Tom Coughlin would be crazy to play Plaxico and Jacobs this Saturday as the Giants try to stop the Pats from going 16-0. It would be great to be the team to end the Pats’ perfect season. But considering that they have a playoff game a week later, it really doesn’t make sense to be clawing tooth and nail for a hard fought victory when their playoff seed has already been set. The game means a lot more for the Patriots than it does for the Giants, plus if the Pats get banged up they have a bye week coming up.
The rest of the league (not to mention the ’72 Dolphins) may not be thrilled to see a team roll over and let the Pats complete the first 16-0 regular season in history. But the Pats still have to win three playoff games for the 16-0 to mean anything. Think the ’72 Dolphins won’t be popping champagne if the Pats lose to the Colts in the Conference Championship Game? Without a Super Bowl Championship, 16-0 will mean nothing.
Back to the Giants. Sunday’s game against the Bills was a perfect example of a team winning in spite of their quarterback. By the fourth quarter, all Eli had to do was hand the ball to either Jacobs or rookie running back Ahmad Bradshaw, and he couldn’t even do that. Eli fumbled five times, losing two, and threw two interceptions. At this point, whenever Eli drops back to pass, I pray for an incompletion.
Friday, December 28, 2007
Saturday, December 22, 2007
College Football Playoffs Semi-Finals
After a bye week last week, action resumed in the College Football Playoffs today. The match-up for next week’s College Football Championship is set, as today featured one blowout and one nail biter. In case you missed it, here is a recap of last round’s action. (Round One)
#5 USC Trojans 35, #8 Missouri Tigers 31
The Tigers could not stop USC’s high-powered offense, as Chauncey Washington and Joe McKnight combined for over 150 rushing yards and three TDs. USC Quarterback John David Booty made sure this wasn’t the last game of his college career, throwing for over 200 yards and two touchdowns while not turning the ball over. Tigers quarterback Chase Daniel had a big game, throwing for over 300 yards and 3 TDs. However, the Tigers couldn’t keep up with USC’s balanced offensive attack. USC heads to the title game.
#3 LSU Tigers 31, #7 Virginia Tech Hokies 14
VT looked for revenge of an early season blowout to LSU in September, which saw the Hokies fall to the Tigers by the score of 48-7. But despite the great motivation, VT was simply overmatched in all facets of the game. The LSU dual quarterback threat with Ryan Perrilloux and Matt Flynn provided enough offense against a stout Hokie defense. On offense, the Hokies, as they did in September, struggled mightily. The Tigers first shut down Branden Ore, and then dropped back into pass coverage and let Glenn Dorsey pressure VT's Sean Glennon. Facing an early deficit, Glennon was forced to pass - not the Hokies' strength as they averaged less than 200 pass yards per game this season. LSU sustained long drives by handing the ball to Jacob Hester nearly every down, and he wore down both the Tech defense and the clock. Thanks to the early lead, the Tigers controlled the game and were never truly threatened.
Be sure to check back next week to see who's crowned the National Champion.
Picture Credits:
Top: http://www.nfldraftdog.com/2008_nfl_draft/booty.jpg
Bottom: http://media.2theadvocate.com/images/matt+flynn_080307.jpg
-By Pat and Andrew
#5 USC Trojans 35, #8 Missouri Tigers 31
The Tigers could not stop USC’s high-powered offense, as Chauncey Washington and Joe McKnight combined for over 150 rushing yards and three TDs. USC Quarterback John David Booty made sure this wasn’t the last game of his college career, throwing for over 200 yards and two touchdowns while not turning the ball over. Tigers quarterback Chase Daniel had a big game, throwing for over 300 yards and 3 TDs. However, the Tigers couldn’t keep up with USC’s balanced offensive attack. USC heads to the title game.
#3 LSU Tigers 31, #7 Virginia Tech Hokies 14
VT looked for revenge of an early season blowout to LSU in September, which saw the Hokies fall to the Tigers by the score of 48-7. But despite the great motivation, VT was simply overmatched in all facets of the game. The LSU dual quarterback threat with Ryan Perrilloux and Matt Flynn provided enough offense against a stout Hokie defense. On offense, the Hokies, as they did in September, struggled mightily. The Tigers first shut down Branden Ore, and then dropped back into pass coverage and let Glenn Dorsey pressure VT's Sean Glennon. Facing an early deficit, Glennon was forced to pass - not the Hokies' strength as they averaged less than 200 pass yards per game this season. LSU sustained long drives by handing the ball to Jacob Hester nearly every down, and he wore down both the Tech defense and the clock. Thanks to the early lead, the Tigers controlled the game and were never truly threatened.
Be sure to check back next week to see who's crowned the National Champion.
Picture Credits:
Top: http://www.nfldraftdog.com/2008_nfl_draft/booty.jpg
Bottom: http://media.2theadvocate.com/images/matt+flynn_080307.jpg
-By Pat and Andrew
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Keep on Hecklin'
I just want to quickly talk about heckling, specifically pertaining to the so-called “basketball team” the New York Knicks and the head coach Isiah Thomas.
As we stated at the outset of this blog, Andrew and I are big hecklers. He’s on the road coming home for winter break, so I’ll give my reasoning as to why heckling is so appealing. First off, it’s wildly entertaining. To wittingly heckle is an art-form far removed from drunkenly screaming. It takes timing, poise, creativity and so forth. To heckle and receive a response from the player, the crowd, or both is quite satisfying. So you’re thinking - you jus
t do it for attention?
As we stated at the outset of this blog, Andrew and I are big hecklers. He’s on the road coming home for winter break, so I’ll give my reasoning as to why heckling is so appealing. First off, it’s wildly entertaining. To wittingly heckle is an art-form far removed from drunkenly screaming. It takes timing, poise, creativity and so forth. To heckle and receive a response from the player, the crowd, or both is quite satisfying. So you’re thinking - you jus
t do it for attention?But there’s more to it than that. It is, to an extent, about bringing attention to a cause (say, “Fire Isiah”). But as spectators, we pay a lot of money to cheer on our team and help the squad win. Heckling can at times be rude, boorish and disrespectful to fellow fans. But as long as it’s clean and creative, I see heckling as an integral part of my role as a fan. That role may be different for me as a loud, aggressive 21-year-old. But if I can distract players, make them feel uneasy, or simply get in their head, I may just be making a difference. It’s also a great challenge to see if you can throw a professional athlete off of his or her (although I haven’t really attended or therefore heckled at any professional women’s sporting events) game.
Most of these professionals make five times as much money in one year as fans will make their entire lives. Part of accepting such a lucrative deal, and part of playing a game for a living, is that you become susceptible to heckling. Players and coaches do their best to win on the court. Fans, while acting reasonably and not physically intruding, should do their best to help their team win. Not all fans need to heckle. But it shouldn’t be outlawed.
By now I’m in a full-fledged defense of harassing athletes. I guess it’s a reflex to opponents such as my Dad. But even he will tell you it can make a difference - as he saw at the Syracuse v. Washington basketball game played before a small crowd at MSG. My friends and I messed with the Huskies. We screamed that the shot clock was running out early, yelled for players to shoot it, and honestly, in a few instances, got them to jack up an ill advised shot. I realize that college might be a little different because they don’t get paid, but I figure a little good-natured ribbing never hurt anyone – especially someone attending college for free.
So where am I going with this? I’m not entirely sure. But what I’ve seen at Madison Square Garden recently is disgusting. Fans are being thrown out for raising “Fire Isiah” signs. Fans behind the bench have been punished or warned for speaking up at all against Isiah. Despite fans paying the players’ and coaches’ exorbitant contracts, and that money is going towards a woeful product, spectators are not allowed to speak up. It’s a terrible regime running the Garden these days, starting with owner James Dolan and running down to Isiah. Speech is censored, embarrassment is accepted and standing up and voicing displeasure warrants an ejection or punishment. The authoritarian regime of Mr. Dolan is doing a splendid job. Thankfully, some opposition is finally organizing, and hopefully by the All-Star break there will be a full fledged coup d’etat that will bring our Knicks back to respectability.
So I say, heckle away. Look at the attention it is getting in portraying Isiah and the management in a somewhat negative light. It’s keeping the Isiah debate at the forefront of New York sports. And if he can harass people and keep his job, well, we should be able to harass him too and keep our seats.
-Pat
Photo credit: http://supergigant.blox.pl/resource/sellknicks.jpg
Monday, December 17, 2007
Eli Manning Unstoppable?
We’ve all seen the new Citizen-Ecodrive commercials with Eli Manning. We’ve all had the same reaction to the claim that Eli Manning was unstoppable (mostly: “Hey, whoever is in charge of advertising for this watch company got Eli and Peyton mixed up!” or “So I guess the watch runs well until noon and then stops working”). Some other companies have also selected the wrong spokesperson and motto, however.
O.J Simpson, spokesman for Windex
“Will leave your windows and countertops as squeaky-clean as O.J.”
Bobby Petrino, spokesman for Energizer “Like Bobby Petrino, Energizer batteries never quit.”
Bill Belichick, spokesman for Men’s Wearhouse
“You’re going to like the way you look, Bill Belichick guarantees it.”
Curt Schilling, spokesman for Midas Mufflers
“Keeps your car as quiet as Curt.”
Brandon Jacobs (who dropped about 40 passes Sunday), spokesman for All-State
“You’re in good hands, like Brandon’s.”
New York Knicks, spokesmen for Avis.
“We try harder. So do the Knicks.”
Scott Boras, spokesman for DeBeers.
“Like a Scott Boras contract, a diamond is forever.”
Carl Pavano, spokesman for Smith Barney.
“Like Carl, we make money the old-fashioned way – we earn it.”
Gary Williams, spokesman for Gillette.
“Be like Gary. Never let ‘em see you sweat.”
Brian McNamee, spokesman for Las Vegas.
“What happens here, stays here.”
And we didn’t even have to bring up Michael Vick.
Other thoughts:
- Pat yesterday praised Brian Westbrook for taking a dive at the goal line. I have Westbrook on my fantasy team, and going into Monday nights action I am down 5 points. Needless to say, Pat and I disagree about this one.
- After the injury to Shockey, someone on ESPN pointed out that the Giants always limp into the playoffs. Considering the Giants' last two games are at Buffalo and against New England, limping into the playoffs isn’t the worst they could do.
- The Ravens were one play away from being the team that ended the Patriot’s perfect season. Instead, they are the team that ended the Dolphins’ winless season.
O.J Simpson, spokesman for Windex
“Will leave your windows and countertops as squeaky-clean as O.J.”
Bobby Petrino, spokesman for Energizer “Like Bobby Petrino, Energizer batteries never quit.”
Bill Belichick, spokesman for Men’s Wearhouse
“You’re going to like the way you look, Bill Belichick guarantees it.”
Curt Schilling, spokesman for Midas Mufflers
“Keeps your car as quiet as Curt.”
Brandon Jacobs (who dropped about 40 passes Sunday), spokesman for All-State
“You’re in good hands, like Brandon’s.”
New York Knicks, spokesmen for Avis.
“We try harder. So do the Knicks.”
Scott Boras, spokesman for DeBeers.
“Like a Scott Boras contract, a diamond is forever.”
Carl Pavano, spokesman for Smith Barney.
“Like Carl, we make money the old-fashioned way – we earn it.”
Gary Williams, spokesman for Gillette.
“Be like Gary. Never let ‘em see you sweat.”
Brian McNamee, spokesman for Las Vegas.
“What happens here, stays here.”
And we didn’t even have to bring up Michael Vick.
Other thoughts:
- Pat yesterday praised Brian Westbrook for taking a dive at the goal line. I have Westbrook on my fantasy team, and going into Monday nights action I am down 5 points. Needless to say, Pat and I disagree about this one.
- After the injury to Shockey, someone on ESPN pointed out that the Giants always limp into the playoffs. Considering the Giants' last two games are at Buffalo and against New England, limping into the playoffs isn’t the worst they could do.
- The Ravens were one play away from being the team that ended the Patriot’s perfect season. Instead, they are the team that ended the Dolphins’ winless season.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Live sunday football thoughts
Some random thoughts from Sunday's day of football, as I'm now joined by two friends from high school, the infamous Mundo and awful Giants/Bills fan Joe:
- Tony Romo is making a great push to ruin my fantasy week with a terrible first half. I have to blame this on Jessica Simpson's presence. All men know that it's tough to play well when a significantly interested woman is spectating. Simpson is even donning a Romo jersey a la high school cheerleader. He's thrown two interceptions, one of them in the end zone. We all saw what Simpson did to Nick Lachey's career, Tony better be careful.
Joe thinks that it's not a problem, and that he'll have a "huge second half." I don't know. I'm skeptical.
(update 7:23 p.m.) - Romo was shook all game long. He threw another pick, this one was a late game crucial interception. He also fumbled a few times. Ms. Chicken of the Sea casted a spell over Tony. This is really going to test their relationship. "I was wrong again" - Joe.
Also, how about that slide-down by Westbrook at the end of the game when he could have waltzed into the Dallas endzone? When do you see a player give up personal stats to seal the deal like that? Most NBA players won't hoist up 3/4 court shots at the ends of quarters to preserve their three-point percentage. It was nice to see a player sacrifice almighty stats.
- Mundo noted that he can't remember the last time that the Steelers have played in bright sunshine. It always seems to be raining, snowing or just grey when Pittsburgh plays. And especially at Heinz Field, where the field is always a mess. And the game is always ugly.
- Funny to see the unbridled joy after the Dolphin's first win of the season over the Baltimore Ravens. The crowd was ecstatic, the players were hugging each other like they just clinched a playoff spot. Their owner was even crying. But you've got to give it to them, to stick together through such a rough season without being at each other's throats.
- The Jets had a realistic shot at taking down the Patriots...or at least taking the game into overtime. But they couldn't get the big break in the game. As for the fans, as much as I hate Patriot fans, I would have been throwing snowballs all over the field too. That just looked like too much fun. Some of them flew out of the stands at twice the velocity of Chad Pennington's tosses.
- Fred Taylor had a huge game. I don't know if there's a more enigmatic player in the NFL. He's wildly talented and has put up big numbers, but they just rarely seem to be acheived for an extended period of time.
- Tony Romo is making a great push to ruin my fantasy week with a terrible first half. I have to blame this on Jessica Simpson's presence. All men know that it's tough to play well when a significantly interested woman is spectating. Simpson is even donning a Romo jersey a la high school cheerleader. He's thrown two interceptions, one of them in the end zone. We all saw what Simpson did to Nick Lachey's career, Tony better be careful.
Joe thinks that it's not a problem, and that he'll have a "huge second half." I don't know. I'm skeptical.
(update 7:23 p.m.) - Romo was shook all game long. He threw another pick, this one was a late game crucial interception. He also fumbled a few times. Ms. Chicken of the Sea casted a spell over Tony. This is really going to test their relationship. "I was wrong again" - Joe.
Also, how about that slide-down by Westbrook at the end of the game when he could have waltzed into the Dallas endzone? When do you see a player give up personal stats to seal the deal like that? Most NBA players won't hoist up 3/4 court shots at the ends of quarters to preserve their three-point percentage. It was nice to see a player sacrifice almighty stats.
- Mundo noted that he can't remember the last time that the Steelers have played in bright sunshine. It always seems to be raining, snowing or just grey when Pittsburgh plays. And especially at Heinz Field, where the field is always a mess. And the game is always ugly.
- Funny to see the unbridled joy after the Dolphin's first win of the season over the Baltimore Ravens. The crowd was ecstatic, the players were hugging each other like they just clinched a playoff spot. Their owner was even crying. But you've got to give it to them, to stick together through such a rough season without being at each other's throats.
- The Jets had a realistic shot at taking down the Patriots...or at least taking the game into overtime. But they couldn't get the big break in the game. As for the fans, as much as I hate Patriot fans, I would have been throwing snowballs all over the field too. That just looked like too much fun. Some of them flew out of the stands at twice the velocity of Chad Pennington's tosses.
- Fred Taylor had a huge game. I don't know if there's a more enigmatic player in the NFL. He's wildly talented and has put up big numbers, but they just rarely seem to be acheived for an extended period of time.
Capping off a great year in sports...
Last night, Syracuse's Eric Devendorf tore his ACL in a blowout of East Tennessee State University. The junior shooting guard (and by far the most experienced player that actually sees minutes on the team) injured his left knee on a fast break early in the second half of Saturday’s win. Well "who cares?" one may say. Injuries are injuries right? I can't accept that.
This is an unprecedented run of bad luck. This is the second guard to tear his ACL this year as junior Andy Rautins tore his in a game for the Canadian national team. Right there, two scholarship guards and arguably the two best shooters on the team are lost. Well, two gone, still eight contributors left or so, right? Nope.
With senior Josh Wright apparently leaving the team, the backcourt is completely crippled. Wright, despite not seeing much playing time, may have provided some valuable experience as a backup to the point guard position. So with these injuries and Wright leaving the team, Syracuse is left with seven, yes seven, scholarship players that actually play. This is what the roster looks like now, with scholarship players marked with an asterisk:
PG – Jonny Flynn* (Freshman), Justin Thomas (Junior)
SG – Scoop Jardine* (Fr.), Jake Presutti** (Sr.)
SF – Paul Harris* (So.), Mike Williams
PF – Donte Greene* (Fr.), Kristof Ongenaet* (Jr. – juco transfer)
C – Arinze Onuaku* (So. – redshirt), Rick Jackson* (Fr.), Devin Brennan-McBride* (So.), Sean Williams* (Fr.)
PG – Jonny Flynn* (Freshman), Justin Thomas (Junior)
SG – Scoop Jardine* (Fr.), Jake Presutti** (Sr.)
SF – Paul Harris* (So.), Mike Williams
PF – Donte Greene* (Fr.), Kristof Ongenaet* (Jr. – juco transfer)
C – Arinze Onuaku* (So. – redshirt), Rick Jackson* (Fr.), Devin Brennan-McBride* (So.), Sean Williams* (Fr.)
** - Presutti, a former walk-on, was awarded a scholarship this season.
Let’s dissect this roster, which left out a few walk-ons but included Thomas and Presutti, because well, there are only two scholarship guards. The center position appears deep, but Brennan-McBride has been hurt and has seen and will see no time this season. Sean Williams will likely redshirt this season as he hasn’t played at all. Ongenaet is a junior college transfer that has averaged seven minutes per game (most of which came against the early year poor competition).
So this is what Syracuse basketball is left with: Six scholarship players that actually contribute. Four of those six are freshman. Six deep and 2/3 of your players being greatly inexperienced is not the formula needed to succeed in the Big East. With two non-conference losses already, Syracuse needs to win the rest of its out-of-conference slate. Then, the team would likely have to win nine or ten games in Big East play to be considered for the NCAA tournament (last year Syracuse won ten conference games and missed out on the tourney). This is a tall task for six players. Foul trouble, illness, academic problems, another injury, or some other Daryl Gross curse occurrence, and this team has absolutely no bench, literally.
Let’s dissect this roster, which left out a few walk-ons but included Thomas and Presutti, because well, there are only two scholarship guards. The center position appears deep, but Brennan-McBride has been hurt and has seen and will see no time this season. Sean Williams will likely redshirt this season as he hasn’t played at all. Ongenaet is a junior college transfer that has averaged seven minutes per game (most of which came against the early year poor competition).
So this is what Syracuse basketball is left with: Six scholarship players that actually contribute. Four of those six are freshman. Six deep and 2/3 of your players being greatly inexperienced is not the formula needed to succeed in the Big East. With two non-conference losses already, Syracuse needs to win the rest of its out-of-conference slate. Then, the team would likely have to win nine or ten games in Big East play to be considered for the NCAA tournament (last year Syracuse won ten conference games and missed out on the tourney). This is a tall task for six players. Foul trouble, illness, academic problems, another injury, or some other Daryl Gross curse occurrence, and this team has absolutely no bench, literally.
I'm briefly going to try to look at the bright side. Devendorf's injury opens up a great opportunity for both Jackson and Jardine. The two have seen limited playing time, but have shown some promise, and are now tossed right into the fray. The two played together in high school and hopefully will bring some good chemistry to the court. Also, this experience will be very valuable come next season. Devendorf, if healthy, will rejoin the team for his senior season. Greene might go pro. But bringing back all of the young talent with a full season's experience under their belt will be beneficial. And also, at least freak athlete Mike Williams, who is a talented WR on the football team, joined SU’s basketball squad Saturday.
But it's bad news regardless. As I’ve said before, in recent years, Syracuse basketball has provided therapy after the horrendous fall football seasons. But the hardwood squad has not seen great success despite winning the Big East Tournament in 2005 and 2006. Those seasons each ended with first round NCAA tournament losses. Last year the Orange remarkably was snubbed. This season will be trying again. All of this after a 2-10 football season for the ‘Cuse.
Thus wraps up a terrible year of sports. No one wants to hear my whining, but I’m going to go ahead anyway.
- SU Bball: Snubbed from NCAA tournament despite 10 Big East wins and 22 overall.
- Jets: 3-11, disastrous. Could have salvaged season by beating Patriots today, but blew many opportunities.
- SU Football: 2-10. Seven wins in the past 3 years. Administration still heads on to that head coach of those three years, two of which were the worst seasons in Syracuse football history (which stretches over a century). Two best recruits in the past two years suffer possible career threatening injuries. Running joke of college football.
- NY Yankees: Lost in ALDS. At least they made the playoffs. Can’t really complain about them, except for maybe the bugs that attacked the Yanks in Cleveland.
- All the teams I hate - - Celtics, Red Sox, Patriots, Boston College: Celtics one of the best teams in the NBA. Red Sox won some playoff challenge. Patriots charging towards 19-0. BC seeing unheralded success before finally falling apart (sorry Superfans).
I don’t ask you to feel bad for me, I just wanted to vent. But hey, there’s always next season (that doesn’t mean I’m giving up on SU basketball just yet).
-Pat
Photo credit: Syracuse.com
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Thoughts on the Mitchell Report
· One of the biggest surprises to me is that Mark McGuire and Sammy Sosa are not on the list. I know that the list doesn’t include every major leaguer who has ever used steroids, and that absence of proof isn’t the same as proof of absence, but I would imagine that Mitchell tried pretty hard to find something on those two guys and came up empty. This report should somewhat vindicate them and put them both in the Hall.
· If even one player who is listed is able to prove his innocence, this list is going to lose a whole lot of credibility. The evidence on some of the players, such as Baltimore’s Brian Roberts and former Yankee David Justice, is simply one player or trainer’s recollection of a conversation that took place years before. However, very few players have come out immediately and said that the information on the report was false, although Justice’s claim of innocence actually sounds pretty sincere.
· Is it any surprise that a guy named McNamee named names? Come on major league players, you had to see that coming.
· My friend Jordan made a great point today: Jose Canseco is the Al Gore of baseball. Ever since he has been out of the game, he has done everything short holding a press conference about his sexuality to stay relevant, but still no one really takes him seriously. Canseco even tried to sneak his way into the Mitchell Report press conference, but was not allowed in because it was media only. He then re-stated that he had shocking information about Alex Rodriguez, but once again wouldn’t say what it was or why it didn’t make it into his book. I’m just waiting for a SportsCenter breaking news story on Canseco’s attempts to kill ManBearPig.
Photo Credits: http://www.foxnews.com/images/155017/0_21_450_hc_canseco.jpg
By Andrew Vitelli
· If even one player who is listed is able to prove his innocence, this list is going to lose a whole lot of credibility. The evidence on some of the players, such as Baltimore’s Brian Roberts and former Yankee David Justice, is simply one player or trainer’s recollection of a conversation that took place years before. However, very few players have come out immediately and said that the information on the report was false, although Justice’s claim of innocence actually sounds pretty sincere.
· Is it any surprise that a guy named McNamee named names? Come on major league players, you had to see that coming.
· My friend Jordan made a great point today: Jose Canseco is the Al Gore of baseball. Ever since he has been out of the game, he has done everything short holding a press conference about his sexuality to stay relevant, but still no one really takes him seriously. Canseco even tried to sneak his way into the Mitchell Report press conference, but was not allowed in because it was media only. He then re-stated that he had shocking information about Alex Rodriguez, but once again wouldn’t say what it was or why it didn’t make it into his book. I’m just waiting for a SportsCenter breaking news story on Canseco’s attempts to kill ManBearPig.
Photo Credits: http://www.foxnews.com/images/155017/0_21_450_hc_canseco.jpg
By Andrew Vitelli
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Five year old southerner slaughters beast 12 times his size
This story is just too much. In case you didn't see it yesterday here it is.
A five year old named Tre, who can barely speak, shot a 445 pound black bear in Arkansas. He then proceeded to sit on the dead body like it was a swing - which a child his age should probably be playing with instead of a gun. But hey, gotta give it up to the kid. He's got it in his blood, as his 10th great grandfather is Davy Crockett. Last year he killed three deer...as a four year old.
Tre's next goals are a turkey and an elk. Come on Tre. You're a prodigy. You just shot a bear, why move down to turkey? What about an elephant? Or maybe a Great White Shark?
This whole hunting thing is just too much. Maybe it's cause I'm a northern almost city-boy. But I just don't get the whole thing. I'm sure its fun to shoot things, but i mean aren't there other targets? And isn't it a bit much to pose with the dead carcass like its your prom date (pics below)? And isn't five a bit young? Maybe it's a hoax, as last years thousand pound Hog killing may have been.
Warning: Somewhat creepy pictures below
- Pat
A five year old named Tre, who can barely speak, shot a 445 pound black bear in Arkansas. He then proceeded to sit on the dead body like it was a swing - which a child his age should probably be playing with instead of a gun. But hey, gotta give it up to the kid. He's got it in his blood, as his 10th great grandfather is Davy Crockett. Last year he killed three deer...as a four year old.
Tre's next goals are a turkey and an elk. Come on Tre. You're a prodigy. You just shot a bear, why move down to turkey? What about an elephant? Or maybe a Great White Shark?
This whole hunting thing is just too much. Maybe it's cause I'm a northern almost city-boy. But I just don't get the whole thing. I'm sure its fun to shoot things, but i mean aren't there other targets? And isn't it a bit much to pose with the dead carcass like its your prom date (pics below)? And isn't five a bit young? Maybe it's a hoax, as last years thousand pound Hog killing may have been.
Warning: Somewhat creepy pictures below
- Pat
Monday, December 10, 2007
All Hail the Dolphins?
There are plenty of awards that recognize excellence in professional athletics. The Heisman, the Stanley Cup, The Lombardi Trophy, and each league’s MVP all go to exceptional teams or athletes. Teams and players that raise the standards for futility and ineptitude, however, are overlooked when it comes to awards time. At Giving 111%, we make an effort to give these chumps their due. With the Miami Dolphins looking to become the first team in history to go 0-19 (0-16 in the regular season, and 0-3 in the playoffs), I thought it would be appropriate to stack them against the worst professional sports teams since the turn of the century.
#5
2002 Tampa Bay Devil Rays
Record: 55-106
Star Player: Randy Winn (middle name: Rarely) batted .298 and stole 27 bases. Although the Mets must have seen something in Victor Zambrano and his 5.53 ERA.
Achievements: This is more if a lifetime achievement award for a team who has never seen third place since they came into the league. Their leading home run hitter was Ben Grieve, with 19. Their ace was the late Joe Kennedy, with an 8-11 record.
What’s happened since?: In 2004, the Devil Rays achieved their equivalent to a World Series victory as they finished in fourth place in the AL East, ahead of the Baltimore Orioles. They’ve been back to the basement the past 3 years, although they have some talent now with pitcher Scott Kazmir and hitters Carl Crawford and Carlos Pena.
#4
2005 Atlanta Hawks
Record: 13-69 (.159)
Star Player: Antoine Walker averaged over 20 ppg, but shot just .415 from the field before being traded to the Boston Celtics.
Achievements: 13 wins in a whole season? This team never won back to back games, and won a grand total of two games in February and March combined. Opponents averaged 102.5 points against this squad, which included an aging Walker, a young Boris Diaw and rookie Joshes Smith and Childress.
What’s happened since?: Childress, Smith and Tyronn Lue still remain from the last team to approach 70 losses. The Hawks are looking to finally get out of the cellar this year.
#3
2001 Carolina Panthers
Record: 1-15 (.063)
Star Player: Former Heisman Trophy winner Chris Weinke threw for 11 TDs and 19 interceptions in his rookie year. Was recently passed by Drew Henson as biggest football/baseball bust.
Achievements: Started the season with a victory over the Minnesota Vikings. Lost their next 15 games, ending the season with a 32 point loss to the Pats. Ranked 31st in the league in offense and defense. Their leading rusher was Richard Huntley, and their leading receiver was Donald Hayes.
What’s happened since: Were in the playoffs two years later, as Steve Smith, a rookie for the one-win team, emerged as one of the NFL’s best receivers.
#2
2003 Tigers
Record: 43-119 (.264)
Star Player: Dmitri Young actually had a very good year, hitting .297 with 29 home runs.
Achievements: Fell just one loss short of the Mets record of 120 losses. Mike Maroth became the first 20 game loser in 23 years, and Jeremy Bonderman was one loss away from joining him. Their offense wasn’t much better, as they hit .240 as a team.
What’s happened since: The Tigers won the AL pennant in 2006, as they revamped their offense and pitchers Verlander and Bonderman matured.
#1
2007 Miami Dolphins
Record: 0-13 (projected 0-16) (.000 for you mathematicians)
Star Player: Running back Ronnie Brown was averaging almost 100 yards a game and over 5 yards a carry until a week 7 injury ended his season.
Achievements: It looks as though they will likely become the first team since the 1976 Tampa Bay Buccaneers to run the table in the wrong direction. This terrible team got even worse when it lost starting QB Trent Green and RB Brown for the season. Amazingly, they have thrown just 3 touchdowns since Green was injured early in week 5. They lost by 27 points to the 3-10 Jets. Their best chance at a victory is this Sunday against the Ravens at home, and I don’t see it happening.
The 2007 Non-Roberto Clemente Award goes to…
Michael Vick
Who else? Sorry O.J., but even you can’t compete with Vick’s level of stupidity. First, Vick cost himself millions of dollars, some of the prime years of his career and his freedom by getting involved with Bad Newz Kennels, the world’s most famous dog-fighting operation. He then managed to get months tacked onto his sentence when after agreeing to plead guilty he tested positive for marijuana. The proper additions are now being built into Nike’s Michael Vick Experience roller coaster.
Picture Credit: http://images.tsn.ca/images/stories/20060831/cleovert_83556.jpg
By Andrew Vitelli
#5
2002 Tampa Bay Devil Rays
Record: 55-106
Star Player: Randy Winn (middle name: Rarely) batted .298 and stole 27 bases. Although the Mets must have seen something in Victor Zambrano and his 5.53 ERA.
Achievements: This is more if a lifetime achievement award for a team who has never seen third place since they came into the league. Their leading home run hitter was Ben Grieve, with 19. Their ace was the late Joe Kennedy, with an 8-11 record.
What’s happened since?: In 2004, the Devil Rays achieved their equivalent to a World Series victory as they finished in fourth place in the AL East, ahead of the Baltimore Orioles. They’ve been back to the basement the past 3 years, although they have some talent now with pitcher Scott Kazmir and hitters Carl Crawford and Carlos Pena.
#4
2005 Atlanta Hawks
Record: 13-69 (.159)
Star Player: Antoine Walker averaged over 20 ppg, but shot just .415 from the field before being traded to the Boston Celtics.
Achievements: 13 wins in a whole season? This team never won back to back games, and won a grand total of two games in February and March combined. Opponents averaged 102.5 points against this squad, which included an aging Walker, a young Boris Diaw and rookie Joshes Smith and Childress.
What’s happened since?: Childress, Smith and Tyronn Lue still remain from the last team to approach 70 losses. The Hawks are looking to finally get out of the cellar this year.
#3
2001 Carolina Panthers
Record: 1-15 (.063)
Star Player: Former Heisman Trophy winner Chris Weinke threw for 11 TDs and 19 interceptions in his rookie year. Was recently passed by Drew Henson as biggest football/baseball bust.
Achievements: Started the season with a victory over the Minnesota Vikings. Lost their next 15 games, ending the season with a 32 point loss to the Pats. Ranked 31st in the league in offense and defense. Their leading rusher was Richard Huntley, and their leading receiver was Donald Hayes.
What’s happened since: Were in the playoffs two years later, as Steve Smith, a rookie for the one-win team, emerged as one of the NFL’s best receivers.
#2
2003 Tigers
Record: 43-119 (.264)
Star Player: Dmitri Young actually had a very good year, hitting .297 with 29 home runs.
Achievements: Fell just one loss short of the Mets record of 120 losses. Mike Maroth became the first 20 game loser in 23 years, and Jeremy Bonderman was one loss away from joining him. Their offense wasn’t much better, as they hit .240 as a team.
What’s happened since: The Tigers won the AL pennant in 2006, as they revamped their offense and pitchers Verlander and Bonderman matured.
#1
2007 Miami Dolphins
Record: 0-13 (projected 0-16) (.000 for you mathematicians)
Star Player: Running back Ronnie Brown was averaging almost 100 yards a game and over 5 yards a carry until a week 7 injury ended his season.
Achievements: It looks as though they will likely become the first team since the 1976 Tampa Bay Buccaneers to run the table in the wrong direction. This terrible team got even worse when it lost starting QB Trent Green and RB Brown for the season. Amazingly, they have thrown just 3 touchdowns since Green was injured early in week 5. They lost by 27 points to the 3-10 Jets. Their best chance at a victory is this Sunday against the Ravens at home, and I don’t see it happening.
The 2007 Non-Roberto Clemente Award goes to…
Michael Vick
Who else? Sorry O.J., but even you can’t compete with Vick’s level of stupidity. First, Vick cost himself millions of dollars, some of the prime years of his career and his freedom by getting involved with Bad Newz Kennels, the world’s most famous dog-fighting operation. He then managed to get months tacked onto his sentence when after agreeing to plead guilty he tested positive for marijuana. The proper additions are now being built into Nike’s Michael Vick Experience roller coaster.
Picture Credit: http://images.tsn.ca/images/stories/20060831/cleovert_83556.jpg
By Andrew Vitelli
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Big Saturday in College Football
On Monday, we put together an 8-team playoff for college football based on our non-expert opinions (The Matchups). The first week of action in our simulated NCAA Football playoffs was just as unpredictable and wild as the regular season, with three of the lower seeds prevailing. Keep an eye out for round two coming soon.
#8 Missouri Tigers 35, #1 Hawaii Warriors 28
Hawaii gave Missouri all they could handle, with Colt Brennan matching Chase Daniels touchdown for touchdown. Brennan threw for all four Hawaii scores, including a fourth quarter touchdown to tie the game. Daniels, however, responded by leading the Bulldogs down the field before running for the winning touchdown. He also threw for 3 touchdowns. Brennan was picked late in the game to seal a Missouri victory.
#7 Virginia Tech Hokies 27, #2 Ohio State Buckeyes 10
The top two teams have been losing all season. Why would we expect the trend to stop come playoff time? Ohio State came up short in its toughest test of the season. Tech, coming off two impressive road wins, was led by the play of quarterback Sean Glennon, who topped 300 yards for the first time all season. Buckeyes QB Todd Boeckman struggled as the Hokies jumped out to an early lead, and Ohio State was never able to close the gap. It was Ohio State’s second loss in their last three games.
#3 LSU Tigers 40, #6 Oklahoma Sooners 37
Oklahoma was coming off a decisive victory over then No. 1 Missouri in the Big 12 championship game, while LSU was also riding high after winning the SEC. In a great matchup, star freshman QB Sam Bradford faced a tough and physical LSU defense. Although the LSU defense allowed only 181 pass yards per game, it struggled against spread offenses like Kentucky. But Les Miles, with enough time to prep his squad, didn't let Oklahoma run wild. Bradford, despite showing great poise all year, got rattled by the LSU defensive pressure led by DT Glenn Dorsey. On offense, the Tigers struggled as well against a stout Oklahoma defense. But the combination of Matt Flynn and Ryan Perrilloux at quarterback, as well as Jacob Hester running for tough yards late in the game, pulled one out for LSU. In an extremely close battle, LSU finally won a triple overtime game.
#5 USC Trojans 37, #4 Georgia Bulldogs 27
Georgia hadn't played since Nov. 24, but the Bulldogs were still riding a hot streak after winning six straight to close out the season. USC also had great momentum, ending the year with four wins, including two against ranked foes. Georgia's defense shored up late in the year and the offense was clicking with a great balanced attack. Freshman Knowshon Moreno is one of the better running backs in the nation, and he is backed up by another dynamic runner in Thomas Brown, who averaged 5.5 yards per carry. Quarterback Matthew Stafford had been solid - taking care of the ball with only 9 interceptions. The Trojan defense had given up less than 80 yards rushing per game, and allowed less than 16 points on average. The Bulldogs attempted to establish the run early, but after falling behind quickly, had to lean a little heavier on the passing attack. Stafford valiantly tried to guide the Bulldogs down the field but struggled to match USC score for score. With a healthy John David Booty behind center, the Trojans put up 37 on Georgia. Faced with the tall task of coming back against a stout USC secondary, Georgia falls short.
Check back next week to find out who will be playing for the National Championship
Picture Credits:
Top: http://images.athlonsports.com/d/3675-2/DanielC170101406_112.jpg
Center: http://assets.espn.go.com/photo/2006/1005/ncf_u_dorsey_195.jpg
By Pat and Andrew
Weighing In on the Weigh-Ins
Just a quick thought here with the Mayweather-Hatton fight coming up tonight after an interesting confrontation at the weigh-in. What’s the deal with boxing weigh-ins and press conferences? Boxers seem to have a flair for the dramatic. Combine that with the fact that they are mostly meatheads, and their brains have been walloped for years, and the events turn into strange masculine debacles.
Even after the Holyfield ear incident, Mike Tyson decided to bite Lennox Lewis’ leg at this fracas.
Muhammad Ali was a huge talker back in the day, jawing at his opponents in the pre-match festivities. But now the events have both the jawing, and the fighting, as seemingly each one explodes into a brawl. Or at least there are some strange hyper-masculine occurrences that indeed do not look very masculine at all. In this case, Mayweather and Hatton didn't break into a brawl, but the two of course exchanged some verbal tirades and then the awkward face to face stare. I don't know, this whole thing just cracks me up.
Getting to know each other.........then going in for round 2?
- Pat
Photos: espn.com
Even after the Holyfield ear incident, Mike Tyson decided to bite Lennox Lewis’ leg at this fracas.
Muhammad Ali was a huge talker back in the day, jawing at his opponents in the pre-match festivities. But now the events have both the jawing, and the fighting, as seemingly each one explodes into a brawl. Or at least there are some strange hyper-masculine occurrences that indeed do not look very masculine at all. In this case, Mayweather and Hatton didn't break into a brawl, but the two of course exchanged some verbal tirades and then the awkward face to face stare. I don't know, this whole thing just cracks me up.
Getting to know each other.........then going in for round 2?
- Pat
Photos: espn.com
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Wait?! Sean Singletary wasn't 100 percent?
Great victory for Syracuse hoops last night with a 70-68 triumph at the University of Virginia. Apparently the ACC can’t keep up with the Big East play. ESPN’s Mike Patrick said the game was like an episode of ER. It was more of an episode of the ACC team not being able to handle the physical and fast play of a Big East squad like Syracuse. Leg cramps, pulled hamstrings, and strep throat? Come on...
But at least that wasn’t all the ESPN team talked about. The studio guys, some scrub and Hubert Davis, couldn’t stop explaining how this was the first time Syracuse has been out of the state of NY before Big East play in this Millenium. Enough already. Florida doesn’t play on the road till the 22nd of December. Leave the ‘Cuse alone.
All this, combined with the announcing, took away from what should have been the main story: a great road non-conference win for Syracuse, led by two stud freshman in Jonny Flynn and Donte Greene. UVA was previously 20-1 at John Paul Jones Arena.
But, the first thing Patrick said after the victory was, “UVA star Sean Singletary (who apparently may have had strep throat) gave it his all, but just couldn’t pull it out.” They wouldn’t stop talking about his illness during the game. Sure, it was influential for the game. You should talk about it, but to a certain extent. Syracuse deserved some attention for going into a very tough building and coming out with a win despite the Orange's tremendous youth. But ESPN just couldn’t stop focusing its cameras on Singletary or chirping about him, despite a close finish. At one point, color analyst Len Elmore even left the broadcast table for a few minutes to go check on Singletary. When has any announcer ever done this? Isn’t that Craig Sager’s job? Give me a break.
But at least that wasn’t all the ESPN team talked about. The studio guys, some scrub and Hubert Davis, couldn’t stop explaining how this was the first time Syracuse has been out of the state of NY before Big East play in this Millenium. Enough already. Florida doesn’t play on the road till the 22nd of December. Leave the ‘Cuse alone.
All this, combined with the announcing, took away from what should have been the main story: a great road non-conference win for Syracuse, led by two stud freshman in Jonny Flynn and Donte Greene. UVA was previously 20-1 at John Paul Jones Arena.
But, the first thing Patrick said after the victory was, “UVA star Sean Singletary (who apparently may have had strep throat) gave it his all, but just couldn’t pull it out.” They wouldn’t stop talking about his illness during the game. Sure, it was influential for the game. You should talk about it, but to a certain extent. Syracuse deserved some attention for going into a very tough building and coming out with a win despite the Orange's tremendous youth. But ESPN just couldn’t stop focusing its cameras on Singletary or chirping about him, despite a close finish. At one point, color analyst Len Elmore even left the broadcast table for a few minutes to go check on Singletary. When has any announcer ever done this? Isn’t that Craig Sager’s job? Give me a break.
Analyst Len Elmore....yea....
So now, despite a good win in a hostile non conference environment, we’re likely going to have to hear “experts” like Doug Gottlieb hate on Syracuse and harp about how the team beat UVA because Singletary was sick. Although it’s absurdly early, I’m hoping that come selection time, if SU has done enough to be considered, that the committee will see UVA as the good non-conference road win Syracuse was lacking last season. They asked Syracuse to play a marquee road game in December. The Orange did. And it won. Hopefully that’s the storyline that’s remembered.
But most of this will be for naught if SU doesn't bring it on Saturday at the Carrier Dome against a very good 9-1 Rhode Island team. Let's just hope Singletary didn't infect any Syracuse players.
-Pat
Photos: dailyorange.com, viewimages.com
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Where are the 2003 Florida Marlins now?
In just a matter of years, the Marlins went from the 2003 World Series Champions with a lofty payroll of $54 million (good for 21st in the league), to a team with a possible payroll of less than $10 million for next season. That’s about 1/10th of the higher end payrolls, and 1/20th of the New York Yankees payroll.
How is such a feat accomplished? Well, the Marlins have mastered the move. It’s called dumping everyone, most recently Dontrelle Willis and Miguel Cabrera. Turnover is expected in baseball, just ask Kenny Lofton. But in an unprecedented maneuver, the Florida Marlins have successfully ridded themselves of every player on the 2003 roster that tasted success. Sure, they are building for the future. But in a mere four years, the entire World Series championship team is now scattered amongst the majors, and elsewhere.
Here’s a peek at where the 2003 Marlins are now, based off of their 40-man 2003 roster:
Pitchers:
Armando Almanza – Last pitched for the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2005.
Juan Alvarez – His career ended in mid 2003.
Josh Beckett – Pitches for some team up in New England.
Toby Borland – Retired in 2004 with the Marlins.
Nate Bump – Hasn’t pitched since 2005, location unknown. But he’s not on the Marlins roster, probably a bit too pricey.
A.J. Burnett – Hopping on and off the DL over the border in Canada with the Blue Jays.
Chad Fox – Underwent two Tommy John surgeries, and retired after the second with the Chicago Cubs. Funny, he was on the 2003 Marlins who squashed the dreams of the Cubs in the NLCS. Wonder if he ever thanked Steve Bartman.
Rick Helling – A miraculous holdover from the 1997 World Series champion Marlins. Oh wait, no, he went back to the Texas Rangers in the six year span before ‘03. And also pitched for the Orioles.
Allen Levrault – Last pitched for the Marlins in 2003, before their playoff push. That’s all I know, he doesn’t even have a Wikipedia page.
Braden Looper – Pitched for the Mets and now St. Louis. Actually became a starter and won 12 games for the Cardinals. He saved 28 games for the Marlins in 2003, obviously making him too valuable to keep.
Blaine Neal – He’s now in Syracuse?! He’s right in my backyard pitching for the Syracuse Sky Chiefs, the Toronto Blue Jays Triple-A affiliate.
Vladimir Nunez – Playing for the White Sox Triple-A team, the Charlotte Knights.
Kevin Olsen – Last pitched for the Marlins in 2003.
Carl Pavano – Making more than the entire current Marlins organization with the New York Yankees by taking the mound once every couple months.
Brad Penny – Had a Cy-Young type year with the Dodgers. But his salary alone is $8 million.
Tommy Phelps – Another transfer to the Yankees, currently takes the mound for the AAA Scraton/Wilkes-Barre Yanks.
Mark Redman – An All-Star in 2006, who knew he’s now in the minor leagues? After undergoing surgery for an ingrown toenail, Mark was shipped around to four different minor league teams, finally settling with Colorado’s Triple-A Colorado Springs Sky Sox. Made an emergency start for the Rockies in September, after a long road to recovery, but is back in the minors.
Tim Spooneybarger – Last pitched in mid 2003, decided he could go elsewhere with such a unique last name.
Michael Tejera – Is that Miguel Tejada? Oh no, Michael Tejera. Yea, he pitched a grand total of 11 1/3 innings after 2003 in three years and is currently retired.
Ugueth Urbina – Hmm. This one went a bit south after his release from the Marlins, literally. Hopped on board with the Tigers and then the Phillies, but then decided to make a trip down to Venezuela. He was charged with attempted murder for dousing five workers on his property with gasoline, and swinging a machete at them. I must say this is one of the Marlins better releases. He’s currently serving 14 years in Venezuelan prison, which, despite common thought, is worse than playing in Pro-Player stadium (or whatever its called now).
Justin Wayne – Last pitched for the minor league Newark Bears and is now searching for a team.
Dontrelle Willis – Shipped off to Detroit with Cabrera. Should fit right in with the nickname "D-Train"
Catchers:
Ramon Castro – Has hopped around as a backup catcher, now with the New York Mets.
Mike Redmond – Backup to Joe Mauer in Minnesota.
Ivan Rodriguez – Now reunited with Cabrera and Dontrelle in Detroit. Thankful that his nickname Pudge will finally be passed on to one of his new teammates.
Infielders:
Brian Banks – Retired from MLB after tasting sweet victory in 2003
Luis Castillo – Recently inked a four year contract with the New York Mets. Somehow the only player lucky enough to avoid the pink slip from the championship year in 1997 all the way through 2003.
Alex Gonzalez – One of the longer holdovers as he made it all the way till 2005 with the Marlins, but then the inevitable happened, and he was snatched up. Now plays for the Cincinnati Reds.
Derek Lee – Accepted by Cubs fans in 2004, despite the 2003 nightmare. Yet another good player making the puzzling move of leaving the Marlins to ink a contract elsewhere (now makes $13 million plus).
Mike Lowell – Signed for three more years by a team with red-colored socks. Has prospered with a short left field instead of trying to hit the ball out of the endzone in left with the Marlins.
Outfielders:
Chad Allen – Tossed around by a few teams and currently a free agent after leaving the Kansas City minor league system.
Miguel Cabrera – Searching for the best cuisine in Detroit. Gotta love only dishing out enough money to use your best prospect until he's 24.
Jeff Conine – Won the WS with the Marlins in ’97. Then played for a few years with the Orioles. Came back to win again in 2003. Left again for the Orioles. Interesting team choices. Finally retired in September after choking along with the New York Mets.
Juan Encarnacion – Played for the Dodgers in 2004. Won the lottery and got a second chance with the Marlins. But after two years, signed with St. Louis. Currently lacing up the spikes for the St. Louis Cardinals with fellow former Marlin Braden Looper.
Andy Fox – Once a Yankee prospect, Fox found his way to Florida, where he got a ring in 2003. Despite leaving for the Expos in 2004, Andy has once again retreated to Florida, where he is the first base coach for the Marlins.
Lenny Harris – This one is the biggest headscratcher. How do you get rid of “pinch hitter extraordinaire” Lenny Harris? He played his final game for the Marlins in 2005. The biggest reason for the Marlins lack of success after that season? The missing puzzle piece that is Lenny Harris. Harris, the holder of the most pinch hits in baseball history, is now a coach with the Cincinnati Reds.
Todd Hollandsworth – Testing the free agent market. Last played for the Indians and Reds in 2006.
Mike Mordecai – Hard to list him as an outfielder as he’s played just about every position but pitcher. After the 2004 season, Mordecai left the major leagues.
Juan Pierre – Enjoyed arguably his best years in Florida. He and Castillo actually made the team quite entertaining. Since, he’s bounced from Chicago to LA. What’s with the Cubs grabbing all of the Marlins that hurt them in 2003? That won't help break a curse.
Gerald Williams – Most fondly held in my heart for putting Pedro Martinez on the turf(see video below), Williams was a bit on the downside of his career at this point. His career ended as a backup outfielder with the Mets in 2005.
SO, there you have it. The 2003 Florida Marlins: now spread around the MLB, coaches’ boxes, golf courses and Venezuelan prisons.
The team salary in 2003 - $54 million
In 2007 – http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/teams/roster?team=fla
With the salaries that can be counted, $10,982,000.
If you can, wait till number 5 - that's Gerald Williams
-Pat
Thanks to baseball-almanac.com and Wikipedia
How is such a feat accomplished? Well, the Marlins have mastered the move. It’s called dumping everyone, most recently Dontrelle Willis and Miguel Cabrera. Turnover is expected in baseball, just ask Kenny Lofton. But in an unprecedented maneuver, the Florida Marlins have successfully ridded themselves of every player on the 2003 roster that tasted success. Sure, they are building for the future. But in a mere four years, the entire World Series championship team is now scattered amongst the majors, and elsewhere.
Here’s a peek at where the 2003 Marlins are now, based off of their 40-man 2003 roster:
Pitchers:
Armando Almanza – Last pitched for the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2005.
Juan Alvarez – His career ended in mid 2003.
Josh Beckett – Pitches for some team up in New England.
Toby Borland – Retired in 2004 with the Marlins.
Nate Bump – Hasn’t pitched since 2005, location unknown. But he’s not on the Marlins roster, probably a bit too pricey.
A.J. Burnett – Hopping on and off the DL over the border in Canada with the Blue Jays.
Chad Fox – Underwent two Tommy John surgeries, and retired after the second with the Chicago Cubs. Funny, he was on the 2003 Marlins who squashed the dreams of the Cubs in the NLCS. Wonder if he ever thanked Steve Bartman.
Rick Helling – A miraculous holdover from the 1997 World Series champion Marlins. Oh wait, no, he went back to the Texas Rangers in the six year span before ‘03. And also pitched for the Orioles.
Allen Levrault – Last pitched for the Marlins in 2003, before their playoff push. That’s all I know, he doesn’t even have a Wikipedia page.
Braden Looper – Pitched for the Mets and now St. Louis. Actually became a starter and won 12 games for the Cardinals. He saved 28 games for the Marlins in 2003, obviously making him too valuable to keep.
Blaine Neal – He’s now in Syracuse?! He’s right in my backyard pitching for the Syracuse Sky Chiefs, the Toronto Blue Jays Triple-A affiliate.
Vladimir Nunez – Playing for the White Sox Triple-A team, the Charlotte Knights.
Kevin Olsen – Last pitched for the Marlins in 2003.
Carl Pavano – Making more than the entire current Marlins organization with the New York Yankees by taking the mound once every couple months.
Brad Penny – Had a Cy-Young type year with the Dodgers. But his salary alone is $8 million.
Tommy Phelps – Another transfer to the Yankees, currently takes the mound for the AAA Scraton/Wilkes-Barre Yanks.
Mark Redman – An All-Star in 2006, who knew he’s now in the minor leagues? After undergoing surgery for an ingrown toenail, Mark was shipped around to four different minor league teams, finally settling with Colorado’s Triple-A Colorado Springs Sky Sox. Made an emergency start for the Rockies in September, after a long road to recovery, but is back in the minors.
Tim Spooneybarger – Last pitched in mid 2003, decided he could go elsewhere with such a unique last name.
Michael Tejera – Is that Miguel Tejada? Oh no, Michael Tejera. Yea, he pitched a grand total of 11 1/3 innings after 2003 in three years and is currently retired.
Ugueth Urbina – Hmm. This one went a bit south after his release from the Marlins, literally. Hopped on board with the Tigers and then the Phillies, but then decided to make a trip down to Venezuela. He was charged with attempted murder for dousing five workers on his property with gasoline, and swinging a machete at them. I must say this is one of the Marlins better releases. He’s currently serving 14 years in Venezuelan prison, which, despite common thought, is worse than playing in Pro-Player stadium (or whatever its called now).
Justin Wayne – Last pitched for the minor league Newark Bears and is now searching for a team.
Dontrelle Willis – Shipped off to Detroit with Cabrera. Should fit right in with the nickname "D-Train"
Catchers:
Ramon Castro – Has hopped around as a backup catcher, now with the New York Mets.
Mike Redmond – Backup to Joe Mauer in Minnesota.
Ivan Rodriguez – Now reunited with Cabrera and Dontrelle in Detroit. Thankful that his nickname Pudge will finally be passed on to one of his new teammates.
Infielders:
Brian Banks – Retired from MLB after tasting sweet victory in 2003
Luis Castillo – Recently inked a four year contract with the New York Mets. Somehow the only player lucky enough to avoid the pink slip from the championship year in 1997 all the way through 2003.
Alex Gonzalez – One of the longer holdovers as he made it all the way till 2005 with the Marlins, but then the inevitable happened, and he was snatched up. Now plays for the Cincinnati Reds.
Derek Lee – Accepted by Cubs fans in 2004, despite the 2003 nightmare. Yet another good player making the puzzling move of leaving the Marlins to ink a contract elsewhere (now makes $13 million plus).
Mike Lowell – Signed for three more years by a team with red-colored socks. Has prospered with a short left field instead of trying to hit the ball out of the endzone in left with the Marlins.
Outfielders:
Chad Allen – Tossed around by a few teams and currently a free agent after leaving the Kansas City minor league system.
Miguel Cabrera – Searching for the best cuisine in Detroit. Gotta love only dishing out enough money to use your best prospect until he's 24.
Jeff Conine – Won the WS with the Marlins in ’97. Then played for a few years with the Orioles. Came back to win again in 2003. Left again for the Orioles. Interesting team choices. Finally retired in September after choking along with the New York Mets.
Juan Encarnacion – Played for the Dodgers in 2004. Won the lottery and got a second chance with the Marlins. But after two years, signed with St. Louis. Currently lacing up the spikes for the St. Louis Cardinals with fellow former Marlin Braden Looper.
Andy Fox – Once a Yankee prospect, Fox found his way to Florida, where he got a ring in 2003. Despite leaving for the Expos in 2004, Andy has once again retreated to Florida, where he is the first base coach for the Marlins.
Lenny Harris – This one is the biggest headscratcher. How do you get rid of “pinch hitter extraordinaire” Lenny Harris? He played his final game for the Marlins in 2005. The biggest reason for the Marlins lack of success after that season? The missing puzzle piece that is Lenny Harris. Harris, the holder of the most pinch hits in baseball history, is now a coach with the Cincinnati Reds.
Todd Hollandsworth – Testing the free agent market. Last played for the Indians and Reds in 2006.
Mike Mordecai – Hard to list him as an outfielder as he’s played just about every position but pitcher. After the 2004 season, Mordecai left the major leagues.
Juan Pierre – Enjoyed arguably his best years in Florida. He and Castillo actually made the team quite entertaining. Since, he’s bounced from Chicago to LA. What’s with the Cubs grabbing all of the Marlins that hurt them in 2003? That won't help break a curse.
Gerald Williams – Most fondly held in my heart for putting Pedro Martinez on the turf(see video below), Williams was a bit on the downside of his career at this point. His career ended as a backup outfielder with the Mets in 2005.
SO, there you have it. The 2003 Florida Marlins: now spread around the MLB, coaches’ boxes, golf courses and Venezuelan prisons.
The team salary in 2003 - $54 million
In 2007 – http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/teams/roster?team=fla
With the salaries that can be counted, $10,982,000.
If you can, wait till number 5 - that's Gerald Williams
-Pat
Thanks to baseball-almanac.com and Wikipedia
Monday, December 3, 2007
Finally, a College Football Playoffs
Think that the champion of college football should be determined on the field, not by a computer? In an ideal world we’d just have a playoff for college football. While we can’t have a 65 team bracket like college basketball, there’s still room for a postseason tournament. The best possibility is a final four type tournament with semifinal and championship games. But just for the sake of it, here’s our eight team tournament that would dictate college football’s, not some computer’s, national champion. Keep checking back to see our results of these games, which will be posted in the upcoming days/weeks (unfortunately no one can watch the games, as they are only carried by the NFL Network):
No. 1 seed: Hawaii Warriors (12-0) - - WAC conference
While not playing the toughest schedule, QB Colt Brennan (above) and the Hawaii Warriors were the only team in Division 1 to finish the season undefeated. Sure they just eeked out a win against Washington at home. But think beating the teams you're supposed to beat is easy? Tell that to Ohio State hosting Illinois, Michigan hosting Appalachian State, WVU hosting Pittsburgh, Boston College hosting Florida State, USC hosting Stanford. And those are only home games, and only a handful of the boatload of massive upsets this year. So while the Warriors only beat one ranked team (Boise State), and while they play in the non-BCS Western Athletic Conference, they did everything they could to win. Hawaii was the only team to not lose a game. There are only two teams that lost one. Therefore, Hawaii gets the nod as we hope for another Boise State type game. If the Warriors blow it, the little guys don’t get as much respect next year.
No. 2: Ohio State Buckeyes (11-1) - - Big Ten
This wasn’t an easy decision. But since we have a playoff, the choice to put Ohio State at number two doesn’t mean everything. They played in a down Big Ten this year. They lost to then unranked Illinois at home. But in the same 25 day period, they also won tough games against Wisconsin and at Penn State and Michigan. While not playing as tough a schedule as some of the other contenders, they were one of two major conference teams to come out of the season with just one loss. And the Buckeyes are much better than that Kansas squad.
No. 3: LSU Tigers (11-2) - - SEC
LSU has the most impressive resume of any team in the top 8. Although the team has two losses, they were both in triple overtime. One game was at then No. 17 Kentucky. The other loss was to a team with Heisman contender Darren McFadden. LSU plays in the nation’s toughest conference, and has six wins against ranked teams (including two against top 10 squads). They beat Virginia Tech by 41. They go for it on virtually every fourth down. Les Miles called for a pass from the 22 yard line when the team was down one point to Auburn. This team is exciting, and impressive.
No. 4: Georgia Bulldogs (10-2) - - SEC
So the Bulldogs didn’t play in their conference championship game. That’s unfortunate as it would have helped their case. But Georgia won its last six games, including four SEC contests and three against ranked squads. The Bulldogs are hot, led by one of the most electrifying players in the nation with one of the best names, RB Knowshon Moreno. Georgia gets the nod at 4 because of their recent success through the difficult SEC. It wasn’t an easy choice, but No. 4 plays No. 5 anyways, so yet again, thanks to the playoff system, the seeding isn’t all or nothing.
No. 5: USC Trojans (10-2) - - Pac 10
Another tough choice. USC could have made it to four, but we just couldn’t justify a loss to Stanford at home. More forgivable is the seven-point loss to Oregon on the road. The team has enough quality wins to sneak in at 5, including wins over three ranked squads. Oklahoma has also beat three ranked schools. But the quality of the Pac 10 is superior to the Big 12, and we know USC always brings it during bowl season.
No. 6: Oklahoma Sooners (11-2) - - Big 12
Oklahoma settles into the number six spot after winning the Big 12 championship. It’s somewhat low for a BCS conference champion, but we’re not buying the Big 12 this year. Texas was down, Texas A&M struggled mightily, and Baylor and Iowa State were horrific. The Sooners, however, did beat a tough Missouri team twice. In one of their losses (to Texas Tech) they were without starting quarterback Sam Bradford. Oklahoma is definitely a solid team, and if they don’t like this ranking, then they can prove us wrong by plowing through the field.
No. 7: Virginia Tech Hokies (11-2) - - ACC
Virginia Tech’s only two losses were to then No. 2 teams Boston College and LSU. But the loss to LSU (their prime out of conference game) was by a wide margin of 41 points. The Hokies also did not have any other prime out of conference games, playing the likes of Ohio and William & Mary. They did win the ACC championship, but the league was inconsistent this season. VT did not have to face ACC juggernaut Maryland either. The Hokies offense has also struggled at times this season. That being said, the defense and special teams are outstanding as usual. VT also beat three ranked teams, and if it weren’t for that last second loss to BC, would be much higher.
No. 8: Missouri Tigers (11-2) - - Big 12
Mizzou slides in the last spot, after just missing out on playing the national championship game. Missouri, unlike other teams vying for number eight (WVU, Illinois), has no bad losses. The Tigers only lost to Oklahoma, albeit twice. But the team won most of its games decisively, including a 36-28 win over Kansas and a blowout of Texas Tech 41-10. They don’t boast an extremely impressive list of eye popping wins, but Missouri took care of business. Also, quarterback Chase Daniel and a dynamic spread offense give the Tigers a chance to compete with anyone.
Hey, what about us?!?!?
West Virginia (10-2) - - Big East – As much as we (Pat) would love to have a Big East representative their best wins, Cincinnati and UConn, don’t exactly blow us away. And they had a shot at the BCS Championship Game if they beat Pitt and couldn’t pull out a victory? Sorry, teams that choke in their biggest moments don’t belong.
Kansas (11-1) - - Big 12 – Kansas is one of just two one-loss teams in the nation, and that loss was to Missouri. But Kansas just didn’t beat anyone good. Is this hypocritical, since we put Hawaii as the top seed? Maybe. Mark Mangino, (pictured below) please don’t eat us.
Illinois (9-3) - - Big Ten – Illinois has some big wins, including a game at Ohio State and against Wisconsin. However, they’ve lost to two teams that are not currently in the Top 25, and we just couldn’t bring ourselves to put in a three-loss team.
Picture Credit (above): http://msnbcmedia2.msn.com/j/apmegasports/200612250004002723105-pf.widec.jpg
Picture Credit (below): http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m158/Jeofrie/kansas/mangino.jpg
No. 1 seed: Hawaii Warriors (12-0) - - WAC conference
While not playing the toughest schedule, QB Colt Brennan (above) and the Hawaii Warriors were the only team in Division 1 to finish the season undefeated. Sure they just eeked out a win against Washington at home. But think beating the teams you're supposed to beat is easy? Tell that to Ohio State hosting Illinois, Michigan hosting Appalachian State, WVU hosting Pittsburgh, Boston College hosting Florida State, USC hosting Stanford. And those are only home games, and only a handful of the boatload of massive upsets this year. So while the Warriors only beat one ranked team (Boise State), and while they play in the non-BCS Western Athletic Conference, they did everything they could to win. Hawaii was the only team to not lose a game. There are only two teams that lost one. Therefore, Hawaii gets the nod as we hope for another Boise State type game. If the Warriors blow it, the little guys don’t get as much respect next year.
No. 2: Ohio State Buckeyes (11-1) - - Big Ten
This wasn’t an easy decision. But since we have a playoff, the choice to put Ohio State at number two doesn’t mean everything. They played in a down Big Ten this year. They lost to then unranked Illinois at home. But in the same 25 day period, they also won tough games against Wisconsin and at Penn State and Michigan. While not playing as tough a schedule as some of the other contenders, they were one of two major conference teams to come out of the season with just one loss. And the Buckeyes are much better than that Kansas squad.
No. 3: LSU Tigers (11-2) - - SEC
LSU has the most impressive resume of any team in the top 8. Although the team has two losses, they were both in triple overtime. One game was at then No. 17 Kentucky. The other loss was to a team with Heisman contender Darren McFadden. LSU plays in the nation’s toughest conference, and has six wins against ranked teams (including two against top 10 squads). They beat Virginia Tech by 41. They go for it on virtually every fourth down. Les Miles called for a pass from the 22 yard line when the team was down one point to Auburn. This team is exciting, and impressive.
No. 4: Georgia Bulldogs (10-2) - - SEC
So the Bulldogs didn’t play in their conference championship game. That’s unfortunate as it would have helped their case. But Georgia won its last six games, including four SEC contests and three against ranked squads. The Bulldogs are hot, led by one of the most electrifying players in the nation with one of the best names, RB Knowshon Moreno. Georgia gets the nod at 4 because of their recent success through the difficult SEC. It wasn’t an easy choice, but No. 4 plays No. 5 anyways, so yet again, thanks to the playoff system, the seeding isn’t all or nothing.
No. 5: USC Trojans (10-2) - - Pac 10
Another tough choice. USC could have made it to four, but we just couldn’t justify a loss to Stanford at home. More forgivable is the seven-point loss to Oregon on the road. The team has enough quality wins to sneak in at 5, including wins over three ranked squads. Oklahoma has also beat three ranked schools. But the quality of the Pac 10 is superior to the Big 12, and we know USC always brings it during bowl season.
No. 6: Oklahoma Sooners (11-2) - - Big 12
Oklahoma settles into the number six spot after winning the Big 12 championship. It’s somewhat low for a BCS conference champion, but we’re not buying the Big 12 this year. Texas was down, Texas A&M struggled mightily, and Baylor and Iowa State were horrific. The Sooners, however, did beat a tough Missouri team twice. In one of their losses (to Texas Tech) they were without starting quarterback Sam Bradford. Oklahoma is definitely a solid team, and if they don’t like this ranking, then they can prove us wrong by plowing through the field.
No. 7: Virginia Tech Hokies (11-2) - - ACC
Virginia Tech’s only two losses were to then No. 2 teams Boston College and LSU. But the loss to LSU (their prime out of conference game) was by a wide margin of 41 points. The Hokies also did not have any other prime out of conference games, playing the likes of Ohio and William & Mary. They did win the ACC championship, but the league was inconsistent this season. VT did not have to face ACC juggernaut Maryland either. The Hokies offense has also struggled at times this season. That being said, the defense and special teams are outstanding as usual. VT also beat three ranked teams, and if it weren’t for that last second loss to BC, would be much higher.
No. 8: Missouri Tigers (11-2) - - Big 12
Mizzou slides in the last spot, after just missing out on playing the national championship game. Missouri, unlike other teams vying for number eight (WVU, Illinois), has no bad losses. The Tigers only lost to Oklahoma, albeit twice. But the team won most of its games decisively, including a 36-28 win over Kansas and a blowout of Texas Tech 41-10. They don’t boast an extremely impressive list of eye popping wins, but Missouri took care of business. Also, quarterback Chase Daniel and a dynamic spread offense give the Tigers a chance to compete with anyone.
Hey, what about us?!?!?
West Virginia (10-2) - - Big East – As much as we (Pat) would love to have a Big East representative their best wins, Cincinnati and UConn, don’t exactly blow us away. And they had a shot at the BCS Championship Game if they beat Pitt and couldn’t pull out a victory? Sorry, teams that choke in their biggest moments don’t belong.
Kansas (11-1) - - Big 12 – Kansas is one of just two one-loss teams in the nation, and that loss was to Missouri. But Kansas just didn’t beat anyone good. Is this hypocritical, since we put Hawaii as the top seed? Maybe. Mark Mangino, (pictured below) please don’t eat us.
Illinois (9-3) - - Big Ten – Illinois has some big wins, including a game at Ohio State and against Wisconsin. However, they’ve lost to two teams that are not currently in the Top 25, and we just couldn’t bring ourselves to put in a three-loss team.
Picture Credit (above): http://msnbcmedia2.msn.com/j/apmegasports/200612250004002723105-pf.widec.jpg
Picture Credit (below): http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m158/Jeofrie/kansas/mangino.jpg
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Johan talk heating up
Even in December, baseball is always a hot topic for New York natives. Recently, it was announced that the Yankees would perhaps be willing to part with future ace Phil Hughes if that was what it took to make a deal for Johan Santana. Is this deal worth it for the Yankees? Pat (playing, to some degree, the devil’s advocate) says yes, while Andrew says no.
Andrew: This trade reminds me of something that the 2002-2006 Yankees would do. They have a good, young team with a lot of potential and a pitching staff filled with talented young starters. There is certainly not a hole in the rotation. Also, their outfield defense should be stellar as Melky and Abreu have above average arms in center and right. By trading for Santana, they would be going after the big name available at whatever cost instead of making the moves necessary to build a complete and winning ball team.
Pat: See, that's where I think you're overreacting. The flaw, at least last year and in the years past, has been a lack of an established, dominant ace (to go along with a poor bullpen). This team can keep a lot of that youth that you are right in saying is very promising, while trading away just two of them for the best pitcher of this decade. When you have the chance to grab Santana, you're going to have to give up something. Melky has probably somewhat reached his ceiling as a .290 hitter with a little pop and a good outfielder. Hughes has a lot of potential. But, in getting Santana, you're getting a lefty that's established himself as one of the most dominant arms in the league. And unlike Carl Pavano, he's pitched in the AL. There's might not be a hole in the rotation, but there are some serious question marks. Three of the five starters, Kennedy, Joba and Hughes, have started a combined 16 games at the big league level. Shoring this up with an established ace that will not only be valuable in the regular season but indispensable in the postseason, is more important than outfield defense
Andrew: Another thing to keep in mind, though, is that if the Yankees trade for Santana they will also be signing him to a contract extension for an amount of money seen only by A-Rod. He will probably make over $20 million a year for at least seven years. That is a lot of money to tie up in any pitcher, and it is a huge risk. You bring up Carl Pavano, and while Pavano is not anywhere near the pitcher Santana is, what happened to him and many other talented pitchers should serve as a warning. Pitchers are the most injury prone players in baseball, and no matter how dominant or mediocre a pitcher is there is always the risk that his career will be derailed by injuries. I am not saying that investing all that money in Santana isn't worth it. It is a gamble, but one that will probably pay off, as Santana is the best pitcher in baseball and should be for the next five years. I think it will be worth it for the Yankees to make that gamble next off-season if Santana is a free agent. I just don't think it is worth giving up Hughes and Melky in order to make that gamble.
Pat: Yea...but then using that logic, you'd never sign pitchers (at least to long contracts). Pitchers are a risk. So is any player that you sign to a long deal. There is an inherent risk. But, I do agree, this is your good point, is it worth it for the Yankees to make the trade now instead of waiting till the off-season? This is where it gets more cloudy. This is why getting Santana now is the right move: You get him for another year, and with the Yankee team having some key pieces getting older and older, this next year could be the year to make a move in the postseason. Johan would help that push significantly. Also, you get him now, without other factors coming into play. Leave him alone for free agency, and many other teams can make lucrative offers to him. A huge bidding war could ensue or he could simply get a better offer from another team. Instead, the Yanks could grab him now and avoid all of that chaos.
Andrew: You said earlier that the reason that the Yankees have been going home early in recent years is their starting pitching, and that couldn't be more true. They simply haven't had guys coming out of the minors and contributing, and the guys that they were trading for and signing weren't getting it done. I think for Yankee fans, however, this is the year we have been waiting for. The Yankees finally have a good, young rotation that should not be overmatched come playoff time. Hughes, Kennedy and Joba have all succeeded in every level, including the majors (ok, so they didn't pitch enough games in the Bronx to know how good they'll be, but it does look promising). And out of the three, Hughes is probably the closest to a sure thing. I mean, we've been hearing about him for what seems like years. I think it would be worth it to at least give these three pitchers a year together to see what they can do. Also, you bring up that if the Yankees wait until the off-season, they will be involved in a bidding war. That is the Yankees strength and I think that it is a situation that they are very comfortable in. I don't expect them to lose a bidding war to anyone.
Pat: But like I said, Hughes has 13 starts, Kennedy has 3, and Joba has none. This is a big question mark. So you can understand why the front office is searching for some starting pitching. And you’re right, it does look promising, but many see Joba as just as big a prospect as Hughes, so you're giving up just one piece. You're giving up Hughes, who has the chance to be very good, for Johan Santana, who has proved he is outstanding. And he's still in his prime, unlike the Yankee’s signings of Roger Clemens (this past year) and Randy Johnson. Also, I wouldn't say that I expect them to win bidding wars, but yes, they are good at them. The problem is, it could open the door for many more teams which may be more attractive to Santana, or be able to offer him a better deal (more years, etc.). I personally think that this is tough. It would be nice to keep Hughes and Melky and just shell out a few more million for Santana. The negatives though, are missing him for this season, and also the risk of losing him to another team.
Andrew: But the negatives to trading him are losing a 22 year old potential ace who looked like he really hit his stride in September and October. This is a guy who almost pitched a no hitter in his second major league game! Another negative is losing Melky. I know it doesn't seem like a huge deal, as Melky is never going to be an All-Star, but the defense would suffer greatly with Matsui, with his bad knee and weak arm in left and Damon, also with a weak arm, in center. I think one of the biggest improvements this past year over recent years was that the Yankees actually threw guys out on the base paths. I'd hate to see them revert back to their previous form. Overall, while Santana is a great player and I would love the Yanks to get him, the cost of doing so and the risks are just too great.
Pat: I see you're thinking about the negatives, but I think you're just looking too hard for drawbacks. A downgrade in outfield defense is not as important as obtaining the best pitcher of this decade, who also, may I mention, is a lefty (which the Yankees lack if Andy Pettitte retires, which looks probable). Lefties are important at Yankee Stadium because they pitch hitters towards the larger part of the park (left center). Also, they of course match up better with lefty hitters. Matsui also is better than you're giving him credit for, he tracks down a lot of balls and has a very quick release. That being said, the defense will suffer as Melky has a cannon in center. But there are going to be drawbacks with any trade. And outfield defense, to me, is greatly outweighed by adding an established lefty ace to an inexperienced starting rotation. We've seen how important pitching is in past few postseasons. I hate to use Boston as an example, but look how they parted with two of their big prospects, Hanley Ramirez and Anibal Sanchez, in a trade for Josh Beckett. Those were two huge prospects, but Beckett has become the top of the rotation guy the Red Sox had been looking for since Pedro left. He's been dominant and was the key piece in their last World Series run. The risks are there, but they always are accepted as part of trades and free agency. In a perfect world, the Yankees would win this year without Johan, grab him in the off-season and keep Melky and Hughes. But the Yankees are paranoid about the Red Sox and Mets grabbing Santana. The last thing they want to see is Johan in Boston. Because of this, the risk of not obtaining him in free agency, and getting him a year sooner, I understand what the Yankees are thinking. I'm not sure they should pull the trigger right now. But if you look at it, if the Yankees were to make a deal, it is not a bad deal at all.
-Pat and Andrew
Anyone out there have an opinion? Leave a comment telling us what you’re thinking.
Andrew: This trade reminds me of something that the 2002-2006 Yankees would do. They have a good, young team with a lot of potential and a pitching staff filled with talented young starters. There is certainly not a hole in the rotation. Also, their outfield defense should be stellar as Melky and Abreu have above average arms in center and right. By trading for Santana, they would be going after the big name available at whatever cost instead of making the moves necessary to build a complete and winning ball team.
Pat: See, that's where I think you're overreacting. The flaw, at least last year and in the years past, has been a lack of an established, dominant ace (to go along with a poor bullpen). This team can keep a lot of that youth that you are right in saying is very promising, while trading away just two of them for the best pitcher of this decade. When you have the chance to grab Santana, you're going to have to give up something. Melky has probably somewhat reached his ceiling as a .290 hitter with a little pop and a good outfielder. Hughes has a lot of potential. But, in getting Santana, you're getting a lefty that's established himself as one of the most dominant arms in the league. And unlike Carl Pavano, he's pitched in the AL. There's might not be a hole in the rotation, but there are some serious question marks. Three of the five starters, Kennedy, Joba and Hughes, have started a combined 16 games at the big league level. Shoring this up with an established ace that will not only be valuable in the regular season but indispensable in the postseason, is more important than outfield defense
Andrew: Another thing to keep in mind, though, is that if the Yankees trade for Santana they will also be signing him to a contract extension for an amount of money seen only by A-Rod. He will probably make over $20 million a year for at least seven years. That is a lot of money to tie up in any pitcher, and it is a huge risk. You bring up Carl Pavano, and while Pavano is not anywhere near the pitcher Santana is, what happened to him and many other talented pitchers should serve as a warning. Pitchers are the most injury prone players in baseball, and no matter how dominant or mediocre a pitcher is there is always the risk that his career will be derailed by injuries. I am not saying that investing all that money in Santana isn't worth it. It is a gamble, but one that will probably pay off, as Santana is the best pitcher in baseball and should be for the next five years. I think it will be worth it for the Yankees to make that gamble next off-season if Santana is a free agent. I just don't think it is worth giving up Hughes and Melky in order to make that gamble.
Pat: Yea...but then using that logic, you'd never sign pitchers (at least to long contracts). Pitchers are a risk. So is any player that you sign to a long deal. There is an inherent risk. But, I do agree, this is your good point, is it worth it for the Yankees to make the trade now instead of waiting till the off-season? This is where it gets more cloudy. This is why getting Santana now is the right move: You get him for another year, and with the Yankee team having some key pieces getting older and older, this next year could be the year to make a move in the postseason. Johan would help that push significantly. Also, you get him now, without other factors coming into play. Leave him alone for free agency, and many other teams can make lucrative offers to him. A huge bidding war could ensue or he could simply get a better offer from another team. Instead, the Yanks could grab him now and avoid all of that chaos.
Andrew: You said earlier that the reason that the Yankees have been going home early in recent years is their starting pitching, and that couldn't be more true. They simply haven't had guys coming out of the minors and contributing, and the guys that they were trading for and signing weren't getting it done. I think for Yankee fans, however, this is the year we have been waiting for. The Yankees finally have a good, young rotation that should not be overmatched come playoff time. Hughes, Kennedy and Joba have all succeeded in every level, including the majors (ok, so they didn't pitch enough games in the Bronx to know how good they'll be, but it does look promising). And out of the three, Hughes is probably the closest to a sure thing. I mean, we've been hearing about him for what seems like years. I think it would be worth it to at least give these three pitchers a year together to see what they can do. Also, you bring up that if the Yankees wait until the off-season, they will be involved in a bidding war. That is the Yankees strength and I think that it is a situation that they are very comfortable in. I don't expect them to lose a bidding war to anyone.
Pat: But like I said, Hughes has 13 starts, Kennedy has 3, and Joba has none. This is a big question mark. So you can understand why the front office is searching for some starting pitching. And you’re right, it does look promising, but many see Joba as just as big a prospect as Hughes, so you're giving up just one piece. You're giving up Hughes, who has the chance to be very good, for Johan Santana, who has proved he is outstanding. And he's still in his prime, unlike the Yankee’s signings of Roger Clemens (this past year) and Randy Johnson. Also, I wouldn't say that I expect them to win bidding wars, but yes, they are good at them. The problem is, it could open the door for many more teams which may be more attractive to Santana, or be able to offer him a better deal (more years, etc.). I personally think that this is tough. It would be nice to keep Hughes and Melky and just shell out a few more million for Santana. The negatives though, are missing him for this season, and also the risk of losing him to another team.
Andrew: But the negatives to trading him are losing a 22 year old potential ace who looked like he really hit his stride in September and October. This is a guy who almost pitched a no hitter in his second major league game! Another negative is losing Melky. I know it doesn't seem like a huge deal, as Melky is never going to be an All-Star, but the defense would suffer greatly with Matsui, with his bad knee and weak arm in left and Damon, also with a weak arm, in center. I think one of the biggest improvements this past year over recent years was that the Yankees actually threw guys out on the base paths. I'd hate to see them revert back to their previous form. Overall, while Santana is a great player and I would love the Yanks to get him, the cost of doing so and the risks are just too great.
Pat: I see you're thinking about the negatives, but I think you're just looking too hard for drawbacks. A downgrade in outfield defense is not as important as obtaining the best pitcher of this decade, who also, may I mention, is a lefty (which the Yankees lack if Andy Pettitte retires, which looks probable). Lefties are important at Yankee Stadium because they pitch hitters towards the larger part of the park (left center). Also, they of course match up better with lefty hitters. Matsui also is better than you're giving him credit for, he tracks down a lot of balls and has a very quick release. That being said, the defense will suffer as Melky has a cannon in center. But there are going to be drawbacks with any trade. And outfield defense, to me, is greatly outweighed by adding an established lefty ace to an inexperienced starting rotation. We've seen how important pitching is in past few postseasons. I hate to use Boston as an example, but look how they parted with two of their big prospects, Hanley Ramirez and Anibal Sanchez, in a trade for Josh Beckett. Those were two huge prospects, but Beckett has become the top of the rotation guy the Red Sox had been looking for since Pedro left. He's been dominant and was the key piece in their last World Series run. The risks are there, but they always are accepted as part of trades and free agency. In a perfect world, the Yankees would win this year without Johan, grab him in the off-season and keep Melky and Hughes. But the Yankees are paranoid about the Red Sox and Mets grabbing Santana. The last thing they want to see is Johan in Boston. Because of this, the risk of not obtaining him in free agency, and getting him a year sooner, I understand what the Yankees are thinking. I'm not sure they should pull the trigger right now. But if you look at it, if the Yankees were to make a deal, it is not a bad deal at all.
-Pat and Andrew
Anyone out there have an opinion? Leave a comment telling us what you’re thinking.
Image Credits: http://www.1800beisbol.com/archives/JohanSantana.bmp
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