To kick off my preview special I figured we'd start things off in the NL West where our defending champions, the San Francisco Giants reside. If things play out like I think, we should have an interesting three team race between the Giants, the Colorado Rockies and the Los Angeles Dodgers. So without further ado let's take a look!
1. Colorado Rockies- In the offseason the Rockies were able to lock up superstars Troy Tulowitzki and Carlos Gonzalez. Gonzalez is likely to move from left field to right this season and has made an effort to bulk up in the offseason(he played last year at 200 pounds and hopes to play this one between 210-215). They addressed some bullpen needs through a trade(Lindstrom and Paulino) and brought in Ty Wiggington and Jose Lopez to compete with Eric Young Jr. for the job at second base. The Rockies re-signed LHP Jorge De La Rosa in the offseason and let the often injured Jeff Francis walk. Jhoulys Chacin will be counted on in the 3 spot of the rotation, he finished his rookie season 9-11 with a 3.28 ERA in 28 games. The Rockies have had some historical finishes in the month of September, if they can just avoid their slow starts that plague them they could lock the division up early this year.
Key additions: RHP Matt Lindstrom, INF Ty Wiggington, 2B/3B Jose Lopez, RHP Felipe Paulino and RHP John Maine.
Key losses: 3B Melvin Mora, 2B Clint Barmes, C Miguel Olivo, LHP Jeff Francis, RHP Octavio Dotel, RHP Manny Delcarmen and RHP Joel Beimel.
2. San Francisco Giants- The Giants didn't lose many pieces from their World Series team which means they didn't really add much either. They still have the most talented starting rotation in the NL West but their offense worries me. Outside of Buster Posey this lineup has a lot of questions. Can guys like Aubrey Huff and Cody Ross repeat performances from last year? Which Pablo Sandivol shows up, the slugger from 2009 or the overweight disappointment from 2010? Where does Mark DeRosa fit on this team? Left field for Pat Burrell, maybe third base if Sandivol struggles? The one thing the Giants may miss is the shortstop combo of Edgar Renteria(2010 World Series MVP)/Juan Uribe, the aging Miguel Tejada takes over there. Look for the Giants and Rockies to battle it out at the end of the year if the Giants score some runs for their pitchers.
Key additions: SS Miguel Tejada and RHP Jeff Suppan.
Key losses: SS Edgar Renteria and INF Juan Uribe.
3. Los Angeles Dodgers- The Dodgers really didn't make any big moves in the offseason due to a messy divorce going on with the team's owner. A divorce which could ultimately cost this team a run at the division. The team headed into the spring with its five starters set but the big question is can closer Jonathan Broxton bounce back from an awful second half of 2010. The Dodgers still have Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier and James Loney who will be counted on heavily to carry this team. Replacing Russell Martin with Rod Barajas isn't an upgrade. With no true number 2 hitter this team could struggle offensively.
Key additions: RHP Matt Guerrier, INF Juan Uribe, RHP Jon Garland, RHP Blake Hawksworth and OF Marcus Thames.
Key losses: C Russell Martin, LHP George Sherrill, INF Ryan Theriot, and OF Scott Podsednik.
4. Arizona Diamonbacks- New GM Kevin Towers vowed to changed things at Arizona and his first goal was a D'Backs bullpen that had a 5.74 ERA and blew 24 saves last year. He did that by bringing in J.J. Putz to close and RHP David Hernandez who should be a set-up man to Putz. One signing I like is Micah Owings, who Arizona plans on using as both a relief pitcher and first baseman. Owings can hit which is why he's being looked at to do both. This team has some young talent in Stephen Drew, Justin Upton and Chris Young. It depends on whether or not they all show up. With a weak starting rotation, the D'Backs are still a year or two away from a division run. But GM Kevin Towers will get them back on track sooner rather than later.
Key additions: RHP J.J. Putz, 3B Melvin Mora, RHP David Hernandez, RHP Kam Mickolio, LHP Zach Duke and RHP Armando Galarraga.
Key losses: 3B Mark Reynolds, RHP Brandon Webb and 1B Adam LaRoche.
5. San Diego Padres- There's no easy way to replace Adrian Gonzalez a big part of last year's team that made a surprise run in the NL West. Not mention the Padres lost three-fifths of their Opening Day rotation. But the good news is they still have ace, Mat Latos and closer Heath Bell... for now at least. Latos has stuff to be a number 1 and Bell is sure to be mentioned as a trade piece near the deadline to a contender. The Padres are sure to have a battle for the number 5 spot in their rotation. With the exception of 3B Chase Headley, the Padres have a whole new infield with some names looking to recover from down years last year. They would be SS Jason Bartlett, 2B Orlando Hudson and 1B Brad Hawpe. Bottom line this team won't contend in the long haul this season.
Key additions: 2B Orlando Hudson, SS Jason Bartlett, 1B Brad Hawpe, INF Jorge Cantu, OF Cameron Maybin and RHP Aaron Harang.
Key losses: 1B Adrian Gonzalez, RHP Chris Young, RHP Kevin Correia, RHP Jon Garland, OF Tony Gwynn Jr., SS Miguel Tejada, OF Matt Stairs and OF Scott Hairston.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Monday, January 24, 2011
NFL Quick Hit: Finally Someone Other Than Roger Goodell Makes Sense on Labor Talks
A week or so after I blasted New York Jets' Antonio Cromartie for crying to the media for calling Tom Brady "an asshole" he's finally starting to make sense. Usually you won't see a player cross the Player's Union the way Cromartie did but it's nice to see the players take a stand after the Union leader, DeMaurice Smith declared war on the owners.
Today as Cromartie and his teammates cleaned out their lockers, many of them were asked about the labor issue and possible lockout. That's when Cromartie dropped this bomb on us all, "You got our head union rep acting like an asshole," Cromartie told Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News. "They got their guys acting like assholes. So they just need to get their shit together and just get it done."
Cromartie went on to say, "... it’s getting to the point where it’s getting ridiculous when everything is always dealing with money. You’re basically dealing with people’s livelihoods. ... To me, you need to stop bitching about it. If you want to say that you want to get into a room and meet. Then, do it. Don’t just talk about it."
It's about time someone other than Roger Goodell try to do something about this possible work stoppage facing the NFL. However, Goodell isn't exactly innocent here. He wants an 18-game season but won't even consider giving the players an extra bye or more roster spaces. Let's face it, this is a violent game as it is. You add two more games and your injuries go up.
Someone needs to tell Goodell that you don't fix something that isn't broken. I'll try to keep you updated as we near the March 3rd expiration date of the current NFL collection bargaining agreement. And Kudos to Cromartie for manning up today.
Today as Cromartie and his teammates cleaned out their lockers, many of them were asked about the labor issue and possible lockout. That's when Cromartie dropped this bomb on us all, "You got our head union rep acting like an asshole," Cromartie told Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News. "They got their guys acting like assholes. So they just need to get their shit together and just get it done."
Cromartie went on to say, "... it’s getting to the point where it’s getting ridiculous when everything is always dealing with money. You’re basically dealing with people’s livelihoods. ... To me, you need to stop bitching about it. If you want to say that you want to get into a room and meet. Then, do it. Don’t just talk about it."
It's about time someone other than Roger Goodell try to do something about this possible work stoppage facing the NFL. However, Goodell isn't exactly innocent here. He wants an 18-game season but won't even consider giving the players an extra bye or more roster spaces. Let's face it, this is a violent game as it is. You add two more games and your injuries go up.
Someone needs to tell Goodell that you don't fix something that isn't broken. I'll try to keep you updated as we near the March 3rd expiration date of the current NFL collection bargaining agreement. And Kudos to Cromartie for manning up today.
Everyone Is A Tough Guy From Their Couch
On Sunday, in the NFC Championship game Jay Cutler hurt his knee. He tried playing on his bum knee immediately after his injury leading up to halftime and in the Bears' first possession of the second half. He came out because the doctors advised him to do, earlier when he first hurt the knee and again after that first possession of the second half. Cutler clearly couldn't plant on his left leg which affected him throwing the ball.
But when Cutler didn't come back what happened next was just spineless and cowardly. Many NFL players, current and former, took shots at Cutler from their Twitter account. Maurice Jones-Drew, Darnell Dockett, Kerry Rhodes, Deion Sanders and Mark Schlereth were a few. And while MJD has issued an apology for a "joke gone wrong" it is sad that all these guys jump the gun like this because Cutler wasn't being carted off the field, wasn't crying in pain, wasn't limping enough or wasn't that upset on the sideline.
The cameras weren't always on Cutler so no one other than the people in attendance can actually say how Cutler appeared the whole time. And for those who did question him and want to question Jay Cutler's toughness you may want to hear this. Cutler took 52 sacks this season which led the league. You can easily double if not triple that number for the amount of hits he took. And when Cutler scrambles he usually absorbs the hit from the defender instead of sliding and giving up a few extra yards. Earlier in the season Cutler was sacked nine times in the first half of a week 4 game against the New York Giants. The ninth sack sidelined him for the rest of the game and the following week as the Bears took on the Carolina Panthers.
But Cutler never complained. He never chewed out teammates to the public. He simply took his lickings and continued to get up and dust himself off. And maybe just maybe that's why Cutler's teammates had his back after the game last night and today. When Brian Urlacher vouches for your toughness by saying, “Jay was hurt,” Urlacher said. “I don’t question his toughness. He’s one of the toughest guys on our — he’s tough as hell. He’s one of the toughest guys on our football team. He doesn’t bitch, he doesn’t complain when he gets hit, he goes out there and plays his ass off every Sunday, practices every day. So, no, we don’t question his toughness.” Hell when Urlacher vouches for any one's toughness I'll trust his opinion.
Urlacher also said "Nothing like jealous people who are sitting home watching. Players around the league you said, right? Yeah, love jealous people when they're watching our game on TV while their season is over." Urlacher was right, that jealousy spewing all over Twitter reminded me of something you'd see in middle school. He and all of his teammate have a legitimate reason to be upset as these people cowardly attacked their quarterback who led this team to a 12 win season and a 2 seed in the NFC.
By all means, everyone is entitled to their own opinion but remember it's always easy to be the tough guy when you're hiding behind your Twitter or Facebook account.
But when Cutler didn't come back what happened next was just spineless and cowardly. Many NFL players, current and former, took shots at Cutler from their Twitter account. Maurice Jones-Drew, Darnell Dockett, Kerry Rhodes, Deion Sanders and Mark Schlereth were a few. And while MJD has issued an apology for a "joke gone wrong" it is sad that all these guys jump the gun like this because Cutler wasn't being carted off the field, wasn't crying in pain, wasn't limping enough or wasn't that upset on the sideline.
The cameras weren't always on Cutler so no one other than the people in attendance can actually say how Cutler appeared the whole time. And for those who did question him and want to question Jay Cutler's toughness you may want to hear this. Cutler took 52 sacks this season which led the league. You can easily double if not triple that number for the amount of hits he took. And when Cutler scrambles he usually absorbs the hit from the defender instead of sliding and giving up a few extra yards. Earlier in the season Cutler was sacked nine times in the first half of a week 4 game against the New York Giants. The ninth sack sidelined him for the rest of the game and the following week as the Bears took on the Carolina Panthers.
But Cutler never complained. He never chewed out teammates to the public. He simply took his lickings and continued to get up and dust himself off. And maybe just maybe that's why Cutler's teammates had his back after the game last night and today. When Brian Urlacher vouches for your toughness by saying, “Jay was hurt,” Urlacher said. “I don’t question his toughness. He’s one of the toughest guys on our — he’s tough as hell. He’s one of the toughest guys on our football team. He doesn’t bitch, he doesn’t complain when he gets hit, he goes out there and plays his ass off every Sunday, practices every day. So, no, we don’t question his toughness.” Hell when Urlacher vouches for any one's toughness I'll trust his opinion.
Urlacher also said "Nothing like jealous people who are sitting home watching. Players around the league you said, right? Yeah, love jealous people when they're watching our game on TV while their season is over." Urlacher was right, that jealousy spewing all over Twitter reminded me of something you'd see in middle school. He and all of his teammate have a legitimate reason to be upset as these people cowardly attacked their quarterback who led this team to a 12 win season and a 2 seed in the NFC.
By all means, everyone is entitled to their own opinion but remember it's always easy to be the tough guy when you're hiding behind your Twitter or Facebook account.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
How Two Simple Words Almost Killed Football At The University Of Michigan And The Man Who Might Save It?
Two simple words from a phrase legendary Bo Schembechler used over 20 years ago have almost ruined the program he built and loved so dearly, "Michigan Man". For the last three years fans and alum have been throwing this term without knowing the true meaning of it. In 1989, before the start of the NCAA Men's basketball tournament Bill Frieder then coach and Michigan alum announced he was leaving for the Arizona State vacancy after the tournament. Schembechler, now the AD of the school was going to have none of it. He proclaimed at the press conference promoting assistant coach Steve Fisher to interim head coach that, "a Michigan man is going to coach a Michigan team."
Now what Bo meant or what one who can understand this knows he meant that the only people to coach a Michigan team are people who are fully committed to Michigan and the team. Someone who understands the traditions at Michigan, they don't need to necessarily know them at hire but should be able to understand them once explained. This was Rich Rodriguez's first mistake when he came into the job. He tried giving away the jersey number 1 to anyone, a jersey which has been held for a wide receiver who has earned the right to wear it. He also did away with team captains which he later restored.
This caused a rift with former players and the then current staff. The main culprit is Braylon Edwards who has gone out of his way to introduce himself as "Braylon Edwards from Lloyd Carr's Michigan". Rodriguez's few early mistakes lost the support of former players who never bothered to stand behind him. Rich Rodriguez wanted to be a "Michigan Man", he wanted that title so badly that he cried at the last team banquet which he was still the coach of. Those mistakes weren't what cost Rodriguez the "Michigan Man" title, instead it was he refusal to adapt to Big Ten play. His lack of recruiting on defense and his 3-3-5 defensive scheme were setting him up to his ultimate firing.
Now on to the "Michigan Man" who might just be able to unite the Carr and Schembechler groups who have split the ties to this program. Brady Hoke isn't the sexy hire that everyone wanted to see but Hoke is safe hire who could be around for the next 15-20 years if he wins. Hoke worked under Lloyd Carr as an assistant coach from 1995-2002. He then went on to be the head coach at Ball State and in 2008 took them to a 12-1 record. He then spent two years at San Diego State where this year he led them to a 9-4 record and their first bowl win since 1969. Hoke has also been a great recruiter for years in the state of California, something which he'll need to continue if he plans on winning at Michigan.
How did Michigan get to Hoke? Well it's simple really, Jim Harbaugh didn't want the job because he was headed to the NFL which Dave Brandon pretty much told everybody the day after the Orange Bowl. This led many people to think that Les Miles who passed on the job three years ago would take the job if offered. But like Harbaugh, who was never offered the job neither was Miles but for different reasons. Harbaugh wasn't offered the job because it was believed he would always entertain thoughts of leaving for the NFL and Brandon wanted to hire a guy who would stick around for quite a long time. Miles was never offered the job presumably because of the seven self-reported violations LSU just made to the NCAA, this might have been enough to scare off Brandon seeing how Michigan is on a three year probation period.
Thus leading Brandon to Brady Hoke, the man with Michigan ties. This job was his all along and he was really the only guy who interviewed for it, which is somewhat disappointing. Disappointing because this is the University of Michigan, they should have been able to pluck anyone they wanted from any school in America. Bob Stoops, Chris Petersen, Gary Patterson, etc. Now they might have said no but you have the money and the prestige to rightfully think no one was untouchable. Anyone of those guys would have been the sexy hire many fans and alum at Michigan were hoping for, someone who could have turned things around quickly.
Instead the hopes are that Brady Hoke will unite and unify the program among its players both current and former and the fan base too. While I reserve full judgment on the hire of Hoke until he brings in his full staff I do like the hiring I just don't like the run around fashion it was done in. Hoke will recruit, make no mistake about it but it might just take him a couple years longer then it would have the sexy hire many hoped for. One thing is for sure though, this hire should stop idiots from introducing themselves as being from "Lloyd Carr's University of Michigan".
Now what Bo meant or what one who can understand this knows he meant that the only people to coach a Michigan team are people who are fully committed to Michigan and the team. Someone who understands the traditions at Michigan, they don't need to necessarily know them at hire but should be able to understand them once explained. This was Rich Rodriguez's first mistake when he came into the job. He tried giving away the jersey number 1 to anyone, a jersey which has been held for a wide receiver who has earned the right to wear it. He also did away with team captains which he later restored.
This caused a rift with former players and the then current staff. The main culprit is Braylon Edwards who has gone out of his way to introduce himself as "Braylon Edwards from Lloyd Carr's Michigan". Rodriguez's few early mistakes lost the support of former players who never bothered to stand behind him. Rich Rodriguez wanted to be a "Michigan Man", he wanted that title so badly that he cried at the last team banquet which he was still the coach of. Those mistakes weren't what cost Rodriguez the "Michigan Man" title, instead it was he refusal to adapt to Big Ten play. His lack of recruiting on defense and his 3-3-5 defensive scheme were setting him up to his ultimate firing.
Now on to the "Michigan Man" who might just be able to unite the Carr and Schembechler groups who have split the ties to this program. Brady Hoke isn't the sexy hire that everyone wanted to see but Hoke is safe hire who could be around for the next 15-20 years if he wins. Hoke worked under Lloyd Carr as an assistant coach from 1995-2002. He then went on to be the head coach at Ball State and in 2008 took them to a 12-1 record. He then spent two years at San Diego State where this year he led them to a 9-4 record and their first bowl win since 1969. Hoke has also been a great recruiter for years in the state of California, something which he'll need to continue if he plans on winning at Michigan.
How did Michigan get to Hoke? Well it's simple really, Jim Harbaugh didn't want the job because he was headed to the NFL which Dave Brandon pretty much told everybody the day after the Orange Bowl. This led many people to think that Les Miles who passed on the job three years ago would take the job if offered. But like Harbaugh, who was never offered the job neither was Miles but for different reasons. Harbaugh wasn't offered the job because it was believed he would always entertain thoughts of leaving for the NFL and Brandon wanted to hire a guy who would stick around for quite a long time. Miles was never offered the job presumably because of the seven self-reported violations LSU just made to the NCAA, this might have been enough to scare off Brandon seeing how Michigan is on a three year probation period.
Thus leading Brandon to Brady Hoke, the man with Michigan ties. This job was his all along and he was really the only guy who interviewed for it, which is somewhat disappointing. Disappointing because this is the University of Michigan, they should have been able to pluck anyone they wanted from any school in America. Bob Stoops, Chris Petersen, Gary Patterson, etc. Now they might have said no but you have the money and the prestige to rightfully think no one was untouchable. Anyone of those guys would have been the sexy hire many fans and alum at Michigan were hoping for, someone who could have turned things around quickly.
Instead the hopes are that Brady Hoke will unite and unify the program among its players both current and former and the fan base too. While I reserve full judgment on the hire of Hoke until he brings in his full staff I do like the hiring I just don't like the run around fashion it was done in. Hoke will recruit, make no mistake about it but it might just take him a couple years longer then it would have the sexy hire many hoped for. One thing is for sure though, this hire should stop idiots from introducing themselves as being from "Lloyd Carr's University of Michigan".
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
2010 MLB Predictions
This is going to be a shortened version of my MLB predictions, hope you enjoy.
NL East:
1. Philadelphia Phillies - Last year's World Series runner ups only got better in the offseason. They traded away Cliff Lee but they gained Roy Halladay and Placido Polanco. The back end of their rotation worries me but their offense will make up for it.
2. Atlanta Braves - They traded away Javier Vazquez in the offseason but the Braves are talented and young. Rookie phenom Jason Heyward made the team and look for big things out of the 20-year old who stands 6'5" and 245 lbs.
3. New York Mets - The New York Mets are a mess. David Wright and newly acquired Jason Bay should have big years but that's it. Jose Reyes and Carlos Beltran are starting the season on the DL. I'm not sold on starters 2-5 either.
4. Florida Marlins - The Marlins are an interesting team. They have young talent (Cameron Maybin, Gaby Sanchez and Chris Coghlan) to go with Hanley Ramirez and Dan Uggla. Pitching is their weakness though, outside of Cy Young contender Josh Johnson their starters are injury prone or unproven.
5. Washington Nationals - They're moving in the right direction but the Nats are still a mess. A few years away from contention. Steven Strasburg should be up in May or June.
NL Central:
1. St. Louis Cardinals - It's hard to pick against Albert Pujols, he's a beast. And it looks like he finally has some help in Matt Holliday. Yadier Molina and Brendan Ryan should come into a groove offensively. Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright are one of the best 1-2 duos in the game.
2. Milwaukee Brewers - I love the Brewers but Prince Fielder and Ryan Braun can't carry this team into the playoffs. Rickie Weeks needs to stay healthy to help give the Brew Crew a chance, but their starting rotation isn't strong enough to compete for first.
3. Chicago Cubs - Let's be real, the Cubs haven't won in over 100 years and that streak is going to continue to grow. The Cubs have too many overpaid players leaving guys like Derrek Lee and Geo Soto to fend for themselves. Big Z is done.
4. Cincinnati Reds - The Reds have great talent in Brandon Phillips, Joey Votto, Chris Dickerson and Jay Bruce. But those four guys can't carry these guys to where they need to be. Aroldis Chapman, the Cuban defector will start in Triple-A but he'll be in the show soon.
5. Pittsburgh Pirates - The Pirates won't finish over .500 for the 18th year in a row but they will come close I feel. They have tons of young talent in Ryan Doumit, Garrett Jones, Andrew McCutchen, Lastings Milledge and Jeff Clement. Their rotation needs help but Paul Maholm and Zach Duke are solid pitchers.
6. Houston Astros - The Astros are a mess. Carlos Lee is their best player while Hunter Pence shows promise. But this team is going to struggle all year, especially with Roy Oswalt on the decline.
NL West:
1. Colorado Rockies - The Rockies are by far the best team in the West. Troy Tulowitzki will make a run for MVP this year with Carlos Gonzalez, Dexter Fowler and Todd Helton hitting in front of him. Their rotation is good and will get better once Jeff Francis gets healthy.
2. San Francisco Giants - The Giants will push the Rockies but they won't have the offense to compete. Their pitching is going to keep them in the race but Pablo Sandoval can't carry this team on his own for 162 games.
3. Los Angeles Dodgers - The Dodgers have talent but I just don't see it being enough for second, they'll finish a game or two behind the Giants. Kemp, Ethier and Loney won't be enough. And the Dodgers are counting on Chad Billingsley and Clayton Kershaw to anchor their rotation with nothing else to show.
4. Arizona Diamondbacks - Dan Haren could win a Cy Young if he gets offensive support. The D'backs have talent in Justin Upton, Stephen Drew, Mark Reynolds and Miguel Montero. But outside of Haren and Jackson their pitching is bleak.
5. San Diego Padres - The only question here is will the Padres trade Adrian Gonzalez at the deadline or keep him and get nothing in return when he leaves after the season?
AL East:
1. Tampa Bay Rays - The Rays are in a win now mode with Carl Crawford and Carlos Pena gone at the season's end. Guys like Evan Longoria, Ben Zobrist and B.J. Upton will help keep this team atop the East. The back end of the rotation is unproven but talented.
2. Boston Red Sox - The Sox brought in Adrian Beltre, Marco Scutaro and Mike Cameron to shore up their defense. Then they went out and got John Lackey to join their rotation. This team is too talented but will it play well together?
3. New York Yankees - A payroll over $200 million and they still finish third? You best believe it. Yeah they have Big Tex, ARod and Jeter but don't buy into the hype. Vazquez was a bust his first time here, things won't change.
4. Baltimore Orioles - I love where this team is headed if they keep their young talent. Guys like Matt Wieters, Adam Jones, Nolan Reimold and Nick Markakis are gonna be good. They have a good, young rotation too in Jeremy Guthrie, Brian Matusz and Brad Bergesen. They compete outside of the division but the top 3 will still beat up on them.
5. Toronto Blue Jays - The Jays are a mess. They have talent in Aaron Hill, Adam Lind, Vernon Wells and Travis Snider but not enough. Starting pitching will be their Achilles all year.
AL Central:
1. Chicago White Sox - It pains me to put them here but the White Sox have possibly one of the best 5 man rotations in the game. Their offense won't be great but pitching is going to win their games for them. Gordon Beckham is a stud and will be for years to come.
2. Detroit Tigers - Too many question marks on this team. How will rookies Austin Jackson and Scott Sizemore handle starting? How will Willis and Bonderman bounce back? Can Laird and Everett hit over .220? Will Damon and Ordonez hold up? If yes or well is the answer to most of these question the Tigers could sneak out the AL Central crown but it won't be easy.
3. Minnesota Twins - Leaving the Metrodome will hurt the Twins and their slap-n-boogie hitters (Span, Hudson, Punto) and even Mauer who relied on that turf for grounders getting through fast or high choppers hanging in the air. I'm gonna dub it, the Curse of the Metrodome or the Curse of Target Field.
4. Kansas City Royals - Zack Grienke won the Cy Young and could repeat if guys like Billy Butler and Rick Ankiel step up. If not Zack will be on his own again.
5. Cleveland Indians - The Indians have some talent (Sizemore, Cabrera and LaPorta) but not enough. This roster is bad.
AL West:
1. Seattle Mariners - Imagine having to face Felix Hernandez and then Cliff Lee the next night, that's scary. Well the Mariners made us imagine no more. Assuming the back end of the rotation holds up the Mariners run away with this thing. Ichiro, Figgins, Gutierrez will lead the way.
2. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim - This team is good but has pitching problems. Can Jared Weaver be an ace? Kendry Morales and Bobby Abreu can't carry this team to a division title this year.
3. Texas Rangers - They're good just not good enough. Young, Hamilton and Cruz won't have the talent around them to support them. While Feldman and Harden will be bright spots in the rotation.
4. Oakland A's - This team might hit the least home runs and have the worst slugging percentage in all of baseball. Kurt Suzuki and Brett Anderson are stars on a bad team.
Playoffs:
NL - Phillies, Cardinals, Rockies and Braves(wild card). Rockies over Phillies
AL - Rays, White Sox, Mariners and Red Sox(wild card). Rays over Mariners
World Series - Rockies over Rays in 6.
Awards:
NL MVP - Albert Pujols edges out Troy Tulowitzki
AL MVP- Evan Longoria
NL Cy Young - Roy Halladay
AL Cy Young - Felix Hernandez
NL Rookie of the Year - Jason Heyward
AL Rookie of the Year - Brian Matusz
NL East:
1. Philadelphia Phillies - Last year's World Series runner ups only got better in the offseason. They traded away Cliff Lee but they gained Roy Halladay and Placido Polanco. The back end of their rotation worries me but their offense will make up for it.
2. Atlanta Braves - They traded away Javier Vazquez in the offseason but the Braves are talented and young. Rookie phenom Jason Heyward made the team and look for big things out of the 20-year old who stands 6'5" and 245 lbs.
3. New York Mets - The New York Mets are a mess. David Wright and newly acquired Jason Bay should have big years but that's it. Jose Reyes and Carlos Beltran are starting the season on the DL. I'm not sold on starters 2-5 either.
4. Florida Marlins - The Marlins are an interesting team. They have young talent (Cameron Maybin, Gaby Sanchez and Chris Coghlan) to go with Hanley Ramirez and Dan Uggla. Pitching is their weakness though, outside of Cy Young contender Josh Johnson their starters are injury prone or unproven.
5. Washington Nationals - They're moving in the right direction but the Nats are still a mess. A few years away from contention. Steven Strasburg should be up in May or June.
NL Central:
1. St. Louis Cardinals - It's hard to pick against Albert Pujols, he's a beast. And it looks like he finally has some help in Matt Holliday. Yadier Molina and Brendan Ryan should come into a groove offensively. Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright are one of the best 1-2 duos in the game.
2. Milwaukee Brewers - I love the Brewers but Prince Fielder and Ryan Braun can't carry this team into the playoffs. Rickie Weeks needs to stay healthy to help give the Brew Crew a chance, but their starting rotation isn't strong enough to compete for first.
3. Chicago Cubs - Let's be real, the Cubs haven't won in over 100 years and that streak is going to continue to grow. The Cubs have too many overpaid players leaving guys like Derrek Lee and Geo Soto to fend for themselves. Big Z is done.
4. Cincinnati Reds - The Reds have great talent in Brandon Phillips, Joey Votto, Chris Dickerson and Jay Bruce. But those four guys can't carry these guys to where they need to be. Aroldis Chapman, the Cuban defector will start in Triple-A but he'll be in the show soon.
5. Pittsburgh Pirates - The Pirates won't finish over .500 for the 18th year in a row but they will come close I feel. They have tons of young talent in Ryan Doumit, Garrett Jones, Andrew McCutchen, Lastings Milledge and Jeff Clement. Their rotation needs help but Paul Maholm and Zach Duke are solid pitchers.
6. Houston Astros - The Astros are a mess. Carlos Lee is their best player while Hunter Pence shows promise. But this team is going to struggle all year, especially with Roy Oswalt on the decline.
NL West:
1. Colorado Rockies - The Rockies are by far the best team in the West. Troy Tulowitzki will make a run for MVP this year with Carlos Gonzalez, Dexter Fowler and Todd Helton hitting in front of him. Their rotation is good and will get better once Jeff Francis gets healthy.
2. San Francisco Giants - The Giants will push the Rockies but they won't have the offense to compete. Their pitching is going to keep them in the race but Pablo Sandoval can't carry this team on his own for 162 games.
3. Los Angeles Dodgers - The Dodgers have talent but I just don't see it being enough for second, they'll finish a game or two behind the Giants. Kemp, Ethier and Loney won't be enough. And the Dodgers are counting on Chad Billingsley and Clayton Kershaw to anchor their rotation with nothing else to show.
4. Arizona Diamondbacks - Dan Haren could win a Cy Young if he gets offensive support. The D'backs have talent in Justin Upton, Stephen Drew, Mark Reynolds and Miguel Montero. But outside of Haren and Jackson their pitching is bleak.
5. San Diego Padres - The only question here is will the Padres trade Adrian Gonzalez at the deadline or keep him and get nothing in return when he leaves after the season?
AL East:
1. Tampa Bay Rays - The Rays are in a win now mode with Carl Crawford and Carlos Pena gone at the season's end. Guys like Evan Longoria, Ben Zobrist and B.J. Upton will help keep this team atop the East. The back end of the rotation is unproven but talented.
2. Boston Red Sox - The Sox brought in Adrian Beltre, Marco Scutaro and Mike Cameron to shore up their defense. Then they went out and got John Lackey to join their rotation. This team is too talented but will it play well together?
3. New York Yankees - A payroll over $200 million and they still finish third? You best believe it. Yeah they have Big Tex, ARod and Jeter but don't buy into the hype. Vazquez was a bust his first time here, things won't change.
4. Baltimore Orioles - I love where this team is headed if they keep their young talent. Guys like Matt Wieters, Adam Jones, Nolan Reimold and Nick Markakis are gonna be good. They have a good, young rotation too in Jeremy Guthrie, Brian Matusz and Brad Bergesen. They compete outside of the division but the top 3 will still beat up on them.
5. Toronto Blue Jays - The Jays are a mess. They have talent in Aaron Hill, Adam Lind, Vernon Wells and Travis Snider but not enough. Starting pitching will be their Achilles all year.
AL Central:
1. Chicago White Sox - It pains me to put them here but the White Sox have possibly one of the best 5 man rotations in the game. Their offense won't be great but pitching is going to win their games for them. Gordon Beckham is a stud and will be for years to come.
2. Detroit Tigers - Too many question marks on this team. How will rookies Austin Jackson and Scott Sizemore handle starting? How will Willis and Bonderman bounce back? Can Laird and Everett hit over .220? Will Damon and Ordonez hold up? If yes or well is the answer to most of these question the Tigers could sneak out the AL Central crown but it won't be easy.
3. Minnesota Twins - Leaving the Metrodome will hurt the Twins and their slap-n-boogie hitters (Span, Hudson, Punto) and even Mauer who relied on that turf for grounders getting through fast or high choppers hanging in the air. I'm gonna dub it, the Curse of the Metrodome or the Curse of Target Field.
4. Kansas City Royals - Zack Grienke won the Cy Young and could repeat if guys like Billy Butler and Rick Ankiel step up. If not Zack will be on his own again.
5. Cleveland Indians - The Indians have some talent (Sizemore, Cabrera and LaPorta) but not enough. This roster is bad.
AL West:
1. Seattle Mariners - Imagine having to face Felix Hernandez and then Cliff Lee the next night, that's scary. Well the Mariners made us imagine no more. Assuming the back end of the rotation holds up the Mariners run away with this thing. Ichiro, Figgins, Gutierrez will lead the way.
2. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim - This team is good but has pitching problems. Can Jared Weaver be an ace? Kendry Morales and Bobby Abreu can't carry this team to a division title this year.
3. Texas Rangers - They're good just not good enough. Young, Hamilton and Cruz won't have the talent around them to support them. While Feldman and Harden will be bright spots in the rotation.
4. Oakland A's - This team might hit the least home runs and have the worst slugging percentage in all of baseball. Kurt Suzuki and Brett Anderson are stars on a bad team.
Playoffs:
NL - Phillies, Cardinals, Rockies and Braves(wild card). Rockies over Phillies
AL - Rays, White Sox, Mariners and Red Sox(wild card). Rays over Mariners
World Series - Rockies over Rays in 6.
Awards:
NL MVP - Albert Pujols edges out Troy Tulowitzki
AL MVP- Evan Longoria
NL Cy Young - Roy Halladay
AL Cy Young - Felix Hernandez
NL Rookie of the Year - Jason Heyward
AL Rookie of the Year - Brian Matusz
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Top 10 March Madness Buzzer Beaters
To get everyone in the mood for March Madness I put together what I feel is ten of the best buzzer beaters in March Madness history, enjoy!
10. U.S. Reed, Arkansas v Louisville 2nd round 1981. Arkansas 74, Louisville 73
I rank it tenth because although it was a great shot, let's be honest it's old. By the way, U.S. went by that because he was named Ulysses, after the president.
9. James Forrest, Georgia Tech v USC 1992 2nd round. GT 79, USC 78
"Holy Mackeral" indeed. The 7th seeded Yellows Jackets upset the 2nd seeded Trojans thanks to Forrest's first and only three that year. More impressive, he only 0.8 seconds to work with!
8. Mike Miller, Florida v Butler, 2000 1st round. Florida 69, Butler 68 OT
I couldn't find any video of it on the internet but this will do, click the link it comes on at the 0:25 mark on the video.
The Gators would go all the way to the National Championship after nearly being knocked out in the first round. Of course they lost to Michigan State which broke my heart because I hate MSU.
7. Kenton Paulino, Texas v WVU 2006 Sweet 16. Texas 74, WVU 71
Hey John Beilein, buzzer beaters and the month of March just don't go well with you do they? The 2nd seeded Longhorns would knock off the 6th seeded Mountaineers to move on to the Elite 8.
6. Tyus Edney, UCLA v Missouri 1995 2nd round. UCLA 75, Mizzou 74
5'10" Tyus Edney goes the length of the floor in 4.8 seconds to hit the game winning shot for the number 1 overall team in the tourney in UCLA. The Bruins would go on to win the National Championship and this would be the first time in my life I picked the winner of the tournament (I'm up to 5 now), but at the time I was only 8. So what if I got some help from my dad, I still wrote it in!
5. Bryce Drew, Valparaiso v Ole Miss 1998 1st round. Valpo 70, Ole Miss 69
Bryce who? Bryce Drew, the coach's son hit a the game winning 3 to move Valpo forward and is responsible for hitting "The Shot". A replay you're assured to see at least during the tournament if not a 100 times. Did you know, Bryce Drew was selected in the first round by the Houston Rockets? He was and didn't do much there, sorry Houston? Or sorry Drew?
4. Drew Nicholas, Maryland v UNC-Wilmington 2003 1st round. Maryland 75, UNCW 73
Coming off winning the National Championship in 2002 (which I called and earned me the nickname of Juan Dixon when I was playing hoops down south with my cousins and their friends) Maryland was about to become the first defending champs to be knocked out in the first round since UCLA did it in 1996. But that's when "the Juan Dixon impersonator" Drew Nicholas stepped up. I love how he hit that running 3 and just kept on running right into the locker room. Aaaaaaaand BOOM goes the dynamite!
3. Richard Hamilton, UConn v Washington 1998 Sweet 16. UConn 75, Washington 74
Sean McDonough's call on this is priceless to start with. Richard "Rip" Hamilton knocked down one of the greatest buzzer beaters in my opinion and he saved the 2nd seeded Huskies from elimination at the hands of the 11th seeded Huskies? That's right in the Huskies v Huskies match-up UConn came out top dog. They'd lose by 11 to UNC later in the tournament but the next year they'd make me look like a genius as they won the National Championship and bonus points they beat Duke. Suck on that Duke!
2. Lorenzo Charles, North Carolina State v Houston 1983 National Championship. NC State 54, Houston 52
The team and maybe the play that got the whole "cinderella story" to stick, the team that gives teams the will to go out there and get them that upset. They won the ACC tourney as a long shot and entered the tourney as a 6 seed. They knocked off the #1 overall team in the nation on the biggest stage, the National Championship game. Lorenzo Charles threw down a timely dunk and I love watching Jim Valvano run around like a mad man. This play almost got the #1 billing, just missed out.
1. Christian Laettner, Duke v Kentucky 1992 Elite Eight. Duke 104, Kentucky 103
Where to begin? Hell of pass by Grant Hill and a nice catch by Laettner but can you believe he dribbled and pivoted with 2.1 seconds and still got that shot off? Well believe it because he did. I hate Duke with a passion but this is the greatest buzzer beater ever in March Madness history. Christian Laettner was a cold-blooded assassin back in college, incase you don't know he hit a similar March Madness buzzer beater in 1990 against UConn in the Elite Eight. He must love that Elite Eight.
Well I hope y'all enjoyed MY Top Ten March Madness Buzzer Beaters. Leave your opinions!
10. U.S. Reed, Arkansas v Louisville 2nd round 1981. Arkansas 74, Louisville 73
I rank it tenth because although it was a great shot, let's be honest it's old. By the way, U.S. went by that because he was named Ulysses, after the president.
9. James Forrest, Georgia Tech v USC 1992 2nd round. GT 79, USC 78
"Holy Mackeral" indeed. The 7th seeded Yellows Jackets upset the 2nd seeded Trojans thanks to Forrest's first and only three that year. More impressive, he only 0.8 seconds to work with!
8. Mike Miller, Florida v Butler, 2000 1st round. Florida 69, Butler 68 OT
I couldn't find any video of it on the internet but this will do, click the link it comes on at the 0:25 mark on the video.
The Gators would go all the way to the National Championship after nearly being knocked out in the first round. Of course they lost to Michigan State which broke my heart because I hate MSU.
7. Kenton Paulino, Texas v WVU 2006 Sweet 16. Texas 74, WVU 71
Hey John Beilein, buzzer beaters and the month of March just don't go well with you do they? The 2nd seeded Longhorns would knock off the 6th seeded Mountaineers to move on to the Elite 8.
6. Tyus Edney, UCLA v Missouri 1995 2nd round. UCLA 75, Mizzou 74
5'10" Tyus Edney goes the length of the floor in 4.8 seconds to hit the game winning shot for the number 1 overall team in the tourney in UCLA. The Bruins would go on to win the National Championship and this would be the first time in my life I picked the winner of the tournament (I'm up to 5 now), but at the time I was only 8. So what if I got some help from my dad, I still wrote it in!
5. Bryce Drew, Valparaiso v Ole Miss 1998 1st round. Valpo 70, Ole Miss 69
Bryce who? Bryce Drew, the coach's son hit a the game winning 3 to move Valpo forward and is responsible for hitting "The Shot". A replay you're assured to see at least during the tournament if not a 100 times. Did you know, Bryce Drew was selected in the first round by the Houston Rockets? He was and didn't do much there, sorry Houston? Or sorry Drew?
4. Drew Nicholas, Maryland v UNC-Wilmington 2003 1st round. Maryland 75, UNCW 73
Coming off winning the National Championship in 2002 (which I called and earned me the nickname of Juan Dixon when I was playing hoops down south with my cousins and their friends) Maryland was about to become the first defending champs to be knocked out in the first round since UCLA did it in 1996. But that's when "the Juan Dixon impersonator" Drew Nicholas stepped up. I love how he hit that running 3 and just kept on running right into the locker room. Aaaaaaaand BOOM goes the dynamite!
3. Richard Hamilton, UConn v Washington 1998 Sweet 16. UConn 75, Washington 74
Sean McDonough's call on this is priceless to start with. Richard "Rip" Hamilton knocked down one of the greatest buzzer beaters in my opinion and he saved the 2nd seeded Huskies from elimination at the hands of the 11th seeded Huskies? That's right in the Huskies v Huskies match-up UConn came out top dog. They'd lose by 11 to UNC later in the tournament but the next year they'd make me look like a genius as they won the National Championship and bonus points they beat Duke. Suck on that Duke!
2. Lorenzo Charles, North Carolina State v Houston 1983 National Championship. NC State 54, Houston 52
The team and maybe the play that got the whole "cinderella story" to stick, the team that gives teams the will to go out there and get them that upset. They won the ACC tourney as a long shot and entered the tourney as a 6 seed. They knocked off the #1 overall team in the nation on the biggest stage, the National Championship game. Lorenzo Charles threw down a timely dunk and I love watching Jim Valvano run around like a mad man. This play almost got the #1 billing, just missed out.
1. Christian Laettner, Duke v Kentucky 1992 Elite Eight. Duke 104, Kentucky 103
Where to begin? Hell of pass by Grant Hill and a nice catch by Laettner but can you believe he dribbled and pivoted with 2.1 seconds and still got that shot off? Well believe it because he did. I hate Duke with a passion but this is the greatest buzzer beater ever in March Madness history. Christian Laettner was a cold-blooded assassin back in college, incase you don't know he hit a similar March Madness buzzer beater in 1990 against UConn in the Elite Eight. He must love that Elite Eight.
Well I hope y'all enjoyed MY Top Ten March Madness Buzzer Beaters. Leave your opinions!
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Canada v USA For Gold: Why The NHL Needed This!
Regardless of who wins gold and who gets silver in today's game between Canada and USA the NHL ultimately becomes the real winner. The NHL needed this game more than ever to try and put itself back the on the map. Given the fact that Gary Bettman has pretty much ruined the sport in the last 7 years this game could boost popularity to those fans on the fence about hockey. Since the 04-05 lockout hockey has been struggling to get back onto mainstream TV.
They lost their deal with ESPN, ESPN 2, ABC and FOX. They were forced to agree to terms with Versus who wasn't carried by all providers when hockey came back in 05-06. NBC agreed to broadcast a Sunday games after the NFL's regular season was over and select playoff games. Then came the Winter Classic which was a huge game for NBC but it's not enough. Hockey highlights hardly make SportsCenter when football and basketball or basketball and baseball are going at the same time.
The NHL needs to win back those fans they lost from the lockout because many of them have left for football, baseball or basketball. It needs Canada and USA to put on thriller and blow up the rating charts. It needs to see a fast game full of crushing checks, slick passing, spectacular saves and pretty goals all while avoiding a blowout. The NHL needs this game to show the EPSNs, ABC, FOX and NBC that there is a market out there for hockey.
A good showing and good rating could give the NHL some upper hand come 2011 when there could be possible lockouts in both the NFL and NBA, which is another story for another day.
They lost their deal with ESPN, ESPN 2, ABC and FOX. They were forced to agree to terms with Versus who wasn't carried by all providers when hockey came back in 05-06. NBC agreed to broadcast a Sunday games after the NFL's regular season was over and select playoff games. Then came the Winter Classic which was a huge game for NBC but it's not enough. Hockey highlights hardly make SportsCenter when football and basketball or basketball and baseball are going at the same time.
The NHL needs to win back those fans they lost from the lockout because many of them have left for football, baseball or basketball. It needs Canada and USA to put on thriller and blow up the rating charts. It needs to see a fast game full of crushing checks, slick passing, spectacular saves and pretty goals all while avoiding a blowout. The NHL needs this game to show the EPSNs, ABC, FOX and NBC that there is a market out there for hockey.
A good showing and good rating could give the NHL some upper hand come 2011 when there could be possible lockouts in both the NFL and NBA, which is another story for another day.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
The Curtis Granderson Edwin Jackson Trade
The Tigers made a great three way today when they trade Edwin Jackson to the Arizona Diamondbacks and Curtis Granderson to the Evil Empire (New York Yankees). Does it suck the Tigers traded Granderson, yes but look at this realistically. Curtis was a good player not a great player. He wasn't a leadoff hitter, he doesn't draw many walks, strikes out too much and is soon to be out his prime and most importantly he can't hit left handed pitching. Edwin was a good pitcher who broke down the second half of the season and wasn't effective down the stretch. The Tigers in return got 4 players, 3 of which could be great players here. Welcome Max Scherzer, Daniel Schlereth, Phil Coke and Austin Jackson.
Max Scherzer is a legitimate pitcher. Last year he went 9-11 with a 4.12 ERA while striking out 174 in 170 IP. He only walked 63 batters though which is a sign of good command. He throws hard and has a good repitore of pitches. Not only could he strike out over 200 hitters this season but a 1-2-3 combo of Verlander, Scherzer and Porcello is down right scary. Best thing about him is he's cheap and under our control for the next five years. Only downside in the should inflammation he suffered this year, not overly alarming though.
Daniel Schlereth is an extremely young, hard throwing lefty. He did get dinged around this September but he was a 23 year old making his big league debut from AA ball. Schlereth has a fastball that ranges from 91-95 MPH and a curveball that can make hitters look silly. He could be the closer of the future if not this season given the fact that Lyon and Rodney have declined arbitration. Schlereth has tremendous upside and in college at Arizona he closed game while Ryan Perry acted as a set-up man. The Tigers may want to look into this now that the two are teammates again.
Phil Coke is another lefty bullpen guy. Tigers fans can think of him as a left handed Zach Miner who is a tad more reliable. Coke was 8th in the A.L. in holds and was used regularly as a lefty specialist for the Yankees. Lefties hit .195 off of him last season. If need be the Tigers could also push Coke to a spot starter or 5th starter but he's better suited as a reliever.
Austin Jackson is the one piece of the puzzle I'm not crazy about. He busted through the minor rankings in a hurry but lately has shown signs of a regression, but that's to be expected of a 22 year old kid. You'll his ups and his downs. He hit .300 in AA last season but he doesn't have much power while he could grow into it don't bank on it. He needs to work on his plate discipline while cutting down the strikeouts but he is fast and is a great defensive player. The ceiling for Jackson is a right handed poor man's Curtis Granderson. The great thing about him is he's 22, and will turn 23 before the season starts. Odds are he'll be your day to day starting center fielder in 2010.
So Tigers fans look at it this way. The Tigers have taken a step back this year because they're looking to cut costs and wait for players (Magglio, Guillen, Bonderman, Robertson and Willis) to come off the books and free up huge money. Granderson and Jackson were traded so the Tigers could try to give Verlander the big, long contract he deserves. The Tigers will compete for 3rd in 2010 but look for them to be strong in 2011 if and big if, but if they can gap the problems at 3rd and shortstop. Sometimes you make a step backwards to go forward.
Max Scherzer is a legitimate pitcher. Last year he went 9-11 with a 4.12 ERA while striking out 174 in 170 IP. He only walked 63 batters though which is a sign of good command. He throws hard and has a good repitore of pitches. Not only could he strike out over 200 hitters this season but a 1-2-3 combo of Verlander, Scherzer and Porcello is down right scary. Best thing about him is he's cheap and under our control for the next five years. Only downside in the should inflammation he suffered this year, not overly alarming though.
Daniel Schlereth is an extremely young, hard throwing lefty. He did get dinged around this September but he was a 23 year old making his big league debut from AA ball. Schlereth has a fastball that ranges from 91-95 MPH and a curveball that can make hitters look silly. He could be the closer of the future if not this season given the fact that Lyon and Rodney have declined arbitration. Schlereth has tremendous upside and in college at Arizona he closed game while Ryan Perry acted as a set-up man. The Tigers may want to look into this now that the two are teammates again.
Phil Coke is another lefty bullpen guy. Tigers fans can think of him as a left handed Zach Miner who is a tad more reliable. Coke was 8th in the A.L. in holds and was used regularly as a lefty specialist for the Yankees. Lefties hit .195 off of him last season. If need be the Tigers could also push Coke to a spot starter or 5th starter but he's better suited as a reliever.
Austin Jackson is the one piece of the puzzle I'm not crazy about. He busted through the minor rankings in a hurry but lately has shown signs of a regression, but that's to be expected of a 22 year old kid. You'll his ups and his downs. He hit .300 in AA last season but he doesn't have much power while he could grow into it don't bank on it. He needs to work on his plate discipline while cutting down the strikeouts but he is fast and is a great defensive player. The ceiling for Jackson is a right handed poor man's Curtis Granderson. The great thing about him is he's 22, and will turn 23 before the season starts. Odds are he'll be your day to day starting center fielder in 2010.
So Tigers fans look at it this way. The Tigers have taken a step back this year because they're looking to cut costs and wait for players (Magglio, Guillen, Bonderman, Robertson and Willis) to come off the books and free up huge money. Granderson and Jackson were traded so the Tigers could try to give Verlander the big, long contract he deserves. The Tigers will compete for 3rd in 2010 but look for them to be strong in 2011 if and big if, but if they can gap the problems at 3rd and shortstop. Sometimes you make a step backwards to go forward.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
More Tigers Troubles.
The Tigers started the year with a payroll just over 115 millions dollars. The following players have help contribute to the issue the Tigers face with their payroll.
Gary Sheffield 9 million dollars *
Nate Robertson 7 mil
Dontrelle Willis 10 mil
Magglio Ordonez just under 19 mil
Carlos Guillen 10 mil
Jeremy Bonderman 12.5 mil
49 percent of our payroll goes to those last 5 guys, which is unreal considering how they've played. To be fair, Bonderman and Guillen have been hurt all year but it's still mind boggling how these big money makers have underperformed. All these guys are on the books for at least next year with some extending to 2011.
* Denotes that the Tigers still had to pay Sheffield 9 million dollars for cutting him, but was not part of the Opening Day payroll.
Gary Sheffield 9 million dollars *
Nate Robertson 7 mil
Dontrelle Willis 10 mil
Magglio Ordonez just under 19 mil
Carlos Guillen 10 mil
Jeremy Bonderman 12.5 mil
49 percent of our payroll goes to those last 5 guys, which is unreal considering how they've played. To be fair, Bonderman and Guillen have been hurt all year but it's still mind boggling how these big money makers have underperformed. All these guys are on the books for at least next year with some extending to 2011.
* Denotes that the Tigers still had to pay Sheffield 9 million dollars for cutting him, but was not part of the Opening Day payroll.
Are The Tigers Bound For a Fall?
Going into tonight's finale with St. Louis, the Tigers stand at 34-31 with a 1.5 game lead in the AL Central. They've currently lost four in a row and are 4-6 in their last 10 games. But this team is in some serious trouble and it's in more then one area.
Pitching: It's no secret that the Tigers have gotten outstanding pitching from Justin Verlander, Edwin Jackson and Rick Porcello. However, the back end of the rotation (Armando Galarraga and Dontrelle Willis) have been so bad that it cancels their work out. Galarraga hasn't won in his last 10 starts after starting out 3-0. His ERA has ballooned to a fat 5.56. His problem has been a combination of things. He fails to get ahead of hitters, his slider is hanging way too much which has lead to 14 home runs and fastball has been eratic at best. I'm not sure if this the dreaded sophomore slump or Galarraga coming back to Earth.
Willis has been well basically D-Trained since coming over in the trade in the winter before the '08 season. Now after his recent start of 3.2 innings pitched on Sunday which saw him give up 8 earned runs and 8 walks he's going back on the DL with more anxiety issues. The Tigers are bringing up 24 year-old Alfredo Figaro from Double A Erie to replace Willis but who knows what to expect from him. Figaro is 5-2 with a 4.10 ERA through 11 starts this year.
Lastly, Nate Robertson needs to be released. He proved last year he couldn't be a valuable starter and now he's proving he can't be a decent relief pitcher. Robertson is 1-0 in 18 appearances this season with a less than stellar ERA of 7.97. But releasing him would cost 7 million dollars. Trades will have to be the only option this year, which we'll explore later.
Hitting: Outside of Miguel Cabrera and Brandon Inge, Tigers' hitters are struggling. Yes Granderson has 16 home runs but he's hitting .264. Magglio Ordonez has hit an extreme power failure, with only 11 extra base hits through 57 games played. Placido Polanco is hitting a meager .259, he's hit near or above .300 since coming over a few years ago. Ramon Santiago, Adam Everett and Inge have all cooled off as of late. Gerald Laird a career .274 hitter is hitting .214. Good news is Marcus Thames is hitting .282 since coming off the DL, but how long until he cools off? If the Tigers don't start hitting and protecting Cabrera, he could be pitched around more which would be bad news for the Tigers.
Trade Possibilities: The Tigers desperately need a lefty in their rotation. Jarrod Washburn would be the cheapest and best bet. Outside of that I don't expect the Tigers to make any big moves for two reasons. They don't have to money to pay the big name guy right now and they don't have very many prospects. With Rick Porcello and Ryan Perry in the majors, their best prospect is Wilkin Ramirez who is expected to crack the lineup in 2010 or 2011 as Ordonez's replacement. And bad trades have left the cupboard bare. Don't expect to see Dusty Ryan or Scott Sizemore traded as they could be replacements for Polanco and Laird next year.
This leaves you with the following guys who could be traded: pitchers Brooks Brown, Casey Fien Charles Furbushand Jonah Nickerson. Hitters Mike Hessman, Will Rhymes, Jeff Frazier, Brent Clevlen, Alex Avila, Cale Iorg and Casper Wells.
Think the Tigers wish they still had Jair Jurrjens and Gorkys Hernandez?
Pitching: It's no secret that the Tigers have gotten outstanding pitching from Justin Verlander, Edwin Jackson and Rick Porcello. However, the back end of the rotation (Armando Galarraga and Dontrelle Willis) have been so bad that it cancels their work out. Galarraga hasn't won in his last 10 starts after starting out 3-0. His ERA has ballooned to a fat 5.56. His problem has been a combination of things. He fails to get ahead of hitters, his slider is hanging way too much which has lead to 14 home runs and fastball has been eratic at best. I'm not sure if this the dreaded sophomore slump or Galarraga coming back to Earth.
Willis has been well basically D-Trained since coming over in the trade in the winter before the '08 season. Now after his recent start of 3.2 innings pitched on Sunday which saw him give up 8 earned runs and 8 walks he's going back on the DL with more anxiety issues. The Tigers are bringing up 24 year-old Alfredo Figaro from Double A Erie to replace Willis but who knows what to expect from him. Figaro is 5-2 with a 4.10 ERA through 11 starts this year.
Lastly, Nate Robertson needs to be released. He proved last year he couldn't be a valuable starter and now he's proving he can't be a decent relief pitcher. Robertson is 1-0 in 18 appearances this season with a less than stellar ERA of 7.97. But releasing him would cost 7 million dollars. Trades will have to be the only option this year, which we'll explore later.
Hitting: Outside of Miguel Cabrera and Brandon Inge, Tigers' hitters are struggling. Yes Granderson has 16 home runs but he's hitting .264. Magglio Ordonez has hit an extreme power failure, with only 11 extra base hits through 57 games played. Placido Polanco is hitting a meager .259, he's hit near or above .300 since coming over a few years ago. Ramon Santiago, Adam Everett and Inge have all cooled off as of late. Gerald Laird a career .274 hitter is hitting .214. Good news is Marcus Thames is hitting .282 since coming off the DL, but how long until he cools off? If the Tigers don't start hitting and protecting Cabrera, he could be pitched around more which would be bad news for the Tigers.
Trade Possibilities: The Tigers desperately need a lefty in their rotation. Jarrod Washburn would be the cheapest and best bet. Outside of that I don't expect the Tigers to make any big moves for two reasons. They don't have to money to pay the big name guy right now and they don't have very many prospects. With Rick Porcello and Ryan Perry in the majors, their best prospect is Wilkin Ramirez who is expected to crack the lineup in 2010 or 2011 as Ordonez's replacement. And bad trades have left the cupboard bare. Don't expect to see Dusty Ryan or Scott Sizemore traded as they could be replacements for Polanco and Laird next year.
This leaves you with the following guys who could be traded: pitchers Brooks Brown, Casey Fien Charles Furbushand Jonah Nickerson. Hitters Mike Hessman, Will Rhymes, Jeff Frazier, Brent Clevlen, Alex Avila, Cale Iorg and Casper Wells.
Think the Tigers wish they still had Jair Jurrjens and Gorkys Hernandez?
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