The Final Four teams in the NCAA tournament have been decided and a plethora of history remains among the contenders with North Carolina (Michael Jordan, Phil Ford, Dean Smith), Kansas (Wilt Chamberlain, Danny Manning, Phog Allen), UCLA (Lew Alcindor, Bill Walton, John Wooden) and Memphis (Keith Lee, Anfernee Hardaway, William Bedford) (William Bedford???). All four teams are home practicing before they arrive in beautiful, little, quaint San Antonio, Texas for the games to begin.
Wait, did I just type little and quaint? What on earth was I talking about? Did you realize that San Antonio is the 7th most populous city in the United States? Seventh!!! Its population of 1,296,682 makes it larger than such bustling megalopolises as Dallas (9th - 1,213,825), Detroit (11th - 871,121 and dropping), San Francisco (14th - 744,041), Baltimore (19th - 631,366), Boston (22nd - 590,763), Seattle (23rd - 582,454), Washington, D.C. (24th - 581,530), Denver (26th - 557,917), Atlanta (35th - 470,688), Miami (45th - 386,417) and Minneapolis (48th - 372,811). Atlanta 35th? San Francisco 14th? San Antonio 7th? When did this happen?
Since I am currently looking at the Census, I spot a few other interesting numbers. San Jose, California is the tenth largest city in the country (in terms of population), Jacksonville, Florida is 12th (primarily because it is so large in area), Columbus, Ohio is 15th (must be all of the Ohio State students/alums), Louisville, Kentucky is 27th (bigger than Atlanta?), Albuquerque, New Mexico is 33rd, New Orleans is now 38th (thanks to the population drop after Katrina), Honolulu, Hawaii is 47th and Arlington, Texas is 50th. Arlington is scary at 50th since Dallas is 9th and Ft. Worth is 18th. That is a lot of people in one single (non-New York City) area.
So for those of you expecting a nice little town to visit for this tourney, San Antonio may be all that you are expecting, and much more.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Friday, March 28, 2008
Are a Zebra's Stripes Black or White?
This year has been particularly bad for referees in the NCAA. (Does anybody remember the Georgetown game?) Now, of course, referees that are incredibly good at their craft do exist, while some, shall we say, fall a little short. But that's OK, because only the best crews, or at least the best officials, will be chosen for the NCAA tournament, right?
Now granted, that query was rhetorical, but perhaps it needed to be answered in the affirmative, since that could attempt to make us all feel better about this tournament and perhaps make us forget about what we have been seeing these last couple of weekends. It goes back to the old adage, "who are you going to believe, me or your lying eyes". And our eyes seem to be more trustworthy than the men in the striped shirts this year.
Now it would be too easy to go to the UCLA - Texas A & M finish, as that was simply a missed call. Period. If you don't know what I am writing about, then you didn't see the game.
However, the problem goes much deeper than missed calls or referees that swallow their whistles at the end of games. Some referees are simply influencing the entire tempo and feel of the game. Take last night's Louisville - Tennessee game for example. Both teams guard tough, get up-and-down the court at breakneck speed and rely on athleticism to force teams into shaky passes, bad decisions and tentative play which can all lead to easy baskets. A game that everyone knows is going to be frantic and involve a little bit of tough play both on and off the ball. The game starts and next thing you know, Wayne Chism has 2 fouls a few minutes in. He goes to the bench for (what we thought would be) the rest of the half. More importantly, Tennessee not only loses an athletic inside player and defensive presence, but they also lose their aggressiveness. This occurred especially since a couple of the early fouls were dubious at best. In the second half, Louisville had two plays, at least one by Earl Clark, where great passing led to an inevitable dunk. A Tennessee defender was in the area during each of these plays, but not close enough to make a defensive stop. Each time the defender backed off so as not to incur a foul and give Louisville a three point play, only to actually be called with the ever present "anticipation foul" by the official.
Now, I am not saying that Louisville didn't deserve to win, or that Tennessee was robbed, since Louisville certainly took the play to Tennessee the entire game. I am just saying that the officials did not let the athletic match up develop that I, like most of America, was expecting.
Another example is how Roy Hibbert fouled out of Georgetown's second round game against Davidson, with 3 offensive fouls. This even though Hibbert is not your typical drive to the rim at all costs guard who becomes prone to charging defenders.
Another weird play occurred in the UCLA - Western Kentucky game last night. Western Kentucky was in the middle of its second half run when Courtney Lee took the ball on the left wing and drove into the left elbow when he inexplicably stopped. Realizing he was about to travel, he lofted a floater toward the half court line for Tyrone Brazelton, which was intercepted by Darren Collison and taken the other way for two easy points. Why did Lee, who had a tremendous tournament by the way, just suddenly stop for no reason, leading to a turnover. The answer was right before our ears. Someone in that stadium blew a whistle. I heard it through the television, and lest it just be that whomever blew their whistle was close to a crowd mic, the announcers heard it and even commented on the whistle. Nothing from the officials. Nothing whatsoever.
This tournament is replete with call after call after non-call that are affecting teams, their style of play and the ending of the games themselves.
As we wind down to 8, then eventually 4 and 2 very good teams, most of which are going to be fairly evenly matched with a lot of athletes, the NCAA needs to insure that the games are decided by those athletes, and not by the less athletic threesome on the court in stripes.
Now granted, that query was rhetorical, but perhaps it needed to be answered in the affirmative, since that could attempt to make us all feel better about this tournament and perhaps make us forget about what we have been seeing these last couple of weekends. It goes back to the old adage, "who are you going to believe, me or your lying eyes". And our eyes seem to be more trustworthy than the men in the striped shirts this year.
Now it would be too easy to go to the UCLA - Texas A & M finish, as that was simply a missed call. Period. If you don't know what I am writing about, then you didn't see the game.
However, the problem goes much deeper than missed calls or referees that swallow their whistles at the end of games. Some referees are simply influencing the entire tempo and feel of the game. Take last night's Louisville - Tennessee game for example. Both teams guard tough, get up-and-down the court at breakneck speed and rely on athleticism to force teams into shaky passes, bad decisions and tentative play which can all lead to easy baskets. A game that everyone knows is going to be frantic and involve a little bit of tough play both on and off the ball. The game starts and next thing you know, Wayne Chism has 2 fouls a few minutes in. He goes to the bench for (what we thought would be) the rest of the half. More importantly, Tennessee not only loses an athletic inside player and defensive presence, but they also lose their aggressiveness. This occurred especially since a couple of the early fouls were dubious at best. In the second half, Louisville had two plays, at least one by Earl Clark, where great passing led to an inevitable dunk. A Tennessee defender was in the area during each of these plays, but not close enough to make a defensive stop. Each time the defender backed off so as not to incur a foul and give Louisville a three point play, only to actually be called with the ever present "anticipation foul" by the official.
Now, I am not saying that Louisville didn't deserve to win, or that Tennessee was robbed, since Louisville certainly took the play to Tennessee the entire game. I am just saying that the officials did not let the athletic match up develop that I, like most of America, was expecting.
Another example is how Roy Hibbert fouled out of Georgetown's second round game against Davidson, with 3 offensive fouls. This even though Hibbert is not your typical drive to the rim at all costs guard who becomes prone to charging defenders.
Another weird play occurred in the UCLA - Western Kentucky game last night. Western Kentucky was in the middle of its second half run when Courtney Lee took the ball on the left wing and drove into the left elbow when he inexplicably stopped. Realizing he was about to travel, he lofted a floater toward the half court line for Tyrone Brazelton, which was intercepted by Darren Collison and taken the other way for two easy points. Why did Lee, who had a tremendous tournament by the way, just suddenly stop for no reason, leading to a turnover. The answer was right before our ears. Someone in that stadium blew a whistle. I heard it through the television, and lest it just be that whomever blew their whistle was close to a crowd mic, the announcers heard it and even commented on the whistle. Nothing from the officials. Nothing whatsoever.
This tournament is replete with call after call after non-call that are affecting teams, their style of play and the ending of the games themselves.
As we wind down to 8, then eventually 4 and 2 very good teams, most of which are going to be fairly evenly matched with a lot of athletes, the NCAA needs to insure that the games are decided by those athletes, and not by the less athletic threesome on the court in stripes.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Talent Wasted
A couple of small news items caught my eye over the last two days. One was funny, both were sad, and two things came immediately to mind. First, I am old. Really old. I am having to come to grips with that. Two, how did such immense talent get essentially wasted in the bodies of Derrick Coleman and Chris Webber? After all, both were heavily recruited prep stars in the Detroit area, both were #1 overall picks in their respective drafts, and both could be considered incredible disappointments.
The funny story can be found here. That's right, Derrick Coleman became the first Pro athlete to succumb to an injury during the television show Pros vs. Joes. Oh, how the mighty have fallen.
I was a sophomore at Syracuse when DC arrived on campus with as much fanfare as any recruit that we had seen in recent memory. At 6'10", he could do it all! Absolutely one of Syracuse's most important recruits. From there, his career could be described as questionable. And I am not sure if that is a compliment or an insult. He simply didn't care. Ever! Just sleptwalked for seasons at time. Despite it all, DC lead Syracuse to the NCAA Championship game as a freshman, was NBA Rookie of the Year 1991, an All-Star in 1994, and averaged a double-double 5 times during his 15 year career. Despite all of that, he was considered one the the biggest busts in NBA history. Just a shame.
Chris Webber was a different sort of sad. It was noted yesterday that C-Webb retired after a 15 year NBA career that included the 1994 NBA Rookie of the Year award and 5 All-Star appearances. He had a respectable career, but certainly not on par with the hype and expectation of the 1991 High School Player of the Year and the leader of the most highly publicized recruiting class of all time, The Fab Five.
When Chris Webber arrived at the University of Michigan, he entered with a group of freshmen (Jalen Rose, Juwan Howard, Jimmy King and Ray Jackson) that was at the forefront of a cultural revolution in the sport. Fashion, trash talking, bravado, and arrogance would evolve into something that most purists thought barely resembled basketball. Forget the showtime Lakers or the 1990/1991 UNLV Rebels, the Michigan Wolverines' Fab Five were the next coming!
The funny story can be found here. That's right, Derrick Coleman became the first Pro athlete to succumb to an injury during the television show Pros vs. Joes. Oh, how the mighty have fallen.
I was a sophomore at Syracuse when DC arrived on campus with as much fanfare as any recruit that we had seen in recent memory. At 6'10", he could do it all! Absolutely one of Syracuse's most important recruits. From there, his career could be described as questionable. And I am not sure if that is a compliment or an insult. He simply didn't care. Ever! Just sleptwalked for seasons at time. Despite it all, DC lead Syracuse to the NCAA Championship game as a freshman, was NBA Rookie of the Year 1991, an All-Star in 1994, and averaged a double-double 5 times during his 15 year career. Despite all of that, he was considered one the the biggest busts in NBA history. Just a shame.
Chris Webber was a different sort of sad. It was noted yesterday that C-Webb retired after a 15 year NBA career that included the 1994 NBA Rookie of the Year award and 5 All-Star appearances. He had a respectable career, but certainly not on par with the hype and expectation of the 1991 High School Player of the Year and the leader of the most highly publicized recruiting class of all time, The Fab Five.
When Chris Webber arrived at the University of Michigan, he entered with a group of freshmen (Jalen Rose, Juwan Howard, Jimmy King and Ray Jackson) that was at the forefront of a cultural revolution in the sport. Fashion, trash talking, bravado, and arrogance would evolve into something that most purists thought barely resembled basketball. Forget the showtime Lakers or the 1990/1991 UNLV Rebels, the Michigan Wolverines' Fab Five were the next coming!
Forget the fact that they went to back to back NCAA national championship games as freshmen and sophomores, just look at the difference in the shorts players are wearing pre-1991 and what the Michigan players (specifically Jalen Rose, #5) were wearing as freshmen. Evolution from short shorts to what we see today is directly attributable to the Fab Five and their adoration of Michael Jordan.
It's a shame that both pro careers ended with so little appreciation given the promise of both throughout their high school and college careers. It just makes me sad.
Oh, and read the book Fab Five by Mitch Album. It is phenomenal.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Wh, What's Your Fantasy
My fantasy baseball draft was a couple of weekends ago. Now, ordinarily I would never want to bore our readers with my tremendously insightful logic about who I picked in what round and why. However, since the fantasy draft took place during a Saturday night I was unable to attend my live draft. That makes it much more entertaining for me to completely fabricate all of the reasons for my draft. It is this type of insightful analysis that should carry you to your fantasy baseball season championship.
The ground rules for our league: 12 teams; serpentine draft; 6 x 6 rotisserie scoring (average, HRs, RBIs, SBs, OPS, W, K, S, Holds, ERA, WHIP); 24 rounds; Standard offensive starters with 9 pitchers (4 SP, 4RP, 1P). I received the 12th pick in the draft. Onward to my draft.
The obvious picks of ARod (1st), Pujols (6) and Johan Santana (10th) were already gone, as were David Wright (2nd), Hanley Ramirez (3rd), Ryan Braun (4th), Jose Reyes (5th), Alfonso Soriano (7th), Chase Utley (8th) and Matt Holliday (9th). Due to Braun, Soriano, Wright and Utley all being over selected, I was going to be left with 2 of my third, fifth and sixth ranked selections. When the pick in front of me selected Miguel Cabrera (my preseason number 3 ranked player ... and rising), I ended up with Ryan Howard in my lap. Since I also had the wrap-around pick to start he second round, I also selected Carl Crawford. So far so good in this draft.
A note on my rankings. I pre-selected my top 60 (5 rounds approximately), but I did so by legitimately placing the top 20, then overstuffing the next 10-15 picks with pitchers to make sure I received a ton of good pitchers, then rounding out the last set with players from various positions. This should enable me to receive more than 5 rounds worth of my selections before yahoo starts automatically dumping players onto my roster.
The second round sees a lot of familiar names, Ichiro, Fielder, Rollins and Peavy, and also Chris Young the outfielder, Carlos Beltran and Lance Berkman stretches. Some nice picks in the third round, Magglio Ordonez going 35 for example, but some more early stretches for position, Russell Martin, Mark Texeira and Chone Figgins. The draft allows Manny Ramirez (my 18th rated player) to fall to me at 36 [Ed. Note - Ramirez is on pace to score 162 and drive in 648 runs]. I also pick Brandon Webb (my 20th rated player) of Arizona with the 37th pick. So far I have average, power, speed with Crawford and the ability to score and drive in runs. Although only 1 pitcher, he is a perennial Cy Young candidate, and remember, I overstocked my rankings with pitchers.
Some nice players drafted in the 4th round, Sabathia, Alex Rios, Adam Dunn, Aramis Ramirez, and the first closer, Papelbon, but some real stretches also, like Troy Tulowizki and Brian Roberts, and some injury questions like Josh Beckett. The 5th round is more of the same, although I was a bit distraught to see Cole Hamels taken 3 spots in front of me, the only real pick that I was upset about in those two rounds. With the 60th and 61st picks, I get Carlos Zambrano and Roy Halladay. Can you believe it? Three pitchers, three Cy Young candidates.
A quarter of the way through my draft and my team looks like this (I am very pleased at this point, by the way):
C, 1B - Ryan Howard, 2B, 3B, SS, OF - Carl Crawford, OF, Manny Ramirez, OF, Util
SP - Brandon Webb, SP - Carlos Zambrano, SP - Roy Halladay, SP, RP, RP, RP, RP, P
The sixth and seventh round eliminate Justin Verlander, Carlos Pena, Roy Oswalt, Aaron Harang, Scott Kazmir, Joe Mauer and Gary Sheffield from the draft pool, but the likes of Adrian Gonzalez, Torii Hunter and Brian McCann are also taken. Once again, I am not displeased with the progression of these rounds. This leads to my selctions, in the seventh and eighth rounds respectively, of Felix Hernanzez and Ben Sheets. Hernandez has a ton of potential, and remember is still incredibly young, despite his experience. If Sheets can stay healthy, he is an absolute stud on the mound. More pitching for me.
Tim Lincecum, Ryan Zimmerman and Mariano Rivera are the most interesting names that are taken in the eighth and ninth rounds ahead of me, but Brett Myers and Chad Bilingsley are available when I pick. Brett Myers and Chad Billingsley are great because they count both as starters and relief pitchers in the yahoo leagues due to their appearances last year, although they will both be used as starters. Billingsley has had a very subpar spring training, but he has outstanding stuff. Looking forward to watching him pitch in the next few years. More importantly, I am through ten rounds without having yahoo assign me one single player.
Rounds 11 and 12 bring me Johnny Damon and Rickie Weeks. With Damon, he should score a ton of runs at the top of that lineup and have decent production [Ed. note - notice me talking myself into this pick]. Thank God defense isn't a criteria in fantasy sports. He might just have a weaker arm than Juan Pierre. Maybe. With Weeks, decent production from the 2B spot. I still hope that yahoo does me a bit better for this position. [Ed. Note - Foreshadowing].
Halfway through the draft my team looks like this (and I am still very much pleased):
C, 1B - Ryan Howard, 2B - Rcikie Weeks, 3B, SS, OF - Carl Crawford, OF, Manny Ramirez, OF - Johnny Damon, Util
SP - Brandon Webb, SP - Carlos Zambrano, SP - Roy Halladay, SP - Felix Hernandez, RP - Brett Myers, RP - Chad Billingsley, RP, RP, P - Ben Sheets
At this point I need a few position players (and yes, closers, I know this). Yahoo does not let me down with my next four picks being Matt Kemp of the Dodgers, Jarrod Saltalamacchia of the Rangers, Josh Fields of the White Sox and Jhonny Peralta of the Indians. Kemp has the capability of being a really nice fantasy player, as do Saltalamacchia and Fields. Unfortunately for me, Saltalamacchia and Fields will both most likely start the season in the minors. Peralta is a great pick because (a) he is a great fantasy pick in the 16th round; and (b) every team needs at least one player that cannot spell his own name. The next round brings my relief pitching in the form of B.J. Ryan and Pat Neshak. Neshak is an absolute beast in a league where holds are a scoring category. Great WHIP, great ERA, a ton of holds. He helps everywhere. They only players I was upset at missing during this quarter of the draft were Kosuke Fukudome (round 14 - mostly because of his name), Kevin Youkilis (round 15) and Hideki Okajima (round 17). I had Okajima and Neshak in my bullpen last year and they were amazing.
My team to this point (still pleased, but cognizant of holes to be filled):
C - Jarrod Saltalamachia, 1B - Ryan Howard, 2B - Rickie Weeks, 3B - Josh Fields, SS - Jhonny Peralta, OF - Carl Crawford, OF, Manny Ramirez, OF - Johnny Damon, Util - Matt Kemp
SP - Brandon Webb, SP - Carlos Zambrano, SP - Roy Halladay, SP - Felix Hernandez, RP - Brett Myers, RP - Chad Billingsley, RP - B.J. Ryan, RP - Pat Neshek, P - Ben Sheets
At this point I am just drafting to fill holes, as I have at least one player at each of my starting positions. Time to bring in another catcher, another middle infielder, some more runs scored, and not hurt my batting average. On to the last six rounds.
The 19th round brings the absolute steal of the draft. Placido Polanco, second baseman of the Tigers. IN THE 19TH ROUND. He hit .341 and scored 105 runs last year. He is hitting second in a lineup behind Granderson (when he returns), and in front of Cabrera, Ordonez AND Sheffield. Are you serious? I'll take this pick anytime.
My next picks are all position players as well. Next is Edwin Encarnacion, who provides me with insurance in case Fields starts the season in the minors. He hit .289 last year with 16 homers, 76 RBIs, 66 runs scored and 8 stolen bases. He is followed by Colby Rasmus (who?), Julio Lugo, Casey Kotchman, and Paul LoDuca. LoDuca helps because he will actually play and Saltalamacchia might not. Lugo is a shortsop, and you always need shortstops. Kotchman and Rasmus have already been cut for more pitching, including Schilling, who I immediately placed on the DL just in case he does come back, David Weathers (for saves) and Matt Guerrier for bullpen help.
After the draft, my team looks like this:
C - Jarrod Saltalamachia, 1B - Ryan Howard, 2B - Placido Polanco, 3B - Edwin Encarnacion, SS - Jhonny Peralta, OF - Carl Crawford, OF, Manny Ramirez, OF - Johnny Damon, Util - Matt Kemp, B - Rickie Weeks, B - Josh Fields, B - Julio Lugo B - Paul LoDuca, B - Colby Rasmus (since waived) and B - Casey Kotchman (since waived).
SP - Brandon Webb, SP - Carlos Zambrano, SP - Roy Halladay, SP - Felix Hernandez, RP - Brett Myers, RP - Chad Billingsley, RP - B.J. Ryan, RP - Pat Neshek, P - Ben Sheets
Take a look at the team again, but think of it as an actual lineup.
OF - Carl Crawford
2B - Placido Polanco
1B - Ryan Howard
OF - Manny Ramirez
DH - Matt Kemp
3B - Edwin Encarnacion
C - Jarrod Saltalamacchia
SS - Jhonny Peralta
OF - Johnny Damon
More importantly, check out the pitching rotation: Brandon Webb, Carlos Zambrano, Roy Halladay, Felix Hernandez, Ben Sheets, Brett Myers and Chad Billingsley with a bullpen consisting of B.J. Ryan, David Weathers, Pat Neshek and Matt Guerrier. A little short on saves, but other than that, completely solid. You couldn't find one team in the majors that would want to face this pitching staff.
The ground rules for our league: 12 teams; serpentine draft; 6 x 6 rotisserie scoring (average, HRs, RBIs, SBs, OPS, W, K, S, Holds, ERA, WHIP); 24 rounds; Standard offensive starters with 9 pitchers (4 SP, 4RP, 1P). I received the 12th pick in the draft. Onward to my draft.
The obvious picks of ARod (1st), Pujols (6) and Johan Santana (10th) were already gone, as were David Wright (2nd), Hanley Ramirez (3rd), Ryan Braun (4th), Jose Reyes (5th), Alfonso Soriano (7th), Chase Utley (8th) and Matt Holliday (9th). Due to Braun, Soriano, Wright and Utley all being over selected, I was going to be left with 2 of my third, fifth and sixth ranked selections. When the pick in front of me selected Miguel Cabrera (my preseason number 3 ranked player ... and rising), I ended up with Ryan Howard in my lap. Since I also had the wrap-around pick to start he second round, I also selected Carl Crawford. So far so good in this draft.
A note on my rankings. I pre-selected my top 60 (5 rounds approximately), but I did so by legitimately placing the top 20, then overstuffing the next 10-15 picks with pitchers to make sure I received a ton of good pitchers, then rounding out the last set with players from various positions. This should enable me to receive more than 5 rounds worth of my selections before yahoo starts automatically dumping players onto my roster.
The second round sees a lot of familiar names, Ichiro, Fielder, Rollins and Peavy, and also Chris Young the outfielder, Carlos Beltran and Lance Berkman stretches. Some nice picks in the third round, Magglio Ordonez going 35 for example, but some more early stretches for position, Russell Martin, Mark Texeira and Chone Figgins. The draft allows Manny Ramirez (my 18th rated player) to fall to me at 36 [Ed. Note - Ramirez is on pace to score 162 and drive in 648 runs]. I also pick Brandon Webb (my 20th rated player) of Arizona with the 37th pick. So far I have average, power, speed with Crawford and the ability to score and drive in runs. Although only 1 pitcher, he is a perennial Cy Young candidate, and remember, I overstocked my rankings with pitchers.
Some nice players drafted in the 4th round, Sabathia, Alex Rios, Adam Dunn, Aramis Ramirez, and the first closer, Papelbon, but some real stretches also, like Troy Tulowizki and Brian Roberts, and some injury questions like Josh Beckett. The 5th round is more of the same, although I was a bit distraught to see Cole Hamels taken 3 spots in front of me, the only real pick that I was upset about in those two rounds. With the 60th and 61st picks, I get Carlos Zambrano and Roy Halladay. Can you believe it? Three pitchers, three Cy Young candidates.
A quarter of the way through my draft and my team looks like this (I am very pleased at this point, by the way):
C, 1B - Ryan Howard, 2B, 3B, SS, OF - Carl Crawford, OF, Manny Ramirez, OF, Util
SP - Brandon Webb, SP - Carlos Zambrano, SP - Roy Halladay, SP, RP, RP, RP, RP, P
The sixth and seventh round eliminate Justin Verlander, Carlos Pena, Roy Oswalt, Aaron Harang, Scott Kazmir, Joe Mauer and Gary Sheffield from the draft pool, but the likes of Adrian Gonzalez, Torii Hunter and Brian McCann are also taken. Once again, I am not displeased with the progression of these rounds. This leads to my selctions, in the seventh and eighth rounds respectively, of Felix Hernanzez and Ben Sheets. Hernandez has a ton of potential, and remember is still incredibly young, despite his experience. If Sheets can stay healthy, he is an absolute stud on the mound. More pitching for me.
Tim Lincecum, Ryan Zimmerman and Mariano Rivera are the most interesting names that are taken in the eighth and ninth rounds ahead of me, but Brett Myers and Chad Bilingsley are available when I pick. Brett Myers and Chad Billingsley are great because they count both as starters and relief pitchers in the yahoo leagues due to their appearances last year, although they will both be used as starters. Billingsley has had a very subpar spring training, but he has outstanding stuff. Looking forward to watching him pitch in the next few years. More importantly, I am through ten rounds without having yahoo assign me one single player.
Rounds 11 and 12 bring me Johnny Damon and Rickie Weeks. With Damon, he should score a ton of runs at the top of that lineup and have decent production [Ed. note - notice me talking myself into this pick]. Thank God defense isn't a criteria in fantasy sports. He might just have a weaker arm than Juan Pierre. Maybe. With Weeks, decent production from the 2B spot. I still hope that yahoo does me a bit better for this position. [Ed. Note - Foreshadowing].
Halfway through the draft my team looks like this (and I am still very much pleased):
C, 1B - Ryan Howard, 2B - Rcikie Weeks, 3B, SS, OF - Carl Crawford, OF, Manny Ramirez, OF - Johnny Damon, Util
SP - Brandon Webb, SP - Carlos Zambrano, SP - Roy Halladay, SP - Felix Hernandez, RP - Brett Myers, RP - Chad Billingsley, RP, RP, P - Ben Sheets
At this point I need a few position players (and yes, closers, I know this). Yahoo does not let me down with my next four picks being Matt Kemp of the Dodgers, Jarrod Saltalamacchia of the Rangers, Josh Fields of the White Sox and Jhonny Peralta of the Indians. Kemp has the capability of being a really nice fantasy player, as do Saltalamacchia and Fields. Unfortunately for me, Saltalamacchia and Fields will both most likely start the season in the minors. Peralta is a great pick because (a) he is a great fantasy pick in the 16th round; and (b) every team needs at least one player that cannot spell his own name. The next round brings my relief pitching in the form of B.J. Ryan and Pat Neshak. Neshak is an absolute beast in a league where holds are a scoring category. Great WHIP, great ERA, a ton of holds. He helps everywhere. They only players I was upset at missing during this quarter of the draft were Kosuke Fukudome (round 14 - mostly because of his name), Kevin Youkilis (round 15) and Hideki Okajima (round 17). I had Okajima and Neshak in my bullpen last year and they were amazing.
My team to this point (still pleased, but cognizant of holes to be filled):
C - Jarrod Saltalamachia, 1B - Ryan Howard, 2B - Rickie Weeks, 3B - Josh Fields, SS - Jhonny Peralta, OF - Carl Crawford, OF, Manny Ramirez, OF - Johnny Damon, Util - Matt Kemp
SP - Brandon Webb, SP - Carlos Zambrano, SP - Roy Halladay, SP - Felix Hernandez, RP - Brett Myers, RP - Chad Billingsley, RP - B.J. Ryan, RP - Pat Neshek, P - Ben Sheets
At this point I am just drafting to fill holes, as I have at least one player at each of my starting positions. Time to bring in another catcher, another middle infielder, some more runs scored, and not hurt my batting average. On to the last six rounds.
The 19th round brings the absolute steal of the draft. Placido Polanco, second baseman of the Tigers. IN THE 19TH ROUND. He hit .341 and scored 105 runs last year. He is hitting second in a lineup behind Granderson (when he returns), and in front of Cabrera, Ordonez AND Sheffield. Are you serious? I'll take this pick anytime.
My next picks are all position players as well. Next is Edwin Encarnacion, who provides me with insurance in case Fields starts the season in the minors. He hit .289 last year with 16 homers, 76 RBIs, 66 runs scored and 8 stolen bases. He is followed by Colby Rasmus (who?), Julio Lugo, Casey Kotchman, and Paul LoDuca. LoDuca helps because he will actually play and Saltalamacchia might not. Lugo is a shortsop, and you always need shortstops. Kotchman and Rasmus have already been cut for more pitching, including Schilling, who I immediately placed on the DL just in case he does come back, David Weathers (for saves) and Matt Guerrier for bullpen help.
After the draft, my team looks like this:
C - Jarrod Saltalamachia, 1B - Ryan Howard, 2B - Placido Polanco, 3B - Edwin Encarnacion, SS - Jhonny Peralta, OF - Carl Crawford, OF, Manny Ramirez, OF - Johnny Damon, Util - Matt Kemp, B - Rickie Weeks, B - Josh Fields, B - Julio Lugo B - Paul LoDuca, B - Colby Rasmus (since waived) and B - Casey Kotchman (since waived).
SP - Brandon Webb, SP - Carlos Zambrano, SP - Roy Halladay, SP - Felix Hernandez, RP - Brett Myers, RP - Chad Billingsley, RP - B.J. Ryan, RP - Pat Neshek, P - Ben Sheets
Take a look at the team again, but think of it as an actual lineup.
OF - Carl Crawford
2B - Placido Polanco
1B - Ryan Howard
OF - Manny Ramirez
DH - Matt Kemp
3B - Edwin Encarnacion
C - Jarrod Saltalamacchia
SS - Jhonny Peralta
OF - Johnny Damon
More importantly, check out the pitching rotation: Brandon Webb, Carlos Zambrano, Roy Halladay, Felix Hernandez, Ben Sheets, Brett Myers and Chad Billingsley with a bullpen consisting of B.J. Ryan, David Weathers, Pat Neshek and Matt Guerrier. A little short on saves, but other than that, completely solid. You couldn't find one team in the majors that would want to face this pitching staff.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Heroes of March Madness
It has been a very exciting first two rounds of the NCCA Tournament this year. Some players, however, have made a much more lasting mark on the tournament than others. Unlike some conferences, the Big East for example (which just simply has an 11 man All Big East first team), I will select the best players from the first two rounds of the tourney as if I was selecting a basketball team; 2 bigs (center or power forward unimportant), 2 wing players (small forward or off guard unimportant) and 1 point guard. Since North Carolina and Kansas have been so balanced, neither of those teams placed anyone on this list, even though their players are collectively playing great. The players:
C - Kevin Love, UCLA
Love started the tourney with 20 points, 9 rebounds and 4 blocked shots against Mississppi Valley State, but quickly showed that was just a warm up. In the second round against Texas A & M, Love had 19 points, 11 rebounds and 7, yes 7, blocked shots. Included in those 19 points were two big shots, one with 3:20 remaining that tied the game at 45 and the other with 1:37 remaining that gave UCLA a 47-45 point lead. Oh, and did I mention he now has 11 blocks for the tournament?
Honorable mention: Robin Lopez of Stanford, who is averaging 16 points, 6.5 rebounds and has 8 total blocks.
F - Brook Lopez, Stanford
Brook Lopez only had 4 points in the first round route of Cornell, but came back strong with a 30 point performance against Marquette, all of which were incredibly important in Stanford's one point overtime victory over the Golden Eagles, even though coach Trent Johnson was thrown out of the game in the first half for receiving two technical fouls. Lopez had 8 of his teams 11 points in overtime, and even assisted on a three pointer by Mitch Johnson. There is no way Stanford comes close to beating Marquette without Brook Lopez.
Honorable mention: Joe Alexander of West Virginia, who not only averages 18 points and 9.5 rebounds in this tournament, but is the absolute focal point of the Mountaineers offense and Michael Beasley who scored 46 points and grabbed 24 rebounds in Kansas State's two games, a victory over USC and the defeat at the hands of Wisconsin.
F - Courtney Lee, Western Kentucky
Lee, after scoring 15 points and grabbing 9 rebounds against Drake in the first round, exploded for 29 points and 7 rebounds in helping Western Kentucky earn its Sweet Sixteen birth over San Diego.
Honorable mention: Joe Crawford of Kentucky because of his 35 points in Kentucky's loss to Marquette, Gyno Pomare of San Diego for his 21 point average against UConn and Western Kentucky in this tournament, as well as his name (even though it is pronounced Gino).
PG - Scottie Reynolds, Villanova
Reynolds is averaging 23 points per game for the Wildcats, as they cruised into the Sweet 16 with relatively easy victories over Clemson and Siena. He has done this while averaging 36 minutes per tournament game. He has emerged as the one absolute Big East star in this tournament (with Alexander), while the other highly publicized members (Roy Hibbert for example) of that vaunted conference have had less than stellar tournaments. Several point guards have had amazing performances, but none have played better than Reynolds.
Honorable mention: Tyrone Brazelton of Western Kentucky, particularly for his 33 point performance against Drake in the first round, Joe Mazzulla, for his 13 point, 11 rebound and 8 assist performance against Duke from off the bench, and Jack McClinton, Miami, 38 points in the first round and 18 critical points to make the Texas game interesting in round 2.
SG - Stephen Curry, Davidson
Hopefully I shouldn't have to justify this pick, but I will say that he has scored more points in the second halves of the two games, 55, than any player has scored in the entire tournament. He followed his 40 point performance in the win over Gonzaga with a 30 point performance in the come from way behind victory over Georgetown and its vaunted, nation leading, defense. There should be absolutely no debate that Curry is the MOP of this tournament to date.
Honorable Mention: Jerel McNeal of Marquette, who scored 50 points in the two games against Kentucky and Stanford.
C - Kevin Love, UCLA
Love started the tourney with 20 points, 9 rebounds and 4 blocked shots against Mississppi Valley State, but quickly showed that was just a warm up. In the second round against Texas A & M, Love had 19 points, 11 rebounds and 7, yes 7, blocked shots. Included in those 19 points were two big shots, one with 3:20 remaining that tied the game at 45 and the other with 1:37 remaining that gave UCLA a 47-45 point lead. Oh, and did I mention he now has 11 blocks for the tournament?
Honorable mention: Robin Lopez of Stanford, who is averaging 16 points, 6.5 rebounds and has 8 total blocks.
F - Brook Lopez, Stanford
Brook Lopez only had 4 points in the first round route of Cornell, but came back strong with a 30 point performance against Marquette, all of which were incredibly important in Stanford's one point overtime victory over the Golden Eagles, even though coach Trent Johnson was thrown out of the game in the first half for receiving two technical fouls. Lopez had 8 of his teams 11 points in overtime, and even assisted on a three pointer by Mitch Johnson. There is no way Stanford comes close to beating Marquette without Brook Lopez.
Honorable mention: Joe Alexander of West Virginia, who not only averages 18 points and 9.5 rebounds in this tournament, but is the absolute focal point of the Mountaineers offense and Michael Beasley who scored 46 points and grabbed 24 rebounds in Kansas State's two games, a victory over USC and the defeat at the hands of Wisconsin.
F - Courtney Lee, Western Kentucky
Lee, after scoring 15 points and grabbing 9 rebounds against Drake in the first round, exploded for 29 points and 7 rebounds in helping Western Kentucky earn its Sweet Sixteen birth over San Diego.
Honorable mention: Joe Crawford of Kentucky because of his 35 points in Kentucky's loss to Marquette, Gyno Pomare of San Diego for his 21 point average against UConn and Western Kentucky in this tournament, as well as his name (even though it is pronounced Gino).
PG - Scottie Reynolds, Villanova
Reynolds is averaging 23 points per game for the Wildcats, as they cruised into the Sweet 16 with relatively easy victories over Clemson and Siena. He has done this while averaging 36 minutes per tournament game. He has emerged as the one absolute Big East star in this tournament (with Alexander), while the other highly publicized members (Roy Hibbert for example) of that vaunted conference have had less than stellar tournaments. Several point guards have had amazing performances, but none have played better than Reynolds.
Honorable mention: Tyrone Brazelton of Western Kentucky, particularly for his 33 point performance against Drake in the first round, Joe Mazzulla, for his 13 point, 11 rebound and 8 assist performance against Duke from off the bench, and Jack McClinton, Miami, 38 points in the first round and 18 critical points to make the Texas game interesting in round 2.
SG - Stephen Curry, Davidson
Hopefully I shouldn't have to justify this pick, but I will say that he has scored more points in the second halves of the two games, 55, than any player has scored in the entire tournament. He followed his 40 point performance in the win over Gonzaga with a 30 point performance in the come from way behind victory over Georgetown and its vaunted, nation leading, defense. There should be absolutely no debate that Curry is the MOP of this tournament to date.
Honorable Mention: Jerel McNeal of Marquette, who scored 50 points in the two games against Kentucky and Stanford.
Friday, March 21, 2008
That Cat Can Ball
So we have had a couple of absolutely phenomenal performances today in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, none more so than that of Davidson sophomore Stephen Curry. This should come as no surprise to basketball fans, as Curry burst onto the scene in last year's NCAA Tournament, scoring 30 against Maryland. This year, he averaged 25.1 points per game, good for fifth in the nation.
In today's game against 7th seeded Gonzaga, Curry was an absolute monster. He scored 40 points (30 IN THE SECOND HALF) on 14-23 shooting, including 8-11 from three point range. Lest we think he is simply an offensive juggernaut, Curry also had 5 steals on the defensive end. He did everything except take Gonzaga inside and make them pancakes. And he did this all without the help of any "fruity picks". I just hope that Gonzaga brought their peoples with them, even though they didn't get embarrassed.
Miami's Jack McClinton, Western Kentucky's Tyrone Brazelton and Drake's Jonathan Cox had monster outings, but Stephen Curry, you are the clutch player of the early games.
In today's game against 7th seeded Gonzaga, Curry was an absolute monster. He scored 40 points (30 IN THE SECOND HALF) on 14-23 shooting, including 8-11 from three point range. Lest we think he is simply an offensive juggernaut, Curry also had 5 steals on the defensive end. He did everything except take Gonzaga inside and make them pancakes. And he did this all without the help of any "fruity picks". I just hope that Gonzaga brought their peoples with them, even though they didn't get embarrassed.
Miami's Jack McClinton, Western Kentucky's Tyrone Brazelton and Drake's Jonathan Cox had monster outings, but Stephen Curry, you are the clutch player of the early games.
Let Them Play, Let Them Play
I like to think I know a lot about the sport of basketball. However, even I must admit that most actual college basketball coaches know much more about the sport than I. Even with all of the knowledge that these coaches possess, they sometimes forget the easiest adage in the world, one that goes all the way back to the 1977 classic Bad News Bears in Breaking Training: "Let Them Play!"
Last night, the Belmont Bruins were on the verge of a colossal upset of the number 2 seeded Duke Blue Devils. In fact, with under one minute to play the Bruins held a one point lead over Duke. What does Belmont Coach Rick Byrd do? He calls timeout. Belmont, with the lead, a big defensive stop, the ball and the momentum suddenly had to stop everything for Coach Byrd to design a play. The play apparently was to hold the ball until the last second of the shot clock, drive and throw up a wild "shot" toward the basket and hope for a miracle. Now I understand that wasn't the play called by Coach Byrd, but it might as well have been. The wild shot missed, and Gerald Henderson then went coast-to-coast absolutely unimpeded for the game winning layup. Belmont gets the ball back, rushes over half court and then calls timeout again. Needless to say, Belmont lost.
Now, before you start to defend the timeouts, since almost every coach would have done the same thing, let's look at some of the facts. This is Belmont's third trip to the NCAA tourney in the past 4 years, losing to UCLA in 2005, Georgetown in 2007 and now Duke in 2008. They are incredibly experienced in playing in the NCAA tournament. They start four juniors and a senior. The one great equalizer for the teams from smaller conferences is that they are often experienced and have played together as a team for several years. At some point in time you have to trust your experienced players. The entire game Belmont ran their offense the way they wanted and did not let Duke dictate the game. What made a possession with 50 seconds left any different? Play your game and take a good shot in the course of your offense. When a team relies on the stall and prayer offense (which inevitably always occurs), that team is then unbalanced on defense and a team can exploit them on a fast break the other way.
Coach Byrd, your players had the basketball opportunity of their lifetime. When your four returning senior starters come back next year, let them play their first round game using their talents and knowledge of the offense. Save the timeouts for times to stop the opponents' momentum, to give your players breathers or to correct problems that you observe from the sidelines. Calling the first timeout last night gave Duke the opportunity to set-up on defense, took the momentum away from your team, and also took the crowd out of the game. The second timeout gave Duke the opportunity to set-up their defense and, perhaps more importantly, gave your players time to think about how they just blew the opportunity to beat Duke. Keep them on the court, let them think only about beating their man, running the play, setting screens, etc. Do not give time for doubt to set in.
You noticed that Coach Kryzewski didn't call timeout down one with the ball in that same situation, right?
Last night, the Belmont Bruins were on the verge of a colossal upset of the number 2 seeded Duke Blue Devils. In fact, with under one minute to play the Bruins held a one point lead over Duke. What does Belmont Coach Rick Byrd do? He calls timeout. Belmont, with the lead, a big defensive stop, the ball and the momentum suddenly had to stop everything for Coach Byrd to design a play. The play apparently was to hold the ball until the last second of the shot clock, drive and throw up a wild "shot" toward the basket and hope for a miracle. Now I understand that wasn't the play called by Coach Byrd, but it might as well have been. The wild shot missed, and Gerald Henderson then went coast-to-coast absolutely unimpeded for the game winning layup. Belmont gets the ball back, rushes over half court and then calls timeout again. Needless to say, Belmont lost.
Now, before you start to defend the timeouts, since almost every coach would have done the same thing, let's look at some of the facts. This is Belmont's third trip to the NCAA tourney in the past 4 years, losing to UCLA in 2005, Georgetown in 2007 and now Duke in 2008. They are incredibly experienced in playing in the NCAA tournament. They start four juniors and a senior. The one great equalizer for the teams from smaller conferences is that they are often experienced and have played together as a team for several years. At some point in time you have to trust your experienced players. The entire game Belmont ran their offense the way they wanted and did not let Duke dictate the game. What made a possession with 50 seconds left any different? Play your game and take a good shot in the course of your offense. When a team relies on the stall and prayer offense (which inevitably always occurs), that team is then unbalanced on defense and a team can exploit them on a fast break the other way.
Coach Byrd, your players had the basketball opportunity of their lifetime. When your four returning senior starters come back next year, let them play their first round game using their talents and knowledge of the offense. Save the timeouts for times to stop the opponents' momentum, to give your players breathers or to correct problems that you observe from the sidelines. Calling the first timeout last night gave Duke the opportunity to set-up on defense, took the momentum away from your team, and also took the crowd out of the game. The second timeout gave Duke the opportunity to set-up their defense and, perhaps more importantly, gave your players time to think about how they just blew the opportunity to beat Duke. Keep them on the court, let them think only about beating their man, running the play, setting screens, etc. Do not give time for doubt to set in.
You noticed that Coach Kryzewski didn't call timeout down one with the ball in that same situation, right?
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Inevitable Rules of College Basketball
When predicting the NCAA tournament, prognosticators often look to two specific aspects of the game to determine which teams will win games in the tournament; guard play and free throws. These two key factors merged into one person during the Kentucky-Marquette game this afternoon: Wesley Matthews.
(As a quick aside, this is Kentucky and Marquette's tenth meeting in the NCAAs, the last time being Dwyane Wade's famous triple double in the 2003 Elite Eight to earn a berth in the Final Four. Now back to our regularly scheduled post.)
Matthews is a 6'5" junior guard, and is often the afterthought of the three guard lineup that Coach Tom Crean often uses, after stars Dominic James and Jerel McNeal. For most of today's game, Matthews struggled, going 2-10 from the field, including one miss from three point range. But when it counted, Matthews calmed his nerves and shot the ball extremely well.
HE WENT 8-8 FROM THE FREE THROW LINE IN THE LAST 31 SECONDS.
That's right, Matthews shot 8 free throws and hit all 8 in the last 31 seconds of the game. Every one of these free throws was critical to the victory, despite the 74-66 final score, as Marquette only held a 2 point lead with 24 seconds left. Matthews iced the game at the charity stripe, allowing the favored Eagles to advance to the second round to play the Stanford-Cornell winner. He finished the game with 13 points, including going 9-10 from the free throw line.
Congratulations to Matthews for his performance down the stretch. That was one well earned victory. You are the clutch player of the afternoon.
(As a quick aside, this is Kentucky and Marquette's tenth meeting in the NCAAs, the last time being Dwyane Wade's famous triple double in the 2003 Elite Eight to earn a berth in the Final Four. Now back to our regularly scheduled post.)
Matthews is a 6'5" junior guard, and is often the afterthought of the three guard lineup that Coach Tom Crean often uses, after stars Dominic James and Jerel McNeal. For most of today's game, Matthews struggled, going 2-10 from the field, including one miss from three point range. But when it counted, Matthews calmed his nerves and shot the ball extremely well.
HE WENT 8-8 FROM THE FREE THROW LINE IN THE LAST 31 SECONDS.
That's right, Matthews shot 8 free throws and hit all 8 in the last 31 seconds of the game. Every one of these free throws was critical to the victory, despite the 74-66 final score, as Marquette only held a 2 point lead with 24 seconds left. Matthews iced the game at the charity stripe, allowing the favored Eagles to advance to the second round to play the Stanford-Cornell winner. He finished the game with 13 points, including going 9-10 from the free throw line.
Congratulations to Matthews for his performance down the stretch. That was one well earned victory. You are the clutch player of the afternoon.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
An Urban College Experience
On February 29, March 1 and March 2, college baseball held the Urban Invitational Tournament, co-hosted by cross-town rivals USC and UCLA. The games were played at Dedeaux Field, Jackie Robinson Stadium and at the MLB Urban Youth Academy in Compton, California.
This all sounds great and noble, bringing baseball to the inner cities where participation is rapidly declining. You can't have two better hosts than the major Los Angeles colleges, as Los Angeles is an urban environment if ever one existed in this country.
Now, dictionary.com defines "urban" to mean "1. of, pertaining to, or designating a city or town; 2. living in a city; or 3 characteristic of or accustomed to cities; citified".
Given that definition of the word "urban", who did the NCAA schedule to play USC and UCLA in the Urban Invitational, none other than Southern University and Bethune-Cookman University from the bustling metropolises (metropoli?) of Baton Rouge, Louisiana and Daytona Beach, Florida. Not to diminish the fine the cities of Baton Rouge and Daytona Beach, but according to the U.S. Census, their populations in 2006 were 229,553 and 64,183 respectively. The combined population of these two cities is less that 8 percent of the total population of Los Angeles, which as of 2006 was 3,849,378.
I wonder what could make the NCAA think that Southern and Bethune-Cookman are "urban". In searching for the answer I went straight to the websites of the schools. First I looked at Southern's and I found its Mission Statement. "The mission of Southern University and A & M College, an Historically Black, 1890 land-grant institution, is to provide opportunities for a diverse student population to achieve a high quality, global educational experience, to engage in scholarly, research and creative activities, and to give meaningful public service to the community, the state, the nation, and the world, so that Southern University graduates are competent, informed and productive citizens".
I then went to Bethune-Cookman's website to see what it would have in common with Southern University so that they would both be considered urban. From the mission portion of its website, I think I found the connection. "Founded by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune in 1904, Bethune-Cookman University is an historically Black, United Methodist Church-related comprehensive university offering baccalaureate and master degrees."
Now I get it. Because they are both historically Black universities, they must be urban, well, at least to the NCAA. I am sure that the NCAA will tell us that it is because every one of Southern and Bethune-Cookman's students come from large cities, or at least all of their baseball players do. Since we can all understand the absurdity of that statement, I won't bother to bore you with any more statistics, but rest assure that the answer to those questions are "No".
Perhaps the NCAA would use the location of the tournament as the inspiration for the name "urban". If so, then why have both LA schools participate?
I laud the NCAA for wanting to bring baseball to places where the appreciation for the sport may be lagging, all the while allowing schools which may not ordinarily have the opportunity to play against traditional Pac-10 powers that ability. But don't denigrate those schools, their players, their alumni and fans by calling the tournament "urban".
In fact, don't insult the rest of us either.
This all sounds great and noble, bringing baseball to the inner cities where participation is rapidly declining. You can't have two better hosts than the major Los Angeles colleges, as Los Angeles is an urban environment if ever one existed in this country.
Now, dictionary.com defines "urban" to mean "1. of, pertaining to, or designating a city or town; 2. living in a city; or 3 characteristic of or accustomed to cities; citified".
Given that definition of the word "urban", who did the NCAA schedule to play USC and UCLA in the Urban Invitational, none other than Southern University and Bethune-Cookman University from the bustling metropolises (metropoli?) of Baton Rouge, Louisiana and Daytona Beach, Florida. Not to diminish the fine the cities of Baton Rouge and Daytona Beach, but according to the U.S. Census, their populations in 2006 were 229,553 and 64,183 respectively. The combined population of these two cities is less that 8 percent of the total population of Los Angeles, which as of 2006 was 3,849,378.
I wonder what could make the NCAA think that Southern and Bethune-Cookman are "urban". In searching for the answer I went straight to the websites of the schools. First I looked at Southern's and I found its Mission Statement. "The mission of Southern University and A & M College, an Historically Black, 1890 land-grant institution, is to provide opportunities for a diverse student population to achieve a high quality, global educational experience, to engage in scholarly, research and creative activities, and to give meaningful public service to the community, the state, the nation, and the world, so that Southern University graduates are competent, informed and productive citizens".
I then went to Bethune-Cookman's website to see what it would have in common with Southern University so that they would both be considered urban. From the mission portion of its website, I think I found the connection. "Founded by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune in 1904, Bethune-Cookman University is an historically Black, United Methodist Church-related comprehensive university offering baccalaureate and master degrees."
Now I get it. Because they are both historically Black universities, they must be urban, well, at least to the NCAA. I am sure that the NCAA will tell us that it is because every one of Southern and Bethune-Cookman's students come from large cities, or at least all of their baseball players do. Since we can all understand the absurdity of that statement, I won't bother to bore you with any more statistics, but rest assure that the answer to those questions are "No".
Perhaps the NCAA would use the location of the tournament as the inspiration for the name "urban". If so, then why have both LA schools participate?
I laud the NCAA for wanting to bring baseball to places where the appreciation for the sport may be lagging, all the while allowing schools which may not ordinarily have the opportunity to play against traditional Pac-10 powers that ability. But don't denigrate those schools, their players, their alumni and fans by calling the tournament "urban".
In fact, don't insult the rest of us either.
A Spartan Record
As another NCAA men's basketball tournament approaches (and no - last night does not count), it is time to pay homage to basketball's history. There is no better way to do that than to celebrate the breaking of records long held. This will occur tomorrow, March 20, at approximately 12:30 Eastern Daylight Time when Michigan State takes the Court. At that time the record for NCAA consecutive tournaments played will be broken.
This record can only be broken by a good not great player, as the truly talented like Kevin Durant and Carmelo Anthony only stay for one year, while others jump to the NBA after 2, 3 or 4 seasons. That is why this year we send a hearty congratulations to Drew Neitzel, who will be appearing in his 9th consecutive NCAA tournament breaking the record of 8 that he held jointly with Duke's Bobby Hurley, Seton Hall's Arturas Karnishovas, Connecticut's Jim Leahy and Indiana's Damon Bailey. (Hmmmm - I wonder if there is a connection among all these players, perhaps something colorful?)
It truly is amazing for a college basketball player to spend 9 years in college, but it certainly seems longer in Netizel's case. He is good enough to be important in every game he plays, but not great enough to leave college for the NBA, or at all for that matter. No press conference has been scheduled to see if Neitzel will return to college next year, but perhaps it is best if that announcement comes after Michigan State ends its tourney run.
Our almost sincerest congratulations to Drew Neitzel for breaking this unbelievable (literally) record.
Please note - the actual record for most NCAA tournament games played is 23, by Christian Laettner. The actual record for most NCAA games played is 151 held by Kentucky's Wayne Turner. It only seems like Neitzel has played over 5,000.
This record can only be broken by a good not great player, as the truly talented like Kevin Durant and Carmelo Anthony only stay for one year, while others jump to the NBA after 2, 3 or 4 seasons. That is why this year we send a hearty congratulations to Drew Neitzel, who will be appearing in his 9th consecutive NCAA tournament breaking the record of 8 that he held jointly with Duke's Bobby Hurley, Seton Hall's Arturas Karnishovas, Connecticut's Jim Leahy and Indiana's Damon Bailey. (Hmmmm - I wonder if there is a connection among all these players, perhaps something colorful?)
It truly is amazing for a college basketball player to spend 9 years in college, but it certainly seems longer in Netizel's case. He is good enough to be important in every game he plays, but not great enough to leave college for the NBA, or at all for that matter. No press conference has been scheduled to see if Neitzel will return to college next year, but perhaps it is best if that announcement comes after Michigan State ends its tourney run.
Our almost sincerest congratulations to Drew Neitzel for breaking this unbelievable (literally) record.
Please note - the actual record for most NCAA tournament games played is 23, by Christian Laettner. The actual record for most NCAA games played is 151 held by Kentucky's Wayne Turner. It only seems like Neitzel has played over 5,000.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
But Was It Fair?
We are through Selection Sunday and I could rant about the fact that America's Team, the Syracuse Orange, were left out of the bracket despite the fact that they are clearly one of the 34 best teams in the country that did not win its conference tournament. With an SOS of 12 and an RPI in the 50's (even though I don't believe in the RPI), Syracuse actually has a better resume than some teams in the field and most of the teams "snubbed." Not saying we should be in, just saying it was worth showing us as snubbed.
That's not why I am here right now. I am here because I live in Atlanta and, like many, was in the path of the tornado Friday night. Forgetting the tragedy of the situation for so many, I would like to address the injustice that was the SEC Tournament. Congratulations to the Georgia Bulldogs, you are the "Champions." Or so we are told.
But was it fair?
Georgia - Kentucky was the postponed game as a result of the tornado that swept through Atlanta on Friday night and damaged the Georgia Dome. With game moved to Georgia Tech's campus on Saturday morning, and the threat of having to play two games on Saturday and three games in less than 30 hours, most felt that Georgia would wear down and be at a distinct disadvantage. I saw it the exact opposite way. I felt that Georgia was all of a sudden playing at an advantage and with house money.
Here is why...Kentucky travels better than any team in the country. You can count on Wildcat fans to turn any neutral arena in to a home away from home. Because of the switch in venue, Kentucky could not get fans into the arena. Only family, friends and and persons immediately related to the programs could get into the arena to watch games. As a result, the announced attendance in the 9,191 seat Alexander Memorial Coliseum was 1,458. The other two games were similar in fan representation and I thought this actually helped Georgia since they seemed to gain confidence with each game. At this time of the season, I don't see conditioning as a problem for 19 and 20 year old kids.
No matter. I don't expect Georgia to be around very long. They aren't a very good team and the SEC is not a very good conference this year. I do feel bad for Kentucky fans though. Not only did they have to travel to Atlanta, and possibly be displaced by the tornado that ripped through the downtown area, but after all that money spent (including the tickets), 99% of them did not see one second of a Kentucky game live.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Just Like Music
Since Sinickal has called both Hopps and myself out for not including enough posts about our Patron Saint, I decided to just call up Mr. Pacman. To my surprise, he was very collegial, and after about an hour of talking about one thing or another, we started talking about music. At which point I just asked him blankly about his favorite songs. He obliged by actually giving me his Top 10 list. There were some surprises, as you can see. Here is the countdown, in reverse order with some comments from Pacman himself.
10. Tennessee - Arrested Development. "Think about it. The words themselves. 'For some strange reason it had to be - they guided me to Tennessee'. They just never told me that I wouldn't get to play every year I was in Tennessee."
9. Goodies - Ciara. "That chick is fine. Every time I hear this song I think to myself, yes I do want those goodies, and I would do whatever I had to do to get them goodies, but I am not hot and bothered."
8. Area Codes - Ludacris. "That's just how I live my life. The song might as well be biological [biographical]".
7. I'm Sorry - Ruben Stoddard. "This cat is so cool, and soulful. He just knows what he is talking about. Plus, I can just put this song on repeat instead of actually having to go to my press conferences."
6. Low - Flo-rida. "This song has a bangin' beat, and it's just so hot right now. Flo-rida is bringin' it fo' real. Plus the lyrics. I thought I was a bad boy, then Flo-rida talks about 'Make it rain, I'm makin' it snow'. Just tight."
5. Country Roads - John Denver. "It keeps me grounded and makes me think of my roots, you know, where I come from, so I's can keeps it real. Come on man, sing it with me. Country Roads, take me home. To the place where I belong. West Virginia, mountain mama. Take me home, Country Roads. I could not have said it better myself."
4. Dollar Dollar Bill - Wu Tang Clan. "One of the all time great songs from one of the all time great rap groups. The only reason this song doesn't rank higher is because they only talk about a couple of dollars, and not 81,000 of them."
3. Girlfight - Brook Valentine. "Man, who doesn't love a little girlfight. Just listen to the poetry. 'Oh snap, these bitches they act like cats. In the middle of the dance floor they preparin to scrap. They takin out their scrunchies and the pullin off their press-ons. The one on the right is the girlfriend, the one on the left is the other woman'. That is genius. I mean, who hasn't been in that situation?"
2. I'm in Love with a Stripper - T Pain. I asked Pacman if this song was biographical to which he responded "Yes". I then asked if he wanted to announce his love publicly and tell his fans which stripper was the object of his affection. He said, "Yeah, all of them." This response led me to question why he has so many (alleged) problems with strippers if he loves them. His simple response, "We always hurt the ones we love". We hear you Pacman. We hear you.
1. Make it Rain - Fat Joe featuring Lil' Wayne. I guess we all should have seen this one coming.
Just to make everyone jealous, I am posting this entry from the Biltmore Hotel pool in Coral Gables, Florida where I am attending the wedding of everybody's favorite NFL kicker. This hotel is absolutely phenomenal. It has quite simply the single largest pool that I have ever seen in my life. Great place for a wedding, or for a little getaway. I highly recommend it. Congrats to Lori and SJ (figure it out) on their upcoming nuptials.
10. Tennessee - Arrested Development. "Think about it. The words themselves. 'For some strange reason it had to be - they guided me to Tennessee'. They just never told me that I wouldn't get to play every year I was in Tennessee."
9. Goodies - Ciara. "That chick is fine. Every time I hear this song I think to myself, yes I do want those goodies, and I would do whatever I had to do to get them goodies, but I am not hot and bothered."
8. Area Codes - Ludacris. "That's just how I live my life. The song might as well be biological [biographical]".
7. I'm Sorry - Ruben Stoddard. "This cat is so cool, and soulful. He just knows what he is talking about. Plus, I can just put this song on repeat instead of actually having to go to my press conferences."
6. Low - Flo-rida. "This song has a bangin' beat, and it's just so hot right now. Flo-rida is bringin' it fo' real. Plus the lyrics. I thought I was a bad boy, then Flo-rida talks about 'Make it rain, I'm makin' it snow'. Just tight."
5. Country Roads - John Denver. "It keeps me grounded and makes me think of my roots, you know, where I come from, so I's can keeps it real. Come on man, sing it with me. Country Roads, take me home. To the place where I belong. West Virginia, mountain mama. Take me home, Country Roads. I could not have said it better myself."
4. Dollar Dollar Bill - Wu Tang Clan. "One of the all time great songs from one of the all time great rap groups. The only reason this song doesn't rank higher is because they only talk about a couple of dollars, and not 81,000 of them."
3. Girlfight - Brook Valentine. "Man, who doesn't love a little girlfight. Just listen to the poetry. 'Oh snap, these bitches they act like cats. In the middle of the dance floor they preparin to scrap. They takin out their scrunchies and the pullin off their press-ons. The one on the right is the girlfriend, the one on the left is the other woman'. That is genius. I mean, who hasn't been in that situation?"
2. I'm in Love with a Stripper - T Pain. I asked Pacman if this song was biographical to which he responded "Yes". I then asked if he wanted to announce his love publicly and tell his fans which stripper was the object of his affection. He said, "Yeah, all of them." This response led me to question why he has so many (alleged) problems with strippers if he loves them. His simple response, "We always hurt the ones we love". We hear you Pacman. We hear you.
1. Make it Rain - Fat Joe featuring Lil' Wayne. I guess we all should have seen this one coming.
Just to make everyone jealous, I am posting this entry from the Biltmore Hotel pool in Coral Gables, Florida where I am attending the wedding of everybody's favorite NFL kicker. This hotel is absolutely phenomenal. It has quite simply the single largest pool that I have ever seen in my life. Great place for a wedding, or for a little getaway. I highly recommend it. Congrats to Lori and SJ (figure it out) on their upcoming nuptials.
Friday, March 14, 2008
We're Going Streaking
As a follow-up to Sinickal's last post, I thought that I would countdown the 5 greatest streaks in sports. Since this topic should need no explanation, let's dive right in, in reverse order.
5. Chicago Cubs - 99 years - Most years making fans say "Wait 'til Next Year". Although some may have caught "Fukudome Fever", don't expect this streak to be broken this year. For every great team that the Cubs put together, there is always a Leon Durham, a Steve Bartman or a Dusty Baker to bail out the rest of the league. That and Aramis Ramirez will probably hit 35 homers and miss 45 games this year.
4. Christian Laetnner - 1 stomping - Most times stomping on a player from an opposing team (Aminu Timberlake for example) in the NCAA tournament while not (a) being ejected; (b) having a technical foul called on him; (c) having any type of foul called on him; or (d) having any punishment doled out to him in any way, shape or form, and going on to hit the last second shot that carries his team into the Final Four over a team with a bunch of quality guys playing above their heads that actually deserved to go to the Final Four after everything they did to ressurect their storied program. Phew. And no, I am not bitter.
3. Byron Nelson - 11 tournaments - Most consecutive PGA tournament wins in a row. Although Tiger certainly has the talent to do something like this, the number of really good players at the PGA level will keep this from happening ever again. Plus, with the Masters around the corner it's almost time to start talking golf.
2. A. C. Green - 1,192 games - Most consecutive NBA games played without having sex. This streak is so remarkable simply because it will never be broken again. Some future hotshot (or not so hotshot) may play as many games in a row, but certainly not without succombing to the fairer sex at some point during that streak.
1. Adam "Pacman" Jones - 233 weeks (and still going) - Most consecutive weeks of attending at least one strip club. Enough said.
5. Chicago Cubs - 99 years - Most years making fans say "Wait 'til Next Year". Although some may have caught "Fukudome Fever", don't expect this streak to be broken this year. For every great team that the Cubs put together, there is always a Leon Durham, a Steve Bartman or a Dusty Baker to bail out the rest of the league. That and Aramis Ramirez will probably hit 35 homers and miss 45 games this year.
4. Christian Laetnner - 1 stomping - Most times stomping on a player from an opposing team (Aminu Timberlake for example) in the NCAA tournament while not (a) being ejected; (b) having a technical foul called on him; (c) having any type of foul called on him; or (d) having any punishment doled out to him in any way, shape or form, and going on to hit the last second shot that carries his team into the Final Four over a team with a bunch of quality guys playing above their heads that actually deserved to go to the Final Four after everything they did to ressurect their storied program. Phew. And no, I am not bitter.
3. Byron Nelson - 11 tournaments - Most consecutive PGA tournament wins in a row. Although Tiger certainly has the talent to do something like this, the number of really good players at the PGA level will keep this from happening ever again. Plus, with the Masters around the corner it's almost time to start talking golf.
2. A. C. Green - 1,192 games - Most consecutive NBA games played without having sex. This streak is so remarkable simply because it will never be broken again. Some future hotshot (or not so hotshot) may play as many games in a row, but certainly not without succombing to the fairer sex at some point during that streak.
1. Adam "Pacman" Jones - 233 weeks (and still going) - Most consecutive weeks of attending at least one strip club. Enough said.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
What have you ever won 20 times in a row?
Okay, if you are paying attention to the NBA - and judging by the tv ratings, you are not - you know that one of the great winning streaks in sports history is in progress. Yes, the Houston Rockets have won 20 in row. That is not a misprint. 20 IN A ROW!
So, what does this mean...
Well, let's put this into perspective:
So, what does this mean...
Well, let's put this into perspective:
- Pop the champaign! It's three more than the 1972 Miami Dolphins.
- The Rockets went from 4 games over .500 (middle of the pack in the Western Conference) to 24 games over .500 (1 game off the best record in the West).
- Let me repeat that, the Rockets may be playing the Lakers on Sunday for the best record in the Western Conference!
- The Lakers have the best record in the West? Where have I been? Oh, that's right, watching hockey.
- The Rockets have won 8 in a row without Yao Ming.
That always prompts the easy joke - What does Dirk Nowitzki scream when he turns an ankle?
Wait for it.....
Yao!
You know, as I was going through relevant statistics regarding this, I stumbled across a lot of stuff. This is unrelated, but were you aware that the Celtics have also won 10 in a row? Not only do they have the best record in basketball, but they have 6.0 games in the loss column over the next best team in the NBA, and a 17.5 game lead on the second place team in the Atlantic Division! Oh, and the Pistons have the second best record. I know that people think that the Western Conference is by far the most competitive, but I haven't even mentioned Lebron James yet. For once, I am looking forward to the NBA playoffs. This could be one of the best ever.
Back to the Rockets...Here is why it doesn't matter. They would need another month to get to the all-time record held by the 1971-72 LA Lakers and there next 6 games (in nine days) are Bobcats, Lakers, Celtics, @ Hornets, @Warriors, @ Suns.
21 wins in a row is a great achievement. It is not however, 504 in a row. That all-time team sports mark is held by the Miller Place High School (NY) Badminton team.
Reason #2 We Hate Lawyers
Lawyers, by virtue of their jobs, sometimes get the opportunity to go to places that the average, ordinary person doesn't. For example, take Wanda Jackson of Atlanta. She is an attorney, and on January 3, 2008, she was able to walk around the office of the Body Tap Strip Club. Now, most of us will never have the opportunity to have that much access to a strip club, at least not without $81,000.
Allegedly, Ms. Jackson (go figure, a Ms. Jackson living in the home city of Outkast), was sitting in the office when the owner walked into the hall to deal with a member of our Patron Saint's entourage. Ms. Jackson "followed to gawk". Of all the things in a strip club at which to gawk, Ms. Jackson wants to go see Pacman and his entourage. Bad idea number 1. At that point, an argument ensued (don't they always). Bad idea number 2. Allegedly, our almighty Patron Saint lunged at Ms. Jackson and punched her in the left eye.
Now, if you are going to be wandering around in a strip club with the ever present Pacman, you have to learn that anything, and I mean anything, could happen. Despite being privileged to move around in locales about which the rest of us can only dream, lawyers think they can do anything, but they can't. And that is reason number 2 why we hate lawyers:
THEY CANNOT TAKE A PUNCH!
If they could, Ms. Jackson would have just given back to Pacman as good as she (allegedly) received, a scuffle would have occurred, and then they would have gone back out to the front and had beers together. (Or someone would have been stabbed or shot - who knows). Instead, Ms. Jackson asked for an arrest warrant against our Patron Saint. The nerve. Lawyers will do anything to keep our Patron Saint off the field.
Allegedly, Ms. Jackson (go figure, a Ms. Jackson living in the home city of Outkast), was sitting in the office when the owner walked into the hall to deal with a member of our Patron Saint's entourage. Ms. Jackson "followed to gawk". Of all the things in a strip club at which to gawk, Ms. Jackson wants to go see Pacman and his entourage. Bad idea number 1. At that point, an argument ensued (don't they always). Bad idea number 2. Allegedly, our almighty Patron Saint lunged at Ms. Jackson and punched her in the left eye.
Now, if you are going to be wandering around in a strip club with the ever present Pacman, you have to learn that anything, and I mean anything, could happen. Despite being privileged to move around in locales about which the rest of us can only dream, lawyers think they can do anything, but they can't. And that is reason number 2 why we hate lawyers:
THEY CANNOT TAKE A PUNCH!
If they could, Ms. Jackson would have just given back to Pacman as good as she (allegedly) received, a scuffle would have occurred, and then they would have gone back out to the front and had beers together. (Or someone would have been stabbed or shot - who knows). Instead, Ms. Jackson asked for an arrest warrant against our Patron Saint. The nerve. Lawyers will do anything to keep our Patron Saint off the field.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
I Think They Call It Hockey...
Guess where I was yesterday?
I was in Philips Arena for something called Hockey. Yeah, I am pretty sure that's what it was called.
It was weird...There was ice, and people on skates with sticks. Like nothing I had ever seen on television. My tickets were free, so they let us sit in something called a club section - in the center of the arena, seven rows off the ice. I must say, I enjoyed myself!
Here were some of my observations from this "event:"
By the way, did you know that the NHL All-Star Game was here a couple of weeks ago? Neither did I. Oh, it happened two blocks from my house.
Now, I am not just about reporting problems. I am also about solutions. So, here are mine:
I was in Philips Arena for something called Hockey. Yeah, I am pretty sure that's what it was called.
It was weird...There was ice, and people on skates with sticks. Like nothing I had ever seen on television. My tickets were free, so they let us sit in something called a club section - in the center of the arena, seven rows off the ice. I must say, I enjoyed myself!
Here were some of my observations from this "event:"
- Apparently, this is a professional sport. They even pay the players.
- The organizers of the event were attempting a white out. Didn't work since the team wore its BLUE jerseys! That's right, Colorado was in white.
- There were a whole lot of fans dressed in the same black color as the seats in the arena.
- The Atlanta team is called the Thrashers. I think I knew that, but I am not sure
By the way, did you know that the NHL All-Star Game was here a couple of weeks ago? Neither did I. Oh, it happened two blocks from my house.
Now, I am not just about reporting problems. I am also about solutions. So, here are mine:
- Bring back fighting! I was so angry about all of the "almost" fights.
- Get off Versus and get a network deal. If Notre Dame can do it, so can you
- Retract some teams. Seriously, hockey in Atlanta? Carolina? Miami? Phoenix? Maybe we can put a team in Key West.
- Bring back fighting! Oh, I said that already.
All in all, a boring but fun night. I recommend it for all.....
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Makin' it Rain....Cowboy Style
Look who has finally arrived! Oh, hell yes...It's your boy, Sinickal.
I am sure that you all are following closely the plight of our Patron Saint. That's right, the Pacman hasn't even been reinstated to the league yet and Jerry Jones is already about to make it rain.
Don't believe me? Well, while you are reading about non-updates regarding Pacman's potential situation in Dallas, consider this...HE ISN'T ABLE TO PLAY. He may not be re-instated this year!
I wonder if Pacman has had a pole and stage installed in his house yet. At least Jerry can stop by and practice making it rain before trading away his draft for Darren McFadden. It's about time Karma thought about repaying Cowboy fans for that Hershel Walker trade in 1989.
I am sure that you all are following closely the plight of our Patron Saint. That's right, the Pacman hasn't even been reinstated to the league yet and Jerry Jones is already about to make it rain.
Don't believe me? Well, while you are reading about non-updates regarding Pacman's potential situation in Dallas, consider this...HE ISN'T ABLE TO PLAY. He may not be re-instated this year!
I wonder if Pacman has had a pole and stage installed in his house yet. At least Jerry can stop by and practice making it rain before trading away his draft for Darren McFadden. It's about time Karma thought about repaying Cowboy fans for that Hershel Walker trade in 1989.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
So Long NFL, Hello Hall of Fame
As I am sure everyone is well aware by now, an NFL great, truly one of the greatest to ever play his position, announced his retirement from professional football yesterday. Certainly this man needs no introduction, but his history is long and interesting.
He was born and played high school football in the rural (and I mean rural!) South. Having played various positions in high school, he went to college where he played a position that wasn't a big emphasis for him in high school. Having rather easily made the transition in college, he led his team to a victory over Florida State.
Even though he was known as a hard charging partier, he earned seven Pro-Bowl berths during his illustrious career, and even led his team to a Super Bowl championship.
On the field, he was well known for his personality in addition to his talent and skill, and this as much as anything led to his notoriety.
Now that he is retired, it is a foregone conclusion that he will be inducted into the Hall of Fame as one of the greatest players of his era, one of the greatest players at his position, and truly one of the remarkable characters in NFL history.
That is why, in just five short years, the NFL Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio will welcome him with open arms. And when that happens, there will be tens of thousands of people in attendance to see WARREN SAPP give his acceptance speech.
He was born and played high school football in the rural (and I mean rural!) South. Having played various positions in high school, he went to college where he played a position that wasn't a big emphasis for him in high school. Having rather easily made the transition in college, he led his team to a victory over Florida State.
Even though he was known as a hard charging partier, he earned seven Pro-Bowl berths during his illustrious career, and even led his team to a Super Bowl championship.
On the field, he was well known for his personality in addition to his talent and skill, and this as much as anything led to his notoriety.
Now that he is retired, it is a foregone conclusion that he will be inducted into the Hall of Fame as one of the greatest players of his era, one of the greatest players at his position, and truly one of the remarkable characters in NFL history.
That is why, in just five short years, the NFL Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio will welcome him with open arms. And when that happens, there will be tens of thousands of people in attendance to see WARREN SAPP give his acceptance speech.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Spearing Some Marlins
As the calendar turns to March, those of us in South Florida automatically start to think about baseball. Spring training abounds, and northern baseball fans make their yearly pilgrimage to my town in order to watch their favorite team, escape the horrid winter weather, and take my parking spots at my regular pubs. Ahhh baseball. Since it is now March, it seems a perfect time to write my first, and quite possibly only, preseason preview. Ladies and Gentlemen, the Florida Marlins.
In some respects, the Florida Marlins are a model franchise. They compete for a World Series championship at least once a decade, have not lost a playoff series in their admittedly short history and their management has an incredible eye at identifying young talent. However, something seems to be missing (well, more than one thing for sure). That something is recognizable and identifiable players around whom the team is defined. That trend continues this year. Outside of Hanley Ramirez, I would doubt that any non-season ticket holder could name 5 Marlins. WAIT - they have season ticket holders?! Who knew?!
In 1997, the Marlins won their first World Series in franchise history, after making their debut in 1992. That team had not only good players, but also very recognizable players: Gary Sheffield, Devon White, Moises Alou, Kevin Brown, Al Leiter, Charles Johnson. What happened? After determining that winning a World Series did not necessarily equate with greater profits, the owner/management dismantled the team. At least they waited an entire week before releasing Alou. ONE WEEK!!!
The fan base was outraged, but in retrospect, the team did great. They packaged known talent for unknown prospects, almost all of whom seemingly hit the big time. Then, in 2003, only six years after winning their first World Series, the Marlins won their second, with an assist by two guys named Bartman and Baker. (Bartman got the blame, but Baker was the real goat in that series, by the way). That team also had stars: Josh Beckett, Pudge Rodriguez, Mike Lowell, and the emerging Dontrelle Willis and Miguel Cabrera. Then, as if on cue, the team was dismantled again, although this time much slower and subtler (if that is even a word).
As a quick aside, what teams outside of the traditional powers, wouldn't love to win a World Series every 6 to 10 years and then rebuild in between, so long as the fans new that the rebuilding would be successful and culminate in an actual chance to go and win the World Series after a few years. It could be worse, the Marlins could be the Cubs, and not win anything in, well, let's just call it 100 years. Back to the column.
Having traded Beckett and Lowell to the Red Sox, the Marlins received Hanley Ramirez and Anibal Sanchez, an emerging perennial All-Star and a pitcher who has already thrown a no-hitter. In 2006, the team had 6 rookies with at least 20 Home Runs. The team seemed on cue for another run in either 2008 or 2009 (preferably 2009 just to keep the every six years string going). They had known quantities ready for 2009, Cabrera, Ramirez and the ever popular D-Train. Then, something happened on the way to their appointed date with destiny. The Marlins traded Willis and Cabrera to the Detroit Tigers for a package of about 6 players.
Now, by all accounts the package received by the Marlins is loaded with prospects, included some very live arms, and at least one potentially potent bat. (Don't ask who - if I told you the names you could then be able to name 5 Marlins - besides, the actual prospects are irrelevant for the purposes of this column). From reading and listening to those who follow minor league baseball, the Marlins may have acquitted themselves very well in this trade, especially since it appears that the league has figured out Dontrelle Willis, whose numbers have declined in the past few seasons. But even though the Marlins may ultimately win the numbers game with this trade, the Marlins are still missing any names or personalities that will draw fans to the ballpark.
And that my friends, is the problem with the Marlins. There is absolutely no reason to watch this team. Do they have talent? Absolutely. Are a lot of the players on this team going to have long established careers in the majors? Yes. Do fans want to watch Dan Uggla flawlessly turn a double play or Miguel Olivo continue to be a league leader in hitting when swinging at the first pitch or even Jeremy Hermida play two amazing games followed by eight games in which he looks completely lost at the plate and in the field? NO!!!
What this team needs is someone for whom to root and cheer, a reason for the kids to become excited about the team and a reason for baseball fans to be excited about the possibilities, even if those possibilities are literally the proverbial "next year". They need a player that can singlehandedly be responsible for a sellout - thereby giving exposure to the guys like Uggla, Olivo, Mike Jacobs, Cameron Maybin, Andrew Miller and the almost immortal Rick VandenHurk (OK - so now you know 5 other players).
Perhaps the Marlins already have that player in Hanley Ramirez. If you are a baseball fan, he is an absolute must see. He still needs some work on defense, but he puts on a show every single night. However, given the recent history, most Marlins fans are resigned to the fact that he is going to be traded in the next couple of years in a salary-cutting deal that probably will bring several really good prospects. Since the fans already believe that Ramirez will not be around for any length of time, no need to invest any emotional capital in him now, right? (Or actual dollars - unless you want to go ahead and buy that future throwback Ramirez Marlins jersey).
Without a reason to watch this team, and without hope for any postseason titles, the Marlins fans need something to get them through baseball season. Which is why I am going to watch Pudge, D-Train and Cabrera on the Tigers. If that doesn't work, perhaps Joe Girardi can keep the players motivated - once all the prospects blossom and are traded to the Yankees. Until then, here's hoping that Anibal Sanchez's next no-hitter is pitched on the road, so perhaps some people can actually see it live and in person. Until the team's strategy changes, expect to see many more of last year's Marlins-Nationals games, where only 700 people attend.
In some respects, the Florida Marlins are a model franchise. They compete for a World Series championship at least once a decade, have not lost a playoff series in their admittedly short history and their management has an incredible eye at identifying young talent. However, something seems to be missing (well, more than one thing for sure). That something is recognizable and identifiable players around whom the team is defined. That trend continues this year. Outside of Hanley Ramirez, I would doubt that any non-season ticket holder could name 5 Marlins. WAIT - they have season ticket holders?! Who knew?!
In 1997, the Marlins won their first World Series in franchise history, after making their debut in 1992. That team had not only good players, but also very recognizable players: Gary Sheffield, Devon White, Moises Alou, Kevin Brown, Al Leiter, Charles Johnson. What happened? After determining that winning a World Series did not necessarily equate with greater profits, the owner/management dismantled the team. At least they waited an entire week before releasing Alou. ONE WEEK!!!
The fan base was outraged, but in retrospect, the team did great. They packaged known talent for unknown prospects, almost all of whom seemingly hit the big time. Then, in 2003, only six years after winning their first World Series, the Marlins won their second, with an assist by two guys named Bartman and Baker. (Bartman got the blame, but Baker was the real goat in that series, by the way). That team also had stars: Josh Beckett, Pudge Rodriguez, Mike Lowell, and the emerging Dontrelle Willis and Miguel Cabrera. Then, as if on cue, the team was dismantled again, although this time much slower and subtler (if that is even a word).
As a quick aside, what teams outside of the traditional powers, wouldn't love to win a World Series every 6 to 10 years and then rebuild in between, so long as the fans new that the rebuilding would be successful and culminate in an actual chance to go and win the World Series after a few years. It could be worse, the Marlins could be the Cubs, and not win anything in, well, let's just call it 100 years. Back to the column.
Having traded Beckett and Lowell to the Red Sox, the Marlins received Hanley Ramirez and Anibal Sanchez, an emerging perennial All-Star and a pitcher who has already thrown a no-hitter. In 2006, the team had 6 rookies with at least 20 Home Runs. The team seemed on cue for another run in either 2008 or 2009 (preferably 2009 just to keep the every six years string going). They had known quantities ready for 2009, Cabrera, Ramirez and the ever popular D-Train. Then, something happened on the way to their appointed date with destiny. The Marlins traded Willis and Cabrera to the Detroit Tigers for a package of about 6 players.
Now, by all accounts the package received by the Marlins is loaded with prospects, included some very live arms, and at least one potentially potent bat. (Don't ask who - if I told you the names you could then be able to name 5 Marlins - besides, the actual prospects are irrelevant for the purposes of this column). From reading and listening to those who follow minor league baseball, the Marlins may have acquitted themselves very well in this trade, especially since it appears that the league has figured out Dontrelle Willis, whose numbers have declined in the past few seasons. But even though the Marlins may ultimately win the numbers game with this trade, the Marlins are still missing any names or personalities that will draw fans to the ballpark.
And that my friends, is the problem with the Marlins. There is absolutely no reason to watch this team. Do they have talent? Absolutely. Are a lot of the players on this team going to have long established careers in the majors? Yes. Do fans want to watch Dan Uggla flawlessly turn a double play or Miguel Olivo continue to be a league leader in hitting when swinging at the first pitch or even Jeremy Hermida play two amazing games followed by eight games in which he looks completely lost at the plate and in the field? NO!!!
What this team needs is someone for whom to root and cheer, a reason for the kids to become excited about the team and a reason for baseball fans to be excited about the possibilities, even if those possibilities are literally the proverbial "next year". They need a player that can singlehandedly be responsible for a sellout - thereby giving exposure to the guys like Uggla, Olivo, Mike Jacobs, Cameron Maybin, Andrew Miller and the almost immortal Rick VandenHurk (OK - so now you know 5 other players).
Perhaps the Marlins already have that player in Hanley Ramirez. If you are a baseball fan, he is an absolute must see. He still needs some work on defense, but he puts on a show every single night. However, given the recent history, most Marlins fans are resigned to the fact that he is going to be traded in the next couple of years in a salary-cutting deal that probably will bring several really good prospects. Since the fans already believe that Ramirez will not be around for any length of time, no need to invest any emotional capital in him now, right? (Or actual dollars - unless you want to go ahead and buy that future throwback Ramirez Marlins jersey).
Without a reason to watch this team, and without hope for any postseason titles, the Marlins fans need something to get them through baseball season. Which is why I am going to watch Pudge, D-Train and Cabrera on the Tigers. If that doesn't work, perhaps Joe Girardi can keep the players motivated - once all the prospects blossom and are traded to the Yankees. Until then, here's hoping that Anibal Sanchez's next no-hitter is pitched on the road, so perhaps some people can actually see it live and in person. Until the team's strategy changes, expect to see many more of last year's Marlins-Nationals games, where only 700 people attend.
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