My Hero Fallen from Grace, but Forgiven...

September 8, 1998. I was 16 years old, and I can still remember it like it was yesterday. At 9:18pm, my hero broke the most cherished record in sports. He connected for #62 on the first pitch in his 4th inning at-bat off Steve Traschel. He missed 1B, and first base coach Dave McKay pointed a jubilated McGwire back to touch the bag. He rounded the bases slapping the hands of Mark Grace and hugging Gary Gaetti. With his 10 year old son Matt waiting for him at home plate, Big Mac picked him up in his arms and held him up and shared this beautiful moment. Next, McGwire did what was probably the most gracious act anyone could have ever done; he walked over and hopped into the stands and embraced the Maris family. At that moment, Mark McGwire was God-like to all baseball fans, all the writers, teammates, coaches, opponents etc… everyone rooted for this big teddy bear. He could do no wrong.

March 17, 2005. I was 23 years old. Not even a year removed from college, sitting in my friend’s apartment in New York City, I waited all morning to watch the testimonies of the likes of Sammy Sosa, Rafael Palmeiro and Frank Thomas. The testimony before Congress that I was most eager to watch was Mark McGwire’s. I wanted him to throw Jose Canseco, who was also present, under the bus and tell the nation that they were all lies, just as the other ball players had done. McGwire didn’t do it. I wanted to believe that he was clean, that he didn’t cheat himself, his teammates, his coaches or his fans. But his testimony and silence spoke volumes. Even though he never said, or denied taking steroids, it was embarrassing. Not matter what, I still supported him and still wanted myself to believe that he never did anything wrong, even though deep down, I knew the truth.

January 11, 2010. Here I am, 28 years old. Still an admirer and biggest McGwire apologist you will ever find. When I first received an email on my phone yesterday with the subject line saying: “MLB Breaking News: Mark McGwire Admits Using Steroids During Record Breaking Season”, it took the wind out of my sails.

Shocked? If I said yes, I would be lying. Disappointed? Absolutely.

Look, I was expecting it at some point. Ever since McGwire was hired by the St. Louis Cardinals as their new hitting coach, ownership has stated that McGwire would come out and speak about his past. But I was expecting to see on Rotoworld.com or ESPN.com or even news from the San Francisco Chronicle or St. Louis Post-Dispatch stating that Mark McGwire will be addressing the media on such-and-such date. Not an email from Bleacher Report saying McGwire made an impromptu confession.

I stopped what I was doing at work, and logged into numerous sites to read what had happened, what he had said, and how it all played out. I had mixed emotions; angry, sad and relieved, but no matter what, I knew I would support him. I was glad to read that he didn’t hold back. That he told the truth during the phone conversation with the Associated Press. I knew even before reading it from sports writers that this would be emotional and very hard for McGwire. He is an emotional person. We’ve seen it before. He’s a proud person, has an ego, and cares about how he’ll be remembered.

During his emotional interview with Bob Costas, which had no parameters, I felt for him. He was hurt and I believe he really regrets taking PEDs and HGH. I have read many articles and comments from people who don’t believe him. They feel it was a hoax and a lie. Mike Francesca called him selfish because of the timing of the interview. How does the timing of the interview make him selfish? He had to come out and speak up about it at some point. He had to address the media and explain what happened before heading off to Florida for Spring Training. How is that selfish? I’m still trying to figure that out.

I do not think the entire interview came off well, and wish some of it had gone differently. I wish he came out and said that steroids did in fact help his performance. After all, they are called Performance Enhancing Drugs for a reason. He didn’t, and for this I was angry, but also felt sorry. He said that he only took them because he was riddled with injuries and wanted to get back on the field.

I agree with the majority of people with the fact that even taking steroids to get healthy is cheating, otherwise he wouldn’t have gotten back on the field as quickly to perform like he did. But what eats at me is the fact that people are calling him a liar for saying that. Why? Because he truly believes in his head and in his heart that he could have performed at the same level if he hadn’t taken the steroids? If you actually believe something, it’s not a lie. And that is the one thing he hasn’t done this whole time is lie about taking steroids. No, he never admitted to it, but not once has he ever lied about it.

As he stated, he has always been a homerun hitter. He held the all-time PAC 10 homerun record while at USC. He was a star on the US Olympic Baseball team. He set the ML Rookie single season record with 49 HR’s. He went on to hit 32, 33, 39, 22 and 42 HR’s during the ages of 24-28. He did that clean. Yes, I know he admitted that he tried steroids once in the 89 off season, but that wouldn’t affect his performances for the 3 years after he took the low dosage that he claims to have taken. Think about this; he had 220 career HR's thru the 1992 season. 217 of those HR’s were over the period of 6 seasons (he hit 3 in a brief stint with the A’s in 1986). That is an average of 36 HR’s per season. During that time, in all of baseball, (yes between both AL and NL) McGwire finished in the top 3 in HR’s three times, 7th once and out of the top 10 in 1991. He was a natural homerun hitter. That’s what he did. He punished baseballs. As a professional athlete, if you want to succeed and perform consistently, you have to have that mindset that you are great at what you do and be confident in yourself and believe you can be one of the best. So no matter what, he believed he could only get better as he got older.

He took PEDs during his injury riddled seasons in 1993 and 1994 to get back on the field. Not to hit bigger and better homeruns. He feels he didn’t need PEDs to hit homeruns. He says he needed them to get back on the field. What he needed in his mind to become a better hitter was to study hitting as a science. Cut down on his stroke, study pitchers, and understand the mindset of pitchers. Once he did that and started performing again, HE believes that that is the reason he was able to do things he did on the field.

We all know that the PEDs helped, but right now, he doesn’t. He doesn’t understand, or doesn’t want to believe, that PEDs made him a better player because he was able to get back on the field quicker, help his body feel normal during the season, which attributes to performing better. He has to come around and realize it on his own. But that doesn’t make him a liar. That doesn’t make him a bad person. Still, people are crucifying him.

McGwire has always been revered as a great teammate, a great father, a great philanthropist. I followed his career closely from start to finish. I don’t know him personally, but I do know he cares about his ego and his reputation. If he could let go of his ego, then he will finally realize and accept that PEDs helped him. And this is the sad part about it. If and when he does that, will he be viewed in a better light?

I can understand where McGwire is coming from. Although the PEDs helped him, I believe that he still would have been one of the greatest homerun hitter’s of all-time. Call me blind or naive if you want. He played in an age where many, many ballplayers were cheating, both hitters and pitchers. He dwarfed most of the competition. Imagine if there weren’t any PEDs in the game, and it was in fact a level playing field. McGwire probably would have been one of the best. Not at the level in which he finished his career. Instead of hitting 52, 58, 70 and 65 homeruns during the mid to late 90’s, maybe he would have hit 35, 40, 48 and 42 instead, and he would still be considered one of the greatest homerun hitters of his generation. He would have been on the cusp of 500 HR’s (if not more) and would be considered for the Hall of Fame.

I won’t get into why I believe he should be in the Hall of Fame. That’s not what I’m writing about, or want to talk about. I will write about that in the coming days. This is about getting back to and remembering McGwire bashing homeruns and the enjoyment and thrill I got out of it, especially out of the ’98 season. And I know every baseball fan out there enjoyed it as well.

Think about when you were younger. Did you ever look up to someone, whether it is a family member, an actor, an entertainer or a professional athlete? If you did, I’m sure to this day you have admiration for that person because when you are a child you want to be like them, you think the world of that person. You study their stats, you read everything about them, and you feel like you know them. And when you’re older and think back on those times, you feel young again and those memories resurface and can very easily put a smile on your face.

I showcase my McGwire memorabilia proudly. I still have great, great memories of watching him play. My friends still get on me and make fun of me for my passion of baseball, the Oakland A’s, and for McGwire. I’m a kid at heart, just trapped in a 28 year old body, and to this day, I get just as much enjoyment (if not more) out of baseball as I did when I was a kid. And that’s what hurts about the truth, learning that your hero had cheated the game and cheated you as a fan.

But that doesn’t make them a bad person. People make mistakes. Some mistakes are bigger than others. He’s still human and he regrets what he has done. I do not condone him, or the other players that cheated in this game, but it happened. PEDs are now part of the game, whether we like it not. And I understand why people are angry with him and can’t forgive him, but I can. Every time I think about my childhood and think about all the great times I had watching baseball and going to Yankee Stadium to see the A’s play, especially the last 3 games he played as an Oakland A. I will always remember the joy he provided me as a child. I will never lose that and he will always remain my child hero.

I’m looking forward to McGwire coming back to the game and sharing his knowledge with two of the best hitters in the game today, Albert Pujols and Matt Holliday. McGwire deserves to be back in the game. He isn’t the only person that disgraced the game, but he is one of the few that have confronted it and wants to move forward. Now, what is so wrong with that?

ALCS Game 1 Analysis---Oakland Beat Themselves

I had promised myself that I would keep away from writing about the playoffs, believing that if I did write, it would jinx the A's. But after watching last nights fiasco displayed by Oakland, I can't just sit back and not write about it.

After watching Oakland's performance against the Twins in the ALDS, I started to think to myself that maybe Macha knew what he was doing after all. WRONG.

Macha once again showed how inept he is when it comes to managing in big games---and this does not include the fact that he is starting Rich Harden in Game 3, instead of Dan Haren.

First, Zito was missing the strike zone. Yes, he did get squeezed on some calls, but his fastball was missing high and away on right handed batters. He wasn't using his 12-6 curve often enough, instead relying on his fastball when he was ahead in the count. Macha should have picked up on this.

By looking at the box score in the first 2 innings, and hearing that Zito sat down the first 8 batters to start the game, one would think that Zito was off to a great start. But the fact is that of the 21 batters Zito faced, he started off 13 of those hitters with a ball, starting himself behind in the count.

His command was off, forcing him to use a fastball more often (see Inge's HR in the top of 3rd), but even when he was up in the count, or even at 2-2, he failed to use his breaking ball.

Zito did get squeezed on a number of calls by the inconsistency of the home plate umpire. There were 3 distinct instances that had major impacts on the game.

The first came in the top of the 3rd. With 2 outs, Inge, the number 9 hitter, had just homered, and Granderson followed up by hitting a double to right field (after, of course, Zito had a 2-0 count on him). Polanco followed and didn't take the bat off his shoulders. Zito started Polanco off 2-0, and then came back with 2 fastballs to work the count back to 2-2. His next pitch was a ball up high and out of the zone. He was forced to throw another fastball, which was taken by Polanco. The ball was knee high, over the plate, but called for ball 4. An obvious strike, which would have gotten the A's out of the inning, but instead was called ball 4, extending the inning even longer. At this point, Macha should have gotten someone up in the pen. He had started 3 of the first 5 hitters with 2 consecutive balls, obviously getting squeezed, and not having pin-point control, which is what makes Zito an effective pitcher.

The second time came to the following batter, Sean Casey. He stepped to the plate with runners now on 1B and 2B, 2 out. Zito once again starts Casey off with a 2-0 count (at this point Macha should have been on the phone and getting someone warmed up without question). Zito was lucky enough to work the count to 3-2. He finally uses his breaking ball on the 3-2 pitch, and it drops into the strike zone for a strike, but somehow was called a ball. Absolute non-sense. Now, Macha should have been yelling at the ump, making a scene, showing emotion, and of course, should have had someone up warming up in the bull pen. One more run scores in the 3rd due to a play that Chavez should have made on a hard ground ball hit by Magglio Ordonez (and yes, was jinxed by a text I received from a buddy of mine saying "Chavez is silly" after a nice backhanded play Chavez had made on Magglio Ordonez the inning before, and the mistake made by me texting back "Gold Glove")

The third time came after Milton Bradley had grounded into an inning ending double play in the bottom of the 3rd (I'll get to that). Zito came out to start the 4th (with no one warming up in the bull pen). Pudge was leading off the 4th, and Zito, of course, starts him off with a ball out of the strike zone. Pudge fouls off the next pitch, so Zito then throws a 1-1 breaking ball that was dead in the zone, but somehow is called a ball. Instead of the count being 1-2, it is now 2-1. Zito's next pitch is a fastball at the knees. Home Run, 3-0, Tigers.

It fell apart from there. Zito walked the next batter Craig Monroe. He was able to get Marcus Thames to hit a ground ball, although a hard hit ground ball, to Chavez, who made and nice play and excellent through, only to be botched by D'Angelo Jimenez, who is replacing the sure handed, slick fielding, Mark Ellis. Jimenez had enough time to set his feet on the pivot, and make an accurate throw. Instead, he tries to do it all in one motion, and threw the ball away, allowing Thames to take second base.

At this point, you would think that Zito would come out of the game and be replaced by a righty. Nope, Macha leaves Zito in the game to face Inge, a right handed hitter, who hit a line drive home run in his last at-bat. This time Inge hits a double off the left centerfield wall, just missing another homerun by about 2 feet. Another run scores, 4-0 Tigers. Curtis Granderson comes to the plate, grounds out to the Scutaro, which should have been the final out of the inning, but instead, allows Inge to go to third, and allows Polanco to come to the plate. Again, at this point I was screaming for Macha to take Zito out of the game. Bring in Gaudin to face the righty. Instead, he leaves him in and Polanco singles to center, 5-0 Tigers. Macha finally replaces Zito after the next hitter, Sean Casey, singles to right center. A little late at this point.

Don't get me wrong, it wasn't all Macha's fault for them losing. But he could have stopped the bleeding by pulling Zito in favor for his bullpen, which was strong, pitching 5 1/3, allowing just 4 hits and 2 walks. The bullpen at least kept them in the game, but it was their hitting their ultimately did them in. This is where I am frustrated.

6 out of the 9 innings, Oakland was able to get at least a runner to 2B with less than 2 outs. They were unable to score them. They were 0-13 with RISP. Inexcusable. Pathetic. They grounded into 4 double plays. That’s right, 4 Double Plays.

The best chance for the A's to do something offensively came in the Bottom of the 4th. They were down 5-0, but still, it's not like Robertson was dominating them (Robertson allowed 6 hits and 3 BB thru 5 innings, hardly dominant). Big Hurt led off the inning with a walk. The next batter, Jay Payton, doubled to left. Runners on 2nd and 3rd, No Outs. Infield playing back, ready to surrender 2 runs. Let me repeat that just to make sure you get this straight, as long as the A's next two hitters, Eric Chavez and Nick Swisher, just put the bat on the ball, they were going to allow Thomas and Payton to score which would make it a 3 run game. Of course this is when the impatience of the hitters comes to play.

Robertson started Thomas and Payton out with two consecutive balls. You would think that Chavy would at least take the first pitch. Nope. Instead, he swings at the first two, fouling off the pitches. He was able to work the count to 2-2 on two straight junk sliders that were down and away. On the next pitch, Chavy ended up striking out on a slider down and away, the same pitch that Robertson threw for 2 consecutive balls. An obvious junk pitch that Chavy had no business swinging at.

The next batter Nick Swisher steps in. At least this time Swish takes the first two pitches for balls. 2-0. The next pitch he should be taking, but instead swings and fouls off the pitch. He fouls off the 2-1 pitch to bring the count to 2-2. On the next pitch, Robertson throws a pitch high and outside about chin high that Swisher decides to swing at. Strike 3. 2 out, runners still stranded. Scutaro steps up. He worked the count to 3-2, but decided to take a strike on the insider corner. A borderline pitch, but at this point, you can't be looking to take a walk with D'Angelo Jimenez up next. You have to be swinging the bat on close pitches, especially with runners on 2nd and 3rd with 2 out, down 5-0.

Let's make one thing straight here, Robertson didn't dominate. He didn't have electric stuff. Oakland was able to get to him, but when there were runners on base, they helped Robertson out. There's a big difference between Oakland helping him out and Roberts making quality pitches and hitting his location, like what Kenny Rogers did to the Yankees. Oakland just swung at garbage pitches that they usually do not swing at. They were impatient, therefore helping out Robertson.

There were a lot of factors that were involved in this loss. Macha leaving Zito out there too long, the home plate umpire being inconsistent on his calls, the A's hitters not capitalizing on many scoring opportunities, and their defense letting up. But ultimately, Oakland beat themselves.

Buy or $ell?

Buy or Sell? That is the question. With the All-Star break long gone and forgotten, it is now time for teams to decide whether they are buyers or sellers. They have until July 31 to make the decision if they believe they are actual contenders, or just pretenders. Decide whether they should gear up for the future, or stock up for the playoff run. Let’s take a team-by-team look at who should be buyers or sellers.

AL East

Boston RedSox
1st Place 53-33
Decision: BUYERS
The RedSox have a few holes to fill. They could trade for a corner outfielder, and possibly add another arm in their bullpen, but their pitching isn’t much of an issue. If they could get that corner outfielder to protect Manny in their already stellar lineup, it would make them instant contenders for the AL Pennant.
TARGET: Bobby Abreu

New York Yankees
2nd Place 50-36 – 3 GB
2nd Place Wild Card – 6 GB
Decision: BUYERS
A lot of questions for this ball club. The biggest question on Cashman’s plate is whether to go after a top pitcher or a top hitter. Personally, I’d go for the pitching. They are still putting up runs with the lineup they have, and they are expecting Sheffield and Matsui to return by September, just in time for the stretch run. Their problem all year hasn’t been scoring runs, it’s been keeping runs from scoring on them. Randy Johnson isn’t the same anymore, Chacon is on the verge of being released, Wright is pulled from a game faster than 15 year old Jimmy losing his virginity, Pavano keeps getting worse feedback than Barbaro, their bullpen has a hard enough time getting the ball into Rivera’s hands. A lot of issues. So what do you do? Now that Cashman has total control of all baseball decisions, he doesn’t want to give up his top prospects like Philip Hughes, which is smart. But you can’t give up nothing to get something. They are in a bind. Their best option might be to go after Mark Redman of the Royals to use as stop gap. There aren’t many top pitchers that are going to available come the deadline. Cashman, I hope you’re creative because I haven’t heard one plausible solution from anyone yet.
TARGET: Alfonso Soriano, Jake Westbrook – but both Nats and Indians will ask for Hughes

Toronto Blue Jays
3rd Place 49-39 – 5 GB
3rd Place Wild Card – 8 GB
Decision: BUYERS
They have enough offense to support them, but their pitching has been OK, not horrible, but OK. Halladay has been a true Ace, and now Burnett is healthy, they have a reliable #2. They, like everyone else, will be looking for a Starter, but best of luck with that. I think they can get bye with Chris-Sabo-Goggles Gustavo Chacin as their #3 and Ted Lilly and Casey Janssen rounding out the rest of the rotation. I personally think they should focus on some bullpen help. They have to make sure they can get the ball in the hands of one of the most reliable closers in the game, B.J. Ryan. They have a legit shot at this division. My opinion, do not sell. Buy, buy, and buy. And what’s the worst that happens? With them buying, they are still gearing up to next year’s AL Pennant.
TARGET: Guillermo Mota, Jake Westbrook

Baltimore Orioles
4th Place 41-19 – 14 GB
10th Place Wild Card – 17 GB
Decision: SELL (The Franchise)
They are in complete disarray. They are like a bad case of Herpes. Once they think they solved something and could be heading in the right direction, another problem comes up. They thought they had the vaccine for their pitching woes, so they went out and hired Leo Mazzone. Even that magician couldn’t solve that problem (especially Cabrera’s wildness). They thought they had great team chemistry, now there are questions being raised about Tejada’s leadership. So what to do? Start dumping salary. This team is not going to get any better by the time Tejada’s contract is up. Might as well get rid of him, and dump him for a lot of young talent. They also have some other veteran players, making a lot of money, that teams would be interested in, like Javy Lopez, Kevin Millar, Jeff Conine, Melvin Mora and Kris Benson, to name a few.
VETS TO BOOT: Tejada, Lopez, Millar, Conine, Mora and Benson

Tampa Bay Devil Rays
5th Place 39-50 – 15.5 GB
11th Place Wild Card – 18.5 GB
Decision: SELL
Hey, at least they aren’t worse than the Royals, so they’ve go that going for them…which is nice. Look at their roster, they aren’t that bad. They already traded Toby Hall to the Dodgers and Aubrey Huff to the Astros. Now they just need to trade Julio Lugo to make room for B.J. Upton and Travis Lee so they can bring up D. Young (the D stands for Degenerate). They have a good young nucleus. Why screw that up? They can easily get good young pitching talent for Lee and Lugo. This team is on the right track. Now, don’t F it up.
VETS TO BOOT: Lugo and Lee


AL Central

Detroit Tigers
1st Place 59-29
Decision: BUYERS
Personally, I don’t think they can keep it up. I also wouldn’t be surprised to see them tumble and not make the playoffs. Seriously, it’s the Tigers. I hope it doesn’t happen, but it can. And I feel bad for the Tiger fans. It’s like that girl you meet at the bar, she looks great, she’s talking to you, you buy her a few drinks, then BOOM. She tells you she has a boyfriend. Just a punch to the stomach. But hey, at least you felt good for a while. Ok, so what should they do? Buy of course. Ride the wave. But go for some veteran hitting and pitching. They could use some left handed bats, so ideally Bobby Abreu would fit the bill, or even Travis Lee could be valuable. There have also been rumors that the Tigers could be interested in Jeremy Burnitz or even Matt “Walrus” Stairs. They also need to shop for a veteran pitcher, like John Smoltz and some bull pen help to get to Todd Jones, because Francisco Rodney has floundered a little lately.
TARGET: Abreu, Lee, Burnitz, Stairs, Smoltz, Mota

Chicago WhiteSox
2nd Place 57-31 – 2 GB
1st Place Wild Card
Decision: BUYERS
Chicago might be the best all-around team in my opinion. No, I’m not an Ozzie Guillen fan, but he is a smart manager. The team has good chemistry and does things well in all facets of the game. But the one area they could improve is getting another pitcher, and maybe one more outfield bat. Torii Hunter is out there, but I highly doubt that the Twins would trade Hunter within their division. Another outfielder they could target who is reportedly on the market is Andruw Jones (they’d probably take McCarthy for him). They could go after Carl Crawford, but they’d obviously have to give up a whole lot to get him, so I would scratch that idea. So maybe they should just focus on the pitching. They are interested in Jason Schmidt, but they’d have to give up Brandon McCarthy and Brian Anderson, but maybe they could work out a deal where they get Schmidt and Randy Winn in the deal? It’s worth exploring. But even with this current roster, they could win the World Series.
TARGET: Schmidt, Andruw Jones

Minnesota Twins
3rd Place 47-49 – 11 GB
4th Place Wild Card – 9 GB
Decision: STAY PUT
I like their team, a lot. They have great pitching. They have good young players that are starting to play well, and they have a player in Torii Hunter that wants to re-sign with them in the off-season. Why mess with that? They finally caught fire, but it might be too late. They were on fire, but so were the WhiteSox and Tigers, and they were unable to make up ground. It’s OK. Keep trying for this year, because you never know, maybe they can catch the Tigers if they fall, but worse comes to worse, you are all ready for next year, especially behind their top guns Santana and Liriano
DON’T SELL ANYONE (Unless you trade Hunter, get young talent back, then sign him in the off season)

Cleveland Indians
4th Place 40-47 – 18.5 GB
9th Place Wild Card – 16.5 GB
Decision: SELLERS
Indians are done for the year. Stick a fork in them. Ok, that was corny, but you get the picture. They are possibly the biggest disappointment this year, probably just as bad as if you are about to get it on for the first time, but realize its that time of the month for your girl so it has to be delayed for a later date. That’s what these Indians were like. Now the fans have to wait til next year to get the pleasure out of watching them win. So who do they get rid of? Easy. First, Aaron Boone. They have Andy Marte, who they gave up in the Coco Crisp deal, waiting in the wings. Bring him up now. Ronnie Belliard is 30 years old, they can get good value for him. And all teams are looking for pitching right now, so they can always kick Westbrook, Byrd and Wickman to the curb. Just gear up for the next year.
VETS TO BOOT: Boone, Belliard, Westbrook, Byrd and Wickman

Kansas City Royals
5th Place 31-56 – 27.5 GB
12th Place Wild Card – 25.5 GB
Decision: SELLERS
Allan Baird just needs to get rid of his veterans, and I think he had that in mind when he signed Reggie Sanders in the off season. Sort of like when a guy is in a cold spell, they go after a girl, and then get rid of her for younger talent. Enough teams are inquiring about Sanders and from the sounds of it Matt Stairs and Mike Sweeney. They won’t get much for Sweeney or Stairs, but they have no future left in the organization, which is unfortunate because Sweeney was expecting things to be turned around by now. I don’t know which team is in worse disarray, the Royals or Orioles.
VETS TO BOOT: Sanders, Stairs, Sweeney


AL West

Oakland A’s
Tied 1st Place 45-43
Tied 5th Place Wild Card – 12 GB
Decision: BUYERS
They started off to a bad start once again, bounced back excellent to the tune of a 10 game winning streak, hit their plateau, then plummeted right before the All-Star break. So what does Billy Beane do? Buy if possible. The A’s have been haunted by injuries (Harden, Loaiza, Street, Bradley, Crosby) --- Ok, I was happy when Loaiza went down, I won’t lie, but as for the others, imagine if and when they get healthy. They can take control and have “Hand” in this division. They could use some bull pen help, but can’t afford much. They could talk to the Pirates about Mike Gonzalez or even Oliver Perez, who they just sent down to the minors, which means they wouldn’t have to give up much. A power bat would be ideal, which is more of a reason why they should have went for Adam Dunn last year, because now the Reds won’t trade him. The other option is to explore Soriano. They have Dan Meyer in the minors, who they could give up, would be risky with Zito leaving at the end of the year, but I think it would be worth it. Soriano could also move back to 2B and give them some right handed pop in that lineup. Shoot, if they signed Loaiza to a 3 year $21 mil contract, I think they could take on Soriano’s contract, which was $10mil for the year. There is also talk of them targeting Greg Maddux.
TARGET: Soriano, Gonzalez, Perez, Maddux

Texas Rangers
Tied 1st Place 45-43
Tied 5th Place Wild Card – 12 GB
Decision: BUYERS
Their lineup is stacked. And you have to figure Tiexiera is going to heat up hotter than the Texas sun. So the big question is whether or not their pitching can keep them in the race. Personally, I don’t think they can (but watch, I’ll be wrong on this prediction too). They have Adam Eaton set to return soon, which will be good. But they need a veteran pitcher, someone like, say, Livan Hernandez. Washington would probably give him up for mid-level prospects. They could also use some bull pen help.
TARGET: HERNANDEZ

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
3rd Place 43-45 – 2 GB
7th Place Wild Card – 14 GB
Decision: BUYERS
They started getting hot right before the Break. They did the smart thing and got rid of Jeff Weaver, and brought his younger brother, Jered, back up from the minors (Actually, I would have opted for Escobar to go). They are going to bring up Howie Kendrick. But can him, and Napoli help bring them the AL West crown? That will be tough. They need hitting, bad. Their pitching will be fine. They just need bats in that lineup. The obvious player to help fill that hole is Alfonso Soriano (I think just about every team is after Soriano). He could play LF, 2B and DH. He’d fit perfectly in their lineup. They could also use some bull pen help, but their main target is Soriano. They could also look in the direction of Tejada (but Cabrera has been excellent at SS – although, they could move him to 2B or 3B) and Abreu to play LF, which would move Garrett Anderson to full-time DH. They have money to spend, and owner Art Moreno is willing to spend it.
TARGET: Soriano, Tejada, Abreu

Seattle Mariners
4th Place 43-46 – 2.5 GB
8th Place Wild Card – 14.5 GB
Decision: BUYERS
They will fade off, but what the heck, might as well prove it to your fans that you’re going for it. And who knows, if they get the right pieces, they might be able to put on a run for the AL West crown. Their biggest need, just like everyone else, is pitching. They should go after Mark Redman or Livan Hernandez. There isn’t much out there, so they would have to just settle. As for hitting, they could upgrade at SS, and try to go after Tejada, but they are also in desperate need for a CF, so Andruw Jones could be an option.. Maybe they too could try to spring for a Schmidt/Winn deal with San Fran.
TARGET: Redman, Hernandez, Tejada, Andruw Jones, Schmidt, Winn


NL East

New York Mets
1st Place 53-36
Decision: BUYERS
Believe it or not, they have a lot of holes to fill, primarily pitching. They MUST go after a Starter. No one really knows how serious Pedro’s injury is. No one knows if him and Glavine can keep pitching the way they have been all year (Well, Glavine really hasn’t pitched great in June and July, where his ERA in those months have ballooned over 5). Are they going to rely on Traschel and Soler as their 4 and 5 starters? They could bring in Livan Hernandez, which would help eat innings, but I don’t think he is the answer. Personally, if I was Omar Minaya, I’d go hard after D-Train. They’ll demand Pelfrey and/or Milledge and probably someone like Heilman. I would nix Milledge, but I’d throw Pelfrey in the deal. D-Train could be the difference maker for this team. He’s a proven veteran. Pelfrey has tossed 1 ML game. This isn’t a Kazmir for Zambrano deal. Pelfrey isn’t a “can’t miss” prospect. As for the offensive side, they could go after Soriano, but once again, they’d have to give up a lot. If you’re going to give up a lot, I’d go for the pitching, but that’s just me.
TARGET: Hernandez, Dontrelle Willis

Philadelphia Phillies
2nd Place 40-47 – 12 GB
8th Place Wild Card – 5.5 GB
Decision: Wait til last week in July
They can still get the Wild Card. It’s not out of reach. But apparently they want to dump salary quicker than Rocky was dropping his opponents prior to Clubber Lang. They want to dump Abreu and/or Pat Burrell’s contracts. I think it’s a tough call for Ed Wade. Rebuild or go for it? Maybe he just doesn’t believe his team can do it this year. He might as well wait to see if his team can turn things around and go on a run.
TARGET: No One just Yet
VETS TO BOOT: No One just Yet

Atlanta Braves
3rd Place 40-49 – 13 GB
9th Place Wild Card – 6.5 GB
Decision: SELLERS
Their reign of 14 consecutive Division Titles is over. Time to rebuild. But it was a hell of a run. You have to tip your cap to both GM John Schurholtz and Manager Bobby Cox for the job they have done. Just couldn’t pull off the miracle once again this year. Due to that, they might as well dump their veterans. Reports say Smoltz would accept a deal to Detroit, and it is rumored that they may be shopping the Jones’ (Chipper and Andruw) and even Tim Hudson.
VETS TO BOOT: Smoltz, Chipper and Andruw Jones, Hudson

Florida Marlins
4th Place 38-48 – 13.5 GB
10th Place Wild Card – 7.5 GB
Decision: STAY PUT
Out of any team in baseball, they have the best foundation. Great manager, great young positional players to build the team around (Miguel Cabrera), good young pitching, and a top shelf young pitcher to build your staff around (Willis). Don’t break it up. Loria pays peanuts to these guys (literally, he gives them peanuts) and they are already in the hunt for the Wild Card. Wait til next year when they contend, then the year after when they are the best team in baseball.
TARGET: No one
VETS TO BOOT: No one

Washington Nationals
5th Place 38-52 – 15.5 GB
11th Place Wild Card – 9.5 GB
Decision: SELLERS
They have Vets they can get rid of for a good core of young players, like Livan, Jose Guillen and Soriano. Just get rid of them. They don’t want to play in Washington, they’d rather compete for a championship some place else. This is the time Bowden can make his mark and do something good before he leaves by building a good foundation for this team.
VETS TO BOOT: Hernandez, Guillen, Soriano


NL Central

St. Louis Cardinals
1st Place 48-39
Decision: BUYERS
Even with the loss of Pujols for a couple weeks, they were able to stay on top of the NL Central. Rolen carried their offense with the help of Eckstein and even Edmonds. They can always use more pop in their lineup, but there isn’t much to fill their needs, unless they go after Soriano or Jose Vidro to play 2B or even try to pry away Raul Ibanez from the Mariners to play OF. Their biggest needs is Starting Pitching though. One place they could try to get it, Tim Hudson of the Braves. He’d fill the void that is being left by Mulder right now, and could be a big boost to their rotation.
TARGET: Soriano, Vidro, Ibanez, Hudson

Cincinnati Reds
2nd Place 45-44 – 4 GB
Tied 2nd Place Wild Card – 1.5 GB
Decision: BUYERS
Buy, buy, buy. Jerry Narron has done a fantastic job with this team. They have a realistic chance at the Wild Card. Their biggest need is 1 more starting pitcher, which someone like Mark Redman or Jake Westbrook could fill (remember, no real difference makers out there). They are also in desperate need for a closer, a role Bob Wickman can fill. They could also use an outfield bat (Ibanez) and move Dunn over to 1B, which would put Hatteberg onto the bench (he’s done a nice job though) and allows him to pinch hit and gives that team depth.
TARGET: Redman, Westbrook, Wickman, Ibanez

Milwaukee Brewers
3rd Place 44-46 – 5.5 GB
Tied 5th Place – 3 GB
Decision: STAY PUT
They can make a run at the playoffs, and if they want to, go ahead and trade for a starter like Westbrook or Redman, but don’t sacrifice too much young talent. And whatever they do, do not trade Carlos Lee. He wants to remain a Brewer, and when was the last time anyone has ever said that?
TARGET: Westbrook, Redman

Houston Astros
4th Place 43-46 – 6 GB
7th Place Wild Card – 3.5 GB
Decision: BUYERS
They just got Clemens back and maybe they’ll stop hitting like pansies and score him some runs. They have Oswalt and Pettitte who are very good pitchers (Oswalt the best actually). Their bull pen is solid with Lidge closing out the games (although isn’t the same Lidge as a year ago). Where they need help is offensively, and a lot of it. Yes, payroll is tight. They just traded for Aubrey Huff who has been on fire lately, but they could definitely use a OF. Top of that list is either Torii Hunter or Andruw Jones in my opinion. They could also go after Pat Burrell or Bobby Abreu, but I think they would have to absorb too much of their contract and wouldn’t be willing to do it. One of those two guys could easily bring them back to the World Series, and who knows, maybe even it this year. I wasn’t a believer in Houston the last 2 years, but they proved me wrong each time. I’m not doing that again, especially if they can get their hands on a top OF.
TARGET: Hunter, Andruw Jones, Burrell, Abreu

Chicago Cubs
5th Place 34-54 – 14.5 GB
12th Place Wild Card – 12 GB
Decision: SELLERS
Their season is over. Like Oakland, they have suffered too many injuries (Prior, Wood, Lee), but unlike Oakland, they couldn’t win games while their top players were on the DL. Shame. Now Dusty Bakers rear is on the hot seat, and it’s not his fault. But they have some players they could get rid of to shed some payroll and some contracts that are in their final year (Juan Pierre-who has turned it on a little as of late) and get something in return for him. It might be a while til we see the Cubs in contention again.
VETS TO BOOT: Prior, Wood, Maddux, Pierre, Jacque Jones, Todd Walker

Pittsburgh Pirates
6th Place 30-60 – 19.5 GB
12th Place Wild Card 17 GB
Decision: SELLERS (but don’t sell much)
They actually have some good young fawn. Some baby boomers. They can build the team around Bay, and Freddy Sanchez has come around nicely. Zach Duke is having a something like a Sophomore Slump, but I don’t know if this technically counts as his sophomore season. 2 years from now they can compete. But for now, get rid of some dead weight like Oliver Perez, which for some reason, teams want, beats me.
VETS TO BOOT: Oliver Perez


NL West

San Diego Padres
1st Place 48-40
Decision: BUYERS
The NL West could end up being the best divisional race in all of baseball. Who would have predicted this division to be as good as it is right now? You? I don’t think so? Me? Definitely not. I also certainly did not think the Padres would be where they are with Peavy pitching as poorly as he has been (poorly as in Peavy terms). Here they are, on top of the division and with an excellent chance to stay there. 2 needs. 1) Starting Pitcher. So obvious choice here is probably Jake Westbrook. 2) Outfielder/Power Hitter. Obvious choice is Soriano, although I do not think they could afford Soriano, unless Washington eats a good chunk of his contract. I believe going after Soriano is worth it. He’d be able to hit in that ballpark. Shoot, if he can hit at RFK, he can hit anywhere. The question just remains, will Kevin Towers pull the trigger to put them over the top?
TARGET: Westbrook, Soriano

L.A. Dodgers
2nd Place 46-42 – 2 GB
1st Place Wild Card
Decision: BUYERS
Another surprise team. Nomar has really helped this team out offensively. Now the hot rumor is Soriano going to L.A. Soriano in that lineup would do wonders (but he would also do wonders in most teams lineups). Abreu and Burrell are also options. Their other biggest need is health. If they can actually stay healthy, they will have a good race with San Diego to win the division. Another area of concern: Making sure Grady Little doesn’t leave Brad Penny in an important game too long.
TARGET: Soriano, Abreu, Burrell

Colorado Rockies
Tied 3rd Place 44-43 – 3.5 GB
Tied 2nd Place Wild Card – 1.5 GB
Decision: BUYERS
I don’t think it’s likely that they’ll end up making the playoffs, but they haven’t played this well since 1996. Helton is the leader to this young team. Holliday is the MVP. Their pitchers actually pitch well at their home ball park. A pleasant surprise. I wouldn’t move their youth, which is the majority of their team. Their main concern is budget issues, but they should go after at least 1 Starting Pitcher. So that brings up the names Mark Redman and Jake Westbrook once again.
TARGET: Redman, Westbrook

San Francisco Giants
Tied 3rd Place 45-44 – 3.5 GB
Tied 2nd Place Wild Card – 1.5 GB
Decision: SELLERS
I know, I know, they are only 3.5 out of the West and 1.5 out of the Wild Card. But I am a firm believer that with out Bonds being 100% healthy, or Bonds being in jail, they can not make the playoffs. Since they won’t be able to make the playoffs, they might as well trade Schmidt and get something in return for him. Teams could also be looking at some veterans to add to their roster such as Randy Winn, Steve Finley and Omar Vizquel. I think its time for them to rebuild.
VETS TO BOOT: Schmidt, Winn, Finley, Vizquel

Arizona Diamondbacks
5th Place 43-35 – 5 GB
Tied 5th Place Wild Card – 3 GB
Decision: BUYERS
This team is tough to decide on too. They don’t have enough hitting, but it’s not poor. They could always upgrade. But they can’t spend the money. Their main area in which they need to improve is their Starting Pitching, and too much of it. Even Brandon Webb isn’t enough to carry them to the playoffs. They can always go after Redman and Westbrook and even Livan, but there isn’t much out there, and a lot of the pitchers are expensive. I have a feeling they will either stay put or else start trading some of their veteran players like Luis Gonzalez and Shawn Green.
TARGET: Redman, Westbrook, Hernandez

There you have it, those are my theories in what each team should do now that the trading deadline is nearing. Most teams are still in it. 20 teams are 6 games or less behind in either their respective division or for the Wild Card. So do they give up? Or do they go for it all? Now that I gave my opinion, I’d like to hear yours.

Nets Playoff Recap...

I’ve wanted to keep a running diary of each Nets games during the playoffs, but I felt if I did something like that I would for one, jinx the Nets and two, would be copying something Bill Simmons, The Sports Guy, has done. But I need to talk about last night’s game and what has transpired over the course of the 1st round against the Indiana Pacers.

The win last night for the Nets was huge in terms of confidence and momentum. It seemed every time the Nets went on a 6-0, 7-0 or 8-0 run, the Pacers would come right back with their own mini run. And the Nets haven’t been able to shut down the Pacers. Even in Game 4, they were up double digits for the majority of the game, but they couldn’t close them out. But last night, even though the Pacers remained in the game and tied it up in the 4th, after being down double digits, the Nets did a fine job of staying calm and collected under pressure. Vince didn’t force any bad shots. Krstic hit free throws, RJ hit a key 3 and they made the crucial stops on the defensive end when they needed to be done. Well job done. And most importantly, they didn’t allow one player to beat them. Game 1 they allowed Anthony “Beatlejuice” Johnson beat them (with the help from Stephen Jackson), Game 3 Jermaine O’Neal controlled the game with his inside presence and staying out of foul trouble. Last night they were able to shut down almost everyone. They didn’t allow anyone on the Pacers to take control of the game for a long period of time. But here is a player-by-player analysis of those who have been playing significant roles/minutes for the Nets…

Kidd has stepped up his game in games 4 and 5. No, he hasn’t been scoring much, but they don’t need him to. Last night alone he dished out 15, yes that’s right, 15 assists. But all he has to do is keep feeding the ball to VC, RJ and Nenad. And then on the defensive end, he finally shut down Anthony Johnson, who had outplayed him for the first 3 games of the series, and can even argue Beatlejuice outplayed the more talented J-Kidd in Game 4. But it was nice to see him really step up the game significantly in this crucial Game 5.

VC also started to attack the rim rather than settling for bad shots from 15+ ft. Instead he is driving to the basket, making contact, and getting to the line. Let’s continue that and get Cry Baby O’Neal in foul trouble early in Game 6.

RJ is playing within himself. His defense is a little underrated but he has been so consistent on the offensive end. He makes his outside shots and has continued to drive to the basket. And on top of it, he is unselfish and just wants to do whatever needs to be done to win. He doesn’t call out anyone for calling plays for VC instead of himself (exception Game 1) even if he does have a hotter hand than Carter at that point in the game.

Jacque is underrated and can be argued he has done a better job than J out on the floor. He has had to come in and shut down Anthony Johnson, which he has done with his pressure defense. And on the offensive end he hasn’t really forced anything. He is just playing sound ball right now.

Jason Collins has played well defensively. He has tried his best to stay out of foul trouble, but it is tough to do so when you are going up against O’Neal. He has certainly played with a little passion and urgency than in the past.

Uncle Cliff has been the biggest disappointment. He hasn’t been making his shots and I feel as though his defense is a little overrated. But I do like his aggressiveness with a couple steals in games 2 and 5. And another thing, he has to learn to keep his cool. I don’t want to see him getting T’d up anymore.

Lamond Murray is playing a little much. He’s a liability on defense and isn’t consistent enough on the offensive end to be getting all these minutes. I understand why he’s in there when the Big guys are in foul trouble, but he doesn’t need to get this much P.T.

Nenad Krstic, all I can say is UNDERRATED. He doesn’t get any love from the national press. Yes, the local papers know how good he is, but on a national level the Nets are always referred to as the Big 3. I’m sorry, but they are the Big 4 now. Krstic showed his potential in the playoffs last year when they got swept by the Heat, but he was one of the few bright spots. And during their 14 game winning streak, he averaged a double/double. During this years playoffs, he is hitting his 15 ft. jump shot with consistency and confidence, can run down the floor on breaks, and he has been bringing down important offensive and defensive rebound. I get annoyed that no one is paying any respect to him. We are watching the making of a great player before our own eyes. Let’s pay him some attention.

The Nets have a lot of potential and can make a serious bid at the championship as long as they play cohesively on the defensive end and knocking down their layups (missed 14 layups in Game 1) on the fast break and start hitting the 3 a little more consistently. Just keep VC in check and have him attack the rim, Kidd dishing it off, RJ playing hard, Set Shot Willy (Collins) play D and crash the boards and Krstic as the ‘X’ factor, they will make noise, and hopefully, get some more recognition.

Double's 2006 Baseball Predictions

This is Christmas to me. The start of the 2006 baseball season. Is there anything better than this? I don’t think so. I have my annual predictions, and usually I am wrong, but I have a feeling this year is going to be a good one for me. Let me know what you think….

AL East
NY Yankees
Boston Red Sox
Baltimore Orioles
Toronto Blue Jays
Tampa Bay Devil Rays

Most Important Player: David Ortiz
If A-Rod goes down, the Torre can put Shef, Giambi or Matsui into the cleanup spot. Their lineup is so deep that they can stay afloat and still win their division. But if Ortiz goes down, that is taking out too much from their lineup. Yes they have Manny, but who will protect Manny? Ortiz means too much to that lineup. He is the 2nd most important hitter in MLB to their respective team, next to Pujols.

Most Important Pitcher: Roy Halladay
Halladay means so much to the Jays. If he goes down, the Jays have no shot at the AL East. Granted, I believe they are over-hyped and can fall behind the O’s for 3rd place in the East, but as Halladay goes, so do the Jays. They are already without A.J. Burnett to start the season. They can not go without Halladay for a long period of time.

Most Overrated Player: Vernon Wells

Most Underrated Player: Trot Nixon (when healthy)

Most Overrated Pitcher: A.J. Burnett

Most Underrated Pitcher: Daniel Cabrera

Best Lineup: New York Yankees

Best Starting Rotation: Tie: Yankees and Boston Red Sox

Best Bullpen: New York Yankees

Best Bench: New York Yankees

Best Manager: Joe Torre

Analysis: The New York Yankees should win this division pretty handedly as long as one of their top pitchers doesn’t suffer a major injury that keeps him out for an extended period of time. But even if that happens, their lineup is so strong and deep that it can carry them into October. Now, the playoffs are a different story. The Red Sox are depending on their rotation to win them most of their games. Yes their lineup is still lethal, but they can break down at any time physically and mentally (Manny), and they’d still be good offensively. But if either Schilling or Beckett go down for a long period of time, that will be costly, just like the Yankees rotation. No, I’m not saying Schilling will be the Schilling of old, because he won’t be, but he is still crucial for the Red Sox success. Orioles have a great lineup, but can Mazzone get the most of their rotation? Benson was a great acquisition that went under the radar, and Daniel Cabrera has the stuff to be great. Toronto I feel is over-hyped. Halladay is great, but the big question also is can A.J. Burnett actually stay healthy? He hasn’t been during his career. And then the D-Rays are young and should win around 70-75 games this year.


AL Central
Chicago White Sox
Cleveland Indians
Minnesota Twins
Detroit Tigers
Kansas City Royals

Most Important Player: Torii Hunter
He is incredible defensively and means a lot to them offensively. And his leadership can’t be measured. The Twins fell out of the race once he went down last year. They can’t allow a repeat of that happening.

Most Important Pitcher: Johan Santana
That was an easy pick. Santana is so good, but he needs to pitch like he did post-all star break last season, and not like he did prior to the break. He is hands down the best pitcher in baseball, and if he pitches like it, he can bring them to the post season.

Most Overrated Player: Maglio Ordonez

Most Underrated Player: Travis Hafner

Most Overrated Pitcher: C.C. Sabathia

Most Underrated Pitcher: Jeremy Bonderman

Best Lineup: Tie: Chicago White Sox and Cleveland Indians

Best Starting Rotation: Chicago White Sox

Best Bullpen: Chicago White Sox

Best Bench: Chicago White Sox

Best Manager: Eric Wedge

Analysis: Chicago will be challenged by the Indians and Minnesota for that AL Central crown. And even the Tigers will give them trouble and can be very competitive. But this division is the White Sox to lose. They have a great rotation and only got better with the addition of Javier Vazquez. But the key question will be, can Bobby Jenks close out games for an entire season. The Indians are a great young team once again, but how bad will they feel the loss of Coco Crisp. He was an integral part of that team with his defense and offense. Minnesota is going to rely on their starting pitching and bullpen to bring them to the playoffs, but their offense will rely on three key players: Torii Hunter, Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau. Detroit could possibly sneak up on people this year, but we’ve been saying that for the last 2 years. Good rotation though. And then there are the KC Royals. And there isn’t much to say about them but best of luck.


AL West
Oakland Athletics
Anaheim Angels
Texas Rangers
Seattle Mariners

Most Important Player: Vladimir Guerrero
He hasn’t had a healthy season for 3 years. His back can act up at any time, but even when he’s playing only at 70%, that is better than most players at 100%. He doesn’t have the speed like he used to and won’t be a 40/40 threat anymore, but he rarely strikes out and is so important to the success of the Angels.

Most Important Pitcher: Bartolo Colon
You could make a case for Rich Harden or Barry Zito, but the A’s are stocked with pitching. The Angels don’t have that luxury. The reigning Cy Young winner must stay healthy. The Angels offense isn’t as good as it has been in the past where it can carry them for the entire season. That is why they need Colon to come up big and stay healthy throughout the season.

Most Overrated Player: Darin Erstad

Most Underrated Player: Mark Ellis

Most Overrated Pitcher: Jeff Weaver

Most Underrated Pitcher: Joe Blanton

Best Lineup: Texas Rangers

Best Starting Rotation: Oakland Athletics

Best Bullpen: Oakland Athletics

Best Bench: Tie: Anaheim Angels and Oakland Athletics

Best Manager: Mike Soscia

Analysis: Many people are expecting Oakland to have a huge year and make a run for the championship. I am biased, but I 100% believe they can win the World Series based solely on their pitching staff. It is that good. If Harden stays healthy and Zito pitches consistently during the whole year they can win games and hold opponents to under 3 runs/game. The Rangers are excellent offensively, but their pitching staff is mediocre at best. The sleeper could be the Seattle Mariners. No one is expecting much from them, but Beltre seems like he’s primed to have a comeback year and their lineup is very good.


NL East
Atlanta Braves
New York Mets
Philadelphia Phillies
Washington Nationals
Florida Marlins

Most Important Player: Ryan Howard
He has high expectations this season after having a great season a year ago. But the big question is can he play 162? He played full time from July 1 and was a tough out in September. But the question remains, will he make the adjustments to lefties?

Most Important Pitcher: Pedro Martinez
This is without question. He is the best pitcher in this division. No one is as good. But he isn’t 100% healthy. He has issues with his toe and his shoulder and his fastball is only topping 88 for the majority of his pitches. But he can battle through games and still win them. The Mets fate rests on his shoulders, no pun intended.

Most Underrated Player: Jose Guillen

Most Overrated Player: Pat Burrell

Most Underrated Pitcher: John Patterson

Most Overrated Pitcher: Jon Lieber

Best Lineup: NY Mets

Best Starting Rotation: Atlanta Braves (Washington Nationals Close 2nd)

Best Bullpen: Washington Nationals

Best Bench: New York Mets

Best Manager: Bobby Cox

Analysis: I can not pick against the Braves again this season. I have done it for the last 2 and have been wrong both times. They have won their division 14 years in a row. Bobby Cox knows how to manage his clubs with different personnel each year. But the big question mark is how well their pitchers fare without Leo Mazzone. The Mets lineup is strong up and down with speed and power. But Willie Randolph needs to have Wright bat in the 3 hole. If he doesn’t have Wright start the season in the 3, it is crucial that he makes that switch early in the season. But what makes the Mets so strong this season is the fact they have a legit closer. The Phillies are strong and have a great lineup and above average pitching. Washington may be able to compete and be a tough team, but they will eventually fade away. Florida is too young and it will be interesting to see how first year manager Joe Girardi handles the situation. But look for the Braves to win their 15th in a row.


NL Central
St. Louis Cardinals
Chicago Cubs
Milwaukee Brewers
Houston Astros
Cincinnati Reds
Pittsburgh Pirates

Most Important Player: Albert Pujols
By far the most important player to their respective team in all of baseball. No one comes close. You can take anyone else out of the Cardinals lineup, and Pujols will still carry them. Take Pujols out of the Cardinals lineup, and watch them plummet to obscurity. The best part about Pujols is his consistency. There wasn’t one month last year where Pujols hit under .300.

Most Important Pitcher: Ben Sheets
He’s been hit with injuries the last couple seasons, but he was hit hard last season. He is one of the top pitchers in all of baseball when healthy. This Brewers team is young but extremely talented And with Sheets in that rotation makes them one of the best rotations in the NL.

Most Underrated Player: Jason Bay

Most Overrated Player: Austin Kearns

Most Underrated Pitcher: Doug Davis

Most Overrated Pitcher: Bronson Arroyo

Best Lineup: St. Louis Cardinals

Best Starting Rotation: Milwaukee Brewers

Best Bullpen: Houston Astros

Best Bench: St. Louis Cardinals

Best Manager: Tony LaRussa

Analysis: St. Louis should run away with this division again. With Pujols, Rolen and Edmonds gives them such a strong lineup. Their starting rotation is solid once again, even with the loss of Morris, but their starting 5 is still excellent with Carp, Mulder, Suppan, Marquis and the addition of Sidney Ponson. And we all know that LaRussa loves his bullpen and uses is properly. The Cubs success, once again, relies on the health of Prior. But you can’t count on Prior staying healthy, as he has already been placed on the DL and the season hasn’t even begun. Milwaukee will be an exciting team, but just a little too young and too inexperienced to win the Central this year. But they will be good. Houston is missing a key ingredient, Roger Clemens. And I am not counting on him to come back. Yes, I do think he will, but since he’s not on the roster yet, I can not say that for sure he’ll be playing so that gives the Astros a huge disadvantage in their division. Cincinnati has a weak rotation and bullpen, but boy can they hit HRs. And as for the Pirates, they too are only a couple of years away from really competing. But they too, like the Brewers, will be fun to watch, and Jason Bay is by far the most underrated player in the NL and maybe all of baseball. Just like my Burger said before our fantasy draft last week “Wow, Jason Bay had a good year last year”.


NL West
San Diego Padres
San Francisco Giants
Los Angeles Dodgers
Arizona Diamondbacks
Colorado Rockies

Most Important Player: Barry Bonds
No question. When he’s healthy, he changes that team from a very good team to a mediocre team when he’s not in the lineup. He’s the Shaq of baseball.

Most Important Pitcher: 3-way Tie: Jake Peavy, Jason Schmidt and Brad Penny
All 3 of these pitchers are going to be relied upon to have great years. As long as all 3 have great years, so will their team.

Most Underrated Player: Tie: Moises Alou and Brian Giles

Most Overrated Player: Rafael Furcal

Most Underrated Pitcher: Brandon Webb

Most Overrated Pitcher: Derek Lowe

Best Lineup: San Francisco Giants

Best Starting Rotation: San Diego Padres

Best Bullpen: Tie: San Diego Padres and LA Dodgers

Best Bench: Arizona Diamondbacks

Best Manager: Bruce Bochy

Analysis: This is a mediocre division for the second straight year. No team is a clear cut favorite. Even the Diamondbacks can compete in this weak division. It will probably only take 88-90 wins to win the division. But I like the Padres rotation and the make up of their team. I do not think Bonds will stay healthy and play enough games for the Giants to win this year. LA is banking on their vets to carry the team, but they are also injury prone. Arizona is young, but have a lot of bats in that lineup and the Rockies are looking to hopefully play .500 ball. This is tough division to call, but I like the Padres to repeat.

AL East Champ: New York Yankees
AL Central Champ: Chicago White Sox
AL West Champ: Oakland A’s
AL Wild Card: Cleveland Indians

NL East Champ: Atlanta Braves
NL Central Champ: St. Louis Cardinals
NL West Champ: San Diego Padres
NL Wild Card: NY Mets


AL Pennant: Oakland A’s
NL Pennant: St. Louis Cardinals

World Series Champs: Oakland A’s in 7

AL MVP: Grady Sizemore
AL Cy Young: Rich Harden
AL Manager of the Year: Eric Wedge
AL ROY: Jonathan Papelbon

NL MVP: Albert Pujols
NL Cy Young: Jake Peavy
NL Manager of the Year: Ned Yost
NL ROY: Prince Fielder

Ramble On...

What a wild, wild, wild weekend in College Hoops, WBC, T.O. saga, NFL Free Agency, 24, The Gauntlet and a lot more that is on my mind…

I hope Derrik finally goes home on the Gauntlet. He is such a Mary. What, he thinks he’s so tough for breaking a table?

Alton is the Jim Thorpe of The Gauntlet…he does everything

Another thing about MTV and The Gauntlet --- These people that keep coming back, do they have actual jobs? I mean, are they going to live off these Inferno and Gauntlet programs for the rest of their lives? Take that old dude Mark for example, the one from the first Road Rules cast….he’ll be near his mid 40s in 10 years. How is he going to be able to keep doing these Physical Challenges (as in the words of Marc Summers)

Speaking of which (Double Dare), I bet my family would have taken the obstacle course in Double Dare at least 70% of the time. I think the most troubling part of the obstacle course was finding the flag in the extremely large PB&J.

24 is not living up to par this season. It was nice when they killed off Edgar, now all they need to do is kill of Chloe.

Onto sports….

Congrats to Japan for winning the WBC. I just wish that all the stars had participated in the event which includes but no limited to Hideki Matsui, Vlad, Pedro, Wagner, Hudson etc… Mike Francessa has a pretty good solution for the next WBC for which they cancel the All-Star game and play the WBC during a 10 day period for when the All-Star break would take place, and then cut the season down to 154 games (like the old days). Not a bad idea, but it won’t fly.

Alfonso Soriano needs to stop whining about playing in the outfield. You got traded to a team that already has a second baseman. You are going to make $10 mil this year, you play where they tell you to play. End of story. And then for yesterday’s spring training game, Soriano was penciled in Left Field. But when the Nats took the field, Soriano was no where to be found. If Soriano doesn’t report to the field by Thursday, Nats GM Jimmy Bowden has said he will put Soriano on the DQ List, which means he will be inactive and will not receive any pay. This won’t go over well next year when he becomes a Free Agent, that is, if he becomes a Free Agent, because in order for him to qualify, he needs to play in 93 games this season. Or else he’s stuck with the Nationals next season. So Alfonso, I have one piece of advice for you. You are not bigger than baseball. You are not bigger than the Washington Nationals organization. Get out on the field and do your job. Do what you are being paid to do.

I can’t believe Bud Selig is actually thinking about investigating into Bonds’ use of steroids from 99-2003. You can’t put a witch hunt onto Bonds. No, I do not like him and I, just like 90% of everyone else feels as though he took steroids. But you can’t just investigate Bonds. You need to investigate everyone else who are under the suspicion of tainting the records and taking performance enhancing drugs. And yes, it kills me to say, but that also includes Mark McGwire.

It is being rumored that the new big drug that the players will be taking this upcoming season will be Ritalin. They are testing for “greenies” this season, but won’t be testing for Ritalin. Players will do and take anything to keep them up and going and energized throughout the long baseball season. But hey, Manny will at least be able to make a few bucks on the side selling his stash.

A’s are looking good this year. They are filled with very good arms in the starting rotation (Zito, Harden, Haren, Blanton, Loaiza) and a very good pen and a bright, young, up and coming closer in Huston Street. If the A’s lineup can produce more in the beginning of the season, and get off to a good start unlike their wretched start a year ago, they should be able to clinch the very tough AL West. And don’t worry, I will have a column dedicated to just the baseball season.

I have my first fantasy baseball draft taking place tomorrow night. First two players that should be taken in the draft will be Pujols and A-Rod. After that you are looking at Ortiz, Vlad and Mark Teixeira. I really hope I end up with one of the top 5 picks. I will also have a column dedicated to fantasy baseball and how my drafts went.

T.O. signs with the Dallas Cowboys after the Cowboys released Keyshawn Johnson. I would have loved to of seen Keyshawn and T.O. play together. See some cat fights between the two, fighting over who doesn’t get enough love from Drew Bledsoe. But this could be a very good signing for the Cowboys as long as the Tuna can keep him in line. Should be interesting.

Culpepper was traded to the Dolphins last week. I agree that he is an upgrade at QB, but what makes everyone think that Culpepper makes the Dolphins instant contenders? He wasn’t very good last year with the Vikings. His knee can go at any time. I just don’t understand all the hype. Yes, he makes them better, but instant title contender? We’ll see.

Nets are on a 5 game winning streak. I don’t think there is a streakier team in the NBA than my beloved NJ Nets. Vince doesn’t show up for every game, and when he stinks up the joint with his atrocious shot selection, he then falls down and blames his back for giving out quicker than it takes Joe Paterno to forget where he’s at. Coach Frank needs to allow RJ to start taking big shots in big opportunities. He wants that responsibility, I think its time to give it to him.

Speaking of the Nets, I was at the game on Sunday, and my buddy Jimmy and I attended a Nets autograph session. But of course, as I called it, the Nets donated the 2 worst players to sign at this autograph session, Zoran Planinic and the new guy, whatever his name is (he literally can not speak English). But good thing they at least Chocolate Thunder Darryl Dawkins signing as well. As my buddy Jimmy stated “Chocolate Thunder couldn’t stop the boos, but he at least stopped a riot from breaking out”

Quick story on this autograph session. I loathe Zoran. Just 30 minutes earlier, I was leading a chorus of boos towards Zoran when he was in the game, and yelling at Larry to take him out and that we, the fans, wanted an explanation for why he was in the game and getting important minutes. (For the record, Zoran shot 2-7 from the field and 2-6 from the free-throw line.) Anyway, I brought a ball with me to get signed, hoping that even if the Big 3 weren’t signing, I was at least hoping for either Nenad, or Jacque Vaughan, or Uncle Cliff or even Scott Padgett. But I knew for some reason we’d get stuck with Zoran. But I was at least happy Chocolate Thunder was signing (like Jimmy said, no riot broke out). So Zoran is the first player to sign, but I didn’t want him to devalue the ball. So I passed over a booklet for him to sign. He looks at me, sees the ball, gives me a dirty look and refuses to smile or say anything to him. I think I offended him. I did the same thing with Nachsalkealkjfa Bomadjlkjt (I don’t remember his name. He just came over in a trade and has played maybe 2 minutes). But then there was Darryl Dawkins. 7’ tall wearing a purple suit. After asking my buddy Jimmy if he “got game”, I told him I wanted to take him, the Darryl Dawkins, in a 1-on-1 game, and that I would out rebound him and outscore him and claim victory over the former NBA star. He didn’t buy it, but instead cracked some jokes and took a picture. Good guy. He at least made it worth while to stand in that line for 30 minutes.

This is the greatest NCAA Tourney that I have been alive for. I can not think of another tourney that has produced more drama than this one taking place now. From Northwestern St. upsetting Iowa on a last second shot, to Bradley upsetting two heavy favorites in Kansas and Pittsburgh, George Mason’s run from beating Michigan St., UNC and Wichita St, now looking to knock off heavy favorite to win the National Championship, UCONN. What a story book tournament for that team. Georgetown has also been impressive, looking to knock off Florida. Just a ton of remarkable stories and games. Let’s hope it can continue.

Until next time….

NCAA Tourney...

Boy, do I question some of the teams that received at large bids over other teams. And I still don’t understand how the committee placed some teams with higher bids over other teams more deserving (i.e. #5 Nevada getting a better seed that #6 Michigan State and #6 WVU). That’s pretty much saying they believe Nevada is one of the top 20 teams in the nation. Well, there’s no reason to complain about it now (although, I do like to complain), but instead, the brackets are finalized, now it’s my time to pick the winners. But I will show my picks Wednesday. But before that, let’s go through this tourney Region by Region.

Atlanta

Overrated: Duke
If J.J. Reddick is off his game, who takes over the game? Who becomes the go-to-guy? Shelden Williams is a beat, but that is only on the boards and defensively. Offensively, there isn’t a consistent 2nd option, and that will pose problems in this difficult bracket.

Underrated: LSU
I would have said George Washington, but with an injured Pops they become just a mediocre teams. But LSU has the right players and big men to get them into next weekend with a potential matchup against Duke. If they can out-rebound Duke (primarily Williams) and keep them from second chance shots, LSU could upset Duke, who many believe is the favorite in this Region.

Spoiler: West Virginia
They’ve been here last year. They surprised everyone a year ago, but now they are getting props, but still are heavy underdogs heading into the 2nd round. If Gansey and Pittsnogle can catch fire consistently, they could beat Iowa and make a run for the Elite 8 and then to the Final 4.

Best Matchup: N.C. State/California
N.C. State had a very tough conference schedule, where Cal had an easier Pac-10 conference schedule. But this should be an interesting matchup. N.C. State will live and die by the 3. But they surprised many by making it the Sweet 16 last season, but that was also with Julius Hodge. It will be interesting to see them up against a very young Cal team.

Double’s Pick: Texas
Yes, I am biased. But I think this Texas team is built for the tournament. They have the pieces to win. 1) Rebounding – Aldridge, Buckman and P.J. Tucker dominate the boards. 2) Scorers – P.J. Tucker, Aldridge and the X factor, Kenton Paulino. 3) Defense – They are a tough and aggressive defensive team.
The keys though for them is Gibson not turning the ball over, Abraham making smart decisions off the bench and Aldridge/Tucker/Buckman staying out of foul trouble. This team can go deep in the tourney if they play smart, fundamental ball.


Oakland

Overrated: Gonzaga
They play in a weak WCC conference and were unable to close out games against some of their weaker opponents. Batista and Morrison have to be on their A game. But their lack of defense could still result in poor results against Xavier. And it could be an interesting matchup against Indiana with Killingsworth and Morrison.

Underrated: Arkansas
Ronnie Brewer is capable of carrying this team on his back as he helped late in the season and through the conference tourney, before bowing out to Florida 74-71. They’ve had impressive wins against at Florida, at Tennessee and at Alabama. If there starters can stay out of foul trouble and remain on the floor, they could become a tough out.

Spoiler: Arkansas
Read the above.

Best Matchup: Indiana/San Diego St
Indiana has been up and down all season. Marco Killingsworth has been a monster and has given Indiana some toughness. But he can’t do it alone. With White out for the season, that puts too much responsibility on Killingsworth. Can he carry them on his shoulders? SD St. has 3 players in double digit scoring (Brandon Heath, Marcus Slaughter and Mohamed Abukar). If Slaughter can battle with Killingsworth and get him in foul trouble, San Diego State has a good change of pulling off the upset.

Double’s Pick: Kansas
Yes they are a very young team, but they spread the ball around and don’t rely on just one player to carry the load. They are coming off an impressive win against Texas in the Big 12 championship and if they can carry that over, they have a very good chance of pulling off some upsets against possible opponents Pittsburgh and Memphis.


Washington D.C.:

Overrated: 3 Way Tie: UCONN, Kentucky, Tennessee
UCONN: They have the talent to win the tourney. But do they have the passion and drive and determination to do so? Josh Boone is one of the most overrated players. The problem with UCONN is they will have to settle for outside shooting throughout the tourney because they can’t count on Boone to be a dominant big man.
Kentucky: In the tourney based on their reputation. Yes, they played much better down the stretch, but still, too many bad losses and only 3 wins against top #25 teams during the season (WVU – beginning of year when WVU was playing horrible, Louisville – I could beat Louisville in a pick up game, Tennessee – end of season when Tennessee starting to show true colors)
Tennessee: They showed lots of promise until the end of the season when they had some really bad losses (Bama, Arkansas, Kentucky and South Carolina). Won 2 of their last 6 games against Florida – Not a huge win, and Vandy. They aren’t deserving of a #2 seed.

Underrated: Illinois
Yes, it’s questionable to say a #4 seed is underrated, but it seems as though no one is talking about Illinois. I think everyone forgets how good they really are. They have experience from a year ago and Dee Brown is playing exceptionally well. When he is on, they are tough to beat. And James Augustine has been a nice surprise to the front line. Illinois is tougher than most people think. Look for them to be a problem against UCONN.

Spoiler: Seton Hall
This is a tough bracket, but if the Hall can get past Wichita St. they could become a nuisance for Tennessee. If the Hall can find their mid-season form again they could become a dangerous team. They were 9-7 in the toughest conference in the nation and beat some really good teams (at Pitt, WVU, at NC State, at Syracuse). Watch out Tennessee.

Best Matchup: Kentucky/UAB
Kentucky has been very inconsistent throughout the season, but they can put points up on the board. But UAB’s Squeaky Johnson will do what he can to make sure that Rajon Rondo doesn’t allow Kentucky to get into a rhythm. That should be a great matchup to watch which should make it into a very good game.

Double’s Pick: UNC
They’ve impressed me all season. Young team that just continues to play hard and wins. The first matchup against Duke I thought they were going to get blown out due to them being a young team and not understanding the magnitude of that rivalry. But they hung in there the whole game and only lost by 4. Later, they beat Duke at Duke. A very impressive win. Tyler Hansbrough is the real deal and David Noel has provided leadership to this young team and does the little things. Look out D.C., UNC is looking to take it by storm.


Minneapolis:


Overrated: Nevada
The whole season Nick Fazekas was getting love around the country. Nevada was even ranked. But they didn’t impress me. Yes, they are on a 14 game winning streak, but that doesn’t impress me, since the majority of those wins were against weak teams. Too many times they couldn’t put teams away (like Gonzaga) when they should have allowing. If Fazekas is off, they don’t stand a chance.

Underrated: Georgetown
How is Georgetown a #7 seed? Beyond me. Yes, they have some bad losses (South Florida) but they also have impressive wins (Duke, Pitt, at Marquette). This is a team that can do some damage in the tourney, especially being in one of the weaker regions.

Spoiler: Georgetown
Ohio State will pose the biggest threat to Georgetown, but Georgetown can beat anyone in this region. If they can get past Ohio St., they have a great shot at beating what looks like Oklahoma or Florida in the Sweet 16 and advance on and possibly play Big East opponent Villanova or possibly BC. Georgetown has been tested. Playing in the Big East is a big advantage come tournament time. In order to survive the Big East, you have to play the best.

Best Matchup: Arizona/Wisconsin
I don’t know what to make of these two teams. One game they look like good teams, the next they look like they should have been headed to the N.I.T. But either way, this should be a good matchup. What I mean by that though is it should be a close game which makes for a good ending. What happens from the start till about the last 5 minutes could be ugly. But isn’t the fun of the NCAA first round purely based on last second buzzer beaters and upsets?

Double’s Pick: Villanova
Ever since Curtis Sumpter went down I became very skeptical of Nova. I didn’t think they could hang with the big boys without another true very good big man. But their 4 guard lineup has made it work. They are extremely tough to guard and they can rebound. Their bench has been playing well as of late which is a huge benefactor. Their biggest challenge will probably come from B.C., but B.C. is known to fall short in big games. Nova should have beaten UNC a year ago, but lost due to a traveling violation. I think this is their year to advance to the Final 4.