The Pirates are upset at their firesale... thankfully they don't make the decisions

"It's funny, but Nyjer and I knew this was going to happen," Sean Burnett said last night from Milwaukee, shortly after hearing that the Pirates continued their trading binge by sending away John Grabow and Tom Gorzelanny. "They're the laughingstock of baseball right now. They've gotten rid of everybody. They won't keep anybody around. Some of the guys here, they don't understand it, but Nyjer and I knew this was coming."

LaRoche complained a few weeks before he was traded. Some other scrub whined too.

And you know, I totally agree. Why are the Pirates selling so many essential pieces of their franchise? Why is this perennial 96-win team in the middle of a firesale? Why are they trading such superstars as Nyjer Morgan and Adam LaRoche for prospects for the future?

OH WAIT. THEY AREN'T BECAUSE THE PIRATES ARE FUCKING TERRIBLE. 

Maybe if they were better than 5th place in the worst fucking division in baseball I would understand the players' concerns. But they aren't better than 5th. They're awful. And the players they had clearly weren't working out.

I'm sorry, Sean Brunett (by the way - who the fuck are you, you scrub?). I'm sorry that you and your buddies who were bad at baseball were traded away for players who have the potential to be much better than you at baseball. It's almost like... you don't understand how trades are supposed to work.

Here's how the Pirates are shaping up:

2011 Pirates
C Jorge Sanchez
1B Jeff Clement/Steve Pearce
2B Argenis Diaz
SS Miguel Angel Sano (maybe? they're the frontrunners)
3B Pedro Alvarez
LF Lastings Milledge
CF Andrew McCutchen
RF Jose Tabata
Bench Gorkys Hernandez
SP Paul Maholm
SP Zach Duke
SP Timmy Alderson

Add in the fact that they're going to get at least two top-3 picks in the draft, with a shot at high-school phenom Bryce Harper? Yeah, they're gonna be good.

No matter how you slice it, if those players live up to even 75% of their potential, that's a team that can win the NL Central (assuming Albert Pujols doesn't hit 120 homeruns that season - which is totally possible).

Now a lot of people are going to slam them for not keeping their all-stars like Jason Bay or Nate McLouth. When it's clear that those two players would not have carried them to the postseason in 2009 or even 2010, it would be foolish to keep them when they know they're not helping out the overall plan. Especially knowing that in a few short months they'd demand way more money than Pittsburgh has. So they did what was right and they traded them for a piece of 2011. In the Bay trade, at least, they didn't get a great return, though. But that's baseball - some trades are winners, some are losers.

If the Pirates don't contend in two years, I'll be totally prepared to eat my words - and all the little bitches on their team whining - but until then, let's look at what they did at the deadline for what it really was - a complete overhaul of the system.

Trade Deadline

Many deals went done. Peavy is on the White Sox again. Victor Martinez is a Red Sox along with Kotchman. Orlando Cabrera is a twin. Washburn a Tiger and relievers went team from team.
Winner
Red Sox- when they aquired Adam LaRoche no one batted an eye but after swapping him for a potential Gold Glover in Casey Kotchman its a good trade. Kotchman hasnt developed the power he was once considered to have but he brings a sure glove and a nice steady stroke. His HRs should increase with Peskys pole and should be a doubles machine. Also getting V Martinez for mid level prospects is great.

Mariners- they added Jack Wilson and Ian Snell for former first round pick Jeff Clement and B prospects. Wilson solidifies SS and Snell is a potential star if he figures his control out. They traded Jarred Washburn to the Tigers for LHPs Luke French and Mauricio Robles. Both are young pitchers with extreme potential and Washburn is in his final year of his contract and playing above his head

White Sox- add Peavy to a rotation with Buerhle, Danks, Floyd, and Contreras.

Padres- unload a large contract for two future front line Pitchers in Clay Richards and Aaron Poreda along with two other b prospects.

Indians- unloaded probably two of there better players in Lee and Martinez but landed about a dozens prospects in return. C Lou Marson should be there starter next year along with SS John Donald, and RHP Carlos Carrasco who they got in the Lee deal. The received hard sinker baller Justin Masterson and two other pitchers. They freed up a lot of money two and could be active this offseason

Orioles- they already have a young team with a stacked young outfielder and good pitchers in their system. they traded George Sherril for top 3b prospect Josh Bell and also received RHP Steve Johnson.

Giants- they have the best starters ERA and needed more offense and added it with Freddy Sanchez and Ryan Garko while keeping their top prospects.

Losers
Rays- needed to add another bat but got beat to the punch by Boston

Reds- WTF were they thinking. They basically dump Jerry Hairston to the Yanks. Dont get rid of Arroyos huge contract then trade one of the best young players Edwin Encarnacian for aging 3B Scott Rolen. They have no idea what their doing.

Dodgers- sure they got a good lefty for there bullpen but gave up their top infield prospect in the process

Pirates- Wilson, Sanchez, LaRoche, Snell, Grabow, etc. They traded basically their entire startering lineup from opening day. They received some good players but most are gambles still in A or AA.

Tigers- gave up two top prospects for a pitcher in his final year and playing completely over his head

Recent trades

Phillies- add Cliff Lee w/o giving up any of their 3 top prospects. Still could add Halladay though unlikely but that would be scary. They would control both contracts beyond this year and could trade Meyers for a prospect to clear up money and let one of them walk after next year and re-coup some draft picks.

Mariners- traded Jeff Clement. Ronny Cedeno and three mid level pitchers for Jack Wilson and Ian Snell. Jack Wilson is very good and very underrated plus he has an option for next year at 8 mill and Ian Snell was the Pirates best pitcher a few years ago and at 25 is still very young. He struggled earlier but a change of scenery is just what he needs. They are on the verge of contending but this trade also helps then for next season.

Trading Needs

Yankees- need bullpen help and a fifth starter. Reds, Pirates, and D-Backs are all teams in play. Reds would love to unload Arroyos large contract but would have to throw in Weathers or another reliever.

Red Sox- always looking for offense but unwilling to part with top prospects like the Yankees. Dont really see them landing anyone unless Pads come lower for Adrian Gonzalez.

Rays- more likely sellers than buyers but Kazmirs velocity has dropped and teams dont wanna eat his contract.

Tigers- unless they move Ordonez they wont take on salary.

Twins- really need a second basemen and Freddy Sanchez is a perfect fit.

White Sox- Pitching, they have a ton of young pitching and surprised they havent got in the Halladay sweepstakes. Could be satisfied with Poreda and Richards.

Angels- they love pitching but dont want to sell the farm for Halladay or Lee. Washburn wont go in division. Zach Duke and Ian Snell are interesting choices and might come relatively cheap. Kazmir is another option but dont want to take on his salary.

Rangers- have inquired about Halladay but nothing more. V-Mart would be a great fit for them even only as a rental.

Mariners- with Bedard on the DL the white flag is up. Washburn, Branyan, Silva, and Batista are all up for grabs

Phillies- Halladay is their guy and its a starring contest with the Jays. They blink on the 31st and give the Jays Dominic Brown, Kyle Drabek, and they get Halladay

Braves- added McLouth earlier in the year and have fielded offers on Escobar. Think he will stay put as will the Braves.

Marlins- Ross and Uggla are names that have been mentioned look to SF to give them a good offer

Cubs- spent a lot of money cant see them adding more

St. Louis- added DeRosa and Holliday, they stay put.

Houston- dont see them really adding though they could use another arm.

Brewers- They will be gunshy unless they can control him beyond this year. Lee or Halladay though they might not want to meet the criteria.

Reds- sellers Arroyo, Harang, and Cordero are available for the right price

Dodgers- could make a push for Kazmir though they havent even talked.

Giants- need a bat at second base. Uggla, Sanchez are possibilities.

Rockies- added Betancourt but want another. Qualls and Sherril are possibilities.

One Week from the Trade Deadline

The big names are known - Hallday, Cliff Lee, and Victor Martinez - so I'll look at some of the smaller names being thrown around.

Scott Kazmir - It seems like the Rays have half given up on Kaz. Somewhere along the road, his injuries caught up with him and it's not looking like it's going to be easy to get back to those 2006 numbers. It's a shame, because he still has absolutely filthy stuff, but his velocity has slowly lowered and his control has gotten worse every year. Blame it on injuries, blame it on 4 different pitching coaches in his young career, blame it on whatever, Kaz may need just a change of scenery. The only problem is... he was offered a pretty substantial contract by TB last year. If the Rays trade him - and the Angels are checking him out as an option - it won't be for much except a contract dump. Don't expect a big return. It would merely be to free up space for another move.

Erik Bedard - Bedard is really, really good and really, really underrated. Seattle is begging for a shorstop to last them for a long time. I've seen it thrown around a ton, and still see it as the only perfect trade fit in the Majors this year: Reid Brignac + a B-level prospect for Bedard. The Rays are being killed by inconsistent starting pitching. If a Kazmir deal gets done, especially, Bedard would be even more of a perfect fit. Brignac hasn't done much at the Major League level but he has consistently torn up the minors and is still the top shortstop prospect in the Majors. He's young, cheap, and great defensively, and Seattle would love to have that position stabilized for the next 5+ years.

Nick Johnson - The only real name anyone's hearing attached to Johnson's name is Boston. Then again, they did just acquire LaRoche, so maybe this deal is dead in the water. On the other hand, LaRoche sucks, Lowell is not a great option right now and won't exactly improve as time goes on. Johnson happens to play the worst first base in the majors, but I think Boston won't mind the defensive hit when he's putting up a line of .302/.412/.417. That frees them up to move Youk to third, split Ortiz and Lowell at DH, sub in Lowell whenever Youk or Johnson needs an off day. Seems like a no brainer for Boston, especially for a team as desparate for offensive help as they are. Asking price may be a little steep though considering he's one of like 7 good players Washington owns.

Jarrod Washburn - The funny thing about Washburn is that he hasn't really improved at all so some team is going to get totally fleeced by Seattle and take a flyer on this guy. He's playing behind an amazing OF defense for the first time in his career. He's also 35, playing in his 12th season, and all of a sudden having a career year... strike anyone else as a little odd? He's getting extremely lucky this year and if someone wants to throw the bank at him and hope his luck continues, go for it. Seattle has made some terrible trades in the past few years but this one could go their way.

Marco Scutaro - Typical Billy Beane prospect. Finally given a chance to start and he's done nothing but show off a ridiculous OBP and pretty decent power numbers. The Blue Jays are obviously sellers and a team like Seattle or Boston could bite on this, although the Jays will be hesitant to trade in-division.

New Holiday in St. Louis

After adding Mark DeRosa a few weeks back it filled there vacany at 3B and essentially blocked 3B prospect Bret Wallace. Well earlier today he along with with two other prospects were used to aquire Matt Holiday from the A's.

This is a win for the Cards who now have protection for Pujols with Holliday and takes the pressure off Ryan Ludwick who came be moved down and see more fastballs. Not only support for Albert but OF depth in whick they can platoon Duncan, Ankiel, and Rasmus. They have gone from division contenders to World Series contenders

Holliday has seen his numbers decline this year and many think he was a Coors field product. This is falsr, recently he has been on a tear and is now batting .286 with 11 homers and 52 RBIs playing in the planet of a field in Oakland. Him going back to the National League and a smaller field should boost his numbers

The Legend that was Kimbo

Nothing but time has passed as his so called fifteen minutes of fame began to dim. It wsa the jab heard round the world. The pink haired guy Seth Petruzzeli TKO'd Kimbo and his legend.

We thought he dissappeared and went back to whatever he did before, sell rocks, fight at BBQs, be a body guard on pornsites. Turns out he never gave up on his dream. Training underBas Rutten this team is nothing but a benefit. He started his MMA career in the limelight and now he reappears there but on a reality show. He is on this season of The Ultimate Fighter.

Now he got dropped by Seth but he spent months training for a fight vs Ken Shamrock. Training submission defense and de-humanizing his opponent. The day of the fight he is told Shamrock wont be able to fight your fighting Petrezzeli, a majority unknown fighter once in the UFC who was hungry and nothing to lose.

NL Central

This division is going to be a dog fight until the end with the Brewers, Cards, Stros, Cubs, and Reds all within 6 games

Reds- in there ballpark they can score runs and there offense puts up runs with there young team. Votto, Phillips, Bruce, and Encarnation have been putting up runs. Edwin was down most of the year but is back on a tear just as Bruce goes down. Injuries have hit them hard but Hanigan Harnish, Rosales, Nix, and Gomes have helped keep them a float. If they can stay close and get healthy they could make a run

Starting pitching is above average for a team that plays in a fan box for a ball park. Cueto and Harang are good pitchers and Arroyo could find his old form. Volquez will be back and help stablilize the rotation.

Bullpen is amazing and the strongest part of the team Weathers has the highest ERA and its 3.16

Offense- B
Starters- C+
Bullpen- A+

Cubs- if you look up inconsistency in the dictionary you see them. Soriano, Bradley, Fontenot, and Soto have been dissapointing. Ramirez and Lee are the big pop and Theriot is the spark plug. Soriano is bound to heat up and Bradley is getting hot the offense can come around Hoffpaur and Fox are helping turn it around

Starters have been good despite injuries to Harden and Dempster. Big Z and Lilly are the stabilizers. Randy Wells and Kevin Hart are surprises and Harden is due to come around.

Bullpen is doing good but has its downs too. Guzman, Marshall, Gregg, and Marmol have been good but Heilman, and Samardija have struggled
Offense- B
Starters- A-
Bullpen- B+

Astros- usually the make a run late but this year they started early. Berkman has gotten hot to pair with the rejuvenated Tejada, Carlos Lee, Pence, and Bourn

Starters- they have Oswalt and Wandy Rodriquez but aside them they are average

Bullpen- there bullpen is strong with Arias, Hawkins, and Valverde along with lefty Byrdak

Offense: A
Starters: C+
Bullpen: A

Brewers- offensively they put up runs with Braun, Fielder, Hart, McGehee, and Cameron. Even with Hardy and Hall having down years and Weeks out for the year they put up runs.

Starters- aside from Gallardo they are woeful
Bullpen-Aside from Villanueva there bullpen has been great and Hoffman has drunk from the fountain of youth

Offense: B+
Starters: C-
Bullpen: A-

Cardinals- Albert Pujols. Enough said. Ludwick, Molina, and Shumacher are the only other players hitting and when Albert starts getting walked they could be in trouble

Starter- Tony LaRussa always finds a way to put starters together. Pinerio, Wainwright, and Carpenter have been dominant.

Bullpen-Franklin has been lights out and Miller and McClellan

Offense: B
Starters: A-
Bullpen: B-


Prediction: I think the Astros take the division by one game

NFL Sack NFC South

This seems to always be a very competetive division and I see the same thing again this year

Panthers- they added LB Landon Johnson and drafted DE Everrette Brown to pair with Peppers
Strenghths- there rushing attck is lethal and they play great D and of course Steve Smith
Weaknesses- Other WR production, someone needs to step up to take the pressure of Steve Smith and also need to be consistent
Prediction- they win the division

Saints- they added DT Rod Coleman, FS Darren Sharper, CB Leigh Torrence, and FB Heath Evans. They drafted DB Macolm Jenkins to help ther secondary but lost HB Deuce McAllister
Strengths- Offense especially passing. Pierre Thomas should fill in for Deuce nicely and Brees will light up Defenses. There front seven are strong and DC Gregg Williams should be heavy blitzes to cover the hole sin the secondary
Weaknesses- Secondary, while they added a lot of help Sharper is getting old Jenkins is a rookie but hopefully Gregg Williams doesnt give opposing QBs time to throw
Prediction- after battling throughout the year and beating up on their own division they finish 9-7 looking outside of the playoffs

Falcons- they lost LB Boley and Brooking, CB Dominique Foxworth, and SS Lawyer Milloy. They did add TE Tony Gonzalez, LBs Stephen Nicholas and Mike Peterson and drafted DT Peria Jerry and S William Moore.
Strengths- their offense is there strength with RBs Turner and Norwood and Pass catchers White, Jenkins, and Gonzalez. John Abraham wreaks havoc on QBs
Weaknesses- they lost a lot of pieces of that D and dont have a DE to compliment Abraham
Prediction- they play hard and tough but finish third in the division

Bucs- they decided to build from the ground up the cut vets like Gallaway, Brooks, Kelly, and Carter. With the most cap room they didnt do to much to improve. They added QB Byron Leftwhich, RB Derrick Ward (both who were products of good teams with good O-Lines), TE Kellen Winslow, and LB Angelo Crowell. They drafted Josh Freeman? to go with there 12 other QBs and have decided to move Jermaine Phillips to LB.
Strengths- their offense as long as the line holds up and there Defense is still in ok shape
Weaknesses- they lost a lot of veteran leadership drafted Freeman way to early have more QBs than any other team and need another pass rusher. We will also see how the Phillips experiment works
Prediction- Last

the KO on MMA

UFC has some big bouts coming up Lightweight and Light Heavy weight titles along with the Spider returng to the LHW division.

Lyoto Machida is the most elusive fighter in MMA right now. He avoids damage throws combos and gets outta trouble. You cant take him down yet he will take you down. He is the cream of the crop and want to see him vs Rampage even though Rampage will get knocked out

BJ Penn had a very bad lose to GSP but I believe he will bouce back and beat Kenny Florian. Penn is stronger and I think has better BJJ.

Speaking of GSP I thought Thiago Alves would KO him but Georges is in the Silva, Machida, and Lesnar category. I dont see them losing. Though I do see Alves getting a rematch next year and Anthony Rumble Johnson getting a title shot at the end of the year or early next year. He is a wrestling and has scary standup should be a fun fight

Now one of my favorite fights of the year is coming up when Forrest Griffin takes on Anderson the Spider Silva. Forrest has that brawler mentality and the heart like no other but he has gotten smarter as a fighter and I think he has a shot at beating Silva. Griffin can take an ass whoopin and like Anderson Silva is huge. This is going to be an absolute slug fest. I think Griffin loses by split decision even though im puliing for him. I think he can very well press the fight and deliver damage and as long as he doesnt slip up can out point the Spider

Now as far as Silva goes he says he wont fight Machida cuz they are friends but these too are on a path to do so. Also GSP vs Silva is another fight on the Horizon if he beats both he is the best fighter in the history of MMA

Halladay or Holliday

Who would you rather have a middle of the order bat or or an ace pitcher. Well Halladay is dominant so probably him but Holliday is having trouble in Oaklands huge ass park.

Halladay- I cant see him staying with them. The Jays are probably going to trade Rios to the Giants. A reliable source has told me that the Yanks and Jays are in heated discussions. Allegedly it involves Halladay and Vernon Wells for Melky Cabrera, top prospects OFAustin Jackson and C Jesus Montero. The hang up is the Jays want Joba or Hughes and the Yanks would budge they are offering RHP Andrew Brackman and or RHP Alan Horne. Another hang up is Wells is due 63 million dollars over the next 4 years I believe? and the Yanks want the Jays to pay half his contract I believe the Yanks will eat the cash cuz they always do but it all depends if they Jays will take the two prospects instead of Hughes or Chamberlain. The Angels, Phillies, and Dodgers are all involved and dont be surprised if both Sox get involved to at least raise the price

Holliday- his numbers have decreased significantly cuz he went from Coors to Oakland understandable but Billy Beane wants three prospects and two being top tier. Most likely Holliday stays put is not offered arbitration and signs else where. In case you dont know according to the the players rules if he signs before Jan 12th you get a compensation pick and two sometimes. Beane loves draft picks and will most likely stay

A little rebuttle to AL East

This is a great division the O's are young and have talent swarming, the Blue Jays are tough and hanging around an the Sox, Yanks, and Rays are battling for essentially two playoff spots. Unlike my colleague Mike I know bullpens and closers and probably the most important thing to have especially down the stretch and in the playoffs. Ask the Mets recently, or the Braves in the 90's. Or the Angels when K-Rod exploded on the scene.

Yankees
Offense- they are putting up runs despite A-Rods injury and slump and Texs slow start. If you think A-Rod will struggle all year you are retarded and Texeira is known for his second halfs. Cano is stroking and is also a second half player and with New Yankees Stadium the new Coors Field they will lead the league in runs. Gardner is a burner and was a top prospect in their farm and expect him to continue to hit. While Swisher has come back to Earth he is a good locker room guy. And of course Jeter will hit and hit

Starters- Despite early struggles Burnett and Sabathia are looking like the money the were paid. CC is known for being lights out after the All Star break ask the Brewers and Burnett isnt so bad himself look throughout his career. Joba is finally pitching Longer and with his velocity despite idiots aying he lost it. No you cant throw 100 mph for 7 innings. Pettite is a work horse and Mitre is called up to take the fifth spot

Bullpen- Hughes and Aceves have been great outta the pen and will continue to be used as set up. Coke is serviceable for a lefty and the rest is awful/

Offense- A+
Pitching- A-
Bullpen- C+ (only cuz of Mo)
Prediction Win AL Beast with a strong second half
Red Sox
Offensively Youk, Ellsbury, Bay, and Pedroia are carry them. Aside from them they are old and injury prone wouldnt be surprised if they shake it up before the deadline

Starting Pitching is there good and extremely deep. Beckett and Lester lead the way Buchholtz is back in the Bigs. Wakefield has the knuckler and Penny and Smoltz. Dice K is on the DL too

Bullpen-there Bullpen might be the best in the bigs maybe behind the Dodgers. Bard, Delcarmen, Ramirez, Papelbon all have ERAs under 2.5, get strikeouts and throw gas. Okajima get out lefties and Masterson is a decent long reliever

Offense- B-
Starters- A-
Bullpen A+
Prediction- they win the wild card barely over the Rays

Rays
Offensively they hang with the best. Zobrist is playing over his head and will come down but Upton will get hot to pick up. Bartlett is a career .285 hitter and he will drop off offensively but provides a solid glove to make up for it. Longoria ,Crawford, and Pena are there studs and need to carry them

Starting Pitching is there strength good and young. Garza, Shields, and Nieman have ERAs under four. Kazmir has too much talent to struggle all year and Price is going through growing pains which all young pitchers do (except Lincecum)

Bullpen is mediocre. Howell is great and Cormier has been a surprise but aside from them they are woeful. Sure Randy Choate has a good ERA and has been pitching well but he only has thrown 14 innings. Wheeler is above average but Nelson, Balfour, and Bradford are not impressive

Offense- A-
Starters- A+
Bullpen- C
prediction unless they add a Matt Capps or another good reliever I think alot of quality starts get wasted with blown saves. They keep it close but are the odd team out

Keys to the AL East

Since it's pretty much the only interesting division in baseball right now (besides the NL and AL Central where all the teams are terrible), the AL East has 3 contenders and probably 3 of the best 4 teams in baseball. Unfortunately only two of those three teams are going to make it to the postseason. 

At the unofficial midseason, here's what Boston, Tampa Bay and New York need to do to finish it out.

Tampa Bay:

The good news for the Rays is that they can only get better. They've played well under their potential and they've been hurt by inconsistent starting pitching by Kazmir, Price and Sonnanstine. Jeff Niemann has stepped in to become one of the best #5 starters in the game, however, and Sonnanstine has been demoted, and Kazmir has regained his form, if his last 3 starts are any indication. Price's problems are the same that have plagued Kaz the past two years, though, and as long as he can find a balance between "walk everyone on the team" and "put the ball right down the middle," he should be fine: his stuff is too good to fall into obscurity.

Huge years by Ben Zobrist, Carl Crawford, Jason Bartlett and Evan Longoria have bailed out the team's inconsistent pitching. They have the best run differential in the majors, the best OBP, and by far the best baserunning team. The bullpen is also extremely solid and one of the best in baseball. Bullpen ace JP Howell has proven to be a top 5 reliever in the game and anyone who believes that a closer is necessary for a quality bullpen just needs to look at the Rays to see how wrong they are. Lance Cormier has been the biggest surprise and is probably the best middle/long reliever in the game, assuming Phil Hughes stays in the bullpen.

Offense: A-

Starting pitching: C

Bullpen: A

New York:

The Yanks seemed to be destined for another 3rd place year had they not seen huge offensive turnarounds on a few fronts. Most critics, along with myself, didn't see much reason for the huge offseason haul of CC and Burnett if they weren't going to do much to fill the gaps in the lineup, but Derek Jeter and Jonny Damon have somehow pulled together great years and shown power that the lineup was severely lacking. Brett Gardner has been a surprise too but management is still obsessed with Melky Cabrera and won't consistently start the clearly superior Gardner. A-rod is slumping, but that's not really that surprising. He's aging, and guys his size don't usually "age well" in baseball. Kinda making that huge contract extension look a little dumb, if he doesn't rebound.

The starting pitching has been about what we expected. Joba struggles every once in a while and a bunch of retards yell about how he should go back to the bullpen. Wang started the season with the worst 3 starts in baseball history but probably has regressed back to the norm a bit. CC and Burnett aren't exactly living up to their huge price tags but they're still solid enough to never be worth complaining about. Bullpen is the real low point with NYY, and Bruney was supposed to come back from the DL and be the savior but he's pretty much shown that he's 2007 Bruney and not 2008 Bruney. Mo is one of the only sure things in the pen but Hughes, again, as long as he stays there, is about as solid as they come.

Offense: A-

Starting pitching: A

Bullpen: C

Boston:

I say this not only because I hate the Red Sox more than I hate Nazis or rapists or Twilight; I say this because I genuinely believe it: the Sox are dead in the water unless they get younger fast. Mike Lowell has been a disappointment this year at the plate, but his defense has deteriorated into nothing. David Ortiz may have come along lately but you can't ignore his lengthy slump to start the season and his overall decline which will inevitably continue as the big guy ages. Jason Bay's defense is awful, JD Drew is another guy who's only going to get older and worse, and Jason Varitek is probably in his last season and the Sox have no replacements. 

So, after all that, they're somehow in first place still. A great bullpen is one of the main reasons. Extremely solid pitching by Beckett and Lester, Wakefield getting lucky every time he goes out there, and of the best top-of-the-orders in the game with Pedroia, Bay, and Drew. It's just hard for me to see the Sox staying that way throughout the rest of the season. There has to be some offensive regression somewhere, and I fail to see how Wakefield can get the 2008 Andy Sonnanstine treatment and continue to get 6 runs of support per game. Of the 3 AL East teams, I can't REALISTICALLY see the Sox remaining on top - especially with something like 24 games left against NYY and TBA - but somehow, they'll probably stick it out and stay in first, because Boston always seems to find a way.

Offense: B

Starting Pitching: A

Bullpen: A

Defense Aside from Jacoby Ellsbury: F- 

In the end, I can see any combination of finishes understandably. Peter Gammons thinks the Rays are going to win it by 5 games. PECOTA sees the Sox staying put at the top. As much as I hate to believe it, I think Boston does win the division, and the Wild Card will probably be decided by as little as a game or a half. It may sound like a homer pick, but I don't think the Rays finish 3rd. They've got too much talent to continue playing subpar baseball. And it's weird to say that they're playing subpar considering they're one of the 4 best teams in baseball - it's just they have the potential to be SO good, that we expect so much more.

Time to watch the best division in all of sports play out through the dog days.

-Mike

You Know What Really Chaps My Ass...?

You know what really Chaps My Ass…”New Rays Fans”, where do you get off?. First off, let me start by saying a few things. Number one, I love that the Rays are decent now, and get respect and all that jazz. B) Those of you who know me, are probably wondering why my first hack wasn’t at Sox “fans” and the reason is I’m saving them for a rainy day and taking my shots at the Rays bandwagon right now. And three, screw ESPN for joining bandwagoners on every flavor-of-the-week team. Ok, so here it is, what chaps my ass is how these “Rays Fans” get up in my face and talk smack about how they were great last year. It’s not even that though, I can take a tongue lashing with the best of them, but these sellouts were the same people getting in my face two years ago when Boston went on a rampage. I remember sitting in my dorm freshman year, getting texts from so called “Boston Fans”, rubbing it in my face when they won the World Series, then the next year I have to take the same beating again only now this time they’re sporting blue jerseys. Listen, if you’re going to hop on a wagon and ride it all the way until October, then at least have the decency, nay the BALLS to stay on it for the long haul. The term “bandwagon” or “fair-weather” doesn’t even apply to these people. Instead, I’m going to call them “Trophy-Whores”. Now don’t get me wrong, I understand that most team’s fan bases started off when they did well, or had an amazing run…but to switch teams after one season??? Here’s the other thing that really chaps my ass about these N.R.F.’s, most of them pull for either both the Yanks and the Rays or the Sox and the Rays. People, you CANNOT, I repeat, CANNOT pull for two teams in the same division…it is just bad sportsmanship! How can you claim to be fans of both squads when they are both in contention for the division? Pick a team, and stick with them through thick and thin. To round this out, I want to send my love for the old school Rays fans out there. The one’s who still call them the DEVIL Rays, who remember the Trop BEFORE the Stingray Tank, who can whip out the Purp’ & Black uni’s and hats and little league T-Shirts. To those people I tip my hat, you went through hell for ten years, and now you have to deal with the Boston fans of yesteryear and for that I salute you. To the rest of you…go watch a sport no one cares about…like curling, or hockey.

Da NFL Sack

First i havent addressed Steve McNair he was a great man with a huge heart and a warrior on the field. R.I.P Air McNair. Another issue is let Vick play. He paid his dues. But now ill continue with my countdown of NFL teams
NFC North
Vikings- they added Sage Rosenfels and drafted Percy Harvin. Both are quality additions
Strengths- no question the running game with the massive bohemeths o linemen and there runstopping defense.
Weaknesses- their LBs are liabilties in coverage and they have a QB carousel. Jackson is inconsistent. Rosenfels is serviceable and should start and then theres that Favre guy whos dicking them around
Prediction- With or without Favre they wont win the division but finish in second and probably miss the playoffs

Packers- they had a great draft adding huge DT BJ Raji and Hard Hitting LB Clay Mathews. The are switching to the 3-4 with Kampman at OLB which should wreck havoc on QBs
Strengths- their WRs are young talented and endless. The have as great offense that will score points and there D is much improved.
Weaknesses- they are switching defensive schemes which will have some growing pains and Ryan Grant needs to stay heathy because RB is thin
Prediction- they win the division after a slow start to there season

Bears- they made a great trade for Jay Cutler and signed LT Orlando Pace to protect him.
Strengths- Jay Cutler, Matt Forte, and their Defense
Weaknesses- No WRs, they needed to sign a vet or trade for Edwards or Marshall. Also they have young average safties.
Prediction- they are competetive but lack of WRs hurts them and puts them in 3rd

Lions- hey it cant get worse then last year. Had a very good offseason they added three wideouts Bryant Johnson, Ronald Curry, and Dennis Northcutt. Trade for Julian Peterson and signed Larry Foote. Signed DTs Chuck Darby and Grady Jackson and CBs Anthony Henry and Phil Buchanon. They drafted QB Mathew Stafford and TE Brandon Pettigrew
Strengths- they cant be worse than last year and added a lot of offense and defense
Weaknesses- young QB or Daunte? and didnt improve there god awful pass rush or o line
Prediction- last place but hey they win a few games

NFL Sack

Now there has been a lot of criticizism over the Terrel Suggs contract 6 yrs/63 mill 33 mill guaranteed. It makes him the highest paid LB. But let me tell you something he has been getting after the QB his whole career and as the Giants showed you can win a SB that way. Now Matt Cassel got the same deal just less guaranteed money. Cassel had one year that was above average wth a team stacked with weapons now this is a dumb move. Look how Matt Schaub turned out in Houston.
Now all these sites have been breaking down team by team so Ill take a crack but Ill do it Division by division. Ill start with the NFC East
Eagles- They added two tackles in Stacy Andrews and Jason Peters. They drafted Cornelius Ingram TE, LeShon McCoy RB, and speedster Jeremy Maclin.
Strengths- they improved th O-Line and added WR depth and RB depth
Weaknesses- they lost heart and sould of their D Brian Dawkins FS. We will see who leads there D this seasson
Prediction- I think they finish second as long as Westbrook can play in at least 12 games. And make the wild card


Giants- They went Defensive in free agency adding LB Michael Boley, DTs Chris Canty and Rocky Bernard, and SS CC Brown. They drafted WRs Hakeem Nicks and Ramses Barden who are going to try and replace Plaxico. LB Clint Singram, OT William Beatty, and H-Back Travis Beckum

Strengths- Obviously there D particularly there pass rush. Osi is back with Tuck, Kiwanuaka, Robbins, Canty, Cofield, and Bernard. Along with there rushing attack and O Line. Jacobs is back along with WIND Ahmad Bradshaw, and a player primed for a break out Danny Ware
Weaknesses- WRs no doubt. They have a very young core and the need to produce. They lost Derrick Ward but he was a product of their O Line
Prediction- they win the division because of their pass rush and rushing attack

Cowboys- they added DE Igor Ovshansky, SS Gerald Sensabaugh, and LB Keith Brooking
Strengths-Rushing attack with a healthy Felix Jones and Marion Barber. Also there defense is strong and Romos improve
Weaknesses- Romos improvisation can lead to big plays and also big mistakes. Losing T.O is big even though hes a distraction the man can play and losing SS Roy Williams hurts the run defense
Prediction- they finish third unless Westbrook misses a lot of time

Redskins- Of course you know they added Big Al Haynesworth, they drafted DE/OLB Brian Orakpo
Strengths- they have a fearsome defense that will not give up many points and Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts with run the ball down your throat
Weaknesses- probably the most important position QB Jason Campbell. He is inconsistent and will be the achilles heel of the team
Prediction-they finish last but stay competitive

The All Star Game

It was a great game and pretty quick. Had it not been for Carl Crawford robbing Hawpes homer Paplebon would be the goat. Nathan and Mo are lights out so when it got to the later innings it didnt bode well for the NL.

Dont see what the fuss is about Charlie Manuel having Bell intentionally walk Victor Martinez. As Herm Edwards say "YOU PLAY TO WIN THE GAME" set up the DP get out of the inning. It didnt work but its the logical thing to do.

Personally i would have liked to see Greinke start just so we had to 25 year old pitchers starting. Would have Been like in the ASG 87 when Gooden 21, face Clemens 24

Things about the All Star Break that ESPN has said to piss me off

1. On Joe Maddon's decision to pick Halladay as the starter:

"No question it's Halladay. Some would argue that you could pick Beckett or Wakefield, but Halladay is the easily the correct answer."

2.85 ERA 1.098 WHIP .7 HR/9 106 K 16 BB 3 CG

4.31 ERA 1.380 WHIP .7 HR/9 61 K 31 BB 2 CG

3.35 ERA 1.149 WHIP .7 HR/9 110 K 35 BB 2 CG

2.12 ERA 1.076 WHIP .3 HR/9 129 K 21 BB 5 CG

One of these is Zack Grienke. Hint: It's not the one with the 4.31 ERA who is only getting the All-Star nod because he wears a Boston uniform. He's actually the one with the 2.12 ERA and the best numbers in the league in pretty much everything.

Listen, there's nothing WRONG with the Halladay selection. It's just the All Star Game and it's not a big deal, even though Grienke is pretty clearly the best pitcher. But for ESPN to completely snub him in favor of two Boston pitchers - one who shouldn't be allowed within 20 miles of the fucking game - is about as dumb as the next thing I'm about to talk about.

2. "At the end of the game, you've got Nathan, Rivera and Papelbon? Those guys are unhittable!"

Ok, I get it that we're supposed to believe that the closer is supposed to be this enigma who can't be touched and no one will ever score off of. But I think Brad Lidge should have blown the cover off that ridiculous mindset this year. 

Papelbon is, however, in the middle of his worst year ever and is quite hittable. His walks are WAY up, his homerun rate is up, and he's on his way to let up more than double the hits he usually does. But yeah, he's unhittable, sure, ok ESPN.

Mariano and Nathan are doing awesome though so it would have been a pretty legit statement had they not done the usual Boston pandering and added in Papelbon's name.

3. "With Pedroia out, Aaron Hill is the only second baseman on the roster and will have to play the whole game."

Hello, ESPN, let me introduce you to All-Star Ben Zobrist. He happens to lead the AL in almost every statistical category. He's been the Rays' starting 2B for over a month. He also plays 6 other positions and can pitch. It's cool that you guys forgot about him, though. It's not like your only job is to watch baseball all day and talk about it on TV. It's a tough life.

-Mike

2009 ASG

With the All Star game moments away I felt the need to weigh in. The AL is 11-0-1 since 1997. I dont think its going to change this year.

While the NL has Lincecum who is a beast he wont go 7 innings. Plus most of the NL's pop is at 1st base with Gonzalez, Howard, Fielder, and Pujols.

The AL is very deep has great pitching and has the mental edge.

Bold Prediction AL 9-NL-7

Trade Season

This is a big trade season. A lot of the so called experts have said no but i beg to differ. There are a lot of players on the block and a lot of teams who will sell or on the fence of selling,

Pitchers are on the markets and some big names.
Jake Peavy was traded then he vetoed the trade wanting to stay in the NL. I dont see him getting traded until the offseason but look for the Phillies to be contenders loaded with young talent and seeking pitchers they are the favs. But the Brewers and Rockies both with young talent are dark horses who could use him as a spark
Roy Halladay is another name out there and every team is salivating. I see the Angels, White Sox, and Phillies being contenders. All three are stockpiled with young talented the Angels and White Sox more than the Phillies. I see the White Sox landing him at the deadline.
Some others are Jarred Washburn, Erik Bedard, Doug Davis, Jonathon Sanchez, and Cliff Lee. Relievers could include Matt Capps, Bobby Jenk, Brian Fuentes, Jon Grabow

Hitters are out there too
Freddy Sanchez and Adam LaRoche from the Pirates. Josh Willingham and Adam Dunn from the Nats, Matt Holiday from the A's, Garret Atkins from the Rockies. The Giants are looking for bats so i see them possibly adding both Willingham and Dunn for top prospect Madison Bumgardener LHP, Buster Posey C, and Jon Sanchez. The Yanks might be in the mix for an Atkins or Willingham.

But it should be exciting and I expect a lot of moves

Brock Lesnar

I dont see a problem with his post fight antics as they call it except pissing off bud light lol. Mir called him out after he beat Nogueira and nobody said anything. When Brock won he said to Mir "talk shit now" when he was getting booed he flicked off the crowd. Big Deal. Its America you can boo he can make gestures. This beast of a man is great for MMA. It gives them a villian that you love to hate yet is hard to beat. Next step needs to be Fedor vs Brock, now that would be interesting

HR Derby

Now Howard or Pujols are the favorite but there are some sluggers. Watch out for Nelson Cruz he is my pick to win. Inge and Mauer have more line drive strokes which doesnt win HR derbys. Put Ichiro in the derby I have seen him take BP and he hits bombs now that would be interesting

ufc 100

great show belcher and akiyama got fight of the night in my opinion. Henderson showed he still has gas in the tank with his KO victory over Bisbing. Next is Anderson i guess. Alves lost but showed heart to keep fighting and getting up, i believe Alves will be the camp eventually he is only 25. Jon Jones is a light heavyweight who is a force with another with he has judo, wrestling, and jui jitsu. improved striking will make him a force. And Brock Lesnar is exactly what the UFC needa a villian with personality with his dimantling of Frank Mir he will reign champ for a long time

lets go

First things first these are my opinions so deal with it. Second if you agree, disagree, or want to discuss something feel free but make sure its a valid point. And last im gonna start a blog eventually so if people wanna get in on it lemme know. Lets get to it

MMA- this sport is the fastest growing sport in the nation. Why because karate, muay thai, wrestlers, boxers, etc. have an outlet to show there skills. Its safer then boxing because fights are stopped by submission, referree stoppage, or knockout whereas boxing guys can get knocked out wake up at 4 and stand up to fight more leaving then to suffer more damage. Its more exciting because theres more action and knockouts. They wear 4 oz gloves compared to boxings 14-20 oz. Boxing is slowly dying because people are switching to MMA. Boxing has this whole "purse" issue where fighters want 75% leaving the other with 25?% so fights are being done. This potentially could lead to Floyd Mayweather not fighting Manny Pacquiao. Tell you what how about if you win you get 75%. But MMA is quickly growing and if your not a fan I suggest you check it out. It is truly the art of fighting

Baseball Draft- This is the most poorly constructed draft in any sport, there are a million rounds, its not televised, and scout Boras dictates where guys go. What do I mean? The small market teams such as the Twins, Brewers, Rays, Marlins will skip on talent in order to not pay him. Plus japanese and latin american players arent in the draft and sign to whoever they want. And there is no trading of draft picks. Solution set a max and min salaries on rookies in the draft include the japanese and latin american players and allow picks to be traded.Stephen Strasburg- this guy blows my mind he throws triple digits with a plus slider and change and a knee buckling curveball. Usually not sold on young players but this kid can bring it. Barring an injury i see this kid pitching for the Nationals by middle of next season.

NHL- Its really not that hard to follow a BLACK PUCK on WHITE ICE people. This is a very exciting sport. If you have never been to a game, GO. Your perspective will change on the sport. And I know about the lock out and how its not what it used to be, your right.....its better. There are tons of young talented players like Malkin, Crosby and Ovechkin. C'Mon people lets get hockey at least back on ESPN 2. As far as the Stanley Cup finals it two American teams. Ha screw you canada but I think the Red wings win in 7

NBA- Im tired so ill say this Lakers sweep

ignorance

Steroids- This is a very strange predicament for baseball. Most of our heroes and idols are in question or been caught. I used to hate the fact that people took steroids but then i realized it doesnt help your hand eye coordination it might turn a deep fly ball to a homer adding maybe 10 more HRs. Yes its unfair but I believe at least 75% of basebal players have used or currently using steroids or HGH. HGH will probably be legal in ten years. It is a recent drug but it restores muscle mass and eats fat. It has been referred to as an anti aging remedy. If it wasnt for Big Mac and Sammy's chase to 61 baseball could still be hurting. If I had a vote first i would vote in Pete Rose and then Palmeiro, Mcgwire, Sosa it was part of the culture.

Ballparks- I dont see why there is such a big deal made over the new Yankee ballpark. I know balls are flying out quicker then a whores vagina but it happens. I think it will slow but still be a hitters park. Arlinginton, Great American, Coors are all fan boxes that homers fly out of.

misc

Now that i got some of your fuckers revved up im diving into the hot topicsOne player right now in the NBA(one season NOT a build a team around)- Kobe Bryant this man will hit shots from anywhere in the arena is big and strong enough to drive to the whole and can single handlely carry a team. Hes a pure scorer and a court general. He makes his free throws, finds the open man and (Rich Davis hates this term) is clutch. He has taken the double team since Shaq left and is about to win his title without him. And though he may be selfish all the greats are when it comes down to the last second shot.
Steroids- Raul Ibanez got accused by a blogger for taking steroids because he averages 20 HRs a year and already has twenty this season. Well that blogger named Jared was just on OTL so im going to follow his lead a pick a different person lol. David "Big Papi" Ortiz was a Minnesota Twin for six seasons. Though he was a part time player he started his last three seasons and the most HRs he hit was 20 and 75 RBIs. He batted .272. His next season he hit .288 31 HRs 101 RBIs his first season in Boston when her became good friends with teammate Manny Ramirez. Hmmm Remember or should I say misremember Roger Clemens and Andy Petite. Im just saying his HRs increase to 41, 47, 54 over the next three seasons RBIs and BA increased above his previous highs. The Mitchell report was released in Dec. 2007 so the offseason. The following season he was injured but hit 23 dingers and we all know about this year.
College athletes- I dont think they should get paid because when they get money most get crazy. They probably would play two seasons at college and flunk out. They are students first then athletes. You wanna get paid play in the Arena or Canadian league. I do feel theseviolations are a bit ridiculous because all schools have or still violate oned of these bullshit rules but i guess you gotta draw the line somewhere.As far as them going straight pro I dont like it for football but everyother sport go for it. My reasoning is in baseball you go through the minors for three years might as well go to college but hey who am i to say dont sign that contract for a million dollars. Basketball 18 years old ball out. T-Mac, Kobe, KG, Dwight i mean the list goes on and on. Some these kids grow up knowing that B ball is there only way out and if they get injured in college and cant play anymore they are screwed. Now I say no on football because there is not one 18 year old ready to play professional football. You arent fully developed and your going against grown angry men who dont like you because you think you can hang. Maybe two years of college instaed of the three im not sure where that can from I would say after and associates degree they are eligible.

tid bit of football

Best Running team: The New York Giants- even without Derrick Ward they are the best Brandon Jacobs wears teams down. Ahmad Bradshaw is the home run hitter while he has fumbling problems but Coughlin will fix that. And a guy that you dont know about but will is Danny Ware. This guy is D Ward and then some plus Madison Hedgecock might be the best blocking fullback in footballBest
Running back: AD Peterson just like his nickname the guy goes all day. He is strong, fast and has fresh legs thats how football works young studs. He catches he runs can juke and run over plus has the speed to score on any down
Best Cornerback: Nnamdi Asomugha, this guy is 6'2 210 yet runs stride for stride with every wide out. Teams dont throw on his side anymore like Champ Bailey use too but he has lost a step.The two running back system has taken away from 2000 yard rushers. Teams realize they can keep backs fresher and use a bigger bull dozer and a smaller jet to torch defenses. Peterson has the best chance to do it though cuz the Vikings love to run with the humongous o lineMore to come later

Mike Vick: yes the man funded a dog fighting ring but Pacman Jones slammed a strippers head. Strallworth and Leonard Little kill peple. Michael Pittman played bumper cars with his wife. Players sell drugs abuse woman, abuse drugs etc. Let him play. PETA he paid his debt to society step off his nuts. The Wildcat formation is built for him. He will play and thrive in that system or possib;y a kick returner( just a thought great in open space)


Jose Canseco: awful player, teammate, friend but great reporter all his names have been true but he is still and always will be a rat. He broke guy code and dont be surprised when HGH is legal and now a days 75% of athletes are on performane enhancing drugs