Yesterday, the D'backs became the D-bags, firing manager A.J. Hinch and GM Josh Byrnes, not too long after he had signed a lengthy contract extension.
Hinch is no household name, and the team has a record that looks worse than the Red Sox injury report these days. However, one has to wonder how these decisions come to be. Everything I've seen from Josh Byrnes over the past several seasons has been nothing but positive. Yes -- his team has struggled of late since a promising 2007 campaign -- but to let one of the best YOUNG, INTELLIGENT, general managers walk like that? They just did someone else a large favor.
A little background on Josh, he grew up under Theo Epstein's wing, helping construct the 2004 team as assistant general manager. He's very bright and believes fully in developing the farm system. Him and his assistant, Peter Woodfork, deserve a lot of credit for the Kevin Youkilis's and Clay Buchholz's of the world. They know how to construct both big league rosters and create a farm system.
Byrnes found talents like Justin Upton and even made big deals to get ace Dan Haren from Oakland for very little. His age is appealing and so is his mind; he'll make a very good general manager for somebody next year, and the results will be good.
Arizona raved about A.J. Hinch's scouting and baseball mind (former player). He was Byrnes' guy, but didn't have the experience to lead a lousy roster. Don't blame Byrnes on the roster; ownership there has been cheap and caused the GM to dismantle an outstanding D'Backs team that went to the NLCS just a few seasons ago.
Cleaning out Byrnes doesn't help. The guy replacing him, Jerry DiPoto, has gotten similar reviews of being a great scout (another former Sox scout). The same management and scouting is still in place; it's hard to understand what Arizona is trying to accomplish. In this case, if you don't want Byrnes running the team, then clean house -- because his crew is still very much in place.
JMO
Friday, July 2, 2010
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
The Class of 2010
With the upcoming free agency starting at midnight, the NBA prepares for all eyes to be on them. Where will LeBron, D-Wade, Amare and Chris, Pierce and Dirk, or even Ray Allen and Carlos Boozer, all end up?
You hear endless scenarios about players teaming up, package deals, and obnoxious "World-Wide-Wes" references, and the power of people like Pat Riley and the rich Russian sitting in Jersey.
It's hard to imagine such a hyped and awaited free agency period being a disappointment.
But it will be.
LeBron James' best options to win a championship are easy. He would have a great roster in Chicago, but having the "market me" mentality and the desire to separate himself from Jordan, he'll probably go elsewhere. The Clippers would have a nice starting five with James in southern California, but LeBron probably wouldn't want to go there, either. I've said it once and I'll say it again, I really think this guy is going to stay in Cleveland, probably on a short-term deal.
Wade is staying in Miami. It's not even close. There is no way Pat Riley lets D-Wade walk. They have the most money and they'll spend it on the one of the game's best players. Wade has the ability to go with LeBron shot-for-shot. We've seen this everytime they play each other; they aren't the same player by any means, but Wade can score with the best and has the heart of a lion on the court. South Florida remains lucky on this one.
Amare rumors are swirling today that he'll sign a contract extension in Phoenix. Good for him. They fell one game from going to the finals, under a coach that fits their style and system. It's an attractive place to play and Amare is clearly leaning toward staying on a good team instead of teaming up with others.
Chris Bosh doesn't seem to care about anything except putting his name in the spotlight with Wade and James. Cities don't seem to matter to him -- because Toronto is actually a fantastic city. If he wants to play with Wade, fine. If he wants to play with LeBron, go for it. He's a really great player, but he'll eat up a lot of money for a #2 super star. Someone is going to end up playing with LeBron, so it sounds like Bosh will be that guy.
Pierce and Dirk are more disappointments on the market. They're both going to stay in their home cities, Boston and Dallas, respectively. My personal wish would be that the Celtics would sign Dirk over Pierce, but the homers would probably have me killed.
The bottom line is that most of these players are going to stay where they belong. Joe Johnson and/or Carlos Boozer will probably take big contract offers from the desperate Knicks or Nets, but that's about it. I hope I'm wrong -- I hope these players go to different cities. But if Wade and LeBron (and even a 3rd star) were to team up, that would be really sad and unfortunate for the league. It would be unfortunate that those players could be so ignorant and dumb -- as that move would cost them millions of dollars and be harder on the court than people think. The Celtics won with the big 3 because they were championship-driven veterans -- the players have said themselves they would not have been able to win together at younger ages.
Ladies and gentlemen, congratulations to the class of 2010.
You hear endless scenarios about players teaming up, package deals, and obnoxious "World-Wide-Wes" references, and the power of people like Pat Riley and the rich Russian sitting in Jersey.
It's hard to imagine such a hyped and awaited free agency period being a disappointment.
But it will be.
LeBron James' best options to win a championship are easy. He would have a great roster in Chicago, but having the "market me" mentality and the desire to separate himself from Jordan, he'll probably go elsewhere. The Clippers would have a nice starting five with James in southern California, but LeBron probably wouldn't want to go there, either. I've said it once and I'll say it again, I really think this guy is going to stay in Cleveland, probably on a short-term deal.
Wade is staying in Miami. It's not even close. There is no way Pat Riley lets D-Wade walk. They have the most money and they'll spend it on the one of the game's best players. Wade has the ability to go with LeBron shot-for-shot. We've seen this everytime they play each other; they aren't the same player by any means, but Wade can score with the best and has the heart of a lion on the court. South Florida remains lucky on this one.
Amare rumors are swirling today that he'll sign a contract extension in Phoenix. Good for him. They fell one game from going to the finals, under a coach that fits their style and system. It's an attractive place to play and Amare is clearly leaning toward staying on a good team instead of teaming up with others.
Chris Bosh doesn't seem to care about anything except putting his name in the spotlight with Wade and James. Cities don't seem to matter to him -- because Toronto is actually a fantastic city. If he wants to play with Wade, fine. If he wants to play with LeBron, go for it. He's a really great player, but he'll eat up a lot of money for a #2 super star. Someone is going to end up playing with LeBron, so it sounds like Bosh will be that guy.
Pierce and Dirk are more disappointments on the market. They're both going to stay in their home cities, Boston and Dallas, respectively. My personal wish would be that the Celtics would sign Dirk over Pierce, but the homers would probably have me killed.
The bottom line is that most of these players are going to stay where they belong. Joe Johnson and/or Carlos Boozer will probably take big contract offers from the desperate Knicks or Nets, but that's about it. I hope I'm wrong -- I hope these players go to different cities. But if Wade and LeBron (and even a 3rd star) were to team up, that would be really sad and unfortunate for the league. It would be unfortunate that those players could be so ignorant and dumb -- as that move would cost them millions of dollars and be harder on the court than people think. The Celtics won with the big 3 because they were championship-driven veterans -- the players have said themselves they would not have been able to win together at younger ages.
Ladies and gentlemen, congratulations to the class of 2010.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
4 Major thoughts for the 4 Major teams
Taking you into the weekend, I've got four major thoughts on my mind about each of our big 4 teams, the Pats, Sox, B's, and C's. Tonight marks the beginning of an underrated sports weekend in Boston; the NBA draft is tonight with the NHL draft following tomorrow. The Sox open an exciting weekend series with the Giants in the Bay Area and the Pats continue to prep for upcoming training camp in July.
With that said...
Thought 1: The Mike Lowell situation is embarassing for everybody.
Period.
Mike Lowell is embarassing to watch. He's making an absolute selfish fool out of himself and I'm sick of looking at the sour puss face he's been sporting since opening day. Ever since he got the big ovation Easter night against New York for the opener, he has done nothing but frown ever since. It's likely Lowell took it to heart that Boston fans sympathize with his "situation," and he's felt sorry for himself since the fans seem to. Mike: get over it. You're going to moved sooner rather than later. You don't play in the lineup because you're useless in the field unless Youkilis and Beltre need days off (last I checked, they were our two best hitters this year). You can't hit anything but fastballs and you don't offer anything at the dish unless you're playing in Fenway.
Now, I love Mike Lowell to death. He was a great MVP and had a hell of a 2007. I respected him for the way he fought through 2008 with his busted hip. But this year has been embarassing for everybody. I sympathize that Theo most likely didn't want to re-sign him after 2007, probably assuming he'd take the 4-year offer from Philly. When Lowell re-signed here, Theo probably didn't jump with excitement. Nobody is winning here. Move the guy -- cut him if you have to. It's embarassing.
Thought 2: The Celtics should trade Perk if they can.
For all of you Celtics homers who love Perk to death and don't want to see the 'love him or hate him' big man go, it's time for a reality check. He's extremely one dimensional. Though he has gotten better over the past few years offensively, he is so challenged in that aspect of his game that Danny would be dumb NOT to look elsewhere. Perk not only lost his knee ligaments in LA, but he seemed to have lost his hands. Every pass Kendrick Perkins caught in the playoffs would hit the floor and roll away for a turnover. His technical fouls and willingness to complain may also be causing his welcome to be wearing down.
Perkins is an outstanding defender and has been an under-appreciated member for the starting five. But if Danny has a chance to get a more offensive minded big man in the draft, he should. It is pretty well known that Danny likes an offensive team and an offensive coach. That's why Tom Thibodeau left -- he'd never get a crack here if Doc left. If Ainge gets a more versatile big man or even front court help, he should do it. It doesn't help matters that Perkins may not contribute much next year. He's going to miss the first few months and as we've seen with Tony Allen, it takes time to come back from a torn ACL. I think Boston fans are familiar with those surgeries? I've seen enough of them.
Thought 3: The Bruins should be trusted right now
Ever since Cam Neely has taken over as President, it seems like the team's aggressive approach is finally showing. Peter Chiarelli pulled off a very good trade the other day (from what my hockey sources tell me), acquiring Nathan Horton (plenty of potential) for the lousy mangina that is Dennis Wideman. Neely is about to secure a franchise player tomorrow night, most likely Tyler Seguin. Bruins fans should be excited through the roof; there will be players that should excite every one in the stands to watch next fall. The thing to realize here: this isn't a Bruins team that stunk (1997?) and has a top pick. They're actually pretty good, and putting in a franchise player. God Bless.
Thought 4: The Patriots have nothing to worry about with Tom Brady
Tom Brady's contract negotiations seem to have Patriots fans checking their underwear for stains lately. Last I checked, Bill Belichick and Bob Kraft are pretty smart business men. That doesn't mean they overpay for guys, but doesn't mean they let Hall of Fame Quarterbacks in their prime go when there is no apprentice ready to take over the position. Do you actually think they're dumb enough to let Brady walk after this year? Do you really think he'll be sporting a San Francisco 49ers jersey, or a Vikings jersey?
They will get this deal done. They're being smart by letting Peyton Manning's situation iron itself out, along with Drew Brees. What do the 3 best QBs in football have in common? That's right. No contracts after next year. It'll work itself out. Bill Belichick is on the record calling Brady the best he's ever coached. That may seem a bit obvious, but why would he let that type of player go, especially when he knows Tommy 12 has carried his teams to three championships. Let the media and unqualified fans cry over it all of July; I'll be sitting on the beach knowing Brady will be here to stay.
Enjoy the weekend and thanks for reading as always.
JMO
With that said...
Thought 1: The Mike Lowell situation is embarassing for everybody.
Period.
Mike Lowell is embarassing to watch. He's making an absolute selfish fool out of himself and I'm sick of looking at the sour puss face he's been sporting since opening day. Ever since he got the big ovation Easter night against New York for the opener, he has done nothing but frown ever since. It's likely Lowell took it to heart that Boston fans sympathize with his "situation," and he's felt sorry for himself since the fans seem to. Mike: get over it. You're going to moved sooner rather than later. You don't play in the lineup because you're useless in the field unless Youkilis and Beltre need days off (last I checked, they were our two best hitters this year). You can't hit anything but fastballs and you don't offer anything at the dish unless you're playing in Fenway.
Now, I love Mike Lowell to death. He was a great MVP and had a hell of a 2007. I respected him for the way he fought through 2008 with his busted hip. But this year has been embarassing for everybody. I sympathize that Theo most likely didn't want to re-sign him after 2007, probably assuming he'd take the 4-year offer from Philly. When Lowell re-signed here, Theo probably didn't jump with excitement. Nobody is winning here. Move the guy -- cut him if you have to. It's embarassing.
Thought 2: The Celtics should trade Perk if they can.
For all of you Celtics homers who love Perk to death and don't want to see the 'love him or hate him' big man go, it's time for a reality check. He's extremely one dimensional. Though he has gotten better over the past few years offensively, he is so challenged in that aspect of his game that Danny would be dumb NOT to look elsewhere. Perk not only lost his knee ligaments in LA, but he seemed to have lost his hands. Every pass Kendrick Perkins caught in the playoffs would hit the floor and roll away for a turnover. His technical fouls and willingness to complain may also be causing his welcome to be wearing down.
Perkins is an outstanding defender and has been an under-appreciated member for the starting five. But if Danny has a chance to get a more offensive minded big man in the draft, he should. It is pretty well known that Danny likes an offensive team and an offensive coach. That's why Tom Thibodeau left -- he'd never get a crack here if Doc left. If Ainge gets a more versatile big man or even front court help, he should do it. It doesn't help matters that Perkins may not contribute much next year. He's going to miss the first few months and as we've seen with Tony Allen, it takes time to come back from a torn ACL. I think Boston fans are familiar with those surgeries? I've seen enough of them.
Thought 3: The Bruins should be trusted right now
Ever since Cam Neely has taken over as President, it seems like the team's aggressive approach is finally showing. Peter Chiarelli pulled off a very good trade the other day (from what my hockey sources tell me), acquiring Nathan Horton (plenty of potential) for the lousy mangina that is Dennis Wideman. Neely is about to secure a franchise player tomorrow night, most likely Tyler Seguin. Bruins fans should be excited through the roof; there will be players that should excite every one in the stands to watch next fall. The thing to realize here: this isn't a Bruins team that stunk (1997?) and has a top pick. They're actually pretty good, and putting in a franchise player. God Bless.
Thought 4: The Patriots have nothing to worry about with Tom Brady
Tom Brady's contract negotiations seem to have Patriots fans checking their underwear for stains lately. Last I checked, Bill Belichick and Bob Kraft are pretty smart business men. That doesn't mean they overpay for guys, but doesn't mean they let Hall of Fame Quarterbacks in their prime go when there is no apprentice ready to take over the position. Do you actually think they're dumb enough to let Brady walk after this year? Do you really think he'll be sporting a San Francisco 49ers jersey, or a Vikings jersey?
They will get this deal done. They're being smart by letting Peyton Manning's situation iron itself out, along with Drew Brees. What do the 3 best QBs in football have in common? That's right. No contracts after next year. It'll work itself out. Bill Belichick is on the record calling Brady the best he's ever coached. That may seem a bit obvious, but why would he let that type of player go, especially when he knows Tommy 12 has carried his teams to three championships. Let the media and unqualified fans cry over it all of July; I'll be sitting on the beach knowing Brady will be here to stay.
Enjoy the weekend and thanks for reading as always.
JMO
Friday, June 18, 2010
We keep moving forward
It wouldn't be necessary to start this column with a cliche-description on how Celtic fans feel today or how the team feels. Everyone's hurting this morning after last night's tough (understatement) loss and will be for the foreseeable future. There's so many questions about this team ahead and just as many questions looking into the past, going back to last night's game.
Somehow, some way, they just couldn't pull it out. Regardless of what happened, the Lakers do deserve credit for winning that series last night. I will in fact give them their due.
What is there to even say? I could write how much I dislike Kobe Bryant, Ron Artest's sudden clutch performance, Sasha icing the game at the line, or dirty Derek Fisher's big three-pointer. I won't. I also won't write about Ray Allen having another cold game, Kevin Garnett's wasted performance, or the lack of a clutch rebound or stop when they needed. If you expect me to touch upon the 13 point lead that was blown, I won't do that either. It was in the third quarter and leads in the NBA don't mean as much -- let ESPN make a big deal about it if they want, you know, if you can turn on the TV.
What I will say is this. I had a feeling last night during the 4th quarter I didn't like. The game was close, with the Celtics either up a point or two, or down a point or two. And then it hit me.
I didn't think they were going to win.
I consider myself to be optimistic and realistic about sports -- even my Boston teams. I can place my bias aside when necessary, and last night I did that. But I realized I had lost something I once had. From the years 2004-2008, I always had the gut feeling our teams would pull out the big wins when they needed to, and the usually did. The big losses started to pile up, however. The 2006 AFC championship to the Colts, the 2007 Super Bowl, 2008 Game 7 of the ALCS at Tampa, and then two brutal playoff perfomances by the Red Sox and Patriots last year in 2009. Though it was just two years ago the Celtics won the title, something last night didn't feel right to me.
We've been so blessed and so fortunate to have seen all of these titles in our short lives. And there's plenty more in our future, too. If we're all lucky enough to live another sixty years, you can bet we'll see plenty more championships in the city of Boston. When you go to the playoffs as much as Boston teams do, you're going to win a lot of championships, and you're going to lose a lot of championships. It's the way sports work. Celtics fans will be waking up in November, ready to rumble for the long haul of the season and for another title run. Nobody knows what the team will look like, but there's the hope that sports gives us that keeps us coming back for more.
I hope my confidence in my team's ability to win the big one comes back. I miss it -- and I need it. Though we all hurt today, we can be proud we got there, got to see it and be a part of it, and just do what we've always been doing. Keep moving forward.
JMO
Somehow, some way, they just couldn't pull it out. Regardless of what happened, the Lakers do deserve credit for winning that series last night. I will in fact give them their due.
What is there to even say? I could write how much I dislike Kobe Bryant, Ron Artest's sudden clutch performance, Sasha icing the game at the line, or dirty Derek Fisher's big three-pointer. I won't. I also won't write about Ray Allen having another cold game, Kevin Garnett's wasted performance, or the lack of a clutch rebound or stop when they needed. If you expect me to touch upon the 13 point lead that was blown, I won't do that either. It was in the third quarter and leads in the NBA don't mean as much -- let ESPN make a big deal about it if they want, you know, if you can turn on the TV.
What I will say is this. I had a feeling last night during the 4th quarter I didn't like. The game was close, with the Celtics either up a point or two, or down a point or two. And then it hit me.
I didn't think they were going to win.
I consider myself to be optimistic and realistic about sports -- even my Boston teams. I can place my bias aside when necessary, and last night I did that. But I realized I had lost something I once had. From the years 2004-2008, I always had the gut feeling our teams would pull out the big wins when they needed to, and the usually did. The big losses started to pile up, however. The 2006 AFC championship to the Colts, the 2007 Super Bowl, 2008 Game 7 of the ALCS at Tampa, and then two brutal playoff perfomances by the Red Sox and Patriots last year in 2009. Though it was just two years ago the Celtics won the title, something last night didn't feel right to me.
We've been so blessed and so fortunate to have seen all of these titles in our short lives. And there's plenty more in our future, too. If we're all lucky enough to live another sixty years, you can bet we'll see plenty more championships in the city of Boston. When you go to the playoffs as much as Boston teams do, you're going to win a lot of championships, and you're going to lose a lot of championships. It's the way sports work. Celtics fans will be waking up in November, ready to rumble for the long haul of the season and for another title run. Nobody knows what the team will look like, but there's the hope that sports gives us that keeps us coming back for more.
I hope my confidence in my team's ability to win the big one comes back. I miss it -- and I need it. Though we all hurt today, we can be proud we got there, got to see it and be a part of it, and just do what we've always been doing. Keep moving forward.
JMO
Thursday, June 17, 2010
I gotta feelin...
...That tonight's gonna be a Pierce night. If the Celtics are going to win the title tonight, they are going to need a huge performance from Paul Pierce. The last few years when the Celtics needed a win in a big game, it's been Pierce that has stepped up and become the best player on the court. He dominated in game 6 against Orlando. He was brilliant, scoring 41 points, in game 7 against Cleveland in 2008. And of course he was the Finals MVP against the Lakers in 2008. He's the only guy on our team who can create and hit big shots when it matters. Ray isn't afraid to take big shots, but he relies on teammates to create them for him. The Celtics will go as far as The Truth takes them tonight. And that's the absolute truth....Ruth
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Win it for...
With the Celtics on the precipice of a second title in three years, I can't help but be reminded of why I love following sports in the first place. I have been known to say that the only things that one needs in life are sports and a few people who love you. I love the competition, the spontaneity, the excitement of something unchoreographed unfolding before your eyes. I love how sports can prove that hard work does pay off, that intense dedication to perfecting one's craft makes the difference between the legends and the merely great. The world's greatest chess player has few interests outside of chess, likewise, no one worked harder at being a great basketball player than Michael Jordan. I love how sports spark constant arguments over who's better; I love how sports can always be analogous to other aspects of life. I love how rooting for a sports team can bring family, friends, and community together.
We've been so lucky to have great teams in Boston since 2001. The great lesson I learned when the Patriots won Super Bowl XXXVI was that a team working as a cohesive unit can overcome any individual greatness. That lesson has been reaffirmed time and again, as the Patriots won two more Super Bowls by working as a team and not caring who received the credit for their success. It was proven once again when the Celtics won the title in 2008, beating both Lebron and Kobe and the Kobettes in the process.
The 2010 Celtics are once again reminding us that basketball is a team game. They have beat 3 of the touted 4 best players in basketball and are in the process of dismantling the 4th. ESPN's John Hollinger ran an article today proving Kobe's statistical dominance in this finals, going as far to say that he should win Finals MVP even if (read when) the Lakers lose. The Celtics have no MVP for this series; no player has stood out above the rest. Read that again: no player has stood out above the rest.
It's possible this could be the last run for this current group of Celtics. It's possible next years' team could have a very different look. If this is the last run, what a gift this group can give us by proving once again that a great team will always beat a great individual. It's true that as one gets older, professional sports lose their magic a bit every year, as fans are bombarded with facts about players salaries and read columns by cranky columnists lamenting how selfish players have become. People learn that their favorite golfer is a liar and a womanizer, or that their favorite quarterback (or shooting guard) is a rapist.
So Celtics:
Win it for those who still think that sports offer the very best in entertainment.
Win it for those who have been suffocated by sensationalist and negative stories and have forgotten to breathe in all the great stories sports offer.
Win it for those who believe that teamwork trumps selfishness.
Win it for those who buy season tickets with money they don't have instead of getting tickets through their agents.
Win it for kids who would rather practice Rondo's passes than Kobe's fadaways.
Win it for me!
I'll see y'all at the parade. cue the duckboats!
-Aloy
We've been so lucky to have great teams in Boston since 2001. The great lesson I learned when the Patriots won Super Bowl XXXVI was that a team working as a cohesive unit can overcome any individual greatness. That lesson has been reaffirmed time and again, as the Patriots won two more Super Bowls by working as a team and not caring who received the credit for their success. It was proven once again when the Celtics won the title in 2008, beating both Lebron and Kobe and the Kobettes in the process.
The 2010 Celtics are once again reminding us that basketball is a team game. They have beat 3 of the touted 4 best players in basketball and are in the process of dismantling the 4th. ESPN's John Hollinger ran an article today proving Kobe's statistical dominance in this finals, going as far to say that he should win Finals MVP even if (read when) the Lakers lose. The Celtics have no MVP for this series; no player has stood out above the rest. Read that again: no player has stood out above the rest.
It's possible this could be the last run for this current group of Celtics. It's possible next years' team could have a very different look. If this is the last run, what a gift this group can give us by proving once again that a great team will always beat a great individual. It's true that as one gets older, professional sports lose their magic a bit every year, as fans are bombarded with facts about players salaries and read columns by cranky columnists lamenting how selfish players have become. People learn that their favorite golfer is a liar and a womanizer, or that their favorite quarterback (or shooting guard) is a rapist.
So Celtics:
Win it for those who still think that sports offer the very best in entertainment.
Win it for those who have been suffocated by sensationalist and negative stories and have forgotten to breathe in all the great stories sports offer.
Win it for those who believe that teamwork trumps selfishness.
Win it for those who buy season tickets with money they don't have instead of getting tickets through their agents.
Win it for kids who would rather practice Rondo's passes than Kobe's fadaways.
Win it for me!
I'll see y'all at the parade. cue the duckboats!
-Aloy
Friday, June 11, 2010
Diamond Notes
Tonight's Sox-Phillies match-up marks another good test for the Red Sox. They've played much better baseball since the beginning of May, and it's no surprise their starting pitching is responsible for the turn-around. A few numbers for you readers:
- Jon Lester is 7-2 with a 3.18 ERA
- Clay Buchholz is 8-4 with a 2.52 ERA
- John Lackey, Tim Wakefield, and Daisuke Matsuzaka have a combined 13 wins, which isn't bad considering Wake spent a month in the bullpen and Lackey/Dice-K have been up and down.
You have to wonder what position the Red Sox would be in had their starters been good early on and if Josh Beckett even contributed the least bit. More on him later. It's no secret the line up left doubts within the minds of fans everywhere, but it's hard to deny the following surprising facts. The Red Sox are:
- 2nd in MLB in runs scored
- 1st in hits
- 1st in doubles
- 2nd in home runs
- 1st in total bases
- 1st in RBI
- 5th in batting average
- 3rd in OBP
- 2nd in Slugging %
- 2nd in OPS
In the middle of June, the Red Sox are arguably the best offense in the major league baseball. A lot can change, but it's impressive considering that David Ortiz has struggled badly for the majority of the year, Victor Martinez had 5 RBI in April, Dustin Pedroia hasn't been himself, and the team hasn't had Jacoby Ellsbury or Mike Cameron play at all.
Going forward, you have to wonder how long the Red Sox can go with Bill Hall, Darnell McDonald, and Jeremy Hermida in the outfield regularly. They're going to get Jacoby Ellsbury back in two weeks, but it may be bold to count on him being himself the rest of the year. Mike Cameron needs surgery after the season, therefore he's not 100% either. It's time for Theo Epstein to get on the phone and look for a corner outfielder. Life would be easier if Tampa was in 3rd or 4th place and Carl Crawford were available, but who said life was easy? Some possibilities:
- Luke Scott (Baltimore)
- Andruw Jones (Chicago)
- Juan Pierre (Chicago)
- Austin Kearns (Cleveland)
- Milton Bradley (Seattle; proceed with caution)
Doesn't impress? What would make sense for the Red Sox is a hitter like Carlos Lee or Lance Berkman in Houston. Both are legitimate 3-4 hitters which the Red Sox lack. They haven't had great seasons deep in the heart of Texas, but a change to a contender may prove worthy. Either would fit nicely for Boston, bat 3rd or 4th in the order, play left field, and allow for Cameron and Ellsbury to take care of each other's injuries.
The Red Sox could always use another power arm in the bullpen, particularly from the left side. Billy Wagner was terrific in that role down the stretch last season, and you wonder if they'll look to make the same type of acquisition again. Matt Thornton in Chicago would be someone appealing should the White Sox continue to slip. Kenny Williams is quickly losing patience as his team sits 8.5 back in a winnable division.
Some quick thoughts:
- Adrian Beltre has been everything the Red Sox could have hoped for and more. Though the error column isn't pretty, he makes great plays on a nightly basis and his bat has carried them. He's in the top 5 in RBI in the AL, and his home run stroke has been consistent for two weeks now.
- Josh Beckett is still a good two or three weeks away from returning, but this team needs him if they're going to continue to climb the standings. Tampa and New York have better rotations as it stands, and it's going to take a healthy AND effective Josh Beckett to propel this team forward. Beckett has to give the Red Sox consistency and leadership behind Lester.
- If the playoffs started today and the Red Sox somehow made it in, you'd think Lester would start game 1 for the 3rd consecutive year, followed by Buchholz and Lackey. Interesting.
- Speaking of Lackey, watching him pitch Sunday at Baltimore, you see what a competitor he is. He works hard and battles, and give me a guy like that on the mound every time.
- Whispers about Pedroia getting a free pass during his current slump are uncalled for. He hasn't slumped since he started the 2007 season (rookie of the year anyone?) . He was due to struggle a bit at some point, as all good hitters do. He'll come out of it -- he's too good and is a little banged up. Expect a hot July for Peedy.
- When Ellsbury returns, he's got a lot to prove. Though reports about a new injured rib have surfaced, one might wonder whether it's spin to get the media off his back. It wouldn't be the first time the team has done that, but Ellsbury needs to prove to be tougher when he returns. The way to do that? Production, production, production. If he can come back, get on base, and continue to get better as a hitter, this line up can only improve.
- Looking ahead to the trade dealine may be premature right now, but Prince Fielder, Carlos Lee, Lance Berkman (see above) all make sense. If Josh Beckett is hurt and/or ineffective, Cliff Lee wouldn't exactly be a bad idea. He is a free agent after this year and wouldn't be the worst rental, considering the Yankees will probably get him in July or December when he's free. Sometimes it's smart to prevent your enemies from gathering more ammo, and in this case, everyone would win. Doubt it will happen, but something to look for. The Sox have asked about Lee in the past, as recently as last year.
- Darnell McDonald isn't getting the playing time he was in May, but it's clear that this kid (age 31) can play. He's got decent speed and can play all three outfield positions, and handles fast balls very well. At the very least, he's proven he deserves to permanently be on someone's 25-man roster next year.
That's it for diamond notes today, but thanks for reading and please give some feedback below.
JMO
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Goals for Game 4
Just some quick thoughts from a less formal blog tonight. As frustrating as game 3 was for Celtics fans, it's pretty safe to say that tonight's game is a must-win. If they Celtics were to lose this game, winning 3 straight is too tough a task against a good Laker team, especially with two of those being in LA-LA-Land. Here are a few quick thoughts about tonight's Celtic goals needed to win:
- Get really good games from 2 of the "Big 3." Simply put, when the Celtics only get a good game from one of Allen, Pierce, and Garnett, the chances of winning aren't good. Pierce lovers can't hide behind this one -- he's really underperformed and the excuses are exhausting at this point. He's the captain and these are the finals, so he needs to have a really good game here on out. Garnett's big game 3 could have been fluke, and you wonder how many of those he has in him. Hopefully, Allen has amnesia and comes out shooting like a college beruit player and sinks some big buckets. Combine a good game from 2 of the "big 3" should really help the Celtics chances.
- Stop tipping up the basketball and jump to get the rebound instead. Everyone knows Bynum and Gasol's length are a thorn in the Celtics' side, but it wouldn't kill Perkins to play up to par and for Garnett to jump off the ground. Rebounding is about boxing out and getting in good position, not just how high you can jump, but the Celtics too many times have stood there and just tipped the ball up to whoever is in the area. The point here: the Lakers are too underneath to not rebound better. Perkins is the big target here -- they need big boards from the big men to prevent paint points from Paul and Bynum. Effort is key here: do the little things.
- Get Rondo to drive to the basket. He made it look easy in game 2 in LA, and he is fast enough to scorch Fisher and Bryant to get to the hoop. If Rondo goes to the hoop, it creates more shots for Ray Allen outside -- it will make defenders back off a bit from that 3-point line and follow Rajon to the hoop. No one ever said it was a bad thing for Kobe to have to play chase, and to make Phil Jackson think a little harder.
- Hit your free throws. Pretty simple concept, yet game 3 you would have thought the Celtics didn't even practice that part of their game. If the refs are calling everything -- and trust me, they are -- you are going to get to the line. It's free points, so they better hit them. You have to wonder what the outcome would have been if the Celtics hit their free throws. Much different game.
- Get Allen involved, and involved early. Too many times, Allen is hot and then passes stop going his way. Everyone knows his performance two nights ago was bad, but they need this guy if they're going to win. Feed him the ball often and early. The only way to come out of a funk -- if you want to call one game that -- is to keep shooting. Get Ray going early and the game might be a little easier.
- Allow Kobe to take twenty-nine shots again. If he's taking this many shots, it means good things underneath. It means Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum (if he plays) aren't getting looks. Then again, just make sure he doesn't sink the majority of those twenty-nine.
- Stop whining and just play. We all know Eddie F. Rush is one of the policemen working tonight's game, but the focus on officials isn't going to get it done. Just play ball and don't worry about the rest. It will take care of itself as long as the C's keep their mouths shut.
- Get a big game from a bench player. Whether it's Nate Robinson, Rasheed Wallace, Big Baby, or Tony Allen on defense, the C's need a big game from one of those guys. No one mentioned it, but I thought T.A. played a great game on D off the bench tuesday night. Hopefully we get more of the same. I thought Baby was big offensively in game 2, but Doc needed some rebounds down the stretch there. You wonder if he'll give Baby the hook next time for Perk if the situation is similar.
- Relax. Play intense from start to finish and don't take your foot off the pedal, but play relaxed and smooth. Don't chuck dumb passed across the court or take bad shots. Don't wait until four seconds left on the shot clock -- set yourself up for success.
Expect to be 2-2 after tonight. Hope everyone enjoys the game.
JMO
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Still fucking pissed about last night's game
So you can blame the refs, and yes, Danny Crawford and Bill Kennedy suck at their jobs and hate the Celtics. Bill allegedly hates us because Doc Rivers questioned his sexuality (according to Tim Donaghy everyone knows he's gay...so maybe he sucked a cock, HE'S MY BEST EARNER). There is no doubt the NBA should have its best 3 refs referee the finals. That would make WAYYYY too much sense. I realize professional basketball is ridiculously difficult to officiate, but it just doesn't make much sense not to have your absolute best referees officiate the absolute biggest games. HAVING SAID THAT, the refs didn't make Ray shoot 0 for 13 from the floor. On no level did the Celtics deserve to win that game; they simply couldn't hit enough shots. Oh well, it sucks. Gotta take the next 2. At least we talked to Sports Guy for a second before the game.
So anyway, Wood and I went to the game last night. We were in the second row of the corner balcony. So come the end of the third quarter (the last minute or so) the Celtics are making a run and we're standing (it is a sporting event, you stand in big moments.) Anyway, all the faggy pink hat fans who have never been to a Celtics game in their lives behind us yell at us to sit down. Like seriously, what the fuck? If you want to fucking sit go to the symphony, this is a finals game. I've been to a shitload of big games in my life, and that's what you do, you stand in big moments. Anyway these fucking losers were yelling at us and just being a bunch of whiney losers. Some people don't deserve to go to a finals game.
Alright, well none of that rant made a lot of sense. Maybe next time my thoughts will be coherent and less profane.
-Aloy
So anyway, Wood and I went to the game last night. We were in the second row of the corner balcony. So come the end of the third quarter (the last minute or so) the Celtics are making a run and we're standing (it is a sporting event, you stand in big moments.) Anyway, all the faggy pink hat fans who have never been to a Celtics game in their lives behind us yell at us to sit down. Like seriously, what the fuck? If you want to fucking sit go to the symphony, this is a finals game. I've been to a shitload of big games in my life, and that's what you do, you stand in big moments. Anyway these fucking losers were yelling at us and just being a bunch of whiney losers. Some people don't deserve to go to a finals game.
Alright, well none of that rant made a lot of sense. Maybe next time my thoughts will be coherent and less profane.
-Aloy
The NBA... where YIKES happens
Yes, it's frustrating the Celtics fell to the Lakers in game 3 tonight. Yes, it's frustrating Ray Allen didn't hit a single field goal (where was Adam Varitek to split the uprights when you needed him?). Yes, it's frustrating Rondo stopped going to the hoop, the team wasted a great offensive night from Garnett, that Kobe went off, that Fisher was the one who iced the game of all people, that Bill Kennedy was allowed to continue to punish Doc Rivers, that the Celtics had a hot start get ruined by a 15-point deficit, only to come within one point and still lose.
But that's not what was most frustrating tonight.
How can the NBA think that this type of basketball is entertaining? How!? This isn't a complaint the officials are doing a bad job; that's already been established -- they are not good at what they do. Come up with whatever reason you want for that -- it is irrelevant. It is a complaint that the rules of the NBA combined with the officials executing them is absolutely horrific for fans to watch. Period.
It's not fun or entertaining and that can't be argued.
Look, basketball is a great sport and the finals typically don't make great series. Usually the two teams are a bit distant from one another on skill levels in a league all about match ups. However, when the league rules in today's age police the players to constantly be called for fouls, there's lots of negatives for everyone. Michael Jordan would average over 40 points per game if he played in this age where the slightest contact calls for fouls.
Hello? Think, McFly. These are the finals. The Lakers and Celtics hate each other. They're hustling more than ever, fighting harder than ever for every loose ball, rebound -- you name it. There's going to be contact and there's going to be physicality. But the rules take that away from the game.
All you see are fouls called left and right. Ray Allen couldn't play in game one, deservedly or not. Kobe Bryant couldn't play in the fourth quarter in game two, deservedly or not. Paul Pierce had to change the way he played tonight, deservedly or not. It isn't about the officials making bad calls, it is the fact that they have to make so many calls, as dictated by the rules.
There's no flow to this game. There's no rhythm. Fun, entertaining basketball consists of an upbeat tempo where fast guys like Rajon Rondo should be watched sprinting up and down the court. But that beauty is interrupted by whistles over and over again.
Plain and simple: it just isn't fun to watch. People don't pay money to hear whistles. Let the boys play, especially on the big stage. Shake up those rules, forget the flops and the smallest contact calls. Change the rules the right way: call all of the travels that tradition calls for, how about that? Watching the NBA finals and this great rivalry, just let the boys play.
But that's not what was most frustrating tonight.
How can the NBA think that this type of basketball is entertaining? How!? This isn't a complaint the officials are doing a bad job; that's already been established -- they are not good at what they do. Come up with whatever reason you want for that -- it is irrelevant. It is a complaint that the rules of the NBA combined with the officials executing them is absolutely horrific for fans to watch. Period.
It's not fun or entertaining and that can't be argued.
Look, basketball is a great sport and the finals typically don't make great series. Usually the two teams are a bit distant from one another on skill levels in a league all about match ups. However, when the league rules in today's age police the players to constantly be called for fouls, there's lots of negatives for everyone. Michael Jordan would average over 40 points per game if he played in this age where the slightest contact calls for fouls.
Hello? Think, McFly. These are the finals. The Lakers and Celtics hate each other. They're hustling more than ever, fighting harder than ever for every loose ball, rebound -- you name it. There's going to be contact and there's going to be physicality. But the rules take that away from the game.
All you see are fouls called left and right. Ray Allen couldn't play in game one, deservedly or not. Kobe Bryant couldn't play in the fourth quarter in game two, deservedly or not. Paul Pierce had to change the way he played tonight, deservedly or not. It isn't about the officials making bad calls, it is the fact that they have to make so many calls, as dictated by the rules.
There's no flow to this game. There's no rhythm. Fun, entertaining basketball consists of an upbeat tempo where fast guys like Rajon Rondo should be watched sprinting up and down the court. But that beauty is interrupted by whistles over and over again.
Plain and simple: it just isn't fun to watch. People don't pay money to hear whistles. Let the boys play, especially on the big stage. Shake up those rules, forget the flops and the smallest contact calls. Change the rules the right way: call all of the travels that tradition calls for, how about that? Watching the NBA finals and this great rivalry, just let the boys play.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Wishing the best for Baltimore
Besides spending my weekend consuming bar food and cold beer, the Baltimore Orioles were a focus throughout my short vacation to Bird Land.
Yuck.
I must admit, I expected better of the Orioles this season than last. I thought they had a legitimate chance at finishing as high as third place this season. The lineup looked really promising: a star in the making in Adam Jones, a terrific hitter in Nick Markakis, future best catcher Matt Wieters, and promising leftfielder Nolan Reimold. On top of that, they went into the season with smart veteran acquisition Kevin Millwood to lead a young rotation of Brian Matusz and Chris Tillman. They signed Mike Gonzalez to close games after a solid season in Atlanta, and Miguel Tejada and Garrett Atkins to fill holes at the corners of the infield. They also had recently extended the contract of one of the league's best second basemen, Brian Roberts.
What the hell has gone wrong?
Manager Dave Trembley just didn't inspire everyone. The rotation underperformed. Atkins has been horrific, Tejada nothing to write home about. The bullpen has been a disaster to say the least, and that itself might be too kind of a statement. The ballpark is empty and the only fans around Camden Yards come from New York and Boston.
The team has Jake Arrieta, six feet four inches tall and 225 pounds of pure prospect. A strikeout pitcher, teamed up with Matusz and Tillman should give Baltimore a rotation to someday compete with Tampa's David Price, Jeff Neimann, and Wade Davis. If they all pan out, they could compete with the pitchers of New York and Boston.
But they have to get there first. Much like the Nationals having a bright future, Baltimore does too -- but they need to make other moves to help. Millwood was the right idea, but the Orioles must have more starting pitching depth. It is time to get the bullpen to a respectable level, and that means spending money. Peter Angelos has the cash to buy middle relievers and a closer, and definitely should agenda item number one this offseason. Though Tejada and Atkins sounded right in January, the Orioles need to make a big for Prince Fielder or Adrian Gonzalez in the upcoming seasons to put a presence next to Wieters, Markakis, and Jones, while solidifying the corner position. Adrian Beltre would make some sense this offseason for Baltimore too, perhaps, assuming he opts out of his $5 million player-option from Boston.
I wish nothing but the best for the Orioles. On top of a great ballpark and solid historical franchise years, the city deserves to be great again. The days of 1996 and 1997 are far behind. Cal Ripken's rumors of taking the team over would probably help tremendously, but to get better now, the Orioles must find a leader for this team. Get a manager who can guide young players, earn the respect of veterans, and recruit good veteran pitchers to help a young staff. Birdland should be cheerier in the future. I sure do hope so.
JMO
Yuck.
I must admit, I expected better of the Orioles this season than last. I thought they had a legitimate chance at finishing as high as third place this season. The lineup looked really promising: a star in the making in Adam Jones, a terrific hitter in Nick Markakis, future best catcher Matt Wieters, and promising leftfielder Nolan Reimold. On top of that, they went into the season with smart veteran acquisition Kevin Millwood to lead a young rotation of Brian Matusz and Chris Tillman. They signed Mike Gonzalez to close games after a solid season in Atlanta, and Miguel Tejada and Garrett Atkins to fill holes at the corners of the infield. They also had recently extended the contract of one of the league's best second basemen, Brian Roberts.
What the hell has gone wrong?
Manager Dave Trembley just didn't inspire everyone. The rotation underperformed. Atkins has been horrific, Tejada nothing to write home about. The bullpen has been a disaster to say the least, and that itself might be too kind of a statement. The ballpark is empty and the only fans around Camden Yards come from New York and Boston.
The team has Jake Arrieta, six feet four inches tall and 225 pounds of pure prospect. A strikeout pitcher, teamed up with Matusz and Tillman should give Baltimore a rotation to someday compete with Tampa's David Price, Jeff Neimann, and Wade Davis. If they all pan out, they could compete with the pitchers of New York and Boston.
But they have to get there first. Much like the Nationals having a bright future, Baltimore does too -- but they need to make other moves to help. Millwood was the right idea, but the Orioles must have more starting pitching depth. It is time to get the bullpen to a respectable level, and that means spending money. Peter Angelos has the cash to buy middle relievers and a closer, and definitely should agenda item number one this offseason. Though Tejada and Atkins sounded right in January, the Orioles need to make a big for Prince Fielder or Adrian Gonzalez in the upcoming seasons to put a presence next to Wieters, Markakis, and Jones, while solidifying the corner position. Adrian Beltre would make some sense this offseason for Baltimore too, perhaps, assuming he opts out of his $5 million player-option from Boston.
I wish nothing but the best for the Orioles. On top of a great ballpark and solid historical franchise years, the city deserves to be great again. The days of 1996 and 1997 are far behind. Cal Ripken's rumors of taking the team over would probably help tremendously, but to get better now, the Orioles must find a leader for this team. Get a manager who can guide young players, earn the respect of veterans, and recruit good veteran pitchers to help a young staff. Birdland should be cheerier in the future. I sure do hope so.
JMO
Strasburg shouldn't disappoint
For the first time, Stephen Strasburg will throw a major league pitch tonight against the Pittsburgh Pirates in Washington. Not many can remember this kind of hype for a baseball player making his debut, and nor should they.
Strasburg has it all. He not only throws absolute gasoline from his cannon of an arm, but his curveball breaks knees like Furio from the Sopranos and his command is simply Maddux-esque. Though the Nationals are limiting him to under 100 pitches for his first start, the ballpark should be filled with buzz for the first time in the franchise's short history.
It has been a long road for the Nationals since their move from Montreal. There's no Vlad Guerrero or Pedro Martinez, Larry Walker or a young Randy Johnson. Moises Alou hasn't been heard from and Carl Pavano just never worked out. Switching countries and jerseys, the Nationals (or former Expos) now have something to be proud of. They already have arguably one of the game's best pitchers, and he doesn't even exist in the stat books yet. And not too far down the road, they'll have one of the game's best hitters, after selecting outfielder Bryce Harper with the first overall pick.
Baseball buzz certainly exists in the District of Columbia right now, with more to follow. The Nats signed some decent free agents in the offseason, such as successful closer Matt Capps, solid second baseman Adam Kennedy, and right-hander Jason Marquis. Former Yankee Ace Chien-Ming Wang will join the rotation at some point, and if he can give them anything between that day and 2011, the Nats may be able to fill the seats some more.
With the future beginning to brighten in DC, baseball is a better place. Teams like the Nationals and the former Rays (then Devil) improving is great for the game and easy for fans to like. People root for cellar-dwellers to improve and grow. And they should. Tonight, Strasburg makes the game of baseball that much better. Though the countdown on the ESPN ticker may be too much, and though the unlimited coverage may put you to sleep after a few hours, it can be a best bet that people will be wondering, "how did that phenom do last night?"
JMO
Strasburg has it all. He not only throws absolute gasoline from his cannon of an arm, but his curveball breaks knees like Furio from the Sopranos and his command is simply Maddux-esque. Though the Nationals are limiting him to under 100 pitches for his first start, the ballpark should be filled with buzz for the first time in the franchise's short history.
It has been a long road for the Nationals since their move from Montreal. There's no Vlad Guerrero or Pedro Martinez, Larry Walker or a young Randy Johnson. Moises Alou hasn't been heard from and Carl Pavano just never worked out. Switching countries and jerseys, the Nationals (or former Expos) now have something to be proud of. They already have arguably one of the game's best pitchers, and he doesn't even exist in the stat books yet. And not too far down the road, they'll have one of the game's best hitters, after selecting outfielder Bryce Harper with the first overall pick.
Baseball buzz certainly exists in the District of Columbia right now, with more to follow. The Nats signed some decent free agents in the offseason, such as successful closer Matt Capps, solid second baseman Adam Kennedy, and right-hander Jason Marquis. Former Yankee Ace Chien-Ming Wang will join the rotation at some point, and if he can give them anything between that day and 2011, the Nats may be able to fill the seats some more.
With the future beginning to brighten in DC, baseball is a better place. Teams like the Nationals and the former Rays (then Devil) improving is great for the game and easy for fans to like. People root for cellar-dwellers to improve and grow. And they should. Tonight, Strasburg makes the game of baseball that much better. Though the countdown on the ESPN ticker may be too much, and though the unlimited coverage may put you to sleep after a few hours, it can be a best bet that people will be wondering, "how did that phenom do last night?"
JMO
Friday, June 4, 2010
Too early to hit the panic button
That game last night was atrocious, boring, and frustrating. As it was happening I kept thinking "I've been waiting all week for this?" The Celtics didn't belong on the same court as the Lakers. Kevin Garnett looked like a shadow of his former self, missing shots inside and looking slow on defense. Paul Pierce put up the least effective 24 and 9 I have ever seen. Perk was quiet inside and couldn't control the glass. Our bench did nothing. No one could hit a shot. We hit ONE three! Rajon Rondo didn't control the flow of the game. Speaking of Flo, apparently the refs decided her son wouldn't be allowed to suit up for game 1.
The game wasn't about any of that though. It was about Pau Gasol's total evisceration of this Celtics team. He had Kevin Garnett for breakfast, lunch, dinner, 4th meal, coffee, and dessert. He was the best player on the court for much of the game. He had 14 total rebounds and EIGHT offensive rebounds! I'm not even gonna look up how many blocks he had because it was embarrassing. We're going to have to find a way to contain Pau if we want to win this series.
Having said that, it's much too early to panic. Pau will be hard pressed to replicate tonight's effort 3 more times this series. I have a feeling we'll hit more than one 3 a game. Ray won't spend the whole series in foul trouble. We'll get something off the bench, and we won't get killed on the boards. We've seen it a million times: A team gets destroyed in game one then bounces back to take game 2. I'm sure we'll get bombarded with the stat that Phil Jackson coached teams are 8234925301123349576 and 0 when they win game one of a series. It's a pretty impressive stat, but it doesn't mean shit. This Celtics team believes it can win, and they'll show up ready to go for game 2 on Sunday.
If not, US-England is only 8 days away.....
-Aloy
The game wasn't about any of that though. It was about Pau Gasol's total evisceration of this Celtics team. He had Kevin Garnett for breakfast, lunch, dinner, 4th meal, coffee, and dessert. He was the best player on the court for much of the game. He had 14 total rebounds and EIGHT offensive rebounds! I'm not even gonna look up how many blocks he had because it was embarrassing. We're going to have to find a way to contain Pau if we want to win this series.
Having said that, it's much too early to panic. Pau will be hard pressed to replicate tonight's effort 3 more times this series. I have a feeling we'll hit more than one 3 a game. Ray won't spend the whole series in foul trouble. We'll get something off the bench, and we won't get killed on the boards. We've seen it a million times: A team gets destroyed in game one then bounces back to take game 2. I'm sure we'll get bombarded with the stat that Phil Jackson coached teams are 8234925301123349576 and 0 when they win game one of a series. It's a pretty impressive stat, but it doesn't mean shit. This Celtics team believes it can win, and they'll show up ready to go for game 2 on Sunday.
If not, US-England is only 8 days away.....
-Aloy
Thursday, June 3, 2010
In Detroit, Everybody loses
Disgrace. Shameful. Tragic. You name it, the word is being tossed around in Detroit tonight. Incase you missed it, Armando Galarraga was 8 2/3 innings into perfect, needing just one out. After Austin Jackson made a ridiculous web-gem of a grab, it seemed like fate.
Then hell broke loose.
Even when a pitcher is one out away from perfect or a no-no, you still wonder -- even until the last batter -- whether they'll do it or not. Curt Schilling lost it at 8 2/3. Tim Wakefield took one into the 9th against Tampa in 2001, and had four outs to go in April of 2009 at Oakland. Pedro also came close, twice.
When Galarrga induced Jason Donald's grounder in the hole, two thoughts came to mind: 1. is it going to get through the hole? 2. Get your rear-end over to the bag. That's when everyone lost.
Loser 1: Miguel Cabrera. Ideally, Miggy should have let that ball go to the second baseman. It was too far in the hole for him to go after it. A first baseman's rule is to not let the pitcher have to do as much fielding as possible, and in that situation, Miggy's lousy defensive reputation made sense considering his lack of quick reaction and thought. However, given the tight circumstances of the game, it's hard to blame him for being aggressive and wanting the ball -- when most don't in that situation. Who wants to make the mistake?
Loser 2: Armando Galarraga. Obvious loser, considering he not only lost the perfect game, but the no-hitter as well. He isn't anything special to brag about as a pitcher. He has average stuff, and on a night where his slider was very good and sharp, he was able to have a shot at history. It really is a shame this kid couldn't have gotten his moment, no matter how it happened. He should always know in his heart he did indeed pitch a perfect game. Actually, better. He's the first pitcher to throw a 28-out perfect game.
Loser 3: Umpire Jim Joyce. The real loser of them all, it's a real tragedy, more than anything else, that he will be take hit after hit. Written here a few days ago, umpires and officials have become parts of the game. Jim Joyce made a judgment call, and he was wrong. Yes -- any close play in that situation, give the pitcher the call. Yes -- Galarraga beat Donald by two steps, maybe even a pinch more. But Joyce called when he thought he saw and give him credit for having the guts to do so. It is scary how quickly people will turn on an umpire. He's an easy target and easy to blame. Even though he messed up and is at fault, he admirably accepted responsibility and personally apologized to Leyland and of course, Armando Galarraga. It'll be a real shame if this gets dragged out and turns into a high-school romance drama. Jim Joyce is human. Let's remember what matters most, here.
Loser 4: Everybody. On a night where one person could have been perfect, several ended up far from it. It goes to show that there truly is no such thing as perfection. It is an impossible milestone in all shades of sports for everyone to be perfect. Umpires, managers, players, and even fans -- cannot all click at the same time. Doesn't happen. Never will happen. Condolences to Galarraga for his unfortunate occurrence, but congratulations on a hell of a game.
JMO
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Embrace the Hatred
Pierce’s idea of a fun night is going clubbing and getting stabbed. Good times!
-Ted Green, L.A. Times
Most Celtics fans around the country spent their Memorial Day in outrage over the words written by the Times' Ted Green. Controversial and arrogant, Green’s words hit home to so many people that the Times removed that segment from its site.
Green was on The Planet Mikey show last night and half-apologized for writing that part, but did state that fans have to love the mutual hatred of the two cities and the passion of the fans.
Ted Green has been getting ripped for writing what he did, but he should be defended. Was using Pierce’s stabbing a fair way to take a shot at the player? No, absolutely not. But give Green a pat on the back for doing what most journalists shy away from: honest and passionate opinions that tell us how they really feel. Most teams and media outlets have so many business ties with each other that the team’s coverage is watered down and always positively framed.
Ted Green hates the Celtics and told us why. Good for him. Nobody has to agree with it if they don’t feel like it. Plenty of Celtics fans hate the Lakers. Does it mean Kobe rape jokes should be made? Should people talk about Artest’s insanity, or Odom’s lousy marriage choices? Not necessarily, but at least Green had the manhood and guts to write how he felt. The first amendment allows it, so let it be.
It is easy to see why Laker fans hate Pierce and the Celtics. For the same reasons people in Boston have bashed Dwayne Wade (the wheel chair, the flopping, getting all of the calls), people hate Pierce. People hate Pierce for the same reason Celtics fans hate Kobe: he’s really good. Hall of fame good.
It’s great for the game. The message from Green and other journalists with the jewels to say it: embrace the hatred, the jealousy, and the blood bath that is about to occur. Enjoy the rivalry – not too many exist anymore.
Green shouldn’t use Pierce’s stabbing as something to laugh about it, but he should be allowed to open up the flood gates.
JMO
-Ted Green, L.A. Times
Most Celtics fans around the country spent their Memorial Day in outrage over the words written by the Times' Ted Green. Controversial and arrogant, Green’s words hit home to so many people that the Times removed that segment from its site.
Green was on The Planet Mikey show last night and half-apologized for writing that part, but did state that fans have to love the mutual hatred of the two cities and the passion of the fans.
Ted Green has been getting ripped for writing what he did, but he should be defended. Was using Pierce’s stabbing a fair way to take a shot at the player? No, absolutely not. But give Green a pat on the back for doing what most journalists shy away from: honest and passionate opinions that tell us how they really feel. Most teams and media outlets have so many business ties with each other that the team’s coverage is watered down and always positively framed.
Ted Green hates the Celtics and told us why. Good for him. Nobody has to agree with it if they don’t feel like it. Plenty of Celtics fans hate the Lakers. Does it mean Kobe rape jokes should be made? Should people talk about Artest’s insanity, or Odom’s lousy marriage choices? Not necessarily, but at least Green had the manhood and guts to write how he felt. The first amendment allows it, so let it be.
It is easy to see why Laker fans hate Pierce and the Celtics. For the same reasons people in Boston have bashed Dwayne Wade (the wheel chair, the flopping, getting all of the calls), people hate Pierce. People hate Pierce for the same reason Celtics fans hate Kobe: he’s really good. Hall of fame good.
It’s great for the game. The message from Green and other journalists with the jewels to say it: embrace the hatred, the jealousy, and the blood bath that is about to occur. Enjoy the rivalry – not too many exist anymore.
Green shouldn’t use Pierce’s stabbing as something to laugh about it, but he should be allowed to open up the flood gates.
JMO
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Green Skies this morning
Paul Pierce's 31 points coupled with Nate Robinson's 13 off the bench led the Celtics to an impressive 96-84 victory over the Magic, advancing the Green to their second finals appearance in three years.
Doc Rivers was right. This starting five has NEVER lost a series. And they don't look like they're about to, either.
No matter who the Celtics play next thursday night, they have a great chance of becoming champions. Most fans want the Lakers, hoping for a chance of thrashing them for a second time in three years. David Stern and his entourage of execs want the Lakers, for obvious marketing purposes. TV and media outlets want the Lakers, in hopes of killer ratings and creating more NBA buzz.
But who do the Celtics want?
They should want the Lakers, and you can bet that they do. A second chance of beating them would be more than thrilling and satisfying -- it is what the Celtics do. Historically, this is the kind of series that makes sports so great. The Lakers are also defending champions. After the Celtics beat them in six games in 2008, the Lakers rebounded and took down Orlando last June to get Phil Jackson his tenth ring and Kobe Bryant his fourth.
Shaq, tell me how my ass tastes.
But the Lakers represent everything the Celtics aren't. They aren't physical and don't play the same blue collar style of basketball the Celtics do. Bynam's inability to stay on the court coupled with a weak bench add up to more reasons why the Celtics have a great chance against this Laker squad. The Suns could be a tougher matchup -- they are scrappy and quick -- the type of team that has given the Celtics problems throughout the regular season.
But the regular season is certainly a thing of the past. This Celtics team has clearly started a brand new season. This does not look like a team destined to lose. As they were chanting once again at the Garden last night: Beat L.A.
JMO
Doc Rivers was right. This starting five has NEVER lost a series. And they don't look like they're about to, either.
No matter who the Celtics play next thursday night, they have a great chance of becoming champions. Most fans want the Lakers, hoping for a chance of thrashing them for a second time in three years. David Stern and his entourage of execs want the Lakers, for obvious marketing purposes. TV and media outlets want the Lakers, in hopes of killer ratings and creating more NBA buzz.
But who do the Celtics want?
They should want the Lakers, and you can bet that they do. A second chance of beating them would be more than thrilling and satisfying -- it is what the Celtics do. Historically, this is the kind of series that makes sports so great. The Lakers are also defending champions. After the Celtics beat them in six games in 2008, the Lakers rebounded and took down Orlando last June to get Phil Jackson his tenth ring and Kobe Bryant his fourth.
Shaq, tell me how my ass tastes.
But the Lakers represent everything the Celtics aren't. They aren't physical and don't play the same blue collar style of basketball the Celtics do. Bynam's inability to stay on the court coupled with a weak bench add up to more reasons why the Celtics have a great chance against this Laker squad. The Suns could be a tougher matchup -- they are scrappy and quick -- the type of team that has given the Celtics problems throughout the regular season.
But the regular season is certainly a thing of the past. This Celtics team has clearly started a brand new season. This does not look like a team destined to lose. As they were chanting once again at the Garden last night: Beat L.A.
JMO
Friday, May 28, 2010
Don't Panic: These aren't your Bruins
It is almost humerous how Boston Bruins fans are quick to point to their own weaknesses and draw parellels to this year's Celtics team. The talk around most media outlets leading up to tonight's Celtics-Magic game 6 at the Garden has been about "choking" and I'm not talking about on your dinner. Yes, that's right. Choking the series away the same way the B's did just a few weeks ago: up 3-0 in the series, cruising forward, already looking ahead. The only problem: someone forget to tell everybody else that these Celtics aren't the Bruins.
Not even close.
Try to correlate the two teams all you want, but it doesn't fit. Go on, try it. All fans need to know are a few facts.
Fact one: the sports are completely different and so are the circumstances. David Krejci and Marco Sturm were both hurt, but the Celtics are just banged up. Big Baby Davis IS playing with his concussion, and I expect Rasheed Wallace to as well. It may sound overly simple and obvious, but hockey is played with a puck, basketball with a leather ball. They aren't related, and just because the Bruins choked, doesn't mean the Celtics will. There is no possible connection, no matter how hard you try. Who would have thought?
Fact two: these Celtics are veterans. A lot of Bruins players are less experienced when it comes to the playoffs. Sure, they have plenty of vets on the team (Chara, Recchi), but not the same kind as the Celtics. Zdeno Chara spent his locker room time calling the team nervous once the gag job was complete. Do you think the intense Kevin Garnett is turning to the guys next to him saying, "We're nervous. Please don't choke."
Didn't think so.
Fact three: Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Rajon Rondo, Ray Allen, and Kendrick Perkins (throw in Rasheed Wallace if you'd like) have all won championships. Oh, so did Glen Davis and Tony Allen, since they'll see significant minutes. It's unecessary to list the Bruins players who have won because the list is too short.
Fact four: these Celtics are hundreds (yes, hundreds) of times more mentally tough than the Bruins. Fans hear over and over again about how hockey players are so tough and physical. Their bodies may be stronger, but the inside of their heads? They lack the killer instinct that the C's have proven (yes, proven. Please see: June 2008). The Celtics proved their toughness by facing adversity all through 2008, almost losing the Hawks in the first round, beating LeBron and James Crew in seven, and then winning on the road in Detroit to get to the finals. If you didn't hear what happened against the Lakers, listen to the "Beat L.A." chants you'll hear on TV tonight. Not sold? This year, the Celtics were written off by everybody, with exception of Sean Grande. What did they do? Beat one of the game's best players (Wade) in a quick thrashing, beat the game's best (maybe ever) player in James, and won the first two games against Orlando on the road.
Guys, they don't even belong here.
But they sure do fit now that they are. These aren't the Bruins. The Celtics have every ability to win tonight. Maybe they are really banged up, but this is a home game and a group playing for what might be their last shot at a title. And if they were to lose tonight? So what? There's always another day and another chance. Scary or not to most Celtics fans, there's hope, no matter what happens tonight. That's something the Bruins didn't have and didn't give.
Beat L.A.
Beat L.A.
Beat L.A.
JMO
Not even close.
Try to correlate the two teams all you want, but it doesn't fit. Go on, try it. All fans need to know are a few facts.
Fact one: the sports are completely different and so are the circumstances. David Krejci and Marco Sturm were both hurt, but the Celtics are just banged up. Big Baby Davis IS playing with his concussion, and I expect Rasheed Wallace to as well. It may sound overly simple and obvious, but hockey is played with a puck, basketball with a leather ball. They aren't related, and just because the Bruins choked, doesn't mean the Celtics will. There is no possible connection, no matter how hard you try. Who would have thought?
Fact two: these Celtics are veterans. A lot of Bruins players are less experienced when it comes to the playoffs. Sure, they have plenty of vets on the team (Chara, Recchi), but not the same kind as the Celtics. Zdeno Chara spent his locker room time calling the team nervous once the gag job was complete. Do you think the intense Kevin Garnett is turning to the guys next to him saying, "We're nervous. Please don't choke."
Didn't think so.
Fact three: Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Rajon Rondo, Ray Allen, and Kendrick Perkins (throw in Rasheed Wallace if you'd like) have all won championships. Oh, so did Glen Davis and Tony Allen, since they'll see significant minutes. It's unecessary to list the Bruins players who have won because the list is too short.
Fact four: these Celtics are hundreds (yes, hundreds) of times more mentally tough than the Bruins. Fans hear over and over again about how hockey players are so tough and physical. Their bodies may be stronger, but the inside of their heads? They lack the killer instinct that the C's have proven (yes, proven. Please see: June 2008). The Celtics proved their toughness by facing adversity all through 2008, almost losing the Hawks in the first round, beating LeBron and James Crew in seven, and then winning on the road in Detroit to get to the finals. If you didn't hear what happened against the Lakers, listen to the "Beat L.A." chants you'll hear on TV tonight. Not sold? This year, the Celtics were written off by everybody, with exception of Sean Grande. What did they do? Beat one of the game's best players (Wade) in a quick thrashing, beat the game's best (maybe ever) player in James, and won the first two games against Orlando on the road.
Guys, they don't even belong here.
But they sure do fit now that they are. These aren't the Bruins. The Celtics have every ability to win tonight. Maybe they are really banged up, but this is a home game and a group playing for what might be their last shot at a title. And if they were to lose tonight? So what? There's always another day and another chance. Scary or not to most Celtics fans, there's hope, no matter what happens tonight. That's something the Bruins didn't have and didn't give.
Beat L.A.
Beat L.A.
Beat L.A.
JMO
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Officially awful: Officials making the story
Any anthropologist would quickly discover that our sports community hates officials, umpires, and referees. They dominate the airwaves of sports radio, create the buzz of blogs, and anger fans the point of no trust.
What happened in last night’s Celtics loss to the Magic was what most NBA theorists expected: the goon squad was sent in to make some awful calls against the road team and extend the series. This brings us to question one: Did the NBA send in Eddie F. Rush (no word yet if “F” stands for “fouls”) to sway the calls in favor of the Magic? We can never know for sure, but as Tim Donaghy told WEEI's Dennis and Callahan today (http://audio.weei.com/m/31376352/tim-donaghy-former-nba-ref.htm) this is exactly what the NBA does, sometimes discretely, sometimes not. The fact that the integrity of the game has to be questioned after last night’s brutal officiating performance speaks volumes.
In yesterday’s White Sox victory over the Indians, Chicago starter (and typically class-act) Mark Buehrle was ejected following his second balk of the game, not longer after manager Ozzie Guillen was given his own exit. Via Joe West, Chicago was swimming in a mess of bad umpiring. Whether Joe West got the balk calls right or wrong was not the issue. The issue at hand is that the umpire made the story of the game, not the players. Cue in Ozzie Guillen, "Sometimes he thinks [expletive] people pay to watch him [expletive] umpire.”
"He's the type of guy that wants to control the game. I deserve respect and the players here deserve respect here, too.
"When you tell the manager to get the [expletive] off the field, I don't think that's a good way to handle situations. I'll be waiting for my fine."
The casual fan doesn’t know Joe West, but he has a long history and reputation of being a terrible umpire. Many Red Sox fans remember his bitter complaining about Yankees-Sox games taking too long. West also came under scrutiny for poor umpiring during last year’s postseason. But all of that isn’t the issue here.
When the umpire, referee, or official makes the story instead of the game itself, it’s a disgrace to sports. Eddie F. Rush had no business or reason to make himself a part of NBA history last night. He single-handedly could have cost the Celtics the series by preventing Kendrick Perkins to play in game 6 Friday night. Many referees and umpires police the game with hostility and anger – waiting to hear words that tick them off and become quick to establish authority. It is like a cop looking for trouble because he is trigger-happy. These officials are killing the integrity of the game away because they are taking everything personally.
Question two: can it be fixed? Unknown. The NBA doesn’t admit it has an officiating problem, but they would truly have to be idiots not to see the issue in front of them. David Stern may or may not have blood on his hands, but this game is being murdered. Sports were meant to be played by the players and coached by the coaches. If it were as simple as wiping out all of the officials and starting fresh, then maybe the game would have a chance. But until then, here’s to enjoying twenty-four hours without hearing a whistle.
JMO
What happened in last night’s Celtics loss to the Magic was what most NBA theorists expected: the goon squad was sent in to make some awful calls against the road team and extend the series. This brings us to question one: Did the NBA send in Eddie F. Rush (no word yet if “F” stands for “fouls”) to sway the calls in favor of the Magic? We can never know for sure, but as Tim Donaghy told WEEI's Dennis and Callahan today (http://audio.weei.com/m/31376352/tim-donaghy-former-nba-ref.htm) this is exactly what the NBA does, sometimes discretely, sometimes not. The fact that the integrity of the game has to be questioned after last night’s brutal officiating performance speaks volumes.
In yesterday’s White Sox victory over the Indians, Chicago starter (and typically class-act) Mark Buehrle was ejected following his second balk of the game, not longer after manager Ozzie Guillen was given his own exit. Via Joe West, Chicago was swimming in a mess of bad umpiring. Whether Joe West got the balk calls right or wrong was not the issue. The issue at hand is that the umpire made the story of the game, not the players. Cue in Ozzie Guillen, "Sometimes he thinks [expletive] people pay to watch him [expletive] umpire.”
"He's the type of guy that wants to control the game. I deserve respect and the players here deserve respect here, too.
"When you tell the manager to get the [expletive] off the field, I don't think that's a good way to handle situations. I'll be waiting for my fine."
The casual fan doesn’t know Joe West, but he has a long history and reputation of being a terrible umpire. Many Red Sox fans remember his bitter complaining about Yankees-Sox games taking too long. West also came under scrutiny for poor umpiring during last year’s postseason. But all of that isn’t the issue here.
When the umpire, referee, or official makes the story instead of the game itself, it’s a disgrace to sports. Eddie F. Rush had no business or reason to make himself a part of NBA history last night. He single-handedly could have cost the Celtics the series by preventing Kendrick Perkins to play in game 6 Friday night. Many referees and umpires police the game with hostility and anger – waiting to hear words that tick them off and become quick to establish authority. It is like a cop looking for trouble because he is trigger-happy. These officials are killing the integrity of the game away because they are taking everything personally.
Question two: can it be fixed? Unknown. The NBA doesn’t admit it has an officiating problem, but they would truly have to be idiots not to see the issue in front of them. David Stern may or may not have blood on his hands, but this game is being murdered. Sports were meant to be played by the players and coached by the coaches. If it were as simple as wiping out all of the officials and starting fresh, then maybe the game would have a chance. But until then, here’s to enjoying twenty-four hours without hearing a whistle.
JMO
That game sucked last night, so let's talk Friday Night Lights
Decided to do a review of the latest FNL episode because enough has been said about the Celtics...
This season has been about people being taken out of their comfort zones and coming to the realization that maybe their past successes were a product of their environments rather than their individual talents. A quick rundown:
-Aloy
This season has been about people being taken out of their comfort zones and coming to the realization that maybe their past successes were a product of their environments rather than their individual talents. A quick rundown:
- Coach Taylor has found coaching isn't so easy when your program is undermanned and underfunded. His decision to forfeit at halftime of the first game was not a typical Eric Taylor move, and he's paying for it dearly as the season goes on. His challenges to his players continually fall on deaf ears, as players find it hard to be motivated by a man who quit on his team. (something that Manny DIDN'T do, by the way. If you would boo him when he returns to Fenway, you're a pawn to the Lucchino-controlled media and not a real fan. Get your fuckin facts before you boo a guy responsible for bringing us two World Series titles.)
- Mrs. Taylor is overmatched as principal of Dillon High (which is, I suppose, what happens when you promote a guidance counselor to principal for whatever reason). She has a heart of gold but lacks the experience needed to hold such a high profile position in a divided town.
- The recently graduated football players struggle to find purpose in their post high school football star lives. Riggins finds he's not cut out for college, but is he dedicated and reliable enough to find something worth doing? Sarazen is assigned an internship with a fuckin weird artist who essentially uses him as his bitch. Will he take a stand or will he continue to be Matt Sarazen the punching bag?
- Buddy Garrity's status as an elite booster for the Panthers has been marginalized. In this latest episode, he finally takes a stand. On to to the thoughts about episode 3:
- Sarazen's art teacher is so weird and such a bad actor. I don't buy the character at all, and the subplot might be my least favorite since I practically clawed my eyes out watching Street hang out with his loser wheelchair hick friend.
- When coach Taylor writes the check for his team's uniforms and then lies to his wife about it, it is a classic case of a good guy being afraid that the girl won't approve of his doing the right thing, so he does the wrong thing by lying to her about it. The real question though, is how he and his wife don't have $3000 in their checking account. He's a Texas high school football coach and she's a high school principal! They seem to live modestly. They live the good Christian life and don't blow all their money on booze or other temptations. They have 2 daughters, and Julie is still in high school. Where the fuck did all their money go? Am I supposed to believe their money management is that atrocious? They are both detail oriented people, and their is just no way they'd be in such financial dire straights. It doesn't make sense!
- Coach Taylor comes off as a hypocrite when he talks to his player about taking responsibility for his actions while at the same time lying to his wife about the check.
- Landry's little situation with his girl, who somehow knows everything there is about football and punting, is typical lame TV drama. Wayyyyy too good to be true that this girl he likes knows all about punting. C'mon now.
-Aloy
Check with us
Just wanted to give a shout to our readers to check back with us today. Aloy hopes to come out with a column more in depth on the Celtics loss. Check back in with us to read about the Sox hot streak and climb in the standings, and even some Patriots bits as well with OTAs going on.
Our podcast will be soon to come.
Thanks
The VPs
Our podcast will be soon to come.
Thanks
The VPs
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
YIKES
So I had a bunch of friends over for the game tonight...I guess the Celtics didn't get the invitation. That was as bad as it gets. They had no answer for Jameer Nelson and the pick and roll, Rashard Lewis rejoined us after a 4 game stay on the island, and the Celtics were outhustled all night. The reffing was atrocious and Perk's ejection was a crime. The league better rescind that technical so he isn't automatically suspended for game 6. The refs had rabbit ears; you would have thought Joe West was reffing this game. When's the last time you've seen two guys get concussions in an NBA game when they didn't run into each other? Everything that could go wrong for the Celtics did, but they're still up 3-2 and I fully expect them to take game 6. We just gotta calm ourselves down, get back into our game.....
-Aloy
-Aloy
Suns-Lakers
I watched most of the Suns-Lakers game last night. It was great to see the Lakers lose again while the Suns' bench went nuts in a very entertaining game. Some thoughts:
LA is shooting more 3's and getting to the line less. Their overall field goal % is down. They don't have a true point guard to attack the zone off the dribble. This series has suddenly got realllll interesting. Credit Alvin Gentry for making the switch to the zone. He is effectively saying "we would rather have you shoot open threes than (relatively) unbothered shots in the post. It will be interesting to see what the Lakers do to attack the zone in game 5.
-Aloy
- Have you ever seen an NBA team stick to a 2-3 zone for almost all of two games like the Suns have in this series? I can't remember seeing something like this in the NBA, where teams generally shoot too well for zones to be effective over long periods of time. Kobe and Phil both said that the problem wasn't with the offense, it's defense the Lakers must focus on. However, the stats show the Lakers' offense has been much less effective against the Suns' zone. Consider the following:
LA is shooting more 3's and getting to the line less. Their overall field goal % is down. They don't have a true point guard to attack the zone off the dribble. This series has suddenly got realllll interesting. Credit Alvin Gentry for making the switch to the zone. He is effectively saying "we would rather have you shoot open threes than (relatively) unbothered shots in the post. It will be interesting to see what the Lakers do to attack the zone in game 5.
- Speaking of Gentry, you gotta love how he stuck with the bench in the 4th quarter last night. They were getting it done, so he stuck with them until almost the 3 minute mark as they built a double digit lead.
- Andrew Bynum's lack of mobility is KILLING the Lakers right now. He can't get out to hedge on pick and rolls and get back to defend inside in time. He also isn't doing a good job helping against Amare. The Suns will continue to pick on him until he proves he can defend, and look for the Celtics to do the same if they match up in the finals.
- Has anyone else noticed how much Dan Majerle looks like James Caan in the Godfather era? I could easily see Majerle beating the shit out of Carlo or getting blown away at the tollbooth. Here's a picture of each.
- How much of a chump must Doug Collins feel like watching Phil Jackson win title after title? Jackson was Collins' assistant with the Bulls and took over when Collins was fired, going on to win 6 titles with the Bulls and 4 more with the Lakers. Collins has to feel that if he had been allowed to stick around another couple of years it would be Collins being considered one of the greatest coaches ever instead of doing TV commentary and coaching the Sixers next year.
- Is there a team that bitches about calls more than the Lakers? Kobe and Pau have never committed a foul in their lives.
-Aloy
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
In the Center of Run Prevention
Jacoby Ellsbury confirmed to reporters yesterday that he will be playing center field again, now on a permanent basis. No word from the team yet if this a result of increased UZR for Jacoby.
Why would the Red Sox decide out of nowhere that Ellsbury belongs in center field? Is it because Mike Cameron is off the DL? Could it be that Tito was tired of writing the same lineup card lately?
Pardon the sarcasm, but placing Ellsbury back in center field proves one thing, and one thing only: Ellsbury playing left field made absolutely no sense. Ellsbury was a prime candidate for a gold glove last year. He dazzled fans and those around baseball with his stellar speed and wide range in the heart of the outfield. Turn on any highlight reel, and Ellsbury was sure to be there, front and center.
Want on the field evidence that he didn't belong in left field? Ask Ellsbury how he enjoyed running into Adrian Beltre in Kansas City. Earlier in that same game, he almost collided with another Sox player. A center fielder has the authority to call anyone off -- whether it be an infielder or an outfielder -- the same goes for shortstop. Ellsbury simply did not look comfortable there, nor should he. He's a center fielder.
Don't buy into that? Take Mike Cameron, a center fielder since he broke into the league long ago. He's known for his great defense, but he's 37-years-old and hasn't won a gold glove since 2004. Ellsbury is getting better at the position, Cameron worse. Ellsbury is improving offensively, Cameron isn't. Mike Cameron would make a lot of sense at smaller dollars as a fourth outfielder.
Fans should be glad Ellsbury is back in center. The Red Sox are a better team with him there, and it opens up the possibility for the team to acquire a corner outfield bat -- which is easier to get than some other glaring positional needs. Interestingly, Ellsbury's move to center shows that Cameron afterall WAS a replacement for Jason Bay. Though the front office was quick to shy away from admittance, this was the worst kept secret next to Barry Bonds' steroid use.
Give the Sox credit. They made a mistake and are trying to fix it. One problem solved, more to come soon.
JMO
Why would the Red Sox decide out of nowhere that Ellsbury belongs in center field? Is it because Mike Cameron is off the DL? Could it be that Tito was tired of writing the same lineup card lately?
Pardon the sarcasm, but placing Ellsbury back in center field proves one thing, and one thing only: Ellsbury playing left field made absolutely no sense. Ellsbury was a prime candidate for a gold glove last year. He dazzled fans and those around baseball with his stellar speed and wide range in the heart of the outfield. Turn on any highlight reel, and Ellsbury was sure to be there, front and center.
Want on the field evidence that he didn't belong in left field? Ask Ellsbury how he enjoyed running into Adrian Beltre in Kansas City. Earlier in that same game, he almost collided with another Sox player. A center fielder has the authority to call anyone off -- whether it be an infielder or an outfielder -- the same goes for shortstop. Ellsbury simply did not look comfortable there, nor should he. He's a center fielder.
Don't buy into that? Take Mike Cameron, a center fielder since he broke into the league long ago. He's known for his great defense, but he's 37-years-old and hasn't won a gold glove since 2004. Ellsbury is getting better at the position, Cameron worse. Ellsbury is improving offensively, Cameron isn't. Mike Cameron would make a lot of sense at smaller dollars as a fourth outfielder.
Fans should be glad Ellsbury is back in center. The Red Sox are a better team with him there, and it opens up the possibility for the team to acquire a corner outfield bat -- which is easier to get than some other glaring positional needs. Interestingly, Ellsbury's move to center shows that Cameron afterall WAS a replacement for Jason Bay. Though the front office was quick to shy away from admittance, this was the worst kept secret next to Barry Bonds' steroid use.
Give the Sox credit. They made a mistake and are trying to fix it. One problem solved, more to come soon.
JMO
Nats should think twice on Oswalt
Roy Oswalt has had a great career; he's pitched in the World Series, helping a great Astros staff of Roger Clemens and Andy Pettitte in 2005 reach new heights for the franchise. Tired of losing ever since, Oswalt's agent recently told the team the star right hander wants to be dealt: to a contender.
In step the Nationals of Washington. Off to a surprisingly strong start, Washington currently finds themselves in the thick of things. Normally, teams in these situations tend to hold tight and wait longer before trying to add a piece. ESPN had reports that the Nationals are indeed interested in acquiring Oswalt.
Please don't.
Though a really good pitcher, Oswalt just isn't what he used to be. And not at these dollars, either. He's a budget clogger for the next couple seasons for a franchise that is still not close. The team of Oswalt and Stephen Strasburg does sound seductive, but the Nats shouldn't rush -- and more importantly -- force anything.
Strasburgh will be there soon enough. The Nats are finally having success with some younger players they've developed, with more to come (see Strasburg, Stephen and Storen, Drew). It would be a shame to give away some of their future pieces for a pricey veteran who probably can't offer them too much in the long-term. Mike Rizzo should stick to his plan and continue to improve, piece by piece.
Washington is successful this year because it has done what most bad teams don't do: buy smaller puzzle pieces in the offseason. They signed Adam Kennedy, Matt Capps, and Pudge Rodriguez. Though they don't put a fire in anybody's pants, they have helped Washington be competitive. Overtime, signings like those placed with good young talent tend to mean more victories. My advice to Washington: stick to your plan.
Now if Minnesota gave Rizzo a call...
JMO
In step the Nationals of Washington. Off to a surprisingly strong start, Washington currently finds themselves in the thick of things. Normally, teams in these situations tend to hold tight and wait longer before trying to add a piece. ESPN had reports that the Nationals are indeed interested in acquiring Oswalt.
Please don't.
Though a really good pitcher, Oswalt just isn't what he used to be. And not at these dollars, either. He's a budget clogger for the next couple seasons for a franchise that is still not close. The team of Oswalt and Stephen Strasburg does sound seductive, but the Nats shouldn't rush -- and more importantly -- force anything.
Strasburgh will be there soon enough. The Nats are finally having success with some younger players they've developed, with more to come (see Strasburg, Stephen and Storen, Drew). It would be a shame to give away some of their future pieces for a pricey veteran who probably can't offer them too much in the long-term. Mike Rizzo should stick to his plan and continue to improve, piece by piece.
Washington is successful this year because it has done what most bad teams don't do: buy smaller puzzle pieces in the offseason. They signed Adam Kennedy, Matt Capps, and Pudge Rodriguez. Though they don't put a fire in anybody's pants, they have helped Washington be competitive. Overtime, signings like those placed with good young talent tend to mean more victories. My advice to Washington: stick to your plan.
Now if Minnesota gave Rizzo a call...
JMO
Sox Climbing the Ladder; Celtics lose late
The Red Sox showed to us for the first time all season that they're capable of not only beating the best team in baseball on the road, but of putting together a string of wins against quality teams. Last week, I wrote here that their true test was coming in this current stretch against contenders. The Sox seem to have passed the test up to this point.
Though they still sit in fourth place, they aren't too far behind the Yankees, who are snug behind Tampa Bay. Toronto has been surprisingly good -- they've pitched well and they hit home runs. Though most would expect them to slip, the Sox need to keep doing what they've been doing: ignore the standings, and just find ways to win games.
What's been the turn-around? Simple. Pitching, pitching, pitching. When the pitching goes well, the rest seems to fall into place. Adrian Beltre twice got breaks with the bases loaded in two games. On Sunday, he hit a ball through Greg Dobbs' legs and tonight reached on a lucky infield single with the ducks sitting. Ortiz hit another home run tonight, and Youkilis his second in two games. Matsuzaka, Wakefield, and Buchholz have carried the Sox the past three games, respectively. The formula has been simple: pitch well with an over-achieving offense, and success will come.
They clearly still have work to do; it gets easier when the starting outfield is back tomorrow night when Mike Cameron will be activated. He won't carry them or improve them dramatically, but will provide Francona with some much needed flexibility and depth. Jeremy Hermida can now be used against power right-handers late in games as a pinch-hitter; Bill Hall can now play in the infield as a back-up instead of the outfield. It can only help to add depth, which has been lacking since early April.
The outlook for the Red Sox looks promising -- or at the very least -- better. You're only as good as your next day's starting pitcher. Jon Lester sounds good tomorrow.
Celtics Lose Late
Tough losses tend to leave their mark; hopefully the Celtics can move on from tonight's tough game four overtime loss to the Magic.
Paul Pierce had a great game for the Celtics. He carried their offense for most of the game. I thought Rajon Rondo was brilliant with his ball handling all night -- he just needed to drive to the basket a little bit more. The Celtics seem to have a lot of success against Orlando going to the hoop. They've gotten to the line and made their free throws.
Viewing tonight's game, we debated the Celtics not calling time-out before the last shot at the end of regulation. Some argued that the Celtics did the right thing -- allow them to go with momentum, run the same play they'd call even with a time-out, and stay hot -- which they were at the end. When Pierce didn't get a shot off, it didn't symbolize their lack of plan. It was simply a tired player showing he was gassed. And boy, he was gassed. Allen was hot and should have had the ball in his hands. Pierce is your franchise guy and the beloved fan favorite, but that was Allen's calling.
Pierce didn't have it in over-time, nor did any of his teammates. When the game went to OT, the Celtics should have won it. No excuses. They hit big shots to earn the chance to win and they should have closed.
Should fans be nervous? No, the Celtics are not the Bruins. There is no need to start that debate, nor the need to waste worries. However, the Celtics have a difficult game 5 coming. David Stern could send the goons in for this one -- give the Magic some home calls and force a longer series. The Celtics have to do what they did in games 1 and 2: play better defense on Dwight Howard, get Rondo driving, and play hard from the beginning.
Maybe they came out a little flat; the Magic played like a team fighting for their lives. Give them credit. The Celtics didn't lose tonight's game; the Magic won it. Redick was stroking and Nelson hit a couple of big shots. Give credit where credit is due and move on. But the urgency has to be there. They have to close. Game 5, here we come.
JMO
Though they still sit in fourth place, they aren't too far behind the Yankees, who are snug behind Tampa Bay. Toronto has been surprisingly good -- they've pitched well and they hit home runs. Though most would expect them to slip, the Sox need to keep doing what they've been doing: ignore the standings, and just find ways to win games.
What's been the turn-around? Simple. Pitching, pitching, pitching. When the pitching goes well, the rest seems to fall into place. Adrian Beltre twice got breaks with the bases loaded in two games. On Sunday, he hit a ball through Greg Dobbs' legs and tonight reached on a lucky infield single with the ducks sitting. Ortiz hit another home run tonight, and Youkilis his second in two games. Matsuzaka, Wakefield, and Buchholz have carried the Sox the past three games, respectively. The formula has been simple: pitch well with an over-achieving offense, and success will come.
They clearly still have work to do; it gets easier when the starting outfield is back tomorrow night when Mike Cameron will be activated. He won't carry them or improve them dramatically, but will provide Francona with some much needed flexibility and depth. Jeremy Hermida can now be used against power right-handers late in games as a pinch-hitter; Bill Hall can now play in the infield as a back-up instead of the outfield. It can only help to add depth, which has been lacking since early April.
The outlook for the Red Sox looks promising -- or at the very least -- better. You're only as good as your next day's starting pitcher. Jon Lester sounds good tomorrow.
Celtics Lose Late
Tough losses tend to leave their mark; hopefully the Celtics can move on from tonight's tough game four overtime loss to the Magic.
Paul Pierce had a great game for the Celtics. He carried their offense for most of the game. I thought Rajon Rondo was brilliant with his ball handling all night -- he just needed to drive to the basket a little bit more. The Celtics seem to have a lot of success against Orlando going to the hoop. They've gotten to the line and made their free throws.
Viewing tonight's game, we debated the Celtics not calling time-out before the last shot at the end of regulation. Some argued that the Celtics did the right thing -- allow them to go with momentum, run the same play they'd call even with a time-out, and stay hot -- which they were at the end. When Pierce didn't get a shot off, it didn't symbolize their lack of plan. It was simply a tired player showing he was gassed. And boy, he was gassed. Allen was hot and should have had the ball in his hands. Pierce is your franchise guy and the beloved fan favorite, but that was Allen's calling.
Pierce didn't have it in over-time, nor did any of his teammates. When the game went to OT, the Celtics should have won it. No excuses. They hit big shots to earn the chance to win and they should have closed.
Should fans be nervous? No, the Celtics are not the Bruins. There is no need to start that debate, nor the need to waste worries. However, the Celtics have a difficult game 5 coming. David Stern could send the goons in for this one -- give the Magic some home calls and force a longer series. The Celtics have to do what they did in games 1 and 2: play better defense on Dwight Howard, get Rondo driving, and play hard from the beginning.
Maybe they came out a little flat; the Magic played like a team fighting for their lives. Give them credit. The Celtics didn't lose tonight's game; the Magic won it. Redick was stroking and Nelson hit a couple of big shots. Give credit where credit is due and move on. But the urgency has to be there. They have to close. Game 5, here we come.
JMO
Monday, May 24, 2010
Rondo vs. Cowens vs. Bird, Who ya got?
Rajon Rondo's dive on the floor to come up with a loose ball from JJ Reddick was not only a microcosm of this series, but also typical of great Celtics players. The two plays that came to mind were Dave Cowens' dive to try to come up with a loose ball near half court, and Larry Bird's dive into a table behind the baseline. Here are all three plays, who ya got?
Rondo
Cowens
Bird
Note: I couldn't find the youtube clip of the specific Bird play I was talking about, but I figured any time you can watch a 3 minute clip of Larry Bird hustle plays with "Do the hustle" playing in the background, everybody wins. Enjoy!
-Aloy
Rondo
Cowens
Bird
Note: I couldn't find the youtube clip of the specific Bird play I was talking about, but I figured any time you can watch a 3 minute clip of Larry Bird hustle plays with "Do the hustle" playing in the background, everybody wins. Enjoy!
-Aloy
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Game 3 Running Diary
We’re live from Woods basement with Wood, Trev, Abby, and Dossin for my first career running diary. Couldn’t be more excited.
First Quarter
9:30 After the Celtics jump out to a quick 7-0 lead, Rashard Lewis misses a wide open three from the corner, prompting the first “the late Rashard Lewis” joke from Wood. The over/under for the night is 6.5. I pounced on the over. Seriously though, Lewis has nearly singlehandedly killed any chance for this Magic team to win this series. He has to be a viable scoring option for them to be a legitimate contender. Last year against the Celtics, he averaged just over 20 points a game in the playoffs. This year he has averaged 5.5 over the first two games of this series.
8:35 The camera cuts to a busty woman in the crowd. Dossin says look at the chick with the boobs. As opposed to the chick without the boobs… sometimes you just don’t know with Dossin (just kidding Doss we love ya.)
7:30 Matt Barnes scores in transition to cut the Celtics’ lead to 7-4. You get the feeling that if the Celtics can jump on
6:00 Ray Allen dunks over Dwight Howard after taking a dip in the hot tub time machine, prompting a chorus of OHHHHHHS from the room. After being left for dead and shopped around at the trade deadline, Ray’s quiet rejuvenation these playoffs has been an underplayed story, lost in all the “Rajon Rondo is now the leader of this team” hype. The announcers love playing the “you won’t believe this, but the best player on this team may not be Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, or KG, it’s Rajon Rondo.” These are the things that bug you about national announcers. I just want to say “No shit, he’s been the best player on this team since the second half of LAST season. Do your fucking homework guys.”
5:42 DORIS BURKE IN HD ALERT!! DORIS BURKE IN HD ALERT!! That should have flashed across the screen before she popped up.
5:13 Pierce draws a foul on Matt Barnes after an up-fake. He’s the best in the league at doing that. Dossin has cracked 3 lame jokes already. I have under 12.5 in that category, starting to regret that one.
3:15 16-6 Celtics after a perk layup. Wood says the magic’s offense is a joke, he’ll be a guest on the podcast later this week. There is a twilight commercial on tv and we just learned that
0:24 Sheed finishes an alley oop. Call the national guard, cuz we are KILLIN the magic. 27-12 after the first. Wow. I thought we’d see
2nd Quarter
10:38 Mark Jackson calls the Celtics defense a thing of beauty. I agree, but it might be more accurate to just call the Magic offense a thing of ugly. Either way, we got ourselves a blowout.
830 Rondo comes from 15 feet behind Jason Williams to come up with a loose ball in the backcourt and he finishes for a layup. That was just the defining play of why the Celtics are destroying the Magic in this series, and it will be a highlight for years to come. The C’s may win this game by 40.
7:28 Trev calls JJ Reddick JJ red dick, like when a dog gets a red rocket. I like it. Sheldon Williams looks like mahi mahi according to Trev. Here’s a photo of each. I’ll let you be the judge.
630 BIG BABY! 43-19! What are we doing at halftime?.
3 – Big baby has the most ridiculous looking picture with a huge smile. He can’t seem to get a normal looking picture.
0:40 The Celtics come up with a ridiculous rebound when rondo skies above 3 magic players to tip the ball to glen
51-34 at the half, and it’s not even this close. This game is O-V-A.
Since the game was over at the half, I stopped the diary here. The Magic did nothing to make themselves look any better in the second half, and it looked like the C’s could have won by 50 if they really wanted to. Beat LA baby!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
2 hours till gametime
Game 3 is two hours away and I'm stoked. If it feels like they haven't played a game in this series in months, it's because they haven't. Christ what a pointlessly long break. Let's hope it doesn't have much effect on the Celtics. I've never been much of a believer in "momentum" carrying over from one game to the next in sports. It doesn't matter what you did in your last game, only what you do tonight. What's so great about the Celtics is that they know that and have brought it every night in the playoffs.
Quick thoughts on tonight's game:
The most intriguing thing to me is what will Orlando try to do differently? It seems like they've been trying to run their offense through posting Dwight Howard and it hasn't been effective at all. What will Ron Jeremy do to change things up? Will he stubbornly stick with the same gameplan and go down with the ship? The Celtics can bring out the brooms if they win tonight, so you have to figure they'll get Orlando's best game. I find it hard to believe Rashard Lewis can play this badly for a whole series, so it's time for him to man up tonight. It feels like Orlando will keep it close tonight, but the great thing about sports is you never know.
Check out the site tomorrow for a game recap and potential retro-diary.
-Aloy
Quick thoughts on tonight's game:
The most intriguing thing to me is what will Orlando try to do differently? It seems like they've been trying to run their offense through posting Dwight Howard and it hasn't been effective at all. What will Ron Jeremy do to change things up? Will he stubbornly stick with the same gameplan and go down with the ship? The Celtics can bring out the brooms if they win tonight, so you have to figure they'll get Orlando's best game. I find it hard to believe Rashard Lewis can play this badly for a whole series, so it's time for him to man up tonight. It feels like Orlando will keep it close tonight, but the great thing about sports is you never know.
Check out the site tomorrow for a game recap and potential retro-diary.
-Aloy
Over 750 Million Reasons to Root against Tiger
750 million dollars.
You'd probably run out of things to buy before it's all gone.
Reports are that Elin's demands from Tiger have reached 750 million dollars. Good thing Tiger didn't lose ALL of his endorsements.
I always rooted against Tiger. Any player who wins the majority of the time becomes the enemy over time. Tiger shoved his picture-perfect PR image in the faces of his fans. Beloved golfer, husband, father, son of Earl, etc. His fist pumps grew tired in the back of our minds, but he was still Tiger. Still perfect.
What happened early Friday morning after Thanksgiving gave a sigh of relief to everyone. He was human like the rest of us. Then the mistresses and strippers came out -- and he became worse than human.
Oh, right, he's a sex addict.
My mistake, he had a problem.
Lost in all of the Tiger drama is the person who has taken the biggest hit and suffered the most: Elin. I'll spare you the feminist rants and get to the most important point: I hope Elin cleans up every penny she is asking for.
Do I believe that the November night in Orlando was the first time Elin found out about Tiger's secret life? No way. However, that night could have been strike three, or based on the number of affairs, strike thirty. No wonder Tiger got whipped that night (insert Tiger sex joke here). Since the affairs, negative publicity (to put it lightly), the texts and voicemails, paparazzi, and press conferences, Tiger has been a disgrace to his fans, family, and even himself. I'm embarassed to see him even try and play golf. After his strong showing in the Masters in April, he's been to golf what the Bruins have been to Boston: disgraceful. The Nike commercial with his father's voice was not only sinful, but proved to me and many others how truly sick this guy is.
Phil Mickelson's Masters performance was beautiful. Phil cares for his sick wife. Tiger cheats on his. Phil cries before cameras -- exposing his true self. He doesn't hold back, speaks honestly, and earns the respect from all authentically. Tiger frames his image, life, family, and self-being to deceive us into loving him. He lies, cheats, and even steals our respect. Lefty sporting the green jacket that day over Tiger taught us a valuable lesson: live the right way and life will treat you well. How ironic, Tiger.
Tiger has spent years chasing bimbos, winning majors, and filling bank accounts like no one else. He now sits at home injured, nearly divorced, destroyed, and soon to be broke. I don't wish for bad on people -- but Tiger won't be receiving my sympathy card in the mail. I hope Nike makes commercials for bankruptcy, because Tiger is certainly not out of the Woods.
You'd probably run out of things to buy before it's all gone.
Reports are that Elin's demands from Tiger have reached 750 million dollars. Good thing Tiger didn't lose ALL of his endorsements.
I always rooted against Tiger. Any player who wins the majority of the time becomes the enemy over time. Tiger shoved his picture-perfect PR image in the faces of his fans. Beloved golfer, husband, father, son of Earl, etc. His fist pumps grew tired in the back of our minds, but he was still Tiger. Still perfect.
What happened early Friday morning after Thanksgiving gave a sigh of relief to everyone. He was human like the rest of us. Then the mistresses and strippers came out -- and he became worse than human.
Oh, right, he's a sex addict.
My mistake, he had a problem.
Lost in all of the Tiger drama is the person who has taken the biggest hit and suffered the most: Elin. I'll spare you the feminist rants and get to the most important point: I hope Elin cleans up every penny she is asking for.
Do I believe that the November night in Orlando was the first time Elin found out about Tiger's secret life? No way. However, that night could have been strike three, or based on the number of affairs, strike thirty. No wonder Tiger got whipped that night (insert Tiger sex joke here). Since the affairs, negative publicity (to put it lightly), the texts and voicemails, paparazzi, and press conferences, Tiger has been a disgrace to his fans, family, and even himself. I'm embarassed to see him even try and play golf. After his strong showing in the Masters in April, he's been to golf what the Bruins have been to Boston: disgraceful. The Nike commercial with his father's voice was not only sinful, but proved to me and many others how truly sick this guy is.
Phil Mickelson's Masters performance was beautiful. Phil cares for his sick wife. Tiger cheats on his. Phil cries before cameras -- exposing his true self. He doesn't hold back, speaks honestly, and earns the respect from all authentically. Tiger frames his image, life, family, and self-being to deceive us into loving him. He lies, cheats, and even steals our respect. Lefty sporting the green jacket that day over Tiger taught us a valuable lesson: live the right way and life will treat you well. How ironic, Tiger.
Tiger has spent years chasing bimbos, winning majors, and filling bank accounts like no one else. He now sits at home injured, nearly divorced, destroyed, and soon to be broke. I don't wish for bad on people -- but Tiger won't be receiving my sympathy card in the mail. I hope Nike makes commercials for bankruptcy, because Tiger is certainly not out of the Woods.
Friday, May 21, 2010
A little Puzzled Lately
Maybe you'll accuse me of being negative. Maybe you'll accuse me of disagreeing for the sake of being different. Either way, I'm puzzled lately. With whom, you wonder? Your Boston Red Sox, OF COURSE!
I've read numerous articles across the internet today, with writers boasting about how the Red Sox have "turned the corner" and are "playing great baseball," etc. I've read that they've "found their winning formulas" and are "full of heart."
What's the matter, smartass? You don't know any f****** Shakespeare?
I'm not saying the Red Sox haven't played well over the past three games (four -- if you include Jonathan Papelbon's disgrace of a performance in New York). But I am saying this: the last time the Red Sox "found it" was after sweeping the Angels. They then proceeded to lose two of three to the Yankees at home and struggle in Detroit.
The old saying goes: Don't hold your breath.
Just because this team beat Minnesota, in which I'll admit was with their desired and planned formula -- pitching, pitching, pitching -- doesn't mean they're ready to make a run at climbing back into the category of respectability. You want the media off your back? Put your money where your mouth is. You want people to stop doubting you? Put up, or shut up. It needs to be seen over the course of a longer period of time than three games.
In my upcoming trip to Baltimore June 4 - 6, I have no idea which team I'll be seeing. In exactly fourteen days, I'll know. The Red Sox will either have gone 6-7 or 7-6, based on the first couple of months. Time will tell what the Red Sox are -- and so will the VPs.
I've read numerous articles across the internet today, with writers boasting about how the Red Sox have "turned the corner" and are "playing great baseball," etc. I've read that they've "found their winning formulas" and are "full of heart."
What's the matter, smartass? You don't know any f****** Shakespeare?
I'm not saying the Red Sox haven't played well over the past three games (four -- if you include Jonathan Papelbon's disgrace of a performance in New York). But I am saying this: the last time the Red Sox "found it" was after sweeping the Angels. They then proceeded to lose two of three to the Yankees at home and struggle in Detroit.
The old saying goes: Don't hold your breath.
Just because this team beat Minnesota, in which I'll admit was with their desired and planned formula -- pitching, pitching, pitching -- doesn't mean they're ready to make a run at climbing back into the category of respectability. You want the media off your back? Put your money where your mouth is. You want people to stop doubting you? Put up, or shut up. It needs to be seen over the course of a longer period of time than three games.
In my upcoming trip to Baltimore June 4 - 6, I have no idea which team I'll be seeing. In exactly fourteen days, I'll know. The Red Sox will either have gone 6-7 or 7-6, based on the first couple of months. Time will tell what the Red Sox are -- and so will the VPs.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Cue the Duckboats!! and a couple poker hands
I usually don't like to jinx these things, but this Celtics series is over. The C's are playing their best basketball since the '08 title run, and as long as that continues, I don't think anyone can stop them. Paul Pierce continues to have his way with Vince Carter on offense, getting any shot he wants. The Magic have no answer for Rondo in transition. Baby continues to play well, and Perk and Sheed keep effectively hacking Dwight (Da-white) Howard. Getcha brooms ready.
How great was it when Vince went down with another fake injury in game 2? He slipped a little and then grabbed his left wrist, which would have made sense, if, you know, he had fallen on his left wrist. I was watching the game with my parents and I immediately started cackling and said "there he goes again" when Vince went down. The replay confirmed that he hadn't hit his wrist and was faking it. I laughed and said "he didn't even hit his wrist! He's faking it!" Mom didn't understand why he'd do that. "I don't get it, why would he fake it?" I told her "that's just what he does." Vince Carter, ladies and gentlemen!
Speaking of Vince, he destroyed any chance for a Magic comeback by bricking two free throws with 30 seconds left and the Magic down by 3. This was surprising to...well, no one. Vince's choke overshadowed another pathetic game from Rashard Lewis (6 years, $110 million). Somehow he can't even take KG off the dribble from 25 feet. Realistically he deserves the blame for the Magic's poor performance more than even Vince or da-white.
It may be too early to think ahead to the finals, but you have to like our chances against the Lakers. I'll breakdown the matchups when the time comes, but lets just say the Rondo-Fisher matchup will be like a war between Germany and France, and Rondo sure as hell ain't gonna be France.
Alright, on to a couple poker hands from my last live session. 1/2 NL Holdem at Foxwoods.
Action folds to me in the Highjack seat. I open to $10 w Ks10h. Villain on button makes it $20. Villain has been aggressive, having shown a bluff in a big pot from position. Usually a min-raise like that means Aces, Kings, or Queens, usually not AK against a random because most are afraid to play AK post flop. So realistically this is an easy fold, but I like to build a loose-aggressive (read donk) image at these live tables as it makes it easy to get paid off with big hands.
So with a pot of about $40, we see a heads up flop of A 6 2 rainbow. I check, villain bets out $25. At this point his range is polarized, as if he has AA or the very occasional AK he is sitting pretty but if he has KK or QQ he hates that flop. I figure I can make the min raise to $50, risking $50 to win a $65 pot, and the play only has to be successful less than 50% of the time to be a +EV play. Assuming he will fold a non-ace, it seems to be a +EV play. AA is less likely with the A on the flop, so we'll estimate his range at something like 35%AA, 40%KK, 15% QQ, 10% AK or AQ. So we expect him to be folding 55% of the time. Naturally, he calls. I obviously have to shut it down and check-fold the turn. I do, and he shows...KK!?
Weird hand, but I still think the play on the flop is +EV in a vacuum, as I think most will fold KK in that situation. Also, for image purposes, a check-raise on the flop followed by a check-fold makes me look like a complete nut who will check-raise an A high flop with air, which should help me to get paid off in later hands. Obviously my call pre-flop is dangerous, and I would recommend against making that call. I did it because 1. I'm a huge donk, and 2. my range was basically any two cards, while his range was very narrow. Generally when you can keep your range wide and your opponent's range narrow, you have created a +EV situation, although not when your out of position and your opponent may be holding the nuts.
On to hand 2. Action folds to me in the cutoff seat, I hold KsQd. I make it $13 to play (my standard raise has been anywhere from $10-$15.) The SB (villain from the other hand) and BB (calling station) call. Here we have created a much better situation than the last hand, as I have position in a 3 way pot with likely the best hand.
Flop: 10 8 2 rainbow.
SB leads out $20 into a pot of about $40. BB folds.
Ok so here we have a situation where the SB leads out on a raggy flop. The standard play is to check to the pre-flop aggressor, and leading out into him is called a donk bet. Most people will do this hoping to take down the pot immediately with a hand that caught some of the board. People will occasionally do this with a set, but it's hard to imagine the SB would do that against an aggressive player like me who is likely to continuation bet almost every flop. So here is another spot where you can just fold, but the guy leading out to me likely has a weak 10 or 8, and I doubt his hand is strong enough to play a big pot out of position, so I make it $60. In a pot in position like this my cards matter less than how much heat I think my opponent's hand can take, so once again I think raising to 60 (betting 60 to win 60) is a +EV play. But of course my opponent calls the bet and eventually wins the hand holding K8. Anyway, I still think my play is theoretically a good one, although it's possible I picked the wrong opponent to try to make the play against.
-Aloy
How great was it when Vince went down with another fake injury in game 2? He slipped a little and then grabbed his left wrist, which would have made sense, if, you know, he had fallen on his left wrist. I was watching the game with my parents and I immediately started cackling and said "there he goes again" when Vince went down. The replay confirmed that he hadn't hit his wrist and was faking it. I laughed and said "he didn't even hit his wrist! He's faking it!" Mom didn't understand why he'd do that. "I don't get it, why would he fake it?" I told her "that's just what he does." Vince Carter, ladies and gentlemen!
Speaking of Vince, he destroyed any chance for a Magic comeback by bricking two free throws with 30 seconds left and the Magic down by 3. This was surprising to...well, no one. Vince's choke overshadowed another pathetic game from Rashard Lewis (6 years, $110 million). Somehow he can't even take KG off the dribble from 25 feet. Realistically he deserves the blame for the Magic's poor performance more than even Vince or da-white.
It may be too early to think ahead to the finals, but you have to like our chances against the Lakers. I'll breakdown the matchups when the time comes, but lets just say the Rondo-Fisher matchup will be like a war between Germany and France, and Rondo sure as hell ain't gonna be France.
Alright, on to a couple poker hands from my last live session. 1/2 NL Holdem at Foxwoods.
Action folds to me in the Highjack seat. I open to $10 w Ks10h. Villain on button makes it $20. Villain has been aggressive, having shown a bluff in a big pot from position. Usually a min-raise like that means Aces, Kings, or Queens, usually not AK against a random because most are afraid to play AK post flop. So realistically this is an easy fold, but I like to build a loose-aggressive (read donk) image at these live tables as it makes it easy to get paid off with big hands.
So with a pot of about $40, we see a heads up flop of A 6 2 rainbow. I check, villain bets out $25. At this point his range is polarized, as if he has AA or the very occasional AK he is sitting pretty but if he has KK or QQ he hates that flop. I figure I can make the min raise to $50, risking $50 to win a $65 pot, and the play only has to be successful less than 50% of the time to be a +EV play. Assuming he will fold a non-ace, it seems to be a +EV play. AA is less likely with the A on the flop, so we'll estimate his range at something like 35%AA, 40%KK, 15% QQ, 10% AK or AQ. So we expect him to be folding 55% of the time. Naturally, he calls. I obviously have to shut it down and check-fold the turn. I do, and he shows...KK!?
Weird hand, but I still think the play on the flop is +EV in a vacuum, as I think most will fold KK in that situation. Also, for image purposes, a check-raise on the flop followed by a check-fold makes me look like a complete nut who will check-raise an A high flop with air, which should help me to get paid off in later hands. Obviously my call pre-flop is dangerous, and I would recommend against making that call. I did it because 1. I'm a huge donk, and 2. my range was basically any two cards, while his range was very narrow. Generally when you can keep your range wide and your opponent's range narrow, you have created a +EV situation, although not when your out of position and your opponent may be holding the nuts.
On to hand 2. Action folds to me in the cutoff seat, I hold KsQd. I make it $13 to play (my standard raise has been anywhere from $10-$15.) The SB (villain from the other hand) and BB (calling station) call. Here we have created a much better situation than the last hand, as I have position in a 3 way pot with likely the best hand.
Flop: 10 8 2 rainbow.
SB leads out $20 into a pot of about $40. BB folds.
Ok so here we have a situation where the SB leads out on a raggy flop. The standard play is to check to the pre-flop aggressor, and leading out into him is called a donk bet. Most people will do this hoping to take down the pot immediately with a hand that caught some of the board. People will occasionally do this with a set, but it's hard to imagine the SB would do that against an aggressive player like me who is likely to continuation bet almost every flop. So here is another spot where you can just fold, but the guy leading out to me likely has a weak 10 or 8, and I doubt his hand is strong enough to play a big pot out of position, so I make it $60. In a pot in position like this my cards matter less than how much heat I think my opponent's hand can take, so once again I think raising to 60 (betting 60 to win 60) is a +EV play. But of course my opponent calls the bet and eventually wins the hand holding K8. Anyway, I still think my play is theoretically a good one, although it's possible I picked the wrong opponent to try to make the play against.
-Aloy
Monday, May 17, 2010
Sox - Yankees: How they really match up
For the third time already in this short season, the Red Sox will play the Yanks tonight, opening up a short -- but probably not sweet -- two game series in the Bronx. Despite expected doubts, I'm hearing the Sox will try for a quality start for once tonight.
Most who know me understand the media has a tendency to get under my skin. All I ask for is for "non-corportate, un-bias, non right-wing media" industries and members. I want truth, reality, and for reporters and writers to give me the news, not create it. It's been difficult since Henry and Warner bought the Red Sox for authentic coverage to be given to the royal fans. Most of us are fed scripted and carefully planned opinions that try too hard not to bash the team and its management, while still creating enough intensity and attention to keep fans engaged.
It gets tiring time after time, since Dr. Charles took over the PR department and clowns on stilts hovered over Landsown Street like crowes over trash cans. The media spent much of the offseason protecting the team's arrogant and thoughltess plan to win with defense in an offensive park, while ignoring the recent holes in the bullpen (Wagner, Saito to ATL). Much of the media also decided that the Red Sox had enough talent to compete with an possibly overtake the Yankees. In honor of the two teams playing tonight, it is necessary and well overdue for fans to truly look at how far apart the talent on the two teams really is.
Catcher: Jorge Posada vs. Victor Martinez
Say what you want about Jorge's defense declining in recent years and his bum shoulder and occasional injuries, the guy still hits the hell out of the ball and carries the pitching staff. His leadership caries as much weight as a power lifter, which is never a bad thing over the course of a 162 game season. Victor's defense is atrocious, but him and Posada are about equally talented offensively, both switch-hitting and providing pop at the plate. Advantage: NYY
First Base: Mark Text-Message vs. Kevin Youkilis
Not to knock on Youk, but Mark Teixeira is probably the best first baseman in the American League. One can't criticize the Red Sox for having Youkilis as their first baseman -- he's outstanding in the field, at the plate, and as a teammate. But one certainly can criticize the Sox for not having their enemy's ammo. Advantage: NYY
Second Base: Robby Don't Ya Know vs. Dustin Pedroia
This will sound like a typical Red Sox homer, but I don't care what anyone says. With his size and limits, Dustin Pedroia is the best second baseman in baseball. Chase Utley and Robinson Cano have ball-player bodies. They're taller than 5'5". They have power hitters hitting behind them, oh, and they grew up playing that position. Dustin Pedroia was a short stop, and I don't care if Cano spent some time there. Pedroia made the transition, and won a gold glove. He won the AL Rookie of the Year in 2007 and had a killer postseason. He killed the Rays in the 2008 ALCS, and last I checked, won the MVP that year. He's a leader and has the heart of a lion, and everything I hear is that he's the new captain in the locker room. I watched Robinson Cano in the playoffs in 2009. He struck out numerous times, played lazy defense all throughout 2009, and has a reputation for partying in the past off the field. I give him credit -- he has been one of the top players this season. But you don't decide who is better after April and two weeks off May. You do it over time, and Pedroia is more proven and flat out better. He maximizes himself. Just look at the hardware. Advantage: BOS
Shortstop: Derek Jeter vs. Marco Scutaro
Don't really have to say too much here. Scutaro has been decent to date, but: Advantage: NYY
Third Base: Alex Rodriguez (with Jon Miller's fake spanish accent) vs. Adrian Beltre (Bel-TRAY, as Miller would also say)
Again, no contenst here. Beltre has been solid at the plate with his power coming on. A-Rod is the biggest super-star in the rivalry. Advantage: NYY
Left Field: Randy Winn/Marcus Thames vs. Jacoby Ellsbury
While the Yankees not signing Jason Bay or Matt Holliday is surprising, it can't be as surprising as the Red Sox not locking one of them up, either. With a power outage on both sides here, the Sox clearly have the better left fielder. I think Ellsbury needs to grow a little bit regarding injuries; Sean McAdam had a report a few weeks ago that Jacoby had to be forced numerous times in the minors to play through smaller injuries, most likely fallout from Agent Scott Boras. Advantage: BOS
Center Field: The Grandy Man vs. Mike Cameron
A young star vs. a 37-year-old outfielder who frequently strikes out. Not much of a contest here again, with the Yanks cleaning this one up. Granderson has been solid until his recent DL trip. He certainly got the Red Sox attention with two big home runs in the opening series. Advantage: NYY
Right Field: Nick Swisher vs. J.D. Drew
If Drew made 6 million dollars a year, no one would think twice about this one. He's a superb defender with a plus arm. He has great range and plays the tricky Fenway right field well. He does get on base, regardless of the puzzling batting average. He deserves a lot of credit for carrying the team in 2008 when David Ortiz hurt his wrist. Though he drives us all crazy for the occasional day off, double play ball to the right side, or taking a third strike, he's better than Swisher. Advantage: BOS
Designated Hitter: Nick Johnson vs. David Ortiz/Mike Lowell
Think it's officially time to put Mike Lowell into the mix here? Me too. Though Ortiz has had a few nice games lately, if we're feeling that good about it, we're all in trouble. Lowell has been solid when given the chance, but Ortiz has killed them time and again with his strike outs and lack of homers, RBIs, and smiles. Breaking the bat over his leg in front of Francona a few weeks ago couldn't be more wrong; to show up the manager who protected you when you got caught with 'roids is just mean. To make things awkward in the clubhouse for a class-act like Lowell -- who has taken his fair share of poor treatment by management -- is even worse. Nick Johnson, however, is equally as bad. I give the advantage to the Red Sox, only because Lowell is a respectable hitter and Johnson has more career DL trips than the NBA playoffs have tattoos. Advantage: (gulp) BOS
Starting Rotation: Lester, Beckett, Lackey, Dice-K, Buchholz vs. Sabathia, Burnett, Pettitte, Hughes, Vazquez
As bad as Vazquez has been, this one isn't close. It's my duty to write the truth and what I think. On paper, I think the Red Sox have the potential and ability to be better; that isn't the case so for in 2010. Beckett has been dreadful. Lester and Lackey have been inconsistent, and Buchholz has had his share of stinkers. Dice-K is as unpredictable as the weather. So far this year (again, so far...), the Yankees rotation has been much, much better. With Pettitte hurt and Sergio Mitre making starts for them, along with Vazquez stinking up the joint, the Sox have a chance to turn this around. However, the numbers and results don't lie. Advantage: NYY
Bullpen: Rivera, Chamberlain, Robertson, Marte, etc. vs. Papelbon, Bard, Okajima, Ramirez, Delcarmen, etc.
The Red Sox bullpen opened the season with two or three relievers who don't belong in the American League, maybe even baseball. The Yankees have their share of problems, but haven't blown games. Okajima, we all love him, can't get out of jams when he inherits runners. Daniel Bard, for some reason, hasn't been called out. I understand he throws 98-100 MPH and looks cool out there, but he's blown several games already and has given up some brutal poorly-timed home runs. Sorry, just reporting the truth. Delcarmen should have been dealt when he had value, and Ramon Ramirez throws strikes as often as I refuse to swear. Papelbon has been very good and overall, some of the reliever's numbers aren't that bad. However, the Yankees have out performed and probably have a better bullpen when Joba is at his best in the 8th inning. I do think the Yankees have the better pen, but it is so close that we will call it a draw. Advantage: None
Manager: "G.I." Joe Girardi vs. Tito Francona
His nickname in his first season as Red Sox manager was "Francoma," criticized for managerial decisions that made fans wonder if he was in a coma. He's been outstanding with his moves; he rarely, if ever, loses a game by himself for the team. Girardi deserves credit for winning a World Series without doubt, but he isn't a great manager, or even a real good one. He did well with Florida in 2006, but he manages the bullpen as well as the Enron people did their company. Two World Series is more than one. Advantage: BOS
Your totals... Yankees win 6 categories, Red Sox win 4. Though that seems close enough, when you look at the core positions: Rotation, Up the Middle (Catcher, Shortstop, Centerfield), and middle of the order, it's not as close as it seems. Any Given game day... Any Given game Day...
JMO
Most who know me understand the media has a tendency to get under my skin. All I ask for is for "non-corportate, un-bias, non right-wing media" industries and members. I want truth, reality, and for reporters and writers to give me the news, not create it. It's been difficult since Henry and Warner bought the Red Sox for authentic coverage to be given to the royal fans. Most of us are fed scripted and carefully planned opinions that try too hard not to bash the team and its management, while still creating enough intensity and attention to keep fans engaged.
It gets tiring time after time, since Dr. Charles took over the PR department and clowns on stilts hovered over Landsown Street like crowes over trash cans. The media spent much of the offseason protecting the team's arrogant and thoughltess plan to win with defense in an offensive park, while ignoring the recent holes in the bullpen (Wagner, Saito to ATL). Much of the media also decided that the Red Sox had enough talent to compete with an possibly overtake the Yankees. In honor of the two teams playing tonight, it is necessary and well overdue for fans to truly look at how far apart the talent on the two teams really is.
Catcher: Jorge Posada vs. Victor Martinez
Say what you want about Jorge's defense declining in recent years and his bum shoulder and occasional injuries, the guy still hits the hell out of the ball and carries the pitching staff. His leadership caries as much weight as a power lifter, which is never a bad thing over the course of a 162 game season. Victor's defense is atrocious, but him and Posada are about equally talented offensively, both switch-hitting and providing pop at the plate. Advantage: NYY
First Base: Mark Text-Message vs. Kevin Youkilis
Not to knock on Youk, but Mark Teixeira is probably the best first baseman in the American League. One can't criticize the Red Sox for having Youkilis as their first baseman -- he's outstanding in the field, at the plate, and as a teammate. But one certainly can criticize the Sox for not having their enemy's ammo. Advantage: NYY
Second Base: Robby Don't Ya Know vs. Dustin Pedroia
This will sound like a typical Red Sox homer, but I don't care what anyone says. With his size and limits, Dustin Pedroia is the best second baseman in baseball. Chase Utley and Robinson Cano have ball-player bodies. They're taller than 5'5". They have power hitters hitting behind them, oh, and they grew up playing that position. Dustin Pedroia was a short stop, and I don't care if Cano spent some time there. Pedroia made the transition, and won a gold glove. He won the AL Rookie of the Year in 2007 and had a killer postseason. He killed the Rays in the 2008 ALCS, and last I checked, won the MVP that year. He's a leader and has the heart of a lion, and everything I hear is that he's the new captain in the locker room. I watched Robinson Cano in the playoffs in 2009. He struck out numerous times, played lazy defense all throughout 2009, and has a reputation for partying in the past off the field. I give him credit -- he has been one of the top players this season. But you don't decide who is better after April and two weeks off May. You do it over time, and Pedroia is more proven and flat out better. He maximizes himself. Just look at the hardware. Advantage: BOS
Shortstop: Derek Jeter vs. Marco Scutaro
Don't really have to say too much here. Scutaro has been decent to date, but: Advantage: NYY
Third Base: Alex Rodriguez (with Jon Miller's fake spanish accent) vs. Adrian Beltre (Bel-TRAY, as Miller would also say)
Again, no contenst here. Beltre has been solid at the plate with his power coming on. A-Rod is the biggest super-star in the rivalry. Advantage: NYY
Left Field: Randy Winn/Marcus Thames vs. Jacoby Ellsbury
While the Yankees not signing Jason Bay or Matt Holliday is surprising, it can't be as surprising as the Red Sox not locking one of them up, either. With a power outage on both sides here, the Sox clearly have the better left fielder. I think Ellsbury needs to grow a little bit regarding injuries; Sean McAdam had a report a few weeks ago that Jacoby had to be forced numerous times in the minors to play through smaller injuries, most likely fallout from Agent Scott Boras. Advantage: BOS
Center Field: The Grandy Man vs. Mike Cameron
A young star vs. a 37-year-old outfielder who frequently strikes out. Not much of a contest here again, with the Yanks cleaning this one up. Granderson has been solid until his recent DL trip. He certainly got the Red Sox attention with two big home runs in the opening series. Advantage: NYY
Right Field: Nick Swisher vs. J.D. Drew
If Drew made 6 million dollars a year, no one would think twice about this one. He's a superb defender with a plus arm. He has great range and plays the tricky Fenway right field well. He does get on base, regardless of the puzzling batting average. He deserves a lot of credit for carrying the team in 2008 when David Ortiz hurt his wrist. Though he drives us all crazy for the occasional day off, double play ball to the right side, or taking a third strike, he's better than Swisher. Advantage: BOS
Designated Hitter: Nick Johnson vs. David Ortiz/Mike Lowell
Think it's officially time to put Mike Lowell into the mix here? Me too. Though Ortiz has had a few nice games lately, if we're feeling that good about it, we're all in trouble. Lowell has been solid when given the chance, but Ortiz has killed them time and again with his strike outs and lack of homers, RBIs, and smiles. Breaking the bat over his leg in front of Francona a few weeks ago couldn't be more wrong; to show up the manager who protected you when you got caught with 'roids is just mean. To make things awkward in the clubhouse for a class-act like Lowell -- who has taken his fair share of poor treatment by management -- is even worse. Nick Johnson, however, is equally as bad. I give the advantage to the Red Sox, only because Lowell is a respectable hitter and Johnson has more career DL trips than the NBA playoffs have tattoos. Advantage: (gulp) BOS
Starting Rotation: Lester, Beckett, Lackey, Dice-K, Buchholz vs. Sabathia, Burnett, Pettitte, Hughes, Vazquez
As bad as Vazquez has been, this one isn't close. It's my duty to write the truth and what I think. On paper, I think the Red Sox have the potential and ability to be better; that isn't the case so for in 2010. Beckett has been dreadful. Lester and Lackey have been inconsistent, and Buchholz has had his share of stinkers. Dice-K is as unpredictable as the weather. So far this year (again, so far...), the Yankees rotation has been much, much better. With Pettitte hurt and Sergio Mitre making starts for them, along with Vazquez stinking up the joint, the Sox have a chance to turn this around. However, the numbers and results don't lie. Advantage: NYY
Bullpen: Rivera, Chamberlain, Robertson, Marte, etc. vs. Papelbon, Bard, Okajima, Ramirez, Delcarmen, etc.
The Red Sox bullpen opened the season with two or three relievers who don't belong in the American League, maybe even baseball. The Yankees have their share of problems, but haven't blown games. Okajima, we all love him, can't get out of jams when he inherits runners. Daniel Bard, for some reason, hasn't been called out. I understand he throws 98-100 MPH and looks cool out there, but he's blown several games already and has given up some brutal poorly-timed home runs. Sorry, just reporting the truth. Delcarmen should have been dealt when he had value, and Ramon Ramirez throws strikes as often as I refuse to swear. Papelbon has been very good and overall, some of the reliever's numbers aren't that bad. However, the Yankees have out performed and probably have a better bullpen when Joba is at his best in the 8th inning. I do think the Yankees have the better pen, but it is so close that we will call it a draw. Advantage: None
Manager: "G.I." Joe Girardi vs. Tito Francona
His nickname in his first season as Red Sox manager was "Francoma," criticized for managerial decisions that made fans wonder if he was in a coma. He's been outstanding with his moves; he rarely, if ever, loses a game by himself for the team. Girardi deserves credit for winning a World Series without doubt, but he isn't a great manager, or even a real good one. He did well with Florida in 2006, but he manages the bullpen as well as the Enron people did their company. Two World Series is more than one. Advantage: BOS
Your totals... Yankees win 6 categories, Red Sox win 4. Though that seems close enough, when you look at the core positions: Rotation, Up the Middle (Catcher, Shortstop, Centerfield), and middle of the order, it's not as close as it seems. Any Given game day... Any Given game Day...
JMO
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