Once again, the mysterious 2003 PED list has struck again. The New York Times have once again reported two more players with that big list of hunderd and three players. Those two were Los Angeles Dodgers' outfielder Manny Ramirez and Boston Red Sox's first baseman David Ortiz. If you forgot, Ortiz was the same guy who called for a one year ban if someone was doing steroids.... rut roh.
I dont really care about Manny because he already has been suspended this year for the PED issue. I mean he did say that this was his only time and he never did it any other times during the other years. But that not has proven to be false. Big Papi is another story for a couple reasons...
a. Like I said before, he was such a big proponent of steroids are a bad thing and they are completely wrong. Ortiz was adamant about getting PED's out of baseball and seemed like one of the good guys. That's why him saying he was shocked by all of this makes a little sense to me because when the list came out they were made aware.
b. He is Boston's sports hero for baseball right now more so than Manny when he was there and trust me when I was down in the Dominican Republic, he was so iconic there as well. Outsiders like me loved Ortiz for his clutch hitting in the playoffs and his happy-go-lucky attitude about the game.
c. Ortiz making claims that he will try to explain all of the details to his fans through the media is an admirable gesture but who knows what we will actually learn from Ortiz. If Big Papi says look I screwed up and took a doctor's advice to help (insert any injury) didnt realize one of the banned substances was in there.
I have said before a million times, it wasnt banned at the time of using therefore why should it really be that big of a deal? I mean I can only imagine what some of these players were thinking "Oh man, this guy is getting such advantage with steroids, I need to get my hands on those." You really dont think that thought went through a lot of guys heads during the fifteen to twenty years.
Just release the list and let all these guys in the Hall of Fame if they deserve it.
-Charlie.
The New Logo
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Lamar Lands in LA
One of the biggest things in the NBA off season has came to end with the Los Angeles Lakers agreeing to a deal with Lamar Odom after it appeared that he was headed back with the Miami Heat. This for the Lakers was probably the biggest achievement of the off season.
We have talked about Odom a couple times on the blog and take away all the things that Kobe Bryant does... LO is the glue of the team. Despite what you think about Odom's antics with his love of the beach and gummy worms, LO does some great things on the boards, defense, and somewhat scoring wise. It also appears to me that Odom is one of the veteran leaders (Derek Fisher too) who will talk to you and explain to you whats going on in the Laker world. The big reason is I really dont believe that Kobe does all that shit therefore you have Odom.
Los Angeles has to breathe a sigh of a relief too because if they were lose Odom and Trevor Ariza would have been disastrous. The Lakers would have to find someone to fill the hole of Odom would have left and it wouldnt been anyone to Lamar's level.
The Lakers now look ready to make a title defense with their new acquisition Ron Artest who is high school friends with Odom leading to having a strong relationship on the court. I think you will see Artest-Odom combination on many parts of the floor.
-Charlie.
We have talked about Odom a couple times on the blog and take away all the things that Kobe Bryant does... LO is the glue of the team. Despite what you think about Odom's antics with his love of the beach and gummy worms, LO does some great things on the boards, defense, and somewhat scoring wise. It also appears to me that Odom is one of the veteran leaders (Derek Fisher too) who will talk to you and explain to you whats going on in the Laker world. The big reason is I really dont believe that Kobe does all that shit therefore you have Odom.
Los Angeles has to breathe a sigh of a relief too because if they were lose Odom and Trevor Ariza would have been disastrous. The Lakers would have to find someone to fill the hole of Odom would have left and it wouldnt been anyone to Lamar's level.
The Lakers now look ready to make a title defense with their new acquisition Ron Artest who is high school friends with Odom leading to having a strong relationship on the court. I think you will see Artest-Odom combination on many parts of the floor.
-Charlie.
Los Angeles' Answer.
The Los Angeles Dodgers knew that they had to make a move with the Philadelphia Phillies trading for Cliff Lee and they have deliver that answer with dealing for Baltimore Orioles' George Sherrill for a couple of prospects.
My thoughts on this one is the Dodgers did a great job at getting a solid reliever who will be their closer right now and then their eight inning guy when Jonathan Broxton comes back from injury. Sherrill has had a good year so far with twenty saves and a 2.43 ERA plus he throws from the left side making him more deadly. Baltimore has Jim Johnson who can be the closer for the Orioles and they didnt really give away a cornerstone. It was a very smart idea for the Orioles to deal Sherrill.
The one thing I didnt know about the Dodgers is the fact that they are the second highest bullpen innings in the league which is something to raise concerns. Los Angeles is going to need big innings out of guys like Chad Billingsley, Clayton Kershaw, and Hiroki Kuroda. If their bullpen begins to get over worked you have to worry about the Dodgers in September.
-Charlie.
My thoughts on this one is the Dodgers did a great job at getting a solid reliever who will be their closer right now and then their eight inning guy when Jonathan Broxton comes back from injury. Sherrill has had a good year so far with twenty saves and a 2.43 ERA plus he throws from the left side making him more deadly. Baltimore has Jim Johnson who can be the closer for the Orioles and they didnt really give away a cornerstone. It was a very smart idea for the Orioles to deal Sherrill.
The one thing I didnt know about the Dodgers is the fact that they are the second highest bullpen innings in the league which is something to raise concerns. Los Angeles is going to need big innings out of guys like Chad Billingsley, Clayton Kershaw, and Hiroki Kuroda. If their bullpen begins to get over worked you have to worry about the Dodgers in September.
-Charlie.
Lee Lands in Philly and Cleveland Continues the Torment
The Philadelphia Phillies have been the hottest team in baseball for the last month have maybe vaulted themselves into the top team in the National League by landing 2008 AL Cy Young Winner Cliff Lee from the Cleveland Indians.
The Phillies needed pitching for sure with a combined 4.68 ERA which is one of the worst in baseball. That has all changed with Lee because you have a vicious 1-2 punch of Lee and Cole Hamels who had a solid start two nights ago. The worry with the Phillies was they had a guy to go into game five or seven with but they didnt have the game four/six now they do with Lee. He has a 7-9 but has 3.14 ERA. I think a lot like CC Sabathia, his record doesnt reflect how good of a season he has. The other thing you have to factor is he will be playing in the National League for the first time which has usually worked for most teams.
Now the Indians are pulling a Pittsburgh Pirates and I am beginning to wonder if Rachel Phelps is owning the team again. They didnt get a lot for Sabathia last year and then they get five prospects from Phillie yet didnt get anyone that was involved in the Roy Halladay deal. They were both Cy Young winners from the year before, you have to imagine that they are getting a ton for both of them. Its unbelievable how little general manager Mark Sharpio is getting back for his guys plus the fact he still has a job. He should have been fired two years ago including head coach Eric Wedge. Cleveland isnt done either likely dealing Victor Martinez so we will see what their return is on that deal.
-Charlie.
The Phillies needed pitching for sure with a combined 4.68 ERA which is one of the worst in baseball. That has all changed with Lee because you have a vicious 1-2 punch of Lee and Cole Hamels who had a solid start two nights ago. The worry with the Phillies was they had a guy to go into game five or seven with but they didnt have the game four/six now they do with Lee. He has a 7-9 but has 3.14 ERA. I think a lot like CC Sabathia, his record doesnt reflect how good of a season he has. The other thing you have to factor is he will be playing in the National League for the first time which has usually worked for most teams.
Now the Indians are pulling a Pittsburgh Pirates and I am beginning to wonder if Rachel Phelps is owning the team again. They didnt get a lot for Sabathia last year and then they get five prospects from Phillie yet didnt get anyone that was involved in the Roy Halladay deal. They were both Cy Young winners from the year before, you have to imagine that they are getting a ton for both of them. Its unbelievable how little general manager Mark Sharpio is getting back for his guys plus the fact he still has a job. He should have been fired two years ago including head coach Eric Wedge. Cleveland isnt done either likely dealing Victor Martinez so we will see what their return is on that deal.
-Charlie.
Pirates is Just Giving Up Their Roster
Maybe I was wrong when I wrote yesterday that the Pittsburgh Pirates came out a winner yesterday in the trade that brought five new prospects for only Jack Wilson. Now they have traded away their final cornerstone in Freddy Sanchez to the San Francisco Giants for prospect Tim Alderson who is rated fourth in the Giants farm system.
I really cant explain to Pirate fans whats going on with their franchise. I mean they have made four deals already this off-season and there is still a day left before the deadline so who knows what will happen. If I was Pittsburgh, I would announce that this is the last year for trades and we are going to put full faith in John Russell to see what happens with what we have. Almost comparable to the Baltimore Orioles who brought in a lot of prospects and then said we are done... No way is Nick Markakis, Luke Scott, or Adam Jones is getting traded. That has to become Pittsburgh's attitude for the next three years.
As for San Francisco, they get a lead off bat or two hitter which they desperately need. They still havent answered the questions about power hitting at all. They should try to go after the suddenly red hot Josh Willingham of the Nationals or some spark in the three through five. I dont know if this is something that will put the Giants over the top in the National League Wild Card race.
-Charlie.
I really cant explain to Pirate fans whats going on with their franchise. I mean they have made four deals already this off-season and there is still a day left before the deadline so who knows what will happen. If I was Pittsburgh, I would announce that this is the last year for trades and we are going to put full faith in John Russell to see what happens with what we have. Almost comparable to the Baltimore Orioles who brought in a lot of prospects and then said we are done... No way is Nick Markakis, Luke Scott, or Adam Jones is getting traded. That has to become Pittsburgh's attitude for the next three years.
As for San Francisco, they get a lead off bat or two hitter which they desperately need. They still havent answered the questions about power hitting at all. They should try to go after the suddenly red hot Josh Willingham of the Nationals or some spark in the three through five. I dont know if this is something that will put the Giants over the top in the National League Wild Card race.
-Charlie.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Pittsburgh Trades Again... This Time They Win.
Once again the Pittsburgh Pirates have decided to trade one of their cornerstones of their franchise. This time its shortstop Jack Wilson whose been dealt to the Seattle Mariners along with disgruntled pitcher Ian Snell for prospect Jeff Clement, Ronny Cedeno, Aaron Pribanic, Brett Lorin, and Nathan Adacock. I know this probably upsets Pittsburgh but I really think you will like this deal in the long run.
Now Snell was a guy who asked to be sent down because he didnt want to play with the Pirates (I wish Bill Hall would do that) and he was guy that was expected to get traded. The Bucos were working on a deal for Wilson but they couldnt come to agreement on an extension due to the fact that Wilson didnt like that guys like Nate McLouth and Adam LaRoche was traded. He didnt trust the management wouldnt trade him if he signed a long term deal.
I would vote that the Pirates this time unlike the first two trades of the year won this deal. The Marniers gave up their top prospect for Jack Wilson? He is going to be a huge upgrade in defense but he has never been a big time hitter for Pirates. In addition, he will have to adjust to the American League. The only way I give Seattle the edge is if Snell turns out to be the stud that we all expected. I am curious if they will move Garrett Jones back to left field when Clement is ready to come out. Once again, it looks like the Pirates could be knocking on the door but who really knows with Pittsburgh.
-Charlie.
Now Snell was a guy who asked to be sent down because he didnt want to play with the Pirates (I wish Bill Hall would do that) and he was guy that was expected to get traded. The Bucos were working on a deal for Wilson but they couldnt come to agreement on an extension due to the fact that Wilson didnt like that guys like Nate McLouth and Adam LaRoche was traded. He didnt trust the management wouldnt trade him if he signed a long term deal.
I would vote that the Pirates this time unlike the first two trades of the year won this deal. The Marniers gave up their top prospect for Jack Wilson? He is going to be a huge upgrade in defense but he has never been a big time hitter for Pirates. In addition, he will have to adjust to the American League. The only way I give Seattle the edge is if Snell turns out to be the stud that we all expected. I am curious if they will move Garrett Jones back to left field when Clement is ready to come out. Once again, it looks like the Pirates could be knocking on the door but who really knows with Pittsburgh.
-Charlie.
Mark Buerhle is the Man.
The Chicago White Sox are battling for the American League Central division right now and one guy that is definitely helping out the cause is Mark Buerhle. Despite giving up four runs in the seven innings to the Minnesota Twins, Buerhle did something that no one had ever done before. He retired forty-five straight batters before Alexi Casilla broke it up with a walk. Then Denard Span hit a single shortly thereafter.
I think what Mark Buerhle did was stellar because the two guys behind him in consecutive outs have been both relievers (one of them being teammate Bobby Jenks). For a starting pitcher to first throw a perfect game is something that we only see only once every five years if we are lucky and then to see him come out the next game to get a perfect game into the latter part of the innings is phenomenal.
It does suck that Buerhle did get rocked in the seventh inning and he seemed very upset that they were not able to get the win obviously. Now he is 11-4 this season which I think you have to put him in the conversation for American League Cy Young. Obviously if he stays in the AL, Toronto's Roy Halladay will be right there along with Boston's Josh Beckett. Buerhle will need to keep pitching strong if the Sox wants to get into the playoffs again this year.
-Charlie.
I think what Mark Buerhle did was stellar because the two guys behind him in consecutive outs have been both relievers (one of them being teammate Bobby Jenks). For a starting pitcher to first throw a perfect game is something that we only see only once every five years if we are lucky and then to see him come out the next game to get a perfect game into the latter part of the innings is phenomenal.
It does suck that Buerhle did get rocked in the seventh inning and he seemed very upset that they were not able to get the win obviously. Now he is 11-4 this season which I think you have to put him in the conversation for American League Cy Young. Obviously if he stays in the AL, Toronto's Roy Halladay will be right there along with Boston's Josh Beckett. Buerhle will need to keep pitching strong if the Sox wants to get into the playoffs again this year.
-Charlie.
Haha Suck It Minnesota
Oh man is this funny.
I will take you back to a couple weeks ago when my buddy Doz and I finished a good workout at the alma mater when we saw a guy who looked like he ate at his local KFC at least once a day and this asshole was sporting an authentic Brett Favre Vikings Jersey. I just said damnit and knew that day was coming when Favre was going to join the Vikes which would lead to me to having the living shit out of Favre for awhile.
Now that has all changed with Brett Favre telling the Minnesota Vikings that he will stay retired... Boom Roasted Minnesota. This is a greatest news of the day I heard all day and I really do believe Favre is telling the truth about this one. He will not go back on his word because people got in his head that this would be the worst decision he has ever made.
It is too bad this couldnt be set in WWE where Favre would be in Minnesota ready to come back and he rips off his shirt where he pulls out his green/gold shirt. Telling the Vikings to fuck off and that I will always be a Green Bay Packer with Brad Childress in awe until Ted Thompson nails him with a chair. I feel that this would be the best way for this situation to end.
Also I cannot wait to get back to EC to rub this in to the Viqueens fans faces and thank you for finding your head Brett. As I have said before, I will see you in Canton.
-Charlie.
I will take you back to a couple weeks ago when my buddy Doz and I finished a good workout at the alma mater when we saw a guy who looked like he ate at his local KFC at least once a day and this asshole was sporting an authentic Brett Favre Vikings Jersey. I just said damnit and knew that day was coming when Favre was going to join the Vikes which would lead to me to having the living shit out of Favre for awhile.
Now that has all changed with Brett Favre telling the Minnesota Vikings that he will stay retired... Boom Roasted Minnesota. This is a greatest news of the day I heard all day and I really do believe Favre is telling the truth about this one. He will not go back on his word because people got in his head that this would be the worst decision he has ever made.
It is too bad this couldnt be set in WWE where Favre would be in Minnesota ready to come back and he rips off his shirt where he pulls out his green/gold shirt. Telling the Vikings to fuck off and that I will always be a Green Bay Packer with Brad Childress in awe until Ted Thompson nails him with a chair. I feel that this would be the best way for this situation to end.
Also I cannot wait to get back to EC to rub this in to the Viqueens fans faces and thank you for finding your head Brett. As I have said before, I will see you in Canton.
-Charlie.
I am Done. (Til Sunday)
To begin today, a quote from Seth... "Fuck, fuck, fuck fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck Farrell, fuck fuck fuck eh?" Now we tried to keep it appropriate for most ages to read but really thats is how everyone feels about the Brewers right now.
As I did with Brett Favre, I am putting another gag order on myself. No matter how frustrated I get in the next couple of days, I refuse to talk about the Brewers until Sunday August Second at the earliest. I am going to try to forgot the fact when a guy not named Yovani Gallardo is pitching we have given up a total of 10.25 runs a game. Therefore I have decided to rest up for the month of August and then maybe have some posts here/there making suggestions to cut back on my bitchin'.
A part of me hopes that because I have become like Randy Quaid's character in Major League II that they will turn it around. Then again I thought shaving my partial beard was the problem too. I just hope something sparks these guys and to be honest, I dont know if anything really cant spark these guys so there I worry. I think Ken Macha isnt going to yell and scream, he just knows that he has a really shitty pitching staff so no matter who he trots out there they will get rocked.
But I swear to Bernie Brewer, if Ken doesnt put Mike Rivera as the catcher tomorrow for Manny Parra... I am going to come down to Miller Park with John Cena and dropped an Attitude Adjustment right on Macha's fat ass. That needs to happen tomorrow.
Also why was Tim Dillard who just came up from the bigs in there for his fourth inning, Todd Coffey was warming up and a double switch could have been made. Instead we let Dillard pitch and he gives up a three run jack to pudgy fat ass Christian Guzman.
I am dont want to be done but I am getting so damn close. The good news is with Carlos Villanueva pitching four innings tonight, we probably dont see his ass the rest of the week. Thank God.
-Charlie.
As I did with Brett Favre, I am putting another gag order on myself. No matter how frustrated I get in the next couple of days, I refuse to talk about the Brewers until Sunday August Second at the earliest. I am going to try to forgot the fact when a guy not named Yovani Gallardo is pitching we have given up a total of 10.25 runs a game. Therefore I have decided to rest up for the month of August and then maybe have some posts here/there making suggestions to cut back on my bitchin'.
A part of me hopes that because I have become like Randy Quaid's character in Major League II that they will turn it around. Then again I thought shaving my partial beard was the problem too. I just hope something sparks these guys and to be honest, I dont know if anything really cant spark these guys so there I worry. I think Ken Macha isnt going to yell and scream, he just knows that he has a really shitty pitching staff so no matter who he trots out there they will get rocked.
But I swear to Bernie Brewer, if Ken doesnt put Mike Rivera as the catcher tomorrow for Manny Parra... I am going to come down to Miller Park with John Cena and dropped an Attitude Adjustment right on Macha's fat ass. That needs to happen tomorrow.
Also why was Tim Dillard who just came up from the bigs in there for his fourth inning, Todd Coffey was warming up and a double switch could have been made. Instead we let Dillard pitch and he gives up a three run jack to pudgy fat ass Christian Guzman.
I am dont want to be done but I am getting so damn close. The good news is with Carlos Villanueva pitching four innings tonight, we probably dont see his ass the rest of the week. Thank God.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Charlotte Loves Their Fans.
If you didnt hear yesterday, the Charlotte Bobcats decided to deal Emeka Okafor to the New Orleans Hornets for Tyson Chandler. This trade doesnt make any sense to me when I first heard about it and many people that are Hornets fans are pumping their fists in the air. While Charlotte feels they just lost the face of their franchise for sure.
The Hornets received a guy like Okafor who has been nothing short of great during his first couple years in Charlotte and that is with nobody helping him out. I expect Okafor if he stays healthy to be an All-Star next year with the tandem of Chris Paul passing you the ball, his numbers will be huge. In addition, I am sure this makes CP3 a very happy man after it seemed as if he "gave up" on coach Bryon Scott last year in the playoffs. I also think New Orleans knows that this may be their last big push for awhile with Peja Stojakovic and Morris Peterson not getting any younger. Now the Scott and his team have no reason not to be the top five teams in the NBA Western Conference next season. I really like the make up of this team if they stay healthy.
The Bobcats now put themselves into the lower part of the Eastern Conference with this deal because Chandler hasnt been good without the likes of a CP3 and I highly doubt that D.J. Augustin will be that guy. Okafor in my opinion was a standout player for them more so than Gerald Wallace due to the fact he was drafted by the team. Including that he has stayed on the court for most of the year. Wallace now takes over the reins and tries to lead a young team to the playoffs which will be a feat in its own.
-Charlie.
The Hornets received a guy like Okafor who has been nothing short of great during his first couple years in Charlotte and that is with nobody helping him out. I expect Okafor if he stays healthy to be an All-Star next year with the tandem of Chris Paul passing you the ball, his numbers will be huge. In addition, I am sure this makes CP3 a very happy man after it seemed as if he "gave up" on coach Bryon Scott last year in the playoffs. I also think New Orleans knows that this may be their last big push for awhile with Peja Stojakovic and Morris Peterson not getting any younger. Now the Scott and his team have no reason not to be the top five teams in the NBA Western Conference next season. I really like the make up of this team if they stay healthy.
The Bobcats now put themselves into the lower part of the Eastern Conference with this deal because Chandler hasnt been good without the likes of a CP3 and I highly doubt that D.J. Augustin will be that guy. Okafor in my opinion was a standout player for them more so than Gerald Wallace due to the fact he was drafted by the team. Including that he has stayed on the court for most of the year. Wallace now takes over the reins and tries to lead a young team to the playoffs which will be a feat in its own.
-Charlie.
Here Comes The Champs...
As I said in the last post, its Fan Week here at Chucks Corner. If you want me to write about something you email me at tritscca@uwec.edu, facebook me at Chuck's Corner, or Tweet me at www.twitter.com/chuckscorner The other alternative is you see me in the fine city of Tosa or the greater Eastside of Milwaukee to tell me what to write about. My friend Votto requested a post about the Phillies (he writes a great blog and now have a live 24 hour video feed too, interview soon to come.)
Anyways he asked me to cover the Philadelphia Phillies and how they have decided to own the rest of the National League East in the last two weeks and to me there are a couple simple reasons why.
1. Jimmy Rollins- One of the best players in the game has been mired in an utter slump the whole season until the Phillies began this hot streak becoming world beaters again. Still only hitting .237 but that is an improvement from July fourth where his average was hovering around the .220s. He is the glue of this team in my opinion and it really becomes a problem when runners get on for Chase Utley and Ryan Howard.
2. We Just Hit Home Runs- While their pitching staff doesnt look that great right now then offense is probably the most potent unit in the big leagues. They have five guys that have over twenty homers which is pretty hard to pitch against. They cant pitch around Utley, Howard, or any of those guys which is completely frighting especially in the later innings of the game.
3. J.A. Happ- To me this is my Rookie of the Year so far in the National League. Happ stepped in right after Brett Myers was lost for the season and he has went 7-1 with about a 4.3 ERA so far this season. If Happ can continue to motor through the second half of the season like the first, the Phils would be in good shape. In addition, there is no way that he will be dealt in the "supposed-Halladay deal."
-Charlie.
Anyways he asked me to cover the Philadelphia Phillies and how they have decided to own the rest of the National League East in the last two weeks and to me there are a couple simple reasons why.
1. Jimmy Rollins- One of the best players in the game has been mired in an utter slump the whole season until the Phillies began this hot streak becoming world beaters again. Still only hitting .237 but that is an improvement from July fourth where his average was hovering around the .220s. He is the glue of this team in my opinion and it really becomes a problem when runners get on for Chase Utley and Ryan Howard.
2. We Just Hit Home Runs- While their pitching staff doesnt look that great right now then offense is probably the most potent unit in the big leagues. They have five guys that have over twenty homers which is pretty hard to pitch against. They cant pitch around Utley, Howard, or any of those guys which is completely frighting especially in the later innings of the game.
3. J.A. Happ- To me this is my Rookie of the Year so far in the National League. Happ stepped in right after Brett Myers was lost for the season and he has went 7-1 with about a 4.3 ERA so far this season. If Happ can continue to motor through the second half of the season like the first, the Phils would be in good shape. In addition, there is no way that he will be dealt in the "supposed-Halladay deal."
-Charlie.
Settle Down Sepi
I am calling this fan week on Chucks Corner. If you want me to write about something or you want a quote albeit it be something good like Seth or Votto you will get in there. Now I havent spoked to our only Toronto Blue Jays fan in the city of Wauwatosa, Sepi but I am sure he is on pins/needles about his boy Roy Halladay getting traded. I told him at the beginning of the year that this will happen but now I am here to tell you that it will not.
Now this might be the kiss of death because I have said multiple times that something will/will not happen therefore Halladay might get traded tomorrow for all I know. My thoughts on Halladay is that the Jays are trying to get too much out of teams right now for their possible suitors. They would like to get a shit ton of talent for Halladay who many could argue is best pitcher in our decade looking at stats alone although I have a problem saying that because he hasnt done anything in the postseason.
I think another reason why Halladay isnt going anywhere is the team who seemed to be the favorite has all the sudden caught steam in the past two weeks, the Philadelphia Phillies. Why do they need more pitching when they seem to be doing just fine without Doc? The only real reason is this year you might not get past Los Angeles due to Cole Hamels having a rough year plus other reasons. If they really want to repeat then they have to get Doc.
I mean if the Jays wanted this to happened, I think like CC Sabathia deal last year it would have happened already because they would have asked for a respectable amount for their guy. Toronto is really expecting teams to give up their best hitting and pitching prospects where I believe thats unrealistic to think a team will do that these days. Reason being is there is so much hype now made up about all of these stud prospects that rarely anyone wants to give up a "Hanley Ramirez-like" for a "Josh Beckett-like" player. Doc is staying in Canada, dont fret Sepi.
-Charlie.
Now this might be the kiss of death because I have said multiple times that something will/will not happen therefore Halladay might get traded tomorrow for all I know. My thoughts on Halladay is that the Jays are trying to get too much out of teams right now for their possible suitors. They would like to get a shit ton of talent for Halladay who many could argue is best pitcher in our decade looking at stats alone although I have a problem saying that because he hasnt done anything in the postseason.
I think another reason why Halladay isnt going anywhere is the team who seemed to be the favorite has all the sudden caught steam in the past two weeks, the Philadelphia Phillies. Why do they need more pitching when they seem to be doing just fine without Doc? The only real reason is this year you might not get past Los Angeles due to Cole Hamels having a rough year plus other reasons. If they really want to repeat then they have to get Doc.
I mean if the Jays wanted this to happened, I think like CC Sabathia deal last year it would have happened already because they would have asked for a respectable amount for their guy. Toronto is really expecting teams to give up their best hitting and pitching prospects where I believe thats unrealistic to think a team will do that these days. Reason being is there is so much hype now made up about all of these stud prospects that rarely anyone wants to give up a "Hanley Ramirez-like" for a "Josh Beckett-like" player. Doc is staying in Canada, dont fret Sepi.
-Charlie.
Oh God, Not These Guys Again.
Well there will be a Milwaukee Brewer pitching rant coming up sometime in the near future maybe later tonight or tomorrow who knows really. I truly hate writing about this shit because its disappointing to really see as a Brewer fan. But I feel there are couple of baseball related, including an NBA trade, then we will get on with the Crew. Anyways here we go...
I will be honest with you guys when it comes to the Chicago Cubs, I am asshole. I celebrated the fact we played one more game than the Cubs despite the fact we still lost in the first round. I am the same guy who laughed at my buddy Fant he was near tears in a hammered rant as the Chicago got swept. Like I said I am an asshole. But now after I have seen the Cubs take first place in late July and with the hopping idiot Alfonso Soriano hitting a grand slam to beat the Houston Astros in the 13th inning tonight, I am now officially scared.
They have definitely have got their shit together finally since the All-Star Break and you want a team that could pull away from this division, its the Cubs. I think you will all tell me that my head is buried in the media big chest like it was Keeley Hazel (you're welcome for that). Lets take a look here at their team... Aramis Ramirez is just getting back to full form and despite losing Ted Lilly for 15 days on the disabled list yet they get Ryan Demspter back. It seems like everyone ranging from Randy Wells to Kevin Hart these guys figure it out on the mound.
Not to mention, that their top five bullpen guys only one of their guys has a plus four earned run average. That is frightening to think about because even if one of their starters have a bad game, they seem to have enough in the bullpen. Therefore they have the pitching plus their hitting may start to figure it out.
Their only flaw is the away record (21-27) that might never change but if Chicago gets a couple sweeps here/there, it could become NL Central hell for all of us.
-Charlie.
I will be honest with you guys when it comes to the Chicago Cubs, I am asshole. I celebrated the fact we played one more game than the Cubs despite the fact we still lost in the first round. I am the same guy who laughed at my buddy Fant he was near tears in a hammered rant as the Chicago got swept. Like I said I am an asshole. But now after I have seen the Cubs take first place in late July and with the hopping idiot Alfonso Soriano hitting a grand slam to beat the Houston Astros in the 13th inning tonight, I am now officially scared.
They have definitely have got their shit together finally since the All-Star Break and you want a team that could pull away from this division, its the Cubs. I think you will all tell me that my head is buried in the media big chest like it was Keeley Hazel (you're welcome for that). Lets take a look here at their team... Aramis Ramirez is just getting back to full form and despite losing Ted Lilly for 15 days on the disabled list yet they get Ryan Demspter back. It seems like everyone ranging from Randy Wells to Kevin Hart these guys figure it out on the mound.
Not to mention, that their top five bullpen guys only one of their guys has a plus four earned run average. That is frightening to think about because even if one of their starters have a bad game, they seem to have enough in the bullpen. Therefore they have the pitching plus their hitting may start to figure it out.
Their only flaw is the away record (21-27) that might never change but if Chicago gets a couple sweeps here/there, it could become NL Central hell for all of us.
-Charlie.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Dear Ken...
I personally enjoy doing this due to the fact I like to go on rants once in awhile. Add to the fact I watch the Brewers tonight at Miller Park, it is time to go on a rant about Ned Yost er... Ken Macha. I am fed up with him but as 1250 AM in Milwaukee said maybe its our players although Macha is getting some blame from me right now.
1. Stop messing with the lineups: The one thing I hated about Ned Yost was the fact he always mixed up his lineups and never had a solid group of guys to go with. I honestly think it messes guys up by batting at different spots in the order. Why the hell is Jason Kendell hitting lead off? I mean cmon the guy doesnt steal bases and he doesnt hit as consistent as a lead off hitter should. Also just bat JJ Hardy at the two spot because right now he is useless anywhere else in the order.
2. Mike Rivera needs to catch more: I believe that the Brewers are true need of a shake up and with the Brewers giving up eight homers in the last two games. I really dont know who to blame at this point. Is it the pitchers or is in the catcher? Who knows at this point really, the only way to decide it if Rivera gets more time.
3. Lets see who sucks the most: I blame the Admiral for the lack of title but seriously Macha threw out the worst possible lineup of pitchers you could ask for tonight. In a night where we needed a win more than almost ever before. Macha trots out Parra (with Kendall which is a disaster in waiting), Carlos Villanueva, Chris Smith (I like him personally but as Bailey said "Mostly in mop-up situations"), Seth McClung, and Mitch Stetter (He is very good). You needed a win tonight yet you send out this awful pitching staff.
4. Tomorrow is a must win: We cannot go under .500 and we have Yovani Gallardo despite his struggles lately is our stopper. He needs to be the man tomorrow and the phenom known as Tommy Hanson is due for a bad start. Prince Fielder will have a great game after his four strikeouts and maybe will spark a rally.
Then again who knows its the Brewers.
-Charlie.
1. Stop messing with the lineups: The one thing I hated about Ned Yost was the fact he always mixed up his lineups and never had a solid group of guys to go with. I honestly think it messes guys up by batting at different spots in the order. Why the hell is Jason Kendell hitting lead off? I mean cmon the guy doesnt steal bases and he doesnt hit as consistent as a lead off hitter should. Also just bat JJ Hardy at the two spot because right now he is useless anywhere else in the order.
2. Mike Rivera needs to catch more: I believe that the Brewers are true need of a shake up and with the Brewers giving up eight homers in the last two games. I really dont know who to blame at this point. Is it the pitchers or is in the catcher? Who knows at this point really, the only way to decide it if Rivera gets more time.
3. Lets see who sucks the most: I blame the Admiral for the lack of title but seriously Macha threw out the worst possible lineup of pitchers you could ask for tonight. In a night where we needed a win more than almost ever before. Macha trots out Parra (with Kendall which is a disaster in waiting), Carlos Villanueva, Chris Smith (I like him personally but as Bailey said "Mostly in mop-up situations"), Seth McClung, and Mitch Stetter (He is very good). You needed a win tonight yet you send out this awful pitching staff.
4. Tomorrow is a must win: We cannot go under .500 and we have Yovani Gallardo despite his struggles lately is our stopper. He needs to be the man tomorrow and the phenom known as Tommy Hanson is due for a bad start. Prince Fielder will have a great game after his four strikeouts and maybe will spark a rally.
Then again who knows its the Brewers.
-Charlie.
My Worst Nightmare
This was probably the worst thing I could have ask for today. I was at a Friday Field Trip with my work when I was aware that the St. Louis Cardinals have traded for Matt Holiday. I told my friend Andy who alerted me of the news "I am now going to drown myself in the wave pool, you will not see me again."
As you can see I havent drown myself but seriously this is possibly the worst thing Milwaukee Brewer fans could ask for (it has gotten worse more on that in the next post). They now have protection for Albert Pujols and Holiday has been proven against National League pitching (he went 4 for 5 tonight). Like I said before, this is just a complete disaster for the Brewers and honestly, the St. Louis Cardinals might have pull away from the division with this move.
I dont care that the Houston Astros are hot right now and the Chicago Cubs are starting to get their shit together. This makes the Cards so much better than anyone else in the Central Division. In addition, if St. Louis stays away from injuries to their starting pitching this makes them a legit World Series contender. Put yourself in this situation if you are the closer and you have to face the 1-2-3 part of the Cardinal order now you cannot pitch around Albert because you have Holiday right there. It becomes very scary.
The Cardinals did give up a lot to the Oakland Athletics who once get great in the majors will trade away to New York or Boston. It doesnt matter because at this point, St Louis knew if they got protection for Pujols they could become a complete force.
-Charlie.
As you can see I havent drown myself but seriously this is possibly the worst thing Milwaukee Brewer fans could ask for (it has gotten worse more on that in the next post). They now have protection for Albert Pujols and Holiday has been proven against National League pitching (he went 4 for 5 tonight). Like I said before, this is just a complete disaster for the Brewers and honestly, the St. Louis Cardinals might have pull away from the division with this move.
I dont care that the Houston Astros are hot right now and the Chicago Cubs are starting to get their shit together. This makes the Cards so much better than anyone else in the Central Division. In addition, if St. Louis stays away from injuries to their starting pitching this makes them a legit World Series contender. Put yourself in this situation if you are the closer and you have to face the 1-2-3 part of the Cardinal order now you cannot pitch around Albert because you have Holiday right there. It becomes very scary.
The Cardinals did give up a lot to the Oakland Athletics who once get great in the majors will trade away to New York or Boston. It doesnt matter because at this point, St Louis knew if they got protection for Pujols they could become a complete force.
-Charlie.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
BoSox Makes Less than Stellar Deals
If you havent seen the American East Standings which you probably have because well ESPN shows them about every five minutes (but they make 4 days for the Big Ben story, hmmm) the Red Sox have fallen out of first place. They got swept by the Texas Rangers now trailing the hated New York Yankees by two games. Therefore they wanted to make some deals so they got some guys who really wont help them that much.
They get Adam LaRoche who has hit twenty homers all year but he usually hits only .250 or so. I dont understand why the Red Sox feel that LaRoche is going to be a savior for Boston's offense. He will give them a couple more home runs than Mark Kotsay although he is going to give you the same production when he hits the ball. I think what it all comes down to is the Red Sox settled for LaRoche. Rumor had it according to Peter Gammons, Boston could of had Victor Martinez for only Clay Buchholz. Are you kidding me? Victor Martinez would be an awesome fit for the Red Sox and would have also made sure Jason Vartiek got quality rest plus they would get a solid first basemen. Instead, its Adam LaRoche, good luck with that one.
In addition, our friends from Pittsburgh once again made a deal for the third time this season and you can only wonder why Freddy Sanchez/Jack Wilson do not want to sign extensions with this team. Garrett Jones seems to be this unreal power hitter but why not wait til the end of the year to deal LaRoche to guarantee that this hot streak by Jones wont come to a crashing halt. I wouldnt be surprised if Pittsburgh decided to deal some more guys before the week is done.
Boston also got Chris Duncan from the St. Louis Cardinals for Julio Lugo which really is two teams trading away players that never lived up to their potential when they were brought in/up.
-Charlie.
They get Adam LaRoche who has hit twenty homers all year but he usually hits only .250 or so. I dont understand why the Red Sox feel that LaRoche is going to be a savior for Boston's offense. He will give them a couple more home runs than Mark Kotsay although he is going to give you the same production when he hits the ball. I think what it all comes down to is the Red Sox settled for LaRoche. Rumor had it according to Peter Gammons, Boston could of had Victor Martinez for only Clay Buchholz. Are you kidding me? Victor Martinez would be an awesome fit for the Red Sox and would have also made sure Jason Vartiek got quality rest plus they would get a solid first basemen. Instead, its Adam LaRoche, good luck with that one.
In addition, our friends from Pittsburgh once again made a deal for the third time this season and you can only wonder why Freddy Sanchez/Jack Wilson do not want to sign extensions with this team. Garrett Jones seems to be this unreal power hitter but why not wait til the end of the year to deal LaRoche to guarantee that this hot streak by Jones wont come to a crashing halt. I wouldnt be surprised if Pittsburgh decided to deal some more guys before the week is done.
Boston also got Chris Duncan from the St. Louis Cardinals for Julio Lugo which really is two teams trading away players that never lived up to their potential when they were brought in/up.
-Charlie.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Big Ben in Big Trouble and ESPN Seems to Care Less
Well look what we have here. One of the biggest quarterbacks in the National Football League, Ben Roethlisberger of the Pittsburgh Steelers is getting sued by a Harrah's casino worker Andrea McNaulty for sexually assaulting her last year. This to me is a big fat rut-roh for the Steeler fans out there but it does make me wonder why criminal charges havent been filed if the victim is so sure of the crime.
Here is her story via Yahoo where they run stories like this instead of ESPN who decides that it wouldnt be good if they ran this as the lead article on ESPN.com. Thats amazing to me when you have one of the top five recognizable quarterbacks in the NFL and there is no coverage on ESPN about Big Ben. Not even on its NFL page is there an article for Big Ben and to me if this was Terrell Owens, Chad OchoCinco, or even Tony Romo I think that ESPN has multiple stories about this. Think back to when this happened to Kobe Bryant and how ESPN was all over that story for months slowly but surely ruining his image. Why hasnt the same been done to Big Ben? Is it because its only a civil suit? To me thats bullshit and this still needs to be cover.
Here is what she claims...
"The lawsuit said he grabbed her and started to kiss her. It said she was “shocked and stunned that this previously friendly man, that appeared to be a gentleman in her previous contacts with hi“
But instead of stopping, Roethlisberger began fondling plaintiff through her dress and between her legs,” the suit said. He then “held her against her will and physically moved plaintiff and pushed her onto his bed” where he raped her, the suit says.
She told him, “You don’t want to do this,” and begged him “I am not on any type of birth control.”m was suddenly preventing her from leaving, was assaulting her and battering her"
Also in the article, she is suing the hotel claiming they told her to cover this up because the owner was good friends with Big Ben and didnt want this getting out. My question is why arent there criminal charges and also why is there only 440,000 dollars being filed? Maybe she doesnt want to sound crazy when McNulty enters the court room and wants to make this look as legitimate as possible. Maybe the criminal charges will come later on if they find out that this is alot more to this story.
I do not believe the NFL will do anything about this until they decided whether the criminal charges are filed or McNaulty wins the suit. If she does then Big Ben has to be suspended for awhile or commissioner Roger Goodell will be dealing with all the womens groups about why he isnt suspended. It will be interesting to follow this story.
All I ask for is that the wrath of ESPN comes down on Big Ben because it would be a double standard if nothing comes of this. Even if this proves to be completely false, it still went through the courts and is being talked about by every major radio show. You gotta do it ESPN.
-Charlie.
Here is her story via Yahoo where they run stories like this instead of ESPN who decides that it wouldnt be good if they ran this as the lead article on ESPN.com. Thats amazing to me when you have one of the top five recognizable quarterbacks in the NFL and there is no coverage on ESPN about Big Ben. Not even on its NFL page is there an article for Big Ben and to me if this was Terrell Owens, Chad OchoCinco, or even Tony Romo I think that ESPN has multiple stories about this. Think back to when this happened to Kobe Bryant and how ESPN was all over that story for months slowly but surely ruining his image. Why hasnt the same been done to Big Ben? Is it because its only a civil suit? To me thats bullshit and this still needs to be cover.
Here is what she claims...
"The lawsuit said he grabbed her and started to kiss her. It said she was “shocked and stunned that this previously friendly man, that appeared to be a gentleman in her previous contacts with hi“
But instead of stopping, Roethlisberger began fondling plaintiff through her dress and between her legs,” the suit said. He then “held her against her will and physically moved plaintiff and pushed her onto his bed” where he raped her, the suit says.
She told him, “You don’t want to do this,” and begged him “I am not on any type of birth control.”m was suddenly preventing her from leaving, was assaulting her and battering her"
Also in the article, she is suing the hotel claiming they told her to cover this up because the owner was good friends with Big Ben and didnt want this getting out. My question is why arent there criminal charges and also why is there only 440,000 dollars being filed? Maybe she doesnt want to sound crazy when McNulty enters the court room and wants to make this look as legitimate as possible. Maybe the criminal charges will come later on if they find out that this is alot more to this story.
I do not believe the NFL will do anything about this until they decided whether the criminal charges are filed or McNaulty wins the suit. If she does then Big Ben has to be suspended for awhile or commissioner Roger Goodell will be dealing with all the womens groups about why he isnt suspended. It will be interesting to follow this story.
All I ask for is that the wrath of ESPN comes down on Big Ben because it would be a double standard if nothing comes of this. Even if this proves to be completely false, it still went through the courts and is being talked about by every major radio show. You gotta do it ESPN.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Screw Off Pittsburgh
Well here I go taking a swing at another city and I dont really need the backlash that Lexington gave me although I really feel this is needed. I have to be honest the city of Pittsburgh in terms of sports bothers me. I have never been to Pittsburgh therefore I am not going to rip the actual city but there is something about your football especially the baseball team.
I respect the Pittsburgh Steelers for sure. They have built franchises the right way with drafting players and making them into superstars. In addition, they have paved the way for getting minority coaches a chance at getting head coaches spot in the NFL. BUT they always get on the 3:15 spot on CBS/FOX including some NBC/ESPN spots during the year. I mean it gets sickening to see them always on TV and I personally like to watch a variety of teams throughout the year. Also the Pittsburgh Penguins are fine with me with Sid "the Kid" Crosby and I was happy to see them get the title over the vaunted Detroit Red Wings.
Here is where I draw the line: the Pittsburgh Pirates, their players and fans alike are bunch of idiots. First off all, tell me the last time you guys made it to the playoffs (I know we had a long drought to but hey we were there last year!). Then I would like to ask how did you get Sloth from the Goonies(credited to Ron via Brewerfan) aka Jeff Karstens to pitch for your team? In addition why is Karstens such a baby back bitch?
If you are wondering where all this hate is coming from in the 8th inning when Karstens stepped up the plate, Chris Smith like any true American hit Karstens for plunking Ryan Braun in the ribs during April. Karstens wasnt happy and made an attempt to attack Smith until supreme badass Jason Kendall stopped him in his tracks. This led to the bullpens clearing where they discussed their weekends. Also it led to Kendall and Pirates pitching coach John Kerrigan going at it in which Prince Fielder had to drag Kendall from attacking Old Man River. Kendall in the papers today pronounced his name Dave Kerwin even after being told otherwise.
I can understand Pittsburgh being a bit upset but they have lost to the Brewers seventeen straight times before winning last night. The Crew has taken the last 19 of 21 against the Bucos as well. Why do these ass clowns continue to feel that they are the same level as the Brewers. Granted the Crew is not playing good ball and they are one lost away from .500 for the first time in a long while. But this is exactly what the Brewers needed.
They were getting punked and now they been punked by the last place team in the NL Central for the longest time. That should piss them off and the bats should awake with fury for the next couple of weeks. Alot like the Manny Parra/Fielder brawl last year, I hope it sparks a huge run for the Crew and we destroy the Pirate ship these next two days.
-Charlie.
I respect the Pittsburgh Steelers for sure. They have built franchises the right way with drafting players and making them into superstars. In addition, they have paved the way for getting minority coaches a chance at getting head coaches spot in the NFL. BUT they always get on the 3:15 spot on CBS/FOX including some NBC/ESPN spots during the year. I mean it gets sickening to see them always on TV and I personally like to watch a variety of teams throughout the year. Also the Pittsburgh Penguins are fine with me with Sid "the Kid" Crosby and I was happy to see them get the title over the vaunted Detroit Red Wings.
Here is where I draw the line: the Pittsburgh Pirates, their players and fans alike are bunch of idiots. First off all, tell me the last time you guys made it to the playoffs (I know we had a long drought to but hey we were there last year!). Then I would like to ask how did you get Sloth from the Goonies(credited to Ron via Brewerfan) aka Jeff Karstens to pitch for your team? In addition why is Karstens such a baby back bitch?
If you are wondering where all this hate is coming from in the 8th inning when Karstens stepped up the plate, Chris Smith like any true American hit Karstens for plunking Ryan Braun in the ribs during April. Karstens wasnt happy and made an attempt to attack Smith until supreme badass Jason Kendall stopped him in his tracks. This led to the bullpens clearing where they discussed their weekends. Also it led to Kendall and Pirates pitching coach John Kerrigan going at it in which Prince Fielder had to drag Kendall from attacking Old Man River. Kendall in the papers today pronounced his name Dave Kerwin even after being told otherwise.
I can understand Pittsburgh being a bit upset but they have lost to the Brewers seventeen straight times before winning last night. The Crew has taken the last 19 of 21 against the Bucos as well. Why do these ass clowns continue to feel that they are the same level as the Brewers. Granted the Crew is not playing good ball and they are one lost away from .500 for the first time in a long while. But this is exactly what the Brewers needed.
They were getting punked and now they been punked by the last place team in the NL Central for the longest time. That should piss them off and the bats should awake with fury for the next couple of weeks. Alot like the Manny Parra/Fielder brawl last year, I hope it sparks a huge run for the Crew and we destroy the Pirate ship these next two days.
-Charlie.
Suns Gave an Extension to the Wrong Guy
The Phoenix Suns at the beginning of the off season looked like complete sellers by trading Shaquille O'Neal to Cleveland Cavaliers for basically a bunch of expiring contracts and then there were rumors that Amare Stoudamire might get moved to Golden State for a lot of young players with light money. Now they decided to give an extension to the two-time MVP Steve Nash for two years. What the hell?
I understand that Nash has had some great years at Phoenix and is a fan favorite of the Suns although he is past his prime. Nash's points per game has dropped in the last two years therefore that is something to worry about if you are giving a guy an extension. In addition his minutes have dropped a bit too showing maybe there are signs of wearing down.
The other thing I do not get about their cheapskate owner Mr. Robert Sarver is why add years on to Nash if there wasnt an intent to make sure that Stoudamire stays on the squad for at least three to five years past this upcoming season. I would have made sure that Stoudamire was protected for the next couple of years and then maybe Phoenix deals Nash for a bunch of young players to build with Amare.
If I was a Suns fan this might scare me. They might let Nash ride off into the sunset and just have a young players around him if they deal Amare. Which leads to see maybe they can get to the playoffs with Nash and the young guns.
-Charlie.
I understand that Nash has had some great years at Phoenix and is a fan favorite of the Suns although he is past his prime. Nash's points per game has dropped in the last two years therefore that is something to worry about if you are giving a guy an extension. In addition his minutes have dropped a bit too showing maybe there are signs of wearing down.
The other thing I do not get about their cheapskate owner Mr. Robert Sarver is why add years on to Nash if there wasnt an intent to make sure that Stoudamire stays on the squad for at least three to five years past this upcoming season. I would have made sure that Stoudamire was protected for the next couple of years and then maybe Phoenix deals Nash for a bunch of young players to build with Amare.
If I was a Suns fan this might scare me. They might let Nash ride off into the sunset and just have a young players around him if they deal Amare. Which leads to see maybe they can get to the playoffs with Nash and the young guns.
-Charlie.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Comin' in Hot, Leavin' Cold Interview: Mitch Pratt
Mr. Pratt, Thank you for doing the first "Comin in Hot, Leavin Cold" interview. He writes two blogs and is probably in my top three favorite people to talk sports with overall.
MP: Well, thanks Chuck. I'm honored to be a part of the inaugural session of this new segment. We'll have to work on that title but for now, it'll do. I've been slacking mightily in my posting, but I'll right the ship sooner or later.
1. First off, whats your overall thoughts on the Brewers so far?
My overall thoughts on the Brewers are that I am very surprised at the notion that the bullpen has probably been a strength of the team over the first half of the season. We all knew that Braun and Fielder would be good (I didn't think Fielder was going to do this well). Casey McGehee has been a quiet but great addition, and the best part is that he was a Cub last year and they could use the offense at this point. I think that the starting pitching could be better but it is what it is. Manny Parra hopefully got rid of his cranial rectumitis in Triple-A and can be a decent addition to the rotation. Yo needs to quit walking so many guys and he'll be alright. I think that the All-Star break couldn't have come at a better time Chuck. We just got the cream of the NL crop dumped on us at the end of the first half here, but now we get some bunnies to get us back on top of the NL Central
2. Do you agree that Ken Macha screws with the lineup so much that his name should be Ned Yost?
I like that Kenny has been jumbling the lineup. Putting Jason Kendall at leadoff is a bit of a stretch but in a way, it's better than having a guaranteed out right before the pitcher. He's just trying to find the right combo of guys in front of Braun and Fielder
3. One Brewer that needs to have a great second half?
One Brewer that needs to have a great second half would be, ya boy, Corey Hart. He needs to step it up a notch because my patience is wearing thin with him my friend. It would be nice to see McGehee have a good second half as well.
4. Do we make a move or do you we sell any of our guys?
Honestly Chuck, I can't really answer that at this point. I think we could go either way. But, if you put a gun to my head and asked again, I would say that we are a buyer at the deadline, and you have to figure that it will be a starting pitcher
5. Speaking of trades, who do you feel is the biggest name that gets traded before the July deadline?
I think you have to go with Roy Halladay there. If not Halladay, I've heard the Giants are done with Zito. Maybe someone from Arizona...Dan Haren? Otherwise I haven't heard of too much being out there currently.
6. Who do you like for the World Series and do you see the Brewers getting back to the playoffs
Wow. I think for a World Series matchup, you certainly have to look at the Red Sux as a contender from the AL. Pitching is incredibly deep and the hitting is no issue either. The Dodgers are pretty much unbeatable and they're having fun in the process. It's just something that Manny brings that keeps the team loose and relaxed. As for the Brewers, I hate to say it, but it's looking more and more bleek as the losses pile up. I'll have to take a rain check on that one.
7. Whats your thoughts on the Richard Jefferson situation and what would you do with a black AMEX card in NYC?
I have no clue what you're talking about in the second part of that question (obviously Mitch doesnt read my articles, joking haha), but as for the Jefferson trade...I like it. It frees up the money situation and the scoring situation. You can't have a team with two "high scorers" and Michael Redd is just that for the Bucks, it's his team. The move also means that we can get Joe Alexander a fair shake for the upcoming season as he may be the starter and the small forward
8. Continuing on with the NBA theme, who has done the best job this offseason and who has made themselves even worse.
I think that you have to look at the Lakers getting even better with the Ron Artest signing. He can guard the best opposing player and then Kobe can get a slight break on the defensive side of the court. I think the Rockets have made themselves worse. They have only one Center on the roster and he will likely be out for the year. They signed Trevor Ariza to a big-time deal and he is barely anything more than a role player, but we will see.
9. Thoughts/Feelings on Brandon Jennings?
Initially, I was a tad upset with the pick, but after I thought about it, I am happy with it. He is a hella quick point guard who just needs to build up an NBA body. If he could bring back the flat top for a game or two that would be fantastic as well
10. Now you are a Bay Area fan and Oregon Duck fan, care to explain where the love came for all of these teams?
I want to clear the record and say that I am NOT a "Bay Area fan." I like the Oakland Raiders, yes. I have always liked the Oakland A's. Tim Lincecum is God's gift to pitching and he plays in San Fran. Patrick Willis is a God amongst mere mortals and he plays in San Fran as well. Anyway, I have just within the past few years clung to the Raiders for some reason. Growing up, I never clung to the Packers, so I don't know. I absolutely watch every game of the Green and Gold, and it will be a sight when Brett comes back to Lambeau in purple eh? As for Oregon, well, I've been enjoying watching that offense since my younger days. Obviously, the jersey can grab a blind man's attention, but I like the older one's better i.e., the Kellen Clemens and Tim Day era. Then , when I went out to Eugene, it was like a dream come true man, walked on the field and errthang.
12. In your opinion, who would you rather have do well: Raiders or the Ducks
I'd probably rather have Oregon do well. I like USC just as much as the next guy but Jesus, wouldn't it be nice to see someone else win it in our lifetime? Of course, it would be nice to see the Raiders pull a 10-6 season out and really give those Chargeless fans something to cry about.
13. You live in Wausau and are making the big move down by me to go to Milwaukee, excited, worried? What are your thoughts on living in metropolitan city for the first time.
Yeh, makin' the big move is right. I've already lived on my own but that was only 20 minutes away, not 3 hours. It'll be fine though, I'll have Koz and Curly with me. Couldn't ask for a more chill group of guys. Naturally I'm excited. Can't wait for the big two one can ya? Me neither Chucky, me neither.
14. Finally tell us all about what you work on and send us the links so all the Chucks Corner's readers can follow you
Well, one of my works is more of a work of random things such as music that I'm into and random sports things http://lifeonstandby.tumblr.com/. The other is one that is totally devoted to all that is the Milwaukee Brewers, I've been doing nothing with that recently. I think that's just because we've struggled so bad of late. http://milwaukeesbest.tumblr.com/
Thanks Mitch.
-Charlie.
MP: Well, thanks Chuck. I'm honored to be a part of the inaugural session of this new segment. We'll have to work on that title but for now, it'll do. I've been slacking mightily in my posting, but I'll right the ship sooner or later.
1. First off, whats your overall thoughts on the Brewers so far?
My overall thoughts on the Brewers are that I am very surprised at the notion that the bullpen has probably been a strength of the team over the first half of the season. We all knew that Braun and Fielder would be good (I didn't think Fielder was going to do this well). Casey McGehee has been a quiet but great addition, and the best part is that he was a Cub last year and they could use the offense at this point. I think that the starting pitching could be better but it is what it is. Manny Parra hopefully got rid of his cranial rectumitis in Triple-A and can be a decent addition to the rotation. Yo needs to quit walking so many guys and he'll be alright. I think that the All-Star break couldn't have come at a better time Chuck. We just got the cream of the NL crop dumped on us at the end of the first half here, but now we get some bunnies to get us back on top of the NL Central
2. Do you agree that Ken Macha screws with the lineup so much that his name should be Ned Yost?
I like that Kenny has been jumbling the lineup. Putting Jason Kendall at leadoff is a bit of a stretch but in a way, it's better than having a guaranteed out right before the pitcher. He's just trying to find the right combo of guys in front of Braun and Fielder
3. One Brewer that needs to have a great second half?
One Brewer that needs to have a great second half would be, ya boy, Corey Hart. He needs to step it up a notch because my patience is wearing thin with him my friend. It would be nice to see McGehee have a good second half as well.
4. Do we make a move or do you we sell any of our guys?
Honestly Chuck, I can't really answer that at this point. I think we could go either way. But, if you put a gun to my head and asked again, I would say that we are a buyer at the deadline, and you have to figure that it will be a starting pitcher
5. Speaking of trades, who do you feel is the biggest name that gets traded before the July deadline?
I think you have to go with Roy Halladay there. If not Halladay, I've heard the Giants are done with Zito. Maybe someone from Arizona...Dan Haren? Otherwise I haven't heard of too much being out there currently.
6. Who do you like for the World Series and do you see the Brewers getting back to the playoffs
Wow. I think for a World Series matchup, you certainly have to look at the Red Sux as a contender from the AL. Pitching is incredibly deep and the hitting is no issue either. The Dodgers are pretty much unbeatable and they're having fun in the process. It's just something that Manny brings that keeps the team loose and relaxed. As for the Brewers, I hate to say it, but it's looking more and more bleek as the losses pile up. I'll have to take a rain check on that one.
7. Whats your thoughts on the Richard Jefferson situation and what would you do with a black AMEX card in NYC?
I have no clue what you're talking about in the second part of that question (obviously Mitch doesnt read my articles, joking haha), but as for the Jefferson trade...I like it. It frees up the money situation and the scoring situation. You can't have a team with two "high scorers" and Michael Redd is just that for the Bucks, it's his team. The move also means that we can get Joe Alexander a fair shake for the upcoming season as he may be the starter and the small forward
8. Continuing on with the NBA theme, who has done the best job this offseason and who has made themselves even worse.
I think that you have to look at the Lakers getting even better with the Ron Artest signing. He can guard the best opposing player and then Kobe can get a slight break on the defensive side of the court. I think the Rockets have made themselves worse. They have only one Center on the roster and he will likely be out for the year. They signed Trevor Ariza to a big-time deal and he is barely anything more than a role player, but we will see.
9. Thoughts/Feelings on Brandon Jennings?
Initially, I was a tad upset with the pick, but after I thought about it, I am happy with it. He is a hella quick point guard who just needs to build up an NBA body. If he could bring back the flat top for a game or two that would be fantastic as well
10. Now you are a Bay Area fan and Oregon Duck fan, care to explain where the love came for all of these teams?
I want to clear the record and say that I am NOT a "Bay Area fan." I like the Oakland Raiders, yes. I have always liked the Oakland A's. Tim Lincecum is God's gift to pitching and he plays in San Fran. Patrick Willis is a God amongst mere mortals and he plays in San Fran as well. Anyway, I have just within the past few years clung to the Raiders for some reason. Growing up, I never clung to the Packers, so I don't know. I absolutely watch every game of the Green and Gold, and it will be a sight when Brett comes back to Lambeau in purple eh? As for Oregon, well, I've been enjoying watching that offense since my younger days. Obviously, the jersey can grab a blind man's attention, but I like the older one's better i.e., the Kellen Clemens and Tim Day era. Then , when I went out to Eugene, it was like a dream come true man, walked on the field and errthang.
12. In your opinion, who would you rather have do well: Raiders or the Ducks
I'd probably rather have Oregon do well. I like USC just as much as the next guy but Jesus, wouldn't it be nice to see someone else win it in our lifetime? Of course, it would be nice to see the Raiders pull a 10-6 season out and really give those Chargeless fans something to cry about.
13. You live in Wausau and are making the big move down by me to go to Milwaukee, excited, worried? What are your thoughts on living in metropolitan city for the first time.
Yeh, makin' the big move is right. I've already lived on my own but that was only 20 minutes away, not 3 hours. It'll be fine though, I'll have Koz and Curly with me. Couldn't ask for a more chill group of guys. Naturally I'm excited. Can't wait for the big two one can ya? Me neither Chucky, me neither.
14. Finally tell us all about what you work on and send us the links so all the Chucks Corner's readers can follow you
Well, one of my works is more of a work of random things such as music that I'm into and random sports things http://lifeonstandby.tumblr.com/. The other is one that is totally devoted to all that is the Milwaukee Brewers, I've been doing nothing with that recently. I think that's just because we've struggled so bad of late. http://milwaukeesbest.tumblr.com/
Thanks Mitch.
-Charlie.
Finally a Lead-Off Hitter But Goodbye to the Ganimal
The Milwaukee Brewers decided to make a deal in July once again but this time it isnt as extreme as CC Sabathia although this does have a lot of promise. The Brewers acquire Felipe Lopez from the Arizona Diamondbacks for minor leaguers Cole Gillespie and Roque Mercedes. My initial thoughts of the deal: Very good.
A couple reasons why this is a great trade for the Crew is it gives them a true lead off hitter like they had during Rickie Weeks' tear throughout the month of May and thats when the Brewers were at their best. Yes he cannot steal bases like a lead off hitter but he does know how to get on base. When you have your lead off hitter on that paves the way for Ryan Braun (whenever he decides to get out of his slump) and Prince Fielder to drive them in. The other great thing about Lopez is the fact he is a switch-hitter with stats on both sides being rather even therefore we will not have to worry about left-handed pitchers.
In addition, it will also be interesting to see what Macha does with his lineup. I am assuming he goes... Lopez-Cameron-Braun-Fielder-McGehee-Hart-Hardy-Kendall-Pitcher. I think you have to go with the combination of Hart/Hardy together, they just seem to gel together when they bat next to each other. Although you could put Hardy in the second spot or Hart bat fifth. I am sure Macha will flip the lineup around until he gets comfortable.
He also can play three positions in the infield and a bit of outfield which means that Craig Counsull and Casey McGehee will both be able to get some time with Mat Gamel going down to AAA. Most fans are upset about this but Gamel has struck out an alarming forty-six times already therefore he needs to become more patient at the plate.
Even if this becomes a bad deal, we only have Lopez for July-October at most or if he has a great time then maybe he will stay a bit longer.
-Charlie.
A couple reasons why this is a great trade for the Crew is it gives them a true lead off hitter like they had during Rickie Weeks' tear throughout the month of May and thats when the Brewers were at their best. Yes he cannot steal bases like a lead off hitter but he does know how to get on base. When you have your lead off hitter on that paves the way for Ryan Braun (whenever he decides to get out of his slump) and Prince Fielder to drive them in. The other great thing about Lopez is the fact he is a switch-hitter with stats on both sides being rather even therefore we will not have to worry about left-handed pitchers.
In addition, it will also be interesting to see what Macha does with his lineup. I am assuming he goes... Lopez-Cameron-Braun-Fielder-McGehee-Hart-Hardy-Kendall-Pitcher. I think you have to go with the combination of Hart/Hardy together, they just seem to gel together when they bat next to each other. Although you could put Hardy in the second spot or Hart bat fifth. I am sure Macha will flip the lineup around until he gets comfortable.
He also can play three positions in the infield and a bit of outfield which means that Craig Counsull and Casey McGehee will both be able to get some time with Mat Gamel going down to AAA. Most fans are upset about this but Gamel has struck out an alarming forty-six times already therefore he needs to become more patient at the plate.
Even if this becomes a bad deal, we only have Lopez for July-October at most or if he has a great time then maybe he will stay a bit longer.
-Charlie.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Stewart Cink: Here to Rain on Your Parade
Today was supposed to be the day that one of the greatest sports upsets was supposed to happen. It had appeared that Tom Waston at the ripe age of fifty-nine was going to take his sixth British Open crown and maybe go down as the best links player ever. In addition, he would save this weekend at Turnberry after Tiger Woods failed to make the cut for only the fifth time in his career. That all came to a crashing halt for Waston on the 72nd hole.
Watson bogeyed the final hole with an awful miss from six feet away from the hole and like we all know in golf when the wheels starting falling off they usually come off completely. That is exactly what happened with Waston today as Stewart Cink laid in the weeds playing good golf with a one under 69 forcing a four hole playoff.
Cink then did what he did all day, played consistent while Watson was spraying the ball left and right looking like he didnt belong for the first time all weekend at Turnberry with the Scots all groaning in despair that their hero of thirty-three years ago run was finally coming to an end.
People are trying to say that Cink is a bad guy for wrecking sports dreams but to be honest, he is one of the classiest guys on the PGA Tour. I have never heard a bad word about Cink and is the type of guy that you want to see win a major in his lifetime. Therefore I hope Stewart doesnt get beat up for being a competitor and not just lying down for one of the greats.
-Charlie.
Watson bogeyed the final hole with an awful miss from six feet away from the hole and like we all know in golf when the wheels starting falling off they usually come off completely. That is exactly what happened with Waston today as Stewart Cink laid in the weeds playing good golf with a one under 69 forcing a four hole playoff.
Cink then did what he did all day, played consistent while Watson was spraying the ball left and right looking like he didnt belong for the first time all weekend at Turnberry with the Scots all groaning in despair that their hero of thirty-three years ago run was finally coming to an end.
People are trying to say that Cink is a bad guy for wrecking sports dreams but to be honest, he is one of the classiest guys on the PGA Tour. I have never heard a bad word about Cink and is the type of guy that you want to see win a major in his lifetime. Therefore I hope Stewart doesnt get beat up for being a competitor and not just lying down for one of the greats.
-Charlie.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
500 Post!!! and Big Trouble in La La Land with LO
First off this is the big 500 which means we are have way to 1000. Like I said in the BDay post we are trying to improve the blog in any way we can and I can only hope this takes off like I want it do. Lets go down to the story...
This is once again a big fat rut-roh for the city of Los Angeles (two in one week that some sort of a record especially that it is for two different teams in the same area yet same sport). The Lakers decided to pull their contract for Lamar Odom because neither side can come to a deal to agree on. That is big time trouble for the Lakers and I have no idea why Odom thinks he will get more money elsewhere.
We have joked a bunch about Odom's comment about loving being by a beach and the fact of the matter is he will not find that unless he goes to the Clippers or back to Miami where he got in a ton of trouble in South Beach. Therefore every other team in basketball believes he will be unhappy if goes to their team. He basically screwed himself the opportunity of a team taking a chance on him giving him for money then the Lakeshow.
The other thing that doesnt make sense about Odom is the fact of the matter that he seems to the suddle leader of the team. Yes Kobe Bryant is first in command but I think many of the guys on the team enjoy Odom's light humor. In addition, much was made about Ron Artest and him playing in the playgrounds in New York City and the fact they are good buddies. Why would you want to leave this city Lamar?
With all this being said, I cant really blame the Lakers for low-balling Odom. They dont have the money to pay what Odom wants although they expect him to understand in order to get back-to-back titles. If the Lakers dont have Odom next year, I think they become lower on the totem pole in the Western Conference with the Spurs being the best team there.
-Charlie.
This is once again a big fat rut-roh for the city of Los Angeles (two in one week that some sort of a record especially that it is for two different teams in the same area yet same sport). The Lakers decided to pull their contract for Lamar Odom because neither side can come to a deal to agree on. That is big time trouble for the Lakers and I have no idea why Odom thinks he will get more money elsewhere.
We have joked a bunch about Odom's comment about loving being by a beach and the fact of the matter is he will not find that unless he goes to the Clippers or back to Miami where he got in a ton of trouble in South Beach. Therefore every other team in basketball believes he will be unhappy if goes to their team. He basically screwed himself the opportunity of a team taking a chance on him giving him for money then the Lakeshow.
The other thing that doesnt make sense about Odom is the fact of the matter that he seems to the suddle leader of the team. Yes Kobe Bryant is first in command but I think many of the guys on the team enjoy Odom's light humor. In addition, much was made about Ron Artest and him playing in the playgrounds in New York City and the fact they are good buddies. Why would you want to leave this city Lamar?
With all this being said, I cant really blame the Lakers for low-balling Odom. They dont have the money to pay what Odom wants although they expect him to understand in order to get back-to-back titles. If the Lakers dont have Odom next year, I think they become lower on the totem pole in the Western Conference with the Spurs being the best team there.
-Charlie.
Philly Takes on Pedro
Bare with me that this story is about two days late but like I said in the RJ post, I have been busy doing fun stuff that you couldnt believe. Now on to story...
It has been known for sometime that the Philadelphia Phillies are after pitching after they lost Brett Myers for the season after an ugly hip injury in May. Many think they are the front-runners to get Roy Halladay due to having top-line prospects in the minors but they decided to go after Pedro Martinez.
The thirty-seven year old who dazzled us through in the early 2000s which a great fastball and a sick circle change has faded into the distance with a bunch of injury-riddled years. Martinez has had consistent arm problems in the past three years therefore you wonder if the Phillies are really making the right decision going with Martinez.
Already, Philly has decided to put him on the 15-day DL which probably means his arm isnt ready to pitch 85-100 balls. Or the velocity he is throwing with right now isnt where its supposed to be. If neither of those are the reason why Martinez is on the DL then I think there is something you definitely have to worry about and then I question why the choice was made to bring in a washed-up superstar.
If Pedro can somehow turn out to be even mid-2000 Pedro then look out the Phillies added a force to their rotation. Although if he is anything like the last couple of years, we could ended up seeing Pedro reside in the bullpen.
-Charlie.
It has been known for sometime that the Philadelphia Phillies are after pitching after they lost Brett Myers for the season after an ugly hip injury in May. Many think they are the front-runners to get Roy Halladay due to having top-line prospects in the minors but they decided to go after Pedro Martinez.
The thirty-seven year old who dazzled us through in the early 2000s which a great fastball and a sick circle change has faded into the distance with a bunch of injury-riddled years. Martinez has had consistent arm problems in the past three years therefore you wonder if the Phillies are really making the right decision going with Martinez.
Already, Philly has decided to put him on the 15-day DL which probably means his arm isnt ready to pitch 85-100 balls. Or the velocity he is throwing with right now isnt where its supposed to be. If neither of those are the reason why Martinez is on the DL then I think there is something you definitely have to worry about and then I question why the choice was made to bring in a washed-up superstar.
If Pedro can somehow turn out to be even mid-2000 Pedro then look out the Phillies added a force to their rotation. Although if he is anything like the last couple of years, we could ended up seeing Pedro reside in the bullpen.
-Charlie.
Richard Jefferson Did WHAAAAT?!
This is about as awesome as a story as you could ask for on the slowest day of the sports year on Wednesday (sorry I am late, no laptop, lots of fun lately). Richard Jefferson was set to get married last Friday in New York and he left his soon-to-be wife at the alter in addition all of his wedding guests didnt get the memo before arriving in the Big Apple. So RJ being the real nice guy that he is decided to leave his American Express Black Card and they spent around two million dollars. Now I will give you guys a top five things I would do with RJ's black card in New York City.
1. Head off to Yankee Stadium, then maybe Citi Field:
I could only hope that the Yankees are playing during the day, Mets in the evening.- I would sit at the most expensive seats in the ball park and order the $9 tall boys of PBR that new Yankee Stadium features. Also I would get the most expensive thing on the menu.
2. Head to Madison Square Garden-
Something has to be going on there such as boxing or WNBA. Whatever it may be, I would try to take in the action for awhile but if it was women's basketball, I am bored five minutes and leave.
3. Buy clothes of all sorts-
I would just head over to 5th Avenue and buy everything in sight that fit me. Honestly it would be like the kid from Richie Rich, or Blank Check just going to town buying all sorts of clothing ranging from stuff to go out in and sports jerseys of all sorts.
4. Buying a pizza place-
If I have RJ's black card, I might as well do something that could profit as a business too. So why not get a NYC Pizza Place in the middle of Times Square or close to it for me/RJ to co-own. I would call it the Dozer after my pal, your friend Doz. He would also get full selection on what the menu features.
5. Hitting the town-
I would start off the night going to the 40/40 club and immediately ask for the VIP Club in hopes that Jay-Z might show up on this night wondering why these guys are in my seats? Then we befriend the Jigga man therefore he signs the 414 Boyz. Finally finish the night at Scores where we would make it rain the entire night.
Now there are rumors of RJ being gay and things of that nature so who knows what actually happened but I am glad I could provide some ideas when this happens again.
-Charlie.
1. Head off to Yankee Stadium, then maybe Citi Field:
I could only hope that the Yankees are playing during the day, Mets in the evening.- I would sit at the most expensive seats in the ball park and order the $9 tall boys of PBR that new Yankee Stadium features. Also I would get the most expensive thing on the menu.
2. Head to Madison Square Garden-
Something has to be going on there such as boxing or WNBA. Whatever it may be, I would try to take in the action for awhile but if it was women's basketball, I am bored five minutes and leave.
3. Buy clothes of all sorts-
I would just head over to 5th Avenue and buy everything in sight that fit me. Honestly it would be like the kid from Richie Rich, or Blank Check just going to town buying all sorts of clothing ranging from stuff to go out in and sports jerseys of all sorts.
4. Buying a pizza place-
If I have RJ's black card, I might as well do something that could profit as a business too. So why not get a NYC Pizza Place in the middle of Times Square or close to it for me/RJ to co-own. I would call it the Dozer after my pal, your friend Doz. He would also get full selection on what the menu features.
5. Hitting the town-
I would start off the night going to the 40/40 club and immediately ask for the VIP Club in hopes that Jay-Z might show up on this night wondering why these guys are in my seats? Then we befriend the Jigga man therefore he signs the 414 Boyz. Finally finish the night at Scores where we would make it rain the entire night.
Now there are rumors of RJ being gay and things of that nature so who knows what actually happened but I am glad I could provide some ideas when this happens again.
-Charlie.
Mid Season Report: NL
Alright here is the AL Report if you are interested, same deal with the NL and I will just link you up to the Brewers article when they arrived on my report. So enjoy...
NL EAST
1. Philadelphia Phillies: HOT: Raul Ibanez- I thought when he signed with the Phillies that this had the chance to pay huge dividends for the team and it totally has. Ibanez is having a great year hitting behind Ryan Howard. NOT: Jimmy Rollins- He looks nothing like the MVP of a couple years ago and I really cant figure out what is wrong with Rollins. I wouldnt be surprised if he bats in the 7th hole sometime soon. BUYER: They already got Pedro but I am willing to bet they make a strong push at Roy Halladay plus other pitching. FINISH: First in the AL East, loses to the Dodgers in 7 in the NLCS.
2. Florida Marlins: HOT: Cody Ross- I could easily go with Hanley here but Ross has came out nowhere to have a solid year for the Fish so far. Hitting .278 with 14 homers has been a pleasant surprise. NOT: Starting Pitching not named Josh Johnson- The Marlins have not found a guy in their rotation that can duplicate what Double J does night in night out (how he wasnt an all-star is beyond me) Chris Volstad, and Ricky Nolasco have to get in gear if they want to win. FINISH: Third in the NL East behind the Mets.
3. Atlanta Braves: HOT: Jaiver Vasquez- I think Vazquez is one of the more underrated players in todays game, he has a sub 3 ERA right now and has a ton of strikeouts. NOT: Kelly Johnson- They expect him to have a solid year for the Braves and he has amounted to nothing; leading to Martin Prado replacing him. BUYER/SELLER: Like a couple other teams sitting in third, if they start strong in second half they buy and if not, they sell pretty simple. FINISH: Fourth in the NL East
4. New York Mets: HOT: Gary Sheffield- Looked like his career was done and has turned out to be one of the only good things that have gone right for the Mets. He is hitting above .275 with 10 homers and keeping the team together when things are down. NOT: Injuries- I think its pretty simple to see why New York is in fourth, no Carlos Beltran, Jose Reyes, JJ Putz and Carlos Delgado will do that to a team. BUYER: The Mets could use some starting pitching or middle relief help. In addition if Reyes/Delgado are out for awhile, they may need a bat. FINISH: Second in the NL East, missing out barely on the Wild Card again.
5. Washington Nationals: HOT: Ryan Zimmerman- He has been the only shining star in this organization so far although I do think its awesome that Zimmerman is staying long-term with the team. NOT: The rest of the team- The pitching is horrendous for the most part, and the offense hits at times. SELLERS: If anyone wants the Nats talent, I am sure they are welcomed to have it. FINISH: Dead last in the NL.
NL CENTRAL
1. St. Louis Cardinals: HOT: Albert Pujols- I know I could have looked for anyone else to fit this one but the Machine has been a complete beast. Looks like he will have the first clean 60 homer season since Roger Maris and possibly an NL Triple Crown. NOT: Rick Ankiel- A guy who was supposed to protect Pujols has struggled with injury and the ability to not hit anything that isnt a fastball. BUYER: They already got Mark DeRosa who knows what else they will go after. FINISH: First in the NL Central :( , loses to Philadelphia in four.
2. Milwaukee Brewers: I covered it here... I think the Brewers are Buyers but could sell if the team were to go in some sort of tailspin. That being said I think they take the wild card again and lose to the Dodgers in 5.
3. Chicago Cubs: HOT: Derrek Lee- Another big hitting first basemen in the National League and he is carried Chicago so far this season with a .280 batting average and seventeen homers. NOT: Milton Bradley- Oh Milt. He has been awful for the Cubs so far this season in the outfield and hasnt been all that special at the plate. Remember he is there for two more years. BUYER: If they can take on any more money, they might try to get another relief pitcher. Finish: They will push the Crew for the Wild card/Division but will fall just short.
4. Houston Astros: HOT: Miguel Tejada-A guy's career that seemed to be over after all the steroid allegations and yes his homers are way down although he is batting a cool .329 keeping the Stros in the mix. NOT: Jose Valverde- Who knows where the Astros could be if Valverde was healthy. I am assuming he is coming back shortly and in Houston, they hope so because LaTroy Hawinks wont get it done. NEITHER: I dont see them making any moves maybe if they make a push see if a reliever is around maybe a starter. FINISH: The Stros will finish 5th in the NL Central, just not enough.
5. Cincinnati Reds: HOT: Joey Votto-Despite his problems with stress but Votto has had a great second year hitting around .350 with eleven homers. Now with Jay Bruce being out, he will need to carry the team. NOT: Edison Volquez- A rough injury-riddle year for Volquez and anyone surprised that Dusty Baker is ruining young pitching. BUYER: They could use a bat with Bruce being out for two months or so. FINISH: The Reds finish four but they will push real hard for that Wild Card.
6. Pittsburgh Pirates: HOT: Andrew McCutchen- Their star young center fielder that has caught the eye of every Pirate fan and I just hope that Pittsburgh signs him long term to start building their franchise. NOT: Ian Snell- The Pirates has had high hopes for Snell after a blazing start to his career and now has spent some time in the minors which could turn the tide for him. SELLER: Already sold away Nyger Morgan and Nate McClouth who knows whose next. FINISH: Another last place finish for the Bucos.
NL WEST
1. Los Angeles Dodgers: HOT: Andre Ethier- Many people thought that he would slow down when Manny Ramirez was gone for fifty games. That didnt happen and now I think Ethier is one of the most underrated players in the game. NOT: Manny Ramirez- This has to be the answer despite the Dodgers still kicking ass without him, you just wonder where they could be if he played those 50 games? BUYER: No doubt about, I wouldnt be surprised if they went after George Sherill. FINISH: NL Pennant winner then they will lose in the World Series in six.
2. San Francisco Giants: HOT: Starting Pitching- Tim Linecum, Matt Cain, and Jonathan Sanchez have all been great for the Giants this season so far and have carried them to second spot. NOT: Edgar Renteria- They brought him in hopes he could revive his career and it was an epic fail so far. BUYER: They would love to bring a bat in such as Matt Holiday. FINISH: Second in the NL West but they will lose out on a tight wild card race.
3. Colorado Rockies: HOT: Brad Hawpe- He has had a great year for the Rockies so far this season and has done wonders for their comeback year so far. Hawpe will need to stay consistent to push for the Wild Card. NOT: Jorge De La Rosa- I dont understand why Colorado still thinks this guy has any potential, he is awful. BUYER: They could use some pitching to push for the chance for the wild card. FINISH: Third in the NL West but wont have enough to get the wild card.
4. Arizona Diamondbacks: HOT: Dan Haren- He has been just awesome for the struggling D-Backs so far with an almost sub two ERA so far this season. NOT: Chris Young-A promising center fielder has dipped below the Mendoza line and looks like he completely lost it. I wouldnt be surprised if he heads down to AAA for awhile. SELLER: I am sure they will look to deal Doug Davis, Felipe Lopez, and maybe even Dan Haren, they will be involved big time. FINISH: Fourth in the NL West.
5.San Diego Padres: HOT: Adrian Gonzalez- He has been awesome and he has proven people wrong with hitting twenty-four homers out of the impossible Petco Park. NOT: The rest of the offense- They are just woeful with numbers that are worse than the Nationals, enough said. SELLER: They dont really have that much pieces to move but I am sure some teams would like Heath Bell. FINISH: Fifth in the NL West.
-Charlie.
NL EAST
1. Philadelphia Phillies: HOT: Raul Ibanez- I thought when he signed with the Phillies that this had the chance to pay huge dividends for the team and it totally has. Ibanez is having a great year hitting behind Ryan Howard. NOT: Jimmy Rollins- He looks nothing like the MVP of a couple years ago and I really cant figure out what is wrong with Rollins. I wouldnt be surprised if he bats in the 7th hole sometime soon. BUYER: They already got Pedro but I am willing to bet they make a strong push at Roy Halladay plus other pitching. FINISH: First in the AL East, loses to the Dodgers in 7 in the NLCS.
2. Florida Marlins: HOT: Cody Ross- I could easily go with Hanley here but Ross has came out nowhere to have a solid year for the Fish so far. Hitting .278 with 14 homers has been a pleasant surprise. NOT: Starting Pitching not named Josh Johnson- The Marlins have not found a guy in their rotation that can duplicate what Double J does night in night out (how he wasnt an all-star is beyond me) Chris Volstad, and Ricky Nolasco have to get in gear if they want to win. FINISH: Third in the NL East behind the Mets.
3. Atlanta Braves: HOT: Jaiver Vasquez- I think Vazquez is one of the more underrated players in todays game, he has a sub 3 ERA right now and has a ton of strikeouts. NOT: Kelly Johnson- They expect him to have a solid year for the Braves and he has amounted to nothing; leading to Martin Prado replacing him. BUYER/SELLER: Like a couple other teams sitting in third, if they start strong in second half they buy and if not, they sell pretty simple. FINISH: Fourth in the NL East
4. New York Mets: HOT: Gary Sheffield- Looked like his career was done and has turned out to be one of the only good things that have gone right for the Mets. He is hitting above .275 with 10 homers and keeping the team together when things are down. NOT: Injuries- I think its pretty simple to see why New York is in fourth, no Carlos Beltran, Jose Reyes, JJ Putz and Carlos Delgado will do that to a team. BUYER: The Mets could use some starting pitching or middle relief help. In addition if Reyes/Delgado are out for awhile, they may need a bat. FINISH: Second in the NL East, missing out barely on the Wild Card again.
5. Washington Nationals: HOT: Ryan Zimmerman- He has been the only shining star in this organization so far although I do think its awesome that Zimmerman is staying long-term with the team. NOT: The rest of the team- The pitching is horrendous for the most part, and the offense hits at times. SELLERS: If anyone wants the Nats talent, I am sure they are welcomed to have it. FINISH: Dead last in the NL.
NL CENTRAL
1. St. Louis Cardinals: HOT: Albert Pujols- I know I could have looked for anyone else to fit this one but the Machine has been a complete beast. Looks like he will have the first clean 60 homer season since Roger Maris and possibly an NL Triple Crown. NOT: Rick Ankiel- A guy who was supposed to protect Pujols has struggled with injury and the ability to not hit anything that isnt a fastball. BUYER: They already got Mark DeRosa who knows what else they will go after. FINISH: First in the NL Central :( , loses to Philadelphia in four.
2. Milwaukee Brewers: I covered it here... I think the Brewers are Buyers but could sell if the team were to go in some sort of tailspin. That being said I think they take the wild card again and lose to the Dodgers in 5.
3. Chicago Cubs: HOT: Derrek Lee- Another big hitting first basemen in the National League and he is carried Chicago so far this season with a .280 batting average and seventeen homers. NOT: Milton Bradley- Oh Milt. He has been awful for the Cubs so far this season in the outfield and hasnt been all that special at the plate. Remember he is there for two more years. BUYER: If they can take on any more money, they might try to get another relief pitcher. Finish: They will push the Crew for the Wild card/Division but will fall just short.
4. Houston Astros: HOT: Miguel Tejada-A guy's career that seemed to be over after all the steroid allegations and yes his homers are way down although he is batting a cool .329 keeping the Stros in the mix. NOT: Jose Valverde- Who knows where the Astros could be if Valverde was healthy. I am assuming he is coming back shortly and in Houston, they hope so because LaTroy Hawinks wont get it done. NEITHER: I dont see them making any moves maybe if they make a push see if a reliever is around maybe a starter. FINISH: The Stros will finish 5th in the NL Central, just not enough.
5. Cincinnati Reds: HOT: Joey Votto-Despite his problems with stress but Votto has had a great second year hitting around .350 with eleven homers. Now with Jay Bruce being out, he will need to carry the team. NOT: Edison Volquez- A rough injury-riddle year for Volquez and anyone surprised that Dusty Baker is ruining young pitching. BUYER: They could use a bat with Bruce being out for two months or so. FINISH: The Reds finish four but they will push real hard for that Wild Card.
6. Pittsburgh Pirates: HOT: Andrew McCutchen- Their star young center fielder that has caught the eye of every Pirate fan and I just hope that Pittsburgh signs him long term to start building their franchise. NOT: Ian Snell- The Pirates has had high hopes for Snell after a blazing start to his career and now has spent some time in the minors which could turn the tide for him. SELLER: Already sold away Nyger Morgan and Nate McClouth who knows whose next. FINISH: Another last place finish for the Bucos.
NL WEST
1. Los Angeles Dodgers: HOT: Andre Ethier- Many people thought that he would slow down when Manny Ramirez was gone for fifty games. That didnt happen and now I think Ethier is one of the most underrated players in the game. NOT: Manny Ramirez- This has to be the answer despite the Dodgers still kicking ass without him, you just wonder where they could be if he played those 50 games? BUYER: No doubt about, I wouldnt be surprised if they went after George Sherill. FINISH: NL Pennant winner then they will lose in the World Series in six.
2. San Francisco Giants: HOT: Starting Pitching- Tim Linecum, Matt Cain, and Jonathan Sanchez have all been great for the Giants this season so far and have carried them to second spot. NOT: Edgar Renteria- They brought him in hopes he could revive his career and it was an epic fail so far. BUYER: They would love to bring a bat in such as Matt Holiday. FINISH: Second in the NL West but they will lose out on a tight wild card race.
3. Colorado Rockies: HOT: Brad Hawpe- He has had a great year for the Rockies so far this season and has done wonders for their comeback year so far. Hawpe will need to stay consistent to push for the Wild Card. NOT: Jorge De La Rosa- I dont understand why Colorado still thinks this guy has any potential, he is awful. BUYER: They could use some pitching to push for the chance for the wild card. FINISH: Third in the NL West but wont have enough to get the wild card.
4. Arizona Diamondbacks: HOT: Dan Haren- He has been just awesome for the struggling D-Backs so far with an almost sub two ERA so far this season. NOT: Chris Young-A promising center fielder has dipped below the Mendoza line and looks like he completely lost it. I wouldnt be surprised if he heads down to AAA for awhile. SELLER: I am sure they will look to deal Doug Davis, Felipe Lopez, and maybe even Dan Haren, they will be involved big time. FINISH: Fourth in the NL West.
5.San Diego Padres: HOT: Adrian Gonzalez- He has been awesome and he has proven people wrong with hitting twenty-four homers out of the impossible Petco Park. NOT: The rest of the offense- They are just woeful with numbers that are worse than the Nationals, enough said. SELLER: They dont really have that much pieces to move but I am sure some teams would like Heath Bell. FINISH: Fifth in the NL West.
-Charlie.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Mid Season Report: AL
I know we are a little over 81 games for the season but we need a mid season report to see who are the contenders and the pretenders. I will do a HOT-a player who is on fire and doesnt appear to stop, NOT-someone who needs to improve to save their season, BUYER/SELLER: Self explanatory. FINISH-where they end up during the year,
AL EAST
1. Boston Red Sox: HOT: Starting Pitching-Not many teams can say that they have three 8+ winners on their staff. That is something the Sox will need the rest of the season including the postseason. NOT: Nick Green or any other shortstop- They get nothing out of the SS position right now with Green batting average only .257, hitting four homers, and 15 RBIs that is not getting it done. BUYER: No doubt about it, if they get Roy Halladay my head may explode and they have also wanted JJ Hardy. FINISH: First in the AL East, World Series Champion.
2. New York Yankees: HOT: Robinson Cano- There are slew of Yankee hitters I could choose from because well they hit at new Coors Field so their numbers are quite inflated to say the least. Cano has had a great year at second base hitting over .300 and 10+ homers almost reviving his career. NOT: Middle relief- The one thing the Yankees are missing right now is a 7th and 8th inning guy to set up Mariano Rivera. None of those guys seem to have the 'grapefruits' to handle October. BUYER: Without question they are, I dont think they can get Halladay but they should look for an 8th inning guy, maybe Tony Pena out of Arizona. FINISH: Second in the AL East, lose in the ALCS to the Sox in 5
3. Tampa Bay Rays: HOT: Ben Zobrist- He is a guy who has played seven different positions this year for the Rays and has been the most important part of their team so far. Some are discussing that he is the MVP of the AL so far right now. NOT: Run Support- Their top three pitchers have six losses with sub 4 ERAs, something wrong there. It could be Pat Burrell/Carlos Pena .240 and lower BA. BUYER: They could use relief help or a bat, Felipe Lopez wouldnt be a bad opition. FINISH: Third in the AL East, just short of the Wild Card.
4. Toronto Blue Jays: HOT: Aaron Hill- Talk about a guy who really came out of nowhere. He seemed to be a flash in a pan in 2007 and now he is coming on strong with 20 homers already this season. NOT: Travis Snider- He was supposed to be one of the superstars of the Jays and hasnt amount to nothing. I wouldnt be surprised if they decided to send him down at some time this second half. SELLER: They are looking to deal Roy Halladay and Scott Rolen, maybe Aaron Hill as well who knows. FINISH: Fifth in the AL East.
5. Baltimore Orioles: HOT: Adam Jones- He is a helluva player and a great young talent that seems to keep getting better. Jones will be a complete stud for the O's and should be their franchise player. NOT: Starting Pitching- Good lord they have four pitchers with 5 plus ERAs that is not going to get it done whatsoever for the O's for years to come. SELLER: They will not sell any of their great young players but they might deal George Sherrill to get some pitching. FINISH: Fourth in the AL East.
AL CENTRAL
1. Detroit Tigers: HOT: Edwin Jackson- He was a world-renowned prospect at the beginning of his career and then tailed off until last year season with the Rays which we all thought was lighting in the bottle. Jackson proved that theory wrong so far. NOT: Dontrelle Willis- The D-Train has officially parked in the station for awhile. I see no reason for the resurrection of Willis. NEITHER: They could use a bat but they have a ton of mammoth contracts therefore they really dont have room to take on money. FINISH: First in the AL Central, loses to the Red Sox in four.
2. Chicago White Sox: HOT: Paul Konerko- He has a had a pretty solid season so far after struggling mightly last year. Konerko been great for the Sox so far. NOT: Josh Fields- I have no idea why he is still in the lineup when you have Gordan Beckham ready to play. Fields has only hit a mere .225. BUYER/SELLER: If they do well in the next 10 days, they will be buyers maybe go after Rolen then if they suck, they might try to deal Jermaine Dye. FINISH: Third in the AL Central, fades away in the second half.
3. Minnesota Twins: HOT: Joe Mauer-He has been a guy who never had power and now is belting fifteen homers with an unreal .377 batting average. Mauer is right up there for MVP so far this season. NOT: Twins Management- I could say others but look they gave away Matt Garza and Jason Bartlett for Delmon Young, yikes. Think how good the Twins would be. NEITHER: They are never really a team that makes deals at the end of July so I see them making no moves. FINISH: Second in the AL Central but it will be close with the Tigers.
4. Kansas City Royals: HOT: Zach Grienke- Who else? He might have five losses but he only has a 2.13 ERA right now. Grienke could easily be the AL CY Young award winner right now. Also its a great story that he was able to overcome all the problems he had. NOT: Mike Jacobs- They brought him from Florida and he has done complete squat for the Royals so far as a DH. He has made a little dent in Kansas City. SELLER: They wont deal any of guys like Mark Teahan, Billy Bulter, or Grienke although if someone wants Jose Guillen/Jacobs, they will do it. FINISH: Fourth in the AL Central
5. Cleveland Indians: HOT: Victor Martinez- Coming off a injury-riddle 08, he had an All-Star worthy first half of the season. He does a great job at both catcher and first base. NOT: Relief pitching- Its sooo bad, they blow every lead the Indians seem to get. If I was Cleveland I would ask Jose Mesa to come back. SELLER: No doubt about it and it would be interesting to see if they move Martinez which I doubt. FINISH: Dead last in the AL.
AL WEST
1. Los Angeles Angles: HOT: Juan Rivera- Remember when the media was criticizing the Angels for passing on Mark Teixeira for Rivera? He has put together a pretty awesome year so far with .310 15 homers. Its not Tex by any means but Rivera done a formidable job. NOT: Vladimir Guerrero- Is his career done? The back seems like it bothers him so much and he hasnt be able to shake it. Very sad for me. BUYER: I dont know if they have enough to get Halladay but they might go after some 3-4 pitching like Doug Davis. FINISH: First in the AL West, loses to Yanks in five
2. Texas Rangers: HOT: Nelson Cruz- Dont remind me he was a Brewer prospect but Cruz has had an incredible year so far for Texas. The Rangers have a bright future with him and Josh Hamilton as their 3-4. NOT: Chris Davis- A cant miss prospect who was suppose to be Cruz this year has only proven to hit home runs. Hopefully he can figure it out. BUYER: They need pitching too and they have a ton in their minors to give up so who knows. FINISH: Second in the AL West falling away from the Angels.
3. Seattle Mariners: HOT: Russell Branyan- The Muscle has been awesome for Seattle and its too bad he didnt stay with the Brewers this season. Anyways its great to see him have easily the comeback year of the AL. NOT: Wladimir Baletien- Talk about just an awful player, he hasnt done anything out in left for Seattle this season. I hope they have a young gun in the minors to fill his role. BUYER/SELLER: Alot like the White Sox, if they succeed in the next 10 they might look at some players and if they suck once again, they will deal guys like Washburn/Branyan. FINISH: Third in the AL West.
4. Oakland: HOT: Andrew Bailey- He has been awesome in the closer role at his young age and it seems to me that Bailey will be a dominant closer from years to come. NOT: Matt Holiday- Talk about an epic fail. Everyone doubt that he go from Coors to Oakland without any problems and he laughed it off. That didnt happen for Holiday whatsoever as he has gone thirty-two games w/o homering. SELLER: I mean when are they not sellers? Haha look for them to try to deal Holiday for sure. FINISH: Fourth in the AL West.
-Charlie.
AL EAST
1. Boston Red Sox: HOT: Starting Pitching-Not many teams can say that they have three 8+ winners on their staff. That is something the Sox will need the rest of the season including the postseason. NOT: Nick Green or any other shortstop- They get nothing out of the SS position right now with Green batting average only .257, hitting four homers, and 15 RBIs that is not getting it done. BUYER: No doubt about it, if they get Roy Halladay my head may explode and they have also wanted JJ Hardy. FINISH: First in the AL East, World Series Champion.
2. New York Yankees: HOT: Robinson Cano- There are slew of Yankee hitters I could choose from because well they hit at new Coors Field so their numbers are quite inflated to say the least. Cano has had a great year at second base hitting over .300 and 10+ homers almost reviving his career. NOT: Middle relief- The one thing the Yankees are missing right now is a 7th and 8th inning guy to set up Mariano Rivera. None of those guys seem to have the 'grapefruits' to handle October. BUYER: Without question they are, I dont think they can get Halladay but they should look for an 8th inning guy, maybe Tony Pena out of Arizona. FINISH: Second in the AL East, lose in the ALCS to the Sox in 5
3. Tampa Bay Rays: HOT: Ben Zobrist- He is a guy who has played seven different positions this year for the Rays and has been the most important part of their team so far. Some are discussing that he is the MVP of the AL so far right now. NOT: Run Support- Their top three pitchers have six losses with sub 4 ERAs, something wrong there. It could be Pat Burrell/Carlos Pena .240 and lower BA. BUYER: They could use relief help or a bat, Felipe Lopez wouldnt be a bad opition. FINISH: Third in the AL East, just short of the Wild Card.
4. Toronto Blue Jays: HOT: Aaron Hill- Talk about a guy who really came out of nowhere. He seemed to be a flash in a pan in 2007 and now he is coming on strong with 20 homers already this season. NOT: Travis Snider- He was supposed to be one of the superstars of the Jays and hasnt amount to nothing. I wouldnt be surprised if they decided to send him down at some time this second half. SELLER: They are looking to deal Roy Halladay and Scott Rolen, maybe Aaron Hill as well who knows. FINISH: Fifth in the AL East.
5. Baltimore Orioles: HOT: Adam Jones- He is a helluva player and a great young talent that seems to keep getting better. Jones will be a complete stud for the O's and should be their franchise player. NOT: Starting Pitching- Good lord they have four pitchers with 5 plus ERAs that is not going to get it done whatsoever for the O's for years to come. SELLER: They will not sell any of their great young players but they might deal George Sherrill to get some pitching. FINISH: Fourth in the AL East.
AL CENTRAL
1. Detroit Tigers: HOT: Edwin Jackson- He was a world-renowned prospect at the beginning of his career and then tailed off until last year season with the Rays which we all thought was lighting in the bottle. Jackson proved that theory wrong so far. NOT: Dontrelle Willis- The D-Train has officially parked in the station for awhile. I see no reason for the resurrection of Willis. NEITHER: They could use a bat but they have a ton of mammoth contracts therefore they really dont have room to take on money. FINISH: First in the AL Central, loses to the Red Sox in four.
2. Chicago White Sox: HOT: Paul Konerko- He has a had a pretty solid season so far after struggling mightly last year. Konerko been great for the Sox so far. NOT: Josh Fields- I have no idea why he is still in the lineup when you have Gordan Beckham ready to play. Fields has only hit a mere .225. BUYER/SELLER: If they do well in the next 10 days, they will be buyers maybe go after Rolen then if they suck, they might try to deal Jermaine Dye. FINISH: Third in the AL Central, fades away in the second half.
3. Minnesota Twins: HOT: Joe Mauer-He has been a guy who never had power and now is belting fifteen homers with an unreal .377 batting average. Mauer is right up there for MVP so far this season. NOT: Twins Management- I could say others but look they gave away Matt Garza and Jason Bartlett for Delmon Young, yikes. Think how good the Twins would be. NEITHER: They are never really a team that makes deals at the end of July so I see them making no moves. FINISH: Second in the AL Central but it will be close with the Tigers.
4. Kansas City Royals: HOT: Zach Grienke- Who else? He might have five losses but he only has a 2.13 ERA right now. Grienke could easily be the AL CY Young award winner right now. Also its a great story that he was able to overcome all the problems he had. NOT: Mike Jacobs- They brought him from Florida and he has done complete squat for the Royals so far as a DH. He has made a little dent in Kansas City. SELLER: They wont deal any of guys like Mark Teahan, Billy Bulter, or Grienke although if someone wants Jose Guillen/Jacobs, they will do it. FINISH: Fourth in the AL Central
5. Cleveland Indians: HOT: Victor Martinez- Coming off a injury-riddle 08, he had an All-Star worthy first half of the season. He does a great job at both catcher and first base. NOT: Relief pitching- Its sooo bad, they blow every lead the Indians seem to get. If I was Cleveland I would ask Jose Mesa to come back. SELLER: No doubt about it and it would be interesting to see if they move Martinez which I doubt. FINISH: Dead last in the AL.
AL WEST
1. Los Angeles Angles: HOT: Juan Rivera- Remember when the media was criticizing the Angels for passing on Mark Teixeira for Rivera? He has put together a pretty awesome year so far with .310 15 homers. Its not Tex by any means but Rivera done a formidable job. NOT: Vladimir Guerrero- Is his career done? The back seems like it bothers him so much and he hasnt be able to shake it. Very sad for me. BUYER: I dont know if they have enough to get Halladay but they might go after some 3-4 pitching like Doug Davis. FINISH: First in the AL West, loses to Yanks in five
2. Texas Rangers: HOT: Nelson Cruz- Dont remind me he was a Brewer prospect but Cruz has had an incredible year so far for Texas. The Rangers have a bright future with him and Josh Hamilton as their 3-4. NOT: Chris Davis- A cant miss prospect who was suppose to be Cruz this year has only proven to hit home runs. Hopefully he can figure it out. BUYER: They need pitching too and they have a ton in their minors to give up so who knows. FINISH: Second in the AL West falling away from the Angels.
3. Seattle Mariners: HOT: Russell Branyan- The Muscle has been awesome for Seattle and its too bad he didnt stay with the Brewers this season. Anyways its great to see him have easily the comeback year of the AL. NOT: Wladimir Baletien- Talk about just an awful player, he hasnt done anything out in left for Seattle this season. I hope they have a young gun in the minors to fill his role. BUYER/SELLER: Alot like the White Sox, if they succeed in the next 10 they might look at some players and if they suck once again, they will deal guys like Washburn/Branyan. FINISH: Third in the AL West.
4. Oakland: HOT: Andrew Bailey- He has been awesome in the closer role at his young age and it seems to me that Bailey will be a dominant closer from years to come. NOT: Matt Holiday- Talk about an epic fail. Everyone doubt that he go from Coors to Oakland without any problems and he laughed it off. That didnt happen for Holiday whatsoever as he has gone thirty-two games w/o homering. SELLER: I mean when are they not sellers? Haha look for them to try to deal Holiday for sure. FINISH: Fourth in the AL West.
-Charlie.
Prince Saves the All Star for Me.
I have to be honest with all of you here at Chucks Corner. I am done with the All Star game for the most part. I dont know why but I just find no more interest in watching these guys play an exhibition against each other. I found myself bored many times unless Prince Fielder, Ryan Braun, or Trevor Hoffman was in the game from my Milwaukee Brewers. Other than that, I really could give a damn about watching Mariano Rivera of the New York Yankees shutting the door for the AL who have now won 14 times straight with one magical tie in Milwaukee.
Despite my mean sentiments towards the All Star Week, I still feel it is vital for the MLB to stick with the option of every team gets a player on the roster. I think that is the coolest thing because like I say in the title, Prince really was the only reason to watch throughout the two days.
On Monday at the Home Run Derby, he put on a complete display of his home run hitting abilities by belting blasts around the 450 range and even getting one out 500 feet (Prince claims that the first time he has ever sent one that far). It was sheer strength watching Prince pound the ball into the Busch Stadium lights and beyond. Nelson Cruz was the only guy who came close to touching Prince but if Fielder needed to he probably could have sent five more out in the final round.
Now on Tuesday, I was worried if Prince stepped to the plate, he would attempt to hit another one out but instead ripped an RBI double down the left field line which was the last run for the National League. I hate to criticize managers for an exhibition game but I wish Charlie Manuel would waited to put Prince in for Albert Pujols in the fifth inning. Trever Hoffman looked good in his inning of work and Braun made good contact although went 0-2.
On to the second half... should be fun.
-Charlie.
Despite my mean sentiments towards the All Star Week, I still feel it is vital for the MLB to stick with the option of every team gets a player on the roster. I think that is the coolest thing because like I say in the title, Prince really was the only reason to watch throughout the two days.
On Monday at the Home Run Derby, he put on a complete display of his home run hitting abilities by belting blasts around the 450 range and even getting one out 500 feet (Prince claims that the first time he has ever sent one that far). It was sheer strength watching Prince pound the ball into the Busch Stadium lights and beyond. Nelson Cruz was the only guy who came close to touching Prince but if Fielder needed to he probably could have sent five more out in the final round.
Now on Tuesday, I was worried if Prince stepped to the plate, he would attempt to hit another one out but instead ripped an RBI double down the left field line which was the last run for the National League. I hate to criticize managers for an exhibition game but I wish Charlie Manuel would waited to put Prince in for Albert Pujols in the fifth inning. Trever Hoffman looked good in his inning of work and Braun made good contact although went 0-2.
On to the second half... should be fun.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
The Answer to the Clips? Rut-Roh.
I had already claim that Shawn Marion going to the Mavs was the worst deal of the NBA Off Season so far but let me tell you if Allen Iverson is on the Los Angeles Clippers that will be the worst deal. Talk about heading for the hills and running if you are a fan of the Clippers.
Seriously can you even comprehend Clipper head coach Mike Dunleavy trying to tell A.I. what to do? I mean Baron Davis whose a bit of a headcase has big problems with Dunleavy and then Iverson who seems to be only controlled when his coach is Larry Brown is supposed to work with this guy? Cmon now, we all know this is a complete and utter disaster. The other thing about Davis is he isnt a true point guard, he likes to get to the basket, shoot the three, and take control. He is a lot like Mo Williams from the Cleveland Cavaliers. So now you have two guards that are thinking me before team once again another reason why this will not work.
I dont understand why Iverson wouldnt think about heading to the Charlotte Bobcats or the Memphis Grizzlies. I mean they might not be the best teams but they will let the Answer be "the man" which he hasnt been since his days as a Philadelphia 76er. There has always been someone else taking the spotlight from Allen and it seems like that does bother him. He wants to be the main attraction still at this old age and he has fail to accept being a supporting cast member.
Now if some way Dunleavy could figure out a way to control Ivo and Davis together to convince one of them that they need to pass more often then we might be looking at a playoff team. They have a great set of tools with the likes of Marcus Camby, Eric Gordan, and newly added Blake Griffin. But then again this is the Clippers.
-Charlie
Seriously can you even comprehend Clipper head coach Mike Dunleavy trying to tell A.I. what to do? I mean Baron Davis whose a bit of a headcase has big problems with Dunleavy and then Iverson who seems to be only controlled when his coach is Larry Brown is supposed to work with this guy? Cmon now, we all know this is a complete and utter disaster. The other thing about Davis is he isnt a true point guard, he likes to get to the basket, shoot the three, and take control. He is a lot like Mo Williams from the Cleveland Cavaliers. So now you have two guards that are thinking me before team once again another reason why this will not work.
I dont understand why Iverson wouldnt think about heading to the Charlotte Bobcats or the Memphis Grizzlies. I mean they might not be the best teams but they will let the Answer be "the man" which he hasnt been since his days as a Philadelphia 76er. There has always been someone else taking the spotlight from Allen and it seems like that does bother him. He wants to be the main attraction still at this old age and he has fail to accept being a supporting cast member.
Now if some way Dunleavy could figure out a way to control Ivo and Davis together to convince one of them that they need to pass more often then we might be looking at a playoff team. They have a great set of tools with the likes of Marcus Camby, Eric Gordan, and newly added Blake Griffin. But then again this is the Clippers.
-Charlie
Manny Acta is Fired, I am Shocked.
This is something we have all been waiting for the last month... The Washington Nationals decided to finally fired their manager Manny Acta who will likely go down as one of the worst manager in memorable past. Also Acta was the same guy that decided to fine Elijah Dukes for being five minutes late from a volunteer event so you knew that the writing was on the wall. But what it boils down to is the fact that the Montreal Expos management couldnt figure out now the Nationals have the same issue.
The Nationals have to be the worst franchise right now in Major League Baseball and I believe there is no reason why they are going to get better in the next couple of years. The only way things change if they can reel in Stephen Strasburg/Byrce Harper. They got rid of Lastings Milledge who has a chance to be pretty good and they are going sour on Elijah Dukes. Joel Hanrahan was a decent closer last year and didnt do so hot this season therefore they shipped him to Pittsburgh. It just doesnt make sense.
I thought the Nationals got a chance to take off with Adam Dunn signing. That took a turn for the worst and the only real bright spot is for Ryan Zimmerman. He has been great and has signed long-term with the Nats right now. At least I hope the Nationals finds a way to get it together.
-Charlie.
The Nationals have to be the worst franchise right now in Major League Baseball and I believe there is no reason why they are going to get better in the next couple of years. The only way things change if they can reel in Stephen Strasburg/Byrce Harper. They got rid of Lastings Milledge who has a chance to be pretty good and they are going sour on Elijah Dukes. Joel Hanrahan was a decent closer last year and didnt do so hot this season therefore they shipped him to Pittsburgh. It just doesnt make sense.
I thought the Nationals got a chance to take off with Adam Dunn signing. That took a turn for the worst and the only real bright spot is for Ryan Zimmerman. He has been great and has signed long-term with the Nats right now. At least I hope the Nationals finds a way to get it together.
-Charlie.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Brewers Will Be Alright.
At first I was worried about the Crew but after looking at it, I feel that the Brewers will be alright for the second half of the year. There are some people that want to say this team is over/done with and would like the Brewers to become sellers. I dont want to do that therefore I have a couple of suggestions that might help the team improve (then again I am not Ken Macha so who knows if it would all really work)....
1. McGehee at 2B and Gamel 3B- I know I have said this beforeon the blog but I do believe it is the smartest thing for the Brewers to do at this point in the season. Mat Gamel needs to be playing every day almost and Casey McGehee does as well. Craig Counsull has been a true bright spot in the Brewer lineup this year but he was so much better when he was coming up with clutch pinch-hits. I think if he played a couple games a week at second then shift McGehee to third on those days, we could guarantee ourselves that we wouldnt see Bill Hall for about two weeks.
2. Pump Breaks on Pitching Staff- A lot of people want to Brewers to go out and make a deal which I honestly dont see the Brewers having enough pieces to go out to make something happen. I thought that Manny Parra needs Mike Rivera behind the plate and I truly believe he will have a "Dave Bush"-like comeback in the second half. Speaking of Bush, I think now that he has worked the kinks out of his elbow, he should be back to pitching well. I personally believe that Yovani is rattled about the fact he doesnt get run support and that leads to more walks. Yo will be just fine as the second half goes.
3. Find a 8th Inning Guy- My laptop is down for a couple days so I havent churned out the articles like I had earlier this summer therefore I didnt get to explode about Carlos Villanueva this weekend. I am start calling him "Derrick Turnbow 09" just because he just walks guys and just doesnt have the mental mindset. Like Mota last year for awhile, C Villi needs to keep his ass on the bench just like Bill Hall. I think you have to go with Todd Coffey who then should only pitch the 8th. I also dont understand why the Brewers havent explored the idea of putting Mitch Stetter as a guy who can face right/left handers.
4. Cameron, Hart, or Hardy please be consistent- I dont need all of those three to start getting in gear but I am just praying that one of those guys catches complete fire. I think Hardy is the closet one to start hitting the ball and he has a great chance of getting going in the second half.
5. Just win baby- I hate to quote Al Davis (I know Mitchy loves it) but against the scrubs like Washington (8 games) and San Diego (6 games) you have to win those series. Just the series the Brewers are supposed to win, they need to. They can ill-afford to get swept or lose a series to a team like that.
Enjoy the second half.
-Charlie
1. McGehee at 2B and Gamel 3B- I know I have said this beforeon the blog but I do believe it is the smartest thing for the Brewers to do at this point in the season. Mat Gamel needs to be playing every day almost and Casey McGehee does as well. Craig Counsull has been a true bright spot in the Brewer lineup this year but he was so much better when he was coming up with clutch pinch-hits. I think if he played a couple games a week at second then shift McGehee to third on those days, we could guarantee ourselves that we wouldnt see Bill Hall for about two weeks.
2. Pump Breaks on Pitching Staff- A lot of people want to Brewers to go out and make a deal which I honestly dont see the Brewers having enough pieces to go out to make something happen. I thought that Manny Parra needs Mike Rivera behind the plate and I truly believe he will have a "Dave Bush"-like comeback in the second half. Speaking of Bush, I think now that he has worked the kinks out of his elbow, he should be back to pitching well. I personally believe that Yovani is rattled about the fact he doesnt get run support and that leads to more walks. Yo will be just fine as the second half goes.
3. Find a 8th Inning Guy- My laptop is down for a couple days so I havent churned out the articles like I had earlier this summer therefore I didnt get to explode about Carlos Villanueva this weekend. I am start calling him "Derrick Turnbow 09" just because he just walks guys and just doesnt have the mental mindset. Like Mota last year for awhile, C Villi needs to keep his ass on the bench just like Bill Hall. I think you have to go with Todd Coffey who then should only pitch the 8th. I also dont understand why the Brewers havent explored the idea of putting Mitch Stetter as a guy who can face right/left handers.
4. Cameron, Hart, or Hardy please be consistent- I dont need all of those three to start getting in gear but I am just praying that one of those guys catches complete fire. I think Hardy is the closet one to start hitting the ball and he has a great chance of getting going in the second half.
5. Just win baby- I hate to quote Al Davis (I know Mitchy loves it) but against the scrubs like Washington (8 games) and San Diego (6 games) you have to win those series. Just the series the Brewers are supposed to win, they need to. They can ill-afford to get swept or lose a series to a team like that.
Enjoy the second half.
-Charlie
Sunday, July 12, 2009
D-Wade and Pat Riley Need to Hug Out
The title is in honor of Entourage premiering tonight and if you arent watching that tonight, I would compare you to a ginger: No soul. But in all honesty, the Miami Heat know realize that their superstar is not happy and they are doing nothing about it.
I have been a big fan of Dwayne Wade since the Marquette days although I feel I am coming at this at the right angle because I recognize whats going on. Wade made a comment earlier this week explaining that the team needs to get back to championship caliber level then he will stay in Miami. After that happens, rumors started to swirl that the team had shown interest in Allen Iverson which will not make that much of a difference for Miami. This is basically the same scenario that happened in Milwaukee last week. Brewer outfielder Ryan Braun and Wade both made comments where they spoke the truth leading to management getting pissed off he even went there. I mean Wade plays with a bunch of scrubs and a couple of guys who have a legitimate shot at becoming better players although I would put them nowhere near contending for a championship.
Pat Riley whose ego is the size of the state of Florida made a comment " ''There can't be any major franchise changes made without his commitment,'' Riley said of Wade. ``I'm going to do the best sales job I can. What we do going forward is going to be predicated on that.'' Wade came back with something saying why not give 2010 a chance which to me makes sense, he doesnt want to commit to a team that may need to rebuild. Granted, Riley wants to start with Wade and hope everything falls into place after that.
Also now there have been texts made to Wade asking for an extension already putting the ball in his court which now makes Dwayne look like the asshole if he doesnt sign the extension with the Heat. The writing will be on the wall and if they dont sign that could mean they could swing a deal for Wade come February if they are convinced he will not resign. It has became very interesting in South Beach.
-Charlie.
I have been a big fan of Dwayne Wade since the Marquette days although I feel I am coming at this at the right angle because I recognize whats going on. Wade made a comment earlier this week explaining that the team needs to get back to championship caliber level then he will stay in Miami. After that happens, rumors started to swirl that the team had shown interest in Allen Iverson which will not make that much of a difference for Miami. This is basically the same scenario that happened in Milwaukee last week. Brewer outfielder Ryan Braun and Wade both made comments where they spoke the truth leading to management getting pissed off he even went there. I mean Wade plays with a bunch of scrubs and a couple of guys who have a legitimate shot at becoming better players although I would put them nowhere near contending for a championship.
Pat Riley whose ego is the size of the state of Florida made a comment " ''There can't be any major franchise changes made without his commitment,'' Riley said of Wade. ``I'm going to do the best sales job I can. What we do going forward is going to be predicated on that.'' Wade came back with something saying why not give 2010 a chance which to me makes sense, he doesnt want to commit to a team that may need to rebuild. Granted, Riley wants to start with Wade and hope everything falls into place after that.
Also now there have been texts made to Wade asking for an extension already putting the ball in his court which now makes Dwayne look like the asshole if he doesnt sign the extension with the Heat. The writing will be on the wall and if they dont sign that could mean they could swing a deal for Wade come February if they are convinced he will not resign. It has became very interesting in South Beach.
-Charlie.
Happy Birthday Chucks Corner
Its the second anniversary of Chucks Corner and I usually was someone who would update this thing once in awhile, now I get pissed if like in the past couple of days havent posted in awhile. We are at 491 counting this one and will be hitting the big 500 posts sometime this week. Once again if you dont already, follow me on Twitter and fan me on Facebook. But here are few things to look forward too.
-Comin' in Hot Leavin' Cold Fridays: Will feature an interview, a guest post, or a link post on Friday. We decided that its you need something in your day to look forward to the weekend.
-Podcasts in Fall- I have been pushing to have podcasts on the blog for a long time now but it looks like September will be the best time. Hoping for a bi-weekly podcast which doesnt have a name yet.
-Radio Show- Thats coming in the fall as well with my friend TO who holds the Man of the Week spot for the last couple of weeks. That should be a blast
-Sports, Sports, more Sports- I hope to keep covering sports in way you like or dont like (here's to Lexington!) and that everyone keeps reading.
Take care
-Charlie.
-Comin' in Hot Leavin' Cold Fridays: Will feature an interview, a guest post, or a link post on Friday. We decided that its you need something in your day to look forward to the weekend.
-Podcasts in Fall- I have been pushing to have podcasts on the blog for a long time now but it looks like September will be the best time. Hoping for a bi-weekly podcast which doesnt have a name yet.
-Radio Show- Thats coming in the fall as well with my friend TO who holds the Man of the Week spot for the last couple of weeks. That should be a blast
-Sports, Sports, more Sports- I hope to keep covering sports in way you like or dont like (here's to Lexington!) and that everyone keeps reading.
Take care
-Charlie.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Comin in Hot.... Leavin' Cold Fridays: Mach's Turn
Hello Everyone,
This is Chuck's good friend Mach, I have guest written for Chuck's Corner before. I think you can remember the Top Ten Chuck Moments that Me and Dozer created, just pure gold. Chuck decided to let me guest post because he felt we needed to spice things up a bit, and I was first in line to make it Spicy.
First we are going to sum up the events of the Friday field trip to Six Flags Great America...
-I get to the park (I drove separately), and I had to sit by a sign by myself for a half hour while I waited for Chuck and Doz to get to the park with the recreation department kids, and on top of that it was starting to rain
-We get into the park, just misting at this point, and Doz, Chuck, our friend Froggy and I head straight for the rollercoaster Raging Bull with their kids they need to watch. There is no line for it at this point, we waited maybe 10 minutes for the ride, but there was one problem, the little Emo kid
- This kid was a real winner (keep in mind he was in maybe 5th grade), he wore jeans and raggedy shoes on a pretty warm day, and he also had two, maybe three different colors in his hair. Anyways, this kid takes one look at the huge drop at the beginning, and he starts CRYING. Chuck was just devastated that he had to wait back with the kid while the rest of us went on the ride; he later said that he wanted to tell the kid to stop being a pussy and just man up, but he decided it wouldnt be the best thing to say to the kid
- To some up the events, Chuck was able to ride the Batman and Vertical Velocity rides, both rides he used to not be able to ride due to his junk in his trunk, but since he has lost almost 40 pounds now, he was able to go and he loved every second of it.
Then there was Doz's brothers graduation party...
- It was a great time with a crap ton of great food, great drink, and great people. It was just too bad Trevor Hoffman had to give up the save...
-Nothing too excited happened when I was there, I left around 11pm, but right after that I heard that the night was better after Doz put his brother in a headlock after a beer pong match
Then today, Saturday, Chuck, Doz, our Buddy Ryan, and Doz's brother Michael head up to the lakehouse on Pewaukee Lake...
- Ryan and I get there, and we are met by hordes of mosquitoes that just attack us the minute we get out of the car
- Then we get on the boat with everyone, head out quite a ways, park the boat, and take a swim (Chuck doing the peoples elbow into the water while Michael does a frogsplash), toss the football around and catch it while jumping off of the boat
- We are all having a great time, blaring Bon Jovi as well as other great bands, then the boat turns off. We are trying to turn the boat back on but it keeps dying, we are out of gas...
- We wait for what seems like an eternity, the sun is setting in the background, when a speedboat comes by and asks if everything is alright, and realizes that we need a tow. So he hooks us up and tows us back to the dock. Needless to say that man is welcome for a beer anytime at the lakehouse.
Well that just about sums up the events of the weekend thus far, it has been one of the top weekends of the summer thus far, but Dave Matthews Band at Alpine Valley is next weekend, so that very well could possibly top it...
Goodnight and God Bless ,
Mach
This is Chuck's good friend Mach, I have guest written for Chuck's Corner before. I think you can remember the Top Ten Chuck Moments that Me and Dozer created, just pure gold. Chuck decided to let me guest post because he felt we needed to spice things up a bit, and I was first in line to make it Spicy.
First we are going to sum up the events of the Friday field trip to Six Flags Great America...
-I get to the park (I drove separately), and I had to sit by a sign by myself for a half hour while I waited for Chuck and Doz to get to the park with the recreation department kids, and on top of that it was starting to rain
-We get into the park, just misting at this point, and Doz, Chuck, our friend Froggy and I head straight for the rollercoaster Raging Bull with their kids they need to watch. There is no line for it at this point, we waited maybe 10 minutes for the ride, but there was one problem, the little Emo kid
- This kid was a real winner (keep in mind he was in maybe 5th grade), he wore jeans and raggedy shoes on a pretty warm day, and he also had two, maybe three different colors in his hair. Anyways, this kid takes one look at the huge drop at the beginning, and he starts CRYING. Chuck was just devastated that he had to wait back with the kid while the rest of us went on the ride; he later said that he wanted to tell the kid to stop being a pussy and just man up, but he decided it wouldnt be the best thing to say to the kid
- To some up the events, Chuck was able to ride the Batman and Vertical Velocity rides, both rides he used to not be able to ride due to his junk in his trunk, but since he has lost almost 40 pounds now, he was able to go and he loved every second of it.
Then there was Doz's brothers graduation party...
- It was a great time with a crap ton of great food, great drink, and great people. It was just too bad Trevor Hoffman had to give up the save...
-Nothing too excited happened when I was there, I left around 11pm, but right after that I heard that the night was better after Doz put his brother in a headlock after a beer pong match
Then today, Saturday, Chuck, Doz, our Buddy Ryan, and Doz's brother Michael head up to the lakehouse on Pewaukee Lake...
- Ryan and I get there, and we are met by hordes of mosquitoes that just attack us the minute we get out of the car
- Then we get on the boat with everyone, head out quite a ways, park the boat, and take a swim (Chuck doing the peoples elbow into the water while Michael does a frogsplash), toss the football around and catch it while jumping off of the boat
- We are all having a great time, blaring Bon Jovi as well as other great bands, then the boat turns off. We are trying to turn the boat back on but it keeps dying, we are out of gas...
- We wait for what seems like an eternity, the sun is setting in the background, when a speedboat comes by and asks if everything is alright, and realizes that we need a tow. So he hooks us up and tows us back to the dock. Needless to say that man is welcome for a beer anytime at the lakehouse.
Well that just about sums up the events of the weekend thus far, it has been one of the top weekends of the summer thus far, but Dave Matthews Band at Alpine Valley is next weekend, so that very well could possibly top it...
Goodnight and God Bless ,
Mach
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Aww LeBron Doesnt Want to be Embarrassed
Alright LeBron lets see it. Cmon we need to see the tape of you getting dunked on by Xavier transfer Jordan Crawford who went to Indiana for a year dunked on LeBron James in a pickup game and lets just say Mr. James is too shy to show us all the tape of what had happened.
I mean he has good reason to look like a dog with his tail in between his legs due to the fact that the guy whose is one of the greatest athletes in professional sports got dunked on like his name was Shawn Bradley. Lets be honest here nobody is perfect in whatever sport you play, the best wide receiver still have got their fair share of huge hits across the middle and Cy Young pitchers get roughed up once in awhile. Although what makes basketball different, its the only sport that features pick-up games where things like this could happen.
All these media people say how good LeBron does with the media and rarely ever screws up although I think because he hasnt messed up enough, the media jumps his ass when stuff like this happens. The new cop-out that Nike has made is that Crawford was wearing Adidas which I find hard to believe when here shows that Xavier wore Nike for the tournament so what sense would that make? I think its going to be their excuse on why the tape cant be released if its never shown. He handled it the worst way possible and I have an idea for LBJ that would probably save face in this situation
Nike should say to Ryan Miller who was filming that they are buying the tape from him and then shooting a commercial with the footage. Build the hype around the dunk and say you (speaking to young kids) can dunk over LeBron too some day and to "Make your own Witnesses." How the hell doesnt that sell shoes, yeah it might be a bit embarrassing for LeBron at first but when its all said and done I truly believe that makes money for LBJ. I am sure this hasnt happen to LeBron but trust me whats going to happen when he falls down on defense in an NBA game or this occurs again in an NBA game? No one can take that tape away....
-Charlie.
I mean he has good reason to look like a dog with his tail in between his legs due to the fact that the guy whose is one of the greatest athletes in professional sports got dunked on like his name was Shawn Bradley. Lets be honest here nobody is perfect in whatever sport you play, the best wide receiver still have got their fair share of huge hits across the middle and Cy Young pitchers get roughed up once in awhile. Although what makes basketball different, its the only sport that features pick-up games where things like this could happen.
All these media people say how good LeBron does with the media and rarely ever screws up although I think because he hasnt messed up enough, the media jumps his ass when stuff like this happens. The new cop-out that Nike has made is that Crawford was wearing Adidas which I find hard to believe when here shows that Xavier wore Nike for the tournament so what sense would that make? I think its going to be their excuse on why the tape cant be released if its never shown. He handled it the worst way possible and I have an idea for LBJ that would probably save face in this situation
Nike should say to Ryan Miller who was filming that they are buying the tape from him and then shooting a commercial with the footage. Build the hype around the dunk and say you (speaking to young kids) can dunk over LeBron too some day and to "Make your own Witnesses." How the hell doesnt that sell shoes, yeah it might be a bit embarrassing for LeBron at first but when its all said and done I truly believe that makes money for LBJ. I am sure this hasnt happen to LeBron but trust me whats going to happen when he falls down on defense in an NBA game or this occurs again in an NBA game? No one can take that tape away....
-Charlie.
BCS Brings the Hammer on the Mountain West
First off all, I would like to welcome back college football to Chucks Corner because it has honestly been awhile. Now I would like to say "Good one BCS, you have won again and now its pretty much looking like it is here to stay for the rest of my life." The Mountain West Conference who has been trying to wiggle their way out of the BCS but now they have signed a deal with the BCS through 2013.
I just give a big sigh of disappointment because its very possible that we are never getting a playoff system in college football. But also what this means is all you people who update their statuses on Facebook/Twitter need to stop bitchin' about "Man I wish College Football had a real playoff!" Who cares at this point, we cannot stop the Bowl Championship Series at least until 2013. That means four more years of watching bowl games where usually there is one controversy that allows us to debate about college football for two weeks and hearing those same people say "This team deserves to be there, why this team here in the first place?!" Just take a step back and realize its the nature of the beast.
Due to all of this, I rest my guns with the BCS for awhile. Might I write an article claiming that the ratings are completely screwed up, likely. But at this point, I feel there is nothing I can be done to reverse this playoff system. I hate to bring my personal life into the blog because then it feels like a real blog but any ways...take for example, I was talking to a man today at work about some electronic device that we didnt have and said "You probably have to go to Best Buy." He started complaining about how bad it was and their service is horrible (his own opinion). I feel that way with the BCS, no matter how many blogs and newspaper write complains about the BCS, it will not change.
You win BCS.
-Charlie.
I just give a big sigh of disappointment because its very possible that we are never getting a playoff system in college football. But also what this means is all you people who update their statuses on Facebook/Twitter need to stop bitchin' about "Man I wish College Football had a real playoff!" Who cares at this point, we cannot stop the Bowl Championship Series at least until 2013. That means four more years of watching bowl games where usually there is one controversy that allows us to debate about college football for two weeks and hearing those same people say "This team deserves to be there, why this team here in the first place?!" Just take a step back and realize its the nature of the beast.
Due to all of this, I rest my guns with the BCS for awhile. Might I write an article claiming that the ratings are completely screwed up, likely. But at this point, I feel there is nothing I can be done to reverse this playoff system. I hate to bring my personal life into the blog because then it feels like a real blog but any ways...take for example, I was talking to a man today at work about some electronic device that we didnt have and said "You probably have to go to Best Buy." He started complaining about how bad it was and their service is horrible (his own opinion). I feel that way with the BCS, no matter how many blogs and newspaper write complains about the BCS, it will not change.
You win BCS.
-Charlie.
The Illness Known as Marion is now a Maverick
I believe I told everyone that I felt Marion would be dealt when the Raptors sign Hedo last week and now it comes to fruition. You want to talk about a move that I cannot stand in the NBA off season so far and that would be the deal that sent Shawn Marion to Dallas in a three-team deal. First off lets break down the deal and then I will explain why its pretty much proven with Marion is a bad teammate for whatever reason denounced to man.
The deal goes down like this according to Ric Bucher via Twitter "Here's the deal: Marion/ Kris Humphries/ Greg Buckner to Dallas Devean George/Antoine Wright to Toronto Jerry Stackhouse/ Quincy Douby plus cash to Memphis. I like the deal for Toronto as Bucher said because they free up more cap room and now are able to sign Chris Bosh next year. I will go out on a limb and tell you this, I think Douby could have a break out year in Memphis because he gets an opportunity to actually play watch out for Douby.
This is why I hate this deal for Dallas. It has been proven over and over again that Marion doesnt work with teams. Phoenix, he just didnt seem to work with Nash and he wanted the ball way too much during his time there. Then things do not seem to work in Miami with Wade and then it seemed like his career went to die in Toronto. I mean he hasnt panned out the way he should have; shoots the ball way too much and even though he brings it on defense at times, he seems to give up again. Also the other Marion issue is he seems to react differently to coaches and it takes him awhile to get comfortable there. In addition, a lot like Boston they have become very old all of the sudden... Jason Kidd-Dirk Nowitzki-Josh Howard-Marion-Eric Dampier. Other than Howard, all of those guys are hovering around thirty plus Jason Terry being your first man off the bench. I have a gut feeling this will not work as well as Cuban hopes it does.
-Charlie.
The deal goes down like this according to Ric Bucher via Twitter "Here's the deal: Marion/ Kris Humphries/ Greg Buckner to Dallas Devean George/Antoine Wright to Toronto Jerry Stackhouse/ Quincy Douby plus cash to Memphis. I like the deal for Toronto as Bucher said because they free up more cap room and now are able to sign Chris Bosh next year. I will go out on a limb and tell you this, I think Douby could have a break out year in Memphis because he gets an opportunity to actually play watch out for Douby.
This is why I hate this deal for Dallas. It has been proven over and over again that Marion doesnt work with teams. Phoenix, he just didnt seem to work with Nash and he wanted the ball way too much during his time there. Then things do not seem to work in Miami with Wade and then it seemed like his career went to die in Toronto. I mean he hasnt panned out the way he should have; shoots the ball way too much and even though he brings it on defense at times, he seems to give up again. Also the other Marion issue is he seems to react differently to coaches and it takes him awhile to get comfortable there. In addition, a lot like Boston they have become very old all of the sudden... Jason Kidd-Dirk Nowitzki-Josh Howard-Marion-Eric Dampier. Other than Howard, all of those guys are hovering around thirty plus Jason Terry being your first man off the bench. I have a gut feeling this will not work as well as Cuban hopes it does.
-Charlie.
Braun v. Melvin: Going with Deputy Braun Here
I know I missed the Ken Macha's boat (if you dont know what I am talking about look at the Journal Sentinel picture on Tuesday) with this article but to be honest it needs to be cover in a blog that have a major focus on Wisconsin sports.
On Sunday, the first wave of shots were fired between Ryan Braun and Doug Melvin when Braunie made a comment about the starting pitching....
"Their starting pitching is a lot better than ours," Braun said. "They threw the ball a lot better than our starters did, and they swung the bats better than we did as well. Clearly, they were the better team. It's nice to get one win, but they clearly outperformed us in this series."
Speaking of the woeful series against the Chicago Cubs this weekend and Braun basically said what was on the mind of all the fans we were thinking about for the last two weeks now. I mean I could tell Braun that he needs to look at more sliders in the dirt and his batters need to deliver with guys with running in scoring position too. I have no problem with Braun saying what he did but he should have have kept it to himself.
Now what was the worst idea possible the General Manager Doug Melvin decided he needed to say something as well. Here is his quote... "It was inappropriate for him to say what he said, and I'm not happy about it," Melvin told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Monday. "To make the statements he made and also get on his teammates like that, it was irresponsible on his part. It just ticked me off."
Why even go there with Braun? I feel like Melvin needed to show off his ego and whose the boss in this franchise. Thats absolute crap, we should have learned from the Brewers beat writers that Braun/Melvin had a meeting and thats all we know. That is what should have happened instead of Melvin releasing this quote. Then Braun and him had that meeting I mentioned before after the spat now Doug is a "cool" guy.
I think the fact of the matter is Braun wants to win more than anyone not named Prince Fielder and sometimes he cant control his intensity. He is a young guy and these things will happen. Hopefully this will spark another run as most Braun rants do.
-Charlie.
On Sunday, the first wave of shots were fired between Ryan Braun and Doug Melvin when Braunie made a comment about the starting pitching....
"Their starting pitching is a lot better than ours," Braun said. "They threw the ball a lot better than our starters did, and they swung the bats better than we did as well. Clearly, they were the better team. It's nice to get one win, but they clearly outperformed us in this series."
Speaking of the woeful series against the Chicago Cubs this weekend and Braun basically said what was on the mind of all the fans we were thinking about for the last two weeks now. I mean I could tell Braun that he needs to look at more sliders in the dirt and his batters need to deliver with guys with running in scoring position too. I have no problem with Braun saying what he did but he should have have kept it to himself.
Now what was the worst idea possible the General Manager Doug Melvin decided he needed to say something as well. Here is his quote... "It was inappropriate for him to say what he said, and I'm not happy about it," Melvin told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Monday. "To make the statements he made and also get on his teammates like that, it was irresponsible on his part. It just ticked me off."
Why even go there with Braun? I feel like Melvin needed to show off his ego and whose the boss in this franchise. Thats absolute crap, we should have learned from the Brewers beat writers that Braun/Melvin had a meeting and thats all we know. That is what should have happened instead of Melvin releasing this quote. Then Braun and him had that meeting I mentioned before after the spat now Doug is a "cool" guy.
I think the fact of the matter is Braun wants to win more than anyone not named Prince Fielder and sometimes he cant control his intensity. He is a young guy and these things will happen. Hopefully this will spark another run as most Braun rants do.
-Charlie.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Sheed Goes to Beantown
Another big deal went down in the NBA Free Agency on Monday when Rasheed Wallace, one of the most intense players in the National Basketball Association decided to join the Boston Celtics which in my opinion vaulted the C's into being the best team in the Eastern Conference right now.
At first, I was wavering on this deal because I thought the combined intensity of Sheed and Kevin Garnett could become a real problem. But then my buddy Pat changed my mind with this comment last night... "I honestly think Sheed is a smart player and he catches a bad rap due to his technical fouls. Although he seems to bring it day in and day out." That statement completely reversed my opinion on the situation not to mention the stat of Wallace having fourteen consecutive double-digit scoring.
Then you take a gander at the lineup Boston brings out next year and it really blows your mind how good they can be despite the fears of that they all are 30+ (ironic how Boston has two of the oldest teams with New England having guys who could be my grandpa). Anyways, Boston has a great lineup that includes KG-Sheed-Paul Pierce-Ray Allen-Rondo as the starters. Then you got Starbury, Leon Powe, Big Baby Davis, and Kendrick Perkins off the bench making them very deep.
The other thing that people have to realize is Doc Rivers and KG have a way of ensuring that people that get brought in play Celtic-style basketball. They have no issues whatsoever with Stephon Marbury at the end of the season and even with the rumors early on this summer about Rajon Rondo, I feel like the Celtics have control more than most teams.
-Charlie.
At first, I was wavering on this deal because I thought the combined intensity of Sheed and Kevin Garnett could become a real problem. But then my buddy Pat changed my mind with this comment last night... "I honestly think Sheed is a smart player and he catches a bad rap due to his technical fouls. Although he seems to bring it day in and day out." That statement completely reversed my opinion on the situation not to mention the stat of Wallace having fourteen consecutive double-digit scoring.
Then you take a gander at the lineup Boston brings out next year and it really blows your mind how good they can be despite the fears of that they all are 30+ (ironic how Boston has two of the oldest teams with New England having guys who could be my grandpa). Anyways, Boston has a great lineup that includes KG-Sheed-Paul Pierce-Ray Allen-Rondo as the starters. Then you got Starbury, Leon Powe, Big Baby Davis, and Kendrick Perkins off the bench making them very deep.
The other thing that people have to realize is Doc Rivers and KG have a way of ensuring that people that get brought in play Celtic-style basketball. They have no issues whatsoever with Stephon Marbury at the end of the season and even with the rumors early on this summer about Rajon Rondo, I feel like the Celtics have control more than most teams.
-Charlie.
The Best 1-2 Punch are All-Stars
I think you should all know by now who I am referring to and that is Ryan Braun/Prince Fielder making the All-Star team. Both guys are having great seasons and deserved to be in there although there were two Brewers left off the list.
First off, I would like to say respectively to St. Louis... suck it. Braun was the top vote getter for outfielders which seems pretty hard to do when you are the most hated player in baseball. I think it clearly shows that everybody is taking notice of what Braun is doing and unlike Colin Cowherd comments, people do care about Braun. In the days of fantasy sports, guys like Braun are watched with a careful eye to see what they are doing from day to day and people like the fact that Braun is a bit brash. People always love the rock star and thats what Braunie is.
Now on to Prince, he is having one of the best seasons I have seen from a Brewer. He has amazed with his new found ability to hit the ball to left field and center where you hardly see teams putting on the shift for Fielder. In addition, he has been driving in more runs than anyone whose not a robot so his new found love for clutch hitting has been awesome. If its not for Albert Pujols' incredible year so far I believe that Prince is the MVP of the National League.
It is a true shame that both Trevor Hoffman and Yovani Gallardo did not make the All Star Game. The Hoff has been the savior of Milwaukee so far with his lights out performances in the 9th inning. We have never had a closer where as Brewers fans we know its game over once Trevor steps in. I hope he doesnt slow down and has a great second half. As for Yovani, I dont think anyone is actually watching what Yo is doing day in day out because he should be in St. Louis. Further, he should really be 10-3 right now but due to one bad pitch in Detroit and no run support against New York, he is a disappointing 8-5.
-Charlie.
First off, I would like to say respectively to St. Louis... suck it. Braun was the top vote getter for outfielders which seems pretty hard to do when you are the most hated player in baseball. I think it clearly shows that everybody is taking notice of what Braun is doing and unlike Colin Cowherd comments, people do care about Braun. In the days of fantasy sports, guys like Braun are watched with a careful eye to see what they are doing from day to day and people like the fact that Braun is a bit brash. People always love the rock star and thats what Braunie is.
Now on to Prince, he is having one of the best seasons I have seen from a Brewer. He has amazed with his new found ability to hit the ball to left field and center where you hardly see teams putting on the shift for Fielder. In addition, he has been driving in more runs than anyone whose not a robot so his new found love for clutch hitting has been awesome. If its not for Albert Pujols' incredible year so far I believe that Prince is the MVP of the National League.
It is a true shame that both Trevor Hoffman and Yovani Gallardo did not make the All Star Game. The Hoff has been the savior of Milwaukee so far with his lights out performances in the 9th inning. We have never had a closer where as Brewers fans we know its game over once Trevor steps in. I hope he doesnt slow down and has a great second half. As for Yovani, I dont think anyone is actually watching what Yo is doing day in day out because he should be in St. Louis. Further, he should really be 10-3 right now but due to one bad pitch in Detroit and no run support against New York, he is a disappointing 8-5.
-Charlie.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Can Bill Hall Just Sit On the Bench? Please....
Do you remember Bill Hall? No really ask yourself that question. The guy who was playing every position he could just to get into the starting lineup and drilled thirty-five home runs for the team becoming an instant fan favorite due to the fact he came out of nowhere. Then he signed a huge contract (the Crew overpaid him soooo much and our biggest mistake in the last five years) and it has all went to hell.
I am sick and tired of seeing #2 out at third base on a sunny day with a huge chew in his under lip. I want to punch the T.V. every time I see Hall look like a candy ass after he watches a fly ball get to the warning track. He acts like he still is a premier player on the Brewers which he is not instead Hall is probably the most hated Brewer. Not to mention, he looks completely lost at the plate and he just takes pathetic swings against left-handers who he "supposed" to be great against. Get his ass out of the lineup please.He is batting .198 and all he really helps out the Crew is by making defense plays.
The real reason he is in there is because we do owe Hall a ton of money therefore he needs to play or its money going to waste (who cares really). The other thing that is damning is its crystal effin clear what the Brewers should do and that is to start Mat Gamel every day at third with Casey McGehee at second. I do not see why Ken Macha reasoning in keeping Hall out there if we have a good group of guys that can get it done. Fans will not give two shits if Gamel struggles due to the fact he is a budding prospect.
Please no more Hall.
-Charlie.
I am sick and tired of seeing #2 out at third base on a sunny day with a huge chew in his under lip. I want to punch the T.V. every time I see Hall look like a candy ass after he watches a fly ball get to the warning track. He acts like he still is a premier player on the Brewers which he is not instead Hall is probably the most hated Brewer. Not to mention, he looks completely lost at the plate and he just takes pathetic swings against left-handers who he "supposed" to be great against. Get his ass out of the lineup please.He is batting .198 and all he really helps out the Crew is by making defense plays.
The real reason he is in there is because we do owe Hall a ton of money therefore he needs to play or its money going to waste (who cares really). The other thing that is damning is its crystal effin clear what the Brewers should do and that is to start Mat Gamel every day at third with Casey McGehee at second. I do not see why Ken Macha reasoning in keeping Hall out there if we have a good group of guys that can get it done. Fans will not give two shits if Gamel struggles due to the fact he is a budding prospect.
Please no more Hall.
-Charlie.
R.I.P. Steve McNair
Growing up in the late 90s and the early 2000s, you have a lot of favorite players for whatever reason it is. I myself liked the Tennessee Titans because of the Music City Miracle and their run to the Super Bowl that year. That also is the first Super Bowl that the Packers werent in that I vividly remember. I remember feeling bad for Kevin Dyson, Eddie George, and Steve McNair who was one of my favorite quarterbacks in that era.
Now McNair is gone as he was shot in the head in what is being called a homicide. My prayers go out to his family and all of his former teammates/coaches. I cant even fathom losing an old high school teammate that I was close with and I am positive there are people that at a lost of words with McNair now gone.
The fact that someone senselessly shot him just like Sean Taylor a couple years ago mind boggles me and saddens me that he isnt with us anymore. The other thing that I dont get is McNair never seemed like a guy who got into trouble and something like this happening to him was the farthest from my mind.
R.I.P. Steve "Air" McNair.
-Charlie.
Now McNair is gone as he was shot in the head in what is being called a homicide. My prayers go out to his family and all of his former teammates/coaches. I cant even fathom losing an old high school teammate that I was close with and I am positive there are people that at a lost of words with McNair now gone.
The fact that someone senselessly shot him just like Sean Taylor a couple years ago mind boggles me and saddens me that he isnt with us anymore. The other thing that I dont get is McNair never seemed like a guy who got into trouble and something like this happening to him was the farthest from my mind.
R.I.P. Steve "Air" McNair.
-Charlie.
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