I'll put together another post in a few days that will try to draw some conclusions from the deals we have seen this week, but for now I'm going to be more philosophical about why this is one of my favorite days on the sports calendar each year.
The Trade Deadline in Major League Baseball is a completely unique experience. Though trade deadlines exist in other sports, you almost never see this kind of excitement surrounding them. Trades in the NFL are so rare that you're more likely to see a California Condor than a blockbuster deal. Trades in the NBA occur almost exclusively in the off-season. The NHL is the only other major professional sport that can even hold a flame to the baseball deadline, because usually there are more than a few teams trading pieces and trying to gear up for a play-off run.
The NHL deadline isn't quite the same, though. It has to fight with the NBA, March Madness, and Spring Training to get attention. For another thing, it takes place within the world of the National Hockey League, and recent polls suggest only 60% of the American public believes such a place exists.
But the real reason why I like the baseball deadline is not because it is superior to all the other trade deadlines. The reason is connected to why I love baseball itself; because the trade deadline reflects the intense, yet subtle, drama that is built into every single game.
Baseball is a game of possibilities. The pauses between every pitch allow you to imagine all the possible outcomes. The way the second-baseman shifts closer to the bag, or the way the pitcher eyes the runner at first, or the batter digging into the box - they all express the possibility of what might happen next. Every pitch is played out in the mind dozens of times before it is delivered on the field.
When the time for action comes, and the pitch is thrown, those possibilities reach a crescendo in a split-second, a time when anything is possible. On most pitches, not much happens. The ball is delivered back to the mound and the possibilities begin to mount once again. It is this relationship, between the action on the field and the drama of the mind, that makes baseball so uniquely appealing. The repetition, pitch after pitch, inning after inning,
In sports that are all about constant motion (like hockey, basketball, or soccer) the breaks in the game are interruptions that take us away from the action, but in baseball the long pauses are part of the beauty of the game.
So what does this have to do with the Trade Deadline? Everything.
The deadline embodies the same qualities that make baseball so great, because this is a day that is all about possibilities. For every trade that becomes a reality, hundreds of others are played out in the minds of fans and GMs across the country. Just like a baseball game, most of the action takes place in the mind, with adversaries staring each other down and trying to out-wit each other in pursuit of victory. Each day in the weeks leading up to this day is like an inning of a game, each rumored proposal is like a single pitch, containing within it all the possibilities of success, failure, and everything in between. Some become Home Runs, while others end up as strikeouts, but most remain in the mind, never given the chance to become reality.
This is an experience that is, in my opinion, utterly unique in the world of sports. And that's why I enjoy it so much.
I imagine that it is the same kind of feeling that many have for the NFL draft, but I've never really enjoyed that as much. It's too formulaic, too ordered, to have the same sense of infinite possible outcomes. In that way, it reflects its game as well. The formula of football precludes the feeling that "anything is possible" because you have only four downs, you have only 60 minutes, and the draft is the same way: you have only 7 rounds, you have a set amount of time per pick. While baseball fans live for the drama of a thousand outcomes all possible at once in the mind, football fans live for the intense, though brief, moments of excitement and action.
So here we are, in the bottom of the ninth, only a few hours from the deadline. Every moment contains flashes of what might be. The possibilities are endless.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Ortiz Joins A-Roid on the List?
So many of you by now have probably read that David Ortiz has joined Alex Rodriguez on what is sure to be the long list of baseball players who used performance enhancing drugs in the early 2000s. In this case, 2003. Even as a Red Sox fan, I can't say I find this particularly shocking. What is becoming increasingly clear through the names that so far have been leaked from this supposedly closed list, is that many of MLBs big stars during these years were linked to steroids. It's beginning to seem that if Henry Aaron's asterisk for PED users gets approved, we are going to be seeing a whole bunch of asterisks for players during the 2000s. With these high-profile names being leaked, it does make a fan wonder, is this only the tip of the icerberg? Was steroid use as widespread as it appears to be, or were PEDs linked primarily to these players who happened to be at the top of the batting charts? Unfortunately until the whole list is released or leaked, us ordinary fans will have no idea just how widespread PED use was in baseball, all we will be able to do is speculate on who may or may not have done steroids or used other drugs to get a leg up on their fellow players.
As a fan of the Red Sox, I have to say it is saddening in some ways to see two of the best players (Ortiz and Manny Ramirez) on the 2004 World Series team linked to PEDs by this report. At the same time, I would not be surprised to learn if there were other members of the team whose names are also on the PED list. To all the fans who I'm sure will come out of the woodwork and argue that this somehow cheapens the World Series rings that the Red Sox won during this time frame, I cannot really refute this argument completely. But part of me can't help but think that if we were to have the list in front of us, that there would likely be a representative from every team in baseball on that list.
Will we ever see the list appear fully? Somehow I doubt it, unless it gets to a point where credibility for the league gets to such a low that the Players Union just decides to release the list to the press. Part of the reason that we will be unlikely to see a leak of the list, in my opinion is the fact that whoever posts it will get the pants sued off them by an angry group of players who were informed that this list was going to be confidential. On this disappointing day for Red Sox fans, and once again for baseball fans overall, I can't help but look ahead to the coming weeks and months when I'm sure we will find what other players rode the PED bus.
Kyle
As a fan of the Red Sox, I have to say it is saddening in some ways to see two of the best players (Ortiz and Manny Ramirez) on the 2004 World Series team linked to PEDs by this report. At the same time, I would not be surprised to learn if there were other members of the team whose names are also on the PED list. To all the fans who I'm sure will come out of the woodwork and argue that this somehow cheapens the World Series rings that the Red Sox won during this time frame, I cannot really refute this argument completely. But part of me can't help but think that if we were to have the list in front of us, that there would likely be a representative from every team in baseball on that list.
Will we ever see the list appear fully? Somehow I doubt it, unless it gets to a point where credibility for the league gets to such a low that the Players Union just decides to release the list to the press. Part of the reason that we will be unlikely to see a leak of the list, in my opinion is the fact that whoever posts it will get the pants sued off them by an angry group of players who were informed that this list was going to be confidential. On this disappointing day for Red Sox fans, and once again for baseball fans overall, I can't help but look ahead to the coming weeks and months when I'm sure we will find what other players rode the PED bus.
Kyle
Neal Huntington, what are you doing?
Pirates GM Neal Huntington is going down a slippery slope. His team's opening day roster looked like this:
C - Ryan Doumit (Pirates)
1B - Adam LaRoche (Red Sox)
2B - Freddy Sanchez (Giants)
3B - Andy LaRoche (Pirates)
SS - Jack Wilson (Mariners)
LF - Nyjer Morgan (Nationals)
CF - Nate McLouth (Braves)
RF - Brandon Moss (Pirates)
http://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/PIT/opening.shtml
Obviously, the team the player is currently with is in parenthesis.
It's turned into a horrible version of VH1's "Where are they now"? The team they had on the field that day would not have won anything. However, they have stockpiled young players and ensured a losing team for a few years to come. However, once the next two to three years are over, did the stockpiling prove to be anything? Assuming they got good value for their trades, each player should be a slight upgrade, and that will get them to maybe 80 or so wins. However, their real future will be heavily dependent on drafting good pitching. If only they were slightly worse last year then THEY would be in the Stephen Strasburg predicament.
The Pirates have become America's Farm Team.
C - Ryan Doumit (Pirates)
1B - Adam LaRoche (Red Sox)
2B - Freddy Sanchez (Giants)
3B - Andy LaRoche (Pirates)
SS - Jack Wilson (Mariners)
LF - Nyjer Morgan (Nationals)
CF - Nate McLouth (Braves)
RF - Brandon Moss (Pirates)
http://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/PIT/opening.shtml
Obviously, the team the player is currently with is in parenthesis.
It's turned into a horrible version of VH1's "Where are they now"? The team they had on the field that day would not have won anything. However, they have stockpiled young players and ensured a losing team for a few years to come. However, once the next two to three years are over, did the stockpiling prove to be anything? Assuming they got good value for their trades, each player should be a slight upgrade, and that will get them to maybe 80 or so wins. However, their real future will be heavily dependent on drafting good pitching. If only they were slightly worse last year then THEY would be in the Stephen Strasburg predicament.
The Pirates have become America's Farm Team.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Small Preview:
With 42 days until the NFL Regular Season kicks off, I have decided to sound off on each of the 32 NFL teams with a focus on each one's Offense and Defense. Expect more on this project coming soon.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
MLB Hall of Fame Day
With a congratulations to Rickey Henderson and Jim Rice, who entered the MLB Hall of Fame today - I have been a baseball fan for 10 years. However, I always love speculating both youth and talent. This is a list for just myself, but these are guys who are going to wind up in the HOF, or at least on a ballot at some point who are personal favorites of mine. Here's the twist - they are all going to be under 28. (For football, I will do a similar list, but those guys will all be under 26).
Note: all players must have played in the Majors.
Position - Name (age)
Four man starting rotation:
SP - CC Sabathia (28)
SP - Justin Verlander (26)
SP - Tim Lincecum (25)
SP - Jered Weaver (26)
I just can't put in Joba or Hughes as much as I want to. Also, I am afraid Linceum will have the same problems Dontrelle Willis had. While I think Linecum has far better stuff, a lot of it is a direct result of his quirky windup and throwing motion. Major league hitters could figure it out in the coming years.
The lineup.
C - Joe Mauer (26)
1B - Justin Morneau (28)
2B - Dustin Pedroia (25)
SS - Hanley Ramirez (25)
3B - Evan Longoria (23)
OF - BJ Upton (24)
OF - Jay Bruce (22)
OF - Grady Sizemore (26)
Guys I just couldn't leave off the list:
1B - Miguel Cabrera (26)
3B - David Wright (26)
I'll be completely honest. There were two guys who seemed like LOCKS in their position, and they were Joe Mauer and Dustin Pedroia. They just know baseball. It's unbelievable watching them play, some players just have that natural look or ability. However, I have one player who has gotten a LOT of hype and I believe - barring a Mark Prior like career - will be fantastic.
If you haven't heard of him, you will:
Bryce Harper (16)
And of course the kid who is so good he can't even get a rookie contract:
SP - Stephen Strasburg (21)
Another joy of being a sports fan? Watching the young talent grow from a high school phenom, become a star in college then get drafted and earn the money by fantastic play. My favorite list is doing this for football though. I have played with scouts inc. for years and think Mel Kiper Jr. has the greatest job in the country. I'm going to give everyone a hint. The starting QB for the under 26 team? Matt Ryan.
Note: all players must have played in the Majors.
Position - Name (age)
Four man starting rotation:
SP - CC Sabathia (28)
SP - Justin Verlander (26)
SP - Tim Lincecum (25)
SP - Jered Weaver (26)
I just can't put in Joba or Hughes as much as I want to. Also, I am afraid Linceum will have the same problems Dontrelle Willis had. While I think Linecum has far better stuff, a lot of it is a direct result of his quirky windup and throwing motion. Major league hitters could figure it out in the coming years.
The lineup.
C - Joe Mauer (26)
1B - Justin Morneau (28)
2B - Dustin Pedroia (25)
SS - Hanley Ramirez (25)
3B - Evan Longoria (23)
OF - BJ Upton (24)
OF - Jay Bruce (22)
OF - Grady Sizemore (26)
Guys I just couldn't leave off the list:
1B - Miguel Cabrera (26)
3B - David Wright (26)
I'll be completely honest. There were two guys who seemed like LOCKS in their position, and they were Joe Mauer and Dustin Pedroia. They just know baseball. It's unbelievable watching them play, some players just have that natural look or ability. However, I have one player who has gotten a LOT of hype and I believe - barring a Mark Prior like career - will be fantastic.
If you haven't heard of him, you will:
Bryce Harper (16)
And of course the kid who is so good he can't even get a rookie contract:
SP - Stephen Strasburg (21)
Another joy of being a sports fan? Watching the young talent grow from a high school phenom, become a star in college then get drafted and earn the money by fantastic play. My favorite list is doing this for football though. I have played with scouts inc. for years and think Mel Kiper Jr. has the greatest job in the country. I'm going to give everyone a hint. The starting QB for the under 26 team? Matt Ryan.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Halladay, Wise, and My Top 3
I've been putting off writing about "why the Phillies need/don't need Roy Halladay" because it just seemed like such a cliche kind of thing to do. I mean, more than half the stories posted under the Phillies on BleacherReport this week had that as their basic argument.
Also, I didn't want to make my contributions to this blog ONLY about the Phillies.
But I'm going to do it anyway.
Let's get one thing straight: the Phillies do not need Halladay to win the N.L. East this year. At this point, there is absolutely no excuse for not winning the division. They have the talent, they have the experience, and, oh yeah, they have a 6 game lead. I'm not saying that its impossible for someone else (Atlanta has been looking good lately) to catch them, but if you are Ruben Amaro you can't be making this deal with an eye towards winning the division - you have to rely on the guys you already have to do that.
So that means this deal is all about the Play-offs.
If the Phillies go into the post-season right now, here's what their rotation looks like:
Hamels, Blanton, Happ, Moyer (or Pedro).
And here's how far Philly will go with that rotation:
The 2009 NLDS.
Consider that last year, when they won it all, Blanton was the #4 guy on the play-off rotation, and Hamels was pitching better than any other time in his career. Now, you're going to expect Blanton to be a #2 pitcher and a below-average Hamels to beat other team's aces.
On top of that, you're going to have an unproven rookie (Happ) and an over-the-hill veteran. Moyer got beat up in the play-offs last year, and I don't think Pedro is much of an upgrade there. Happ has been great so far, but so was Kyle Kendrick in 2007. Then, in Game 2 versus Colorado, Kendrick got shelled.
With this rotation, you have to pray Hamels can beat the other ace in Game 1, then you have to pray somebody can win another game in the series to force a Game 5, where you will be praying Hamels can beat the other ace again. Not a very favorable scenario if you want to repeat as World Champions.
Now, add Halladay, even if it means subtracting Happ, and you have this:
Halladay, Hamels, Blanton, Pedro/Moyer (or Happ, if you don't have to use him to get the Doctor).
That looks more like it. Halladay will favorably match up with any ace. Hamels, even if he doesn't get it together, is better than most #2 pitchers. And I like Blanton as a #3 much more than I do as a #2.
Giving up Happ (and Drabek) might sting a little, and it might hurt down the road, but this is a team that will have its entire core intact for the next two seasons. Adding Halladay for this year and 2010 means Philadelphia has a very good chance to be the first team to win three consecutive National League pennants since the NLCS began in 1969.
*****
DeWayne Wise's catch in the top of the ninth of Mark Buehrle's perfect game on Thursday has been broken down in probably every sports blog in the country, including this one.
My two cents: It's not the "greatest catch ever" as some have been saying. It might be the catch of the year, maybe.
What makes it so remarkable, for me, is not the catch itself (we've seen a lot of guys go over the wall and rob home runs), but what happened as Wise was coming down: the ball popped out of his glove. Even if he had dropped it at that point, he still would have saved a home run, and in normal circumstances that would be impressive enough. But he manages, as he is falling to the ground, to juggle the ball with his bare hand and hold on to it. That's why this was a great catch - most guys wouldn't be able to pull off both the over-the-wall move and the bare-handed dismount.
*****
Dave's last post got me thinking about my own sports history. So here's my Top 3 sporting events that I've seen live.
3. July 15, 2007 - The Phillies losing their 10,000th game. They are the only team in North American sports history to do that, so maybe it's not all positive, but it speaks to the longevity of the team. Well I was there for number 10,000. And yes, I applauded at the end of the game, just like most of the people in the crowd.
2. June 10, 2005 - Game 4 of the 2005 Calder Cup Finals, when the Philadelphia Phantoms closed out the Chicago Wolves to sweep the series and win the title. At the time, I was thinking: wow, if this is how people celebrate a minor league championship in this city, whats it going to be like when the Eagles or Phillies win one?
1. October 25, 2008 - Game 3 of the 2008 World Series. Carlos Ruiz walk-off 30-foot dribbler to score Eric Bruntlett against 5 infielders. After a two hour rain delay before the game. After Utley and Howard hit back-to-back homers. After Jamie Moyer pitched in front of his home town fans and looked like a young man. With my girlfriend and one of my best friends. Amazing night.
Honorable Mentions - I've seen two walk-off home runs in my lifetime. The first was Aaron Royster of the Reading Phillies (AA) against the Akron Aeros in 1997 (in the 12th inning). The second was David Wright against the Padres last year.
Also, I didn't want to make my contributions to this blog ONLY about the Phillies.
But I'm going to do it anyway.
Let's get one thing straight: the Phillies do not need Halladay to win the N.L. East this year. At this point, there is absolutely no excuse for not winning the division. They have the talent, they have the experience, and, oh yeah, they have a 6 game lead. I'm not saying that its impossible for someone else (Atlanta has been looking good lately) to catch them, but if you are Ruben Amaro you can't be making this deal with an eye towards winning the division - you have to rely on the guys you already have to do that.
So that means this deal is all about the Play-offs.
If the Phillies go into the post-season right now, here's what their rotation looks like:
Hamels, Blanton, Happ, Moyer (or Pedro).
And here's how far Philly will go with that rotation:
The 2009 NLDS.
Consider that last year, when they won it all, Blanton was the #4 guy on the play-off rotation, and Hamels was pitching better than any other time in his career. Now, you're going to expect Blanton to be a #2 pitcher and a below-average Hamels to beat other team's aces.
On top of that, you're going to have an unproven rookie (Happ) and an over-the-hill veteran. Moyer got beat up in the play-offs last year, and I don't think Pedro is much of an upgrade there. Happ has been great so far, but so was Kyle Kendrick in 2007. Then, in Game 2 versus Colorado, Kendrick got shelled.
With this rotation, you have to pray Hamels can beat the other ace in Game 1, then you have to pray somebody can win another game in the series to force a Game 5, where you will be praying Hamels can beat the other ace again. Not a very favorable scenario if you want to repeat as World Champions.
Now, add Halladay, even if it means subtracting Happ, and you have this:
Halladay, Hamels, Blanton, Pedro/Moyer (or Happ, if you don't have to use him to get the Doctor).
That looks more like it. Halladay will favorably match up with any ace. Hamels, even if he doesn't get it together, is better than most #2 pitchers. And I like Blanton as a #3 much more than I do as a #2.
Giving up Happ (and Drabek) might sting a little, and it might hurt down the road, but this is a team that will have its entire core intact for the next two seasons. Adding Halladay for this year and 2010 means Philadelphia has a very good chance to be the first team to win three consecutive National League pennants since the NLCS began in 1969.
*****
DeWayne Wise's catch in the top of the ninth of Mark Buehrle's perfect game on Thursday has been broken down in probably every sports blog in the country, including this one.
My two cents: It's not the "greatest catch ever" as some have been saying. It might be the catch of the year, maybe.
What makes it so remarkable, for me, is not the catch itself (we've seen a lot of guys go over the wall and rob home runs), but what happened as Wise was coming down: the ball popped out of his glove. Even if he had dropped it at that point, he still would have saved a home run, and in normal circumstances that would be impressive enough. But he manages, as he is falling to the ground, to juggle the ball with his bare hand and hold on to it. That's why this was a great catch - most guys wouldn't be able to pull off both the over-the-wall move and the bare-handed dismount.
*****
Dave's last post got me thinking about my own sports history. So here's my Top 3 sporting events that I've seen live.
3. July 15, 2007 - The Phillies losing their 10,000th game. They are the only team in North American sports history to do that, so maybe it's not all positive, but it speaks to the longevity of the team. Well I was there for number 10,000. And yes, I applauded at the end of the game, just like most of the people in the crowd.
2. June 10, 2005 - Game 4 of the 2005 Calder Cup Finals, when the Philadelphia Phantoms closed out the Chicago Wolves to sweep the series and win the title. At the time, I was thinking: wow, if this is how people celebrate a minor league championship in this city, whats it going to be like when the Eagles or Phillies win one?
1. October 25, 2008 - Game 3 of the 2008 World Series. Carlos Ruiz walk-off 30-foot dribbler to score Eric Bruntlett against 5 infielders. After a two hour rain delay before the game. After Utley and Howard hit back-to-back homers. After Jamie Moyer pitched in front of his home town fans and looked like a young man. With my girlfriend and one of my best friends. Amazing night.
Honorable Mentions - I've seen two walk-off home runs in my lifetime. The first was Aaron Royster of the Reading Phillies (AA) against the Akron Aeros in 1997 (in the 12th inning). The second was David Wright against the Padres last year.
Friday, July 24, 2009
I'm no Mark Buehrle...
I believe I have watched the various replays of Mark Buehrle's perfect game about a dozen times. The game itself was fantastic to watch, but not just for the game. Watching moments like these are for the fans as well. That is the joy of being a pure fan. So many people are getting caught up in steroids, but I'm just going to enjoy this is for what it is. If you haven't watch the final half inning. It is a moment in time. It can never be taken away.
This got me thinking about some of the best sports moments I have ever seen.
- The first football game I ever remember watching was Super Bowl XXVIII. This single game launched me into a level of sports fanaticism to which I have not come back from.
- The 1996 Jeffrey Maier catch against the Orioles which changed the dynamics of the entire playoffs. It was the moment that really defined the series. It didn't win it, but neither did LeBron's shot. Bill Buckner didn't LOSE the series, just botched a play. It's just a big piece of the puzzle.
- This one is more of a personal note, but when the Devils won the Stanley Cup on Jason Arnott's overtime winner. An honorable mention is when the Rangers won their cup in 1994 and Messier shaking the cup.
- When Jumbo Elliott caught the pass for the touchdown in the Monday Night Miracle.
- As much as I hate to say it, I remember when Louis Gonzalez hit that little blooper to left field. I refuse to put a link up to it.
- In an homage to my dad, I remember the Aaron Boone home run. For what it's worth, I have never seen the end of the 2004 or 2007 World Series' and I plan on keeping it that way. Regardless, they are big moments.
But the most important moment that I have experienced as a fan? This has nothing to do with sports itself.
Jack Buck's poem right after 9/11.
All this said, it is very important to remember the moments in sports that matter to you. When it really comes down to it - sports is a diversion and a method of entertainment. I am glad to be a fanatic for the teams I love and it will continuously provide us with moments that are going to remain in our memories for years to come.
This got me thinking about some of the best sports moments I have ever seen.
- The first football game I ever remember watching was Super Bowl XXVIII. This single game launched me into a level of sports fanaticism to which I have not come back from.
- The 1996 Jeffrey Maier catch against the Orioles which changed the dynamics of the entire playoffs. It was the moment that really defined the series. It didn't win it, but neither did LeBron's shot. Bill Buckner didn't LOSE the series, just botched a play. It's just a big piece of the puzzle.
- This one is more of a personal note, but when the Devils won the Stanley Cup on Jason Arnott's overtime winner. An honorable mention is when the Rangers won their cup in 1994 and Messier shaking the cup.
- When Jumbo Elliott caught the pass for the touchdown in the Monday Night Miracle.
- As much as I hate to say it, I remember when Louis Gonzalez hit that little blooper to left field. I refuse to put a link up to it.
- In an homage to my dad, I remember the Aaron Boone home run. For what it's worth, I have never seen the end of the 2004 or 2007 World Series' and I plan on keeping it that way. Regardless, they are big moments.
But the most important moment that I have experienced as a fan? This has nothing to do with sports itself.
Jack Buck's poem right after 9/11.
All this said, it is very important to remember the moments in sports that matter to you. When it really comes down to it - sports is a diversion and a method of entertainment. I am glad to be a fanatic for the teams I love and it will continuously provide us with moments that are going to remain in our memories for years to come.
Perfect Games and Other Items of Note
First off I would like to give well deserved congratulations to Mark Buehrle for his Perfect Game yesterday afternoon. As far as Perfect Games go, Buehrle's was only the 17th in regular season history and 18th overall - as you might already know Don Larsen's is still the only postseason Perfect Game in MLB history. What makes Buehrle's feat even more special, is that he is one of only 28 pitchers with multiple no-nos, and the sixth with at least 2 no-hitters and a Perfect Game. Pretty amazing huh? As well as Buehrle pitched, it was perhaps the miracle catch by his teammate Dewayne Wise that made it memorable. If you haven't seen the catch (shame on you) click on the link here. I probably watched that catch at least 20 times last night; I'm still in awe that Wise managed to not drop it. Barring some other miracle catch, this will be the catch of the year, and perhaps in the running for one of the greatest catches of all time. As a matter of fact this is currently the ESPN poll question of the day.
Miscellaneous items of interest:
Baseball:
After a nearly 3 hour rain delay the Yankees managed to extend their winning streak to 7 games. It hasn't been pretty this past week, but teams been getting the job done both starters and bullpen alike. The series against Baltimore featured a couple 2-1 nailbiters as well as a Hideki Matsui walk-off winner. Last nights win also allowed my Yanks to take a 2.5 game lead in the division as Boston had an off day.
Look out - The Philadelphia Phillies have won 15 of their last 17 games, and with the addition of Pedro Martinez and possibly Roy Halladay, the defending champs are beginning to run away with the NL East and are becoming the team to beat in the National League.
Basketball:
- I know I've said basketball isn't necessarily my area of expertise, but what's with this LeBron getting dunked on hype?? Watch the video here and tell me where that is because I couldn't even discern LeBron from the other guys. So Crawford dunked on him...big deal why all the cover up? LAME.
Football:
- Aside from the beginning of camps (and Brett Favre's ongoing indecisiveness) football news is rather slow unless you're Michael Vick. The next few days will decide his football fate, and while the possibility of him becoming reinstated by Roger Goodell seems imminent, there is still a potential 4 game suspension looming. The other question that needs to be looked at is which team would sign him? Vick just got out of prison, is likely out of football shape, and if reinstated, would miss the first 4 games of the season anyway. It's a major risk for any team to take. According to ESPN.com at least a few teams have outright declared they want nothing to do with Vick, including the Giants, Jets, Rams, and 49ers. Amazing considering 3 out of those 4 teams will have their QBs battling it out in the preseason and in camps. The UFL seems to be the only real option for Michael Vick at the present moment, at least until he proves himself mature and responsible enough to rejoin the NFL.
Hope you enjoyed my post, again feel free to comment on anything I've written!
- Ash
This just in! Sportscenter has just announced that Matt Holliday will go to the Cardinals in a 4 player deal with the A's....looks like Pujols has some protection. Yikes, look out National League. I'll say this, with Holliday in the 3-hole he gives Albert an even more legit shot at the Triple Crown. I would not be surprised if he gets it now.
Miscellaneous items of interest:
Baseball:
After a nearly 3 hour rain delay the Yankees managed to extend their winning streak to 7 games. It hasn't been pretty this past week, but teams been getting the job done both starters and bullpen alike. The series against Baltimore featured a couple 2-1 nailbiters as well as a Hideki Matsui walk-off winner. Last nights win also allowed my Yanks to take a 2.5 game lead in the division as Boston had an off day.
Look out - The Philadelphia Phillies have won 15 of their last 17 games, and with the addition of Pedro Martinez and possibly Roy Halladay, the defending champs are beginning to run away with the NL East and are becoming the team to beat in the National League.
Basketball:
- I know I've said basketball isn't necessarily my area of expertise, but what's with this LeBron getting dunked on hype?? Watch the video here and tell me where that is because I couldn't even discern LeBron from the other guys. So Crawford dunked on him...big deal why all the cover up? LAME.
Football:
- Aside from the beginning of camps (and Brett Favre's ongoing indecisiveness) football news is rather slow unless you're Michael Vick. The next few days will decide his football fate, and while the possibility of him becoming reinstated by Roger Goodell seems imminent, there is still a potential 4 game suspension looming. The other question that needs to be looked at is which team would sign him? Vick just got out of prison, is likely out of football shape, and if reinstated, would miss the first 4 games of the season anyway. It's a major risk for any team to take. According to ESPN.com at least a few teams have outright declared they want nothing to do with Vick, including the Giants, Jets, Rams, and 49ers. Amazing considering 3 out of those 4 teams will have their QBs battling it out in the preseason and in camps. The UFL seems to be the only real option for Michael Vick at the present moment, at least until he proves himself mature and responsible enough to rejoin the NFL.
Hope you enjoyed my post, again feel free to comment on anything I've written!
- Ash
This just in! Sportscenter has just announced that Matt Holliday will go to the Cardinals in a 4 player deal with the A's....looks like Pujols has some protection. Yikes, look out National League. I'll say this, with Holliday in the 3-hole he gives Albert an even more legit shot at the Triple Crown. I would not be surprised if he gets it now.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Buehrle Perfect Game
Some quick hitters about Mark Buehrle's perfect game, the 16th in MLB history, and the first since Randy Johnson was perfect against the Braves on May 18, 2004.
- He is the 2nd player in Chicago White Sox history to throw a perfect game. The first? Charlie Robertson on April 30, 1922 against the Detroit Tigers.
- Buehrle also threw a no-hitter on April 18, 2007, so he is the sixth pitcher in history to have both a no-hitter and a perfect game. He joins Cy Young, Addie Joss, Jim Bunning, Sandy Koufax, and Randy Johnson as the only members of that club.
- 11 of the 16 perfect games in history (including Buehrle's) have been pitched at home.
- Dodger Stadium has been the site of two perfect games (Koufax in 1965 and Dennis Martinez in 1991), while old Yankee Stadium saw three perfectos (Don Larson in 1956, David Wells in 1998, and Devid Cone in 1999).
- 10 of the 16 perfect games in history have been in day games. Even if you consider the fact that before the 1960s, a lot more games were played during the day, 6 of the 12 perfect games since 1960 have been during the day. Three of the last four (Wells, Cone, and Buehrle) have been during the day. Does this mean something?
- More people have orbited the Moon (24) than have thrown perfect games.
- He is the 2nd player in Chicago White Sox history to throw a perfect game. The first? Charlie Robertson on April 30, 1922 against the Detroit Tigers.
- Buehrle also threw a no-hitter on April 18, 2007, so he is the sixth pitcher in history to have both a no-hitter and a perfect game. He joins Cy Young, Addie Joss, Jim Bunning, Sandy Koufax, and Randy Johnson as the only members of that club.
- 11 of the 16 perfect games in history (including Buehrle's) have been pitched at home.
- Dodger Stadium has been the site of two perfect games (Koufax in 1965 and Dennis Martinez in 1991), while old Yankee Stadium saw three perfectos (Don Larson in 1956, David Wells in 1998, and Devid Cone in 1999).
- 10 of the 16 perfect games in history have been in day games. Even if you consider the fact that before the 1960s, a lot more games were played during the day, 6 of the 12 perfect games since 1960 have been during the day. Three of the last four (Wells, Cone, and Buehrle) have been during the day. Does this mean something?
- More people have orbited the Moon (24) than have thrown perfect games.
First Pitches
Since writing intros seems to be the thing to do on here, I'll add one of my own.
For much of the past year, I had the undeserved luxury of living with the founders of this blog (306 shall live on), and it is because of them that I have been given the opportunity to contribute here. I will be trying to add my thoughts at least once a week, though my incredibly horrible internet connection in my apartment in Rochester might impede my efforts until I move back to my parent's house in mid-August.
However, if you're reading this, you probably care less about my struggles with public wireless access than you do about sports, so here's what you can probably expect from me:
I generally stay in-season when it comes to sports, so for the time being I'm all about baseball (helped by the fact that it's also my favorite), and contrary to what many will tell you - football season DOES NOT begin until the week after Labor Day. Preseason games are basically a waste of time and money, and don't even get me started on the excessive coverage that training camps get.
After baseball, my other major interests fall in the following order: NCAA Basketball, Pro Football, and Soccer. The NBA does occasionally gets me interested (like during last year's play-offs, which were the best in a long time), and honestly the NHL would be a lot higher on my radar if I could ever actually find a game on the television. However, I'm not one of the lucky 0.005% of people in this country who get Versus, so I've just kind of tuned out the NHL.
Besides, with baseball, football, and college basketball, you have a full year of all the good sports and none of the occasionally crappy ones. Baseball and football overlap nicely, as do football and college basketball. The NCAA title game is usually within a week of opening day, so that's just about perfect too.
Soccer, in one form or another, runs pretty much year-round, so you'll be getting some of that too. MLS is only mildly enjoyable, but with the U.S. gearing up for the World Cup next summer, I'll try to bring some perspective on the final 5 qualifying games that are scheduled from September through November.
Of course, being a Philly fan will color my opinions on certain things, but I promise to do my best to keep things objective (and occasionally objectivist - just because Ayn Rand is awesome).
So without going into too much detail, I'll gather my crystal ball and glass of water to give you some of the headlines you'll see between now and the end of the baseball season:
- Phils cruise to 3rd consecutive NL East title.
- Pujols goes 4-for-4 on season's final day to win batting title, triple crown, and division.
- Cubs Fall Short: finish one game back of Cards.
- Role Reversal; Yanks enter ALCS as underdogs to Red Sox. (god save us from ESPN's over-hype that will result, but it's gonna happen)
- Phillies, Dodgers re-match in NLCS.
- World Series Game 6 to be played for the first time since 2003. (but I'm not telling who wins)
And finally, just because everyone on here seems to be ragging on curling, I feel like I have to defend it. It's actually a lot more fun than it seems, and even if it isn't the most exciting spectator sport, watching the last few ends of a world-class match is pretty enjoyable. This past year, the world championship match between Scotland and Canada came down to the last end, where Scotland scored three points over the last two ends to come from behind and win.
For much of the past year, I had the undeserved luxury of living with the founders of this blog (306 shall live on), and it is because of them that I have been given the opportunity to contribute here. I will be trying to add my thoughts at least once a week, though my incredibly horrible internet connection in my apartment in Rochester might impede my efforts until I move back to my parent's house in mid-August.
However, if you're reading this, you probably care less about my struggles with public wireless access than you do about sports, so here's what you can probably expect from me:
I generally stay in-season when it comes to sports, so for the time being I'm all about baseball (helped by the fact that it's also my favorite), and contrary to what many will tell you - football season DOES NOT begin until the week after Labor Day. Preseason games are basically a waste of time and money, and don't even get me started on the excessive coverage that training camps get.
After baseball, my other major interests fall in the following order: NCAA Basketball, Pro Football, and Soccer. The NBA does occasionally gets me interested (like during last year's play-offs, which were the best in a long time), and honestly the NHL would be a lot higher on my radar if I could ever actually find a game on the television. However, I'm not one of the lucky 0.005% of people in this country who get Versus, so I've just kind of tuned out the NHL.
Besides, with baseball, football, and college basketball, you have a full year of all the good sports and none of the occasionally crappy ones. Baseball and football overlap nicely, as do football and college basketball. The NCAA title game is usually within a week of opening day, so that's just about perfect too.
Soccer, in one form or another, runs pretty much year-round, so you'll be getting some of that too. MLS is only mildly enjoyable, but with the U.S. gearing up for the World Cup next summer, I'll try to bring some perspective on the final 5 qualifying games that are scheduled from September through November.
Of course, being a Philly fan will color my opinions on certain things, but I promise to do my best to keep things objective (and occasionally objectivist - just because Ayn Rand is awesome).
So without going into too much detail, I'll gather my crystal ball and glass of water to give you some of the headlines you'll see between now and the end of the baseball season:
- Phils cruise to 3rd consecutive NL East title.
- Pujols goes 4-for-4 on season's final day to win batting title, triple crown, and division.
- Cubs Fall Short: finish one game back of Cards.
- Role Reversal; Yanks enter ALCS as underdogs to Red Sox. (god save us from ESPN's over-hype that will result, but it's gonna happen)
- Phillies, Dodgers re-match in NLCS.
- World Series Game 6 to be played for the first time since 2003. (but I'm not telling who wins)
And finally, just because everyone on here seems to be ragging on curling, I feel like I have to defend it. It's actually a lot more fun than it seems, and even if it isn't the most exciting spectator sport, watching the last few ends of a world-class match is pretty enjoyable. This past year, the world championship match between Scotland and Canada came down to the last end, where Scotland scored three points over the last two ends to come from behind and win.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Baseball's second half pt 2
So this post took longer to get down than I anticipated.
While we were sleeping:
The Red Sox went from appearing to run away with the division to being down a game to the Empire.
Marc Anthony is a part owner of the Dolphins
Michael Vick is a free man.
This post is going to be relatively short.
The Phillies have won 10 straight, do they even NEED Halladay? Think of it this way, they have to be one of the top two contenders to win the NL - the other team is the Dodgers, but how well can their pitching hold up? The Phillies play very much like an AL team.
The Cubs can do this, I really believe they can play mediocre baseball and make it to the playoffs. If Soriano can manage to hit again, and Big Z can avoid a mental breakdown - they have a chance.
Here's to Tom Watson, he came in second in the British. I honestly keep forgetting who won and quite frankly I couldn't care less. It's great to see the old white guy do well, because what this does - in my opinion - is shows that golf can matter even without Tiger Woods or Mickelson. The sport will need a bit of that, proof that it can be exciting. Yes. Golf. Exciting. Deal with it.
Michael Vick is back...to society. Not yet football, but he will be soon. With it sounding like Goodell is going to bring Vick to playing status, he has yet to determine when this will happen. In my unprofessional opinion, the NFL is a talent based league, and if you don't have the skill to play - you aren't going to play. Athletes are a commodity. It is not a privilege to play in the NFL. It's earned, but not a privilege. If you were built like one of those guys, you should be able to play. If you are working on computers in a town in California, and you violate a law - you are not going to be barred from your job for it. Sure you'll go to jail for it, but you'll come back and be allowed to work again. (After reading that, I am actually not so sure I'm convinced with my own argument).
Regardless, Vick will find a home either in the NFL or in the UFL - which I hope he gets in the UFL. It is an upstart league and will do some things correctly that the NFL can follow. It's also a cheap alternative - especially considering the economy, availability and fun factor.
Two major rules the UFL has that the NFL does not? It will allow a college-style overtime and end zone celebrations.
I know Eric is still loving baseball season (he is a Philly guy)
I know Kyle couldn't care less because he's from Boston and is fine either way
I know John wants football back (and hockey for that matter)
And I'll be honest with ya, I'm NOT looking forward to Hockey season. But good lord I cannot wait for Football season to start.
Ashley will give her thoughts on the season soon.
- Dave
While we were sleeping:
The Red Sox went from appearing to run away with the division to being down a game to the Empire.
Marc Anthony is a part owner of the Dolphins
Michael Vick is a free man.
This post is going to be relatively short.
The Phillies have won 10 straight, do they even NEED Halladay? Think of it this way, they have to be one of the top two contenders to win the NL - the other team is the Dodgers, but how well can their pitching hold up? The Phillies play very much like an AL team.
The Cubs can do this, I really believe they can play mediocre baseball and make it to the playoffs. If Soriano can manage to hit again, and Big Z can avoid a mental breakdown - they have a chance.
Here's to Tom Watson, he came in second in the British. I honestly keep forgetting who won and quite frankly I couldn't care less. It's great to see the old white guy do well, because what this does - in my opinion - is shows that golf can matter even without Tiger Woods or Mickelson. The sport will need a bit of that, proof that it can be exciting. Yes. Golf. Exciting. Deal with it.
Michael Vick is back...to society. Not yet football, but he will be soon. With it sounding like Goodell is going to bring Vick to playing status, he has yet to determine when this will happen. In my unprofessional opinion, the NFL is a talent based league, and if you don't have the skill to play - you aren't going to play. Athletes are a commodity. It is not a privilege to play in the NFL. It's earned, but not a privilege. If you were built like one of those guys, you should be able to play. If you are working on computers in a town in California, and you violate a law - you are not going to be barred from your job for it. Sure you'll go to jail for it, but you'll come back and be allowed to work again. (After reading that, I am actually not so sure I'm convinced with my own argument).
Regardless, Vick will find a home either in the NFL or in the UFL - which I hope he gets in the UFL. It is an upstart league and will do some things correctly that the NFL can follow. It's also a cheap alternative - especially considering the economy, availability and fun factor.
Two major rules the UFL has that the NFL does not? It will allow a college-style overtime and end zone celebrations.
I know Eric is still loving baseball season (he is a Philly guy)
I know Kyle couldn't care less because he's from Boston and is fine either way
I know John wants football back (and hockey for that matter)
And I'll be honest with ya, I'm NOT looking forward to Hockey season. But good lord I cannot wait for Football season to start.
Ashley will give her thoughts on the season soon.
- Dave
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Gettin' this show on the road
Hi all, its Ash the resident Sports Gal (and I don't care if I steal Bill Simmons' wife's name, he's retired now), checking in with my first contribution to We Are the Hecklers! As it's been stated by my co-bloggers this is a blog is where we rant and rave about all things sports.
To sort of kick-start my blogging adventures here are some things you can look forward to in the coming weeks as well as my team interests:
Baseball:
- Die-hard Yankees fan since birth, and grateful to have witnessed four championships in 5 years! Those were the days....but I digress. I'm also looking forward to a helluva second half and a wild division race, should be one to remember. Aside from discussing the Yanks, I will look at the AL playoff race and which team(s) I think will make a run at their respective divisions and wild card.
Football:
- Probably my first love in all of sports - I proudly support the Miami Dolphins: the greatest football team ;-)
No bias there of course, but I'm looking forward to reading comments and such seeing as I'm in the middle of New York and New England our much hated rivals so bring it! With training camps opening all over the NFL I'm gettin' ready for some football. One of the major topics of discussion I would like to touch upon, and one that has bothered me for a while now, is how the season has been dragged out in recent years.
Hockey:
- Yes I am a Rangers fan, true blue...which is how I'd describe myself after every season, but hey, if and when they do win another cup it'll be as sweet as '94. I also must agree with Dave...Sidney Crosby is good, but not Gretzky great, and I actually think Ovechkin is a better pure scorer than Sid. There won't be too much to discuss about hockey in the coming weeks so I shall likely leave it our til end of August/September once preseason starts rolling around.
As my co-bloggers have said, no sport is left out in our blogs (again except maybe curling) but these are my three main areas of expertise so I'll be focusing more on them for the time being. Until next time, and please comment on anything we've said, or with any ideas of future blogs we'd be happy to hear them!
Ash
To sort of kick-start my blogging adventures here are some things you can look forward to in the coming weeks as well as my team interests:
Baseball:
- Die-hard Yankees fan since birth, and grateful to have witnessed four championships in 5 years! Those were the days....but I digress. I'm also looking forward to a helluva second half and a wild division race, should be one to remember. Aside from discussing the Yanks, I will look at the AL playoff race and which team(s) I think will make a run at their respective divisions and wild card.
Football:
- Probably my first love in all of sports - I proudly support the Miami Dolphins: the greatest football team ;-)
No bias there of course, but I'm looking forward to reading comments and such seeing as I'm in the middle of New York and New England our much hated rivals so bring it! With training camps opening all over the NFL I'm gettin' ready for some football. One of the major topics of discussion I would like to touch upon, and one that has bothered me for a while now, is how the season has been dragged out in recent years.
Hockey:
- Yes I am a Rangers fan, true blue...which is how I'd describe myself after every season, but hey, if and when they do win another cup it'll be as sweet as '94. I also must agree with Dave...Sidney Crosby is good, but not Gretzky great, and I actually think Ovechkin is a better pure scorer than Sid. There won't be too much to discuss about hockey in the coming weeks so I shall likely leave it our til end of August/September once preseason starts rolling around.
As my co-bloggers have said, no sport is left out in our blogs (again except maybe curling) but these are my three main areas of expertise so I'll be focusing more on them for the time being. Until next time, and please comment on anything we've said, or with any ideas of future blogs we'd be happy to hear them!
Ash
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Baseball's second half pt 1
All right, there are a few things that I have on my mind in regards to the second half of the baseball season which begins playing on Thursday the 16th:
- Doc Halladay
- The NL could be the most interesting league in recent years
- Why Manny is getting a lot of attention
- Owners are ridiculous
The Big Trade Wind
First off, the Doc Halladay story and the NL East could be a linked story. Look, Hallady already has 10 wins, and looks like he's ready for another ten. The day of the all star game, the Phillies are atop the NL East, and if they got Halladay, they would pretty much run away with the division. However, if you say a top flight starter is good for about 7-10 wins, an number two starter would get you 6-8 etc. you are adding a LOT of wins to the Phillies.
But here's the deal, the Mets are the other team to watch out for. Sure the Phillies finally got their coveted fourth starter in Pedro [note, I love how the link is still for the Mets. Sorry John] who is MILES above anyone else in that position. I wouldn't say that is another handful of wins, but it certainly prevents losses (if that makes any sense; but just ask Putz, he might be able to tell you). Regardless, the Mets actually assemble a Baseball team, they can surge. They too could fight for Roy, but given their financial situation and farm team depth, not likely. For the record, I believe the Mets will pull their usual late July push.
Oh yeah, forgot about Atlanta just like everyone else does every year. I don't have much to say about them.....they are very good.
In regards to the rest of the NL, let's put it this way: if the Phillies get Halladay, they are the team to beat. Halladay --> Hammels and then a very good veteran staff behind them with a potentially 'excited' Lidge closing out? Lidge seems to do far better in save situations, and on teams that are winning. Funny story, it's very similar to M. Rivera's troubles in non-save situations. It must be a closers mentality.
If the Mets were to land Halladay, they would leapfrog to first or second and stay there. After that, I've heard that St. Louis would be a great suitor for him should the money appear. Think about this: Chris Carpenter, Adam Wainwright and Roy Halladay...(Halladay might pitch better in the NL, no one knows.) They would obliterate their way to a division title. Same thing goes with the Cubs who are bankrupt and unlikely to get Halladay. The Dodgers have been whispered among teams who are doing just fine without Halladay, but will whisper back.
Likely scenario at this point? Philadelphia or bust. Halladay is a committed guy, and hopefully aware that he can make the team a real threat to repeat.
Why Manny is getting a free pass...sort of...
After listening to more of Tim Kurkijan talk about Manny Ramirez, a horrible thought came over me: I know why Manny is getting a free pass. The press is certainly getting on him about what happened, but the fans came out in full force for him in the minor leagues. But why celebrate a cheat?
As a Jets fan, I remember the former commander once saying, "You play to win the game." Apparently the cost was his own dignity and 50 days off. Yet, the fan support is a proven sign of this. Yes, you play to win the game, but as fans we cheer for that jerk no one else except our own fan base likes. Want proof?
Some hate-links of great athletes:
LeBron James - Throwing this out there...he's pretty good.
Tiger Woods - If you think Tiger is bad for the game, ask me: why do you think golf is getting the attention from the casual fan?
He said that fans go to these games to cheer for their team. It's the bottom of the 9th, 2 on and 2 out. Down by 3 with the bases loaded and the dreadlocked Manny is coming to the plate. What do you do? You aren't turning off the TV, if anything - you call your friends and say "You have to see this." Television revenue right there, and fans are NOT heading to the gates at that time. You go to the game to see a win, it's entertainment. You paid a lot of money to see the game. In this economic climate, you take joy where you can get it. That's what it comes down to...dollar value entertainment.
"I was at the game where Alex Rodriguez hit the walk-off grand slam against the Indians two years ago!"
"Dude that's awesome. I hate A-Rod though"
"Yeah, me too, but I was at that game!"
That's why the Dodger fans will love him. Everyone else will hate him, but we all will watch.
- Doc Halladay
- The NL could be the most interesting league in recent years
- Why Manny is getting a lot of attention
- Owners are ridiculous
The Big Trade Wind
First off, the Doc Halladay story and the NL East could be a linked story. Look, Hallady already has 10 wins, and looks like he's ready for another ten. The day of the all star game, the Phillies are atop the NL East, and if they got Halladay, they would pretty much run away with the division. However, if you say a top flight starter is good for about 7-10 wins, an number two starter would get you 6-8 etc. you are adding a LOT of wins to the Phillies.
But here's the deal, the Mets are the other team to watch out for. Sure the Phillies finally got their coveted fourth starter in Pedro [note, I love how the link is still for the Mets. Sorry John] who is MILES above anyone else in that position. I wouldn't say that is another handful of wins, but it certainly prevents losses (if that makes any sense; but just ask Putz, he might be able to tell you). Regardless, the Mets actually assemble a Baseball team, they can surge. They too could fight for Roy, but given their financial situation and farm team depth, not likely. For the record, I believe the Mets will pull their usual late July push.
Oh yeah, forgot about Atlanta just like everyone else does every year. I don't have much to say about them.....they are very good.
In regards to the rest of the NL, let's put it this way: if the Phillies get Halladay, they are the team to beat. Halladay --> Hammels and then a very good veteran staff behind them with a potentially 'excited' Lidge closing out? Lidge seems to do far better in save situations, and on teams that are winning. Funny story, it's very similar to M. Rivera's troubles in non-save situations. It must be a closers mentality.
If the Mets were to land Halladay, they would leapfrog to first or second and stay there. After that, I've heard that St. Louis would be a great suitor for him should the money appear. Think about this: Chris Carpenter, Adam Wainwright and Roy Halladay...(Halladay might pitch better in the NL, no one knows.) They would obliterate their way to a division title. Same thing goes with the Cubs who are bankrupt and unlikely to get Halladay. The Dodgers have been whispered among teams who are doing just fine without Halladay, but will whisper back.
Likely scenario at this point? Philadelphia or bust. Halladay is a committed guy, and hopefully aware that he can make the team a real threat to repeat.
Why Manny is getting a free pass...sort of...
After listening to more of Tim Kurkijan talk about Manny Ramirez, a horrible thought came over me: I know why Manny is getting a free pass. The press is certainly getting on him about what happened, but the fans came out in full force for him in the minor leagues. But why celebrate a cheat?
As a Jets fan, I remember the former commander once saying, "You play to win the game." Apparently the cost was his own dignity and 50 days off. Yet, the fan support is a proven sign of this. Yes, you play to win the game, but as fans we cheer for that jerk no one else except our own fan base likes. Want proof?
Some hate-links of great athletes:
LeBron James - Throwing this out there...he's pretty good.
Tiger Woods - If you think Tiger is bad for the game, ask me: why do you think golf is getting the attention from the casual fan?
He said that fans go to these games to cheer for their team. It's the bottom of the 9th, 2 on and 2 out. Down by 3 with the bases loaded and the dreadlocked Manny is coming to the plate. What do you do? You aren't turning off the TV, if anything - you call your friends and say "You have to see this." Television revenue right there, and fans are NOT heading to the gates at that time. You go to the game to see a win, it's entertainment. You paid a lot of money to see the game. In this economic climate, you take joy where you can get it. That's what it comes down to...dollar value entertainment.
"I was at the game where Alex Rodriguez hit the walk-off grand slam against the Indians two years ago!"
"Dude that's awesome. I hate A-Rod though"
"Yeah, me too, but I was at that game!"
That's why the Dodger fans will love him. Everyone else will hate him, but we all will watch.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
The Other Blogger
Hey all, welcome to We Are The Hecklers, Kyle here, one of the other contributors to this blog. Myself and other members of the blog hope you enjoy this joint venture we're putting forward, which I'm sure will veer to every sports topic short of curling. Why not, maybe we'll even throw curling in.
Here's an idea of some of the things I'll be blogging about over the next few weeks, with the qualifier that I am a Boston fan, so expect to read a good amount about the Red Sox, Celtics, and Patriots:
Soccer- Wait, the US beat Spain? But then blew a 3 goal lead to Brazil? Can this team be any more of an enigma if it tries? Only time will tell, but this soccer fan is looking forward to the World Cup even more now.
Baseball- A great end to the first half of the season for the Red Sox, but can they be even better with Jed Lowrie and Mike Lowell coming back from the DL and a reborn John Smoltz?
- I'll also take a look at what is shaping up to be a great race in the AL East between the Yankees, Sox, and Tampa Bay, and honestly handicap who I think will take it all in the division.
Football- Seriously who else is excited for football season? I cannot wait for training camp to finally get under way. Once we get a little closer I'll blog about what I see for the coming year.
Basketball- Ah my bread and butter basketball. This is the area that I'll be blogging most in once the season starts, expect a look soon at the off season moves of the Cleveland Cavaliers, and what I think it will do for their chances of a title in 2009-2010.
- I'll also spend some time looking at what trades I think were over-hyped by the media this off season and what moves that didn't get much press will end up helping teams the most.
So that's what's on my mind right now, I'll be filling the moderate role on the blog. And as my co-blogger Dave said, leave your thoughts in the comments and I'll try to get back to you as soon as possible!
Kyle
Here's an idea of some of the things I'll be blogging about over the next few weeks, with the qualifier that I am a Boston fan, so expect to read a good amount about the Red Sox, Celtics, and Patriots:
Soccer- Wait, the US beat Spain? But then blew a 3 goal lead to Brazil? Can this team be any more of an enigma if it tries? Only time will tell, but this soccer fan is looking forward to the World Cup even more now.
Baseball- A great end to the first half of the season for the Red Sox, but can they be even better with Jed Lowrie and Mike Lowell coming back from the DL and a reborn John Smoltz?
- I'll also take a look at what is shaping up to be a great race in the AL East between the Yankees, Sox, and Tampa Bay, and honestly handicap who I think will take it all in the division.
Football- Seriously who else is excited for football season? I cannot wait for training camp to finally get under way. Once we get a little closer I'll blog about what I see for the coming year.
Basketball- Ah my bread and butter basketball. This is the area that I'll be blogging most in once the season starts, expect a look soon at the off season moves of the Cleveland Cavaliers, and what I think it will do for their chances of a title in 2009-2010.
- I'll also spend some time looking at what trades I think were over-hyped by the media this off season and what moves that didn't get much press will end up helping teams the most.
So that's what's on my mind right now, I'll be filling the moderate role on the blog. And as my co-blogger Dave said, leave your thoughts in the comments and I'll try to get back to you as soon as possible!
Kyle
Away we go
Ah, we have entered the wonderful world of blogging. As the headline says, we say what we think. There is a lot of stuff going out there in the world, and there are sponsors, advertisers, and various people meant to bring you down, but when all is said and done, to each his own. Yes, selfish as it sounds, we are going to say what we feel like. The smallest stadiums in the NFL are approximately 63,000. That's a lot of people, and we're just some of those screaming idiots who care enough to write about it.
Down to business.
These are OUR thoughts and no one else can tell us what to say or think, and that is the beauty of it all. The first amendment allowed for things like these, but forget politics. This is a sports blog.
So, here's just some random things about me and then some thoughts passing through my head.
I love video games, mike and mike (and will frequently reference it), I have mlb.tv and watch games a lot. I actually watch the all star games. I watch a lot of sportscenter and put it down as my favorite tv show for my high school superlative.
Soccer:
- We lost that game against Brazil didn't we? All right, let's just remain apathetic about it until we blow it in the World Cup. No other opinions necessary.
Hockey:
-Marty Brodeur is the best goalie of all time. Yes, I'm a Devils fan, and I know no one who reads this is.
-I can't stand Sidney Crosby, and he's great and all but shut up. He's not Wayne Gretzky.
Basketball:
-I'm a Nets fan, but they suck so onto the Knicks...I sure do hope they get LeBron, but come on, he's not going to be the first billion dollar athlete. Tiger woods has that locked down.
Golf:
-Could not have cared LESS until Tiger Woods came along. Yeah, I'm a fan of his but I like the sport too.
-I honestly hope he beats Jack Nickalus' record and gets like 20 majors. He can do it, it's not like he's getting any younger but he's allowed to get older. It's golf. Oh yeah, a black president and a black golfer dominating the sport? What the hell happened?
Baseball:
- I am a Yankees fan but seriously, a lot of Yankee fans need to get over themselves. I'm sick of Yankee fans who expect to win. My favorite part of being a Yankees fan was watching Ian Kennedy, Joba and Hughes grow up. Sure it may not have worked out but it was fun.
- I am in a VERY small minority here but I think pitchers shouldn't hit. It is dumb. They can get injured.
Football:
- I love football so much. I'm a Jets fan, a huge Jets fan, but boy do I just love the sport in general. I like watching film, watching those "Edge Matchup" shows at 7 in the morning on Sundays. I don't go to many games, but this will be my main area of expertise.
- I can't wait.
No, don't expect the rest of the posts to be like this, it's just an introduction.
Oh yeah, one thing, I don't want to deal with emails, so if you have a response, want to tell me I'm stupid for being a Devils fan, hate me for being a Yankees fan, or remind me that I have rookie QB Mark Sanchez starting this season, well then comment, I'll try to answer everything as best I can assuming anyone actually replies.
Dave (the main administrator)
Down to business.
These are OUR thoughts and no one else can tell us what to say or think, and that is the beauty of it all. The first amendment allowed for things like these, but forget politics. This is a sports blog.
So, here's just some random things about me and then some thoughts passing through my head.
I love video games, mike and mike (and will frequently reference it), I have mlb.tv and watch games a lot. I actually watch the all star games. I watch a lot of sportscenter and put it down as my favorite tv show for my high school superlative.
Soccer:
- We lost that game against Brazil didn't we? All right, let's just remain apathetic about it until we blow it in the World Cup. No other opinions necessary.
Hockey:
-Marty Brodeur is the best goalie of all time. Yes, I'm a Devils fan, and I know no one who reads this is.
-I can't stand Sidney Crosby, and he's great and all but shut up. He's not Wayne Gretzky.
Basketball:
-I'm a Nets fan, but they suck so onto the Knicks...I sure do hope they get LeBron, but come on, he's not going to be the first billion dollar athlete. Tiger woods has that locked down.
Golf:
-Could not have cared LESS until Tiger Woods came along. Yeah, I'm a fan of his but I like the sport too.
-I honestly hope he beats Jack Nickalus' record and gets like 20 majors. He can do it, it's not like he's getting any younger but he's allowed to get older. It's golf. Oh yeah, a black president and a black golfer dominating the sport? What the hell happened?
Baseball:
- I am a Yankees fan but seriously, a lot of Yankee fans need to get over themselves. I'm sick of Yankee fans who expect to win. My favorite part of being a Yankees fan was watching Ian Kennedy, Joba and Hughes grow up. Sure it may not have worked out but it was fun.
- I am in a VERY small minority here but I think pitchers shouldn't hit. It is dumb. They can get injured.
Football:
- I love football so much. I'm a Jets fan, a huge Jets fan, but boy do I just love the sport in general. I like watching film, watching those "Edge Matchup" shows at 7 in the morning on Sundays. I don't go to many games, but this will be my main area of expertise.
- I can't wait.
No, don't expect the rest of the posts to be like this, it's just an introduction.
Oh yeah, one thing, I don't want to deal with emails, so if you have a response, want to tell me I'm stupid for being a Devils fan, hate me for being a Yankees fan, or remind me that I have rookie QB Mark Sanchez starting this season, well then comment, I'll try to answer everything as best I can assuming anyone actually replies.
Dave (the main administrator)
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