Rays- Carl Crawford stays put. They wont sign him in the offseason but will settle for the supplemental 1st round draft pick, thats how they have built this club. Carlos Pena is below the Mendoza line but has power and a great glove. Atlanta Braves are the most likely destination. Chipper Jones is fragile plus Pena would be a great platoon player with Glaus. Also the Giants would be another fit, they have Buster Posey but as of now Pena would add more muched power
Orioles- Garret Atkins, Miguel Tejada, Ty Wigginton, and Kevin Millwood are all on the block. Millwood will probably be moved to a contender as a 3 or 4 starter. Dodgers, Angels, Mets, Twins, Padres, and Cards would all be interested. Wgginton will be moved because of the versatility Mets, Twins, Angels, and Cards are the front runner. Dont see Tejada or Atkins getting moved barring an injury
Yankees- looking to aquire as always they say pitching isnt a concern but you can never have to much. Oswalt, Harang, and Harden are big contracts that could be gotten cheap. Dotel, Scott Shields and Wigginton are possibilities
Roy Oswalt probably ends up a met along with Konerko, Cliff Lee to the Dodgers, Adam LaRoche to the Rays. Ben Sheets ends up a Card and Jake Wstbrook a twin
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Mock Draft 3.0
1. St Louis Rams: Sam Bradford QB Oklahoma-They fell in love with him atthe combine and the rest is history
2. Detroit Lions: Russell Okung LT Oklahoma St-lets face it DTs taken in the top ten ar busts. And the Lions can afford another bust. Its hard to transfer to the pros and some guys dont have the motor. Plus they need to keep Stafford upright. They took Stafford first last year and now take a LT to protect his for the next 15 years
3. TB Bucs: Ndamakong Suh DT Nebraska- the Bucs catch a big break by the best DT prospect or possibly best prospect.
4. Washington Redskins: Trent Williams LT Oklahoma- hes a better zone blocking scheme fit which Shanahan produces 1,000 yd rushers out of
5. KC Chiefs: Bryan Bulaga LT Iowa: Chiefs need an OT bad. Hes the best available
6. Seattle Seahawks: Eric Berry FS Tennessee- they get a great ball hawking safety something in which they lack plus with Jones returning at LT they can wait
7. Cleveland Brown: Jimmy Clausen QB ND- a see possibly them swapping QBs with the Rams
8. Oakland Raiders: Bruce Campbell OT Maryland- i know a stretch but Al Davis loves work out warriors i.e McFadden, Gallery, Hayward Bey, JaMarcus Russel so he does it again.
9. Buffalo Bills: Anthony Davis OT Rutgers- need a OL before a QB can make throws
10. Jacksonville Jaguars: Gerald McCoy DT Oklahoma- need to get pressure with their front 4 so adding Kampman helps Henderson but McCoy makes them great
11. Denver Broncos: Dez Bryant WR Oklahoma St- with Marshall gone this is priority one
12. Miami Dolphins: Dan Williams NT Tennesee- hes a monster who commands a double team
13. San Francisco: CJ Spiller HB Clemson- add him with Gore and they are a scary tandem.
14. Seattle Seahawks: Derrick Morgan DE Georgia Tech- Carroll loves defense and Morgan helps that
15. New York Giants: Rolando McClain MLB Bama- Pierce is gone and McClain is an animal to bring back the Giants D.
16. Tennessee Titans: Jason Pierre-Paul DE USF- pass rush is a real big problem and he reminds me of Jevon Kearse in his prime
17. SF 49ers: Joe Haden CB Florida- they lost Harris and Bly and Clements might be a June 1 casualty
18. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Iupati OG Iowa: mauler reminds me of Alan Faneca and gives that line some much needed tenacity
19. Atlanta Falcons: Brandon Graham DE Michigian- Jamal Anderson is a bust so Graham could play end opposite of Abraham
20. Houston Texans: Earl Thomas DB Texas- great versatile player can play safety or corner both needs for the Texans
21. Cincinnati Bengals: Maurice Pouncey C/OG Florida- he will come in and start at RG for Bobbie Williams
22. New England Patriots: Jerry Hughes DE/OLB TCU- very smart player. Hes very athletic for his size a Terrell Suggs clone. He will help restore their pass rush
23. GB Packers: Charles Brown OT USC- pass protection was their biggest problem so its a no brainer
24. Philadelphia Eagles: Kyle Wilson CB Boise State- they took care of their LB core by trading for Ernie Sims and Alex Hall but traded Sheldon Brown. Ryan Matthews would be a good pick but they will focus on D
25. Baltimore Ravens: Jared Odrick DE/DT Penn State- him and Ngata will be a force for 10 years
26. Arizona Cardinals: Sean Weatherspoon ILB Mizz- lost Dansby but Weatherspoon is an athletic beast who will replace him immediately
27. Dallas Cowboys: Taylor Mays SS USC-they need a safety and hes a Roy Williams clone except faster
28. SD Chargers: Ryan Mathews Fresno State- Maybe the best back in the draft similar to Michael Turner big strong and fast
29. New York Jets: Lynval Joseph NT East Carolina- Jenkins is injury prone and in a 3-4 you need a space eating NT here he is
30. Minnesota Vikings: Devin McCourty CB Rutgers: need secondary help
31. Indianapolis Colts: Brian Price UCLA- a force in the middle helps free Mathis and Freeney'
32. NO Saints: Carlos Dunlap DE Florida- great potential but off field worrisomes. Match him with Will Smith and the Saints are scarier
2. Detroit Lions: Russell Okung LT Oklahoma St-lets face it DTs taken in the top ten ar busts. And the Lions can afford another bust. Its hard to transfer to the pros and some guys dont have the motor. Plus they need to keep Stafford upright. They took Stafford first last year and now take a LT to protect his for the next 15 years
3. TB Bucs: Ndamakong Suh DT Nebraska- the Bucs catch a big break by the best DT prospect or possibly best prospect.
4. Washington Redskins: Trent Williams LT Oklahoma- hes a better zone blocking scheme fit which Shanahan produces 1,000 yd rushers out of
5. KC Chiefs: Bryan Bulaga LT Iowa: Chiefs need an OT bad. Hes the best available
6. Seattle Seahawks: Eric Berry FS Tennessee- they get a great ball hawking safety something in which they lack plus with Jones returning at LT they can wait
7. Cleveland Brown: Jimmy Clausen QB ND- a see possibly them swapping QBs with the Rams
8. Oakland Raiders: Bruce Campbell OT Maryland- i know a stretch but Al Davis loves work out warriors i.e McFadden, Gallery, Hayward Bey, JaMarcus Russel so he does it again.
9. Buffalo Bills: Anthony Davis OT Rutgers- need a OL before a QB can make throws
10. Jacksonville Jaguars: Gerald McCoy DT Oklahoma- need to get pressure with their front 4 so adding Kampman helps Henderson but McCoy makes them great
11. Denver Broncos: Dez Bryant WR Oklahoma St- with Marshall gone this is priority one
12. Miami Dolphins: Dan Williams NT Tennesee- hes a monster who commands a double team
13. San Francisco: CJ Spiller HB Clemson- add him with Gore and they are a scary tandem.
14. Seattle Seahawks: Derrick Morgan DE Georgia Tech- Carroll loves defense and Morgan helps that
15. New York Giants: Rolando McClain MLB Bama- Pierce is gone and McClain is an animal to bring back the Giants D.
16. Tennessee Titans: Jason Pierre-Paul DE USF- pass rush is a real big problem and he reminds me of Jevon Kearse in his prime
17. SF 49ers: Joe Haden CB Florida- they lost Harris and Bly and Clements might be a June 1 casualty
18. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Iupati OG Iowa: mauler reminds me of Alan Faneca and gives that line some much needed tenacity
19. Atlanta Falcons: Brandon Graham DE Michigian- Jamal Anderson is a bust so Graham could play end opposite of Abraham
20. Houston Texans: Earl Thomas DB Texas- great versatile player can play safety or corner both needs for the Texans
21. Cincinnati Bengals: Maurice Pouncey C/OG Florida- he will come in and start at RG for Bobbie Williams
22. New England Patriots: Jerry Hughes DE/OLB TCU- very smart player. Hes very athletic for his size a Terrell Suggs clone. He will help restore their pass rush
23. GB Packers: Charles Brown OT USC- pass protection was their biggest problem so its a no brainer
24. Philadelphia Eagles: Kyle Wilson CB Boise State- they took care of their LB core by trading for Ernie Sims and Alex Hall but traded Sheldon Brown. Ryan Matthews would be a good pick but they will focus on D
25. Baltimore Ravens: Jared Odrick DE/DT Penn State- him and Ngata will be a force for 10 years
26. Arizona Cardinals: Sean Weatherspoon ILB Mizz- lost Dansby but Weatherspoon is an athletic beast who will replace him immediately
27. Dallas Cowboys: Taylor Mays SS USC-they need a safety and hes a Roy Williams clone except faster
28. SD Chargers: Ryan Mathews Fresno State- Maybe the best back in the draft similar to Michael Turner big strong and fast
29. New York Jets: Lynval Joseph NT East Carolina- Jenkins is injury prone and in a 3-4 you need a space eating NT here he is
30. Minnesota Vikings: Devin McCourty CB Rutgers: need secondary help
31. Indianapolis Colts: Brian Price UCLA- a force in the middle helps free Mathis and Freeney'
32. NO Saints: Carlos Dunlap DE Florida- great potential but off field worrisomes. Match him with Will Smith and the Saints are scarier
Friday, March 26, 2010
AL Central
White Sox- they added Peavy and Rios last year, factor in the growth of Gordon Beckham and new additions Mark Teahan, Juan Pierre, Andrum Jones and JJ Putz. They will win the central
Twins- hard to pick against them since they win it almost every year but their starters are very young and losing Nathan is the final nail.
Royals- finally they are competitive. They have so many young arms in the minors and in their staff. Butker and Gordon will have big years
Tigers- decided to go younger by trading Granderson for Austin Jackson but also added Damon, and Laird they have young arms but still wont make the playoffs
Indians- very young team that will struggle but they have a solid young core to build on
Twins- hard to pick against them since they win it almost every year but their starters are very young and losing Nathan is the final nail.
Royals- finally they are competitive. They have so many young arms in the minors and in their staff. Butker and Gordon will have big years
Tigers- decided to go younger by trading Granderson for Austin Jackson but also added Damon, and Laird they have young arms but still wont make the playoffs
Indians- very young team that will struggle but they have a solid young core to build on
Thursday, March 25, 2010
MLB Preview
AL East
1) Yankees- they added Curtis Granderson, Nick Johnson to replace Matsui and Damon. Include Randy Winn and bringing up their #1 prospect C Jesus Montero. Hughes is the fifth starter and Joba is back the set up. There team is better so they win the division
2) Red Sox- they added Beltre,Cameron, Scutaro and Lackey but lost arguably the best bat in Jason Bay. They win the Wildcard
3) Rays- the most interesting team. They have most of their team intacted and added Rafael Soriano to solidify that pen. If Pena can cut back on strike outs they could win the wildcard
4) Orioles- very young exciting team. Added Mike Gonzalez, Kevin Millward, Miguel Tejada, and Garret Atkins. They have their core together and a lot of young pitching would not be surprised if the made it to the wildcard break in first place
5) Blue Jays- they trade Roy Halladay after already trading Alex Rios. They added Kevin Gregg and Brendean Morrow
1) Yankees- they added Curtis Granderson, Nick Johnson to replace Matsui and Damon. Include Randy Winn and bringing up their #1 prospect C Jesus Montero. Hughes is the fifth starter and Joba is back the set up. There team is better so they win the division
2) Red Sox- they added Beltre,Cameron, Scutaro and Lackey but lost arguably the best bat in Jason Bay. They win the Wildcard
3) Rays- the most interesting team. They have most of their team intacted and added Rafael Soriano to solidify that pen. If Pena can cut back on strike outs they could win the wildcard
4) Orioles- very young exciting team. Added Mike Gonzalez, Kevin Millward, Miguel Tejada, and Garret Atkins. They have their core together and a lot of young pitching would not be surprised if the made it to the wildcard break in first place
5) Blue Jays- they trade Roy Halladay after already trading Alex Rios. They added Kevin Gregg and Brendean Morrow
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Mock Draft 2.5
1. St Louis Rams: Sam Bradford QB Oklahoma- they fell in love with him at the combine because he was 15 lbs heavier. Good reasoning right. Clausen is the better QB, he is a three year starter in the west coast offense, can make all the throws and has the stronger arm but maturity issues leave him left out
2. Detroit Lions: Ndamukong Suh DT Nebraska- best prospect in the draft and best in a long time. Hes stout against the run and wreaks havoc up the middle. Him, Corey Williams and Kyle Vanden Bosch gives the Lions a good line
3. Tampa Bay Bucs: Gerald McCoy DT Oklahoma- great prospect who is a pass rusher, fits perfect in that Tampa 2. Only concerns are his strength and run stopping ability.
4. Washington Redskins: Russel Okung Oklahoma State- best O line men and it looks like LT Chris Samuels is retiring and Shanahan likes Campbell by putting a 1st round tender on him. Thats means keep him upright and Okung will.
5. Kansas City Chiefs: Bruce Campbell OT Maryland- a great combine and a physical specimen separated him from the pack of the #2 OTs. At 6'6 315 hes fast and strong, durablity is the only question. Chiefs might be tempted to take Berry but a saftey that high is rare
6. Seattle Seahawks: CJ Spiller HB Clemson- his combine solidified him as a top 10 pick running a 4.37 40 time. If they dont take him here the Brown or Niners will.
7. Cleveland Brown: Eric Berry DB Tenn- they catch a huge break with Berry falling and they dont hesitate. Hes the second best if not best draft prospect and he falls to 7.
8. Oakland Raiders: Anthony Davis OT Rutgers: might have been the second best OL but laziness and character issues changed that but as we all know the Raiders dont care so wah laa. He replaces Cornell Green
9. Buffalo Bills: Jimmy Clausen QB Notre Dame- Bills need OL help but Clausen falls and they need a QB. No brainer
10. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jason Pierre-Paul DE USF- best pass rushing DE in the draft and the Jags had no pass rush last year he should help a lot. Plus his stock is soaring. Team him with Kampman and you have
11. Denver Broncos: Dez Bryant WR Oklahoma State- After signing NT Jamal Williams and DLs Justin Bannan and Jarvis Green they can go offense
12. Miami Dolphins: Dan Williams NT Tennessee- they could use a mammath NT to replace the oft-injured Jason Ferguson. A pass rusher is a need but not as big as NT
13. SF 49ers: Joe Haden CB Florida- falls outta the top ten into their lap. Nate Clements is playing awful and they need secondary help
14. Seattle Seahawks: Brian Bulaga OT Iowa- Walter Jones isnt getting younger and as long as Hasselbeck gets time hes a pretty good QB
15. New York Giants: Rolando McClain ILB Bama- they need a MLB after cutting Pierce and he is the best in the draft. This is a steal
16. Tennessee Titans: Derrick Morgan DE Georgia Tech- he helps restore that pass rush from two years ago and replace Vanden Bosch
17. SF 49ers: Trent Williams OT Oklahoma- they have a void on the right side of there OL and Williams would fill it. Earl Thomas is a possibility but this years draft has a deep safety class
18. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Iupati Iowa- they have a make shift line but Iupati could be like Faneca
19. Atlanta Falcons: Sean Weatherspoon Mizz- the best 4-3 OLB in the draft. Hes very versatile and better fit for the Falcons rather than Kindle who fits a 3-4 better
20. Houston Texans: Earl Thomas DB Texas-with Robinson in atlanta they need secondary help bad. Thomas can play saftey or corner great fit.
21. Cincinati Bengals: Golden Tate WR ND- ran a great 40 and with Coles cut they need another WR
22. NE Patriots: Sergio Kindle DE/OLB Texas- great pass rusher to replace adalius thomas. Instinctive and athletic who will fit their team perfectly
23. GB Packers: Charles Brown OT USC: Protecting Rodgers was there biggest problem Brown should help
24. Philadelphia Eagles: Carlos Dunlap DE Florida-woulda been a top 5 pick had he not fell asleep drunk at a green light. But hes still an athletic freak at 6'6 280 and fast and strong. Fills their biggest need
25. Baltimore Ravens: Jermaine Gresham TE Oklahoma- now Flacco has Mason, Boldin, Stallworth, and Gresham to go with the running game. Scary offense now
26. Arizona Cardinals: Jerry Hughes TCU DE/OLB TCU-a lot of needs for this 2009 playoff team. LT, QB, ILB,CB, are all needs too but the 1st round talent will be gone, so they draft the BPA for their needs
27. Dallas Cowboys: Taylor Mays SS USC- they get Roy Williams back essentially he should make that run D even scarier but pass D funnier. OT is anothr need but all the first round talent is off the board.
28. SD Chargers: Ryan Matthews HB Fresno State- no players draft has gone up so much originally expected to be a late 2nd or 3rd pick now will be the 2nd back taken. Him and Sproles should make a great tandem.
29. New York Jets: Brandon Graham DE/OLB Michigian- playing opposite of Pace should help especially in Rex' system
30. Minnesota Vikings: Kyle Wilson CB Boise State- Griffin tore his ACL in the playoffs and will miss this year so they need to addd depth
31. Indianapolis Colts: Brian Price DT UCLA- playmaker who disrupts the back field and an absolute steal here in the draft
32. NO Saints: Everson Griffin DE USC- with Grant gone hes the replacement opposite Will Smith
2. Detroit Lions: Ndamukong Suh DT Nebraska- best prospect in the draft and best in a long time. Hes stout against the run and wreaks havoc up the middle. Him, Corey Williams and Kyle Vanden Bosch gives the Lions a good line
3. Tampa Bay Bucs: Gerald McCoy DT Oklahoma- great prospect who is a pass rusher, fits perfect in that Tampa 2. Only concerns are his strength and run stopping ability.
4. Washington Redskins: Russel Okung Oklahoma State- best O line men and it looks like LT Chris Samuels is retiring and Shanahan likes Campbell by putting a 1st round tender on him. Thats means keep him upright and Okung will.
5. Kansas City Chiefs: Bruce Campbell OT Maryland- a great combine and a physical specimen separated him from the pack of the #2 OTs. At 6'6 315 hes fast and strong, durablity is the only question. Chiefs might be tempted to take Berry but a saftey that high is rare
6. Seattle Seahawks: CJ Spiller HB Clemson- his combine solidified him as a top 10 pick running a 4.37 40 time. If they dont take him here the Brown or Niners will.
7. Cleveland Brown: Eric Berry DB Tenn- they catch a huge break with Berry falling and they dont hesitate. Hes the second best if not best draft prospect and he falls to 7.
8. Oakland Raiders: Anthony Davis OT Rutgers: might have been the second best OL but laziness and character issues changed that but as we all know the Raiders dont care so wah laa. He replaces Cornell Green
9. Buffalo Bills: Jimmy Clausen QB Notre Dame- Bills need OL help but Clausen falls and they need a QB. No brainer
10. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jason Pierre-Paul DE USF- best pass rushing DE in the draft and the Jags had no pass rush last year he should help a lot. Plus his stock is soaring. Team him with Kampman and you have
11. Denver Broncos: Dez Bryant WR Oklahoma State- After signing NT Jamal Williams and DLs Justin Bannan and Jarvis Green they can go offense
12. Miami Dolphins: Dan Williams NT Tennessee- they could use a mammath NT to replace the oft-injured Jason Ferguson. A pass rusher is a need but not as big as NT
13. SF 49ers: Joe Haden CB Florida- falls outta the top ten into their lap. Nate Clements is playing awful and they need secondary help
14. Seattle Seahawks: Brian Bulaga OT Iowa- Walter Jones isnt getting younger and as long as Hasselbeck gets time hes a pretty good QB
15. New York Giants: Rolando McClain ILB Bama- they need a MLB after cutting Pierce and he is the best in the draft. This is a steal
16. Tennessee Titans: Derrick Morgan DE Georgia Tech- he helps restore that pass rush from two years ago and replace Vanden Bosch
17. SF 49ers: Trent Williams OT Oklahoma- they have a void on the right side of there OL and Williams would fill it. Earl Thomas is a possibility but this years draft has a deep safety class
18. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Iupati Iowa- they have a make shift line but Iupati could be like Faneca
19. Atlanta Falcons: Sean Weatherspoon Mizz- the best 4-3 OLB in the draft. Hes very versatile and better fit for the Falcons rather than Kindle who fits a 3-4 better
20. Houston Texans: Earl Thomas DB Texas-with Robinson in atlanta they need secondary help bad. Thomas can play saftey or corner great fit.
21. Cincinati Bengals: Golden Tate WR ND- ran a great 40 and with Coles cut they need another WR
22. NE Patriots: Sergio Kindle DE/OLB Texas- great pass rusher to replace adalius thomas. Instinctive and athletic who will fit their team perfectly
23. GB Packers: Charles Brown OT USC: Protecting Rodgers was there biggest problem Brown should help
24. Philadelphia Eagles: Carlos Dunlap DE Florida-woulda been a top 5 pick had he not fell asleep drunk at a green light. But hes still an athletic freak at 6'6 280 and fast and strong. Fills their biggest need
25. Baltimore Ravens: Jermaine Gresham TE Oklahoma- now Flacco has Mason, Boldin, Stallworth, and Gresham to go with the running game. Scary offense now
26. Arizona Cardinals: Jerry Hughes TCU DE/OLB TCU-a lot of needs for this 2009 playoff team. LT, QB, ILB,CB, are all needs too but the 1st round talent will be gone, so they draft the BPA for their needs
27. Dallas Cowboys: Taylor Mays SS USC- they get Roy Williams back essentially he should make that run D even scarier but pass D funnier. OT is anothr need but all the first round talent is off the board.
28. SD Chargers: Ryan Matthews HB Fresno State- no players draft has gone up so much originally expected to be a late 2nd or 3rd pick now will be the 2nd back taken. Him and Sproles should make a great tandem.
29. New York Jets: Brandon Graham DE/OLB Michigian- playing opposite of Pace should help especially in Rex' system
30. Minnesota Vikings: Kyle Wilson CB Boise State- Griffin tore his ACL in the playoffs and will miss this year so they need to addd depth
31. Indianapolis Colts: Brian Price DT UCLA- playmaker who disrupts the back field and an absolute steal here in the draft
32. NO Saints: Everson Griffin DE USC- with Grant gone hes the replacement opposite Will Smith
Thursday, March 4, 2010
NFL Mock Draft 2.0
1. St Louis Rams: Sam Bradford QB Oklahoma- they fell in love with him at the combine because he was 15 lbs heavier. Good reasoning right. Clausen is the better QB, he is a three year starter in the west coast offense, can make all the throws and has the stronger arm but maturity issues leave him left out
2. Detroit Lions: Ndamukong Suh DT Nebraska- best prospect in the draft and best in a long time. Hes stout against the run and wreaks havoc up the middle. Him and Kyle Vanden Bosch gives the Lions a good line
3. Tampa Bay Bucs: Gerald McCoy DT Oklahoma- great prospect who is a pass rusher, fits perfect in that Tampa 2. Only concerns are his strength and run stopping ability.
4. Washington Redskins: Russel Okung Oklahoma State- best O line men and it looks like LT Chris Samuels is retiring and Shanahan likes Campbell by putting a 1st round tender on him. Thats means keep him upright and Okung will.
5. Kansas City Chiefs: Bruce Campbell OT Maryland- a great combine and a physical specimen. At 6'6 315 hes fast and strong, durablity is the only question. Chiefs might be tempted to take Berry but a saftey that high is rare
6. Seattle Seahawks: CJ Spiller HB Clemson- his combine solidified him as a top 10 pick running a 4.37 40 time. If they dont take him here the Brown or Niners will.
7. Cleveland Brown: Eric Berry DB Tenn- they catch a huge break with Berry falling and they dont hesitate. Hes the second best if not best draft prospect and he falls to 7.
8. Oakland Raiders: Anthony Davis OT Rutgers: might have been the second best OL but laziness and character issues changed that but as we all know the Raiders dont care so wah laa
9. Buffalo Bills: Jimmy Clausen QB Notre Dame- Bills need OL help but Clausen falls and they need a QB. No brainer
10. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jason Pierre-Paul DE USF- best pass rushing DE in the draft and the Jags had no pass rush last year he should help a lot. Plus his stock is soaring
11. Denver Broncos: Dan Williams NT Tenn- their defense was a surprise last year but had no space eating nose tackle to help the LBs. So they finally get one. Dez Bryant is a sexy pick but they are trying to trade a diva WR dont think they draft one.
12. Miami Dolphins: Sean Weatherspoon OLB Mizz- great versatile LB can play inside or out and can rush the passer and good to team w/ Dansby and Crowder. Great replacement for Joey Porter
13. SF 49ers: Joe Haden CB Florida- falls outta the top ten into their lap. Nate Clements is playing awful and they need secondary help
14. Seattle Seahawks: Brian Bulaga OT Iowa- Walter Jones isnt getting younger and as long as Hasselbeck gets time hes a pretty good QB
15. New York Giants: Rolando McClain ILB Bama- they need a MLB after cutting Pierce and he is the best in the draft. This is a steal
16. Tennessee Titans: Derrick Morgan DE Georgia Tech- he helps restore that pass rush from two years ago and replace Vanden Bosch
17. SF 49ers: Trent Williams OT Oklahoma- they have a void on the right side of there OL and Williams would fill it. Earl Thomas is a possibility but this years draft has a deep safety class
18. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Iupati Iowa- they have a make shift line but Iupati could be like Faneca
19. Atlanta Falcons: Sergio Kindle DE/OLB Texas-their LB core is weak aside from Lofton, Kindle can play opposit Abraham or strong side LB
20. Houston Texans: Earl Thomas DB Texas-with Robonson in atlanta they need secondary help bad. Thomas can play saftey or corner great fit
21. Cincinati Bengals: Jermaine Gresham TE Oklahoma: best TE in the draft gives Palmer yet another weapon
22. NE Patriots: Jerry Hughes DE/OLB TCU- great pass rusher to replace adalius thomas. Smart player who will fit their team perfectly
23. GB Packers: Charles Brown OT USC: Protecting Rodgers was there biggest problem Brown should help
24. Philadelphia Eagles: Carlos Dunlap DE Florida-woulda been a top 5 pick had he not fell asleep drunk at a green light. But hes still an athletic freak at 6'6 280 and fast and strong
25. Baltimore Ravens: Dez Bryant WR Oklahoma State- They get to gifts Boldin for a 3rd round pick and Dez Bryant who fell in their laps
26. Arizona Cardinals: Brandon Spikes ILB Florida- he replaces Dansby and brings intensity to them
27. Dallas Cowboys: Taylor Mays SS USC- they get Roy Williams back essentially he should make that run D even scarier.
28. SD Chargers: Ryan Matthews HB Fresno State- no players draft has gone up so much originally expected tp be a late 2nd or 3rd pick now will be the 2nd back taken
29. New York Jets: Brandon Graham DE/OLB Michigian- playing opposite of POace should help especially in Rex' system
30. Minnesota Vikings: Kyle Wilson CB- gives them depth in the secondary
31. Indianapolis Colts: Brian Price DT UCLA- playmaker who disrupts the back field
32. NO Saints: Everson Griffin- with Grant gone hes the replacement opposite Will Smith
2. Detroit Lions: Ndamukong Suh DT Nebraska- best prospect in the draft and best in a long time. Hes stout against the run and wreaks havoc up the middle. Him and Kyle Vanden Bosch gives the Lions a good line
3. Tampa Bay Bucs: Gerald McCoy DT Oklahoma- great prospect who is a pass rusher, fits perfect in that Tampa 2. Only concerns are his strength and run stopping ability.
4. Washington Redskins: Russel Okung Oklahoma State- best O line men and it looks like LT Chris Samuels is retiring and Shanahan likes Campbell by putting a 1st round tender on him. Thats means keep him upright and Okung will.
5. Kansas City Chiefs: Bruce Campbell OT Maryland- a great combine and a physical specimen. At 6'6 315 hes fast and strong, durablity is the only question. Chiefs might be tempted to take Berry but a saftey that high is rare
6. Seattle Seahawks: CJ Spiller HB Clemson- his combine solidified him as a top 10 pick running a 4.37 40 time. If they dont take him here the Brown or Niners will.
7. Cleveland Brown: Eric Berry DB Tenn- they catch a huge break with Berry falling and they dont hesitate. Hes the second best if not best draft prospect and he falls to 7.
8. Oakland Raiders: Anthony Davis OT Rutgers: might have been the second best OL but laziness and character issues changed that but as we all know the Raiders dont care so wah laa
9. Buffalo Bills: Jimmy Clausen QB Notre Dame- Bills need OL help but Clausen falls and they need a QB. No brainer
10. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jason Pierre-Paul DE USF- best pass rushing DE in the draft and the Jags had no pass rush last year he should help a lot. Plus his stock is soaring
11. Denver Broncos: Dan Williams NT Tenn- their defense was a surprise last year but had no space eating nose tackle to help the LBs. So they finally get one. Dez Bryant is a sexy pick but they are trying to trade a diva WR dont think they draft one.
12. Miami Dolphins: Sean Weatherspoon OLB Mizz- great versatile LB can play inside or out and can rush the passer and good to team w/ Dansby and Crowder. Great replacement for Joey Porter
13. SF 49ers: Joe Haden CB Florida- falls outta the top ten into their lap. Nate Clements is playing awful and they need secondary help
14. Seattle Seahawks: Brian Bulaga OT Iowa- Walter Jones isnt getting younger and as long as Hasselbeck gets time hes a pretty good QB
15. New York Giants: Rolando McClain ILB Bama- they need a MLB after cutting Pierce and he is the best in the draft. This is a steal
16. Tennessee Titans: Derrick Morgan DE Georgia Tech- he helps restore that pass rush from two years ago and replace Vanden Bosch
17. SF 49ers: Trent Williams OT Oklahoma- they have a void on the right side of there OL and Williams would fill it. Earl Thomas is a possibility but this years draft has a deep safety class
18. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Iupati Iowa- they have a make shift line but Iupati could be like Faneca
19. Atlanta Falcons: Sergio Kindle DE/OLB Texas-their LB core is weak aside from Lofton, Kindle can play opposit Abraham or strong side LB
20. Houston Texans: Earl Thomas DB Texas-with Robonson in atlanta they need secondary help bad. Thomas can play saftey or corner great fit
21. Cincinati Bengals: Jermaine Gresham TE Oklahoma: best TE in the draft gives Palmer yet another weapon
22. NE Patriots: Jerry Hughes DE/OLB TCU- great pass rusher to replace adalius thomas. Smart player who will fit their team perfectly
23. GB Packers: Charles Brown OT USC: Protecting Rodgers was there biggest problem Brown should help
24. Philadelphia Eagles: Carlos Dunlap DE Florida-woulda been a top 5 pick had he not fell asleep drunk at a green light. But hes still an athletic freak at 6'6 280 and fast and strong
25. Baltimore Ravens: Dez Bryant WR Oklahoma State- They get to gifts Boldin for a 3rd round pick and Dez Bryant who fell in their laps
26. Arizona Cardinals: Brandon Spikes ILB Florida- he replaces Dansby and brings intensity to them
27. Dallas Cowboys: Taylor Mays SS USC- they get Roy Williams back essentially he should make that run D even scarier.
28. SD Chargers: Ryan Matthews HB Fresno State- no players draft has gone up so much originally expected tp be a late 2nd or 3rd pick now will be the 2nd back taken
29. New York Jets: Brandon Graham DE/OLB Michigian- playing opposite of POace should help especially in Rex' system
30. Minnesota Vikings: Kyle Wilson CB- gives them depth in the secondary
31. Indianapolis Colts: Brian Price DT UCLA- playmaker who disrupts the back field
32. NO Saints: Everson Griffin- with Grant gone hes the replacement opposite Will Smith
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
2010 NFL Mock Draft 1.0
1. St Louis Rams- QB Jimmy Clausen Notre Dame: Suh is the consensus #1 but the Rams have Carriker and Long and with Bulger aging they need a QB now. Trading down would be the best but either way Clausen needs to go to them
2. Detroit Lions- DT Ndamukong Suh Nebraska: Wreaks havoc on QBs, someting the Lions lack Eric Berry is a good option but Suh is too appealing
3. Tampa Bay- DT Gerald McCoy: Another great pass rushing DT, Suh is who they want and a trade with the Rams is possible if not its McCoy
4. Washington Redskins-QB Sam Bradford Oklahoma: new management means new QB and that would be Bradford
5. Kansas City Chiefs- DB Eric Berry Tennessee: Best DB on the board falls to 5 and the chiefs get a playmaker
6. Seattle Seahawks-OT Russell Okung Oklahoma State: QB is a need but with Walter Jones possibly retiring protection is first plus Mallet might be the only QB left
7. Cleveland Browns- DE Derrick Morgan Georgia Tech: Not ready to sell on Quinn plus too many needs
8. Oakland Raiders- DE Carlos Dunlap Florida: Al Davis isnt afraids of risky picks so he goes here
9. Buffalo Bills- OT Bruce Campbell Maryland: Protection is key for them so this is a no brainerr
10. Chicago Bears- WR Dez Bryant Oklahoma State: need weapons for Cutler. Enough said
11. Jacksonville Jaguars- ILB Rolando McLain Alabama: great defender who helps bolster tha defense
12. Miami Dolphins- DB Taylor Mays USC: Athletic freak who works hard. Parcells kinda guy
13. SF 49ers- CB Joe Haden Florida: Clements got benched for poor play so they need a true #1 corner
14. Denver Broncos- ILB Brandon Spikes Florida: Nasty hard hitting player for McDaniels to piss off.
15. New York Giants- FS Earl Thomas Texas: with Kenny Phillips in question and the amounts of big plays given up. This is a sue thing
16. Carolina Panthers- OLB Travis Lewis Oklahoma: Need another LB to match with Beason and Davis
17. Tennessee Titans- DE Everson Griffin USC: Defense was the problem and this helps replace Haynesworth
18. Pittsburgh Steelers-OG Mike Iupati Iowa: gives them a mauling guard like Faneca.
19. Atlanta Falcons- CB Donovan Warren Michigan: Biggest problem for them and makes the most sense.
20. Houston Texans- DE Greg Hardy Ole Miss: another bookend opposite Williams is a scary thing
21. New York Jets- OT Anthony Davis Rutgers: could be the steal of the draft and pairs opposite Ferguson for the Jets
22. Baltimore Ravens- OLB/DE Jerry Hughes TCU: another pass rusher for the Ravens opposite Suggs
23. Arizona Cardinals- OT Brian Bulaga Iowa: Need protection to throw
24. Cincinati Bengals- OT Charles Brown USC: Struggled with protecting Palmer this year
25. New England Patriots-CB Ras-I Dowling Virginia: need a new secondary
26. Green Bay Packers- OT Joseph Barksdale LSU: gives A Rod time to breath
27. Philadelphia Eagles- OLB Navarro Bowmann Penn State- never have too many LBers
28. Dallas Cowboys-DT Terrance Cody Alabama: Eats up a lot of space and could move Ratliff to DE
29. Minnesota Vikings-QB Ryan Mallet Arkansas- need one with Brett possibly retiring then again could have another saga on our hands
30. New Orleans Saints- DE Jason Pierre-Paul USF: offensively they are scary but add some defense and maybe super bowl scary
31. San Diego Chargers- HB CJ Spiller Clemson: I cant see them paying LT for his return
32. Indianapolis Colts- DT Brian Price UCLA: A top 20 talent falling wont pass that up
2. Detroit Lions- DT Ndamukong Suh Nebraska: Wreaks havoc on QBs, someting the Lions lack Eric Berry is a good option but Suh is too appealing
3. Tampa Bay- DT Gerald McCoy: Another great pass rushing DT, Suh is who they want and a trade with the Rams is possible if not its McCoy
4. Washington Redskins-QB Sam Bradford Oklahoma: new management means new QB and that would be Bradford
5. Kansas City Chiefs- DB Eric Berry Tennessee: Best DB on the board falls to 5 and the chiefs get a playmaker
6. Seattle Seahawks-OT Russell Okung Oklahoma State: QB is a need but with Walter Jones possibly retiring protection is first plus Mallet might be the only QB left
7. Cleveland Browns- DE Derrick Morgan Georgia Tech: Not ready to sell on Quinn plus too many needs
8. Oakland Raiders- DE Carlos Dunlap Florida: Al Davis isnt afraids of risky picks so he goes here
9. Buffalo Bills- OT Bruce Campbell Maryland: Protection is key for them so this is a no brainerr
10. Chicago Bears- WR Dez Bryant Oklahoma State: need weapons for Cutler. Enough said
11. Jacksonville Jaguars- ILB Rolando McLain Alabama: great defender who helps bolster tha defense
12. Miami Dolphins- DB Taylor Mays USC: Athletic freak who works hard. Parcells kinda guy
13. SF 49ers- CB Joe Haden Florida: Clements got benched for poor play so they need a true #1 corner
14. Denver Broncos- ILB Brandon Spikes Florida: Nasty hard hitting player for McDaniels to piss off.
15. New York Giants- FS Earl Thomas Texas: with Kenny Phillips in question and the amounts of big plays given up. This is a sue thing
16. Carolina Panthers- OLB Travis Lewis Oklahoma: Need another LB to match with Beason and Davis
17. Tennessee Titans- DE Everson Griffin USC: Defense was the problem and this helps replace Haynesworth
18. Pittsburgh Steelers-OG Mike Iupati Iowa: gives them a mauling guard like Faneca.
19. Atlanta Falcons- CB Donovan Warren Michigan: Biggest problem for them and makes the most sense.
20. Houston Texans- DE Greg Hardy Ole Miss: another bookend opposite Williams is a scary thing
21. New York Jets- OT Anthony Davis Rutgers: could be the steal of the draft and pairs opposite Ferguson for the Jets
22. Baltimore Ravens- OLB/DE Jerry Hughes TCU: another pass rusher for the Ravens opposite Suggs
23. Arizona Cardinals- OT Brian Bulaga Iowa: Need protection to throw
24. Cincinati Bengals- OT Charles Brown USC: Struggled with protecting Palmer this year
25. New England Patriots-CB Ras-I Dowling Virginia: need a new secondary
26. Green Bay Packers- OT Joseph Barksdale LSU: gives A Rod time to breath
27. Philadelphia Eagles- OLB Navarro Bowmann Penn State- never have too many LBers
28. Dallas Cowboys-DT Terrance Cody Alabama: Eats up a lot of space and could move Ratliff to DE
29. Minnesota Vikings-QB Ryan Mallet Arkansas- need one with Brett possibly retiring then again could have another saga on our hands
30. New Orleans Saints- DE Jason Pierre-Paul USF: offensively they are scary but add some defense and maybe super bowl scary
31. San Diego Chargers- HB CJ Spiller Clemson: I cant see them paying LT for his return
32. Indianapolis Colts- DT Brian Price UCLA: A top 20 talent falling wont pass that up
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Lets call it the Joba Rules
So a new phenomena has swept Major League GMs and coaches. Every team calls it something different but for now the player being hit with it is Joba Chamberlain so we will call it the Joba Rule. It is a innings pitched limit on a young pitcher to attempt to preserve their shoulder. Now we have seen this with a ton of pitchers and teams like to leave the pitchers in the minors and bring them up later in the season to preserve them.
Now I bring this up because it is an asinine idea. Sure they are young but their arm can take more wear and tear than an older pitcher. What is shaving off 50 innings off a sophomore year do besides slow down there progression on pitching a full season and into the playoffs. Now the Yankees are screwing up Joba by pushing his starts back skipping starts etc. Let him pitch, he is not a 12 year old pitching in the LLWS throwing too many curveballs he is a grown man who makes money to pitch. Sure you can say look at Mark Prior and Kerry Wood and say if they would have took it easy with them. The truth is these guys had pre existing injuries and reoccuring injuries. Prior just could not stay healthy maybe bad luck, maybe PED's, maybe a medical issue but he kept getting hurt throughout his career.
Look at Lincecum and Cain on the Giants, they have pitched since there rookie years and no major injuries. Stop being paranoid and babying these grown man and let them play
Now I bring this up because it is an asinine idea. Sure they are young but their arm can take more wear and tear than an older pitcher. What is shaving off 50 innings off a sophomore year do besides slow down there progression on pitching a full season and into the playoffs. Now the Yankees are screwing up Joba by pushing his starts back skipping starts etc. Let him pitch, he is not a 12 year old pitching in the LLWS throwing too many curveballs he is a grown man who makes money to pitch. Sure you can say look at Mark Prior and Kerry Wood and say if they would have took it easy with them. The truth is these guys had pre existing injuries and reoccuring injuries. Prior just could not stay healthy maybe bad luck, maybe PED's, maybe a medical issue but he kept getting hurt throughout his career.
Look at Lincecum and Cain on the Giants, they have pitched since there rookie years and no major injuries. Stop being paranoid and babying these grown man and let them play
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Disgusting, Pathetic, Garbage: Just the Way Philly Likes It.
So the Eagles sign Michael Vick…I could probably end this post now. But I am going to continue and give my opinion as to why Philly can NEVER…EVER be forgiven in my eyes. Others may disagree but I could honestly care less. Let’s take two stances on this issue, the statistical reasons why this was a terrible idea and then the moral reasons why this was an even worse move.
Ok, so the Eagles sign Michael Vick who in his last NFL season hurled for over 2000 yards and trotted for another thousand and change with two touchdowns. Pretty impressive numbers by themselves, not to mention he averaged 8 yards a carry to boot. Now what if I told you they could have a quarterback that threw for 4000 yards last year and rushed for another 200 yards with two touchdowns also…is that something you might be interested in? Oh, wait…they already have that guy, his name is Donovan McNabb! Did Philly seem to forget that they already have an amazing QB??? I mean he was pretty much a top 5 QB last year despite his benching. Not to mention he had a 60% completion percentage. So Philly decides to cut his playing time to make room for a dude who may or may not have the speed he used to (those shower sessions in prison might have slowed him down some). Don’t forget that the Eagles have mucho tension in their locker room as well. This move can do nothing but add to that frustration and hinder their pursuit for a ring. I understand that they are questing for a ring like Aragorn and the boys from the Shire but this was a terrible move. Unless their motives are to use him like college teams use their speed QB’s but that tactic will run out of steam before it can even be effective. Any defensive coordinator who falls for that should be fired immediately.
On to the moral reasons why this was a terrible signing. Michael Vick was arrested for dog fighting charges but many people forget that he also TORTURED AND KILLED THESE ANIMALS…NOT JUST BET ON AND SPONSORED THEIR FIGHTS. In my eyes, and many others, this is a despicable and unforgivable act. You have to be a seriously disturbed and a fucked up individual to commit those acts on innocent and defenseless animals. Many people claim that he “served his time” or “paid his dues to society”…I’m going to have to respectfully disagree with them on that one. First off, to whom did he serve his time? Did the time he spent in prison un-torture those dogs? I was unaware that a couple of years in lock-up made someone innocent once again. “But other NFL players commit worse crimes and they still play, Jeremiah!” Yup, but does that make his case any more acceptable? No, HELL no. The NFL is messed up as is most professional sports, but I’m not concerned with that right now, I want to take my shots at Mike Vick. I hope, no I pray to whatever God will accept me, that his first play in the NFL someone rips his arms off at the shoulder and toss them to a pair of Pitt Bulls on the sidelines for a mid-Sunday lunch.
So once again Philly recaptures the trophy for scummiest city in the World…sorry Pyongyang…maybe next year.
Ok, so the Eagles sign Michael Vick who in his last NFL season hurled for over 2000 yards and trotted for another thousand and change with two touchdowns. Pretty impressive numbers by themselves, not to mention he averaged 8 yards a carry to boot. Now what if I told you they could have a quarterback that threw for 4000 yards last year and rushed for another 200 yards with two touchdowns also…is that something you might be interested in? Oh, wait…they already have that guy, his name is Donovan McNabb! Did Philly seem to forget that they already have an amazing QB??? I mean he was pretty much a top 5 QB last year despite his benching. Not to mention he had a 60% completion percentage. So Philly decides to cut his playing time to make room for a dude who may or may not have the speed he used to (those shower sessions in prison might have slowed him down some). Don’t forget that the Eagles have mucho tension in their locker room as well. This move can do nothing but add to that frustration and hinder their pursuit for a ring. I understand that they are questing for a ring like Aragorn and the boys from the Shire but this was a terrible move. Unless their motives are to use him like college teams use their speed QB’s but that tactic will run out of steam before it can even be effective. Any defensive coordinator who falls for that should be fired immediately.
On to the moral reasons why this was a terrible signing. Michael Vick was arrested for dog fighting charges but many people forget that he also TORTURED AND KILLED THESE ANIMALS…NOT JUST BET ON AND SPONSORED THEIR FIGHTS. In my eyes, and many others, this is a despicable and unforgivable act. You have to be a seriously disturbed and a fucked up individual to commit those acts on innocent and defenseless animals. Many people claim that he “served his time” or “paid his dues to society”…I’m going to have to respectfully disagree with them on that one. First off, to whom did he serve his time? Did the time he spent in prison un-torture those dogs? I was unaware that a couple of years in lock-up made someone innocent once again. “But other NFL players commit worse crimes and they still play, Jeremiah!” Yup, but does that make his case any more acceptable? No, HELL no. The NFL is messed up as is most professional sports, but I’m not concerned with that right now, I want to take my shots at Mike Vick. I hope, no I pray to whatever God will accept me, that his first play in the NFL someone rips his arms off at the shoulder and toss them to a pair of Pitt Bulls on the sidelines for a mid-Sunday lunch.
So once again Philly recaptures the trophy for scummiest city in the World…sorry Pyongyang…maybe next year.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Phil Hughes Experiment
The question has benn posed whether he should start or be in the pen. Right now without a question he is more valuable as a set up man. As a starter his ERA was 5.45 Thats a fifth starters number. As a reliever his ERA is 1.1 a dominant reliever.
This isnt saying he will stay in the pen forever but as of know it solidifies the Yanks pen. Halladay, Johan, Haren, Joba, Josh Johnson etc all started out in the bullpen and are have great careers. But hell for an ERA of 5.45 claim Harang off waivers for the Reds or start Gaudin
This isnt saying he will stay in the pen forever but as of know it solidifies the Yanks pen. Halladay, Johan, Haren, Joba, Josh Johnson etc all started out in the bullpen and are have great careers. But hell for an ERA of 5.45 claim Harang off waivers for the Reds or start Gaudin
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Holla if you don't give a shit about steroids
I'm going to take a look at the first 10 players listed in the Mitchell Report.
Howie Clark - Career .687 OPS
Chad Allen - Career .710 OPS
Gary Bennett - Career .630 OPS
Mike Bell - Played one season to a .767 OPS
Alex Cabrera - Played one season to a .799 OPS
Mark Carreon - Career .766 OPS
Jason Christiansen - 4.3 career ERA with 5 BB per 9
Kevin Brown - 3.2 career ERA with a 1.2 WHIP
Larry Bigbie - Career .726 OPS
Roger Clemens - no explanation necessary.
So there's 10 players implicated for performance enchancing drug use. One is a Hall of Famer, one is in the Hall of Very Good, two had decent careers, and six just flat out sucked at baseball.
The rest of the Mitchell Report looks about the same way, except less Hall of Famers per 10 names. For every Clemens, Giambi, Pettitte and David Justice implicated, there are 10 Nook Logan's, Cody McKay's, Daniel Naulty's and Adam Piatt's.
There you have it. Clearly, steroids are the miracle drug. Shoot them in your ass and you're instantly going to hit 40 homers and slug .600. Bonds, Arod, Ortiz... none of 'em were any good. It was all the roids.
Let's make this clear: IF YOU SUCKED TO BEGIN WITH, YOU SUCK WITH THE ADDITION OF STEROIDS.
Some might point to David Ortiz as an exception to this. Yes, Ortiz out of nowhere developed power to turn from a 15 HR per year guy in Minnesota to a 40 HR per year guy in Boston. Because Ortiz has always been an extreme flyball hitter - 1709 fly balls, 1400 ground balls - his steroid use gave him the extra "boost" to power them out. Ortiz started with power. Nook Logan never did. Steroids with Nook Logan did nothing but make him less coordinated and slower. Ortiz conveniently in 2007 fell in line with Bill James' "Live fat, decline young" prediction - probably because of the 2005 banning of Andro - and fell back to around 20 HR per year. Ortiz has always had a good eye, leading to a good OBP, and his steroid use may have helped him turn his patient demeanor into better opportunities for homeruns. Without the skill of a patient eye, the steroids would have done nothing. Like in Nook Logan's case.
Brady Anderson is another ridiculous case of steroid usage affecting a player with skill. He always hovered around a .260 batting average, .350 OBP, .420 slugging percentage. A decent player. Averaged around 15 homeruns per season. Probably around league average for the mid '90s.
Then came 1996. He used some steroids, improved his batting average to .297, OBP to .396 and slugging to .637. Surprising, sure. Proof of steroids? Nope. Oh wait. He also hit 50 fucking homeruns. He never broke 24 for the rest of his career. Again, had Brady not been a decent player in the first place, steroids would have had no effect. The fact that people use steroids as a trump card for "INSTANT SKILL" like it's a fucking power-up in a videogame is ridiculous.
Enough with the statistical arguments. How about the no one cares argument?
Does ANYONE give a shit? Show of hands? Is anyone less of a fan of baseball because the players roided up? Does anyone think the game is being tarnished and it's no better than the WWE? If you do, I will confidently say that you are retarded. Ok, sure, I'll pretend you actually care for a minute.
It's 1996 and you just broke into AAA Durham. Everyone around you is hulking up like it's nobody's business and you think you're at an unfair advantage because you're the only one not sticking stuff up your ass (unless you're Mike Piazza since he did that for fun). You're being ignored by management and you succumb to the pressure and roid up. Surprise! It didn't help. You still suck. 10 years later the media sees your name on a list of steroid users and they call you a cheat, say you tarnished the game, and ruined history. Sorry, shame on you for trying to level the playing field.
EVERYONE in the '90s was roiding up. Everyone. I wouldn't even be surprised if Griffey was juicing and he's supposed to be the White Knight of the '90s. From the basis alone of "everyone was doing it," how is it any different in the record books from the Dead Ball era, when pitchers doctored the ball routinely and hitters were terrible?
Remember when ESPN gave a shit about steroids? Remember when they cricified Bonds for it? Even ESPN doesn't care anymore. Even they are over it. And ESPN is the worst thing ever. So please, get over it. And if you don't I'll write another one of these long annoying posts about steroids and nobody wants that.
Friday, August 7, 2009
AFC East
Patriots- they won 11 games last year and missed the playoffs. They added HB Fred Taylor, CB Leigh Bodden, and had multiple draft picks
Strengths- Their entire offense. Brady is back and with the addition of Taylor they are very balanced
Weaknesses- their defense is suspect. Their corners arent that good, Bruschi is getting old and they have unknowns at DE and OLB.
Prediction- They win their division by outscoring teams
Dolphins- they drafted CB Vonta Davis and QB/WR Pat White. They added OL Justin Smiley, Jake Grove, and Brandon Frye, also DB Eric Green and Gibril Wilson
Strengths- their rushing attack is great now with Pat White running the wildcat it should help them more. Also their defense is great and very physical
Weaknesses- their conference is tough and their passing attck isnt great. They lack a true number 1 receiver and Pennington isnt great.
Prediction- the wildcat wont catch teams off guard and they wont supply enough offense to win games. They finish third and miss the playoffs
Bills- they played well last year but faded at the end. They drafted DE Aaron Maybin and added WR Terrell Owens and OL Langston Walker
Strengths- they have a very deep receiving core, Trent Edwards is prime for a big year and they can run the ball.
Weaknesses- They lost their two best linemen and could be rough on the offense. Their secondary and linebackers are inexperienced.
Prediction- They put up a lot of points finish last and miss the playoffs
Jets- they added LB Bart Scott, DB Jim Leonard, DE Marques Douglas, and CB Lito Sheperard. They drafted Mark Sanchez and RB Shonn Greene.
Strengths- their running games is great especially with their o line. Their defense should be great with the help of new head coach
weaknesses- Mark Sanchez is a rookie and lacks big time receivers.
Prediction- they play hard and finish second just missing the playoffs
Strengths- Their entire offense. Brady is back and with the addition of Taylor they are very balanced
Weaknesses- their defense is suspect. Their corners arent that good, Bruschi is getting old and they have unknowns at DE and OLB.
Prediction- They win their division by outscoring teams
Dolphins- they drafted CB Vonta Davis and QB/WR Pat White. They added OL Justin Smiley, Jake Grove, and Brandon Frye, also DB Eric Green and Gibril Wilson
Strengths- their rushing attack is great now with Pat White running the wildcat it should help them more. Also their defense is great and very physical
Weaknesses- their conference is tough and their passing attck isnt great. They lack a true number 1 receiver and Pennington isnt great.
Prediction- the wildcat wont catch teams off guard and they wont supply enough offense to win games. They finish third and miss the playoffs
Bills- they played well last year but faded at the end. They drafted DE Aaron Maybin and added WR Terrell Owens and OL Langston Walker
Strengths- they have a very deep receiving core, Trent Edwards is prime for a big year and they can run the ball.
Weaknesses- They lost their two best linemen and could be rough on the offense. Their secondary and linebackers are inexperienced.
Prediction- They put up a lot of points finish last and miss the playoffs
Jets- they added LB Bart Scott, DB Jim Leonard, DE Marques Douglas, and CB Lito Sheperard. They drafted Mark Sanchez and RB Shonn Greene.
Strengths- their running games is great especially with their o line. Their defense should be great with the help of new head coach
weaknesses- Mark Sanchez is a rookie and lacks big time receivers.
Prediction- they play hard and finish second just missing the playoffs
Thursday, August 6, 2009
NFC West
Continuing my breakdown of the divisions I move onto the NFC West
Seahawks- they might have had one of the best offseasons plus they get healthy this year. They signed WR TJ Houshmanzadeh, FB Justin Griffith, DT Colin Cole, and traded for DT Cory Redding. In the draft the got OLB Aaron Curry and OL Max Unger.
Strengths- A brand new season. Last year they were plagued by the injury bug. But now Hasselbeck and others are healthy. WRs are their biggest strength the have Housmanzadeh, Deion Branch, Nate Burleson, and TE John Carlson. They have Jones, Duckett, and Forsett at RB and they have one of the best LB core in football with Curry, Tatupu, and Hill
Weaknesses- their running backs are good but not great. Jones shows potential but is fragile. Maybe duckett and Forsett can take pressure off of him
Prediction- they are the best team in that division if healthy they win it
Cardinals- drafted Beanie Wells in the draft and signed CB Bryant McFadden
Strengths- Offense, offense and offense. Fitz Boldin, Breaston, Hightower, and Wells are nightmares for D Coordinators. Their secondary is great with Rodgers-Cromartie and McFadden at Corner and Rolle and Wilson at safety they are set.
Weaknesses- their front seven are suspect. They were great in the playoffs but a lack of pass rush could hurt them.
Prediction- they finish second but make it as a wildcard
49ers- they signed CB Dre Bly, DE Justin Smith and OT Marvel Smith. They also drafted Michael Crabtree and RB Glen Coffee.
Strengths- Running game. Their O Line is built to punish and with Gore, Coffee, and Robinson they will run the ball down your throat. Their defense is real good under Mike Singletary.
Weaknesses- QB. They have WRs that are good, a great running game, a solid line, and pass catching tight end and a great D but no QB.
Prediction- Singletary plays them hard and they play tough but dont be surprised when they draft a QB next year.
Rams- added steve Spagnuolo as their coach and their young defense should benefit. The drafted LB James Laurinitis, OT Jason Smith and signed FB Mike Karney, C Jason Brown, and S James Butler
Strenghs- Their RBs and O Line. They built their O Line to support the ground attck with S Jax and keep Bulger upright. Their defense is young and DL could created pressure with Long, Carriker, Smith, and Little and Witherspoon coming off the edge.
Weaknesses- LBers and WRs. They have a young group with no number one wideout and aside from Witherspoon there linebackers arent great.
Prediction- its a rough year but Spags keeps them competitive
Seahawks- they might have had one of the best offseasons plus they get healthy this year. They signed WR TJ Houshmanzadeh, FB Justin Griffith, DT Colin Cole, and traded for DT Cory Redding. In the draft the got OLB Aaron Curry and OL Max Unger.
Strengths- A brand new season. Last year they were plagued by the injury bug. But now Hasselbeck and others are healthy. WRs are their biggest strength the have Housmanzadeh, Deion Branch, Nate Burleson, and TE John Carlson. They have Jones, Duckett, and Forsett at RB and they have one of the best LB core in football with Curry, Tatupu, and Hill
Weaknesses- their running backs are good but not great. Jones shows potential but is fragile. Maybe duckett and Forsett can take pressure off of him
Prediction- they are the best team in that division if healthy they win it
Cardinals- drafted Beanie Wells in the draft and signed CB Bryant McFadden
Strengths- Offense, offense and offense. Fitz Boldin, Breaston, Hightower, and Wells are nightmares for D Coordinators. Their secondary is great with Rodgers-Cromartie and McFadden at Corner and Rolle and Wilson at safety they are set.
Weaknesses- their front seven are suspect. They were great in the playoffs but a lack of pass rush could hurt them.
Prediction- they finish second but make it as a wildcard
49ers- they signed CB Dre Bly, DE Justin Smith and OT Marvel Smith. They also drafted Michael Crabtree and RB Glen Coffee.
Strengths- Running game. Their O Line is built to punish and with Gore, Coffee, and Robinson they will run the ball down your throat. Their defense is real good under Mike Singletary.
Weaknesses- QB. They have WRs that are good, a great running game, a solid line, and pass catching tight end and a great D but no QB.
Prediction- Singletary plays them hard and they play tough but dont be surprised when they draft a QB next year.
Rams- added steve Spagnuolo as their coach and their young defense should benefit. The drafted LB James Laurinitis, OT Jason Smith and signed FB Mike Karney, C Jason Brown, and S James Butler
Strenghs- Their RBs and O Line. They built their O Line to support the ground attck with S Jax and keep Bulger upright. Their defense is young and DL could created pressure with Long, Carriker, Smith, and Little and Witherspoon coming off the edge.
Weaknesses- LBers and WRs. They have a young group with no number one wideout and aside from Witherspoon there linebackers arent great.
Prediction- its a rough year but Spags keeps them competitive
Monday, August 3, 2009
M-1 is a Leech on MMA - Why Fedor wont fight in the UFC
The article below is the whole reason for writing this little blog. Read it if you want but its long and I note any points that I want to talk about in the blog, and I think my IQ took a dip from reading Jerry Millen douche up the place. He's like Dana White but without anything to back his words up (not even logic).
M-1 Official: UFC Is WWE of MMA
http://mma.fanhouse.com/2009/07/31/m-1-official-ufc-is-wwe-of-mma/
(pretty much some bull where M-1 VP Jerry Millen blames Dana White for the Fedor deal falling through and call the UFC greedy, Typical posturing with a lot of fallacious logic)
The Backstory:
Affliction's folding has left the worlds top heavyweight, Fedor Emelianenko, jobless. So for the past week the UFC, the worlds top MMA promotion, has been trying to sign the fighter. The signing fell through.
Why M-1 and Millen suck:
Why has the deal with Fedor fallen through? One person. One person (well one organization) whom every MMA fan should hate: Jerry Millen. You know the guy that took Pride and ran it straight into the ground. Because M-1, the company that owns Fedor's current contract and the company that Millen represents, is making exorbitant demands for a single fighter.
Basically they want to “co-promote.” Both parties, UFC and M-1, add up the fighters purses the rent on the arena guard and all the other costs of running an event then split the costs down the middle. Then the two parties “[are] willing to take half the profit or half the loss” (Millen).
The profit splitting sounds harmless right? Except that the UFC hasn't lost money on a card since 2004. Its like going up to McDonald's and saying I want to do business with you. I've got this great idea for a new McBurger. You pay for half of your company's operating costs I'll pay the other half. Then in return we'll split the profit. No one would agree to that. McDonald's took a risk just to start a business and now that the cash is coming in in dump trucks I want to take a piece.
For example, if it costs McDonald's $100 to stay in business, and they make a gross profit of $1000 with out the new McBurger. Then the company makes $1000. With me some new guy off the street the starting cost is $50 each. Now say with the new McBurger they rake in $1500. Then McDonald's has to have to split $1500 with me. So $750 each. In other words by splitting McDonald's lost $250.
The UFC – M-1 co-promotion is the same idea as the new burger. M-1 is offering the new fighter but because the UFC is already an established brand the card regardless of whose on it will make huge amounts of money regardless of whether the new expensive fighter is on it or not. So the UFC makes more money without the co-promotion. Bottom line the UFC is a business and it or any business for that matter are not willing to let some upstart ride their coattails, steal their money and damage their reputation. If M-1 wants to join up with the UFC then they should pay at least half of the hundreds of millions in losses that the UFC ate for a decade. Actually more because there is no risk involved and they eventually would make all of that money back.
The real situation is even worse than the McDonald's example. Brock Lesnar's fight against Randy Couture brought in roughly 700k-900k PPV buys, and after his shit talking and antics is worth even more so figure 1million buys (to make the math easy). Fedor's Affliction shows on the other hand only brought in about 100k buys each. So if each buy is $50, then Lesnar is worth $50 million dollars, and Fedor only $5 million. Its like a rival company wanting to split the profits but only make 10 percent of the cash. This of course discount the UFC's marketing ability. With the UFC behind him Fedor could be made into a money making force, especially with his background, but without the UFC Fedor isn't worth shit. In other words Fedor, Millen, and M-1 give almost nothing and take half.
M-1 still wants to co-promote in spite of the fact that they're basically getting free advertising for Fedor, introduction into the largest MMA fan base in the world, and would probably be able to get massive advertising deals from every company promoting the UFC from Budweiser to Tapout. Now throw $2 million dollars a fight on top of that, more money than the UFC pays the entire rest of the card combined. The fact that Dana White even was willing to let Fedor compete in combat sambo (basically MMA in pads and headgear) whenever he wanted just shows how greedy the M-1 is. They say they want to do whats best for the sport but really they just want to huge piles of UFC gold.
Millen also says that they would split any losses. But M-1 has been attached to two company's that have gone under, Bodog and Affliction. Affliction paid Fedor 300k and M-1 the other million when every other big name on the card made a million dollars by themselves. Thats not co promoting thats the some thing boxing promoters do to their fighter: Do none of the work and take most of the money. Its part of what killed boxing and M-1 is trying to do the same in MMA. In other words M-1 used Bodog and Affliction to make some quick cash then bailed when If they are truly willing to split the losses why is M-1 still around? Because there nothing but a group of leeches. When the money's flowing they take it like the greedy bastards they are but when the ship starts sinking they're the first to jump off.
UFC is the WWE of MMA:
Sure UFC is the leading, basically the only, MMA organization around effectively making them the force in the sport like WWE, but honestly who cares. All the best fighters would stay competing and fighting against each other at a high tier of combat. As an added plus, with one MMA organization, MMA wont turn into boxing with 4 world boxing authorities that refuse to unify the heavyweight championship (or any championship) meaning only the best champ and no alienated disenfranchised fans.
To summarize, Millen and M-1 simply want to take money from an established enterprise and in doing so are detrimental to the sport. Without Fedor the UFC can still continue to grow with him they will simply lose money unless M-1 gets much less greedy (which almost certainly ain't happening).
Jerry Millen says that competing organizations is good for MMA, that co-promoting is good for MMA. He's wrong (he's like 0-5 in this paper). A single elite organization was necessary so that MMA doesn't stagnate and end up like boxing.
One final thought:
throughout the article Millen, continually states that the UFC's determination not to accept the deal is a hindrance to the sport and that they should accept the deal. He repeatedly says that the UFC is holding back the sport. But why should the premier power in MMA bend to the will of a tiny organization with only a single chip. The UFC shouldn't. The only people holding up the sport up are M-1 and Millen. If any thing they should let Fedor take his million bucks per fight and then take 10% managers fees like the leeches they are.
Personally I think M-1 will fold in a year or two and Fedor will be forced into the UFC but he's already 32 years old and not getting any younger. Lets just hope that when Fedor finally ends up in the Octogon he still has some juice in the tank.
This has all been my opinion, hope you liked it
- Joe
Sunday, August 2, 2009
The Dog Days Race
With the trade deadline past and only two months in the season left Im= am going to make my predictions of AL and NL teams, and awards.
AL East- Yankees: added utilityman Jerry Hairston Jr which gives them a solid back up. They spent too much money to come in second. Sabathia is know for his second halfs and so is Burnett. Joba looks to have found his stride and Hughes is the setup man. Everyone knows they can score runs especially in New Yankee Stadium. Dog Fight til the end but the beat boston by 2 games
AL Central- White Sox: adding Jake Peavy seals it for me I like their staff over the Tigers and maybe over anyone else. They have been scoring runs behind Dye, Thome, Pierzynski, Konerko, and Ramirez. Gordon Beckham the rookie has been great at third and the signing of Scott Posednik might be the best move they did, he is getting on base and producing runs. They win the division handedly.
AL West- Angels: how can you pick againstthem they are 4.5 games up with Vlad and Torii on the DL. Their pitching has struggled early this year but is coming around. They run away with this division once they get healthy. Just proof you need to hold on to your prospcets because Aybar, Izturits, and Morales have been great.
AL Wildcard- Red Sox:their starting pitching is alright their bullpen is great and adding V-Mart and Kotchamn pushes their offense and them in the playoffs with Youk, Pedroia, Bay, and Ellsbury they have a great offense now
Contenders- Rays and Tigers push for a spot but come up short
AL MVP- Mark Texeira. I think Morneau deserves it but since the Twins dont make the playoffs its a disadvantage.
AL Cy Young- Felix Hernandez. Greinke wont get enough wins and Justin Verlander comes up just short
AL R.O.Y- Andrew Bailey. Beckham and Brett Gardner are runner ups
NL East- Phillies: they added Lee and the rotation is great. Ibanez, Howard, Utley, Werth, and even Feliz are raking and J Roll is coming around. Only problem is Lidge is very very very hittable this year. Marlins fight to the end but go down swinging
NL Central- Cardinals: add Holliday, Lugo, and DeRosa to a lineup already with Pujols, Ludwick, Shumacker, and Molina; and you have a very good lineup. Their pitching is good and so is the pen. They are in a division with the Cubs, Astros, and Brewers and should be competitive til the last game.
NL West- Dodgers: great offense, great pitching, and now great pen. Their entire team rakes and ther pitching is fantastic. they win big.
NL Wildcard- Giants: they have great pitching and a great pen. Adding Garko and Sanchez was huge to team with Sandoval, Rowand, Renteria, and Molina. The wildcard race will be crazy but they sqeak in and dont be surprised if the go deep in the playoffs because of their 1-2 punch of Lincecum and Cain
NL MVP- Albert Pujols
NL Cy Young- Tim Lincecum
NL R.O.Y- Tommy Hanson. Colby Rasmus is the runner up
AL East- Yankees: added utilityman Jerry Hairston Jr which gives them a solid back up. They spent too much money to come in second. Sabathia is know for his second halfs and so is Burnett. Joba looks to have found his stride and Hughes is the setup man. Everyone knows they can score runs especially in New Yankee Stadium. Dog Fight til the end but the beat boston by 2 games
AL Central- White Sox: adding Jake Peavy seals it for me I like their staff over the Tigers and maybe over anyone else. They have been scoring runs behind Dye, Thome, Pierzynski, Konerko, and Ramirez. Gordon Beckham the rookie has been great at third and the signing of Scott Posednik might be the best move they did, he is getting on base and producing runs. They win the division handedly.
AL West- Angels: how can you pick againstthem they are 4.5 games up with Vlad and Torii on the DL. Their pitching has struggled early this year but is coming around. They run away with this division once they get healthy. Just proof you need to hold on to your prospcets because Aybar, Izturits, and Morales have been great.
AL Wildcard- Red Sox:their starting pitching is alright their bullpen is great and adding V-Mart and Kotchamn pushes their offense and them in the playoffs with Youk, Pedroia, Bay, and Ellsbury they have a great offense now
Contenders- Rays and Tigers push for a spot but come up short
AL MVP- Mark Texeira. I think Morneau deserves it but since the Twins dont make the playoffs its a disadvantage.
AL Cy Young- Felix Hernandez. Greinke wont get enough wins and Justin Verlander comes up just short
AL R.O.Y- Andrew Bailey. Beckham and Brett Gardner are runner ups
NL East- Phillies: they added Lee and the rotation is great. Ibanez, Howard, Utley, Werth, and even Feliz are raking and J Roll is coming around. Only problem is Lidge is very very very hittable this year. Marlins fight to the end but go down swinging
NL Central- Cardinals: add Holliday, Lugo, and DeRosa to a lineup already with Pujols, Ludwick, Shumacker, and Molina; and you have a very good lineup. Their pitching is good and so is the pen. They are in a division with the Cubs, Astros, and Brewers and should be competitive til the last game.
NL West- Dodgers: great offense, great pitching, and now great pen. Their entire team rakes and ther pitching is fantastic. they win big.
NL Wildcard- Giants: they have great pitching and a great pen. Adding Garko and Sanchez was huge to team with Sandoval, Rowand, Renteria, and Molina. The wildcard race will be crazy but they sqeak in and dont be surprised if the go deep in the playoffs because of their 1-2 punch of Lincecum and Cain
NL MVP- Albert Pujols
NL Cy Young- Tim Lincecum
NL R.O.Y- Tommy Hanson. Colby Rasmus is the runner up
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Football vs. Futbol: Does America have room for the World's Pastime...
Jeremiah: So...with the rising glory of American soccer...can America finally accept the world's pastime as one of its own?
Mike:It really depends on how much of a frontrunner America decides to be... and since it's been shown in the Olympics and the World Baseball Classic that we really don't care until we're owning and winning everything... things don't look good.
Jeremiah: But even if we're the best, even if we dominate the world of soccer and wipe the floor with the Brazilians causing Pele to roll over in his grave, Americans will never accept soccer even though it brings together all of the things that Americans love.
Mike:Teamwork, athleticism and hot chicks dressed up in patriotic colors... but that's the thing, how do we know we won't accept the sport? Look at the US team about a month ago. We beat Spain and got to the Confederations Cup final and suddenly people gave a shit about soccer. Think how much bigger that wave of support would have been if we consistently dominated. If we weren't rolling out the MLS All Stars to play against Portugal, which is pretty much the European Continent All Stars, then yeah maybe we'd have a chance and we'd get more than 16 fans per game.
Jeremiah:One word: pride. We Americans are too scared to say we love anything foreign and unfortunately soccer, er, futbol, has been forever labeled a foreign sport. Even though soccer is extremely exciting, fast paced, and full of most things we as Americans love, most of the populace would rather watch toothless rednecks race around an oval 500 times.
Mike:Well that's why we need to put an American brand on it. I'm not saying we should start making it full contact, but if we get some charismatic stars and stop relying on David Beckham to be our Albert Pujols, Americans will take a hold of the sport. It's just a joke that Landon Donovan is our biggest star when the guy's biggest claim to fame is that he's shy, quiet, chokes under pressure, and whines about his team. We tried to market Freddy Adu as the second-coming but that failed too. We're just stuck without a big centerpiece. Find a soccer equivalent of Arod or Pujols and we'll get the casual fan to convert.
Jeremiah:What if we took it a step further? Americans love three things: porn, McDonalds, and spending money. Let's give Steinbrenner the reins to an American Premier League and have him buy up every European star. Hell to buy Liverpool FC it would only cost him 300million pounds. Think of all the corporate sponsors that would take hold of that enterprise. Here's the catch, we have to convince fans of Shaq and Tony Stewart to start rooting for guys like Lionel Messi and Fernando Torres.
Mike's Final Thoughts: First off, I never want Steinbrenner to touch anything else in the world that I enjoy. But I do like the idea that we need to make the MLS a league that players want to come to the States for. Beckham was supposed to be the first, but he ended up being the only one. It’s totally impossible for us to buy guys like Messi or Torres because there’s no way that they leave the top competition in the world for the MLS, but if we get just a FEW decent European stars, the level of play will increase tenfold.So yeah, the first step is to just improve the league. If the MLS shapes up, we can produce better national teams. Better national teams mean less embarrassing losses in the World Cup. Less embarrassing losses obviously means we are no longer the laughing stock of the soccer world. Of course all this is easier said than done. But the point stands true: Americans will take a hold of the sport and embrace it as one of their own as long as we don’t keep playing the role of underdog. We don’t like being the underdog. We like going into competitions as the favorite. The potential for fandom is there, we just need to win.
Jeremiah’s Final Thoughts: So to answer the original question of, Can Americans finally accept soccer in to their lives? No, at least not a for a good while. Should we? Most certainly. Every time I try to sell soccer to a non-futbol lover, I always get the same excuses and in my closing thoughts I’d like to dismiss some of them.
1) “It’s so boring! The scores are like 2-1…in a good game!” First off, how is it even bad that a game is low scoring? I personally love the buildup of 2-1 soccer games or pitching duels where a decisive 8th can make or break a game. But to address it directly, a 21-14 game of football would seem normal when in reality its only 3-2. Just because you get seven points instead of one doesn’t mean a team is scoring any more. Plus, games are only 90 minutes long…with virtually no commercials! (save for halftime) Average baseball games are around two hours if you’re lucky, probably even closer to three hours. Its fast paced, even though its low scoring, the suspense and waiting are what makes matches so spectacular. That being said, I really wish they’d do away with ties outside of pool play.
2) “C’mon, those guys fall down like every other play!” It’s all part of the strategy folks. Unfortunately soccer players don’t get to take a break every down, or even get subbed out every game. That’s right, at least 9 of the 11 players on the field have to play the full ninety minutes non-stop, trying doing that without faking an injury to suck some wind. And besides, if a D-Lineman could get tossed out for jumping offsides, or clipping, don’t you think a meaty O-Lineman would be rolling around on the ground every other down to take rival players off the field?
3) “This is America, I watch Americans play sports!” Oh really? Take a look around the MLB…now the NHL…now even the NBA. Foreigners have found an athletic niche in American Sports and they aren’t leaving anytime soon. If they played American style Football overseas we’d see crazy Slavs, Mc’s, and Aussies turning their rugby skills into Linebacker phenoms.
One last thing, 5.5 million people tuned in for the NASCAR Spring Cup: Lenox Industrial Tools 500 last month…I never want to hear again that soccer is too boring for us.
Mike:It really depends on how much of a frontrunner America decides to be... and since it's been shown in the Olympics and the World Baseball Classic that we really don't care until we're owning and winning everything... things don't look good.
Jeremiah: But even if we're the best, even if we dominate the world of soccer and wipe the floor with the Brazilians causing Pele to roll over in his grave, Americans will never accept soccer even though it brings together all of the things that Americans love.
Mike:Teamwork, athleticism and hot chicks dressed up in patriotic colors... but that's the thing, how do we know we won't accept the sport? Look at the US team about a month ago. We beat Spain and got to the Confederations Cup final and suddenly people gave a shit about soccer. Think how much bigger that wave of support would have been if we consistently dominated. If we weren't rolling out the MLS All Stars to play against Portugal, which is pretty much the European Continent All Stars, then yeah maybe we'd have a chance and we'd get more than 16 fans per game.
Jeremiah:One word: pride. We Americans are too scared to say we love anything foreign and unfortunately soccer, er, futbol, has been forever labeled a foreign sport. Even though soccer is extremely exciting, fast paced, and full of most things we as Americans love, most of the populace would rather watch toothless rednecks race around an oval 500 times.
Mike:Well that's why we need to put an American brand on it. I'm not saying we should start making it full contact, but if we get some charismatic stars and stop relying on David Beckham to be our Albert Pujols, Americans will take a hold of the sport. It's just a joke that Landon Donovan is our biggest star when the guy's biggest claim to fame is that he's shy, quiet, chokes under pressure, and whines about his team. We tried to market Freddy Adu as the second-coming but that failed too. We're just stuck without a big centerpiece. Find a soccer equivalent of Arod or Pujols and we'll get the casual fan to convert.
Jeremiah:What if we took it a step further? Americans love three things: porn, McDonalds, and spending money. Let's give Steinbrenner the reins to an American Premier League and have him buy up every European star. Hell to buy Liverpool FC it would only cost him 300million pounds. Think of all the corporate sponsors that would take hold of that enterprise. Here's the catch, we have to convince fans of Shaq and Tony Stewart to start rooting for guys like Lionel Messi and Fernando Torres.
Mike's Final Thoughts: First off, I never want Steinbrenner to touch anything else in the world that I enjoy. But I do like the idea that we need to make the MLS a league that players want to come to the States for. Beckham was supposed to be the first, but he ended up being the only one. It’s totally impossible for us to buy guys like Messi or Torres because there’s no way that they leave the top competition in the world for the MLS, but if we get just a FEW decent European stars, the level of play will increase tenfold.So yeah, the first step is to just improve the league. If the MLS shapes up, we can produce better national teams. Better national teams mean less embarrassing losses in the World Cup. Less embarrassing losses obviously means we are no longer the laughing stock of the soccer world. Of course all this is easier said than done. But the point stands true: Americans will take a hold of the sport and embrace it as one of their own as long as we don’t keep playing the role of underdog. We don’t like being the underdog. We like going into competitions as the favorite. The potential for fandom is there, we just need to win.
Jeremiah’s Final Thoughts: So to answer the original question of, Can Americans finally accept soccer in to their lives? No, at least not a for a good while. Should we? Most certainly. Every time I try to sell soccer to a non-futbol lover, I always get the same excuses and in my closing thoughts I’d like to dismiss some of them.
1) “It’s so boring! The scores are like 2-1…in a good game!” First off, how is it even bad that a game is low scoring? I personally love the buildup of 2-1 soccer games or pitching duels where a decisive 8th can make or break a game. But to address it directly, a 21-14 game of football would seem normal when in reality its only 3-2. Just because you get seven points instead of one doesn’t mean a team is scoring any more. Plus, games are only 90 minutes long…with virtually no commercials! (save for halftime) Average baseball games are around two hours if you’re lucky, probably even closer to three hours. Its fast paced, even though its low scoring, the suspense and waiting are what makes matches so spectacular. That being said, I really wish they’d do away with ties outside of pool play.
2) “C’mon, those guys fall down like every other play!” It’s all part of the strategy folks. Unfortunately soccer players don’t get to take a break every down, or even get subbed out every game. That’s right, at least 9 of the 11 players on the field have to play the full ninety minutes non-stop, trying doing that without faking an injury to suck some wind. And besides, if a D-Lineman could get tossed out for jumping offsides, or clipping, don’t you think a meaty O-Lineman would be rolling around on the ground every other down to take rival players off the field?
3) “This is America, I watch Americans play sports!” Oh really? Take a look around the MLB…now the NHL…now even the NBA. Foreigners have found an athletic niche in American Sports and they aren’t leaving anytime soon. If they played American style Football overseas we’d see crazy Slavs, Mc’s, and Aussies turning their rugby skills into Linebacker phenoms.
One last thing, 5.5 million people tuned in for the NASCAR Spring Cup: Lenox Industrial Tools 500 last month…I never want to hear again that soccer is too boring for us.
Friday, July 31, 2009
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
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
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
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.
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.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
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.
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.
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