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Monday, January 31, 2011
Orioles Sign Justin Duchscherer
"Free agent pitcher Justin Duchscherer has reached agreement on a one-year major league contract with the Baltimore Orioles, reports ESPN.com's Jerry Crasnick (ESPN)."
Duchscherer when he plays is very good, but much like Eric Bedard just can't seem to find a way to stay on the field. He has suffered from everything from hip problems to depression. Still, it's only a one year deal, and the Orioles have a ton of young pitching talent behind him, so it is kind of a no lose scenario. Duchscherer can be a reliever also, but he has stated that he wants to be in the rotation, and I would think that's where they will put him to start the season.
What The Hell Is Wrong With Justin Morneau?
It has been 7 months since Twins first baseman Justin Morneau took a knee to the head in Toronto and suffered a concussion that would put an end to his 2010 season. We were surprised that he wasn't able to make it back before the end of the season, but now it seems he is still having some trouble...
Twins general manager Bill Smith spoke about the matter on Saturday with ESPN 1500 AM:
“It’s still a work in progress,” Smith said. “He is not 100%, but I’ve talked to his doctors, I’ve talked to him. He’s getting better all the time, he’s doing very good workouts. We only want to go through this process one time. We want him to get healed, get back on the field and resume his career without having that rollercoaster up and down (NBC Sports).”
How bad was this concussion? I mean Aaron Rodgers has had two this year, and was able to come back in no more then 2 weeks, yet Morneau has had 7 months and his head still isn't right. I'm no doctor, and I'm not going to call him out for being a wuss, but this is all very strange to me.
People don't talk about Morneau a lot, but he is one of the best first basemen in the AL. In 2010 he was able to put up good stats even though he only played 81 games (.345 BA, .437 OBP, 18 HRs, 56 RBIs). If you build on those numbers over an entire season and we are talking about a guy who could challenge for MVP. Typically he is around a .300 hitter with about 30 HRs 115 RBIs, and is still only 29 years old.
The Twins are really going to need him to be 100%, so hopefully he can get over this concussion before Spring Training starts up.
Pacers Fire Jim O'Brien
"Jim O'Brien was fired as the head coach of the Indiana Pacers on Sunday and assistant coach Frank Vogel, 37, was promoted to the top spot for the duration of the season. The Pacers are only 17-27 this season and two games out of the eighth playoff spot in the Eastern Conference (ESPN)."
Jim O'Brien really hasn't done anything since joining the Pacers, so this isn't really much of a surprised (even though he didn't have a ton to work with). Along with a poor record the Pacers weren't happy with the treatment of some of their players. O'Brien has publicly been very harsh on Roy Hibbert, and really never found very much playing time for Tyler Hansbrough. This didn't sit well with Larry Bird...
"I never did that when I was a coach and I didn't like it when I was a player," Bird said. "If you look at some of our players, especially Roy, he looks like he's down. He's not running around, not having a good time like he was earlier. Obviously it's affecting him (ESPN)."
The Pacers are far off from being a good team, but they could squeak into the playoffs if they get some more inspired play from their players after this move.
TOP 25 UNDER 25 - #25 Rory McIlroy
Rory McIlroy - PGA Tour, Northern Ireland
There might be some surprise to see McIlroy, a golfer, on this list. However, he is definitely deserving of the recognition. Aside from Tiger Woods, young golfer's don't usually burst onto the scene with this kind of hype. For most golfers it takes a number of years to become stars on tour, and for many it also takes a while before they start winning. And in fact, McIlroy became the first golfer since Woods to win a PGA event before his 21st birthday.
As an amteur, McIlroy was noted for his long distance off the tee - even called a phenom by many of golf's biggest stars. He has drawn more comparisons to Tiger than any other young golfer (think Lebron comparisons to MJ).
2010 was a breakout year for McIlroy on the PGA Tour. He won his first tour event at the Quail Hollow Championships, including a course record 62 in the final round. He followed that up in July at The Open Championship (St. Andrew's) with the lowest ever opening round in the tournament. (We're talking about the oldest tournament in golf!) That score was also another course record for McIlroy. On the 2nd day he got stuck in some terrible weather and posted an 80, but recovered over the weekend to finish in a tie for 3rd overall.
At the PGA he also finished tied for 3rd, after he lipped out a putt on 15 that would have put him in a tie-breaker for the championship. The T3 at the PGA was his third Top 3 finish at a major since turning pro.
Despite all the tour accomplishments in 2010 it was probably his performance at the Ryder Cup that cemented McIlroy's status as the next big thing in golf. He played brilliantly for Team Europe after saying earlier in the year that the event was merely an exhibition and was far down on his list of priorities. Following the Europe win he sang a different tune, being quoted as saying, "this is the best event in golf by far."
He's also a bit of a brash smack talker - a quality normally lost on the European athletes. McIlroy was the one who called out Tiger woods prior to his return to golf, saying that he wasn't the best player on the U.S. team (true), and that anyone on the European team would fancy there chances against Tiger (also true).
The one downside to McIlroy (perhaps due to his new found relationship with his European teammates) is that we don't get to see enough of him on the PGA tour. He plays the majors and some other select events throughout the season, but plays more heavily on the European tour. He and fellow Brit, Lee Westwood, recently pulled out of The Player's Championship, one of the premier events on tour so that they could play another event in Europe. With so many, burgeoning young players coming from Europe - Martin Kaymer, Justin Rose, Ian Poulter, Graeme McDowell, etc. - it'd be a shame to see this become a popular trend. The two tours need to figure out a schedule that allows players from both sides to play all the premier events.
Despite his limited appearances, though, expect to see plenty of McIlroy near the tops of leaderboards throughout the season. He figures to be a factor in any event he plays. That's more than I can say about Tiger at this point.
Perfect.
There might be some surprise to see McIlroy, a golfer, on this list. However, he is definitely deserving of the recognition. Aside from Tiger Woods, young golfer's don't usually burst onto the scene with this kind of hype. For most golfers it takes a number of years to become stars on tour, and for many it also takes a while before they start winning. And in fact, McIlroy became the first golfer since Woods to win a PGA event before his 21st birthday.
As an amteur, McIlroy was noted for his long distance off the tee - even called a phenom by many of golf's biggest stars. He has drawn more comparisons to Tiger than any other young golfer (think Lebron comparisons to MJ).
2010 was a breakout year for McIlroy on the PGA Tour. He won his first tour event at the Quail Hollow Championships, including a course record 62 in the final round. He followed that up in July at The Open Championship (St. Andrew's) with the lowest ever opening round in the tournament. (We're talking about the oldest tournament in golf!) That score was also another course record for McIlroy. On the 2nd day he got stuck in some terrible weather and posted an 80, but recovered over the weekend to finish in a tie for 3rd overall.
At the PGA he also finished tied for 3rd, after he lipped out a putt on 15 that would have put him in a tie-breaker for the championship. The T3 at the PGA was his third Top 3 finish at a major since turning pro.
Despite all the tour accomplishments in 2010 it was probably his performance at the Ryder Cup that cemented McIlroy's status as the next big thing in golf. He played brilliantly for Team Europe after saying earlier in the year that the event was merely an exhibition and was far down on his list of priorities. Following the Europe win he sang a different tune, being quoted as saying, "this is the best event in golf by far."
He's also a bit of a brash smack talker - a quality normally lost on the European athletes. McIlroy was the one who called out Tiger woods prior to his return to golf, saying that he wasn't the best player on the U.S. team (true), and that anyone on the European team would fancy there chances against Tiger (also true).
The one downside to McIlroy (perhaps due to his new found relationship with his European teammates) is that we don't get to see enough of him on the PGA tour. He plays the majors and some other select events throughout the season, but plays more heavily on the European tour. He and fellow Brit, Lee Westwood, recently pulled out of The Player's Championship, one of the premier events on tour so that they could play another event in Europe. With so many, burgeoning young players coming from Europe - Martin Kaymer, Justin Rose, Ian Poulter, Graeme McDowell, etc. - it'd be a shame to see this become a popular trend. The two tours need to figure out a schedule that allows players from both sides to play all the premier events.
Despite his limited appearances, though, expect to see plenty of McIlroy near the tops of leaderboards throughout the season. He figures to be a factor in any event he plays. That's more than I can say about Tiger at this point.
Perfect.
WTF Snow!
We are getting a foot and a half tomorrow. WTF. Seriously, It's fun having school off when your younger, but now it's the biggest nuisance in the world. It makes the commute to work worse, it makes everything awful. And since we apparently live in fucking Alaska where is the snow going to go. We already can't park anywhere. I seriously have to park on a mountain of snow everyday at work. It makes me get double to work if I miss a day of work, the boss doesn't realize that and everyone is pissed the day after. I normally love snow, but enough is enough!
Like Danny Glover says, I'm getting too old for this shit.
Eagles Tag Mike Vick
The Philadelphia Eagles will make it official next month and place their franchise tag on quarterback Michael Vick, a league source has confirmed.
The move will prevent Vick from leaving Philadelphia this offseason and ensure he's tied to the Eagles for the 2011 season. ESPN
Vick made $5.25 million in 2010 but would make an estimated $20 million -- the average salary for the five highest-paid quarterbacks in the league -- if he is designated the Eagles' franchise player. So much for him being in financial trouble.
This is the right move for the Eagles. Mike Vick had an outstanding year, and should be their QB for the future. The Eagles still have Kevin Kolb for 1.4 million this year, and I see no reason to get rid of him, unless someone blows you away. With Vick's crazy style of play they constantly need a QB on call.
With Vick running the offense the Eagles should be on top of the NFC East for years to come.
Team Lidstrom 11, Team Staal 10
Why do we criticize All-Star Games so much? Is it because we're jealous of the good old days when Pete Rose took an exhibition game too seriously (probably because he had ten large riding on it) and ended some guy's career in order to win a contest over nothing?
Players don't take All-Star Games seriously. Nor should they. About two decades ago, they all realized that they have more in common with players on opposing teams than they do with their coaches, their teams' executives, their teams' owners, and even their fans. So why the hell would they go out, risk their health, and risk the health of their colleagues, for some meaningless exhibition?
I'm glad the NHL isn't trying to make players take the All-Star Game seriously. Unlike Major League Baseball. And MLB has the best ASG anyhow, so they shouldn't bother with making "it count." The NHL is trying to make the game more fun. The whole captains picking team concept worked out well. The game was boring, with no checking, no contested pucks, even offensive breakaways seemed slow. The skills contest had nice high points, but dragged on too long. All in all, it was a marginally successful weekend. But what's the harm in an exhibition game being just an exhibition?
Tim Thomas is now 3-0 in All-Star Games, which is a statistical quirk more than anything else. He always seems to be allotted the 3rd period to play, and his teams win. He actually blew a Save, if baseball terminology were employed, and then got the win.
Zdeno Chara had an assist, was +1, and won the fastest shot competition. Again. He broke his own record with a 105.9 MPH slapshot.
I think the NHL should stick with the captains picking the teams. However, they also need to continue to allow players to participate in the Olympics. Those games are true displays of the best players playing their best.
I'll also say that while the NHL has failed in sunbelt cities like Miami and Phoenix, it has thrived in Raleigh. The Hurricanes have built a solid franchise and they have a legitimate fanbase that's capable of supporting an NHL team.
-The Commodore
109 Celtics, 96 Lakers
I know regular season NBA games shouldn't mean that much, but this game certainly did. After the Celtics lost the crushing game 7 they came out strong Sunday and finished even stronger.
Everyone pretty much had a great game for the Celtics. Paul Pierce who always plays big in LA finished with 32 points, KG had a double double with 18 and 13, Ray Allen had 21 and Rajon Rondo had 15 of his 16 assists in the second half, and also had 10 points. It was a complete spread effort and played unbelievable team defense.
Kobe did have 41 points, but it was a real quiet 41 points. We played incredible team defense on him starting with Ray Allen. Kobe of course also had 0 assists....typical.
Perkins played 27 minutes of very tough basketball, he combined with Glen Davis to shut down the Lakers big men for most of the game. Davis took some huge momentum killing charges.
The Celtics have to feel pretty confident about this win, especially since we did it without Delonte West and Jermaine O'Neal aka 6 more fouls.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Celtics @ Suns Preview
Like "true" point guards, then you're going to love this game tonight as Steve Nash goes head to head with Rajon Rondo. Rondo leads the league with 12.7 assists per game, while Nash is second with 11.0, but the difference tonight will be Rondo's defense compared to Nash's. Rondo has the ability to slow down Nash, but I don't see anyway that Nash is going to be able to stay with Rondo, and that will be the difference in this game.
The Suns have lost 3 in a row, and aren't that great of a home team (11-10). Still, I have a bad feeling that this game is going to be a lot closer then it should be. I have always said that the Celtics one weakness is speed. Other then Rondo there are no guys that really can run in their starting 5. This could be a problem, especially if the Celtics decide to "play down to their competition" like they have shown a habit to do this year.
I think that the Celtics will be able to make a push late in the game to beat the Suns, but don't be surprised if this game is REALLY close. There is still no word to whether or not Pierce will play tonight with that bruised knee. If he doesn't play I think it could be a tough game for the Celtics tonight, but I'll assume he'll tough it out and play.
Celtics win 109-105
Tommy Award: Rondo
Game starts at 10:30 on ESPN
Who Will Sign Plaxico Burress?
"I am not afraid to make the following prediction: Plaxico Burress will be playing in 2011, and he will play very well," Rosenhaus (Plaxico's agent) declared to Josina Anderson, per Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk. "And it will be a very happy ending to a very tough, tough story for him."
ESPN lists the rumored interested teams as follows (Ravens, Redskins, Jets, Giants, Bengals, Patriots). To me the teams that make the most sense out of that list as the Jets and Patriots. The Jets don't really care about off the field issues, and they are losing a bunch of WRs to free agency this year. Plus, Plaxico would get to stay in New York, which could be appealing.
The Patriots also make a lot of sense to me, and I like this rumors a lot more then Ochocinco (or whatever he calls himself today). The Patriots could use a WR that same some size to him and Plaxico is certainly that. Plus, it's not like what he did is that big of a deal. He's just an idiot that shot himself. I know he has had some other issues, but I have a feeling he has learned his lesson. Just a feeling, but don't be surprised if he is a Patriot or a Jet next season.
Quote of the Day
During a pre-game chat ahead of the Miami Heat-New York Knicks clash, co-host Charles Barkley asked the actor, “Sarah Palin’s good looking, isn’t she?”
Morgan replied, "Let me tell you something about Sarah Palin, she's good masturbation material. The glasses and all of that... She is great masturbation material (FoxNews)."
Hahahaha, it's so funny because FoxNews is making a huge deal out of this. Good for you Tracy Morgan, you'll always been funny in my book.
Tracy Morgan must have seen the fake Sarah Palin porn...
Chone Figgins To A's?
"The A’s are trying to acquire Chone Figgins for Kevin Kouzmanoff and perhaps a pitcher, according to Joe Stiglich of the Contra Costa Times. Figgins, 33, could play third base for the A's, who missed out on free agent Adrian Beltre (MLBTradeRumors)."
Kind of interesting. It was only a year ago that Figgins was a coveted free agent after leading the league with 101 walks in 2009, stealing 42 bases and posting a .298/.395/.393 for the Angels. Yet, he fell back to Earth after signing with the Mariners (who doesn't?). His batting average went down to .259, and he walked about 30 less times (he did steal the same about of bases though). A lot of this could be due to the talent around him. Lets be honest Seattle is not exactly known for their offense. Then again, neither are the A's.
The Mariners owe Figgins $26MM through 2013 and the infielder's contract includes a vesting option for 2014, so I am a bit surprised the A's would wan to take that on. Maybe they wan Seattle to pick up some of that deal, but the A's were offering Beltre some serious cash, so maybe they got money to burn.
I have never been a Figgins fan. It could be because I hate his first name, but I also just never thought he was as good as everyone made him out to be. Plus he is now 33 years old, and so much of his game is based on speed, so I wonder how much longer he'll be good.
2011 MLB Prospects
So Keith Law finally came out with his top 100 MLB prospects for 2011. DP and I have referenced the fact that we are in an AL Only fantasy baseball league in which each team also has a minor league. So, when this comes out it is a big day. Here is the link if you want to take a look...
Keith Law Top 100 MLB Prospects (You do need Insider).
The reason I am bringing this up, is because he also breaks down how many players each team has in the top 100. The Royals were one of the top teams with 6, which is why over the next couple of years you will hear a lot of people start picking them to be a "surprising team".
KC:
1. Eric Hosmer, 1B (5)
2. Wil Myers, C/RF (8)
3. Mike Moustakas, 3B (23)
4. Mike Montgomery, LHP (28)
5. John Lamb, LHP (41)
6. Danny Duffy, LHP (98)
On top of that they have two guys that are just outside of the top 100 (LHP Chris Dwyer, and RHP Jake Odorizzi). Lot of people think the Royals are going to be the new Rays, by that I mean they are so loaded in the minors that they should have a window of being a really good team before they have to actually pay these guys.
Speaking of the Rays, you might think that they are about to fall apart after loosing so many prospects, but they shouldn't be down fro very long considering they have 8 prospects in the top 100.
1. Jeremy Hellickson, RHP (14)
2. Matt Moore, LHP (16)
3. Desmond Jennings, CF (20)
4. Chris Archer, RHP (40)
5. Hak-Ju Lee, SS (49)
6. Alex Torres, LHP (77)
7. Alex Colome, RHP (89)
8. Jake McGee, RHP (97)
Hellickson and Jennings we should see this year, and if they are as good as advertised the Rays should be able to rebound very quickly from a tough offseason.
In case you were wondering here is how Keith Law ranks the top 10 minors programs throughout the MLB...
1. Kansas City Royals
2. Tampa Bay Rays
3. Atlanta Braves
4. Toronto Blue Jays (really like what they are doing)
5. Philadelphia Phillies (amazing considering how good their team is already)
6. Los Angeles Angels (#1 prospect Mike Trout)
7. Minnesota Twins
8. Cincinnati Reds
9. New York Yankees (been awhile since we've seen them on any list)
10. Seattle Mariners
Red Sox are #11.
OJ Mayo Suspended For 10 Games
OJ Mayo has had a pretty tough year, 1st he gets moved to be a 6th man, then Tony Allen whoops his ass, and now he's suspended for steroids.
He claims that it's an over the counter drug and that what tested positive, but I don't get that. How as a professional athlete do you not do research in what you are putting into your body. I know the Grizzlies are getting sick of the former 3rd overall pick, so you have to wonder if those trade whispers will get louder as the deadline approaches.
Antonio Cromartie Needs To Shut Up
I don't remember Antonio opening his mouth this much when he was in San Diego but he's at it again. He recently sent a threatening tweet out towards Seattle QB Matt Hasselbeck after he questioned his approach towards the new CBA:
That kind of has suspension or fine all over it don't you think? You can't just go around threatening to smash people in the face.
Even though if I hear any more shit from BMacks dad, I'm gonna smash him in the face, beware old man.
Jeff Fisher Is Gone
In a very surprising move the Titans have decided they will move on longest tenured coach Jeff Fisher in 2012.
He has a combined record of 147-126, which is alright, but I'm not sold he's a great coach that everyone anoints him as. He doesn't have a Superbowl under his belt, and I'd take several coaches over him to be honest. He had a lot of issues with Vince Young and now I guess he wanted to hire his son and Bud Adams has a no family policy. BMack made an excellent point though, that this could be the best thing that happened to him and the Titans. It seems as if the team has got a little stale under him and a change of scenery may be the best thing for him.
And best thing for me is that Vince Young is free!
88 Celtics, 78 Blazers
Boy was this a physical game, huh? Right from the opening tip off the Blazers were fouling the Celtics hard. It did force the Celtics and committing stupid turnovers, and offensive rebounds. Part of the reason the Blazers hung around for so long is because of all those extra possessions.
KG was a great tonight. He owned the post either backing downlow, r taking over the high post. He also had nine assists to boot. He finished with 10 points, 9 rebounds, 9 assists. Perk also had 10 points too. He also played stout defense on Lemarcus Adridge who had only 17 points(a lot of those points coming on tip ins and put backs.
Low scoring game, but another quality win.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Celtics vs Blazers Preview
Depth Chart
| Boston (PPG) | Portland (PPG) | |
|---|---|---|
| PG | ||
| SG | ||
| SF | ||
| PF | ||
| C |
There are only 2 ways the Celtics don't win this game, 1st is if Aldridge has 100 points, and the 2nd is that if the Celtics look passed this game and play down to their competition.
The Celtics got surprised Monday when Kendrick Perkins came back and played pretty decently. He won't have much of a factor on the offensive end, but will surely have a presence on the defensive end. He could definitly help out on Lamarcus Aldridge. Anyways, Rondo should be able to blow by Andre Miller all game and sag off him on the defensive end. Rondo should come up with around 5 steals tonight by getting in passing lanes.
The Celtics win easily.
Celtics 109- 89
Tommy Award: Kendrick Perkins
"I promise you, if I'm coaching, it will be the Pittsburgh Steelers"
That was from legendary Steelers defensive coach Dick LeBeau who's 73.
The Steelers are known for their defense and zone blitz packaging. Since LeBeau (who was 12-33 as the Cincinnati Bengals head coach from 2000-2002) returned to run the Pittsburgh D in 2004, it has ranked first overall three times (measured as fewest yards allowed) while allowing the fewest points three times. In those seven years, statistically the Steelers have been in the top five six times and were ninth in the other one.
Great news going into the Superbowl. Only if Pouncey makes a surprise and comes back.
Ben and Aaron
I hate phrases like "changing of the guard" to talk about the evolving environments of a sport. Although Tom Brady and Peyton Manning took early exits from the postseason, and neither has won a title since George W. Bush was President, it's hard to eliminate them from the elite, uppermost echelon of quarterbacks in the NFL.
However, I think it's time we allow more names to populate that short list. It's no longer just Brady and Manning, then everyone else. I think it's Brady, Manning, Roethlisberger, and maybe even Rodgers.
What are the arguments against Roethlisberger's inclusion? His lack of eye-popping numbers? The help of a good running game and an excellent defense? But weren't those the precise arguments used against Tom Brady about 10 years ago? And since when has a QB won a Super Bowl by themselves? Ask John Elway and Terrell Davis, or Troy Aikman and Emmitt Smith. Better yet, ask Dan Marino and nobody else.
In this pass-happy NFL, Roethlisberger's numbers don't dazzle. Even if you extrapolated his 12 game performance into 16 games, he'd have thrown 23 TDs (tied for 13th with Garrard, Cutler, and Fitzpatrick), although with only 7 INTs. He would have been among League leaders for yards thrown, and his QB Rating was 5th at 97.0. So the numbers don't fizzle, either.
Those are good numbers. Even the TD number is good considering what sane coach would throw the ball on 3rd and goal at the 1 when Rashard Mendenhall is in the backfield? The whole "supporting cast" argument can go both ways.
Then there's his ability to win. He just does it. He makes plays when plays are needed. Apart from his experiences with the mid 2000s Patriots, he's beaten all comers in big games. He's won two Super Bowls, 3 AFC titles, and 10 playoff games. And he hasn't been a passenger along for the ride in those games, either.
So no matter what happens a week from Sunday, I think Roethlisberger has cemented a spot in that top tier of QB.
Then there's Rodgers. And unless he throws for 500 yards and 6 TDs, he might have to show us a bit more in years to come before being included in the Manning-Brady-Roethlisberger discussion. I don't get to see him often, being in the NFC. But I've yet to be thoroughly impressed with him as a player. So much so that even after a bad game, or a bad year, I'd be sure that he'd recover.
His numbers are gleaming, and his postseason performances have been admirable. A ring would go a long way to solidify himself at the top of the food chain. He certainly has the potential to reach such heights, but there needs to be more results over a slightly longer stretch of time.
So I'd say it's now a three horse race for the top spot among NFL QBs. They all have strengths, they all have slight weaknesses that can be used in an argument against them. Their biggest achievements have all come with assistance. And each of them plays the position in a different way, within different systems, that have all been successful.
But there's something about these three guys that transcends stats, and wins, and rings. There's an aura of strength around them. Opponents respect them, even fear them, in a way above and different from other QBs. I think that says a great deal more than passer ratings or playoff records.
-The Commodore
Andy Pettitte Update
It's odd that a 38 year old pitcher would be such a story line for a team with the resources that New York has, but that is just the state of the Yankees these days...
"With spring training fast approaching, the New York Yankees seemed to be preparing for life without Andy Pettitte. But there have been a few not-so-subtle hints that the veteran left-hander may be willing to postpone his retirement. SI.com's Jon Heyman tweeted that some industry sources believe Pettitte will pitch in 2011, based on the fact that he is working out in preparation for the possibility. In a later post, Heyman says the Yankees are prepared to offer Pettitte $12 million. MSNBC.com's Craig Calcaterra reported that a source close to Pettitte says there is a "very strong possibility" that the lefty decides to play this coming season (ESPN)."
The fact that he is now working out would lead me to believe that he is coming back, but I am sticking with my thinking that he will pull a Roger Clemens and join the team after the season starts. The Yankees really need to get Pettitte to come back, right now they have CC Sabtahia, Phil Hughes A.J. Burnett, and then whatever combination of Colon, Ivan Nova or Sergio Mitre to fill in the last two spots. So, if the Yankees are going to be able to keep up with the Red Sox they are going to need Pettitte to come back, and Burnett to bounce back.
Maurkice Pouncey Out For Super Bowl
"NFL Network reporter Adam Breer reports that Pittsburgh Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey was spotted at the Steelers facility on crutches and wearing a hard cast, not an aircast or boot. When asked if he was going to play in the Super Bowl, Pouncey had no comment. But Pouncey's teammate Chris Kemoeatu sure did. "We are definitely sad that he won't be able to be with us in the Super Bowl," left guard Chris Kemoeatu said after Wednesday's practice, per the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. "Definitely I feel bad for him. We just have to win it for him. It's definitely a huge loss for us." This is a shockingly honest disclosure, in light of the vagueness of official team injury reports (ESPN)."
There isn't any official word from the team yet, but it seems all but certain that the Steelers starting center won't be able to play. The Steelers have made due with a patchwork offensive line for most of the year, and Roethlisberger has been able to get by just fine. Still, this is a big blow of this team, not just for their passing game, but also for their running game. On top of that the center is usually the one that points out a lot of blitzes and adjusts blocking coverage. It will be interesting to see how much this loss will affect them.
Bruins 2, Panthers 1
Lucic scored his 20th goal of the season, his first ever 20 goal campaign and we're only at the All-Star Break. It was probably his prettiest of the 20, as he snapped a shot over Vokoun's blocker side. It was so much different from Lucic as a rookie. Back then, he'd blast shots in the general direction of the goal. This was a snipe, with purpose and intent. And it turned out to be the game-winner.
Tim Thomas was superb. Florida had a few rushes, and every time but once, Timmy came up with the stops. He's turning into something like Pedro Martinez in 2000. You expect a shutout every start, and it's shocking when he gives anything up.
Several Bruins showed dogged determination and ferocious character in the last minute of this game. Bergeron, Campbell, and Ference in particular. They carried the win home and it was truly enjoyable to watch them scrape and claw for the victory.
But not all was positive. Michael Ryder's 13:31 of ice time was horrendous. If this guy doesn't get a perfect tape-to-tape pass, he bungles the puck. He spends half his shifts drifting around, not doing anything. I'm fed up with him. I see guys like Horton struggling, but still making basic plays. Ryder just screws everything up. He's Dennis Wideman as a forward.
It's kind of a moot point with Savard out, but if Julien doesn't trust Seguin to play in the last 8 minutes of a 2-1 game, then maybe Seguin should be playing in Providence. He'd at least be getting the experience in those hectic situations, and then one day he could be a full-time NHL player.
Again, with Savard out, Seguin must remain in Boston. But even without Savard, he played less than 10 minutes last night. He's played about 605 minutes this year. He could easily have 800+ minutes already if he were in Providence. Tough minutes, Power Play minutes, shorthanded minutes, game deciding minutes. Instead, he's learning more about cheering his teammates than playing hockey.
Bruins don't play until Tuesday down in Carolina. With 50 games in the books, they're 4 points up on Montreal in the Division and 3rd in the East. That ain't bad. The All-Star Game is Sunday, but the more interesting Skills Competition is Saturday. Those are also in Carolina.
-The Commodore
Nationals Looking At Carmona, Sizemore (UPDATED)
"The Nationals have had "conversations" with the Indians about Fausto Carmona and Grady Sizemore, reports Phil Wood of MASNsports.com. Another source tells Wood the Nats "are working on 'a number' of other trades," as well (MLBTradeRumors)."
Sizemore hasn't been healthy the last two years, and he is due $7.5 million this year, and have a team option of $8.5 million for next year. Rumor has it they are looking to move him. Still, he isn't the main part of this deal for the Nationals.
The Nationals have been looking for another pitching to help out the top part of their rotation. I am not a big Carmona fan, but I do think in the NL he could be very affective. Everything he does just reminds me of an NL pitcher. By that I mean he is a ground ball pitcher, that doesn't strike out a lot of people.
The problem here is that the Nationals farm system is pretty weak when you eliminate guys like Bryce Harper, and Stephen Strasburg. So, it will be interesting to see if they have the prospects to be able to pull a deal like this off.
***UPDATE***
Paul Hoynes of The Cleveland Plain-Dealer says "there's not much meat" to the rumor about Carmona and Sizemore potentially going to the Nationals. MLB.com's Bill Ladson says he's heard the same (MLBTradeRumors).
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Panthers @ Bruins Preview
The Bruins are only up to games on the Montreal for first place in the Northeast division, but tonight they have a good chance to extended that lead and sweep the season series with the Panthers.
The Bruins are 3-0 against the Panthers outscoring them 10-3 in those 3 games. Even though the Bruins are 3rd in the Eastern Conference in goal scoring they still could be a lot better. They are highly inconsistent. One game they will break out for 5-6 the next they will get shutout. Losing Marc Savard for an extended period of time (maybe the season) isn't going to help that.
One player that has to step up is former Panther Nathan Horton, who has 12 goals and 16 assists on the season but only one goal over his last 19 games and none in his last nine. In the beginning of the season I said he would have 38 goals, looks like I was way off. He has all the tools, but just like the rest of the Bruins has a hard time finishing a play.
The Panthers are not a good team and are currently 6 points out of a playoff spot. Boston is just all around a better team, even without Savard, so I except another easy victory over the Panthers (who shouldn't even have a team).
Reports indicated that Tim Thomas will be in net for the Bruins tonight.
Bruins win 5-1
Player of the Game: Bergeron
Game starts at 7pm on NESN.
My Top 10 Shows Of All-Time
When there is a slow day, there is only 1 thing to do. Make lists!!!
Ok, here is a list of my top 10 shows of all-time. I guess I should say my favorite "dramas" of all-time, because I decided to cut out all comedies and also mini-series (ex. Band of Brothers). It is just too hard to compare a show like South Park or Family Guy to LOST.
1. LOST
I don't care what anyone says about how it ended and blah, blah, blah, there has never been a show that I have been that in to, and probably will never be again. Awesome interesting plot that kept you guessing whether you like it or not.
2. Dexter
It has had 1 bad season (season 2 or 3) I forget, but overall is just awesome. Another show that really changed the way TV Shows are made. You know a show is good if you can take a serial killer and make him likable.
3. X-Files
Yea, there are haters, but this is my list and I always enjoyed this show (same with Fringe). Sometimes there were episodes that were terrible, but the ones that had to do with the main storyline (Aliens, cigarette smoking man, ect) were awesome. The ending of the show wasn't the greatest, but then again what show really has a great ending... not many.
4. Oz
Another "gritty" show, much more then the wire. It was violent and sometimes hard to watch, yet it always held your interest. The later seasons got kinda weird, but early on it was one of the best.
5. The Walking Dead
I know only 1 season, but in a time when everything is always the same this show has at least changed it up. I hate zombies, but I even like this show. You are always on the edge of your seat, because (like the characters) you never feel safe. It will be interesting to see how it progresses.
6. The Wire
Finally got around to watching this show, and although I haven't seen a ton of episodes (working on that) I can already tell this show has everything I like. Slow burn that feels realistic, and the social commentary is the best of any show I have ever seen. Maybe this is too early to be on my list, but I can almost guarantee it will slide into the 3 spot when I watch all of them.
7. Sopranos
Although I am not as high on this show as a lot of other people, it's hard to argue it isn't one of the best ever. If you cut out that awful season when takes place mostly in a comma/dream state the rest of the show was pretty awesome.
8. 24
The later season sucked. There is no argument here, and I didn't even watched the last season and a half, but the early seasons (1-4) were awesome. It's just really too bad they let it drag on as long as it did.
9. Fringe
The new age X-Files has been entertaining since it came out. I can understand why people wouldn't like the show, because a lot of the premises are just ridiculous, but I always find myself eventually watching it. They just moved it to Friday nights, so that probably means it is coming to an end.
10. House
Oh my guilty pleasure. I don't watch them in order, and I don't really have to. I guess it is just my "CSI". I don't really care about the subplots, and to be honest it's hard to explain why I even like it. Maybe it really is just to see how many bad "James Bond" one liners House will drop in a given episode.
Shows I haven't watch yet, but I hear are good...
Mad Men, Breaking Bad, True Blood.
Shows I tried, but couldn't get in to...
Friday Night Lights, The Shield, The Event, Heroes.
Blue Jays Turn Around And Trade Napoli To Rangers
"Hopefully Mike Napoli's suitcase is still packed. Just four days after acquiring the catcher/first baseman from the Angels, the Blue Jays have sent him back to the AL West. Napoli is heading to the Rangers for Frank Francisco and cash, the teams announced. Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports first reported the deal (on Twitter) and Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News reports (on Twitter) that the Rangers are sending less than $1MM to Toronto (MLBTradeRumors)."
This isn't a deal that will make a lot of headlines, but it is still very interesting. For one, it never made sense that the Blue Jays acquired Napoli in the first place. They have their catcher of the future in J.P. Arencibia, and a veteran in Jose Molina, so the catching duties seem to be covered. On top of that they have somewhat of a log jam at first with Adam Lind and Edwin Encarnacion lobbying for playing time.
What is interesting now is that the Rangers are kind of running into the same problem. Napoli will play some catcher, sharing time with Yorvit Torrealba and Matt Treanor. He could play some first, but Michael Young is rumored to be moving to first base after the signing of Adrian Beltre. On top of that the Rangers have Chris Davis and Mitch Moreland battling for playing time.
This could mean that Rangers plan to trade Michael Young (Colorado has expressed interest). So, keep an eye on the Rangers as they may not be done wheeling and dealing yet.
This also could mean that Neftali Feliz will stay in the bullpen. There had been rumors that the Rangers would stretch him out and try to make him a starter again. I'm almost always against doing that, but after losing Cliff Lee I guess it had to be looked at. With this deal it seems a lot more likely he'll stay in the bullpen.
For the Blue Jays Frank Francisco helps round out a bullpen that already has Jason Frasor, Jon Rauch, and Octavio Dotel. They needed to add some arms back there after losing guys like Scott Downs.
Spartans Are Sinking Fast
In the beginning of the year I thought Michigan State would be challenging for the the NCAA title. Yet, they have already lost 7 games this season and have sunk to #25 in the nation according to the AP poll. On top of that they are riding a 2 game losing steak, and have to deal with this...
"Michigan State announced Tuesday night that it has dismissed junior guard Korie Lucious for the rest of the season.
"Unfortunately, Korie Lucious displayed conduct detrimental to the program," Spartans coach Tom Izzo said in a statement. "My focus is on this team for the remainder of the season."
"I didn't live up to the standards of the program," Lucious said in his own statement. "Unfortunately, I let my teammates, my coaches, and myself down, and wish them the best for the rest of the season."
Neither Izzo nor Lucious elaborated on what may have led to the guard's dismissal from the Spartans (ESPN)."
I have been trying to find out exactly what he did, but so far have been unsuccessful. This isn't the first time Lucious has been in trouble though, he was suspended for a game last season for missing class. Then he pleaded guilty in September to misdemeanor reckless driving and was suspended again for the season opener against Eastern Michigan. So, it sounds like this was the final straw, and I'm not surprised because Izzo usually runs a tight ship.
Lucious doesn't light up the state sheet (6.5 pts 4.1 asts), but he has been a big part of this team in the past when made a game-winning 3 against Maryland in the 2nd round of the NCAA tournament last season.
Michigan State still has Kalin Lucas, Durrell Summers, and Draymond Green but they are going to have a really hard time getting back to the Final Four, which is too bad, because like I said before, going into this season I would have had them as a lock for the Final Four.
Rip Hamilton To Celtics? (UPDATED)
"Detroit’s Richard Hamilton would intrigue Ainge, but the Pistons would have to work out a buyout of his remaining $30 million, which includes an early termination option for 2012-13. It seems hopeless that Hamilton and the Pistons can continue beyond this season (Boston Globe via Celticsblog.com)."
If the Melo trade never happens (I still don't buy it) then this could get interesting. The Pistons are going to try to buy him out if they can't deal him. No one is going to want to pickup that contract unless it is part of a bigger deal, so this could get interesting.
I hate Rip Hamilton, but if you're asking me if I'd rather have him then a combo of Nate Robinson/Von Wafer or Hamilton I'll take Hamilton everytime. Celticsblog describes him as a "poor man's Ray Allen". That sounds perfect if you ask me. There wouldn't need to much of an offensive change then from the first to second unit. Rip scores off running around off picks, and getting open looks. Sounds perfect for a 2nd unit that will have Big Baby and Shaq down low setting picks.
I don't like it just because of my hatred for him, but from a basketball standpoint it would be a great move. IF he gets bought out.
***UPDATED***
Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated joined the Dale & Holley show Wednesday morning to talk about the Celtics and the NBA.
There's a rumor going around that the Celtics are interested in Pistons shooting guard Richard Hamilton, but Mannix downplayed it.
"That's just a rumor," he said. "The only way they acquire him is by buyout. Right now, the ownership situation in Detroit is in such flux that that buyout, it ain't coming anytime soon. And I'd be really surprised if it came before March 1st."
Mannix acknowledged that "Hamilton would be a great asset in Boston" and "something has to happen" because Hamilton and coach John Kuester are at odds. However, Mannix said, "I just don't see him getting bought out right now. He's owed $25 million over the next two years. If he's not willing to take a significant pay cut from that — and I'm talking in the $16 [million], 17 million range — he's just not going anywhere. Now as long as the ownership situation is so up in the air out here (WEEI)."
Chad Ochocinco No Mas
Chad Ochocinco is changing his name back to Chad Johnson. Apparently, he is trying to shake his image as a outspoken media whore and since we live in New England everything gets over analyzed and speculated about. I've been hearing from New England media this may be the first step to joining the Patriots.
Again, I agree with BMack in thinking that there is no way in hell he joins the Patriots because no way Bill Belichick will tolerate his twitter, shows, etc. But it's a slow day so f off.
Speaking of Twitter
Will Hill from Florida has got himself in lots of trouble by using twitter and being an all around dumbass. Here are some tidbits from his twitter:
Well alright alright its the gang the gang sour gang on the map
My brother asks me yesterday " yo nigga do u eat" my father replies "yea weed! That's what that nigga eat!" I replied "Trillaaaaaaa"
Getting a massage by a pr chick and a black chick same time feels amazing
Morning america day already starting of crazy chick just offered me some ass if I massage her left breast smh lmsgao
Sour bitch ahahahahah
About to hop n this bmw and go get some of that pinky head but I'm debatin should I trash after or Just go about my business sour niggas
More
I'm not an expert in thuggery talk but basically everything he says is in reference to weed. But this is the shit I mean when I say I would ban twitter from my team, this is just an embarrassment all around.
Charles Barkley Has Something To Say
"I was mad at the players, to be honest with you," Barkley said Tuesday on "The Waddle & Silvy Show" on ESPN 1000. "I think it was inappropriate and wrong to question a guy's heart. Now reporters, they're going to do what they want to. They're entitled to their opinion. But as players, I don't think it's appropriate to question another guy's heart.
"That crosses the line, because you don't know. If you go back and start looking at all the stuff that's been said, and clearly one of the more vocal critics was Maurice Jones-Drew, and then you find out he missed the last two games with a bad knee. And he was really the first guy who crucified Jay. You have to be careful, because in the two most important games of the year, he sat out with a bad knee. And then it really makes him look like an idiot now."
I agree with Charles 100%. I think the talk about Jay Cutler's heart or lack of should be talked about from the media, fans and former players, but for current players to sell out their peers is kind of bullshit. And the biggest puss move for the players like Maurice Jones-Drew and others have are "the taken out of context" excuse. Jones-Drew said, " "Hey I think the urban meyer rule is effect right now... When the going gets tough........QUIT." I would have had much more respect for Jones-Drew if he stood by his comments.
I'm not a big fan of athletes tweeting, and especially tweeting negative things because they are in the safety of their own homes. If I were a coach I would ban it completely.
112 Celtics, 95 Cavaliers
Perk returned! We all expected him to get back on February 4th, but he convinced Doc and trainer Ed Lacert and he was a go.
All in all it was a great night for the Celtics, we won by 17, Perk returned, Rondo had another double double and KG, Pierce, and Ray all played 25 minutes or under. Which is great figuring they have a tough road trip ahead of them with Portland, Phoenix and the Lakers all waiting for them.
Perk had 7 points, 6 boards, and 3 assists and looked pretty good out there. He's not really an offensive player so 7 in his return is pretty good. Also, BMack pointed it out to me that Perk's shoulders didn't look as wide. Maybe I'm just having a hard time remembering what he looked like before the injury, but his shoulders didn't seem as broad. His interior defense was certainly missed, and it was really good to see him back.
Pierce scored a team high 24 points, while Ray had 18 and 3 for 3 from beyond the arc. This game was pretty much over before it began and the Cavs are just an embarrassment.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Celtics vs Cavs Preview
The Cavs are historically bad, so that means the Celtics should struggle against them. We've seen the Celtics play down to their competition in the recent past with the Wizards and the Pistons. I hope that doesn't happen tonight, but it could. The Cavs are just awful and embarrassment to what they were last year.
Depth Chart
Looking at the Cavs roster makes me sick. It's awful and gross. The key to this game is getting Paul Pierce and Ray Allen hot early, because if that happens all the other pieces should fall in place. Defenders will start helping too much and will lead to easy baskets for KG, Semih and whoever they have as big men. I expect a big game from Ray Allen as Boobie Gibson should be on him a lot and he's plain awful. Even without Shaq the C's will kill em.
104-82 Celtics
Tommy Award: Ray Allen
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