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
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
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?
Friday, April 24, 2009
The 2009 Rod Allen Drinking Game
We've all had those days where we're watching the Tigers, enjoying some beers and are constantly trying to figure out how to make the games more fun. Well in honor of the greatest color commentary man ever, Rod Allen, my friends and I created the 2009 rules for the Rod Allen Drinking Game.
Here they are:
1 DRINK:
When Rod says “Mario” or “pat-nah.”
3 DRINKS:
When Rod says "without question."
When Rod says "predictable count(s)."
When Rod says "pull field."
When Rod says “elevated.”
When Rod says “skipper.”
5 DRINKS:
When Rod makes any kind of reference to someone making adjustments.
» Double if he is referencing a coach.
When Rod makes any kind of reference to a player or his ability being “special.”
When Rod says the phrase “Oh no he didn’t.”
When Rod says the phrase “from time to time.”
When Rod says “cheese.”
When Rod says “features,” “featuring” or “featured.”
When Rod refers to Jim Leyland as a “beauty.”
When Rod says “filthy.”
When Rod refers to RBIs as "rib eye steaks."
When Rod repeats a statement or point he made earlier in the game.
When Rod says "He's just money", referring to his favorite player Placido Polanco.
When Rod says Marcus Thames is “country strong”, double if anyone else.
When Rod says: "They bring their lunch pails to the ballpark", referring to a player who works hard.
When Rod says: "You can't sneak a piece of cheese by a rat." Referring to a Tiger hitting a home run after being thrown a fastball.
When Rod says: "Covers a lot of real estate." Referring to an outfielder making a good catch.
7 DRINKS:
When Rod mentions Tiger awards from past seasons
» Miggy winning the Home Run title, Granderson’s 20-20-20-20 or Verlander's no-hitter.
When Rod says someone is scuffling.
Whenever Rod says he talked to someone at batting practice.
When Rod says the phrase “professional hitter.”
When Rod says "Get the married men off the infield." After a screaming line drive.
When Rod says "Get down with your bad self." When a Tiger makes a good play or hits a big home run.
8 DRINKS:
When Rod makes reference to his coaching/broadcasting career in Arizona.
When Rod makes reference to Rick Knapp’s influence on the young pitching staff.
Whenever Rod makes the statement “some kind of _____.” (IE: Some kind of smooth)
Whenever Rod talks about the benefit to a defense when a young pitcher works quickly.
When Rod says "A long, long time."
10 DRINKS:
When Rod describes baseball as chess on grass.
When Rod asks Mario if he worked out today.
» Double if he asks this during a home game.
When Rod makes reference to cotton candy.
» Double if he makes reference to pink cotton candy.
When Rod makes reference to how much fun Cabrera is having. » Drink double if it is anyone else.
When Rod makes reference to Cabrera's shoes.
When Rod makes reference to the Carlos Guillen trade, the Cabrera/Willis trade or the Josh Anderson trade.
When Rod says the phrase “game within the game.”
When Rod says the phrase, “the unintentional, intentional walk.”
When Rod makes reference to how “smooth” any of the Tiger middle infielders are. » Drink double if it is anyone else.
When Rod says "Uncle Charlie", while Verlander is pitching.
When Rod mentions "Mr. Snappy", while Bonderman is pitching.
12 DRINKS:
When Rod makes reference to his playing career. *Rod only had about 50 career ABs, 20 with the Tigers.
20 DRINKS:
When the footage of Rod charging the mound in Japan is shown.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSxFl3le25o
General Sillyness: 2 drinks can be awarded for Rod's general sillyness. General sillyness can be Rod laughing uncontrollably or making loud screaming noises. Or anything the group may deem silly.
*It should be noted we did not create the game, we simply just updated the rules.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
MLB Playoff s
I predict the Cubs and Phillies to meet in the NLCS with the Cubs going to the World Series while the Rays and Yankees meeting in the ALCS. The Cubs knock off the Phils in 6 while the Yanks beat the Rays in 5 ultimately leading to the Cubs and deadline acquired Jake Peavy beating the Yankees in 7 snapping their 101 year long drought.
MLB Breakdown #6
For the last division I saved the AL Central in which my beloved Detroit Tigers play. While many expect them to finish last again, I just don't see it but nor will my homer feelings allow me to say they'll win the Central, they just won't. But here's my breakdown:
1. Chicago White Sox (90-72) - The Chicago White Sox will once again win the Central in a close race yet again. They have one of the strongest rotations with a strong lineup which is why they'll win the Central. The White Sox blew few games in the late innings due to a strong bullpen much of the pen is intact for this year. Factor in Dye, Thome, Konerko and Quentin with youngsters Alexi Ramirez, Josh Fields and Chris Getz and this team should find themselves back in the playoffs.
2. Minnesota Twins (87-75) - The Twins took the White Sox to a one game playoff for the Central last year and they'll be runner ups again this year. The Twins starters were the best last year at not walking hitters, which is why they played 163 games. A fifth starter has not been named yet what with Boof Bonser and Scott Baker being placed on the DL along with Joe Mauer who has no return date in sight. Joe Crede's iffy back might not hold up so well playing 81 games on a turf surface, not the friendliest of surfaces for those with bad backs. Carlos Gomez should become one of the game's premier leadoff men this year.
3. Detroit Tigers (81-81) - This team potentially could be a dangerous team if the right combination of players stay healthy. Carlos Guillen, Magglio Ordonez and Miguel Cabrera are three guys Detroit needs to stay healthy if they plan to finish higher then third. Justin Verlander, Armando Galarraga and Edwin Jackson need to remain healthy as well. Once Jeremy Bonderman regains velocity look for Zach Miner or rookie phenom Rick Porcello to exit the rotation. The downfall of this team will be the same as last year, their bullpen and closer. Fernando Rodney beat out Brandon Lyon for the closer job but don't be surprised if 7th inning set up guy Ryan Perry is trying his hand at closing out games in September. Guys to watch: Cabrera, Curtis Granderson, Ryan Perry and Rick Porcello.
4. Cleveland Indians (79-83) - Cliff Lee was dominating last year, but can he do it again this year? I suspect he will since his contract runs up and Cleveland likely won't be able to afford this game changing lefty, see C.C. Sabathia. Grady Sizemore gets some help from Mark DeRosa and Victor Martinez but they won't be enough. The back three in the rotation are not exactly proven and the bullpen has some holes in it too. Kerry Wood will spend more games on the DL then he will saving them. Sizemore is primed for a great year.
5. Kansas City Royals (75-87) - Gil Meche and Zach Greinke will be solid pitchers this year for KC, it's the rest of their rotation that worries me. They plenty of potenital all over the field; Alex Gordon, Mark Teahen, Mike Aviles, Matt Jacobs, David DeJesus, Jose Guillen. The queston is can they be productive at the same time, my answer is no. They have a talented bullpen too but I don't know if their starters will be able to give them enough leads to hold for wins. Look for Gordon, Teahen and Jacobs to be productive this year.
1. Chicago White Sox (90-72) - The Chicago White Sox will once again win the Central in a close race yet again. They have one of the strongest rotations with a strong lineup which is why they'll win the Central. The White Sox blew few games in the late innings due to a strong bullpen much of the pen is intact for this year. Factor in Dye, Thome, Konerko and Quentin with youngsters Alexi Ramirez, Josh Fields and Chris Getz and this team should find themselves back in the playoffs.
2. Minnesota Twins (87-75) - The Twins took the White Sox to a one game playoff for the Central last year and they'll be runner ups again this year. The Twins starters were the best last year at not walking hitters, which is why they played 163 games. A fifth starter has not been named yet what with Boof Bonser and Scott Baker being placed on the DL along with Joe Mauer who has no return date in sight. Joe Crede's iffy back might not hold up so well playing 81 games on a turf surface, not the friendliest of surfaces for those with bad backs. Carlos Gomez should become one of the game's premier leadoff men this year.
3. Detroit Tigers (81-81) - This team potentially could be a dangerous team if the right combination of players stay healthy. Carlos Guillen, Magglio Ordonez and Miguel Cabrera are three guys Detroit needs to stay healthy if they plan to finish higher then third. Justin Verlander, Armando Galarraga and Edwin Jackson need to remain healthy as well. Once Jeremy Bonderman regains velocity look for Zach Miner or rookie phenom Rick Porcello to exit the rotation. The downfall of this team will be the same as last year, their bullpen and closer. Fernando Rodney beat out Brandon Lyon for the closer job but don't be surprised if 7th inning set up guy Ryan Perry is trying his hand at closing out games in September. Guys to watch: Cabrera, Curtis Granderson, Ryan Perry and Rick Porcello.
4. Cleveland Indians (79-83) - Cliff Lee was dominating last year, but can he do it again this year? I suspect he will since his contract runs up and Cleveland likely won't be able to afford this game changing lefty, see C.C. Sabathia. Grady Sizemore gets some help from Mark DeRosa and Victor Martinez but they won't be enough. The back three in the rotation are not exactly proven and the bullpen has some holes in it too. Kerry Wood will spend more games on the DL then he will saving them. Sizemore is primed for a great year.
5. Kansas City Royals (75-87) - Gil Meche and Zach Greinke will be solid pitchers this year for KC, it's the rest of their rotation that worries me. They plenty of potenital all over the field; Alex Gordon, Mark Teahen, Mike Aviles, Matt Jacobs, David DeJesus, Jose Guillen. The queston is can they be productive at the same time, my answer is no. They have a talented bullpen too but I don't know if their starters will be able to give them enough leads to hold for wins. Look for Gordon, Teahen and Jacobs to be productive this year.
MLB Breakdown #5
Well people we're about 5 hours away from seeing Brett Myers throw the first pitch of the MLB season. And I'm two divisions away from finishing this breakdown. So onward we go, and it's over the AL East. This is one of the most interesting divisions, you have the big time, no limit spenders in the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox but now you also have one of the little guys giving them a run for their money in Tampa Bay. Shocking the country by winning the division last year, can the Rays recapture last year's magic? Or will the ridiculous spendings made in the offseason pay off for the Yankees and Sox? One thing is for sure the AL Wild Card is coming out of the East, book it.
1. New York Yankees (98-64) - The Yankees spent almost half a billion dollars on C.C. Sabathia, A.J. Burnett and Mark Teixeira. The Yankees have a lot of pressure on them what with all the money being spent on free agents to win and their new stadium opening up this year but that's why they're the Yankees that's why they play in New York. They will be without A-Rod for the first two months or so but he'll come back and be A-Rod as usual. However this team like many won't succeed if they can't stay healthy. Look for Sabathia and Big Tex to have a good season but I'm not so sure Burnett and his elbow will make it through the year, paving the way for Phil Hughes to return. The Yanks will be back in October this year.
2. Tampa Bay Rays (94-68) - The Rays won't be sneaking up on anyone this year but they are good. Reigning rookie of the year, Evan Longoria is primed for another big year with table setters BJ Upton and Carl Crawford ready to bust out for big seasons, especially since Crawford is in a contract year. With uber stud David Price going to triple-A to work on his changeup, look for Jeff Niemann or Jason Hammel to take over the number 5 gig for now but I have a feeling Price will get that job before the season is over. Troy Percival returns as the closer but he's basically the walking wounded, I expect to see either JP Howell or Grant Balfour take over the closer role.
3. Boston Red Sox (92-70) - Boston wasn't the same team without Manny Ramirez last year and they won't be this year either. Jason Bay is a great player, but he's no Manny Ramirez and it'll come back to cost them the Wild Card. Jon Lester is one of the best left handed starters in the game and could win 20 games this year. The backend of this rotation worries me; Tim Wakefield, Brad Penny and John Smoltz(once back from rehab) are not what they use to be. David Ortiz and Jason Varitek are getting old along with Mike Lowell. This team is likely to be using their minor league options quite a bit and it will eventually lead to them missing the playoffs.
4. Toronto Blue Jays (72-90) - Things won't be getting much better the for the Blue Jays anytime soon and JP Rincardi might be out of a job by year's end. Roy Halladay who is always a contender for Cy Young should be moved around the deadline for much needed prospects. Vernon Wells and Alex Rios could also be moved if the right deal comes along, same for now set-up man BJ Ryan who lost his job to Scott Downs. After Halladay, the rotation is young and inexperienced but they do have some offensive fire power. The Jays did a fine job of winning games that they led into the 7th and later last year, but I don't think the Jays starters will give them as many chances this year.
5. Baltimore Orioles (69-93) - The Orioles have a ton of young talent on this team, none better then Matt Wieters, rookie catcher from Georgia Tech. They also have Adam Jones who they received in the Bedard trade and hopeful of youngster Felix Pie. Then they have veterans Aubrey Huff and Brian Roberts who could be moved if the right deals come along. Baltimore needs pitching to help these talented youngsters out down the road. Jeremy Guthrie and George Sherrill are Baltimore's best pitchers, first a starter and latter a closer. This team is a long ways away from contention but keep an eye on Wieters and Jones in the fantasy world.
1. New York Yankees (98-64) - The Yankees spent almost half a billion dollars on C.C. Sabathia, A.J. Burnett and Mark Teixeira. The Yankees have a lot of pressure on them what with all the money being spent on free agents to win and their new stadium opening up this year but that's why they're the Yankees that's why they play in New York. They will be without A-Rod for the first two months or so but he'll come back and be A-Rod as usual. However this team like many won't succeed if they can't stay healthy. Look for Sabathia and Big Tex to have a good season but I'm not so sure Burnett and his elbow will make it through the year, paving the way for Phil Hughes to return. The Yanks will be back in October this year.
2. Tampa Bay Rays (94-68) - The Rays won't be sneaking up on anyone this year but they are good. Reigning rookie of the year, Evan Longoria is primed for another big year with table setters BJ Upton and Carl Crawford ready to bust out for big seasons, especially since Crawford is in a contract year. With uber stud David Price going to triple-A to work on his changeup, look for Jeff Niemann or Jason Hammel to take over the number 5 gig for now but I have a feeling Price will get that job before the season is over. Troy Percival returns as the closer but he's basically the walking wounded, I expect to see either JP Howell or Grant Balfour take over the closer role.
3. Boston Red Sox (92-70) - Boston wasn't the same team without Manny Ramirez last year and they won't be this year either. Jason Bay is a great player, but he's no Manny Ramirez and it'll come back to cost them the Wild Card. Jon Lester is one of the best left handed starters in the game and could win 20 games this year. The backend of this rotation worries me; Tim Wakefield, Brad Penny and John Smoltz(once back from rehab) are not what they use to be. David Ortiz and Jason Varitek are getting old along with Mike Lowell. This team is likely to be using their minor league options quite a bit and it will eventually lead to them missing the playoffs.
4. Toronto Blue Jays (72-90) - Things won't be getting much better the for the Blue Jays anytime soon and JP Rincardi might be out of a job by year's end. Roy Halladay who is always a contender for Cy Young should be moved around the deadline for much needed prospects. Vernon Wells and Alex Rios could also be moved if the right deal comes along, same for now set-up man BJ Ryan who lost his job to Scott Downs. After Halladay, the rotation is young and inexperienced but they do have some offensive fire power. The Jays did a fine job of winning games that they led into the 7th and later last year, but I don't think the Jays starters will give them as many chances this year.
5. Baltimore Orioles (69-93) - The Orioles have a ton of young talent on this team, none better then Matt Wieters, rookie catcher from Georgia Tech. They also have Adam Jones who they received in the Bedard trade and hopeful of youngster Felix Pie. Then they have veterans Aubrey Huff and Brian Roberts who could be moved if the right deals come along. Baltimore needs pitching to help these talented youngsters out down the road. Jeremy Guthrie and George Sherrill are Baltimore's best pitchers, first a starter and latter a closer. This team is a long ways away from contention but keep an eye on Wieters and Jones in the fantasy world.
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