way to wreak havoc over the Patriot Hater Nation. Beating teams by 40 points? Been there, done that. Running up the score? Old News. The Sweatshirt came up with a new idea: Let's take a game in which we're favored by 20+ points at home, and the opposing team has their backup QB starting (a guy who couldn't hack it for the team that's currently 0-10 mind you), and let them make a game of it. Let's give all the cheater haters false hope that we're beatable, and then flip the switch late in the 4th on the way to 11-0.
As president of the "I Despise the Patriots" fan club, this one hurt. Especially because even after the inevitable Patriots go-ahead TD to make it 31-28, the Eagles went right down the field with little resistance from the Pats D. With the ball inside the 30, the Eagles simply needed to run clock for either a game tying field goal or the TD for the win. Instead, they took a foolish chance in the end zone, and an awful A.J. Feeley pass ended up in the hands of Asante Samuel.
You have to give credit where credit is due, in that for the 2nd time this season, the Pats did not play well and yet found a way to win, a sign of a truly great team. But the fact that a McNabbless Eagles gave them a game ensures the following, although the Pats are great, they ARE beatable.
However, it's starting to get to crunch time and the '72 fins bubbly remains unopened. The question remains who can knock them off, and it would seem the Giants, at home, in week 17 present the biggest challenge. But after a 4 INT performance from Eli Manning and a 41-17 home drubbing to the Vikings, it may be time to accept the fact that the Pats aren't going to lose.
As president of the "I Despise the Patriots" fan club, this one hurt. Especially because even after the inevitable Patriots go-ahead TD to make it 31-28, the Eagles went right down the field with little resistance from the Pats D. With the ball inside the 30, the Eagles simply needed to run clock for either a game tying field goal or the TD for the win. Instead, they took a foolish chance in the end zone, and an awful A.J. Feeley pass ended up in the hands of Asante Samuel.
You have to give credit where credit is due, in that for the 2nd time this season, the Pats did not play well and yet found a way to win, a sign of a truly great team. But the fact that a McNabbless Eagles gave them a game ensures the following, although the Pats are great, they ARE beatable.
However, it's starting to get to crunch time and the '72 fins bubbly remains unopened. The question remains who can knock them off, and it would seem the Giants, at home, in week 17 present the biggest challenge. But after a 4 INT performance from Eli Manning and a 41-17 home drubbing to the Vikings, it may be time to accept the fact that the Pats aren't going to lose.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Long live the King
It's always talked about how sports are about the team, and not the individual. Generally, of course, this is true, but I find it increasingly hard to accept as concrete fact when wacthing the Cleveland Cavaliers. It's unbelievable how much that team depends on LeBron James. He's currently averaging 30.9 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 7.7 assists, and leads the team in points, rebounds, steals and blocks. It's rare that a player who carried the type of hype that LeBron did ever quite lives up to, but this guy has done it. I continue to marvel as his greatness, and firmly believe he is hands down the best player on the planet.
The picture gets a little clearer
So my scenario didn't quite work out as planned, but Virginia Tech did take care of business with a 33-21 win in Charlottesville for the ACC Coastal title. The Hokie offense looked great, as their offense moved the ball as well as they have all season. It was a little disconcerting to see 4 drives stall in the red zone, but Branden Ore showed flashes of why he was first-team all ACC last year, and the two-headed quarterback system worked perfectly. I really was not in favor of the Spurrier-esque plan, but the change of pace between Glennon's pocket presence and Taylor's athleticism really throws off opposing defenses, as the Hokie offense has scored at least 33 points in their last 3 games. The defense gave up a few big plays, but their speed makes it so difficult to sustain a long drive. Next week's match-up against BC in the ACC Championship game is particularly intriguing as Tech looks to avenge its heartbreaking loss to the Eagles from earlier in the season. I'm very optimistic about this game, as Tech's offense is light years better now than it was a month ago, and Vince Hall and Tyrod Taylor will both play this time. The winner likely gets the Orange Bowl, facing one of the at large teams.
After West Virginia manhandled UConn, dropping 66 points on a supposedly tough defense, it appears as if they are headed to New Orleans for a chance in the title game. They still need to get past a weak Pitt team in backyard brawl, but it would appear they control their own destiny at the moment. I still think they're defense is weak and a team with a few quick linebackers, like the pair in Blacksburg, could neutralize the shifty backfield of White, Slaton and Devine. Nevertheless, you can only beat who's on your schedule, and the Mountaineers earned lots of style points tonight.
The national picture seems clear now, as it appears only 4 teams are realistically still alive.
Missouri now has the inside track to New Orleans, and likely the #1 seed tomorrow morning. I was extremely impressed with Missouri tonight. Its tough to tell how good Kansas actually is, but Missou played such solid football on both sides of the ball for 3 quarters. They did let the Jayhawks back into the game in the 4th, a sign of a team inexperienced in big games, but managed to put the game away with a safety to seal the deal for a 36-28 win.
Assuming the Tigers beat Oklahoma next week in the Big XII title game, they are a lock for a spot in the title game. West Virginia gets in with a win over Pittsburgh, but would be out should they be the next fall victim to the curse of #2. Ohio State is next in line, and would sneak into the title game with either a Missouri loss next week, or a West Virginia loss.
In the unlikely event that West Virginia and Missouri lose next week, your guess is as good as mine as to who Ohio State would play. Georgia, Virginia Tech, LSU, Oklahoma, Kansas, and even Hawaii could be possibilities.
Here's my top 10 and bowl projections after this weeks action:
1. Missouri
2. West Virginia
3. Ohio State
4. LSU
5. Virginia Tech
6. Georgia
7. USC
8. Kansas
9. Oklahoma
10. Hawaii
National Championship: Missouri v West Virginia
Orange Bowl: Virginia Tech vs Georgia
Sugar Bowl: LSU vs Hawaii
Rose Bowl: Ohio State vs USC
Fiesta Bowl: Arizona State vs Kansas
After West Virginia manhandled UConn, dropping 66 points on a supposedly tough defense, it appears as if they are headed to New Orleans for a chance in the title game. They still need to get past a weak Pitt team in backyard brawl, but it would appear they control their own destiny at the moment. I still think they're defense is weak and a team with a few quick linebackers, like the pair in Blacksburg, could neutralize the shifty backfield of White, Slaton and Devine. Nevertheless, you can only beat who's on your schedule, and the Mountaineers earned lots of style points tonight.
The national picture seems clear now, as it appears only 4 teams are realistically still alive.
Missouri now has the inside track to New Orleans, and likely the #1 seed tomorrow morning. I was extremely impressed with Missouri tonight. Its tough to tell how good Kansas actually is, but Missou played such solid football on both sides of the ball for 3 quarters. They did let the Jayhawks back into the game in the 4th, a sign of a team inexperienced in big games, but managed to put the game away with a safety to seal the deal for a 36-28 win.
Assuming the Tigers beat Oklahoma next week in the Big XII title game, they are a lock for a spot in the title game. West Virginia gets in with a win over Pittsburgh, but would be out should they be the next fall victim to the curse of #2. Ohio State is next in line, and would sneak into the title game with either a Missouri loss next week, or a West Virginia loss.
In the unlikely event that West Virginia and Missouri lose next week, your guess is as good as mine as to who Ohio State would play. Georgia, Virginia Tech, LSU, Oklahoma, Kansas, and even Hawaii could be possibilities.
Here's my top 10 and bowl projections after this weeks action:
1. Missouri
2. West Virginia
3. Ohio State
4. LSU
5. Virginia Tech
6. Georgia
7. USC
8. Kansas
9. Oklahoma
10. Hawaii
National Championship: Missouri v West Virginia
Orange Bowl: Virginia Tech vs Georgia
Sugar Bowl: LSU vs Hawaii
Rose Bowl: Ohio State vs USC
Fiesta Bowl: Arizona State vs Kansas
Friday, November 23, 2007
Another #1 bites the dust
Unbelievable.
The BCS picture was seemingly set. LSU vs the winner of tomorrow's Missouri/Kansas game. Now, several teams just jumped back into the mix. LSU had been living on the edge week after week, and it finally caught up to them. A great game, but you have to be a little disappointed in LSU's defense, especially in the red zone. They are all but eliminated from National title contention, and don't be shocked if Les Miles to Michigan rumors intensify after this loss.
While on the topic of head coaches, I had been curious why Arkansas head coach Houston Nutt was on the hot seat (rumor has it the school has all but signed his walking papers). It's hard to knock a coach who just upset the #1 team on the road with an unbeaten squad, but I think I see why the folks in Fayetteville are unhappy. After LSU tied it at 28-28, the Razorbacks took the ensuing kickoff to the 47 yard line with 50 seconds left and 1 timeout. They proceeded to run the ball three times, and let the clock run down to 9 seconds, calling a timeout on 4th and 1. They pick this opportunity to finally put the ball in the air, leading to Coby Dick throwing the ball 10 yards out of bounds. Horrendous clock management, which if LSU could play any red zone defense, would have cost Arkansas the upset.
(So far my VT-OSU National Title game scenario is 2 for 2. Here's rooting for the Hokies, Huskies, and Yellow Jackets tomorrow)
The BCS picture was seemingly set. LSU vs the winner of tomorrow's Missouri/Kansas game. Now, several teams just jumped back into the mix. LSU had been living on the edge week after week, and it finally caught up to them. A great game, but you have to be a little disappointed in LSU's defense, especially in the red zone. They are all but eliminated from National title contention, and don't be shocked if Les Miles to Michigan rumors intensify after this loss.
While on the topic of head coaches, I had been curious why Arkansas head coach Houston Nutt was on the hot seat (rumor has it the school has all but signed his walking papers). It's hard to knock a coach who just upset the #1 team on the road with an unbeaten squad, but I think I see why the folks in Fayetteville are unhappy. After LSU tied it at 28-28, the Razorbacks took the ensuing kickoff to the 47 yard line with 50 seconds left and 1 timeout. They proceeded to run the ball three times, and let the clock run down to 9 seconds, calling a timeout on 4th and 1. They pick this opportunity to finally put the ball in the air, leading to Coby Dick throwing the ball 10 yards out of bounds. Horrendous clock management, which if LSU could play any red zone defense, would have cost Arkansas the upset.
(So far my VT-OSU National Title game scenario is 2 for 2. Here's rooting for the Hokies, Huskies, and Yellow Jackets tomorrow)
Fransisco Cordero to the Reds
4 years, $46 million, the largest deal in MLB history for a reliever. And for Fransisco Cordero. Not to sound like a broken record but, it must be some market out there...
Torii Hunter to the Angels
5 years, 90 million for Torii Hunter. A couple of things stand out here:
1) Hunter is now making more than teammate Vladimir Guerrero.
2) $18 million per annum for a career .271 hitter, with one 30 HR season, and 2 100 RBI seasons? Once again, it must be some market out there.
3) I'm curious how the departure of Hunter will affect the Santana situation. Although it was seemingly a foregone conclusion that Hunter would not re-sign, this has two potential impacts on the Santana sweepstakes. 1) It could free up some money to increase the currently rumored 5 yr, $93 million offer, 2) The loss of Hunter could further prove to Santana that this will never truly be a contending team, and he can't win in Minnesota. Personally, I think there's little chance Johan stays in Minnesota, and I think he'll be dealt before Spring Training.
1) Hunter is now making more than teammate Vladimir Guerrero.
2) $18 million per annum for a career .271 hitter, with one 30 HR season, and 2 100 RBI seasons? Once again, it must be some market out there.
3) I'm curious how the departure of Hunter will affect the Santana situation. Although it was seemingly a foregone conclusion that Hunter would not re-sign, this has two potential impacts on the Santana sweepstakes. 1) It could free up some money to increase the currently rumored 5 yr, $93 million offer, 2) The loss of Hunter could further prove to Santana that this will never truly be a contending team, and he can't win in Minnesota. Personally, I think there's little chance Johan stays in Minnesota, and I think he'll be dealt before Spring Training.
Thanksgiving Football
A few notes on yesterday's action:
1) USC is a completely different team with a healthy John David Booty. The Pac-10 got slaughtered by injuries this year, as I think Oregon and USC are two of the nation's best teams, but neither were quite the same without their signal caller. An Oregon loss to UCLA seems likely with Brady Leaf at the helm, which sends USC to the Rose Bowl. Watch out OSU.
2) The Cowboys and Packers are really good. I loved the dynamic of Favre in the early game, Romo in the afternoon, and Manning in the nightcap. Kind of a past, future, present type of thing. It's a shame the Patriots are so good, because their dominance is going to overshadow the fact that there are some really great stories in the NFL this year. The Packers 10-1 start is their best since 1962, and considering its an extremely young team with a QB who nearly retired, incredible.
3) Michael Vick really screwed up the Falcons. That offense just doesn't function without him. It's not really a knock on Leftwich or Harrington, but more that everything the Falcons did in the off-season was made to complement Vick. Petrino was brought in for his offense system, which needs a guy like Vick to work. Don't be shocked if Petrino's name get thrown into the ring for major college jobs (Nebraska, Michigan, etc) as I think he'll hop the first plane out of there if possible.
1) USC is a completely different team with a healthy John David Booty. The Pac-10 got slaughtered by injuries this year, as I think Oregon and USC are two of the nation's best teams, but neither were quite the same without their signal caller. An Oregon loss to UCLA seems likely with Brady Leaf at the helm, which sends USC to the Rose Bowl. Watch out OSU.
2) The Cowboys and Packers are really good. I loved the dynamic of Favre in the early game, Romo in the afternoon, and Manning in the nightcap. Kind of a past, future, present type of thing. It's a shame the Patriots are so good, because their dominance is going to overshadow the fact that there are some really great stories in the NFL this year. The Packers 10-1 start is their best since 1962, and considering its an extremely young team with a QB who nearly retired, incredible.
3) Michael Vick really screwed up the Falcons. That offense just doesn't function without him. It's not really a knock on Leftwich or Harrington, but more that everything the Falcons did in the off-season was made to complement Vick. Petrino was brought in for his offense system, which needs a guy like Vick to work. Don't be shocked if Petrino's name get thrown into the ring for major college jobs (Nebraska, Michigan, etc) as I think he'll hop the first plane out of there if possible.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
BCS
As much as I hate the BCS, it really does give college football fans so much to talk about. For those of you who are BCS challenged, consider the current situation. The standings are as follows:
1) LSU
2) Kansas
3) West Virginia
4) Missouri
5) Ohio State
6) Arizona State
7) Georgia
8) Virginia Tech
9) Oregon
10) Oklahoma
This coming weekend#2 Kansas plays #4 Missouri (for the Big XII North championship), #1 LSU hosts Arkansas, #3 West Virginia plays #20 UConn (winner gets the Big East crown), #6 Arizona State plays #11 USC (winner likely wins the Pac-10), #7 Georgia faces state rival Georgia Tech and #8 Virginia Tech travels to #16 Virginia (ACC Coastal title at stake). Also a fun matchup, #19 Boise State heads to #15 Hawaii to face the unbeaten Warriors. What an amazing weekend in college football. Go Tech.
Here's my winning scenario. Arizona State has already lost to USC, LSU falls to Arkansas this weekend, and then again in the SEC Championship game, amidst Les Miles to Michigan rumors. Missouri beats Kansas, then falls to Oklahoma, again, in the Big XII Championship game. UConn shocks West Virginia on the road, and Georgia Tech knocks off UGA. The result, Ohio State vs Virginia Tech in the National Championship. You heard it here first.
1) LSU
2) Kansas
3) West Virginia
4) Missouri
5) Ohio State
6) Arizona State
7) Georgia
8) Virginia Tech
9) Oregon
10) Oklahoma
This coming weekend#2 Kansas plays #4 Missouri (for the Big XII North championship), #1 LSU hosts Arkansas, #3 West Virginia plays #20 UConn (winner gets the Big East crown), #6 Arizona State plays #11 USC (winner likely wins the Pac-10), #7 Georgia faces state rival Georgia Tech and #8 Virginia Tech travels to #16 Virginia (ACC Coastal title at stake). Also a fun matchup, #19 Boise State heads to #15 Hawaii to face the unbeaten Warriors. What an amazing weekend in college football. Go Tech.
Here's my winning scenario. Arizona State has already lost to USC, LSU falls to Arkansas this weekend, and then again in the SEC Championship game, amidst Les Miles to Michigan rumors. Missouri beats Kansas, then falls to Oklahoma, again, in the Big XII Championship game. UConn shocks West Virginia on the road, and Georgia Tech knocks off UGA. The result, Ohio State vs Virginia Tech in the National Championship. You heard it here first.
Mets offseason
Starting off with the bread and butter, here are/were my offseason goals for the Mets, updated with current progress.
1) Bring in an ace starting pitcher, no matter the cost (The stove is very hot..)
Honestly, at this point, every single deal I have heard for Santana that doesn't include Reyes sounds good to me. There is so little out there, that I can see myself rationalizing a deal along the lines of Pelfrey, Humber, Milledge, Gomez, Fernando Martinez and Deolis Guerra for Santana. It's sad, but I really don't have tremendous faith that any of these guys will develop into great players, and I want to see Santana in orange and blue in the worst way. Tell me you care who is in right field next year if Santana takes the mound on opening day for the next 8 years...
2) Upgrade the bullpen ( ??????)
Well the Mets off-season is underway for 53 days now, and I feel like I have made as much effort to upgrade the bullpen, well unless you consider addition by subtraction, which will be discussed in #3. However, how can this not be priority #1. This was so clearly the cause of the meltdown, and I feel like its not being addressed. Yes, Padilla and Sanchez are due to come back healthy, but they need to be treated as pleasant surprised if they're healthy, not be counted on. Get on it Omar..
3) Get rid of Guillermo Mota under any circumstance (Check plus)
Unbelievable, I would have been willing to pay a team to take him AND pay his salary, and somehow we got a team to not only take him off ours hands, not only eat his salary, but send us a decent player at a need position. Estrada for Mota has to go down as one of the biggest head scratching trades in MLB history. Looks like maybe there's a reason Milwaukee has the most bars per capita in America (Meyer, Brian).
4) Upgrade at catcher (Check-ish)
Haven't really done this, however, I don't truly think Omar is done looking yet. Omar will have no problem non-tendering Estrada if a better option becomes available, seeing as we gave away less than nothing (literally) to bring him here. I'm really glad Omar didn't give Posada 4 years, as I think I will be as effective as Posada in 2011. While I'm glad Castro will be back due to his power bat and getting to hear the Imperial March every few games, you know he isn't good for more than 100 games played, and is much better suited for a backup role. Even when filling in full time for Paulie, it was evident he can't handle playing constantly. He's a perennial backup, but a good one at that. As for the second head of Omar's 'two-headed monster, I'll say two things. 1) Yorvit Torrealbea at 3 years/$15 million? Michael Vick is a better investment at this point, maybe G-d is a Mets fan for making that one fall through. 2) I'm OK for now with Estrada being the second half, but I hope Omar keeps his eyes open..
5) Re-sign Castillo (Check)
I know some people disagree with me here, but I thought this was the right move. He's great fit for this team. A perfect 2 hole hitter that allows Reyes to flourish, a solid defender who meshed well with Reyes, and a guy who was surprisingly clutch in his 2 months in New York. However, 4 years, $32 million? It must really be a tough market out there...
6) Pick up the option on Alou. (Check)
.341 with a .916 OPS. He can play on my team any day, even if its only for 100 games. This guy is ageless, must be the ammonia.
7) Bring in a mid-level veteran outfielder
Alou can only be counted on for about 100 games, Beltran is guaranteed at least one DL stint, and who knows what young guys will still be on the roster come April. I'd feel a lot more comfortable with someone that you can feel OK with plugging in when someone goes down. Endy will be around, maybe give Green $3-4 million to break the All-Time Jewish Home Run Record on the Mets, but we need someone who can play every day if needed. Some ideas: Luis Gonzalez, Jose Guillen, Kenny Lofton
8) Improve scouting
It's painful watching the Yankees and Red Sox crank out great young players by the minute. Where's our Joba Chamberlain? Or Clay Buchholz? Or Jon Lester? Or Dustin Pedroia? Or Jacoby Ellsbury? As of this moment, the Mets have two first round picks and a sandwich pick, let's spend some money on scouting and get some young studs.
1) Bring in an ace starting pitcher, no matter the cost (The stove is very hot..)
Honestly, at this point, every single deal I have heard for Santana that doesn't include Reyes sounds good to me. There is so little out there, that I can see myself rationalizing a deal along the lines of Pelfrey, Humber, Milledge, Gomez, Fernando Martinez and Deolis Guerra for Santana. It's sad, but I really don't have tremendous faith that any of these guys will develop into great players, and I want to see Santana in orange and blue in the worst way. Tell me you care who is in right field next year if Santana takes the mound on opening day for the next 8 years...
2) Upgrade the bullpen ( ??????)
Well the Mets off-season is underway for 53 days now, and I feel like I have made as much effort to upgrade the bullpen, well unless you consider addition by subtraction, which will be discussed in #3. However, how can this not be priority #1. This was so clearly the cause of the meltdown, and I feel like its not being addressed. Yes, Padilla and Sanchez are due to come back healthy, but they need to be treated as pleasant surprised if they're healthy, not be counted on. Get on it Omar..
3) Get rid of Guillermo Mota under any circumstance (Check plus)
Unbelievable, I would have been willing to pay a team to take him AND pay his salary, and somehow we got a team to not only take him off ours hands, not only eat his salary, but send us a decent player at a need position. Estrada for Mota has to go down as one of the biggest head scratching trades in MLB history. Looks like maybe there's a reason Milwaukee has the most bars per capita in America (Meyer, Brian).
4) Upgrade at catcher (Check-ish)
Haven't really done this, however, I don't truly think Omar is done looking yet. Omar will have no problem non-tendering Estrada if a better option becomes available, seeing as we gave away less than nothing (literally) to bring him here. I'm really glad Omar didn't give Posada 4 years, as I think I will be as effective as Posada in 2011. While I'm glad Castro will be back due to his power bat and getting to hear the Imperial March every few games, you know he isn't good for more than 100 games played, and is much better suited for a backup role. Even when filling in full time for Paulie, it was evident he can't handle playing constantly. He's a perennial backup, but a good one at that. As for the second head of Omar's 'two-headed monster, I'll say two things. 1) Yorvit Torrealbea at 3 years/$15 million? Michael Vick is a better investment at this point, maybe G-d is a Mets fan for making that one fall through. 2) I'm OK for now with Estrada being the second half, but I hope Omar keeps his eyes open..
5) Re-sign Castillo (Check)
I know some people disagree with me here, but I thought this was the right move. He's great fit for this team. A perfect 2 hole hitter that allows Reyes to flourish, a solid defender who meshed well with Reyes, and a guy who was surprisingly clutch in his 2 months in New York. However, 4 years, $32 million? It must really be a tough market out there...
6) Pick up the option on Alou. (Check)
.341 with a .916 OPS. He can play on my team any day, even if its only for 100 games. This guy is ageless, must be the ammonia.
7) Bring in a mid-level veteran outfielder
Alou can only be counted on for about 100 games, Beltran is guaranteed at least one DL stint, and who knows what young guys will still be on the roster come April. I'd feel a lot more comfortable with someone that you can feel OK with plugging in when someone goes down. Endy will be around, maybe give Green $3-4 million to break the All-Time Jewish Home Run Record on the Mets, but we need someone who can play every day if needed. Some ideas: Luis Gonzalez, Jose Guillen, Kenny Lofton
8) Improve scouting
It's painful watching the Yankees and Red Sox crank out great young players by the minute. Where's our Joba Chamberlain? Or Clay Buchholz? Or Jon Lester? Or Dustin Pedroia? Or Jacoby Ellsbury? As of this moment, the Mets have two first round picks and a sandwich pick, let's spend some money on scouting and get some young studs.
Numero uno
Attention dozens of people:
I have decided to start this blog for the following reasons.
1) I currently have enormous amounts of free time on my hands
2) I am tired of discussing my sports opinions with myself in the shower
3) The slight possibility lots of people read this blog, I can make it big, and then make millions by sitting on my ass and writing about sports.
Posts will mostly be about sports, but will also include some general ramblings. Expect a few motifs:
1) The Mets
2) From August-January, lots of college football
3) Slightly less bias than a Bill Simmons column, who despite writing solely about sports from the Devil's town, remains incredibly popular.
Happy Thanksgiving and tune in for more.
I have decided to start this blog for the following reasons.
1) I currently have enormous amounts of free time on my hands
2) I am tired of discussing my sports opinions with myself in the shower
3) The slight possibility lots of people read this blog, I can make it big, and then make millions by sitting on my ass and writing about sports.
Posts will mostly be about sports, but will also include some general ramblings. Expect a few motifs:
1) The Mets
2) From August-January, lots of college football
3) Slightly less bias than a Bill Simmons column, who despite writing solely about sports from the Devil's town, remains incredibly popular.
Happy Thanksgiving and tune in for more.
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