We all got sick and tired of all of the allegations that Selena Roberts made about Alex Rodriguez in January. Now a couple new allegations came out about A-Roid and its not good right now.
Heres what we have so far and I will give you my opinion after the accused things about A-Roid all according to ESPN.com story via Roberts
-Rodriguez did not stop using steroids when he was traded to the Yankees in 2004, and he might have been using as far back as high school, the Daily News reports. Well then. I guess he gained twenty-five pounds in between sophomore-junior year of high school.
Here is what Roberts said.. "that based on the sudden improvement in his bench press (from 100 to 310) in just six months in high school, and "in conjunction with the reporting that I did with [his high school] teammates would make it irrefutable to me, not a 'may have,' " that Rodriguez took performance-enhancing drugs in high school."
Thats a bit shaky but seriously you can do that with whey protein plus some supplements without using steroids so who knows really. I mean I put on twenty pounds granted it was due to late Taco Bell not weight lifting, it still could happen to anyone.
-Yankees teammates, Roberts writes, nicknamed Rodriguez "Bitch Tits" in 2005 because he put on 15 pounds in the offseason that resulted in round pectorals, a condition called gynecomastia that can be caused by anabolic steroids.
First of all, A-Roid might now be now on the blog as Alex "Bitch Tits" Rodriguez and second of all, this could be true because if you know about roids that happens often with steroids abusers.
-The last one bothers me somewhat... A-Rod "pitch tipped" when he played for the Rangers by letting opponents at the plate know which pitch was coming in lopsided games. A-Rod expected players he helped would reciprocate when he was having an off night and needed to get his batting average up.
Wow, thats unreal. If that is the case that bothers me more than the steroids. That is a dirty move and he should be ashamed of himself if that proves to be true. Although might this be some hype for Roberts book which comes out May 4th? Absolutely but you never know with A-Roid.
-Charlie.
The New Logo
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Sorry Shannon.
This is an apology letter to my friend Shannon who is a big time Denver Nuggets fan because of his man crush on Carmelo Anthony dating back to Syracuse. I predicted on this blog that the New Orleans Hornets would win in seven. Looking at back on this, what an awful idea this was after the Hornets gave up on their coach Byron Scott and got drubbed by fifty-eight points in game four.
We talked a bit after game two and he was on cloud time after the Nuggets gave the Hornets the business. I told him that I still hated J.R. Smith and his god-awful shot selection (he agreed with this). Smith is still an x-factor in the next series because when he hits a couple threes and catches fire then Smith will shoot the most ridiculous shots that you will ever see. I also said George Karl is the worst playoff coach in my opinion after seeing how much he sucked with the Milwaukee Bucks for most the time he was here. He also felt that Karl should be fired a long time ago so he is with me there as well.
As you can see, Shannon is a realistic Nuggets fan but I was a big time hater because they have the most dysfunctional team in the NBA I can remember. I mean they have a white guy (Birdman Anderson) who has more tattoos and drug problems then most hard rockers on MTV. Then you have Kenyon Martin who is always a loose cannon practically shut down David West on defense and did what he needed to do on offense for the Nuggets. The matchup between him and Dirk Nowitzki should be an awesome battle all series long. I have always been critical of Melo's defense in the past couple of years but he seems to have it together plus last night had a playoff high of thirty-four.
The overall reason is Chauncey Billups. They made the best deal of 2008 by dealing Allen Iverson (probably the biggest headcase of them all) and bringing in Billups. He is a great player and has shown no signs of slowing down. He needed a change after being in Detroit for so long. I cannot think of one player that has been more clutch since 2000 than Billups. He can do everything for a team and having a matchup against Jason Kidd works out well for the Nuggets too.
-Charlie.
We talked a bit after game two and he was on cloud time after the Nuggets gave the Hornets the business. I told him that I still hated J.R. Smith and his god-awful shot selection (he agreed with this). Smith is still an x-factor in the next series because when he hits a couple threes and catches fire then Smith will shoot the most ridiculous shots that you will ever see. I also said George Karl is the worst playoff coach in my opinion after seeing how much he sucked with the Milwaukee Bucks for most the time he was here. He also felt that Karl should be fired a long time ago so he is with me there as well.
As you can see, Shannon is a realistic Nuggets fan but I was a big time hater because they have the most dysfunctional team in the NBA I can remember. I mean they have a white guy (Birdman Anderson) who has more tattoos and drug problems then most hard rockers on MTV. Then you have Kenyon Martin who is always a loose cannon practically shut down David West on defense and did what he needed to do on offense for the Nuggets. The matchup between him and Dirk Nowitzki should be an awesome battle all series long. I have always been critical of Melo's defense in the past couple of years but he seems to have it together plus last night had a playoff high of thirty-four.
The overall reason is Chauncey Billups. They made the best deal of 2008 by dealing Allen Iverson (probably the biggest headcase of them all) and bringing in Billups. He is a great player and has shown no signs of slowing down. He needed a change after being in Detroit for so long. I cannot think of one player that has been more clutch since 2000 than Billups. He can do everything for a team and having a matchup against Jason Kidd works out well for the Nuggets too.
-Charlie.
Gotta Love the NBA System
Oh David Stern how you have done it again. Once again, I would love to cheer on how you seemingly find a way to screw things up in the NBA Playoffs no matter what in the last five years.
Heres what Stern did which was wrong, he decided to suspended Dwight Howard for game six tonight against the Philadelphia 76ers for his elbow against Samuel Dalembert. It did look like he punched Dalembert and Stern was right to suspend him, he deserved it. It was interesting to see from Howard because I have been a guy who has called him out on not being intense enough and needing to see more fire. I am happy to see this from Howard to show he cares and if I were a Magic fan I would be pleased.
The thing that is wrong with the system is Stern decided to not to fine Rajon Rondo for his bitchslap on Brad Miller (granted for looking like an idiot, Miller deserves this) then misses two free throws which lost it in overtime. He got fined but not suspended for game six. Why is this? Well Stern wants to make sure that this is the best first round series that we have seen in a long while. I dont think there's one person that could tell me that Stern isnt protecting Rondo for this slap. I like it that did it it because the game tonight should be awesome as well.
-Charlie.
Heres what Stern did which was wrong, he decided to suspended Dwight Howard for game six tonight against the Philadelphia 76ers for his elbow against Samuel Dalembert. It did look like he punched Dalembert and Stern was right to suspend him, he deserved it. It was interesting to see from Howard because I have been a guy who has called him out on not being intense enough and needing to see more fire. I am happy to see this from Howard to show he cares and if I were a Magic fan I would be pleased.
The thing that is wrong with the system is Stern decided to not to fine Rajon Rondo for his bitchslap on Brad Miller (granted for looking like an idiot, Miller deserves this) then misses two free throws which lost it in overtime. He got fined but not suspended for game six. Why is this? Well Stern wants to make sure that this is the best first round series that we have seen in a long while. I dont think there's one person that could tell me that Stern isnt protecting Rondo for this slap. I like it that did it it because the game tonight should be awesome as well.
-Charlie.
Favre Gets Released....
I got a text message from my buddy Ryan who texted me "Here we go again." And I knew right away he was talking about the New York Jets release of Brett Favre. I hope to God that I am wrong right now but would it surprised me if Favre attempted to sign with a team? Not in the slightest.
Not on this blog, but my friends gave me a lot of shit for the fact of my distaste for Brett Favre throughout July and during the NFL season pretty much minus the Jets overtime victory against the Patriots. Yes I have called him a "media whore" and I do believe that he is an untouchable in the media because the only guy I have seen ripped Favre is Jay Glazer. The only reason is because he had "ins" with the Packers front office.
I mean some assclown from the Chicago Tribune made a statement about Favre going to the Vikings and just trying to get attention from ESPN for his story. I firmly believe that Favre isnt cut that deep to stick it to the Packers by going to arguably their most hatred rival in the last three years. To see him in the purple and gold would practically make me puke. I honestly do not see it happening and hope he stays retired for the rest of his life. Maybe he gets involved in some high school coaching but nothing more. Please Brett do it for all of us.
Also I mentioned this to Doz whether "The blame is finally off Ted Thompson shoulders." He goes "Once he retire again, its off." I really hope the Thompson hatred is done for.
-Charlie.
Not on this blog, but my friends gave me a lot of shit for the fact of my distaste for Brett Favre throughout July and during the NFL season pretty much minus the Jets overtime victory against the Patriots. Yes I have called him a "media whore" and I do believe that he is an untouchable in the media because the only guy I have seen ripped Favre is Jay Glazer. The only reason is because he had "ins" with the Packers front office.
I mean some assclown from the Chicago Tribune made a statement about Favre going to the Vikings and just trying to get attention from ESPN for his story. I firmly believe that Favre isnt cut that deep to stick it to the Packers by going to arguably their most hatred rival in the last three years. To see him in the purple and gold would practically make me puke. I honestly do not see it happening and hope he stays retired for the rest of his life. Maybe he gets involved in some high school coaching but nothing more. Please Brett do it for all of us.
Also I mentioned this to Doz whether "The blame is finally off Ted Thompson shoulders." He goes "Once he retire again, its off." I really hope the Thompson hatred is done for.
-Charlie.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Are We Suprised the Lions Screw Things Up?
Here is the short answer: No.
Now here is the long answer; Detroit as you all know signed Matthew Stafford quarterback out of the University of Georgia to a contract worth forty-one million dollars of guaranteed money?! Which is twice the amount of money that Eli Manning made five years ago. This is where I think Commissioner Roger Goodell needs to put his foot down and set a base for guaranteed money for NFL Rookies. Because next year whoever will be the number one pick will want that "Matthew Stafford" money and its just an ugly cycle for years to come.
The other big time problem that the Lions are facing is the fact that Stafford will be a waste of this money. He has a great arm and looks like an NFL quarterback which we has been piss-pounded in our heads by Mel Kiper Jr. for the last five months. Here is the thing that Kiper isnt telling you, they had a team that was preseason number one with a great defense but because Stafford's offensive line wasnt strong enough, they couldnt win an SEC East crown. What does that say about Stafford? He needs a good offensive line, rut roh Detroit.
Of course, the Lions go for a tight end in Brandon Pettigrew from Oklahoma State who has a chance to be a great player but Detroit needed an offensive lineman plus with Michael Oher still around at 20, he could have been that guy. If you put Stafford-Oher together then the Lions might be on to something instead they will be back in the top 10 for the next couple of years.
-Charlie.
Now here is the long answer; Detroit as you all know signed Matthew Stafford quarterback out of the University of Georgia to a contract worth forty-one million dollars of guaranteed money?! Which is twice the amount of money that Eli Manning made five years ago. This is where I think Commissioner Roger Goodell needs to put his foot down and set a base for guaranteed money for NFL Rookies. Because next year whoever will be the number one pick will want that "Matthew Stafford" money and its just an ugly cycle for years to come.
The other big time problem that the Lions are facing is the fact that Stafford will be a waste of this money. He has a great arm and looks like an NFL quarterback which we has been piss-pounded in our heads by Mel Kiper Jr. for the last five months. Here is the thing that Kiper isnt telling you, they had a team that was preseason number one with a great defense but because Stafford's offensive line wasnt strong enough, they couldnt win an SEC East crown. What does that say about Stafford? He needs a good offensive line, rut roh Detroit.
Of course, the Lions go for a tight end in Brandon Pettigrew from Oklahoma State who has a chance to be a great player but Detroit needed an offensive lineman plus with Michael Oher still around at 20, he could have been that guy. If you put Stafford-Oher together then the Lions might be on to something instead they will be back in the top 10 for the next couple of years.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Really Al Davis?
I am sorry Mitch Pratt. My friend Mitch is a big time Raiders fan and I feel bad for him and all of the Black Hole in Oakland because they are getting royally screwed out of having a decent team for 2009. The crazy thing is after reading Mitchy's post about the draft he is happy with it?! Lets break it down here...
You got a guy in Darrius Heyward-Bey that probably wasnt going to be taken until the playoff teams started selecting so why didnt the Raiders try to get a team like Philadelphia or Minnesota for that matter to trade up? They could of received a couple more picks instead of Al pissing one away in the top ten. There is a reason every year the Raiders are drafting in the top ten and this is it. You trade down if you dont like that Michael Crabtree didnt run the forty thats fine but please as a Raider Nation do not come bitchin' to me when he is tearing up the other side of the Bay Area for the Niners.
Then in the second round, they got Michael Mitchell out of Ohio who wasnt projected to get drafted! I seriously wonder what sort of brain damage Al has right now because that is straight up stupid. There were many athletic safeties that were still out and available although they decide to go with this clown in Mitchell.
The one thing I hope for is that the two players are successful because its not Heyward-Bey or Mitchell's fault that Davis decided to draft them But still it doesnt excuse what Al Davis is doing the team. He could of had much better talent and in 2009, you cant have a true deep sleeper like Mitchell, too many scouts do their job damn well.
Al even George Steinbrenner realized when it was time to let go, I hope you do too.
-Charlie.
You got a guy in Darrius Heyward-Bey that probably wasnt going to be taken until the playoff teams started selecting so why didnt the Raiders try to get a team like Philadelphia or Minnesota for that matter to trade up? They could of received a couple more picks instead of Al pissing one away in the top ten. There is a reason every year the Raiders are drafting in the top ten and this is it. You trade down if you dont like that Michael Crabtree didnt run the forty thats fine but please as a Raider Nation do not come bitchin' to me when he is tearing up the other side of the Bay Area for the Niners.
Then in the second round, they got Michael Mitchell out of Ohio who wasnt projected to get drafted! I seriously wonder what sort of brain damage Al has right now because that is straight up stupid. There were many athletic safeties that were still out and available although they decide to go with this clown in Mitchell.
The one thing I hope for is that the two players are successful because its not Heyward-Bey or Mitchell's fault that Davis decided to draft them But still it doesnt excuse what Al Davis is doing the team. He could of had much better talent and in 2009, you cant have a true deep sleeper like Mitchell, too many scouts do their job damn well.
Al even George Steinbrenner realized when it was time to let go, I hope you do too.
-Charlie.
The Jets Are Screwed for 2009
I understand that I am behind on things here at Chucks Corner but I have been ultra busy plus I am starting to get sick so the motivation is not always there. Like I said yesterday I hope to be caught up tomorrow.
Now I think the most interesting thing about the draft was the Matt Sanchez deal. Some people absolutely love the move seeing it as a Joe Flacco-like move for the Jets who are really just a quarterback shy of being a playoff team. Others like my buddy Steve, an avid Jets fan sent me a text saying "Ruined my day." I think I am going to join Steve on this one despite my USC-bias and the fact that I like Sanchez.
First of all, they gave up their first rounder for next year so if they have an awful year (you never know in the NFL) the Browns will be sitting pretty for next year. The other thing that concerns me is Sanchez has only played 16 games of college football and in that time hasnt won a National Championship. If the Jets play this right way, they let Sanchez sit on the bench the whole year to get him experienced in the NFL game.
See this will not happen because the Jets saw what the Falcons did with Matt Ryan who by the way was a senior and I believe a three-year starter for the Eagles or Flacco with the Ravens where he had the best defense in the NFL. The Jets have a good defense, an veteran offensive line, and a pretty solid running game amplified with the Jets picking up Shonn Greene.
If the Jets are a "run-first" mentality team and Sanchez only has to make the key passes like Flacco did, they might be a playoff team. You have to remember the AFC East is a very tough division and Sanchez also hasnt adapted to playing cold weather. He has no idea what a December game in the Medowlands feels like or worse up in Ralph Wilson Stadium.
Needless to say, it might be a long year for the Jets.
-Charlie.
Now I think the most interesting thing about the draft was the Matt Sanchez deal. Some people absolutely love the move seeing it as a Joe Flacco-like move for the Jets who are really just a quarterback shy of being a playoff team. Others like my buddy Steve, an avid Jets fan sent me a text saying "Ruined my day." I think I am going to join Steve on this one despite my USC-bias and the fact that I like Sanchez.
First of all, they gave up their first rounder for next year so if they have an awful year (you never know in the NFL) the Browns will be sitting pretty for next year. The other thing that concerns me is Sanchez has only played 16 games of college football and in that time hasnt won a National Championship. If the Jets play this right way, they let Sanchez sit on the bench the whole year to get him experienced in the NFL game.
See this will not happen because the Jets saw what the Falcons did with Matt Ryan who by the way was a senior and I believe a three-year starter for the Eagles or Flacco with the Ravens where he had the best defense in the NFL. The Jets have a good defense, an veteran offensive line, and a pretty solid running game amplified with the Jets picking up Shonn Greene.
If the Jets are a "run-first" mentality team and Sanchez only has to make the key passes like Flacco did, they might be a playoff team. You have to remember the AFC East is a very tough division and Sanchez also hasnt adapted to playing cold weather. He has no idea what a December game in the Medowlands feels like or worse up in Ralph Wilson Stadium.
Needless to say, it might be a long year for the Jets.
-Charlie.
Brewers Weekly: Thats More Like It
All it took was a Ryan Braun quotable once again to get the Brewers in shape because after he shoulders all the blame on him and his teammates, they go 5-2 for the week with Braun punishing the ball hitting .565 3 homers and I believe 10 RBIs, just tore the cover on the ball and it also helped the rest of the team.
Tuesday: The Brewers got their asses kicked and another Manny Parra defeat who is becoming the new "Dave Bush" because all of the fans are shoveling their hatred towards him. My Dad and I believe that its all in Parra's head so we hope he can rite the ship.
Wednesday: Mark this date because this is the day Doz fell in love with Braden Looper. He gave the Brewers the quality start that they needed and just dominated the Phillies all game long. Todd Coffey did give me a scare in the 9th but was able to lock it down for the save.
Thursday: Dave Bush's haters where ya at?! He goes into the 8th with a no-hitter before Matt Stairs hit a pinch-hit homer which sucked but the Brewers were able to knock Cole Hamels out in the fourth inning after Braunie homered and Prince hit one off his shoulder. Bush's April is very promising
Friday: All I gotta say is YOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. He goes complete and the Brewers had a great two-out rally where I believe every hit was the opposite field which is awesome to see the Crew do because they havent done that in awhile.
Saturday: Before the game everyone was doubting Jeff Suppan's start and it wasnt the greatest although Bill Hall saved his ass by hitting a three-run shot in the sixth. Then this game got crazy just going back and forth starting in the 8th inning with both pitcher staffs just struggling but then in the 11th, Ryan Braun delivered Corey Hart for the win.
Sunday: Not expecting much with most of the back-ups innings and Parra did have an alright start compared to his others. He needs to stop walking pitchers because that is the worst thing you could do.
-Charlie.
Tuesday: The Brewers got their asses kicked and another Manny Parra defeat who is becoming the new "Dave Bush" because all of the fans are shoveling their hatred towards him. My Dad and I believe that its all in Parra's head so we hope he can rite the ship.
Wednesday: Mark this date because this is the day Doz fell in love with Braden Looper. He gave the Brewers the quality start that they needed and just dominated the Phillies all game long. Todd Coffey did give me a scare in the 9th but was able to lock it down for the save.
Thursday: Dave Bush's haters where ya at?! He goes into the 8th with a no-hitter before Matt Stairs hit a pinch-hit homer which sucked but the Brewers were able to knock Cole Hamels out in the fourth inning after Braunie homered and Prince hit one off his shoulder. Bush's April is very promising
Friday: All I gotta say is YOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. He goes complete and the Brewers had a great two-out rally where I believe every hit was the opposite field which is awesome to see the Crew do because they havent done that in awhile.
Saturday: Before the game everyone was doubting Jeff Suppan's start and it wasnt the greatest although Bill Hall saved his ass by hitting a three-run shot in the sixth. Then this game got crazy just going back and forth starting in the 8th inning with both pitcher staffs just struggling but then in the 11th, Ryan Braun delivered Corey Hart for the win.
Sunday: Not expecting much with most of the back-ups innings and Parra did have an alright start compared to his others. He needs to stop walking pitchers because that is the worst thing you could do.
-Charlie.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Packers Take the Draft by Storm
Well the NFL Draft is over and the one team that the immortal one Mel Kiper said had the best draft... the Green Bay Packers.
This makes me happy in so many different ways. The first real reason is because I feel the fans of the Green Bay Packers give Ted Thompson such a hard time with the way he handles the team and in my opinion, Thompson does a very nice job as GM. To me, it seems he is building a winner and he just gets a bad rap from the extremist fans. The other big reason it was so key for the Packers to have a good draft was they have the pieces to be a playoff team but they needed to add some aspects to their team; thats what happened with this draft.
The two big picks, B.J. Raji a three hundred and thirty-three pound space eater at defensive tackle then Clay Matthews a USC outside linebacker who would move into the defensive end spot every once in awhile on obvious passing downs. I love both picks, Raji will rotate with Ryan Pickett giving them two formidable defensive tackles in the middle to create havoc. Matthews I could see rotating with Poppinga and just making plays, he is an animal out of on the football field and I love the swagger he carries.
I also liked the Quinn Johnson pick, a fullback out of LSU who should start right away and Brandon Underwood out of Cincinnati seems like a solid pick-up as well.
****I am really behind with such a busy weekend in sports, I will try to be caught up by Wednesday.
-Charlie.
This makes me happy in so many different ways. The first real reason is because I feel the fans of the Green Bay Packers give Ted Thompson such a hard time with the way he handles the team and in my opinion, Thompson does a very nice job as GM. To me, it seems he is building a winner and he just gets a bad rap from the extremist fans. The other big reason it was so key for the Packers to have a good draft was they have the pieces to be a playoff team but they needed to add some aspects to their team; thats what happened with this draft.
The two big picks, B.J. Raji a three hundred and thirty-three pound space eater at defensive tackle then Clay Matthews a USC outside linebacker who would move into the defensive end spot every once in awhile on obvious passing downs. I love both picks, Raji will rotate with Ryan Pickett giving them two formidable defensive tackles in the middle to create havoc. Matthews I could see rotating with Poppinga and just making plays, he is an animal out of on the football field and I love the swagger he carries.
I also liked the Quinn Johnson pick, a fullback out of LSU who should start right away and Brandon Underwood out of Cincinnati seems like a solid pick-up as well.
****I am really behind with such a busy weekend in sports, I will try to be caught up by Wednesday.
-Charlie.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Jeremy Taylor Paving a Dangerous Road
Something happened today that I think commissioner David Stern and anyone else whose a fan of college basketball made them take a step back when they heard the news of Jeremy Taylor.
If you didnt hear, Taylor is a highly touted high school junior out of California who has decided to pass up his senior year of high school and head to Europe to play professional basketball. He also gives up the scholarship that Rick Pitno gave him to play at Louisville in 2010. All I have to say is what an idot.
There are multiple reasons on why this is a horrible idea. First off, he will be with a bunch of men who he likely will have nothing in common with so he is out of his element already. Second, why miss out on your senior year? Because you are "bored of HS Basketball?!" Cmon, senior year for most kids is the time of their life, why forced yourself into the work world when you dont have to. Third, the support by his father is disgusting, it reeks of a Prince Fielder-Cecil Fielder situation where there is a money-hungry father only looking out for himself and not for his kid. Fourth, is it really that hard to not fail a couple classes in High School? I mean maybe if pops would help his kid with the homework, we wouldnt be wasting time on this kid and Big East fans like me would be fearing playing Taylor in two years.
The other big reason is Brandon Jennings. Like Taylor, Jennings made the choice to skip college for a year and play in Italy because he couldnt get his grades up. If you have read the New York Times article about his time there, he absolutely hates it there. Jennings isnt getting paid on time, the players dont respect him, and basically he lives alone in a foreign place not knowing anyone.
I try my best not to wish poorly on anyone but I wouldnt be surprised if this blows up in Taylor face, if it does you wont see me giving him any sympathy.
-Charlie.
If you didnt hear, Taylor is a highly touted high school junior out of California who has decided to pass up his senior year of high school and head to Europe to play professional basketball. He also gives up the scholarship that Rick Pitno gave him to play at Louisville in 2010. All I have to say is what an idot.
There are multiple reasons on why this is a horrible idea. First off, he will be with a bunch of men who he likely will have nothing in common with so he is out of his element already. Second, why miss out on your senior year? Because you are "bored of HS Basketball?!" Cmon, senior year for most kids is the time of their life, why forced yourself into the work world when you dont have to. Third, the support by his father is disgusting, it reeks of a Prince Fielder-Cecil Fielder situation where there is a money-hungry father only looking out for himself and not for his kid. Fourth, is it really that hard to not fail a couple classes in High School? I mean maybe if pops would help his kid with the homework, we wouldnt be wasting time on this kid and Big East fans like me would be fearing playing Taylor in two years.
The other big reason is Brandon Jennings. Like Taylor, Jennings made the choice to skip college for a year and play in Italy because he couldnt get his grades up. If you have read the New York Times article about his time there, he absolutely hates it there. Jennings isnt getting paid on time, the players dont respect him, and basically he lives alone in a foreign place not knowing anyone.
I try my best not to wish poorly on anyone but I wouldnt be surprised if this blows up in Taylor face, if it does you wont see me giving him any sympathy.
-Charlie.
The State of North Carolina Loses Three Guards
Today was a big day for the NBA Draft as three of the best guards in the nation decided to go pro.
First, Stephen Curry decided to forgo his senior year and go to the NBA. Smart move by Curry because he has hit the ceiling and its a weak draft so he should be able to be a top 15 pick. I compared him to a smaller Reggie Miller with the way he comes off screens and such but I do not believe he has enough skills to be at the level of Miller. He could be alot like his father and any other great three point shooter that stays in the league because of his shooting. I hope that Curry goes to a team who realizes this instead of JJ Redick who could be used that way but Stan Van Gundy chooses not to.
Next player to come out today was Wayne Ellington who out of the three players that did come out today should be the best player. The reasons why.... He can shoot the three better than most, he also can get to the lane, plays good defense, and is very clutch. Ellington should be a top 15 pick too and I have heard comparison of Ray Allen which I could totally see.
Ty Lawson also entered his name and for me, he is the biggest risk. Guards that under six feet are always hit and miss because they need to adapt to bigger players guarding them plus multiple other reasons. He needs to go to the team where Lawson can start out on the bench as an energy player then move into the starting role if successful.
I hope the best for all of them.
-Charlie.
First, Stephen Curry decided to forgo his senior year and go to the NBA. Smart move by Curry because he has hit the ceiling and its a weak draft so he should be able to be a top 15 pick. I compared him to a smaller Reggie Miller with the way he comes off screens and such but I do not believe he has enough skills to be at the level of Miller. He could be alot like his father and any other great three point shooter that stays in the league because of his shooting. I hope that Curry goes to a team who realizes this instead of JJ Redick who could be used that way but Stan Van Gundy chooses not to.
Next player to come out today was Wayne Ellington who out of the three players that did come out today should be the best player. The reasons why.... He can shoot the three better than most, he also can get to the lane, plays good defense, and is very clutch. Ellington should be a top 15 pick too and I have heard comparison of Ray Allen which I could totally see.
Ty Lawson also entered his name and for me, he is the biggest risk. Guards that under six feet are always hit and miss because they need to adapt to bigger players guarding them plus multiple other reasons. He needs to go to the team where Lawson can start out on the bench as an energy player then move into the starting role if successful.
I hope the best for all of them.
-Charlie.
Atlanta Just Got Scary
Well I think everyone in the NFC gave a big sigh when they saw the Kansas City Chiefs traded Tony Gonzalez for a future pick to the Atlanta Falcons.
This was a great trade for both teams really because the Falcons took themselves from being a good team to a Super Bowl contending team with the addition of Gonzalez for multiple reasons. Number one, they have a great young quarterback who seems to be the next great young quarterback in Matt Ryan or as I like to call him Matty Ice (his college nickname). Number two, they have Michael 'The Burner' Turner in the backfield where he proved last year he was much more than a quality backup. Also lets not forget Roddy White, I truly believe is an underrated wide receiver. Now you add Gonzalez to the mix and you have probably the best offense in the NFC.
You might ask why is this a good deal for the Chiefs? They get rid of a guy that doesnt want to be in Kansas City. I firmly believe that if someone doesnt want to be there then ship his ass somewhere else. Yes it will hurt to see Gonzalez tear up in Hotlanta but in the long run, they will be better without the distractions. Now you have to wonder if Larry Johnson will be on the move too because he was another guy who has complained about being a Chief?
-Charlie.
This was a great trade for both teams really because the Falcons took themselves from being a good team to a Super Bowl contending team with the addition of Gonzalez for multiple reasons. Number one, they have a great young quarterback who seems to be the next great young quarterback in Matt Ryan or as I like to call him Matty Ice (his college nickname). Number two, they have Michael 'The Burner' Turner in the backfield where he proved last year he was much more than a quality backup. Also lets not forget Roddy White, I truly believe is an underrated wide receiver. Now you add Gonzalez to the mix and you have probably the best offense in the NFC.
You might ask why is this a good deal for the Chiefs? They get rid of a guy that doesnt want to be in Kansas City. I firmly believe that if someone doesnt want to be there then ship his ass somewhere else. Yes it will hurt to see Gonzalez tear up in Hotlanta but in the long run, they will be better without the distractions. Now you have to wonder if Larry Johnson will be on the move too because he was another guy who has complained about being a Chief?
-Charlie.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Washington Nationals- Fitting for the City
If this was a Bill Simmons column which it isnt, he would end this piece with "Ladies and Gentleman your 2009 Washington Nationals!" There a couple reasons why this team could be one that we hope are worse than the 2003 Detriot Tigers as they seem to be in worse shape than the other group in DC... whoops no politics..
First off lets start off with Elijah Dukes being fined 500 dollars for being five minutes late to the game and even there was a possibility of him getting sent down to AAA. Are you kidding me? I cant not tell you how many times I have been late to work by a couple minutes and oh by the way Dukes had a great excuse. He was doing charity for the team at a local little league! Cmon are you really going to punish a guy whose trying to clean up his image after he had threatened to kill his girlfriend a couple years ago. Dukes is a budding talent so I hope if he is unhappy in Washington he finds a way out.
The next beef with Washington is they spelled their teams' name wrong on Adam Dunn and Ryan Zimmerman's jerseys. The two best players on the GD team and you spell the name wrong on the jersey. Just a classic, "You know things are bad when..." That is just pathetic and there is really no excuse for that shit to happen.
Nationals Manager Manny Acta said after the Dukes incident that "We are trying to build a new attitude in Washington and he was late for his job so he got what he deserved." No sir, you are an asshole and I hope Washington shows your sorry ass the door come May because you should be praising your players for being out the community to give kids someone to look up to.
-Charlie.
First off lets start off with Elijah Dukes being fined 500 dollars for being five minutes late to the game and even there was a possibility of him getting sent down to AAA. Are you kidding me? I cant not tell you how many times I have been late to work by a couple minutes and oh by the way Dukes had a great excuse. He was doing charity for the team at a local little league! Cmon are you really going to punish a guy whose trying to clean up his image after he had threatened to kill his girlfriend a couple years ago. Dukes is a budding talent so I hope if he is unhappy in Washington he finds a way out.
The next beef with Washington is they spelled their teams' name wrong on Adam Dunn and Ryan Zimmerman's jerseys. The two best players on the GD team and you spell the name wrong on the jersey. Just a classic, "You know things are bad when..." That is just pathetic and there is really no excuse for that shit to happen.
Nationals Manager Manny Acta said after the Dukes incident that "We are trying to build a new attitude in Washington and he was late for his job so he got what he deserved." No sir, you are an asshole and I hope Washington shows your sorry ass the door come May because you should be praising your players for being out the community to give kids someone to look up to.
-Charlie.
Puff Puff Pass Percy
Michael Phelps has passed the bong to another well-known sports figure Percy Harvin.
The difference between the two is that Phelps already is draped in gold while Harvin still needs a job for the upcoming 2009 NFL season. I defended Phelps saying "it happens, blah blah blah." But this is a totally different story as my buddy Brett put it.... "You are applying for a job, the greatest job in the world and you cant lay off the weed for a month? Cmon man what are GMs going to think about you?"
I think that Brett sums it up perfectly because anyone of us know that if you want a job, you need to make sure you pass that drug test. It always seems to be a worry for most college kids because for something reason they cannot lay off the bong for a month to get a job. I cant comprehend how stupid Harvin and a projected 4th rounder Brandon Tate who also positive really are.
Todd McShay believes that it will knock Harvin down to the last five spots in the first round which in my opinion, might be generous because they are alot of talented receivers in this draft that do not have this positive drug test... Darius Heyward-Bey, Hakeem Nicks, Kenny Britt maybe as well.
-Charlie.
The difference between the two is that Phelps already is draped in gold while Harvin still needs a job for the upcoming 2009 NFL season. I defended Phelps saying "it happens, blah blah blah." But this is a totally different story as my buddy Brett put it.... "You are applying for a job, the greatest job in the world and you cant lay off the weed for a month? Cmon man what are GMs going to think about you?"
I think that Brett sums it up perfectly because anyone of us know that if you want a job, you need to make sure you pass that drug test. It always seems to be a worry for most college kids because for something reason they cannot lay off the bong for a month to get a job. I cant comprehend how stupid Harvin and a projected 4th rounder Brandon Tate who also positive really are.
Todd McShay believes that it will knock Harvin down to the last five spots in the first round which in my opinion, might be generous because they are alot of talented receivers in this draft that do not have this positive drug test... Darius Heyward-Bey, Hakeem Nicks, Kenny Britt maybe as well.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
I Believe in Jesus Shuttlesworth
I told you guys in my prediction why I thought Boston would beat the Bulls in what would be a seven game series would be Ray Allen. He is the guy who is the glue of the Boston Celtics and he showed last night what happens when he can take over.
First off my channel-flipping skills were top notch with the final minutes of 24 and the end of the Bulls-Celts game at the same time. This is where I wished to be home so I could DVR one of these things. I was able to see all of Jack Bauer and Allen's three at the end of the game to win the game.
Second off this has been a great series so far with the coming out party of Derrick Rose in the first game showing that he is here to stay and then last night seeing Ray Allen and Ben Gordon going back forth as ESPN said "It was like a game of H-O-R-S-E." Honestly that is what it was both guys coming off the screen making it rain like myself on a weekend.
This has now become a must to watch whenever its on (Thursday at 6) and now a new sub-plot with the Celtics losing Leon Powe for the season with a torn ACL leaving Boston with three big men healthy. Rut roh, you are telling Big Baby will have to play 42-45 minutes a game and keep up with it?! Thats not good news at all. Game three is such a huge game and deciding factor on whether the Celtics can keep up with the Bulls.
-Charlie.
First off my channel-flipping skills were top notch with the final minutes of 24 and the end of the Bulls-Celts game at the same time. This is where I wished to be home so I could DVR one of these things. I was able to see all of Jack Bauer and Allen's three at the end of the game to win the game.
Second off this has been a great series so far with the coming out party of Derrick Rose in the first game showing that he is here to stay and then last night seeing Ray Allen and Ben Gordon going back forth as ESPN said "It was like a game of H-O-R-S-E." Honestly that is what it was both guys coming off the screen making it rain like myself on a weekend.
This has now become a must to watch whenever its on (Thursday at 6) and now a new sub-plot with the Celtics losing Leon Powe for the season with a torn ACL leaving Boston with three big men healthy. Rut roh, you are telling Big Baby will have to play 42-45 minutes a game and keep up with it?! Thats not good news at all. Game three is such a huge game and deciding factor on whether the Celtics can keep up with the Bulls.
-Charlie.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Lets Try a Mock Draft Part 2
Here the Mock Draft part 2, if you are looking for part 1, boom goes the dynamite.
17. New York Jets-Josh Freeman-QB-Kansas State- I dont know if this will be the move made but the Jets would like to make a statement like always and Freeman would be answer. He has great size but he has been up/down plus a guy I know who watches more Big 12 than me says Freeman is horrible. Its worth the risk for the Jets.
18. Denver Broncos-Rey Maualuga-OLB-USC- The Broncos struggled so much on defense that it only seems logical for them to have the first two picks on the defense. Rey Rey will be an awesome player in the NFL and could do many big things for Denver next year right away. This will be a fantastic pick for Denver.
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Peria Jerry-DT-Mississippi- This is a guy whose stock has raised in the past couple of weeks and people have talked how much the Bucs love Freeman so they could be moving up to the 15-17 range to land Freeman. They could use a defensive tackle as well.
20. Detroit Lions-Eben Brittion-OT-Arizona- They could go defense here but I think if the Lions want to rebuild which they obviously need to do then its logical to add an offensive lineman here and Brittion is a good choice.
21. Philadelphia Eagles-Brandon Pettigrew-TE-Oklahoma State- This seems like an obvious choice for the Eagles because L.J. Smith is a shell of his old self and they need to upgrade that position. Pettigrew is huge and will be a great red-zone threat for the Eagles.
22. Minnesota Vikings-Darius Heyward-Bey-WR-Maryland- This one will hurt for us fans in the NFC North because I think Heyward-Bey is a great talent who is a multi-talented player. I love Percy Harvin but the injury problems should scare some teams which is why Heyward-Bey is the answer.
23. New England Patriots-Clay Matthews-DE/OLB-USC-The Patriots have some of the oldest guys on their defense and could use another good player. Vontae Davis could be the answer here as well but Matthews is such an aggressive player who could fit right in with the Pats.
24. Atlanta Falcons-"Ziggy" Hood-DT-Missouri- Hood is a huge guy who is a complete space eater which Atlanta has had in Rod Coleman and Grady Jackson so they are familiar with guys who might need some help keeping their weight.
25. Miami Dolphins-Larry English-DE-Northern Illinois- The Dolphins have been toying with the idea of bringing Jason Taylor back but they should just go this route taking English. Very athletic guy that could help out a 3-4 system.
26. Baltimore Ravens-Percy Harvin-WR-Florida- This would be a perfect fit for the Ravens and Heyward-Bey would work here too. Harvin is a game breaker who can deliver for any team but like I said before, he needs to learn how to fight the injury bug.
27. Indianapolis Colts-James Laurinaitis-OLB-Ohio State- He is an under size guy who would fit the attitude with the Colts and would be a very good special-teams player in the first year then move on to the starting lineup. Although I could see them trading up for Peria Jerry or Ziggy Hood.
28. Buffalo Bills-William Beatty-OL-Conneticutt- The Bills need an offensive lineman after trading Jason Peters last weekend which was a great deal for Buffalo because he is getting old and gave up a ton of sacks last year.
29. New York Giants-Hakeem Nicks-WR-North Carolina- If they dont trade for Anquan Boldin, or Braylon Edwards, they will go for a wide out who according to me two are already gone and Nicks is the next best option. He is a complete freak who could immediately have an impact for the Giants.
30. Tennessee Titans-Darius Butler-CB-Connecticut- The Huskies get on the board twice only because there arent a wide receiver on the board worth taking therefore I could see the Titans trading up or down to get a receiver to help out their offense.
31. Arizona Cardinals-Knowshon Moreno-RB-Georgia- I dont think Moreno will go this far down especially since the Eagles are expressing interest in him. This would be a great thing for the Cardinals to have a new running back with Edergin James who I believe is washed-up
32. Pittsburgh Steelers-Max Unger-C-Oregon- The Steelers need a center and Unger is probably the best choice here although they could go with Evan Wood from Louisville as well. No matter what the Steelers always have a good draft.
There it is, I am hoping for 11 out of 32.
-Charlie.
17. New York Jets-Josh Freeman-QB-Kansas State- I dont know if this will be the move made but the Jets would like to make a statement like always and Freeman would be answer. He has great size but he has been up/down plus a guy I know who watches more Big 12 than me says Freeman is horrible. Its worth the risk for the Jets.
18. Denver Broncos-Rey Maualuga-OLB-USC- The Broncos struggled so much on defense that it only seems logical for them to have the first two picks on the defense. Rey Rey will be an awesome player in the NFL and could do many big things for Denver next year right away. This will be a fantastic pick for Denver.
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Peria Jerry-DT-Mississippi- This is a guy whose stock has raised in the past couple of weeks and people have talked how much the Bucs love Freeman so they could be moving up to the 15-17 range to land Freeman. They could use a defensive tackle as well.
20. Detroit Lions-Eben Brittion-OT-Arizona- They could go defense here but I think if the Lions want to rebuild which they obviously need to do then its logical to add an offensive lineman here and Brittion is a good choice.
21. Philadelphia Eagles-Brandon Pettigrew-TE-Oklahoma State- This seems like an obvious choice for the Eagles because L.J. Smith is a shell of his old self and they need to upgrade that position. Pettigrew is huge and will be a great red-zone threat for the Eagles.
22. Minnesota Vikings-Darius Heyward-Bey-WR-Maryland- This one will hurt for us fans in the NFC North because I think Heyward-Bey is a great talent who is a multi-talented player. I love Percy Harvin but the injury problems should scare some teams which is why Heyward-Bey is the answer.
23. New England Patriots-Clay Matthews-DE/OLB-USC-The Patriots have some of the oldest guys on their defense and could use another good player. Vontae Davis could be the answer here as well but Matthews is such an aggressive player who could fit right in with the Pats.
24. Atlanta Falcons-"Ziggy" Hood-DT-Missouri- Hood is a huge guy who is a complete space eater which Atlanta has had in Rod Coleman and Grady Jackson so they are familiar with guys who might need some help keeping their weight.
25. Miami Dolphins-Larry English-DE-Northern Illinois- The Dolphins have been toying with the idea of bringing Jason Taylor back but they should just go this route taking English. Very athletic guy that could help out a 3-4 system.
26. Baltimore Ravens-Percy Harvin-WR-Florida- This would be a perfect fit for the Ravens and Heyward-Bey would work here too. Harvin is a game breaker who can deliver for any team but like I said before, he needs to learn how to fight the injury bug.
27. Indianapolis Colts-James Laurinaitis-OLB-Ohio State- He is an under size guy who would fit the attitude with the Colts and would be a very good special-teams player in the first year then move on to the starting lineup. Although I could see them trading up for Peria Jerry or Ziggy Hood.
28. Buffalo Bills-William Beatty-OL-Conneticutt- The Bills need an offensive lineman after trading Jason Peters last weekend which was a great deal for Buffalo because he is getting old and gave up a ton of sacks last year.
29. New York Giants-Hakeem Nicks-WR-North Carolina- If they dont trade for Anquan Boldin, or Braylon Edwards, they will go for a wide out who according to me two are already gone and Nicks is the next best option. He is a complete freak who could immediately have an impact for the Giants.
30. Tennessee Titans-Darius Butler-CB-Connecticut- The Huskies get on the board twice only because there arent a wide receiver on the board worth taking therefore I could see the Titans trading up or down to get a receiver to help out their offense.
31. Arizona Cardinals-Knowshon Moreno-RB-Georgia- I dont think Moreno will go this far down especially since the Eagles are expressing interest in him. This would be a great thing for the Cardinals to have a new running back with Edergin James who I believe is washed-up
32. Pittsburgh Steelers-Max Unger-C-Oregon- The Steelers need a center and Unger is probably the best choice here although they could go with Evan Wood from Louisville as well. No matter what the Steelers always have a good draft.
There it is, I am hoping for 11 out of 32.
-Charlie.
Lets Try a Mock Draft
This could be very ugly but I am taking a look at a ton of the mock drafts so I am deciding to try one for myself. Also this is going in with the thought that no one trades up which will happen for Matt Sanchez possibly or anything else.
1. Detroit Lions- Matthew Stafford-QB-Georgia- This guy will be the biggest bust of the draft because he is going to the Lions which will suck for him since they will rush him into the starting role. I was never really impressed with him in college and they were supposed to contend for a national title last year which fell apart. In addition, Mel Kiper sweats his nuts more than Britney Spears' stalker therefore I hope for an epic fail.
2. St. Louis Rams- Jason Smith-OL-Baylor- The last time they went with an offensive lineman in the Top 5, it was Orlando Pace. I could really see this working out for them in the long run with how successful offensive tackles have been in the last couple of years. Smith should be a great talent.
3. Kansas City Chiefs- Aaron Curry-OLB-Wake Forest- Another guy who I think could be stud especially in a 3-4 system. According to all the sources, he had an awesome combine workout as well. Therefore I could see him being Rookie of the Year for sure on an up and coming Chief team.
4. Seattle Seahawks- Eugene Monroe-OL-Virgina- The first three was pretty easy now things becoming interesting. I honestly feel they will not go with Mark Sanchez because Matt Hassleback still has two-three years left on him and the need for Michael Crabtree isnt there with T.J. Hous.....
5. Cleveland Browns- Michael Crabtree-WR-Texas Tech- Some time on Saturday, you will see Braylon Edwards get traded to probably New York in my opinon. Therefore it makes perfect sense for the Browns to get Crabtree. If this happens which I am hoping for so bad because with Joe Thomas, Brady Quinn, and Crabtree will be my favorite AFC team.
6. Cincinnati Bengals- Andre Smith-OL-Alabama- Another great personality for the Bengals to have on the team and I am truly hoping for this because it will be an absolute disaster for all parties. He will be overweight and out of sports in five years or be the next Nate Newton in terms of drug-dealing.
7. Oakland Raiders- Jeremy Maclin-WR-Missouri- I am so sorry Mitch Pratt but its the logical pick for the Raiders if I am thinking like Al Davis (scary thought), not a chance in hell that he takes B.J. Raji which I totally believe they should do at this point. Maclin isnt a bad option though and he will be threat on this young Raider team.
8. Jacksonville Jaguars- B.J. Raji-DT-Boston College- They signed Torry Holt today if you guys care but Raji is a sensible pick for the Jags who need a 3-4 defensive tackle. He is going to be a beast right off the get-go and I am not really worried about the guy hitting the bong a couple times either. Raji will do big things for the Jags.
9. Green Bay Packers- Brian Oropko-DE-Texas- I really hope the Packers keep this pick right now for the love of people trying to kill Ted Thompson. I am convinced if TT trades down, a rebel group of Packer fans will try to hire Jack Bauer to destroy Thompson. Oropko is an absolute freak and was a four-year player for the Longhorns. He is experienced and can flat-out play.
10. San Francisco 49ers- Matt Sanchez-QB-USC- This is the time for Sanchez to go because the Niners need a quarterback and they failed with Alex Smith so they need to redeem themselves. JT O'Sullivan is not the answer for the Niners to have a successful year. Sanchez should be a solid quarterback in the future.
11. Buffalo Bills-Aaron Maybin-OLB/DE-Penn State- Some feel he will go to the Niners but I really believe that Sanchez will go there. Also the Bills need a defensive end and they will have many options with Maybin being the best option.
12. Denver Broncos-Tyson Jackson-DE-LSU- Another team searching for a defensive end and according to Mitch's best friend Todd McShay even if Sanchez is around the twelve spot because they desperately need a defensive end right now. Jackson likes to run his mouth with talking shit on Tim Tebow but still he is a great player.
13. Washington Redskins-Everette Brown-DE-Florida State- I have seen more of Brown than Robert Ayers last year so I will go with Brown to keep the pace with four straight defensive ends. Brown is super quick and will build up their defensive line with Albert Haynesworth.
14. New Orleans Saints-Chris Wells-RB-Ohio State- All of the big guys have Beanie going here which I agree would be an awesome complement for Reggie Bush. It will be a perfect even better thunder/lighting combination than Tennessee's one.
15. Houston Texas-Malcolm Jenkins-CB-Ohio State- Lets keep the Ohio State train running with Jenkins. Many feel that they will trade this pick because none of their needs will be met here. Jenkins for alot of teams from 14-24 could help out with his superb skills, I really like Jenkins around this area.
16. San Diego Chargers-Michael Oher-OT-Mississippi- I could see them going both ways with either Oher who was once a talented prospect who was projected in the top five at one point but very big penalty guy. Brian Cushing could be the other option here but Oher could do well for them.
Part two on the way.
-Charlie.
1. Detroit Lions- Matthew Stafford-QB-Georgia- This guy will be the biggest bust of the draft because he is going to the Lions which will suck for him since they will rush him into the starting role. I was never really impressed with him in college and they were supposed to contend for a national title last year which fell apart. In addition, Mel Kiper sweats his nuts more than Britney Spears' stalker therefore I hope for an epic fail.
2. St. Louis Rams- Jason Smith-OL-Baylor- The last time they went with an offensive lineman in the Top 5, it was Orlando Pace. I could really see this working out for them in the long run with how successful offensive tackles have been in the last couple of years. Smith should be a great talent.
3. Kansas City Chiefs- Aaron Curry-OLB-Wake Forest- Another guy who I think could be stud especially in a 3-4 system. According to all the sources, he had an awesome combine workout as well. Therefore I could see him being Rookie of the Year for sure on an up and coming Chief team.
4. Seattle Seahawks- Eugene Monroe-OL-Virgina- The first three was pretty easy now things becoming interesting. I honestly feel they will not go with Mark Sanchez because Matt Hassleback still has two-three years left on him and the need for Michael Crabtree isnt there with T.J. Hous.....
5. Cleveland Browns- Michael Crabtree-WR-Texas Tech- Some time on Saturday, you will see Braylon Edwards get traded to probably New York in my opinon. Therefore it makes perfect sense for the Browns to get Crabtree. If this happens which I am hoping for so bad because with Joe Thomas, Brady Quinn, and Crabtree will be my favorite AFC team.
6. Cincinnati Bengals- Andre Smith-OL-Alabama- Another great personality for the Bengals to have on the team and I am truly hoping for this because it will be an absolute disaster for all parties. He will be overweight and out of sports in five years or be the next Nate Newton in terms of drug-dealing.
7. Oakland Raiders- Jeremy Maclin-WR-Missouri- I am so sorry Mitch Pratt but its the logical pick for the Raiders if I am thinking like Al Davis (scary thought), not a chance in hell that he takes B.J. Raji which I totally believe they should do at this point. Maclin isnt a bad option though and he will be threat on this young Raider team.
8. Jacksonville Jaguars- B.J. Raji-DT-Boston College- They signed Torry Holt today if you guys care but Raji is a sensible pick for the Jags who need a 3-4 defensive tackle. He is going to be a beast right off the get-go and I am not really worried about the guy hitting the bong a couple times either. Raji will do big things for the Jags.
9. Green Bay Packers- Brian Oropko-DE-Texas- I really hope the Packers keep this pick right now for the love of people trying to kill Ted Thompson. I am convinced if TT trades down, a rebel group of Packer fans will try to hire Jack Bauer to destroy Thompson. Oropko is an absolute freak and was a four-year player for the Longhorns. He is experienced and can flat-out play.
10. San Francisco 49ers- Matt Sanchez-QB-USC- This is the time for Sanchez to go because the Niners need a quarterback and they failed with Alex Smith so they need to redeem themselves. JT O'Sullivan is not the answer for the Niners to have a successful year. Sanchez should be a solid quarterback in the future.
11. Buffalo Bills-Aaron Maybin-OLB/DE-Penn State- Some feel he will go to the Niners but I really believe that Sanchez will go there. Also the Bills need a defensive end and they will have many options with Maybin being the best option.
12. Denver Broncos-Tyson Jackson-DE-LSU- Another team searching for a defensive end and according to Mitch's best friend Todd McShay even if Sanchez is around the twelve spot because they desperately need a defensive end right now. Jackson likes to run his mouth with talking shit on Tim Tebow but still he is a great player.
13. Washington Redskins-Everette Brown-DE-Florida State- I have seen more of Brown than Robert Ayers last year so I will go with Brown to keep the pace with four straight defensive ends. Brown is super quick and will build up their defensive line with Albert Haynesworth.
14. New Orleans Saints-Chris Wells-RB-Ohio State- All of the big guys have Beanie going here which I agree would be an awesome complement for Reggie Bush. It will be a perfect even better thunder/lighting combination than Tennessee's one.
15. Houston Texas-Malcolm Jenkins-CB-Ohio State- Lets keep the Ohio State train running with Jenkins. Many feel that they will trade this pick because none of their needs will be met here. Jenkins for alot of teams from 14-24 could help out with his superb skills, I really like Jenkins around this area.
16. San Diego Chargers-Michael Oher-OT-Mississippi- I could see them going both ways with either Oher who was once a talented prospect who was projected in the top five at one point but very big penalty guy. Brian Cushing could be the other option here but Oher could do well for them.
Part two on the way.
-Charlie.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Brewers Weekly:Consistency Wanted/Needed
Consistency is something the Brewers have not found yet and its starting to become a concern for people at least who I have talked to. I understand losing a series or two on the road but losing two of them at home is something that shouldnt happen to the Crew.
Monday: I said this last week about Tim Lincecum and will say it again with Edinson Volquez if you get multiple runs on him like 5, you should be able to win the ball game. Instead, the Crew walked the park and Yovani Gallardo had probably his worst start of his professional career.
Tuesday: Manny Parra pitched pretty well albeit giving up three runs but he was unable to get any run support from the offense whose hands were tied by a Brewer Killer Bronson Arroyo. He always seems to get up for the Brewers.
Wednesday: A win! The Brewers get the bats going with a multi-homer game from Mike Cameron whose playing the best in the lineup right now. Also another stellar performance by Rickie Weeks and Braden Looper pitched well once again.
Friday: This one was frustrating after Dave Bush gives up three in the first, the Brewers battle back with Ryan Braun's first homer of the year to give them a 4-3 lead. I didnt agree with Macha going with Mitch Stetter to face Gary Sheffield, I think if we go righty there that homer doesnt happen. Also if the Big Red Nasty could pull his head of his ass that would be awesome.
Saturday: Great pitcher duel between Yo and Johan Santana. I dont really expect much facing Johan and they really did all they could do against arguably the best pitcher in the NL. Then in the 9th, we all got introduce to K-Rod in the National League which is the scariest of thoughts.
Sunday: A good finisher with Jeff Suppan pitching very strong for the Brewers and Kam once again went yard which was a huge homer looking back. Also I love the way Todd Coffey has been playing in the first two weeks and if you see him out of the bullpen, he defines "Comin' in hot."
This week is a rough one heading to Philadelphia which is my least favorite place for the Crew to play then its off to Houston where the Brewers are either really good or really bad there. But hitter-friendly so there's no reason for some of the bats to get going.
-Charlie.
Monday: I said this last week about Tim Lincecum and will say it again with Edinson Volquez if you get multiple runs on him like 5, you should be able to win the ball game. Instead, the Crew walked the park and Yovani Gallardo had probably his worst start of his professional career.
Tuesday: Manny Parra pitched pretty well albeit giving up three runs but he was unable to get any run support from the offense whose hands were tied by a Brewer Killer Bronson Arroyo. He always seems to get up for the Brewers.
Wednesday: A win! The Brewers get the bats going with a multi-homer game from Mike Cameron whose playing the best in the lineup right now. Also another stellar performance by Rickie Weeks and Braden Looper pitched well once again.
Friday: This one was frustrating after Dave Bush gives up three in the first, the Brewers battle back with Ryan Braun's first homer of the year to give them a 4-3 lead. I didnt agree with Macha going with Mitch Stetter to face Gary Sheffield, I think if we go righty there that homer doesnt happen. Also if the Big Red Nasty could pull his head of his ass that would be awesome.
Saturday: Great pitcher duel between Yo and Johan Santana. I dont really expect much facing Johan and they really did all they could do against arguably the best pitcher in the NL. Then in the 9th, we all got introduce to K-Rod in the National League which is the scariest of thoughts.
Sunday: A good finisher with Jeff Suppan pitching very strong for the Brewers and Kam once again went yard which was a huge homer looking back. Also I love the way Todd Coffey has been playing in the first two weeks and if you see him out of the bullpen, he defines "Comin' in hot."
This week is a rough one heading to Philadelphia which is my least favorite place for the Crew to play then its off to Houston where the Brewers are either really good or really bad there. But hitter-friendly so there's no reason for some of the bats to get going.
-Charlie.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Western Conference Playoff Picks
Take a look down if you want information on the East but on to the Western Conference.. you will probably see a couple posts a week about the NBA Playoffs.
(1) Los Angeles Lakers vs. (8) Utah Jazz- These two teams played a pretty good series last year and without Andrew Bynum, they were able to take care of business against Utah. Now they have Bynum back for this playoffs and the Lakers have to be the favorites out of the West. Kobe Bryant has been doing what he needs to do all year long and according to NBA sources, the Jazz are a complete mess right now. Even if with the tough atmosphere in Utah, I think there is no reason to think that the Lakers can take this pretty easily. LOS ANGELES in five.
(4) Portland Trailblazers vs. (5) Houston Rockets- If you didnt know, the Rockets have lost seven straight playoff series pretty much thanks to Tracy McGrady and I have been big on Blazers all year long because I think of them like the Milwaukee Brewers of the NBA with so much great young talent. I love to watch Brandon Roy, Rudy Fernandez, and Greg Oden despite his fouls. Heres the thing that could make this series a quick one is the fact Yao Ming will get beat up by the combination of Oden, LaMarcus Aldridge, and Joel (the Vanilla Gorilla) Pyrsbilla. PORTLAND in five.
(3) San Antonio Spurs vs. (6) Dallas Mavericks- The Spurs are a complete different team than a year before being without Manu Ginobili and I truly believe that Tim Duncan is headed into "Patrick Ewing" range, he looks run down on defense but there is no one to guard Tony Parker on the Mavericks. Although I have hated the Mavs all year long after watching them lose by thirty-one against the Milwaukee Bucks in mid-January and I saw them as a lazy team on defense. Now I watched some of the game on Wednesday night while running and was thoroughly impressed by what I saw out of Dallas. The Mavs score the uspet in a good fashion. DALLAS in six.
(2) Denver Nuggets vs. (7) New Orleans Hornets- The Nuggets have been a completely different team since Chauncey Billups has been on the team and I think Carmelo Anthony is one of the best offensive player in the NBA plus he needs big performances out of J.R. Smith or Kenyon Martin. New Orleans has some injury issues but no one can stop Chris Paul on the Nuggets plus they have James Posey who is one of the most clutch playoff performers. Also not to mention that George Karl has been known to absolutely fall apart as a coach in the playoffs equals a recipe for trouble for Denver fans. This game will head to seven and I will take the underdog once again. NEW ORLEANS in seven.
-Charlie.
(1) Los Angeles Lakers vs. (8) Utah Jazz- These two teams played a pretty good series last year and without Andrew Bynum, they were able to take care of business against Utah. Now they have Bynum back for this playoffs and the Lakers have to be the favorites out of the West. Kobe Bryant has been doing what he needs to do all year long and according to NBA sources, the Jazz are a complete mess right now. Even if with the tough atmosphere in Utah, I think there is no reason to think that the Lakers can take this pretty easily. LOS ANGELES in five.
(4) Portland Trailblazers vs. (5) Houston Rockets- If you didnt know, the Rockets have lost seven straight playoff series pretty much thanks to Tracy McGrady and I have been big on Blazers all year long because I think of them like the Milwaukee Brewers of the NBA with so much great young talent. I love to watch Brandon Roy, Rudy Fernandez, and Greg Oden despite his fouls. Heres the thing that could make this series a quick one is the fact Yao Ming will get beat up by the combination of Oden, LaMarcus Aldridge, and Joel (the Vanilla Gorilla) Pyrsbilla. PORTLAND in five.
(3) San Antonio Spurs vs. (6) Dallas Mavericks- The Spurs are a complete different team than a year before being without Manu Ginobili and I truly believe that Tim Duncan is headed into "Patrick Ewing" range, he looks run down on defense but there is no one to guard Tony Parker on the Mavericks. Although I have hated the Mavs all year long after watching them lose by thirty-one against the Milwaukee Bucks in mid-January and I saw them as a lazy team on defense. Now I watched some of the game on Wednesday night while running and was thoroughly impressed by what I saw out of Dallas. The Mavs score the uspet in a good fashion. DALLAS in six.
(2) Denver Nuggets vs. (7) New Orleans Hornets- The Nuggets have been a completely different team since Chauncey Billups has been on the team and I think Carmelo Anthony is one of the best offensive player in the NBA plus he needs big performances out of J.R. Smith or Kenyon Martin. New Orleans has some injury issues but no one can stop Chris Paul on the Nuggets plus they have James Posey who is one of the most clutch playoff performers. Also not to mention that George Karl has been known to absolutely fall apart as a coach in the playoffs equals a recipe for trouble for Denver fans. This game will head to seven and I will take the underdog once again. NEW ORLEANS in seven.
-Charlie.
NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs Picks
Sorry for being late on this one but I had a lot of stuff this week plus the weather got nice in Eau Claire so I wanted to enjoy that. Here's the East and I will finish the West before I begin to join the outdoors again.
(1) Cleveland Cavaliers vs. (8) Detriot Pistions- Look down the page and see my article about LeBron James if you are curious, like I said in that article LeBron is playing out his mind this year and everyone around him is very successful. The Pistons do have a tough squad but I feel there is no chemistry on that team whatsoever. LeBron had 38 or so today already, the Pistons I think take one. I think its time to give Joe Dumas the boot because we wouldnt be talking about this with Chauncey Billiups. CLEVELAND in Five.
(4) Atlanta Hawks vs. (5) Miami Heat- This is hands down the best series in the East. Most people are taking the Heat because of the play of Dwayne Wade all year but does he have enough around him? Thats a big question mark right there and who on Miami's team will be able to cover Josh Smith? I really couldnt see Jermaine O'Neal being able to keep up with Smith all game long. Al Hortford play has been great down the stretch lately as well. The other thing with the Hawks is a lot of their young guys have been there before unlike Mario Chalmers and Beasley. Heres the thing because of Wade's play, he will carry them in a great series. MIAMI in seven.
(3) Orlando Magic vs. (6) Philadelphia 76ers- This is an awful series that I will probably watch a couple minutes of at best because the only thing exciting about the Magic is Dwight Howard. The thing to watch with Howard is does he have that playoff intensity? He hasnt shown it in the slightest at least last year and if they were to lose, he will be putting himself in Tracy McGrady range. The Magic have enough to get them by the Sixers . ORLANDO in six.
(2) Boston Celtics vs. (7) Chicago Bulls- Another series in the East that I will watch a good amount and I was going to write an article on Kevin Garnett's absence from the playoffs how it will hurt them especially against the Bulls who have a lot of size. Before today's events (Bulls won game 1) , I really like the Bulls who are 14-6 down the stretch and Derrick Rose proved today he isnt afraid of big game atmosphere. If Ray Allen struggles, the Celts are in big time trouble. I believe in Jesus Shuttlesworth and believe the Celtics will rite this ship. BOSTON in seven.
On to the Western Conference
-Charlie.
(1) Cleveland Cavaliers vs. (8) Detriot Pistions- Look down the page and see my article about LeBron James if you are curious, like I said in that article LeBron is playing out his mind this year and everyone around him is very successful. The Pistons do have a tough squad but I feel there is no chemistry on that team whatsoever. LeBron had 38 or so today already, the Pistons I think take one. I think its time to give Joe Dumas the boot because we wouldnt be talking about this with Chauncey Billiups. CLEVELAND in Five.
(4) Atlanta Hawks vs. (5) Miami Heat- This is hands down the best series in the East. Most people are taking the Heat because of the play of Dwayne Wade all year but does he have enough around him? Thats a big question mark right there and who on Miami's team will be able to cover Josh Smith? I really couldnt see Jermaine O'Neal being able to keep up with Smith all game long. Al Hortford play has been great down the stretch lately as well. The other thing with the Hawks is a lot of their young guys have been there before unlike Mario Chalmers and Beasley. Heres the thing because of Wade's play, he will carry them in a great series. MIAMI in seven.
(3) Orlando Magic vs. (6) Philadelphia 76ers- This is an awful series that I will probably watch a couple minutes of at best because the only thing exciting about the Magic is Dwight Howard. The thing to watch with Howard is does he have that playoff intensity? He hasnt shown it in the slightest at least last year and if they were to lose, he will be putting himself in Tracy McGrady range. The Magic have enough to get them by the Sixers . ORLANDO in six.
(2) Boston Celtics vs. (7) Chicago Bulls- Another series in the East that I will watch a good amount and I was going to write an article on Kevin Garnett's absence from the playoffs how it will hurt them especially against the Bulls who have a lot of size. Before today's events (Bulls won game 1) , I really like the Bulls who are 14-6 down the stretch and Derrick Rose proved today he isnt afraid of big game atmosphere. If Ray Allen struggles, the Celts are in big time trouble. I believe in Jesus Shuttlesworth and believe the Celtics will rite this ship. BOSTON in seven.
On to the Western Conference
-Charlie.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Brett Boyer Save This Article (the LBJ Lovefest)
Brett before I get going I would hope that you will save this article because I am going to give a ton of love for LeBron James for really the first time in my career as a blogger and overall. To give you a backdrop of why this all relevant, anyone including the single room's guys girlfriend we argue vehemently about whose better LeBron or Kobe? I have always been a dedicated Team Kobe guy but honestly, the torch is finally passed. LeBron is the better player.
There is no reason why LeBron James shouldnt win MVP this year. He led his team to a 39-2 record at home which is unbelievable and I really believe he feeds off the crowd reactions whether its his thunderdunks or a big three pointer. James has excelled in two places where I was always critical of him... 1. He can shoot the three with the best of them, no more LeBrick and 2. He is a great defender, he knows when to pick the pass off and can stop the dribble/drive better than most guys in the NBA right now.
The other thing that impressed me about LeBron season is he the fourth guy to lead his team in scoring, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. Are you kidding me? Thats unreal for any player in the NBA and that is how you get talks about being the next "MJ"
Speaking of MJ, he does remind of Jordan in the sense he makes his team so much better. They have alot of guys on that team who are average players but because of LeBron they are two times the better player. Without LBJ, they are a 17 win team at best.
Here is the scary part, this is tough to write but... LeBron is growing on me. I absolutely love the charisma he brings night in and night out to the arena making everyone excited to see what he does next. In addition to that, LeBron looks like he is just playing at the local gym every night with a huge smile on his face. Thats something a few players have.
Will I be cheering for LeBron? Somewhat. I would love to see Kobe versus LeBron in the Finals but when it the chips are down, I am still apart of Team Kobe, just one of the realists.
-Charlie.
There is no reason why LeBron James shouldnt win MVP this year. He led his team to a 39-2 record at home which is unbelievable and I really believe he feeds off the crowd reactions whether its his thunderdunks or a big three pointer. James has excelled in two places where I was always critical of him... 1. He can shoot the three with the best of them, no more LeBrick and 2. He is a great defender, he knows when to pick the pass off and can stop the dribble/drive better than most guys in the NBA right now.
The other thing that impressed me about LeBron season is he the fourth guy to lead his team in scoring, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. Are you kidding me? Thats unreal for any player in the NBA and that is how you get talks about being the next "MJ"
Speaking of MJ, he does remind of Jordan in the sense he makes his team so much better. They have alot of guys on that team who are average players but because of LeBron they are two times the better player. Without LBJ, they are a 17 win team at best.
Here is the scary part, this is tough to write but... LeBron is growing on me. I absolutely love the charisma he brings night in and night out to the arena making everyone excited to see what he does next. In addition to that, LeBron looks like he is just playing at the local gym every night with a huge smile on his face. Thats something a few players have.
Will I be cheering for LeBron? Somewhat. I would love to see Kobe versus LeBron in the Finals but when it the chips are down, I am still apart of Team Kobe, just one of the realists.
-Charlie.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Golf in the Olympics? Yes Please.
I know what probably 7 out of my 20 readers are probably are saying... "Why are you talking so much about golf lately?" Well it just keeps popping up and I feel these are necessary articles.
Tiger Woods, Padraig Harrington, Sergio Garcia, and Vijay Singh all top twenty golfers in the world have made their pitch to add the game of golf to the Olympics. In my opinion, that would be a fantastic idea and you could expand it to having a team tournament in week one of the Olympics at one golf course and an individual tournament in week 2.
Here's how I see it... For team play, they can either be foursomes or twosomes of the best golfers in that country fighting it out and maybe they wont be the best players because obviously you have to first qualify to represent your country like most Olympic sports. Think about this... USA-Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson.. all goes well that happens. Spain- Serigo Gracia and Miguel Angel Jimenez, Sweden- Henrik Stentson and Robert Karlsson, England- Paul Casey and Justin Rose.
Then the next week at the Olympics, it would be an indiviual tournament that has qualifying where the thirty-two players make it and sixteen are cut on Friday therefore its a sixteen team tournament to decide who wins the gold medal. I mean it would be great to see a USA sweep but I highly doubt that would happened. In addition, I hate Singh but how great would it be to see Fiji win some sort of medal in the Olympics.
I honestly think there is a lot of promise and I hope the IOC follows through on this.
-Charlie.
Tiger Woods, Padraig Harrington, Sergio Garcia, and Vijay Singh all top twenty golfers in the world have made their pitch to add the game of golf to the Olympics. In my opinion, that would be a fantastic idea and you could expand it to having a team tournament in week one of the Olympics at one golf course and an individual tournament in week 2.
Here's how I see it... For team play, they can either be foursomes or twosomes of the best golfers in that country fighting it out and maybe they wont be the best players because obviously you have to first qualify to represent your country like most Olympic sports. Think about this... USA-Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson.. all goes well that happens. Spain- Serigo Gracia and Miguel Angel Jimenez, Sweden- Henrik Stentson and Robert Karlsson, England- Paul Casey and Justin Rose.
Then the next week at the Olympics, it would be an indiviual tournament that has qualifying where the thirty-two players make it and sixteen are cut on Friday therefore its a sixteen team tournament to decide who wins the gold medal. I mean it would be great to see a USA sweep but I highly doubt that would happened. In addition, I hate Singh but how great would it be to see Fiji win some sort of medal in the Olympics.
I honestly think there is a lot of promise and I hope the IOC follows through on this.
-Charlie.
What the Hell?
In this addition of What the Hell which you will see from time to time on this blog but it has returned it two sports stories from the weird in the last couple of days... Greg Paulus reportedly working out for the Green Bay Packers and Isiah Thomas, the new coach of Florida International.
First we will start with the flopping machine that is Greg Paulus now trying his hand at football after four years ago deciding to go play point guard for Duke instead of playing quarterback for Notre Dame or Miami. First off on the 1-10 hilarous scale, how funny would it be to here Greg Paulus on the 7th floor crew track? I think about a 12. At that time, I would have went to Duke to play point guard because of the history of that position... Bobby Hurley, Steve Wojohowski, and Trajan Langdon just to name a few. His former coach said he would need to put on thirty pounds of muscle to be a good quarterback and now there are reports the Duke coach told him to go out for Wide Receiver which he has good size/speed. I will not be shocked if Paulus gets pick in the 6th or 7th round. Just a reminder, Antonio Gates was a basketball player too at Kent State.
Now on to the true What the Hell moment. Isiah Thomas found a coaching job and he is giving his first year of his contract to the Florida International athletics. I am still wondering if this is a smart move to let a guy who ran a franchise into the dirt in the NBA now to have him coach for a hopeless Panthers team. This seems like a bad Disney movie where Thomas brings this team out of nowhere and has success in the college coaching ranks. Also if Thomas were to rebuild this program, I have 2 to 1 odds saying he will be gone once the program starts. He wants a fresh start but still Thomas is a lunatic. People will want to play for Thomas but still he is a nut job.
-Charlie.
First we will start with the flopping machine that is Greg Paulus now trying his hand at football after four years ago deciding to go play point guard for Duke instead of playing quarterback for Notre Dame or Miami. First off on the 1-10 hilarous scale, how funny would it be to here Greg Paulus on the 7th floor crew track? I think about a 12. At that time, I would have went to Duke to play point guard because of the history of that position... Bobby Hurley, Steve Wojohowski, and Trajan Langdon just to name a few. His former coach said he would need to put on thirty pounds of muscle to be a good quarterback and now there are reports the Duke coach told him to go out for Wide Receiver which he has good size/speed. I will not be shocked if Paulus gets pick in the 6th or 7th round. Just a reminder, Antonio Gates was a basketball player too at Kent State.
Now on to the true What the Hell moment. Isiah Thomas found a coaching job and he is giving his first year of his contract to the Florida International athletics. I am still wondering if this is a smart move to let a guy who ran a franchise into the dirt in the NBA now to have him coach for a hopeless Panthers team. This seems like a bad Disney movie where Thomas brings this team out of nowhere and has success in the college coaching ranks. Also if Thomas were to rebuild this program, I have 2 to 1 odds saying he will be gone once the program starts. He wants a fresh start but still Thomas is a lunatic. People will want to play for Thomas but still he is a nut job.
-Charlie.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Brewers Weekly: In Need of some Good Soup
There will usually be some sort of theme on Brewers Weekly and this week we are going to look at Jeff Suppan. Now the "causal" or the "instant gratification" fan believes that we could just cut Soup and not deal with any of his money, thats wrong we cannot do that. Although I firmly believe change has to happen when a pitcher has given up a home run in 12 straight appearances so I hope that Doug Melvin gives him the "Eric Gagne" treatment by giving him about a month and half to figure his shit out, if that doesnt happen then he is banished to the bullpen.
Alright now for just quick thoughts on all the games this week....
Tuesday: Opening Day for me is about as exciting as anything in my boring day-to-day life. Then the sole fact we going up against the Cy Young Tim Linecum, I really wanted the Brewers to do well. I told Pratt who has a man crush on Tim, that he looks like a twelve year old girl with his longer hair now, no response from the great Mitch. Speaking of him, he wrote a pretty nice column on the game which sums it up but he does act like we got beat 20-2. The pitching just wasnt there but many positives.
Wednesday: The real ace of the staff Yovani Gallardo took the hill that night and looked superb in his six and a third inning of work. He also hit a three-run blast off Randy Johnson who looked good at his age mowing down Brewers left and right. The strikeouts were a problem all week for the Brewers and I hope by facing lesser pitching those numbers will decrease. Also Mike Cameron had a great series seeing pitches and getting a homer in this one.
Thursday: I was watching my sister play soccer but according to people I talked to, Manny Parra didnt really have his best stuff nor did the Brewers offense which only could muster four hits. My dad feels this season depends on how good Parra is and I agree with that completely. If Parra is a 12-15 game winner, we are very successful.
Friday: Read my running blog (I will link it later, I am on a library computer that sucks but for now look down the page) for the thoughts on that game. I did forget that Doz did the Stone Cold Salute to the crowd after the win which was epic to say the least.
Saturday: I know there are many of you out there who hate Dave Bush and honestly I do not know why. He pitched a consistent ball game on Saturday against the Cubs albeit I felt Manager Ken Macha should have pulled him a batter or two earlier, I still like what Bush brought to the table. The Crew was done in by some bad calls by various umpires, the awful decision not to send Corey Hart in the first inning on Prince's double especially after Milton Bradley awful throw. The Soriano homer was something we as Brewers fans should grow custom to since he kills the Brewers in Miller Park.
Sunday: Didnt watch much of this game but the "genius" Joe Morgan told me that the Brewers basically walk the park to lose this game. That cannot happen if its game 6 or game 134; there are alot of things I let slide but walks are not one of them. Then Reed Johnson is the Asshole of the Year so far for that robbery of Prince's grand slam in the sixth which would of tied the game.
-Lets hope for better win as the Crew takes on the Reds at home, then to New York to play the Mets.
-Charlie.
Alright now for just quick thoughts on all the games this week....
Tuesday: Opening Day for me is about as exciting as anything in my boring day-to-day life. Then the sole fact we going up against the Cy Young Tim Linecum, I really wanted the Brewers to do well. I told Pratt who has a man crush on Tim, that he looks like a twelve year old girl with his longer hair now, no response from the great Mitch. Speaking of him, he wrote a pretty nice column on the game which sums it up but he does act like we got beat 20-2. The pitching just wasnt there but many positives.
Wednesday: The real ace of the staff Yovani Gallardo took the hill that night and looked superb in his six and a third inning of work. He also hit a three-run blast off Randy Johnson who looked good at his age mowing down Brewers left and right. The strikeouts were a problem all week for the Brewers and I hope by facing lesser pitching those numbers will decrease. Also Mike Cameron had a great series seeing pitches and getting a homer in this one.
Thursday: I was watching my sister play soccer but according to people I talked to, Manny Parra didnt really have his best stuff nor did the Brewers offense which only could muster four hits. My dad feels this season depends on how good Parra is and I agree with that completely. If Parra is a 12-15 game winner, we are very successful.
Friday: Read my running blog (I will link it later, I am on a library computer that sucks but for now look down the page) for the thoughts on that game. I did forget that Doz did the Stone Cold Salute to the crowd after the win which was epic to say the least.
Saturday: I know there are many of you out there who hate Dave Bush and honestly I do not know why. He pitched a consistent ball game on Saturday against the Cubs albeit I felt Manager Ken Macha should have pulled him a batter or two earlier, I still like what Bush brought to the table. The Crew was done in by some bad calls by various umpires, the awful decision not to send Corey Hart in the first inning on Prince's double especially after Milton Bradley awful throw. The Soriano homer was something we as Brewers fans should grow custom to since he kills the Brewers in Miller Park.
Sunday: Didnt watch much of this game but the "genius" Joe Morgan told me that the Brewers basically walk the park to lose this game. That cannot happen if its game 6 or game 134; there are alot of things I let slide but walks are not one of them. Then Reed Johnson is the Asshole of the Year so far for that robbery of Prince's grand slam in the sixth which would of tied the game.
-Lets hope for better win as the Crew takes on the Reds at home, then to New York to play the Mets.
-Charlie.
El Pato Takes the Green Jacket
First off before I begin, nothing is worse than having to drive back to school on arguably one of the best days of the year, the final day of Masters competition and I am sadden I missed the ending to this one.
The 2009 Masters I think could be summed up by using the words of "Looked like professionals out there." Because in the last two-three years, the course has been so hard that you would see guys put up all sorts of crooked numbers and still be in contention somewhat. Therefore I was happy to see that for sure.
I think that Sunday is right up there not to par with 86, or the Norman Choke because you have a guy who chokes (see below) and you had the 1-2 top players of the world challenging each other on every hole. Phil Mickelson played out his mind and still found ways to screw things up in classic fashion so he will wonder what could have been? Tiger Woods just never had it, he muscled so much to get back in contention but he didnt have it in him to win it all this year.
The other thing that I feel this year's Masters will be remembered by is the choke of Kenny Perry. He was up two shots with two holes to go and he had at one time eleven straight pars to start off the day. All he needed was two more pars and he didnt do it. He bogeyed 17th and 18th to force a playoff between him, Angel Cabrera, and Chad Campbell. The advantage immediately swung towards Cabrera who has a US Open title already to his name.
El Pato or the Duck if you dont speak Spanish took control and was able to win his first Green Jacket on the second hole of the playoffs. Cabrera I must say is a classy dude who we as golf fans dont hear much about because he plays the European circuit. In addition, you always like to see your home country do well and for the two United States golfers that couldnt get it done late well that is a shame.
Now we wait two months or so for the US Open.
-Charlie.
The 2009 Masters I think could be summed up by using the words of "Looked like professionals out there." Because in the last two-three years, the course has been so hard that you would see guys put up all sorts of crooked numbers and still be in contention somewhat. Therefore I was happy to see that for sure.
I think that Sunday is right up there not to par with 86, or the Norman Choke because you have a guy who chokes (see below) and you had the 1-2 top players of the world challenging each other on every hole. Phil Mickelson played out his mind and still found ways to screw things up in classic fashion so he will wonder what could have been? Tiger Woods just never had it, he muscled so much to get back in contention but he didnt have it in him to win it all this year.
The other thing that I feel this year's Masters will be remembered by is the choke of Kenny Perry. He was up two shots with two holes to go and he had at one time eleven straight pars to start off the day. All he needed was two more pars and he didnt do it. He bogeyed 17th and 18th to force a playoff between him, Angel Cabrera, and Chad Campbell. The advantage immediately swung towards Cabrera who has a US Open title already to his name.
El Pato or the Duck if you dont speak Spanish took control and was able to win his first Green Jacket on the second hole of the playoffs. Cabrera I must say is a classy dude who we as golf fans dont hear much about because he plays the European circuit. In addition, you always like to see your home country do well and for the two United States golfers that couldnt get it done late well that is a shame.
Now we wait two months or so for the US Open.
-Charlie.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Running Blog of Opening Day
I figure its only fair that I like the fans of Chuck's Corner experience my Opening Day trip against the Cubs with Ron, Doz, Steve, Ted, and Ted's friends.
11:40- I arrive at Doz's house with a gym bag full of drinks and mixers ready for the long day ahead of us.
11:45- Doz as always happy to see me and even happy when I show him what my mom bought for us-Fritos, Wavys Ruffles, and French Onion Dip.
11:50-We pack the car like migrant workers in California and start our journey to Miller Park as I said "Fuck the Cubs" in leaving the house, I knew it would be a good day.
12:00-"Born to Run" is the CD of choice for the trip and Ted's friend Joe believes that the song "Ten Avenue Freeze Out" is actually "Tell the Devil to Freeze Out." Ted and I laugh in astonishment of this and keep playing the song.
12:20-After meeting up with Ted's friends, we are in line to start our tailgate when we notice some great looking girls in the BMW figuring they are pretty rich
12:22-Ted is calling his friends in front of us to get the prospects of the girls in the beamer. Its looking good at this point
12:23- The Beamer girls are turned away with no parking pass, damn you Brewers. Ted tells the guy "Thanks for fucking up the day."
12:40-The grill gets going, Springsteen is still going strong and Suds team is starting to get going. Doz challenges Joe to a drinking duel only to get turned down, Doz is disappointed.
12:50-I start off small with a hot dog with secret sauce although I went with too much sauce with some ending up on Joe's sweatshirt. He doesnt realize and I hope he never did.
1:05- Then we go with a burger and so on, I went on a tour of all meats.... Hot Dogs to Burgers to Brats to Spicy Italians.
1:15- You probably know this if you go to a large tailgate, you find alternate ways to take a piss. Most of our group goes in the back seat in an assortment of beer bottles
1:50- We keep eating and so on with Steve deciding he wanted to take a piss like a normal person going to a port-a potty. Since we have to meet up with some friends, we just decided to go for it.
2:00-The line is monumental. I immediately regret this decision and think about the backseat so much more now. Steve convinces me that this is still a good idea.
2:06-I still think this is a bad idea but we start to complain to some solid looking girls minus the one had a Cub shirt on. Whore.
2:10- Doz cant find Steve and I. This become a problem when I couldnt hear him so I give to phone Steve, he cant hear him, hangs up the phone.
2:15- Still in line, still upset I didnt just go in the back seat. The girls also feel our pain and the guys behind us decided that we should go in pairs to speed up the process. This seems like a great idea at this point. Doz is still nowhere to be seen.
2:19-Getting closer and Doz finds us, also decides he has to go so he skips around 12-14 people behind me, just glorious. Doz also becomes aware of the doubling up idea and thinks we should do this. I tell him its a horrible idea.
2:25-A breakthrough, I get to go to the bathroom finally and it felt amazing.
2:34- We go to meet up with our friends with Doz always thinking we take a couple of road beers for the trip over. I slam two very quick and believe we are off.
2:36- I tell the guys I feel like I might be seeing my lunch so I will find them later. Note to everyone dont believe anyone if they told you I puked. Just a large burp really.
2:45- Find our friends, good to see them and we make small talk before we head into the ballpark.
3:15- The game begins and Doz said something along the lines of "Well boys this is it. Lets have a good one today." As he says that Weeks gets on with an error.
3:30- Run scores so we find our seats where Ron is patiently waiting for us.
3:55- The God of the Brewers Corey Hart jacks a solo bomb off Mr. Injury Rich Harden. 2-0 Crew. I almost fell off the railing after this homer, the blood plus the alcohol rushing to my head just wasnt a good feeling.
4:05- The Monopoly man Milton Bradley hits a solo shot in response. This is disheartening to say the least.
4:23- Doz wants food. This is a must to keep the bear happy. He asks me to go halfsies on some nuts. This is a great idea by Doz and we embark on our journey.
4:30- After looking for various restrooms to go before we divulged on the Heavenly Roasted Nuts. We find one and then find the Nut shop. We go with the large combo which features almond, pecan, and cashews.
4:34-We get back to our seats and change seating arrangements so we can enjoy the feast. Doz rates 1. Pecan 2. Cashew 3. Almond. I go with 1. Cashew 2. Pecan 3. Almond
5:05- Koyie Hill hits two run homer off Big Red Nasty. Not good at all when the guy bats like he is in Little League.
5:52- As we head to the 9th, Steve decides that we need to change to the original seats because the Brewers were winning in those seats, this is a brilliant idea.
5:58- Chris Duffy gets on base, Steve might be on to something
6:00- Rickie Weeks hits a base clearing double. STEVE IS A GENIUS. Just like that Kevin Gregg blows another one and the Brewers are tied up.
6:05- Corey Hart gets a walk but during that a wild pitch happens where Weeks takes third. Steve couldnt have been more right at this point.
6:08- Then Ryan Braun hits a grounder that deep enough to get Rickie home. We are in a frenzy, Ron begins to hug the Mexican from the Jimmy Kimmel show.
6:13-As we leave, multiple "Lets Go Brewers" and "Fuck the Cubbies" were going on and we were loving every minute of it.
6:24- Make it back to the car and Springsteen is still going strong as we have a few victory beers before the DD takes us back home.
All in all a successful Opening Day.
-Charlie.
11:40- I arrive at Doz's house with a gym bag full of drinks and mixers ready for the long day ahead of us.
11:45- Doz as always happy to see me and even happy when I show him what my mom bought for us-Fritos, Wavys Ruffles, and French Onion Dip.
11:50-We pack the car like migrant workers in California and start our journey to Miller Park as I said "Fuck the Cubs" in leaving the house, I knew it would be a good day.
12:00-"Born to Run" is the CD of choice for the trip and Ted's friend Joe believes that the song "Ten Avenue Freeze Out" is actually "Tell the Devil to Freeze Out." Ted and I laugh in astonishment of this and keep playing the song.
12:20-After meeting up with Ted's friends, we are in line to start our tailgate when we notice some great looking girls in the BMW figuring they are pretty rich
12:22-Ted is calling his friends in front of us to get the prospects of the girls in the beamer. Its looking good at this point
12:23- The Beamer girls are turned away with no parking pass, damn you Brewers. Ted tells the guy "Thanks for fucking up the day."
12:40-The grill gets going, Springsteen is still going strong and Suds team is starting to get going. Doz challenges Joe to a drinking duel only to get turned down, Doz is disappointed.
12:50-I start off small with a hot dog with secret sauce although I went with too much sauce with some ending up on Joe's sweatshirt. He doesnt realize and I hope he never did.
1:05- Then we go with a burger and so on, I went on a tour of all meats.... Hot Dogs to Burgers to Brats to Spicy Italians.
1:15- You probably know this if you go to a large tailgate, you find alternate ways to take a piss. Most of our group goes in the back seat in an assortment of beer bottles
1:50- We keep eating and so on with Steve deciding he wanted to take a piss like a normal person going to a port-a potty. Since we have to meet up with some friends, we just decided to go for it.
2:00-The line is monumental. I immediately regret this decision and think about the backseat so much more now. Steve convinces me that this is still a good idea.
2:06-I still think this is a bad idea but we start to complain to some solid looking girls minus the one had a Cub shirt on. Whore.
2:10- Doz cant find Steve and I. This become a problem when I couldnt hear him so I give to phone Steve, he cant hear him, hangs up the phone.
2:15- Still in line, still upset I didnt just go in the back seat. The girls also feel our pain and the guys behind us decided that we should go in pairs to speed up the process. This seems like a great idea at this point. Doz is still nowhere to be seen.
2:19-Getting closer and Doz finds us, also decides he has to go so he skips around 12-14 people behind me, just glorious. Doz also becomes aware of the doubling up idea and thinks we should do this. I tell him its a horrible idea.
2:25-A breakthrough, I get to go to the bathroom finally and it felt amazing.
2:34- We go to meet up with our friends with Doz always thinking we take a couple of road beers for the trip over. I slam two very quick and believe we are off.
2:36- I tell the guys I feel like I might be seeing my lunch so I will find them later. Note to everyone dont believe anyone if they told you I puked. Just a large burp really.
2:45- Find our friends, good to see them and we make small talk before we head into the ballpark.
3:15- The game begins and Doz said something along the lines of "Well boys this is it. Lets have a good one today." As he says that Weeks gets on with an error.
3:30- Run scores so we find our seats where Ron is patiently waiting for us.
3:55- The God of the Brewers Corey Hart jacks a solo bomb off Mr. Injury Rich Harden. 2-0 Crew. I almost fell off the railing after this homer, the blood plus the alcohol rushing to my head just wasnt a good feeling.
4:05- The Monopoly man Milton Bradley hits a solo shot in response. This is disheartening to say the least.
4:23- Doz wants food. This is a must to keep the bear happy. He asks me to go halfsies on some nuts. This is a great idea by Doz and we embark on our journey.
4:30- After looking for various restrooms to go before we divulged on the Heavenly Roasted Nuts. We find one and then find the Nut shop. We go with the large combo which features almond, pecan, and cashews.
4:34-We get back to our seats and change seating arrangements so we can enjoy the feast. Doz rates 1. Pecan 2. Cashew 3. Almond. I go with 1. Cashew 2. Pecan 3. Almond
5:05- Koyie Hill hits two run homer off Big Red Nasty. Not good at all when the guy bats like he is in Little League.
5:52- As we head to the 9th, Steve decides that we need to change to the original seats because the Brewers were winning in those seats, this is a brilliant idea.
5:58- Chris Duffy gets on base, Steve might be on to something
6:00- Rickie Weeks hits a base clearing double. STEVE IS A GENIUS. Just like that Kevin Gregg blows another one and the Brewers are tied up.
6:05- Corey Hart gets a walk but during that a wild pitch happens where Weeks takes third. Steve couldnt have been more right at this point.
6:08- Then Ryan Braun hits a grounder that deep enough to get Rickie home. We are in a frenzy, Ron begins to hug the Mexican from the Jimmy Kimmel show.
6:13-As we leave, multiple "Lets Go Brewers" and "Fuck the Cubbies" were going on and we were loving every minute of it.
6:24- Make it back to the car and Springsteen is still going strong as we have a few victory beers before the DD takes us back home.
All in all a successful Opening Day.
-Charlie.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
R.I.P. Nick Adenhart
What a terrible tradegy it was when Nick Adenhart's life was taken from us on early Thursday April 9th.
You know a lot of coaches say "Play every game like its last." This honestly was the last game that Adenhart will ever play in after pitching six scoreless innings in a no-decision game against the Athletics. I have no idea what it must be like for the guys in the Angles clubhouse to lose a teammate instantly. I cannot even comprehend what that would be like.
The other thing I would just like to say is that I hope drunken driving rules get tighter because this guy had a suspended license from a previous drunk driving and now he kills three guys? I hope that throw the book at this guy.
RIP Nick Adenhart.
-Charlie.
You know a lot of coaches say "Play every game like its last." This honestly was the last game that Adenhart will ever play in after pitching six scoreless innings in a no-decision game against the Athletics. I have no idea what it must be like for the guys in the Angles clubhouse to lose a teammate instantly. I cannot even comprehend what that would be like.
The other thing I would just like to say is that I hope drunken driving rules get tighter because this guy had a suspended license from a previous drunk driving and now he kills three guys? I hope that throw the book at this guy.
RIP Nick Adenhart.
-Charlie.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Masters Predicitions
I know alot of you readers are not big golf fans out there but to me, there arent a lot of better things then watching Sunday at the Masters and for me, its usually with my dad. I still remember on a Saturday watching Tiger nail that chip from 16 which was unreal. So here are my personal top 5 with some thoughts.
1. Tiger Woods- Who else would it be? I think the Bay Hill Tournament proved that he can keep up with the grit and pressure on a final day on his newly repaired knee. I think if Woods has a good first day where he is in the top 10, he will win the tournament. He can ill-afford to leave his putter at him this year as that seems to be the cause of his problems at Augusta.
2. Padraig Harrington- Even though he hasnt had the year that he probably wants, the sole fact that Harrington has won the last two Majors has to mean something. He is a guy who I firmly believed if matched up with Tiger on the final day will not fold. Harrington seems to have ice in his veins when it comes to big moments.
3. Retief Goosen- The Goose hasnt got a Green Jacket yet but could keep it in the South African family with a win this weekend. He has already won this season at the Transitions Championship which is a hard course and he is the type of player that could win the Masters for sure. He is another guy who needs a good first day because he is known to implode if it doesnt happen.
4. Geoff Ogilvy-This is a guy whose playing great golf right now. He has already won a major and knows how to win although he hasnt been in the Major picture in awhile. I expect Ogilvy to contend throughout the weekend and could make a definite push by Sunday.
5. Anthony Kim- This is more of a sleeper pick an I guess according to the odds, he isnt a sleeper but to me Kim is the next great golfer. I love his confidence out there and how he really feels he is the #2 behind Tiger so I think it would be cool if Kim could get it done at the Masters this weekend.
-Charlie.
1. Tiger Woods- Who else would it be? I think the Bay Hill Tournament proved that he can keep up with the grit and pressure on a final day on his newly repaired knee. I think if Woods has a good first day where he is in the top 10, he will win the tournament. He can ill-afford to leave his putter at him this year as that seems to be the cause of his problems at Augusta.
2. Padraig Harrington- Even though he hasnt had the year that he probably wants, the sole fact that Harrington has won the last two Majors has to mean something. He is a guy who I firmly believed if matched up with Tiger on the final day will not fold. Harrington seems to have ice in his veins when it comes to big moments.
3. Retief Goosen- The Goose hasnt got a Green Jacket yet but could keep it in the South African family with a win this weekend. He has already won this season at the Transitions Championship which is a hard course and he is the type of player that could win the Masters for sure. He is another guy who needs a good first day because he is known to implode if it doesnt happen.
4. Geoff Ogilvy-This is a guy whose playing great golf right now. He has already won a major and knows how to win although he hasnt been in the Major picture in awhile. I expect Ogilvy to contend throughout the weekend and could make a definite push by Sunday.
5. Anthony Kim- This is more of a sleeper pick an I guess according to the odds, he isnt a sleeper but to me Kim is the next great golfer. I love his confidence out there and how he really feels he is the #2 behind Tiger so I think it would be cool if Kim could get it done at the Masters this weekend.
-Charlie.
Manu Done for the Year; Spurs Too?
I think its fair to say that the Spurs go as far as Manu Ginobili goes. He is the catalyst of their team and now he is done for the season with a stress fracture in his fibula. As I usually say rut roh.
The Spurs have won the NBA Championship in every off-year since 1999 but that looks very glum now that Ginobili will no longer be playing for the Spurs this year. They are 17-15 this year without Manu and while Roger Mason Jr. is a great energy guy for them; he doesnt do the same things that Ginobili does when he is in the game.
The other thing the Spurs have to worry about is not having home-court for the playoffs with the Western Conference being so tight, they could easily fall to the fifth or sixth position if they struggle. They lost tonight to the Portland Trailblazers, a team chasing the Spurs right now 95-83. They do get some easy games with the Golden State Warriors and the Sacramento Kings although both are on the road. Those two are sandwiched between two tough as nails home games against the Utah Jazz and New Orleans Hornets.
Just as an FYI, I will try to get more NBA stuff as the playoffs approach.
-Charlie.
The Spurs have won the NBA Championship in every off-year since 1999 but that looks very glum now that Ginobili will no longer be playing for the Spurs this year. They are 17-15 this year without Manu and while Roger Mason Jr. is a great energy guy for them; he doesnt do the same things that Ginobili does when he is in the game.
The other thing the Spurs have to worry about is not having home-court for the playoffs with the Western Conference being so tight, they could easily fall to the fifth or sixth position if they struggle. They lost tonight to the Portland Trailblazers, a team chasing the Spurs right now 95-83. They do get some easy games with the Golden State Warriors and the Sacramento Kings although both are on the road. Those two are sandwiched between two tough as nails home games against the Utah Jazz and New Orleans Hornets.
Just as an FYI, I will try to get more NBA stuff as the playoffs approach.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
It's Miller Time in Arizona
Sean Miller had a change of heart.
He decided that it was time to take the next step in his coaching career and move on to the Arizona Wildcats only a day after he told Arizona no thanks. I think this is a great decision by the Wildcats and I would consider a definite upgrade from their original choice of Tim Floyd.
Unfortunately for Miller, he will be without Chase Bundinger and Jordan Hill who both decided to hire agents to go to the NBA. Also Nic Wise said he would "test the waters" but most people believe that Wise will be back for next season. He doesnt have much to work with after that so it definitely could be a year or two before the Cats get on the rise again.
I personally think Miller can do it just like the others that have came before him at Xavier. Starting off with Pete Gillian who was very successful at Providence, not so much at Virgina, then the late Skip Prosser who did a great job at Wake Forest and finally Thad Matta who has done a great job not only recruiting also winning at Ohio State.
For Xavier fans out there, I really feel by now most of them realize that their school is a great basketball school but it hasnt become a Memphis-like school where the head coach will only take a once in a lifetime offer like John Calipari at Kentucky. I dont know what it will take for Xavier to go to that next level but I am convinced it could happen.
-Charlie.
He decided that it was time to take the next step in his coaching career and move on to the Arizona Wildcats only a day after he told Arizona no thanks. I think this is a great decision by the Wildcats and I would consider a definite upgrade from their original choice of Tim Floyd.
Unfortunately for Miller, he will be without Chase Bundinger and Jordan Hill who both decided to hire agents to go to the NBA. Also Nic Wise said he would "test the waters" but most people believe that Wise will be back for next season. He doesnt have much to work with after that so it definitely could be a year or two before the Cats get on the rise again.
I personally think Miller can do it just like the others that have came before him at Xavier. Starting off with Pete Gillian who was very successful at Providence, not so much at Virgina, then the late Skip Prosser who did a great job at Wake Forest and finally Thad Matta who has done a great job not only recruiting also winning at Ohio State.
For Xavier fans out there, I really feel by now most of them realize that their school is a great basketball school but it hasnt become a Memphis-like school where the head coach will only take a once in a lifetime offer like John Calipari at Kentucky. I dont know what it will take for Xavier to go to that next level but I am convinced it could happen.
-Charlie.
I am an Idiot
Silly Chuck.
I should have realized that a Big Ten would fail to show up when they are "trying to do it for Detroit." Which became the most nauseating thing watching all of the pre-game coverage or the rehashing of Magic Johnson-Larry Bird which has been on overkill since the NBA Finals last year.
I told someone that I would rather have no Big East team in the final than put an embarrassment like that. They looked scared the entire game and they couldnt stop the three point shooters especially Wayne Ellington who was making it rain more than PacMan Jones at Scores Strip Club. Goran Suton failed to show up in the second straight game and they got an fail out of Chris Allen whose been key down the stretch. At least the Milwaukee product Korie Lucious had a big game for the Spartans.
I think when we look at back at the season North Carolina had, it wasnt one of the best ever but is this in the top 10 best tourney teams ever? Absolutely. They beat every team by 10+ and there wasnt one game where they looked like they had a legitimate shot to lose the game in the second half. Tyler Hansbrough, Wayne Ellington, Ty Lawson, and Danny Green were all excellent. In addition, obviously Hansbrough is gone but I expect the rest of them to leave.
The future is still very bright with Deon Thompson, Ed Davis, and Larry Drew all returning to create a formidable team that should be in the Top 15 to start off the season. Well I said at the end of the year I would do a Marquette review and look ahead which is possible although dont be surprised if it doesnt happen.
-Charlie.
I should have realized that a Big Ten would fail to show up when they are "trying to do it for Detroit." Which became the most nauseating thing watching all of the pre-game coverage or the rehashing of Magic Johnson-Larry Bird which has been on overkill since the NBA Finals last year.
I told someone that I would rather have no Big East team in the final than put an embarrassment like that. They looked scared the entire game and they couldnt stop the three point shooters especially Wayne Ellington who was making it rain more than PacMan Jones at Scores Strip Club. Goran Suton failed to show up in the second straight game and they got an fail out of Chris Allen whose been key down the stretch. At least the Milwaukee product Korie Lucious had a big game for the Spartans.
I think when we look at back at the season North Carolina had, it wasnt one of the best ever but is this in the top 10 best tourney teams ever? Absolutely. They beat every team by 10+ and there wasnt one game where they looked like they had a legitimate shot to lose the game in the second half. Tyler Hansbrough, Wayne Ellington, Ty Lawson, and Danny Green were all excellent. In addition, obviously Hansbrough is gone but I expect the rest of them to leave.
The future is still very bright with Deon Thompson, Ed Davis, and Larry Drew all returning to create a formidable team that should be in the Top 15 to start off the season. Well I said at the end of the year I would do a Marquette review and look ahead which is possible although dont be surprised if it doesnt happen.
-Charlie.
Monday, April 6, 2009
NCCA Championship Preview
Well before we start talking National Championship, I have a new blog that if you dont have a brain and like Chicago sports teams, this is a blog for you. Its called Man Up by my friend Mike.
Final day of college basketball which is always a sad day for me and the question is will this final game be entertaining? Last year was the first in a long while that was exciting for all parties to watch. I think it should be a good one as Michigan State takes on North Carolina.
-To start with State, they need a big night out of Goran Suton who faces the same daunting task as Dante Cunningham did on Saturday night by dealing with the gauntlet known as Tyler Hansbrough, Ed Davis, and Deon Thompson. He needs to have a great performance.
-The matchup of the night has to be Kalin Lucus vs. Ty Lawson. You could argue that these were the two best players in the NCCA Tournament this year and now they get to go up against each other which should be a fantastic cat/mouse game all night long. Watch out if one of these guys ends up in foul trouble.
-Another great battle should be Danny Green versus Raymar Morgan. Green who has been the catalyst throughout the tournament making big shots when needed and Morgan looked like last year version on Saturday night.
-I think if North Carolina doesnt want it close at the end, Wayne Ellington will need to be on point if he is making shots I feel no one in America can stop North Carolina.
-The bench play has been the reason these are the final two teams left and to be honest, nobody is deeper than North Carolina. Despite having the Dancing Bear-Draymond Green and Durrell Summers, they dont compare to Larry Drew, Tyler Zeller, and Ed Davis.
-I have a feeling this one we will be talking about all week but I think Carolina pulls it out in the very end. UNC 82-80
Final day of college basketball which is always a sad day for me and the question is will this final game be entertaining? Last year was the first in a long while that was exciting for all parties to watch. I think it should be a good one as Michigan State takes on North Carolina.
-To start with State, they need a big night out of Goran Suton who faces the same daunting task as Dante Cunningham did on Saturday night by dealing with the gauntlet known as Tyler Hansbrough, Ed Davis, and Deon Thompson. He needs to have a great performance.
-The matchup of the night has to be Kalin Lucus vs. Ty Lawson. You could argue that these were the two best players in the NCCA Tournament this year and now they get to go up against each other which should be a fantastic cat/mouse game all night long. Watch out if one of these guys ends up in foul trouble.
-Another great battle should be Danny Green versus Raymar Morgan. Green who has been the catalyst throughout the tournament making big shots when needed and Morgan looked like last year version on Saturday night.
-I think if North Carolina doesnt want it close at the end, Wayne Ellington will need to be on point if he is making shots I feel no one in America can stop North Carolina.
-The bench play has been the reason these are the final two teams left and to be honest, nobody is deeper than North Carolina. Despite having the Dancing Bear-Draymond Green and Durrell Summers, they dont compare to Larry Drew, Tyler Zeller, and Ed Davis.
-I have a feeling this one we will be talking about all week but I think Carolina pulls it out in the very end. UNC 82-80
Swiss Plax Needs a Job
On Friday, the New York Giants decided to get rid of the cancer that was infecting them by releasing Plaxico Burress due to in large part of the gun charges Swiss Plax has.
I think it was the writing on the wall that Coach Tom Coughlin is not the type of the coach you want to be pissed off at you or the type of guy that will put up with off-field issues. Even though the Giants struggled without Burress last year, they can find a guy like Anquan Boldin, Braylon Edwards (rumored on the block), or get a guy like Hakeem Nicks from North Carolina, Darius Heywood-Bey from Maryland would be another great option.
As for Swiss Plax, just like Michael Vick he will find a job somewhere in the NFL to a team who believes they can hold Plax down and keep him under control. The hotspot for cancers has always been Dallas and Oakland although actually I could see both teams passing on Plaxico because I want to believe they are past that phase. How good would Seattle be if they add Plaxico? Granted with legal troubles, its a risky move but they make themselves contenders. Another scary option would be if the Bears decided to press their luck with Plax and if that happens I will probably hid under blankets for a couple of days.
-Charlie.
I think it was the writing on the wall that Coach Tom Coughlin is not the type of the coach you want to be pissed off at you or the type of guy that will put up with off-field issues. Even though the Giants struggled without Burress last year, they can find a guy like Anquan Boldin, Braylon Edwards (rumored on the block), or get a guy like Hakeem Nicks from North Carolina, Darius Heywood-Bey from Maryland would be another great option.
As for Swiss Plax, just like Michael Vick he will find a job somewhere in the NFL to a team who believes they can hold Plax down and keep him under control. The hotspot for cancers has always been Dallas and Oakland although actually I could see both teams passing on Plaxico because I want to believe they are past that phase. How good would Seattle be if they add Plaxico? Granted with legal troubles, its a risky move but they make themselves contenders. Another scary option would be if the Bears decided to press their luck with Plax and if that happens I will probably hid under blankets for a couple of days.
-Charlie.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
NL Preview
I know the season has begun but I would like to get it done before all the games start on Monday. Also at the end of this, I will give my overall prediction on what will happen when playoffs roll around in October.
NL East
1. Philadelphia Phillies- The World Champions are looking to make a repeat this year and they very well could. I loved the addition of Raul Ibanez and their pitching staff is very good. Dont be surprised if Cole Hamels is the NL Cy Young. The big question will be does Brad Lidge come down to earth or does he continue his dominance?
2. New York Mets (Wildcard) When I was thinking about the preview, I felt like the Mets were the bonafide number two and the wildcard team now I am unsure about all of this. Reason being is their starting pitching sucks, I mean Johan Santana is great but Mike Pelfery as a number two? Thats not going to get it done but if they make a deal to get someone it changes alot of things. I doubt they have bullpen problems though. Except the Mets to be challenged for the Wildcard and that two spot.
3. Florida Marlins- One of my personal favorite teams outside of Milwaukee with Dan Uggla and Hanley Ramirez as the best hitting middle infield. They do need better defensive play if they expect to win games. I feel they have one of the better pitching staffs with Ricky Nolasco, Josh Johnson, and Chris Volstad. They could easily grab the wildcard this year
4. Atlanta Braves- The Braves are trying to recapture the magic of the previous years and they have a couple strong points in Brian McCann and Chipper Jones. Plus if Jeff Francouer could get going that would be huge for them. Their pitching staff isnt bad but they are a bunch of 3-4 guys, no true ace.
5. Washington Nationals- Wow do they suck. There are no other words that really should be wasted for this hopeless team. They do have a couple great young players in Lastings Milledge and Ellijah Dukes.
NL Central
1. Milwaukee Brewers- SEE HERE AND HERE
2. Chicago Cubs- Some of you reading this believe that is biased but heres the deal, Carlos Zambrano's numbers have been down for the last three years in ERA, IP, and Ks so I dont think he will be very successful this year. I also feel Milton Bradley will cause way more problems for Chicago. This team will be only as good as how healthy they are.
3. Cincinnati Reds- The next two teams I think will be 3-4 interchangeable. I think Edinson Volquez or Johnny Cueto will have injury problems this year because simply Dusty Baker cannot manage pitching. Joey Votto/Jay Bruce should also be very good for the offense.
4. St. Louis Cardinals- If there was one team that will live/die by injuries is the Cardinals. They have a pretty delepeted pitching staff with Adam Wainwright as the Opening Day starter and their lineup is a pretty young one who are very unproven. This could be an ugly year for the Cards.
5. Houston Astros- I dont know what it is about teams in Texas but they do not have any pitching to save their souls. The Stros do have Roy Oswalt and Jose Valverde which helps although after that its a significant drop off. They do have a ton of guys who can pound the shit out of the ball.
6. Pittsburgh Pirates- They have some up and coming prospects although I dont think any of us should expect them to be higher than five in this division. It will be interesting to see if Nate McClouth has the same sort of year that he did last year or it was just an one-year wonder.
NL WEST
1. Los Angeles Dodgers- The NL West is the definitely the ugly girl at the party when it comes to division. They are just awful but the Dodgers have a chance to get it done with a pretty solid pitching staff then add Manny Ramirez to the mix. I think they still need one more hitter to protect Manny.
2. San Francisco Giants- This is probably the best pitching staff in the big leagues with Tim Linecum, Matt Cain, and the Big Unit Randy Johnson. They might make a push to get into the playoffs but if they do not have an offense, they will be in big trouble. Pablo Sandoval could win Rookie of the Year, he is a big threat at third base.
3. Arizona Diamondbacks- They could be a team that also competes in the NL West because they have a good one-two punch in Brandon Webb and Dan Haren and include Mark Reynolds/Stephan Drew, they could be impressive. I would worry about Chad Qualls closing games though.
4. Colorado Rockies- I think Troy Tulowitzki will have a bounce back year but the Rockies really dont have much else. It will be intriguing to see if Aaron Cook has a good year again and if Todd Helton recovers.
5. San Diego Padres- Another team who is waste of typing but they have probably the hottest trade option in Jake Peavy who will be sought after all year by all sorts of teams. Chase Headley could have a big year for the Padres as well.
AL:
Boston beats Minnesota 3-1
New York beats Los Angeles 3-2
New York beats Boston 4-2
NL
Philadelphia beats Los Angeles 3-1
Milwaukee beats New York 3-1
Philadelphia beats Milwaukee 4-2
World Series: Philadelphia beats New York 4-3- It might because I think the American League is much more open than it has been in the last couple of years so there could be alot of teams that make it out of the American League while on the other hand, the Phillies are the best overall team.
NL East
1. Philadelphia Phillies- The World Champions are looking to make a repeat this year and they very well could. I loved the addition of Raul Ibanez and their pitching staff is very good. Dont be surprised if Cole Hamels is the NL Cy Young. The big question will be does Brad Lidge come down to earth or does he continue his dominance?
2. New York Mets (Wildcard) When I was thinking about the preview, I felt like the Mets were the bonafide number two and the wildcard team now I am unsure about all of this. Reason being is their starting pitching sucks, I mean Johan Santana is great but Mike Pelfery as a number two? Thats not going to get it done but if they make a deal to get someone it changes alot of things. I doubt they have bullpen problems though. Except the Mets to be challenged for the Wildcard and that two spot.
3. Florida Marlins- One of my personal favorite teams outside of Milwaukee with Dan Uggla and Hanley Ramirez as the best hitting middle infield. They do need better defensive play if they expect to win games. I feel they have one of the better pitching staffs with Ricky Nolasco, Josh Johnson, and Chris Volstad. They could easily grab the wildcard this year
4. Atlanta Braves- The Braves are trying to recapture the magic of the previous years and they have a couple strong points in Brian McCann and Chipper Jones. Plus if Jeff Francouer could get going that would be huge for them. Their pitching staff isnt bad but they are a bunch of 3-4 guys, no true ace.
5. Washington Nationals- Wow do they suck. There are no other words that really should be wasted for this hopeless team. They do have a couple great young players in Lastings Milledge and Ellijah Dukes.
NL Central
1. Milwaukee Brewers- SEE HERE AND HERE
2. Chicago Cubs- Some of you reading this believe that is biased but heres the deal, Carlos Zambrano's numbers have been down for the last three years in ERA, IP, and Ks so I dont think he will be very successful this year. I also feel Milton Bradley will cause way more problems for Chicago. This team will be only as good as how healthy they are.
3. Cincinnati Reds- The next two teams I think will be 3-4 interchangeable. I think Edinson Volquez or Johnny Cueto will have injury problems this year because simply Dusty Baker cannot manage pitching. Joey Votto/Jay Bruce should also be very good for the offense.
4. St. Louis Cardinals- If there was one team that will live/die by injuries is the Cardinals. They have a pretty delepeted pitching staff with Adam Wainwright as the Opening Day starter and their lineup is a pretty young one who are very unproven. This could be an ugly year for the Cards.
5. Houston Astros- I dont know what it is about teams in Texas but they do not have any pitching to save their souls. The Stros do have Roy Oswalt and Jose Valverde which helps although after that its a significant drop off. They do have a ton of guys who can pound the shit out of the ball.
6. Pittsburgh Pirates- They have some up and coming prospects although I dont think any of us should expect them to be higher than five in this division. It will be interesting to see if Nate McClouth has the same sort of year that he did last year or it was just an one-year wonder.
NL WEST
1. Los Angeles Dodgers- The NL West is the definitely the ugly girl at the party when it comes to division. They are just awful but the Dodgers have a chance to get it done with a pretty solid pitching staff then add Manny Ramirez to the mix. I think they still need one more hitter to protect Manny.
2. San Francisco Giants- This is probably the best pitching staff in the big leagues with Tim Linecum, Matt Cain, and the Big Unit Randy Johnson. They might make a push to get into the playoffs but if they do not have an offense, they will be in big trouble. Pablo Sandoval could win Rookie of the Year, he is a big threat at third base.
3. Arizona Diamondbacks- They could be a team that also competes in the NL West because they have a good one-two punch in Brandon Webb and Dan Haren and include Mark Reynolds/Stephan Drew, they could be impressive. I would worry about Chad Qualls closing games though.
4. Colorado Rockies- I think Troy Tulowitzki will have a bounce back year but the Rockies really dont have much else. It will be intriguing to see if Aaron Cook has a good year again and if Todd Helton recovers.
5. San Diego Padres- Another team who is waste of typing but they have probably the hottest trade option in Jake Peavy who will be sought after all year by all sorts of teams. Chase Headley could have a big year for the Padres as well.
AL:
Boston beats Minnesota 3-1
New York beats Los Angeles 3-2
New York beats Boston 4-2
NL
Philadelphia beats Los Angeles 3-1
Milwaukee beats New York 3-1
Philadelphia beats Milwaukee 4-2
World Series: Philadelphia beats New York 4-3- It might because I think the American League is much more open than it has been in the last couple of years so there could be alot of teams that make it out of the American League while on the other hand, the Phillies are the best overall team.
Milwaukee Brewers Preview (Pitchers/Predictions)
Well good news my computer is back and I will be popping out articles today/tomorrow.
Here are the pitchers...
STARTERS
Jeff Suppan-If there was one guy who I worried about all last year, it was Soup. It had seemed like he lost it and really didnt have it anymore. I think he could have a good year but I wouldnt be surprised if he struggles mightily.
Yovani Gallardo- I am a huge fan of Yo always have been and contemplating getting his jersey anyways Gallardo is set to have a huge year because he can beat batters with the fastball and off speed. I wouldnt be surprised if he wins 15+
Dave Bush- This is the #1 most hated player by the fans for no reason. He has been the steady horse of the rotation for the last couple of years and Bush can be a big part of the Brewers this year. I love his curveball and hope that it continues this year.
Braden Looper- This is another guy who could either be disaster or surprisingly successful. He has had an alright spring but its been nothing special. I dont know what to expect really.
Manny Parra- A couple people who I have talked to are really worried about Parra's confidence. I am not. I really think Parra has a chance to be great this year and he could become the number two by the end of the year.
RELIEVERS
Todd Coffey-Did some nice things at the end of the year but I used to make fun of Coffey when he was with the Reds. I hope that a change of scenery was all that he needed.
Mark DiFelice-He will probably go down to the minors when Trevor Hoffman comes back from the DL but DiFelice did a great job of a long reliever last year for the most part.
David Riske- Rut roh. This is the one guy that I do not want to see in the game at all this year because of his awful spring so far. I hope that he gets released by the end of April if things do not improve
Jorge Julio- He could be this year's Guillermo Mota because he is a typical headcase from south of the border. Julio lets remember was a big time closer for the a couple years at Baltimore.
Seth McClung-The Big Red Nasty or "Ryan Bailey's older brother" I was surprised to hear that he wasnt closing in place of Hoffman but he will be used as a great 6-7th inning guy. I love the passion he brings and I hope he continues to get better.
Mitch Stetter-Another guy that I loved last year. Setter will be good in situations when we need a big out against leftys but in my opinion, Ned Yost only trusted him int those situations. I hope Setter gets an opportunity to pitch an inning or two.
Carlos Villanueva- Interesting for the Brewers this year will be how does C Villi respond to being a closer and how Villanueva does when he goes back to the 8th inning. I hope he doesnt have a "Turnbow" week when he is closing because that could spell disaster.
PREDICTION: I told some friends yesterday that I didnt like doing this because it felt biased but to be honest, I am an optimist when it comes to the Brewers. I also dont hate anyone until the season gets going. I hope to have a Brewers Weekly starting next Monday with an overall wrap up. My prediction is the Brewers will win 86 games and they will win the NL Central over the Cubs (I will explain later), I think their lineup is one of the best in the big leagues and if their pitching stays consistent including injury-free throughout the year.
-Charlie.
Here are the pitchers...
STARTERS
Jeff Suppan-If there was one guy who I worried about all last year, it was Soup. It had seemed like he lost it and really didnt have it anymore. I think he could have a good year but I wouldnt be surprised if he struggles mightily.
Yovani Gallardo- I am a huge fan of Yo always have been and contemplating getting his jersey anyways Gallardo is set to have a huge year because he can beat batters with the fastball and off speed. I wouldnt be surprised if he wins 15+
Dave Bush- This is the #1 most hated player by the fans for no reason. He has been the steady horse of the rotation for the last couple of years and Bush can be a big part of the Brewers this year. I love his curveball and hope that it continues this year.
Braden Looper- This is another guy who could either be disaster or surprisingly successful. He has had an alright spring but its been nothing special. I dont know what to expect really.
Manny Parra- A couple people who I have talked to are really worried about Parra's confidence. I am not. I really think Parra has a chance to be great this year and he could become the number two by the end of the year.
RELIEVERS
Todd Coffey-Did some nice things at the end of the year but I used to make fun of Coffey when he was with the Reds. I hope that a change of scenery was all that he needed.
Mark DiFelice-He will probably go down to the minors when Trevor Hoffman comes back from the DL but DiFelice did a great job of a long reliever last year for the most part.
David Riske- Rut roh. This is the one guy that I do not want to see in the game at all this year because of his awful spring so far. I hope that he gets released by the end of April if things do not improve
Jorge Julio- He could be this year's Guillermo Mota because he is a typical headcase from south of the border. Julio lets remember was a big time closer for the a couple years at Baltimore.
Seth McClung-The Big Red Nasty or "Ryan Bailey's older brother" I was surprised to hear that he wasnt closing in place of Hoffman but he will be used as a great 6-7th inning guy. I love the passion he brings and I hope he continues to get better.
Mitch Stetter-Another guy that I loved last year. Setter will be good in situations when we need a big out against leftys but in my opinion, Ned Yost only trusted him int those situations. I hope Setter gets an opportunity to pitch an inning or two.
Carlos Villanueva- Interesting for the Brewers this year will be how does C Villi respond to being a closer and how Villanueva does when he goes back to the 8th inning. I hope he doesnt have a "Turnbow" week when he is closing because that could spell disaster.
PREDICTION: I told some friends yesterday that I didnt like doing this because it felt biased but to be honest, I am an optimist when it comes to the Brewers. I also dont hate anyone until the season gets going. I hope to have a Brewers Weekly starting next Monday with an overall wrap up. My prediction is the Brewers will win 86 games and they will win the NL Central over the Cubs (I will explain later), I think their lineup is one of the best in the big leagues and if their pitching stays consistent including injury-free throughout the year.
-Charlie.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Milwaukee Brewers Preview (Batters)
Here is my Brewers preview which I am pretty excited to write about because I think this will be a very successful year for the Crew with probably one of the best coaching staffs in the MLB with Ken Macha, Dale Sveum, and Willie Randolph plus a great offense. Dont forget a pitching staff that could do well.
STARTING LINEUP: Not where these guys will bat but just their overall position then I will do the bench for the Crew overall. Just my thoughts and feelings about how their season will go.
C: Jason Kendall- I think Kendall will still have a typical year but in my opinion he needs to take more days off to let Mike Rivera hit the ball. Although, I cannot take away from the way Kendall calls the game for the pitchers.
1B: Prince Fielder- According to a couple of people, Prince has lost around 50 lbs since last season. If this is true, he could have a big year for the Crew and lets hope the end of the year will be the whole 2009 season. Although if the Brewers are out of it in July which I doubt, they need to deal Fielder to pave the way for Mat Gamel.
2B: Rickie Weeks- Take a guess whose having the best Spring Training? Mr. Weeks and its begs the question could this be the year? I can only hope so. If Weeks starts hitting the ball like everyone said he would, the Brewers go from being good to really good.
3B: Bill Hall- Another big question going into the season is will Hall find his swagger again? My answer is yes, he got Lasik eye surgery and I think Sveum will work with him to not pull the ball so much. If he does struggle, Casey McGahee could start.
SS: JJ Hardy- Last year, Hardy proved to me that he is here to stay in Milwaukee with another 20+ home run year and was very good in the field. It would be nice if he could be more consistent instead of going on just complete tears for a couple of weeks.
LF: Ryan Braun- How can YouTube not have Braun's home run against the Cubs? Anyways, hopefully the injury bug doesnt plague him during the year. We were conversation in the car today and my buddy Jim goes "He's not cocky, he just got swagger." No doubt about that quote and I just expect Braun to be great throughout the year.
CF: Mike Cameron- I am interested to see what kind of year Cam has because with the Brewers giving up on Tony Gywnn Jr (its about time), I could see Cameron having a big year. At the same time, there is a good chance he could be dogshit as well. Another guy who could be gone in July if the Brewers struggle.
RF: Corey Hart- My main man and I took a ton of shit for wearing his jersey in September when he struggled. I hate looking at Spring Training stats but he was close to the top for Home Runs so who knows what the means for the season. I just hope he starts strong therefore the fans can lay off his ass for awhile.
BENCH
C: Mike Rivera- One of the most reliable guys on our bench last year when he played. I hope that Macha plays him more and also lets him pinch hit, I know you usually dont do that but he deserves to get at-bats.
1B/OF: Brad Nelson- He is big dude and could come off the bench with some pop in that bat. I hope he can deliver a couple big homers throughout the year. I am worried about him playing outfield if he is that big.
3B: Casey Maghee- This a guy we got from the Cubbies off waivers and he had a monster Spring Training so who knows what to expect. I hope he has a good year for the Crew.
IF: Craig Counsell- Good to see him back in a Brewers uniform and I hope he just keeps bringing veteran leadership with a couple big hits here and there.
OF: Chris Duffy- He had twenty-two homers in 2007 and I think he could big things for the Crew. I hope that he will bring some speed and power to the Brewers.
Pitchers are next...
-Charlie.
STARTING LINEUP: Not where these guys will bat but just their overall position then I will do the bench for the Crew overall. Just my thoughts and feelings about how their season will go.
C: Jason Kendall- I think Kendall will still have a typical year but in my opinion he needs to take more days off to let Mike Rivera hit the ball. Although, I cannot take away from the way Kendall calls the game for the pitchers.
1B: Prince Fielder- According to a couple of people, Prince has lost around 50 lbs since last season. If this is true, he could have a big year for the Crew and lets hope the end of the year will be the whole 2009 season. Although if the Brewers are out of it in July which I doubt, they need to deal Fielder to pave the way for Mat Gamel.
2B: Rickie Weeks- Take a guess whose having the best Spring Training? Mr. Weeks and its begs the question could this be the year? I can only hope so. If Weeks starts hitting the ball like everyone said he would, the Brewers go from being good to really good.
3B: Bill Hall- Another big question going into the season is will Hall find his swagger again? My answer is yes, he got Lasik eye surgery and I think Sveum will work with him to not pull the ball so much. If he does struggle, Casey McGahee could start.
SS: JJ Hardy- Last year, Hardy proved to me that he is here to stay in Milwaukee with another 20+ home run year and was very good in the field. It would be nice if he could be more consistent instead of going on just complete tears for a couple of weeks.
LF: Ryan Braun- How can YouTube not have Braun's home run against the Cubs? Anyways, hopefully the injury bug doesnt plague him during the year. We were conversation in the car today and my buddy Jim goes "He's not cocky, he just got swagger." No doubt about that quote and I just expect Braun to be great throughout the year.
CF: Mike Cameron- I am interested to see what kind of year Cam has because with the Brewers giving up on Tony Gywnn Jr (its about time), I could see Cameron having a big year. At the same time, there is a good chance he could be dogshit as well. Another guy who could be gone in July if the Brewers struggle.
RF: Corey Hart- My main man and I took a ton of shit for wearing his jersey in September when he struggled. I hate looking at Spring Training stats but he was close to the top for Home Runs so who knows what the means for the season. I just hope he starts strong therefore the fans can lay off his ass for awhile.
BENCH
C: Mike Rivera- One of the most reliable guys on our bench last year when he played. I hope that Macha plays him more and also lets him pinch hit, I know you usually dont do that but he deserves to get at-bats.
1B/OF: Brad Nelson- He is big dude and could come off the bench with some pop in that bat. I hope he can deliver a couple big homers throughout the year. I am worried about him playing outfield if he is that big.
3B: Casey Maghee- This a guy we got from the Cubbies off waivers and he had a monster Spring Training so who knows what to expect. I hope he has a good year for the Crew.
IF: Craig Counsell- Good to see him back in a Brewers uniform and I hope he just keeps bringing veteran leadership with a couple big hits here and there.
OF: Chris Duffy- He had twenty-two homers in 2007 and I think he could big things for the Crew. I hope that he will bring some speed and power to the Brewers.
Pitchers are next...
-Charlie.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
AL Preview
Well baseball season begins on Sunday with one game and then it comes full-circle on Monday or Tuesday. I am going to put on an AL Report, an NL Report, and a Milwaukee Brewers report so as the Joker will say "Here we go..."
AL EAST:
1. Boston Red Sox- They need to have to a big year out of David Ortiz to be successful and if that happens, they can be the top team in the toughest division in baseball. The other big question will Mike Lowell be able to swing a bat like he did in the past. Watch out for Rocco Baldielli as a guy who could come out of nowhere in addition Justin Masteron-Johnathan Papelbon combination could prove to be very deadly. Its their pitching that has them at the top.
2. New York Yankees (Wildcard)- The spenders of the offseason and made you think if there was a recession really going on. I have no worries about CC Sabathia in New York but A.J. Burnett will get hurt, I can guarantee you that. I also think Mark Teixeria will have a good year as well. It will get them to the playoffs but not to the World Series by any means.
3. Tampa Bay Rays- Am I still doubting the Rays? Somewhat. There have been many teams lately to slip off a bit after a franchise year. Word on the street is Carl Crawford is looking to redeem himself and their pitching staff is still very strong include David Price into the mix too. BJ Upton and Evan Longoria should have big years again this year as well. Its going to be a three team race going down to the final weekend when its all said and done.
4. Baltimore Orioles- This will be a typical year for the Orioles. They show some promise with Adam Jones and Luke Scott. Their downfall is they have no pitching with Jeremy Guthrie being the opening day starter. They do have a couple good things in Aubrey Huff and Melvin Mora then again nothing special. Matt Wieters will prove outlook for the future is great but its will not be anything to help the O's this year.
5. Toronto Blue Jays- The Fighting Sephers will find themselves at the bottom of the barrel this season. They do have Roy Halladay who will give them wins but there have already been trade rumors with him when July rolls around. After Halladay, the drop off is so severe and B.J. Ryan is a disaster in the bullpen. Their offense has Vernon Wells and then a bunch of old guys minus Adam Lind. They need to get young quick
AL CENTRAL
1. Minnesota Twins- I really think the Twins have a good thing going with Justin Morneau, Carlos Gomez and Denard Span. I know the Twins' fans do not really like Span but I think he could have a big year. Francisco Lirano could have a great year for the Twins and Kevin Slowley/Scott Baker make a formitable pitching rotation.
2. Cleveland Indians- Welcome back all you Wahoo Manics. Harry Doyle, you gotta love him anyways I really like the Indians offense especially with the addition of Mark DeRosa and I think Victor Martinez/Travis Hafner will stay healthy. The question will be the pitching staff be enough? I dont its enough to get the playoffs unless Carl Pavano comes out of nowhere for them. Also Kerry Wood as the closer is always risky.
3. Detroit Tigers- I remember last year Eric and I were so high on the Tigers thinking this was the most destructive team which was totally wrong. Apparently, I am the only guy who isnt a big Miguel Cabrera guy but I do love Curtis Granderson. They are another team with absolutely no pitching and Fransisco Rodney at closer will be a disaster.
4. Chicago White Sox- They have some good parts like Alexi Ramirez who is one of my favorite young players and I think Gavin Floyd is no joke either. But I think Carlos Quinten is a bit of a fluke add Jim Thome/Jermaine Dye getting older plus the reliability of Mark Buerhle is always a question.
5. Kansas City Royals-Bill Simmons loves this team and I think they have some great young talent although they will finished a spirited fifth. They have some good offensive tools with Alex Gordan, Billy Butler, and Mike Aviles. Their pitching staff is pretty strong with Zach Grinke and
Gil Meche. Look for the Royals to be right around the 3-5 for the whole year.
AL WEST
1. Los Angeles Angles- I will not give them the whole name but they are going to be the best team in the American League in my opinion. They have a nice offense with Vlad Guerrero being consistent as always and Bobby Aberu isnt a bad fit for them. The pitching rotation will be questionable with John Lackey not there until the end of April and Ervin Santana is pretty banged up. I still think they at the top of the table.
2. Texas Rangers- Like always they have a great offense with Nelson Cruz whose everyone favorite to be the next big thing and of course Josh Hamilton. Also add Ian Kinsler to that mix and you have an offense that can put up 8 runs a game. Although they have a pitching staff that can give up 8 runs as well. I could see if they are close to the playoffs in July making a trade for a pitcher.
3. Oakland A's- I talked earlier about how much I loved the Jason Giambi signing and Mat Holiday will be great for the team until he gets traded in late July likely. Their pitching staff is very young with Dana Evaland leading the staff worries me and Joey Devine is banged up right now in the bullpen.
4. Seattle Mariners- Another deal I loved in the offseason was the deal to bring Ken Griffey Jr. to the Mariners and they still have Adrian Beltre so I could see a pretty good offense. Felix Hernandez is a beast as a pitcher who will give them great production and Brandon Morrow is an up and coming closer. Dont be surprised if this team is around the second spot either.
NL Preview probably on Sunday.
-Charlie.
AL EAST:
1. Boston Red Sox- They need to have to a big year out of David Ortiz to be successful and if that happens, they can be the top team in the toughest division in baseball. The other big question will Mike Lowell be able to swing a bat like he did in the past. Watch out for Rocco Baldielli as a guy who could come out of nowhere in addition Justin Masteron-Johnathan Papelbon combination could prove to be very deadly. Its their pitching that has them at the top.
2. New York Yankees (Wildcard)- The spenders of the offseason and made you think if there was a recession really going on. I have no worries about CC Sabathia in New York but A.J. Burnett will get hurt, I can guarantee you that. I also think Mark Teixeria will have a good year as well. It will get them to the playoffs but not to the World Series by any means.
3. Tampa Bay Rays- Am I still doubting the Rays? Somewhat. There have been many teams lately to slip off a bit after a franchise year. Word on the street is Carl Crawford is looking to redeem himself and their pitching staff is still very strong include David Price into the mix too. BJ Upton and Evan Longoria should have big years again this year as well. Its going to be a three team race going down to the final weekend when its all said and done.
4. Baltimore Orioles- This will be a typical year for the Orioles. They show some promise with Adam Jones and Luke Scott. Their downfall is they have no pitching with Jeremy Guthrie being the opening day starter. They do have a couple good things in Aubrey Huff and Melvin Mora then again nothing special. Matt Wieters will prove outlook for the future is great but its will not be anything to help the O's this year.
5. Toronto Blue Jays- The Fighting Sephers will find themselves at the bottom of the barrel this season. They do have Roy Halladay who will give them wins but there have already been trade rumors with him when July rolls around. After Halladay, the drop off is so severe and B.J. Ryan is a disaster in the bullpen. Their offense has Vernon Wells and then a bunch of old guys minus Adam Lind. They need to get young quick
AL CENTRAL
1. Minnesota Twins- I really think the Twins have a good thing going with Justin Morneau, Carlos Gomez and Denard Span. I know the Twins' fans do not really like Span but I think he could have a big year. Francisco Lirano could have a great year for the Twins and Kevin Slowley/Scott Baker make a formitable pitching rotation.
2. Cleveland Indians- Welcome back all you Wahoo Manics. Harry Doyle, you gotta love him anyways I really like the Indians offense especially with the addition of Mark DeRosa and I think Victor Martinez/Travis Hafner will stay healthy. The question will be the pitching staff be enough? I dont its enough to get the playoffs unless Carl Pavano comes out of nowhere for them. Also Kerry Wood as the closer is always risky.
3. Detroit Tigers- I remember last year Eric and I were so high on the Tigers thinking this was the most destructive team which was totally wrong. Apparently, I am the only guy who isnt a big Miguel Cabrera guy but I do love Curtis Granderson. They are another team with absolutely no pitching and Fransisco Rodney at closer will be a disaster.
4. Chicago White Sox- They have some good parts like Alexi Ramirez who is one of my favorite young players and I think Gavin Floyd is no joke either. But I think Carlos Quinten is a bit of a fluke add Jim Thome/Jermaine Dye getting older plus the reliability of Mark Buerhle is always a question.
5. Kansas City Royals-Bill Simmons loves this team and I think they have some great young talent although they will finished a spirited fifth. They have some good offensive tools with Alex Gordan, Billy Butler, and Mike Aviles. Their pitching staff is pretty strong with Zach Grinke and
Gil Meche. Look for the Royals to be right around the 3-5 for the whole year.
AL WEST
1. Los Angeles Angles- I will not give them the whole name but they are going to be the best team in the American League in my opinion. They have a nice offense with Vlad Guerrero being consistent as always and Bobby Aberu isnt a bad fit for them. The pitching rotation will be questionable with John Lackey not there until the end of April and Ervin Santana is pretty banged up. I still think they at the top of the table.
2. Texas Rangers- Like always they have a great offense with Nelson Cruz whose everyone favorite to be the next big thing and of course Josh Hamilton. Also add Ian Kinsler to that mix and you have an offense that can put up 8 runs a game. Although they have a pitching staff that can give up 8 runs as well. I could see if they are close to the playoffs in July making a trade for a pitcher.
3. Oakland A's- I talked earlier about how much I loved the Jason Giambi signing and Mat Holiday will be great for the team until he gets traded in late July likely. Their pitching staff is very young with Dana Evaland leading the staff worries me and Joey Devine is banged up right now in the bullpen.
4. Seattle Mariners- Another deal I loved in the offseason was the deal to bring Ken Griffey Jr. to the Mariners and they still have Adrian Beltre so I could see a pretty good offense. Felix Hernandez is a beast as a pitcher who will give them great production and Brandon Morrow is an up and coming closer. Dont be surprised if this team is around the second spot either.
NL Preview probably on Sunday.
-Charlie.
Villanova-North Carolina Preview
Here is the second half of the Final Four for all of those that cares.
(3) Villanova vs. (1) North Carolina- This is a game that intrigues because I like both teams alot from a fan perspective and I love the fact that Nova is the hot team in the tournament right now with Scottie Reynolds big shot. Add to the fact of the screw job that happened in 2005 tournament which featured two of my favorite overall teams in the last 10 years with the Allen Ray-Randy Foye versus Rashard McCants-Sean May-Raymond Felton team. This should be a good one.
Starting off with the Wildcats, they have great guard play featuring Reynolds whose one of the best leaders in the NCAA. The matchup of him and Ty Lawson will be great although heres the thing whenever Dominic James went up against Reynolds, he neutralized Reynolds by his speed.
The one thing that can win the Wildcats the game is their three point shooting. If they are lights out, look out. Corey Fisher, Corey Stokes, and Dwayne Anderson dropped 17 points basically being the key to keep the Wildcats in the game on Saturday.
Another huge question that looms for the Wildcats will Dante Cunningham be able to stop the North Carolina big men? My answer probably not. He is a good player but putting up with the punishment of going up on Deon Thompson, Tyler Hansbrough, and Ed Davis will either put Cunningham in foul trouble or will not handle those three.
On to Carolina, they have Lawson who has been the best player in the NCAA Tournament so far. He has been so dynamic and is the best point guard in the nation right now. As I said above there is no reason why he will not contain Reynolds.
I said this about Michigan State and the Tar Heels have the same sort of bench although it was deeper. Davis is a monster, Larry Drew is another guy who can give you 10 and Tyler Zeller can be very good defensively.
Danny Green is one of the most versatile player and really can do anything for the Heels. In addition, he is another guy who could contain Cunningham as well and frustrate him. He is the glue of the North Carolina team and if he doesnt go, the Tar Heels are in big trouble.
With that said, Cunningham/Reynolds struggle and this dooms the Wildcats. It could be as ugly as Marquette-Kansas but I think they keep it within twenty. UNC 87-72
(3) Villanova vs. (1) North Carolina- This is a game that intrigues because I like both teams alot from a fan perspective and I love the fact that Nova is the hot team in the tournament right now with Scottie Reynolds big shot. Add to the fact of the screw job that happened in 2005 tournament which featured two of my favorite overall teams in the last 10 years with the Allen Ray-Randy Foye versus Rashard McCants-Sean May-Raymond Felton team. This should be a good one.
Starting off with the Wildcats, they have great guard play featuring Reynolds whose one of the best leaders in the NCAA. The matchup of him and Ty Lawson will be great although heres the thing whenever Dominic James went up against Reynolds, he neutralized Reynolds by his speed.
The one thing that can win the Wildcats the game is their three point shooting. If they are lights out, look out. Corey Fisher, Corey Stokes, and Dwayne Anderson dropped 17 points basically being the key to keep the Wildcats in the game on Saturday.
Another huge question that looms for the Wildcats will Dante Cunningham be able to stop the North Carolina big men? My answer probably not. He is a good player but putting up with the punishment of going up on Deon Thompson, Tyler Hansbrough, and Ed Davis will either put Cunningham in foul trouble or will not handle those three.
On to Carolina, they have Lawson who has been the best player in the NCAA Tournament so far. He has been so dynamic and is the best point guard in the nation right now. As I said above there is no reason why he will not contain Reynolds.
I said this about Michigan State and the Tar Heels have the same sort of bench although it was deeper. Davis is a monster, Larry Drew is another guy who can give you 10 and Tyler Zeller can be very good defensively.
Danny Green is one of the most versatile player and really can do anything for the Heels. In addition, he is another guy who could contain Cunningham as well and frustrate him. He is the glue of the North Carolina team and if he doesnt go, the Tar Heels are in big trouble.
With that said, Cunningham/Reynolds struggle and this dooms the Wildcats. It could be as ugly as Marquette-Kansas but I think they keep it within twenty. UNC 87-72
Michigan State-UConn Preview
Need to slipt this up into two articles because I have many thoughts about the four teams. You should only be so lucky.
(2) Michigan State vs. (1) UConn- Maybe I should change this to the Huskies at the Spartans which the Final Four being 70 miles away from the East Lansing campus. I must admit I chuckled a bit when I saw my friend Pat take the Spartans to win it all this year at the beginning of the tourney but now he is looking like the tourney guru at this point.
The big matchup of the night is to see the Goran Suton versus Hasheem Thabeet battle. I think Suton has the oppertunity to dominate Thabeet because of his mobility and passing. Suton has faced enough tough big guys inside throughout his four years and is the type of player that Thabeet doesnt show up against. Doz has also mentioned to me about Tom Herzog a seldomly used seven footer who could help out.
The other thing I really like about Michigan State is their depth. When teams are deep, they become very dangerous. Take Durrell Summer for example last Sunday who hit multiple big three pointers and I really like Draymond Green off the bench for them too.
UConn needs to have a good day out of A.J. Price who has failed to show up in the last couple of games and has needed the help of Kemba Walker/Craig Austrie to bail him out like the Federal Government. I also think Stanley Robinson needs to be explosive and be a spark plug like he has since the Marquette game in late February.
When all thats said and done, I think Michigan State continues their run with big time defense and great bench play. MSU 67-60
-Charlie
(2) Michigan State vs. (1) UConn- Maybe I should change this to the Huskies at the Spartans which the Final Four being 70 miles away from the East Lansing campus. I must admit I chuckled a bit when I saw my friend Pat take the Spartans to win it all this year at the beginning of the tourney but now he is looking like the tourney guru at this point.
The big matchup of the night is to see the Goran Suton versus Hasheem Thabeet battle. I think Suton has the oppertunity to dominate Thabeet because of his mobility and passing. Suton has faced enough tough big guys inside throughout his four years and is the type of player that Thabeet doesnt show up against. Doz has also mentioned to me about Tom Herzog a seldomly used seven footer who could help out.
The other thing I really like about Michigan State is their depth. When teams are deep, they become very dangerous. Take Durrell Summer for example last Sunday who hit multiple big three pointers and I really like Draymond Green off the bench for them too.
UConn needs to have a good day out of A.J. Price who has failed to show up in the last couple of games and has needed the help of Kemba Walker/Craig Austrie to bail him out like the Federal Government. I also think Stanley Robinson needs to be explosive and be a spark plug like he has since the Marquette game in late February.
When all thats said and done, I think Michigan State continues their run with big time defense and great bench play. MSU 67-60
-Charlie
I Can Really Hate Cutler Now.
If Jay Cutler hasnt done enough for me to hate him enough, he has achieved TO status by now being on the Chicago Bears. The Broncos traded Cutler for Kyle Orton including 1st round picks in 2009/2010.
I am worried about this. Mach on the other hand thinks this isnt going to be a problem and just sees him as a complete headcase. But to be honest, I think Cutler is a good quarterback whose a stats guy but I dont think he has the confidence to be a Peyton Manning or a Brett Favre.
Knowing the Chicago sports fans I am guessing their media is deeming him the "Chicago's Brett Favre" and are just going nuts over the possibility of having a franchise quarterback for the next ten years. They have wanted a franchise quarterback for the last couple of years and now it is finally there.
I took a look at the depth chart and they just inked Orlando Pace who can still give you 10-12 games so that helps out their offensive line. They still dont have a receiver who could help the cause and Matt Forte faded off as the season went on. Their front line is still solid but I question their secondary.
Cutler versus Rodgers should be a great one for the first game of the year.
-Charlie.
I am worried about this. Mach on the other hand thinks this isnt going to be a problem and just sees him as a complete headcase. But to be honest, I think Cutler is a good quarterback whose a stats guy but I dont think he has the confidence to be a Peyton Manning or a Brett Favre.
Knowing the Chicago sports fans I am guessing their media is deeming him the "Chicago's Brett Favre" and are just going nuts over the possibility of having a franchise quarterback for the next ten years. They have wanted a franchise quarterback for the last couple of years and now it is finally there.
I took a look at the depth chart and they just inked Orlando Pace who can still give you 10-12 games so that helps out their offensive line. They still dont have a receiver who could help the cause and Matt Forte faded off as the season went on. Their front line is still solid but I question their secondary.
Cutler versus Rodgers should be a great one for the first game of the year.
-Charlie.
Tim Floyd, My Fault.
This whole article needs to be blown up because I basically destroyed Tim Floyd in this article with the assumption that Floyd would take the job at Arizona.
I would like to see some hope in the article but there was nothing. I told Mach I did this, he just goes HOW ABOUT A SNAKE NOW CHUCK!!!!! then Boom Roasted. That is spot on right there and I have nothing left to say.
I have no idea where Arizona goes from here and I guess Jeff Capel/Mark Few have already said no to the job. I have no idea who to go after if I were Arizona, it seems like all the guys have said no already. Maybe look at Sean Miller? There is a good chance that Miller would take the Arizona job.
But who knows really... once again my bad Tim Floyd.
-Charlie.
I would like to see some hope in the article but there was nothing. I told Mach I did this, he just goes HOW ABOUT A SNAKE NOW CHUCK!!!!! then Boom Roasted. That is spot on right there and I have nothing left to say.
I have no idea where Arizona goes from here and I guess Jeff Capel/Mark Few have already said no to the job. I have no idea who to go after if I were Arizona, it seems like all the guys have said no already. Maybe look at Sean Miller? There is a good chance that Miller would take the Arizona job.
But who knows really... once again my bad Tim Floyd.
-Charlie.
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