I'm going to rant.
This post was supposed to be about how much I like Mark Teixeira, and how having him on the Red Sox makes perfect sense. He is as close to the perfect player for the philosophy of the Red Sox as they come.
In typical Scott Boras fashion, the negotiations between all teams submitting bids, has dragged out entirely way to long, and has completely held up the entire offseason outside of the signing of CC Sabathia and AJ Burnett to the Yankees, which was a given, and some minor signings around the league.
When I woke up this morning there were multiple reports that Mark Teixeira was due to make a decision today on where he wants to play for the next 8 years of his career. Considering the Angels had withdrew their bid, and the only other serious offers on the table were from the Red Sox, Orioles and Nationals, I liked our chances.
However, reports are out that Mark Teixeira is not only not signing with the Red Sox, but with the goddamn fucking Yankees, who apparently put in a last minute bid in order to steal him away.
It's no secret that I have a strong disdain for the Yankees, not because I am a Red Sox fan (though that certainly helps), but mainly because I am sick and tired of their whole act. "Well you should come play for us because we're the Yankees, and well everyone who matters plays for us". George Steinbrenner was the first owner to really just spend an incredible amount of money on free agents in order to buy a championship. It happened in the 70's with Reggie Jackson, throughout the 80's, and again since the turn of the century. I can't hate on the Yankees teams of the 90's that were winning championships with all the homegrown core players they had.
Regardless, this has gone entirely way to far already this offseason. The MFY's now have $118 million commited to 5 players on their roster now. FIVE.
$30M for ARod
$25M for Teix
$23M for CC
$22M for Jeter
$18M for Burnett
They've also now spent roughly $425 million on 3 contracts this offseason. I'm sorry but that's ridiculous.
Don't get me wrong, the Red Sox by no means are some small market team that spends no money. They are always in the top 5 in terms of payroll, but the gap from New York to everyone else is absolutly astounding.
Call me bitter, I don't care that's your opinion, but this is starting to get out of hand. I really hope this offseason comes back to bite them in the ass, especially with this economy we have going right now, and the fact that they haven't been able to sell an luxury seats in the new stadium.
Speaking of the new stadium, I really hope New York City tells the Yankees to go fuck themselves when it comes to financing their new stadium now. If you go and spend $425 million in an offseason, you have no right to ask for help building something like that.
Maybe on second thought I am bitter, but this has just gotten to the point of ridiculousness.
Baseball really needs a salary cap (wont happen), because honestly the luxury tax is a joke.
That all being said, if the offer truly is 8 years/$170 million, and the Sox didn't match that, then goddamn did they ever drop the ball on this one. Obviously it's completely up to the player to determine where they want to play, but considering the Yankees didnt even have an offer until a few hours ago, I highly doubt Teixeira had his heart set on playing for the Yankees.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Monday, December 22, 2008
Updated Playoff Scenarios, and Other Ramblings
Well, today was a crazy day in football. The Patriots trounced the Cardinals 47-7. Kansas City almost gave us a miracle, but eventually lost to the Dolphins 38-31. The Jets did what I expected them to do, and lost to Seattle, thus giving the Patriots a shot at the division if the Jets beat Miami next week coupled with a Pats win.
Updated Playoff Scenarios:
Pats win+Jets win=#3 seed
Pats win+Dolphins win+Jags win=#6 seed
Pats win+Dolphins win+Ravens win=OUT
Pats loss=OUT
In other new, I got absolutely killed on my picks this week, lots of upsets this week.
Stay tuned later this week for some Sox stuff.
Updated Playoff Scenarios:
Pats win+Jets win=#3 seed
Pats win+Dolphins win+Jags win=#6 seed
Pats win+Dolphins win+Ravens win=OUT
Pats loss=OUT
In other new, I got absolutely killed on my picks this week, lots of upsets this week.
Stay tuned later this week for some Sox stuff.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Patriots, NFL Picks, Celtics, and Bruins Update
I know I'm terrible, and I haven't posted in a while. I've been extremely busy finishing up school this semester so I can graduate. Regardless, that hasn't detered me from my passion of sports in the least.
I'll start off with the Patriots today.
I fully expect the Patriots to win pretty easily today. The Cardinals passing offense is obviously well documented, and our secondary sucks, but Boldin is out, and the weather is shitty. The Cardinals have no running game, and this just isn't the type of weather for them to be effective in. It wouldn't surprise me one bit if the Cardinals make a game of it, but I'm not counting on it, there's just too many factors working against them.
I would also not be surprised if this was a game that Cardinals headcoach Ken Wisenhunt tries to rally his troops in an attempt to make a statement game to the rest of the NFL, but don't count on it. The Cardinals have nothing to play for since they have already won their division, and getting players back isn't their main priority right now. Until they find a running game however, they won't be going anywhere in the playoffs.
On the Patriots side of the ball, this is where Sammy Morris, LaMont Jordan and Kevin Faulk step up and have huge, grind em' out, smash mouth football games, along with Wes Welker as usual.
Final score prediction: Patriots 31 - 17
The Patriots need to win this week and next week to even have a shot at making the playoffs. Right now, they are still out of the playoffs, and Baltimore's win last night at Dallas (who played like shit in a game they needed to win), really hurts the Patriots chances. Here is a look at the updated playoff scenarios for the Patriots:
Wild Card (6th seed):
Patriots get the final wild card berth if they win out, and Baltimore loses or ties next week.
AFC East (3rd seed):
Patriots win the AFC East if they win out, and the Jets and Miami both lose or tie a game.
If the Patriots lose a game, they are out of the playoff race.
Onto my week 16 NFL picks. The bolded team was my pick, home team is on the right.
Thursday
Indianapolis vs. Jacksonville
Saturday
Baltimore vs. Dallas
Sunday
Cincinnati vs. Cleveland
San Francisco vs. St. Louis
New Orleans vs. Detroit
Pittsburgh vs. Tennessee
Miami vs. Kansas City
Arizona vs. New England
San Diego vs. Tampa Bay
Houston vs. Oakland
Buffalo vs. Denver
New York Jets vs. Seattle
Atlanta vs. Minnesota
Philadelphia vs. Washington
Carolina vs. New York Giants
Monday
Green Bay vs. Chicago
Now onto the Celtics.
Is it a fair to say that so far the loss of James Posey hasn't hurt the Celtics one bit, though I do have a feeling that come playoff time is where that experience from the bench will be missed. Regardless, the Celtics are off to their best start ever. Let's pause and think about that again. The Boston Celtics are off to their best star EVER. They are 25-2 and have won 17 in a row with number 18 most likely coming tonight against the joke of a franchise that is the Knicks, although D'Antoni has made them competative.
The Celtics are better than last year's version in my eyes. Tony Allen has surpassed any expectations I had of him this season, and Eddie House, Glen "Big Baby" Davis and Leon Powe have all also been pretty solid off the bench. The biggest reason the Celtics are a more complete team this year however has been the play of third year point guard Rajon Rondo. Rondo has improved by leaps and bounds over last year. Why teams continue to leave him open is beyond me. The fact he's behind in the all-star voting with people like Luke Ridnour is terrible. Speaking of the All-Star game, Vince Carter is currently ahead of Ray Allen as well, which is hilarious, and also brings me to my next point. Ray Allen has been a much different player this season. Chalk it up to being comfortable in the system he's in now, or that he's fully healthy, but there were plenty of times last year where Ray Ray would get the ball and I'd cringe. his shot selection was bad, and he wasn't the player we all knew from Seattle. However, this year he's come back and he's nailing those deadly 3's we grew accustomed to seeing in Seattle and Milwaukee. Combined all that with the usual solid play of KG and Kendrick Perkins, who is quietly having a very nice season so far, and you can now see why the Celtics are just flat out better than everyone else. Yes the Cavaliers are good, as are the Lakers, but barring major injuries, I would still pick the Celtics in a 7-game series any day.
The thing that I really admire about the Celtics however is Paul Pierce. I've said it before but, Paul Pierce is by far one of the best players in the league, and last year proved it. He brings a warriors attitude to this team, and he really does leave it out on the court. he might not wear his heart on his sleeve like Garnett does, but you always know Paul is going to show up to play. Say what you want about his numbers, but when he needs to turn it on he does. He's become a more rounded player with the additions of KG and Allen, and it's really showed.
I think the Celtics most solid win of the season came the other night in Atlanta. This was a game that a lot of people expected the Celtics to lose. The Hawks were treating this game as if it was the world championship, even going as far as posting highlights of the Hawks series with the Celtics in the playoffs last year. They Hawks were desperately trying to turn this into a rivalry (it's not in any way, shape, or form by the way), so you knew they would come out with intensity on their home court.
What happened? The Hawks couldn't close the game. They allowed the Celtics to take the lead late in the 4th quarter, when they had been leading since the 1st quarter. The Celtics take the lead, and on the ensuing posession Joe Johnson is fouled and misses the game tying free throw.
I now missed free throws happen, but if that weer the Celtics in that situation, would you really expect Ray Allen, or Paul Pierce to miss that free throw? No you wouldn't. Before he even shot I had a feeling he would miss the second one.
I know it's weird to use that as an example of a good team, but the truth is, you make free throws if you are a good team. The Hawks are good, but they simply cannot compete on the same level as the Celtics this year. I know the Celtics have only beat them by a total of 4 points in two games this year, but they were outplayed in both games and still won, because the Hawks cannot close.
Should we start comparing the Celtics to the '95-96 Bulls, and wondering if the Celtics will break their record for most wins in a season? While I certainly think it's possible, and would not be surprised if they did manage to tie or break the record, the comparisons need to stop. It's too early in the season to start discussing that. That's like wondering if an NFL team will go undefeated when they are 6-0.
Finally onto the Boston Bruins.
The Bruins continue to play solid, winning hockey. They have won 13 in a row at home, and have only failed to get at least one point twice in their passed 20 games (17-2-1). They have gotten contributions from all 4 lines, and even though their defense has gotten hit with the injury bug, the kids they've called up from the AHL have stepped in nicely and played well. Everybody has been praising the San Jose Sharks about their record setting start, and rightfully so. But what these people have failed to realize is that the Bruins are right behind them in terms of points. If the Bruins win tonight, they will have 52 points to the Sharks 55, with an equal amount of games played.
The biggest reason the Bruins have turned the corner this season has been the solid all around play of the team, but a few individuals in particular stand out to me. Phil Kessel for one has really put it together this season. He's on a 17-game scoring streak and has scored 21 goals, and added 14 assists to boot. He's on pace for a 50-60 goal season and 90-100 points. Not only has he found his scoring touch, but he's matured and is playing a two-way game finally. Coach Claude Julien benched him for three games in the first round of the playoffs last year, and it seems he got his point across.
Next up is David Krejci. After a pretty good rookie season last year, Krejci has really found his scoring touch on the second line with Michael Ryder and Blake Wheeler. He's been the biggest surprise so far on the season for the Bruins, and is on pace for 85-90 points. If you said you expected that from him this season, you'd be lying.
The goal tending has been the single biggest reason the Bruins are where they are right now however. Tim Thomas and a rejuvinated Manny Fernandez have played outstanding hockey, and there isn't another goalie tandem in the league on their level. You feel confident about your chances of winning the game no matter who starts in net for that game.
It's a shame Bergeron got hurt again. Although his numbers this season weren't anything stellar or near what they used to be, he was still playing solid hockey and the fact that Patrice Bergeron was your 3rd line center really shows the depth of this team, and organization as a whole. Hopefully it's not another concussion, because that could quickly derail his career.
Speaking of injuries, if Bergeron manages to return this year, the Bruins will be in a very nice position come the trading deadline. The Bruins currently have Andrew Ferrance, Aaron Ward, Marco Sturm and Patrice Bergeron all out of the lineup. If those players can return, that's a better move for the Bruins to make than any trade this season in my eyes.
I fully expect the Bruins to continue this stretch of good play throughout the season and into the playoffs. They are the team to beat in the Eastern Conference at the moment, and I would not be surprised if they won the Stanley Cup this year. One can only hope, as it is the last part of the sports domination Boston need this decade.
I'll write about the Red Sox, and Mark Teixeria later on in the week, regardless if we've signed him already or not.
Until then, take care and have a safe and happy holiday season.
I'll start off with the Patriots today.
I fully expect the Patriots to win pretty easily today. The Cardinals passing offense is obviously well documented, and our secondary sucks, but Boldin is out, and the weather is shitty. The Cardinals have no running game, and this just isn't the type of weather for them to be effective in. It wouldn't surprise me one bit if the Cardinals make a game of it, but I'm not counting on it, there's just too many factors working against them.
I would also not be surprised if this was a game that Cardinals headcoach Ken Wisenhunt tries to rally his troops in an attempt to make a statement game to the rest of the NFL, but don't count on it. The Cardinals have nothing to play for since they have already won their division, and getting players back isn't their main priority right now. Until they find a running game however, they won't be going anywhere in the playoffs.
On the Patriots side of the ball, this is where Sammy Morris, LaMont Jordan and Kevin Faulk step up and have huge, grind em' out, smash mouth football games, along with Wes Welker as usual.
Final score prediction: Patriots 31 - 17
The Patriots need to win this week and next week to even have a shot at making the playoffs. Right now, they are still out of the playoffs, and Baltimore's win last night at Dallas (who played like shit in a game they needed to win), really hurts the Patriots chances. Here is a look at the updated playoff scenarios for the Patriots:
Wild Card (6th seed):
Patriots get the final wild card berth if they win out, and Baltimore loses or ties next week.
AFC East (3rd seed):
Patriots win the AFC East if they win out, and the Jets and Miami both lose or tie a game.
If the Patriots lose a game, they are out of the playoff race.
Onto my week 16 NFL picks. The bolded team was my pick, home team is on the right.
Thursday
Indianapolis vs. Jacksonville
Saturday
Baltimore vs. Dallas
Sunday
Cincinnati vs. Cleveland
San Francisco vs. St. Louis
New Orleans vs. Detroit
Pittsburgh vs. Tennessee
Miami vs. Kansas City
Arizona vs. New England
San Diego vs. Tampa Bay
Houston vs. Oakland
Buffalo vs. Denver
New York Jets vs. Seattle
Atlanta vs. Minnesota
Philadelphia vs. Washington
Carolina vs. New York Giants
Monday
Green Bay vs. Chicago
Now onto the Celtics.
Is it a fair to say that so far the loss of James Posey hasn't hurt the Celtics one bit, though I do have a feeling that come playoff time is where that experience from the bench will be missed. Regardless, the Celtics are off to their best start ever. Let's pause and think about that again. The Boston Celtics are off to their best star EVER. They are 25-2 and have won 17 in a row with number 18 most likely coming tonight against the joke of a franchise that is the Knicks, although D'Antoni has made them competative.
The Celtics are better than last year's version in my eyes. Tony Allen has surpassed any expectations I had of him this season, and Eddie House, Glen "Big Baby" Davis and Leon Powe have all also been pretty solid off the bench. The biggest reason the Celtics are a more complete team this year however has been the play of third year point guard Rajon Rondo. Rondo has improved by leaps and bounds over last year. Why teams continue to leave him open is beyond me. The fact he's behind in the all-star voting with people like Luke Ridnour is terrible. Speaking of the All-Star game, Vince Carter is currently ahead of Ray Allen as well, which is hilarious, and also brings me to my next point. Ray Allen has been a much different player this season. Chalk it up to being comfortable in the system he's in now, or that he's fully healthy, but there were plenty of times last year where Ray Ray would get the ball and I'd cringe. his shot selection was bad, and he wasn't the player we all knew from Seattle. However, this year he's come back and he's nailing those deadly 3's we grew accustomed to seeing in Seattle and Milwaukee. Combined all that with the usual solid play of KG and Kendrick Perkins, who is quietly having a very nice season so far, and you can now see why the Celtics are just flat out better than everyone else. Yes the Cavaliers are good, as are the Lakers, but barring major injuries, I would still pick the Celtics in a 7-game series any day.
The thing that I really admire about the Celtics however is Paul Pierce. I've said it before but, Paul Pierce is by far one of the best players in the league, and last year proved it. He brings a warriors attitude to this team, and he really does leave it out on the court. he might not wear his heart on his sleeve like Garnett does, but you always know Paul is going to show up to play. Say what you want about his numbers, but when he needs to turn it on he does. He's become a more rounded player with the additions of KG and Allen, and it's really showed.
I think the Celtics most solid win of the season came the other night in Atlanta. This was a game that a lot of people expected the Celtics to lose. The Hawks were treating this game as if it was the world championship, even going as far as posting highlights of the Hawks series with the Celtics in the playoffs last year. They Hawks were desperately trying to turn this into a rivalry (it's not in any way, shape, or form by the way), so you knew they would come out with intensity on their home court.
What happened? The Hawks couldn't close the game. They allowed the Celtics to take the lead late in the 4th quarter, when they had been leading since the 1st quarter. The Celtics take the lead, and on the ensuing posession Joe Johnson is fouled and misses the game tying free throw.
I now missed free throws happen, but if that weer the Celtics in that situation, would you really expect Ray Allen, or Paul Pierce to miss that free throw? No you wouldn't. Before he even shot I had a feeling he would miss the second one.
I know it's weird to use that as an example of a good team, but the truth is, you make free throws if you are a good team. The Hawks are good, but they simply cannot compete on the same level as the Celtics this year. I know the Celtics have only beat them by a total of 4 points in two games this year, but they were outplayed in both games and still won, because the Hawks cannot close.
Should we start comparing the Celtics to the '95-96 Bulls, and wondering if the Celtics will break their record for most wins in a season? While I certainly think it's possible, and would not be surprised if they did manage to tie or break the record, the comparisons need to stop. It's too early in the season to start discussing that. That's like wondering if an NFL team will go undefeated when they are 6-0.
Finally onto the Boston Bruins.
The Bruins continue to play solid, winning hockey. They have won 13 in a row at home, and have only failed to get at least one point twice in their passed 20 games (17-2-1). They have gotten contributions from all 4 lines, and even though their defense has gotten hit with the injury bug, the kids they've called up from the AHL have stepped in nicely and played well. Everybody has been praising the San Jose Sharks about their record setting start, and rightfully so. But what these people have failed to realize is that the Bruins are right behind them in terms of points. If the Bruins win tonight, they will have 52 points to the Sharks 55, with an equal amount of games played.
The biggest reason the Bruins have turned the corner this season has been the solid all around play of the team, but a few individuals in particular stand out to me. Phil Kessel for one has really put it together this season. He's on a 17-game scoring streak and has scored 21 goals, and added 14 assists to boot. He's on pace for a 50-60 goal season and 90-100 points. Not only has he found his scoring touch, but he's matured and is playing a two-way game finally. Coach Claude Julien benched him for three games in the first round of the playoffs last year, and it seems he got his point across.
Next up is David Krejci. After a pretty good rookie season last year, Krejci has really found his scoring touch on the second line with Michael Ryder and Blake Wheeler. He's been the biggest surprise so far on the season for the Bruins, and is on pace for 85-90 points. If you said you expected that from him this season, you'd be lying.
The goal tending has been the single biggest reason the Bruins are where they are right now however. Tim Thomas and a rejuvinated Manny Fernandez have played outstanding hockey, and there isn't another goalie tandem in the league on their level. You feel confident about your chances of winning the game no matter who starts in net for that game.
It's a shame Bergeron got hurt again. Although his numbers this season weren't anything stellar or near what they used to be, he was still playing solid hockey and the fact that Patrice Bergeron was your 3rd line center really shows the depth of this team, and organization as a whole. Hopefully it's not another concussion, because that could quickly derail his career.
Speaking of injuries, if Bergeron manages to return this year, the Bruins will be in a very nice position come the trading deadline. The Bruins currently have Andrew Ferrance, Aaron Ward, Marco Sturm and Patrice Bergeron all out of the lineup. If those players can return, that's a better move for the Bruins to make than any trade this season in my eyes.
I fully expect the Bruins to continue this stretch of good play throughout the season and into the playoffs. They are the team to beat in the Eastern Conference at the moment, and I would not be surprised if they won the Stanley Cup this year. One can only hope, as it is the last part of the sports domination Boston need this decade.
I'll write about the Red Sox, and Mark Teixeria later on in the week, regardless if we've signed him already or not.
Until then, take care and have a safe and happy holiday season.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
It's Time For A Bruins Post
The Boston Bruins. The red-headed stepchild of Boston sports. The team that no one publicly displays their affection for, even though secretly they enjoy them. Well ladies and gentlemen, it's time to embrace this team for who they are, and that's the best team in the Eastern Conference, and easily the best team in the NHL throughout the month of November (11-1-1). To add to that, the Bruins, they are just absolutely destroying other teams at the Garden, going 8-0-0 at home in November and outscoring their opponents 41-14. That my friends, is incredible.
Tim Thomas and Manny Fernandez right now are the best goalie tandem in the NHL. Yes paying your "backup" goalie in Fernandez, 5 million dollars isn't great, but honestly it's paying dividends right now. You cannot win in this league without a solid backup.
It's nice to see Patrice Bergeron playing again, and playing relatively well after the devestating injury he suffered at the beginning of last season. The biggest surprise of the young season however has been the play of rookie Blake Wheeler. Coming into this season I didn't even think he'd make the team, and through 2 months of the season, he's second on the team in goals. Phil Kessel, Marc Savard, and David Krejci are also playing extremely well.
It's time to come back fans, it really is. In the age of the salary cap, you can't blame Jacobs for not wanting to spend money to win, you just can't. That excuse is old, tired, and frankly the sign of an ignorant fan. Come back and represent this team, because frankly they've earned it.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Pats/Jets Reactions
So the Patriots played the Jets for first place in the AFC East tonight. Everyone fully expected the Jets to kill the "old, and slow" Patriots tonight, and frankly with about 3 minutes to play in the 2nd quarter tonight, that looked to be true.
*The Pats eventually showed some resilience, but really took to long to make adjustments in the first half.
*Matt Cassel played pretty well. However, e really needs to make better decisions though. I can't even count home many times he missed open receivers because he panicked.
*What a fucking catch by Randy Moss with 1 second left to play in the 4th quarter.
*Finally, call me a homer, but this has been on my mind for years now:
NFL overtime really needs to change. That fact that you can dtermine the game based off a coin toss is absolute horseshit. Yes it's benefited every team before, but honestly, it's ridiculous.
Regardless the Patriots are now in 2nd place now after losing to the fucking Jets. We really have only 1 more tough game left on the scheduale and that's Pittsburgh. I fully expect this team to beat the gritty Dolphins next week and then after a hard game against Pitt, run the table against Seattle, Oakland, Arizona and the Bills.
11-5 with no Tom Brady for the whole season? I'll take it.
One final note to all you Jets fans. Your team isn't as good as you think it is. You barely beat a Patriots team that is missing Tom Brady, Lawrence Maroney, Rodney Harrison, 1/2 their running backs, and now Adalius Thomas, and Ty Warren not playing. Injuries suck but you deal with them. I fully expect these two teams to meet again in the postseason, and the outcome to be different.
All in all, it was an entertaining game to watch and truly thats really all you can ask for.
*The Pats eventually showed some resilience, but really took to long to make adjustments in the first half.
*Matt Cassel played pretty well. However, e really needs to make better decisions though. I can't even count home many times he missed open receivers because he panicked.
*What a fucking catch by Randy Moss with 1 second left to play in the 4th quarter.
*Finally, call me a homer, but this has been on my mind for years now:
NFL overtime really needs to change. That fact that you can dtermine the game based off a coin toss is absolute horseshit. Yes it's benefited every team before, but honestly, it's ridiculous.
Regardless the Patriots are now in 2nd place now after losing to the fucking Jets. We really have only 1 more tough game left on the scheduale and that's Pittsburgh. I fully expect this team to beat the gritty Dolphins next week and then after a hard game against Pitt, run the table against Seattle, Oakland, Arizona and the Bills.
11-5 with no Tom Brady for the whole season? I'll take it.
One final note to all you Jets fans. Your team isn't as good as you think it is. You barely beat a Patriots team that is missing Tom Brady, Lawrence Maroney, Rodney Harrison, 1/2 their running backs, and now Adalius Thomas, and Ty Warren not playing. Injuries suck but you deal with them. I fully expect these two teams to meet again in the postseason, and the outcome to be different.
All in all, it was an entertaining game to watch and truly thats really all you can ask for.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Sports Roundup!
Well I haven't written in a while. Mainly cause I had absolutley nothing to say about the World Series at all. I wanted the Phillies to win because I do like them and have be following them since the early 90's, and of course they did which was good. Tampa played like shit, and frankly proved that they didn't belong there. Regardless it's the offseason now, and thus starts one of my favorite parts of the year as a whole.
The Sox don't need much as a team this offseason, mainly just catching. I'm not opposed to seeing Varitek back in a somewhat reduced roll for 1-2 years, and having the Sox trade for one of Texas's young catchers, but Boras is kidding himself if he's using Posada's deal last offseason as a "bench mark" for Varitek. I wouldn't mind seeing a signing or Texeiria and the trading of Lowell to make room for him, but really that's just a luxery and this point. Regardless though, free agency starts on the 14th, it should be exciting.
I still have no idea who will be the AL MVP. Call me a homer but my vote is Dustin Pedroia. Carlos Quinten would have won it hands down had he not injured himself in August and been out for the remainder of the year, and I frankly don't see how Justin Morneau is even in consideration for it. He wasn't spectacular in September, the Twins missed the playoffs (barely), and frankly isn't even the best player on his team (Joe Mauer says hello). That isn't an MVP candidate to me. Regardless it'll be interesting to see who the writer's actually pick.
Enough baseball though, and onto basketball and hockey. The Bruins have exceeded all expectations I had of them thus far, and are playing like a solid team that would have a reasonable shot at the Stanley Cup if the playoffs started today. They are tied for first place in the Northeast Division, and frankly have looked unbeatable recently. Phil Kessel is showing everybody why he was once considered a number one draft pick, and rookie Blake Wheeler already has more goals through 14 games than I think most people thought he'd have all season (6). The real story about this team however, is Tim Thomas. Every year people question his ability, and every year he proves them wrong. He's not even on the all-star game ballot this year, yet he's clearly a top 5 goaltender in the league right now. How he was left off in favor of people like Kari Lehtonen is beyond me. The best part about this team is that they have a solid group of young core guys as well that will only continue to improve.
The Celtics have picked up right where they left off last season. A dismal showing against Indiana aside they have looked dominant. They absolutely embarassed Detroit tonight, scoring 30 points in the second quarter while holding Detroit to a pathetic 10 points...with 4 reserves in the game. It almost feels like they are just toying with the rest of the league. They won a close game against the Rockets, that really shouldn't have been as close if not for 2 awful calls against the Celts from a flopping Tracy McGrady at the end of the 4th quarter. All in all, the Celtics should be back in the finals again this year, and unless LA grows some balls and magically develops a post game, and learns to defend Garnett, the Celtics should take it again.
Finally lets talk about the Patriots shall we. I have no idea where to start when talking about this team. It seems every year they get injured, but this year obviously is much much different. Tom Brady played half of a quarter of football in 2008, and all of New England's fears materialzed when he was injured and lost for the season. Matt Cassel stepped in and frankly looked pretty out of place for the first few games. Now here we are in week 10 of the season, and the Patriots are 6-3, in a tie for first place with Brett Farve, I mean the Jets, and frankly it seems like half their roster is injured. Laurence Maroney is done for the year with a shoulder injury, Sammy Morris and Jordan LaMont have been MIA for a few weeks with various injuries, which leaves the teams running duties to Kevin Faulk and undrafted rookie BenJarvus Green-Ellis. On the defensive side of the ball, the Patriots have been decimated with injuries (it really feels like we say that every year). Rodney Harrison is out for the year again with a knee injury that'll probbaly end his career. Ellis Hobbs has been playing hurt, and Adalius Thomas is out for the year now with a broken forearm. Yet the Patriots are 6-3 (and really would be 7-2 if Jabar Gaffney catches that pass last week and David Thomas doesn't make a boneheaded penalty).
Matt Cassel is a completely different player than he was even 3 weeks ago. Wes Welker has been unstoppable, and Randy Moss hasn't quit on the team yet like many thought he would after Brady was injured, and has been getting more involved in the offense, thanks to Cassel's maturation. More on that thought here. A nicely written article on ESPN today about Cassel.
The Patriots conceivably could be 10-3 at this time in a month with a stranglehold on the AFC East, we'll see how the loss of Thomas impacts the Patriots against the Jets next week, but I really do expect them to win.
If the Patriots make the playoffs, and win a playoff game with Matt Cassel as their quarterback, this will be Bill Belichick's greatest season of coaching hands down. I really wouldn't take this team lightly come playoff time. They all have something to prove from last years historical Superbowl loss, and from all the doubters this year. Right now do I think they'll win? No. But I wouldn't be shocked either.
The Sox don't need much as a team this offseason, mainly just catching. I'm not opposed to seeing Varitek back in a somewhat reduced roll for 1-2 years, and having the Sox trade for one of Texas's young catchers, but Boras is kidding himself if he's using Posada's deal last offseason as a "bench mark" for Varitek. I wouldn't mind seeing a signing or Texeiria and the trading of Lowell to make room for him, but really that's just a luxery and this point. Regardless though, free agency starts on the 14th, it should be exciting.
I still have no idea who will be the AL MVP. Call me a homer but my vote is Dustin Pedroia. Carlos Quinten would have won it hands down had he not injured himself in August and been out for the remainder of the year, and I frankly don't see how Justin Morneau is even in consideration for it. He wasn't spectacular in September, the Twins missed the playoffs (barely), and frankly isn't even the best player on his team (Joe Mauer says hello). That isn't an MVP candidate to me. Regardless it'll be interesting to see who the writer's actually pick.
Enough baseball though, and onto basketball and hockey. The Bruins have exceeded all expectations I had of them thus far, and are playing like a solid team that would have a reasonable shot at the Stanley Cup if the playoffs started today. They are tied for first place in the Northeast Division, and frankly have looked unbeatable recently. Phil Kessel is showing everybody why he was once considered a number one draft pick, and rookie Blake Wheeler already has more goals through 14 games than I think most people thought he'd have all season (6). The real story about this team however, is Tim Thomas. Every year people question his ability, and every year he proves them wrong. He's not even on the all-star game ballot this year, yet he's clearly a top 5 goaltender in the league right now. How he was left off in favor of people like Kari Lehtonen is beyond me. The best part about this team is that they have a solid group of young core guys as well that will only continue to improve.
The Celtics have picked up right where they left off last season. A dismal showing against Indiana aside they have looked dominant. They absolutely embarassed Detroit tonight, scoring 30 points in the second quarter while holding Detroit to a pathetic 10 points...with 4 reserves in the game. It almost feels like they are just toying with the rest of the league. They won a close game against the Rockets, that really shouldn't have been as close if not for 2 awful calls against the Celts from a flopping Tracy McGrady at the end of the 4th quarter. All in all, the Celtics should be back in the finals again this year, and unless LA grows some balls and magically develops a post game, and learns to defend Garnett, the Celtics should take it again.
Finally lets talk about the Patriots shall we. I have no idea where to start when talking about this team. It seems every year they get injured, but this year obviously is much much different. Tom Brady played half of a quarter of football in 2008, and all of New England's fears materialzed when he was injured and lost for the season. Matt Cassel stepped in and frankly looked pretty out of place for the first few games. Now here we are in week 10 of the season, and the Patriots are 6-3, in a tie for first place with Brett Farve, I mean the Jets, and frankly it seems like half their roster is injured. Laurence Maroney is done for the year with a shoulder injury, Sammy Morris and Jordan LaMont have been MIA for a few weeks with various injuries, which leaves the teams running duties to Kevin Faulk and undrafted rookie BenJarvus Green-Ellis. On the defensive side of the ball, the Patriots have been decimated with injuries (it really feels like we say that every year). Rodney Harrison is out for the year again with a knee injury that'll probbaly end his career. Ellis Hobbs has been playing hurt, and Adalius Thomas is out for the year now with a broken forearm. Yet the Patriots are 6-3 (and really would be 7-2 if Jabar Gaffney catches that pass last week and David Thomas doesn't make a boneheaded penalty).
Matt Cassel is a completely different player than he was even 3 weeks ago. Wes Welker has been unstoppable, and Randy Moss hasn't quit on the team yet like many thought he would after Brady was injured, and has been getting more involved in the offense, thanks to Cassel's maturation. More on that thought here. A nicely written article on ESPN today about Cassel.
The Patriots conceivably could be 10-3 at this time in a month with a stranglehold on the AFC East, we'll see how the loss of Thomas impacts the Patriots against the Jets next week, but I really do expect them to win.
If the Patriots make the playoffs, and win a playoff game with Matt Cassel as their quarterback, this will be Bill Belichick's greatest season of coaching hands down. I really wouldn't take this team lightly come playoff time. They all have something to prove from last years historical Superbowl loss, and from all the doubters this year. Right now do I think they'll win? No. But I wouldn't be shocked either.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
ALCS Reactions (Games 4-7)
Well, I really have no words. The Rays deserved to win this series. They outplayed the Red Sox in every single part of the game. They proved to me that they deserve to be where they are. They overcame a horrendous blown lead in game five, and losing in game six, to win the series.
BJ Upton, Carlos Pena (why cant the Sox get guys like him? Oh wait....), and Evan Longoria carried their offense, but one player that shouldn't be overlooked is Willy Aybar. His home run in the 7th inning tonight ended Boston's hope of a come back.
I must say Matt Garza exceeded any expectations I had of him tonight. I expected him to not be able to kleep his emotions under control and crack under the pressure, but he did the complete opposite, hats off to him.
Jon Lester pitched good, not great. Pena should have been out at home if Pedroia makes a better throw to Varitek. The hit he gave up to Baldelli that scored Aybar was more of Varitek making a bad pitch selection than Lester making a bad pitch. Lester had made Baldelli look foolish all night and series long, especially on breaking pitches. So why Varitek called an 0-2 fastball inside is beyond me. The homerun he gave up to Aybar was on a cutter that didn't do anything, and is exactly why Lester got shelled in game 3.
The Sox looked lost at the plate all night long, and Tampa certainly did not help their cause by throwing strikes all night long.
I must say the umpire's strikezone was certainly awkward tonight, but that was for both teams. Although not appealing to the 1st/3rd base umpire on JD Drew's check swing in the 8th with the bases loaded is unforgivable. He checked his swing by the way.
I will say this however. I am happy for Tampa Bay as a franchise, and I am happy for those fans who have been there since the beginning, rooting for an absolutely awful team every year. For them, along with the players, but especially people like Carl Crawford, and Rocco Baldelli, who have been there for a longtime, congratulations to them.
However, for the so called "fans" that have been populating their games as of late, fuck you. You don't deserve this at all. I bet most of you didn't even know you had a baseball team, let alone a good one until last month. I cannot root for a team that has fans like that. Hell it's sad even the Red Sox are starting to turn into that. "Fans" going to the game because it's hip and cool, then leaving in the 5th inning with the Sox down a run.
Again, congratualtions to the Tampa Bay Rays you deserved it. Fuck you to most of your fans, you know the ones with cowbells, and all that junk. They are worthless, bandwagoner wastes, and don't deserve squat. You have not "been waiting my whole life for this", you probably have been waiting 3 weeks.
BJ Upton, Carlos Pena (why cant the Sox get guys like him? Oh wait....), and Evan Longoria carried their offense, but one player that shouldn't be overlooked is Willy Aybar. His home run in the 7th inning tonight ended Boston's hope of a come back.
I must say Matt Garza exceeded any expectations I had of him tonight. I expected him to not be able to kleep his emotions under control and crack under the pressure, but he did the complete opposite, hats off to him.
Jon Lester pitched good, not great. Pena should have been out at home if Pedroia makes a better throw to Varitek. The hit he gave up to Baldelli that scored Aybar was more of Varitek making a bad pitch selection than Lester making a bad pitch. Lester had made Baldelli look foolish all night and series long, especially on breaking pitches. So why Varitek called an 0-2 fastball inside is beyond me. The homerun he gave up to Aybar was on a cutter that didn't do anything, and is exactly why Lester got shelled in game 3.
The Sox looked lost at the plate all night long, and Tampa certainly did not help their cause by throwing strikes all night long.
I must say the umpire's strikezone was certainly awkward tonight, but that was for both teams. Although not appealing to the 1st/3rd base umpire on JD Drew's check swing in the 8th with the bases loaded is unforgivable. He checked his swing by the way.
I will say this however. I am happy for Tampa Bay as a franchise, and I am happy for those fans who have been there since the beginning, rooting for an absolutely awful team every year. For them, along with the players, but especially people like Carl Crawford, and Rocco Baldelli, who have been there for a longtime, congratulations to them.
However, for the so called "fans" that have been populating their games as of late, fuck you. You don't deserve this at all. I bet most of you didn't even know you had a baseball team, let alone a good one until last month. I cannot root for a team that has fans like that. Hell it's sad even the Red Sox are starting to turn into that. "Fans" going to the game because it's hip and cool, then leaving in the 5th inning with the Sox down a run.
Again, congratualtions to the Tampa Bay Rays you deserved it. Fuck you to most of your fans, you know the ones with cowbells, and all that junk. They are worthless, bandwagoner wastes, and don't deserve squat. You have not "been waiting my whole life for this", you probably have been waiting 3 weeks.
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