With the recent uncovering of Roger Clemens' affair with country singer/felon Mindy McCready, the seven time Cy Young Award winner looks as bad as ever. It's reported that McCready was 15 years old when the two met. Is he an idiot?
The sad part about this is that if Clemens would have just denied the Mitchell Report, instead of secretly taping a phone conversation with Brian McNamee, taking McNamee to congress and lying, this whole saga would have never taken place.
Clemens would have a better chance to be inducted into the Hall of Fame if he had not dug himself into a bottomless pit of lies. Of course Clemens didn't anticipate McNamee having old syringes and paraphernalia and exposing other lies.
What I'm getting at (for the millionth time) is that it's Clemens' fault for everything that has happened since the Mitchell Report was released.
Now getting back to the affair:
Wow! I know this can't be admitted as evidence against Clemens but he should be ashamed of himself. 15!!?? Watch out Miley Cyrus!!
Even if they didn't have sex until she was 18, why is he chilling with a teenager? How often does he do that? Has he ever stolen a girlfriend from one of his kids? Why would he cheat on his hot wife?
Mindy isn't even that good looking!! Mediocre at best. And Clemens was a 28 year old ace for the Red Sox. He could have gotten any woman he wanted, but he chose a 15 year old girl. This is mind boggling.
A lot of questions have been left unanswered.
Fortunately, one question has been answered.
Is Roger Clemens an idiot?
The answer is a big, fat 'YES'.
-Max Caster
Over the Ropes
Saturday 10-11pm on http://mywcwp.com/
http://overtheropes.mypodcast.com/
http://myspace.com/overtheropes
The New Sportswire
Thursday 9-10pm on http://mywcwp.com/
http://sportswireonwcwp.mypodcast.com/
P.S. Speaking of Miley Cyrus:
How can she say she was manipulated to take that creepy ass photo, in Vanity Fair, when her dad AND agent/mom were there? I predict she'll be drugged out by 2013.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Sunday, April 27, 2008
New York Giants Draft Review
With "Mr. Irrevelent" finally being called, the 2008 NFL Draft has finally come and gone. I love the NFL Draft and all the hype before hand. Having said that, let's take a look at all the defending Champs picks...
Round 1 - Pick 31 - Kenny Phillips, S - Miami - With the departure of Gibril Wilson to the Raiders, safety was one of the biggest needs for the Giants coming into this weekend. People really believed Phillips or Tyrell Johnson (who went to Minny in the 2nd round) would be the pick here. Personally I like the pick of Phillips here. He faced much better competition throughout his collegiate career than Johnson who played at Arkansas St. Scouts believe he has the athleticism to get out in coverage against tight ends and slot receivers but also physical enough to play exceptional against the run. The Giants secondary in the past have been known to be weak tacklers (with the exception of Wilson) so this should play out to be a beneficial move for the Giants.
Round 2 - Pick 63 - Terrell Thomas, CB - USC - Jerry Reese continued to bulk up the secondary with this pick here. R Dubz McQuarters who is the most inconsistent player the Giants have won't start for them and Corey Webster also had his bright moments here and there (none bigger than in Green Bay). Thomas started 28 out of 39 career games at USC with 8 career interceptions. I like the pick but don't love it. If cornerback was the pick overall, I would have rather the Giants gone with Charles Godfrey out of Iowa who went four picks into the second day of the draft.
Round 3 - Pick 95 - Mario Manningham, WR - Michigan - I absolutely love this pick by the Giants for several reasons. Let me just say that I did call this pick in front of Nick Malone and Max Caster on Sunday morning. Personally, I do not think Manningham should have dropped all the way down to 95. All the receivers dropped significantly (none in the 1st round) but I was shocked when Manningham was not one of the 10 selected in round 2. Manningham fits perfectly with the Giants. They have now a premiere starter in Eli Manning, they have a solid #1 in Plaxico, and Manningham could be mentored by former Michigan wide reciever Amani Toomer, who will be 34 years of age at the start of the season. I see Manningham being more of a #2 option when Toomer leaves more so than last year's second round pick, Steve Smith. Steve Smith played great in the postseason. He had 14 receptions for 152 yards. But on the season, he missed 11 of the Giants 16 games due to injuries and only totaled 8 receptions. I do not see him more than a #3 option (which is fine). The receiver position for the Giants is skinny, Tyree, who will always be a #1 in my book, obviously cannot be counted on for a full year. Neither can Sinorice Moss. I don't expect a hell of a lot productivity out of Manningham next season but I do see the potential to blossom nicely.
Round 4 - Pick 123 - Bryan Kehl, OLB - BYU - OLB was also another major need in this draft with the loss of Kawika Mitchell to the Bills. Kehl could possibly be a sleeper and a steal in this draft. He totaled 208 total tackles in his collegiate career. Some believe he is so versatile that he can switch from the outside to the inside. When and if Strahan retires and Kiwanuka goes back to his normal position, Kehl can just be the missing piece to go into his spot.
Round 5 - Pick 165 - Jonathan Goff, LB - Vanderbilt - I do not know anything about this guy. Frankly, I am not sure why they took him because of the selection of Kehl the round before. We will see how this pick turns out
Round 6 - Pick 198 - Andre' Woodson, QB - Kentucky - Many thought Woodson was going to be a 1st round pick midway through this past college season. However, a decline in play, and that funky throwing motion set Woodson wayyyy back. I was so shocked that he was on the board I was thrilled when the Giants picked him. He just really will not have an opportunity to play with Mr. Manning in front of him. They also signed David Carr in the offseason.
Round 6 - Pick 199 - Robert Henderson, DE - Southern Miss - All I have to say about this pick is....YOU CAN NEVER HAVE ENOUGH PASS RUSH!!!!! (wink wink Tom Brady)
Hopefully the Giants go 7/7 this year...and once again Jerry Reese is my hero.
-Matt Soldano
Off the Glass. Wednesdays @ 9-10pm only on www.mywcwp.com
Round 1 - Pick 31 - Kenny Phillips, S - Miami - With the departure of Gibril Wilson to the Raiders, safety was one of the biggest needs for the Giants coming into this weekend. People really believed Phillips or Tyrell Johnson (who went to Minny in the 2nd round) would be the pick here. Personally I like the pick of Phillips here. He faced much better competition throughout his collegiate career than Johnson who played at Arkansas St. Scouts believe he has the athleticism to get out in coverage against tight ends and slot receivers but also physical enough to play exceptional against the run. The Giants secondary in the past have been known to be weak tacklers (with the exception of Wilson) so this should play out to be a beneficial move for the Giants.
Round 2 - Pick 63 - Terrell Thomas, CB - USC - Jerry Reese continued to bulk up the secondary with this pick here. R Dubz McQuarters who is the most inconsistent player the Giants have won't start for them and Corey Webster also had his bright moments here and there (none bigger than in Green Bay). Thomas started 28 out of 39 career games at USC with 8 career interceptions. I like the pick but don't love it. If cornerback was the pick overall, I would have rather the Giants gone with Charles Godfrey out of Iowa who went four picks into the second day of the draft.
Round 3 - Pick 95 - Mario Manningham, WR - Michigan - I absolutely love this pick by the Giants for several reasons. Let me just say that I did call this pick in front of Nick Malone and Max Caster on Sunday morning. Personally, I do not think Manningham should have dropped all the way down to 95. All the receivers dropped significantly (none in the 1st round) but I was shocked when Manningham was not one of the 10 selected in round 2. Manningham fits perfectly with the Giants. They have now a premiere starter in Eli Manning, they have a solid #1 in Plaxico, and Manningham could be mentored by former Michigan wide reciever Amani Toomer, who will be 34 years of age at the start of the season. I see Manningham being more of a #2 option when Toomer leaves more so than last year's second round pick, Steve Smith. Steve Smith played great in the postseason. He had 14 receptions for 152 yards. But on the season, he missed 11 of the Giants 16 games due to injuries and only totaled 8 receptions. I do not see him more than a #3 option (which is fine). The receiver position for the Giants is skinny, Tyree, who will always be a #1 in my book, obviously cannot be counted on for a full year. Neither can Sinorice Moss. I don't expect a hell of a lot productivity out of Manningham next season but I do see the potential to blossom nicely.
Round 4 - Pick 123 - Bryan Kehl, OLB - BYU - OLB was also another major need in this draft with the loss of Kawika Mitchell to the Bills. Kehl could possibly be a sleeper and a steal in this draft. He totaled 208 total tackles in his collegiate career. Some believe he is so versatile that he can switch from the outside to the inside. When and if Strahan retires and Kiwanuka goes back to his normal position, Kehl can just be the missing piece to go into his spot.
Round 5 - Pick 165 - Jonathan Goff, LB - Vanderbilt - I do not know anything about this guy. Frankly, I am not sure why they took him because of the selection of Kehl the round before. We will see how this pick turns out
Round 6 - Pick 198 - Andre' Woodson, QB - Kentucky - Many thought Woodson was going to be a 1st round pick midway through this past college season. However, a decline in play, and that funky throwing motion set Woodson wayyyy back. I was so shocked that he was on the board I was thrilled when the Giants picked him. He just really will not have an opportunity to play with Mr. Manning in front of him. They also signed David Carr in the offseason.
Round 6 - Pick 199 - Robert Henderson, DE - Southern Miss - All I have to say about this pick is....YOU CAN NEVER HAVE ENOUGH PASS RUSH!!!!! (wink wink Tom Brady)
Hopefully the Giants go 7/7 this year...and once again Jerry Reese is my hero.
-Matt Soldano
Off the Glass. Wednesdays @ 9-10pm only on www.mywcwp.com
Jets 1st Day Draft Review
No cute opening paragraphs this time. Lets get right down to this.
Round 1 - #6 Overall - Vernon Gholston
I can't really blame the Jets for taking him. They need someone to replace Bryan Thomas at hybrid linebacker. This guy is a freak. 6'3", 266 lbs. and a 4.66 40 yard dash. Some of the negatives on him is that he's relatively new to football and he doesn't go all out on every down. But he's an athlete, and you can't teach athleticism.
Ideally, I would have liked to see the Jets trade down a few slots in the 1st round, get a late round pick and take a cornerback in the mid-1st round. Leodis McKelvin, Aqib Talib, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Mike Jenkins were all on the board for a while. They have nobody to play opposite Revis in the defensive secondary.
Round 1 - 30th Overall - Dustin Keller
I can see why the Jets would take him. He's compared to tight ends like Dallas Clark. But Chris Baker is very overlooked and underrated. He's an above average tight end. I guess you should never speak out against the coach. Keller, from Purdue, ran a 4.55 40 yard dash.
I really wanted them to keep their second round pick and take a wide out. Every receiver was available in the second round. They did not address the need in free agency and I'm not confident in Brad Smith.
Overall, it's a solid 1st day, but I'm not necessarily happy with it.
Max Caster
R.I.P. Sean Bell
Round 1 - #6 Overall - Vernon Gholston
I can't really blame the Jets for taking him. They need someone to replace Bryan Thomas at hybrid linebacker. This guy is a freak. 6'3", 266 lbs. and a 4.66 40 yard dash. Some of the negatives on him is that he's relatively new to football and he doesn't go all out on every down. But he's an athlete, and you can't teach athleticism.
Ideally, I would have liked to see the Jets trade down a few slots in the 1st round, get a late round pick and take a cornerback in the mid-1st round. Leodis McKelvin, Aqib Talib, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Mike Jenkins were all on the board for a while. They have nobody to play opposite Revis in the defensive secondary.
Round 1 - 30th Overall - Dustin Keller
I can see why the Jets would take him. He's compared to tight ends like Dallas Clark. But Chris Baker is very overlooked and underrated. He's an above average tight end. I guess you should never speak out against the coach. Keller, from Purdue, ran a 4.55 40 yard dash.
I really wanted them to keep their second round pick and take a wide out. Every receiver was available in the second round. They did not address the need in free agency and I'm not confident in Brad Smith.
Overall, it's a solid 1st day, but I'm not necessarily happy with it.
Max Caster
R.I.P. Sean Bell
Friday, April 25, 2008
Boom...!
John Madden can't hate on Frank Caliendo's Madden impression ever again. Any Brett Favre remark is now acceptable because the recently retired quarterback will grace the cover of Madden NFL 2009.
What will this mean for Favre? The 'Madden Curse' is prominent as ever after Vince Young fulfilled the prophecy last year and former cover boy Shaun Alexander's career went down the tubes, after appearing on the 2007 Madden cover, that he was just released from Seattle.
With Favre out of football, it will be interesting to see how the curse will effect him. Here are some predictions:
-After realizing Aaron Rodgers sucks, the Packers will search for and discover a loophole in Favre's contract, saying that he cannot retire. The team will give him a choice, either to come back and save their season or be sued for millions.
-Brett Favre's tractor will catch a flat tire.
-Like in the terrible Bernie Mac movie 'Mr. 3000', an error will be found in the scoring of Favre's career statistics, which will leave him with only 417 touchdowns; three less than Dan Marino. Favre will come back to the league to try and regain the all-time lead, but will come up just short because he was trying to teach Greg Jennings a lesson in teamwork.
-At the ceremony for retiring Favre's number 4, the Packers will accidently spell his name wrong.
-During a sideline interview with Suzy Kolber, Brett Favre will vomit.
-John Madden will park the Madden bus in front of Favre's house. He will sing 'You are Everything' by Marvin Gaye and Diana Ross (one of my favorites) over the P.A. until Favre agrees to return to football.
Hey Soldano, the score was 11 to 5, not 4, and I didn't contest most of your jumpers.
Max Caster
Over The Ropes
Saturdays from 10-11pm on WCWP
The NEW! Sportswire
Thursdays from 9-10pm on WCWP
What will this mean for Favre? The 'Madden Curse' is prominent as ever after Vince Young fulfilled the prophecy last year and former cover boy Shaun Alexander's career went down the tubes, after appearing on the 2007 Madden cover, that he was just released from Seattle.
With Favre out of football, it will be interesting to see how the curse will effect him. Here are some predictions:
-After realizing Aaron Rodgers sucks, the Packers will search for and discover a loophole in Favre's contract, saying that he cannot retire. The team will give him a choice, either to come back and save their season or be sued for millions.
-Brett Favre's tractor will catch a flat tire.
-Like in the terrible Bernie Mac movie 'Mr. 3000', an error will be found in the scoring of Favre's career statistics, which will leave him with only 417 touchdowns; three less than Dan Marino. Favre will come back to the league to try and regain the all-time lead, but will come up just short because he was trying to teach Greg Jennings a lesson in teamwork.
-At the ceremony for retiring Favre's number 4, the Packers will accidently spell his name wrong.
-During a sideline interview with Suzy Kolber, Brett Favre will vomit.
-John Madden will park the Madden bus in front of Favre's house. He will sing 'You are Everything' by Marvin Gaye and Diana Ross (one of my favorites) over the P.A. until Favre agrees to return to football.
Hey Soldano, the score was 11 to 5, not 4, and I didn't contest most of your jumpers.
Max Caster
Over The Ropes
Saturdays from 10-11pm on WCWP
The NEW! Sportswire
Thursdays from 9-10pm on WCWP
Seriously Josh, What Are Ya Doin???
So today on the Michael Irvin radio show, Josh Howard of the Dallas Mavericks admitted to smoking marijuana quite frequently during the offseason. He made it clear though that he does not partake in any sort of drug-related activities during the season. Either way, I have a major problem with this...
As a basketball enthusiast I am actually quite disgusted with Howard's admittance. The NBA is a league that has suffered major image problems. From Rasheed Wallace and Damon Stoudamire's use of weed to the Malace and the Palace, Commissioner David Stern has been doing his absolute best to try and fix how his league was perceived. He brought all along the dress code which eliminated basically the Iverson look of jewlery, baggy jeans, throwback jersey, and fitted cap. He was fearful that African Americans were being labeled as thugs by the white corporate officials who either own the team or share some sort of piece of a franchise. Not only them but the NBA did not want the younger generation to see how these guys were acting. I agree with all of Stern's moves.
So now comes the year of 2008. The Year of the Celtics and of the Western Conference. You got all this amazing young talent such as Lebron, Chris Paul, Dwight Howard, Deron Williams. You have Kobe Bryant encompassing a complete role reversal as he has taken the Lakers to the best record in the West. All real negative outside stories were absent from the NBA. Pacman Jones alone was making the NBA look like the Modern Day Saints. But if your David Stern today, the news out of Josh Howard's mouth is something you definitely did not want to hear, especially in the midst of what has been a fantastic first round.
Basically my only question is why? Why is Josh Howard coming out with this information when first, his team is down 2-0 to the Hornets and can very well be swept. Why create this distraction? This is part of what Howard had to say:
". . . What I was stating was just [in response to] a random question he asked me about the marijuana use. I just let him know that most of the players in the league use marijuana and I have and do partake in smoking weed in the offseason sometimes and that's my personal choice and my personal opinion. But I don't think that's stopping me from doing my job."
Howard has now created a bubble surrounding the NBA and everyone is going to want to know who "most of the players" are. First of all, they are breaking the law and secondly, there could be some sort of repercussions through the league or the franchise itself. Howard is once again putting the image of the league on thin ice because most of the league is black and there is an unfortunate inconceivable stereotype in society about blacks and drug use. It will be very interesting to see how this will play out and the type of media coverage it does receive.
-Matt Soldano
(Off the Glass - only on www.mywcwp.com)
P.S. Yesterday I participated in Mike T's 1-on-1 basketball tournament and if you were listening in to the Sportswire you may have heard the calling of myself vs. Max Caster. Nonetheless, I came out victorious 11-4 in a classic beatdown!
As a basketball enthusiast I am actually quite disgusted with Howard's admittance. The NBA is a league that has suffered major image problems. From Rasheed Wallace and Damon Stoudamire's use of weed to the Malace and the Palace, Commissioner David Stern has been doing his absolute best to try and fix how his league was perceived. He brought all along the dress code which eliminated basically the Iverson look of jewlery, baggy jeans, throwback jersey, and fitted cap. He was fearful that African Americans were being labeled as thugs by the white corporate officials who either own the team or share some sort of piece of a franchise. Not only them but the NBA did not want the younger generation to see how these guys were acting. I agree with all of Stern's moves.
So now comes the year of 2008. The Year of the Celtics and of the Western Conference. You got all this amazing young talent such as Lebron, Chris Paul, Dwight Howard, Deron Williams. You have Kobe Bryant encompassing a complete role reversal as he has taken the Lakers to the best record in the West. All real negative outside stories were absent from the NBA. Pacman Jones alone was making the NBA look like the Modern Day Saints. But if your David Stern today, the news out of Josh Howard's mouth is something you definitely did not want to hear, especially in the midst of what has been a fantastic first round.
Basically my only question is why? Why is Josh Howard coming out with this information when first, his team is down 2-0 to the Hornets and can very well be swept. Why create this distraction? This is part of what Howard had to say:
". . . What I was stating was just [in response to] a random question he asked me about the marijuana use. I just let him know that most of the players in the league use marijuana and I have and do partake in smoking weed in the offseason sometimes and that's my personal choice and my personal opinion. But I don't think that's stopping me from doing my job."
Howard has now created a bubble surrounding the NBA and everyone is going to want to know who "most of the players" are. First of all, they are breaking the law and secondly, there could be some sort of repercussions through the league or the franchise itself. Howard is once again putting the image of the league on thin ice because most of the league is black and there is an unfortunate inconceivable stereotype in society about blacks and drug use. It will be very interesting to see how this will play out and the type of media coverage it does receive.
-Matt Soldano
(Off the Glass - only on www.mywcwp.com)
P.S. Yesterday I participated in Mike T's 1-on-1 basketball tournament and if you were listening in to the Sportswire you may have heard the calling of myself vs. Max Caster. Nonetheless, I came out victorious 11-4 in a classic beatdown!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
The Best Job in the World
Isiah Thomas went from having the worst job ever to having the best job in the world in just a matter of days. Once the GM, coach and President of the abismal Knicks, now a 'consultant' to the new president Donnie Walsh, Isiah Thomas still lacks an official job title. He is also barred from talking to any of the Knicks players.
So the question is: What exactly does Isiah do?
I'm assuming little to nothing. I bet he doesn't even have a cubicle in the Knicks offices. And he's owed 18 millions dollars. He wont quit. Jim Dolan wont fire him. Looks like Isiah lost the battle but won the war.
If that's the case, Isiah Thomas is the luckiest man in New York.
I'm jealous.
Other Notes
-Brendan Haywood needs to be suspended for his flagrant foul on LeBron James last night. Not because LeBreezy is the face of the NBA, but because Haywood did not go for the ball at all. It's not like it'll alter the results of the Cavs-Wizards series. Washington was going to lose anyway.
-There has been a lot of contreversy surrounding flopping in the NBA. I've heard arguments that flops should be called a technical foul by the referees. I see it differently. Flopping is a strategy. If you can act well, you can get the call, even if there was no contact. It's not illegal. It's not unsportsmanlike. It's frustrating. But it's a strategy that should be allowed. I wish more people could appreciate the flop like I do.
-I'm not sure about Mark Jackson as the Knicks coach. Of course he's one of the most loved Knicks of all time, he's young and has a good basketball mind, but he's never held a coaching job. I'd feel a little more comfortable if they hired someone who has coached before. But then they'll just continue the NBA's recycling of fired coaches.
-Game 1: Spurs vs. Suns is going to be hard to top by any other game this post-season. Ginobli = 6th Man of the Decade.
- Tune into The Sportswire every Thursday from 9-10pm on WCWP for updates in the 'Winner gets Dinner' Contest. If you don't know, me, Nick Malone and Max Geller have filled out our NBA Playoffs Brackets. The person with the most amount of correct picks will get a free dinner at the expense of the other two contestants. I've got my eyes set on Arby's.
Later haters.
Max Caster
Over the Ropes
Saturdays from 10-11pm on http://mywcwp.com/
http://overtheropes.mypodcast.com/
The Sportswire
Thursdays from 9-10pm on http://mywcwp.com/
http://sportswireonwcwp.mypodcast.com/
So the question is: What exactly does Isiah do?
I'm assuming little to nothing. I bet he doesn't even have a cubicle in the Knicks offices. And he's owed 18 millions dollars. He wont quit. Jim Dolan wont fire him. Looks like Isiah lost the battle but won the war.
If that's the case, Isiah Thomas is the luckiest man in New York.
I'm jealous.
Other Notes
-Brendan Haywood needs to be suspended for his flagrant foul on LeBron James last night. Not because LeBreezy is the face of the NBA, but because Haywood did not go for the ball at all. It's not like it'll alter the results of the Cavs-Wizards series. Washington was going to lose anyway.
-There has been a lot of contreversy surrounding flopping in the NBA. I've heard arguments that flops should be called a technical foul by the referees. I see it differently. Flopping is a strategy. If you can act well, you can get the call, even if there was no contact. It's not illegal. It's not unsportsmanlike. It's frustrating. But it's a strategy that should be allowed. I wish more people could appreciate the flop like I do.
-I'm not sure about Mark Jackson as the Knicks coach. Of course he's one of the most loved Knicks of all time, he's young and has a good basketball mind, but he's never held a coaching job. I'd feel a little more comfortable if they hired someone who has coached before. But then they'll just continue the NBA's recycling of fired coaches.
-Game 1: Spurs vs. Suns is going to be hard to top by any other game this post-season. Ginobli = 6th Man of the Decade.
- Tune into The Sportswire every Thursday from 9-10pm on WCWP for updates in the 'Winner gets Dinner' Contest. If you don't know, me, Nick Malone and Max Geller have filled out our NBA Playoffs Brackets. The person with the most amount of correct picks will get a free dinner at the expense of the other two contestants. I've got my eyes set on Arby's.
Later haters.
Max Caster
Over the Ropes
Saturdays from 10-11pm on http://mywcwp.com/
http://overtheropes.mypodcast.com/
The Sportswire
Thursdays from 9-10pm on http://mywcwp.com/
http://sportswireonwcwp.mypodcast.com/
Monday, April 21, 2008
The Big Stein wants a calzone!!!
Hank Steinbrenner is calling for Joba Chamberlain to be brought out of the pen and into the starting rotation. This is what he said:
"I want [Chamberlain] as a starter and so does everyone else, including him, and that is what we are working toward and we need him there now. There is no question about it, you don't have a guy with a 100-mile-per-hour fastball and keep him as a setup guy. You just don't do that. You have to be an idiot to do that."
I think Hank is right that Joba should be moved, but not right now. It doesn't make sense at this moment. Girardi has him on an innings restriction. I wont be good for Joe because he had an idea of how he wanted to use Joba before the season even started. Girardi is a new manager and I dont expect his club to win over 95 games this year. I know managers are paid to make decisions on the move, but I believe Girardi knows what he's doing.
Also, it's early in the year. It's no time to be panicking. Yes, I know Hughes and Kennedy haven't recorded a win yet and Mussina is terrible but it's not time to shake things up. The Yanks had 9 wins and 11 losses 20 games in last year. Slightly worse than this year, and they still made the post-season. Now, I don't think the 2008 Yankees are a playoff team, but they'll be better.
So Hank, chill out. Drink some tea. Go get a calzone. Play some golf. Just chill out. You're getting everyone riled up because you decided to air folks out in the media. It's a bad sign when you and you're General Manager are arguing. Joba will be moved when the time is right.
Damn pollen got me sneezing everywhere. I hope everyone else enjoys spring more than I do.
Max Caster
Over the Ropes
Saturday nights from 10-11pm on http://mywcwp.com
http://overtheropes.mypodcast.com
The Sportswire
Thursday nights from 9-10pm on http://mywcwp.com
http://sportswireonwcwp.mypodcast.com
"I want [Chamberlain] as a starter and so does everyone else, including him, and that is what we are working toward and we need him there now. There is no question about it, you don't have a guy with a 100-mile-per-hour fastball and keep him as a setup guy. You just don't do that. You have to be an idiot to do that."
I think Hank is right that Joba should be moved, but not right now. It doesn't make sense at this moment. Girardi has him on an innings restriction. I wont be good for Joe because he had an idea of how he wanted to use Joba before the season even started. Girardi is a new manager and I dont expect his club to win over 95 games this year. I know managers are paid to make decisions on the move, but I believe Girardi knows what he's doing.
Also, it's early in the year. It's no time to be panicking. Yes, I know Hughes and Kennedy haven't recorded a win yet and Mussina is terrible but it's not time to shake things up. The Yanks had 9 wins and 11 losses 20 games in last year. Slightly worse than this year, and they still made the post-season. Now, I don't think the 2008 Yankees are a playoff team, but they'll be better.
So Hank, chill out. Drink some tea. Go get a calzone. Play some golf. Just chill out. You're getting everyone riled up because you decided to air folks out in the media. It's a bad sign when you and you're General Manager are arguing. Joba will be moved when the time is right.
Damn pollen got me sneezing everywhere. I hope everyone else enjoys spring more than I do.
Max Caster
Over the Ropes
Saturday nights from 10-11pm on http://mywcwp.com
http://overtheropes.mypodcast.com
The Sportswire
Thursday nights from 9-10pm on http://mywcwp.com
http://sportswireonwcwp.mypodcast.com
What We've Learned So Far
The first weekend of the NBA Playoffs are now complete. 80% of the teams that win Game 1 go on to win the series. So I guess for the Celtics, Magic, 76ers, Cavaliers, Lakers, Hornets, Jazz, and Spurs, this particular stat should give them a vote of confidence. However, after watching most if not all of the playoff action on Saturday and Sunday there are many things I took away from each series. Some were expected, others were not. Some were shocking and other were just brutally disappointing. With that being said, let's take a look at the Eastern Conference playoffs first:
(8) Hawks vs. (1) Celtics - After a 104-81 beatdown, the Hawks appear to just not have a chance in this series. As much as I love the Hawks, and if you've been listening in to "Off the Glass" I preached to my pals Gabe and Mike T that the Hawks would lock up the 8 seed due to their big 3. Of course, a combination of Joe Johnson, Josh Smith, and Mike Bibby seems like NBDL Talent when you put them up against "The Boston Three Party" of KG, Paul Pierce aka The Truth, and Mr. He Got Game himself, Ray Allen. They combined for 50 of Boston's 104 points and also got help from possible Most Improved Player, Rajon Rondo who chipped in 15 points, 9 assists, and 6 boards. As much as I would love to give Atlanta a game in this series, there is just no way the Celtics and that defense will allow that to happen. Boston wins the next three, by double digits, and goes on for the sweep.
(5) Wizards vs (4) Cavaliers - In my opinion, this was the most intriguing match-up in the East for several reasons. First off, the Wizards have been bounced by the Cavs in two straight seasons in the first round and have created quite a bitter rivalry in the regular season. Consequently, Wizards swingman, Deshawn Stevenson decided to call Lebron James "overrated." Hmmmm, not exactly the right person to tickle Mr. Stevenson. As if we couldn't get enough of the trash talking, Gilbert Arenas claimed the Cavs would be in trouble and that this year would be different. Unfortunately, the Wizards were one of the more disappointing teams in Game 1. I think the Wizards could win this series but they went on such a drought in the final 5 minutes of the game that Lebron was able to steamroll past the entire Washington D and come out with a 93-86 victory. However, I do like Washington in this series because of the talent they have. Arenas, Jamison, Butler, and Stevenson can all ball and they just have to all consistently perform well together to finally get their revenge. In one of the more thrilling series in Round 1, I like Washington in 7.
(6) Raptors vs. (3) Magic - We saw Superman Dwight Howard at his best yesterday as he dropped 25 points, pulled down 22 boards, and blocked 5 shots. He basically manhandled his All-Star opponent Chris Bosh who managed 21 points but on 4-11 shooting and only accumulated 6 rebounds. What stuck out to me most in this game was the depth of the Magic team in the starting lineup. All the starters scored 13 or more points with Turkoglu, Jameer Nelson, and D-Howard scoring over 20. The Magic made 13 out of 29 3's (45%) and got 9 3's in the 1st qtr! Toronto made it interesting in the 4th when they cut it down to 5, but eventually ran out of gas as they lost 114-100. This Orlando team is extremely dangerous, especially when Rashard Lewis is on his game. If you combine him with Howard, Hedo, and an improving Jameer Nelson, this Magic team may just be able to challenge the Celtics. I like the Magic to win Game 2 in Orlando and eventually win the series in 5 as the Raptors steal one up North.
(7) 76ers vs. (2) Pistons - In only the "real" upset of Game 1, the 76ers somehow came out with a 90-86 victory on the road against Detroit. Mike T and I both believed that Philly had a chance to make this series interesting and possibly have it go to a Game 6. Philly has been one of the best teams since the All-Star Break thanks to the superb play of Andre Miller and Andre Iguodala. However, does anyone really think Detroit is going to lose this series? I mean Rasheed Wallace himself has more playoff experience than the entire Sixer roster. This game was filled with missed opportunities for both teams. None bigger than Sheed's missed lay-up at the end of the game in a hope to tie the game with 7 seconds left. Philly played great defense holding the Pistons to just 39% shooting and really improved their shot selection after trailing 51-38 at halftime. I think Philly has what it takes to really compete with Detroit. However, I just cannot pick against Mr. Big Shot, Chauncey Billups and Rip Hamilton. I like Detroit in a squeaker as they win in 7 games.
Now to the West:
(8) Nuggets vs. (1) Lakers - Wow just think, the Nuggets and the Hawks are each respectively 8 seeds...Anyway's so this was the game I was waiting for. Eagerly sitting and watching each Laker game, and week after week talking about them with the gang, the true value of the Pau Gasol acquisition beamed from my television screen and hit me square in the face. 36 , 16, 8??? Who knew Pau could put up those numbers. Combine that with Kobe's 32 on a terrible shooting day and Lamar Odom's 17 points and 14 rebounds, your looking at the team to beat in the West. Ok, I realize Denver plays negative defense and perhaps they should use a bit more of this to be a bit more physical on D:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=-lttgZwiinQ
Ok, seriously what the hell was that???
Anyway, I digress.
The Nuggets really had no shot after the 1st half and Kobe decided it was time to score more than 4 points. Until the Nuggets are able to maintain the same level of focus that matches their talent, they are just going to be another team with two dynamic scorers and not a championship caliber team. Unfortunately, for Denver, that time won't come this year. Lakers win in 4.
(5) Jazz vs. (4) Rockets - The Jazz looked pretty good against Houston on Saturday in a 93-82 victory. Houston was playing without Rafer Alston which really puts them in a deeper hole against Deron Williams, who is a top 5 point guard as it already stands. Williams had his way with the Rockets scoring 20 points and dishing out 10 assists. The Jazz were also supported with a surprise 21 from AK47, who let me go on the record, I cannot stand. I think the Rockets really match up poorly with the Jazz. Without Yao Ming, they do not have an interior force to go up against Carlos Boozer. I previously mentioned the hole at the point guard spot for Houston and Tracy McGrady can be inconsistent especially if Kirilenko is on him who is one of the best perimeter defenders in the league. Unfortunately, I think this is another one and out for T-Mac in his career as the Rockets lose in 5.
(6) Suns vs. (3) Spurs - In what was the best game of the weekend by far, the San Antonio Spurs survived a 117-115 double overtime victory against their hated rivals. The main reason in acquiring Shaquille O'Neal in the midpoint of the season was to be able to beat the Spurs at some point in the season. Well Shaq only played 30 minutes due to constant foul trouble and ended up with 11 points and 5 rebounds. Tim Duncan had the same amount of three-pointers made as I did this entire year and somehow was able to drain one at the end of the 1st overtime. Duncan ended up with 40 points and 15 rebounds. (and this was a down year for him...) I cannot wait to see how the rest of this series plays out. It will surely be compelling and one of the best all the way through. Just one thing to think about, had they not made the trade for Shaq, Shawn Marion would have been guarding Ginobli on the final possession of the game. Hmmmmm....Anyway, I like the Suns to finally get past San Antonio in 7 games.
(7) Mavericks vs. (2) Hornets - Okay, let me go on the record as saying I am not a firm believer that the MVP should be based or at least influential on what a player does in the playoffs. If that were the case, Dirk would not have won last year and Chris Paul just may have locked up the award this year. After leading his team to a storming comeback against the Mavs on Saturday and posting up 35 points and dishing out 10 dimes, CP3 has made his case as the best PG in the world. The Mavericks were up comfortably in the 1st half until the Mavericks shot ice cold in the 2nd half. For the game, they shot 33%. In fact, they made more free throws then field goals. (OUCH) David West who wins my vote for most underrated since Day 1 (if their was ever an award) scored 23 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. I like New Orleans to advance in this series but to win in 6 mainly because Dallas is a very hard place to play, especially in the playoffs.
I hope everyone enjoys the rest of the NBA Playoffs because right now it is the most exciting event going around in sports nowadays. On a quick side note, I just want to give my congratulations to all you Knick fans who have been waiting for the day to come and on Friday it did, Isiah Thomas out as Knicks head coach. My one question is why are they keeping him still involved in the organization??? (Blog on this to be posted later)
Peace,
Matt Soldano
"Off the Glass" - Wednesday Nights 9-10 pm on mywcwp.com
(8) Hawks vs. (1) Celtics - After a 104-81 beatdown, the Hawks appear to just not have a chance in this series. As much as I love the Hawks, and if you've been listening in to "Off the Glass" I preached to my pals Gabe and Mike T that the Hawks would lock up the 8 seed due to their big 3. Of course, a combination of Joe Johnson, Josh Smith, and Mike Bibby seems like NBDL Talent when you put them up against "The Boston Three Party" of KG, Paul Pierce aka The Truth, and Mr. He Got Game himself, Ray Allen. They combined for 50 of Boston's 104 points and also got help from possible Most Improved Player, Rajon Rondo who chipped in 15 points, 9 assists, and 6 boards. As much as I would love to give Atlanta a game in this series, there is just no way the Celtics and that defense will allow that to happen. Boston wins the next three, by double digits, and goes on for the sweep.
(5) Wizards vs (4) Cavaliers - In my opinion, this was the most intriguing match-up in the East for several reasons. First off, the Wizards have been bounced by the Cavs in two straight seasons in the first round and have created quite a bitter rivalry in the regular season. Consequently, Wizards swingman, Deshawn Stevenson decided to call Lebron James "overrated." Hmmmm, not exactly the right person to tickle Mr. Stevenson. As if we couldn't get enough of the trash talking, Gilbert Arenas claimed the Cavs would be in trouble and that this year would be different. Unfortunately, the Wizards were one of the more disappointing teams in Game 1. I think the Wizards could win this series but they went on such a drought in the final 5 minutes of the game that Lebron was able to steamroll past the entire Washington D and come out with a 93-86 victory. However, I do like Washington in this series because of the talent they have. Arenas, Jamison, Butler, and Stevenson can all ball and they just have to all consistently perform well together to finally get their revenge. In one of the more thrilling series in Round 1, I like Washington in 7.
(6) Raptors vs. (3) Magic - We saw Superman Dwight Howard at his best yesterday as he dropped 25 points, pulled down 22 boards, and blocked 5 shots. He basically manhandled his All-Star opponent Chris Bosh who managed 21 points but on 4-11 shooting and only accumulated 6 rebounds. What stuck out to me most in this game was the depth of the Magic team in the starting lineup. All the starters scored 13 or more points with Turkoglu, Jameer Nelson, and D-Howard scoring over 20. The Magic made 13 out of 29 3's (45%) and got 9 3's in the 1st qtr! Toronto made it interesting in the 4th when they cut it down to 5, but eventually ran out of gas as they lost 114-100. This Orlando team is extremely dangerous, especially when Rashard Lewis is on his game. If you combine him with Howard, Hedo, and an improving Jameer Nelson, this Magic team may just be able to challenge the Celtics. I like the Magic to win Game 2 in Orlando and eventually win the series in 5 as the Raptors steal one up North.
(7) 76ers vs. (2) Pistons - In only the "real" upset of Game 1, the 76ers somehow came out with a 90-86 victory on the road against Detroit. Mike T and I both believed that Philly had a chance to make this series interesting and possibly have it go to a Game 6. Philly has been one of the best teams since the All-Star Break thanks to the superb play of Andre Miller and Andre Iguodala. However, does anyone really think Detroit is going to lose this series? I mean Rasheed Wallace himself has more playoff experience than the entire Sixer roster. This game was filled with missed opportunities for both teams. None bigger than Sheed's missed lay-up at the end of the game in a hope to tie the game with 7 seconds left. Philly played great defense holding the Pistons to just 39% shooting and really improved their shot selection after trailing 51-38 at halftime. I think Philly has what it takes to really compete with Detroit. However, I just cannot pick against Mr. Big Shot, Chauncey Billups and Rip Hamilton. I like Detroit in a squeaker as they win in 7 games.
Now to the West:
(8) Nuggets vs. (1) Lakers - Wow just think, the Nuggets and the Hawks are each respectively 8 seeds...Anyway's so this was the game I was waiting for. Eagerly sitting and watching each Laker game, and week after week talking about them with the gang, the true value of the Pau Gasol acquisition beamed from my television screen and hit me square in the face. 36 , 16, 8??? Who knew Pau could put up those numbers. Combine that with Kobe's 32 on a terrible shooting day and Lamar Odom's 17 points and 14 rebounds, your looking at the team to beat in the West. Ok, I realize Denver plays negative defense and perhaps they should use a bit more of this to be a bit more physical on D:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=-lttgZwiinQ
Ok, seriously what the hell was that???
Anyway, I digress.
The Nuggets really had no shot after the 1st half and Kobe decided it was time to score more than 4 points. Until the Nuggets are able to maintain the same level of focus that matches their talent, they are just going to be another team with two dynamic scorers and not a championship caliber team. Unfortunately, for Denver, that time won't come this year. Lakers win in 4.
(5) Jazz vs. (4) Rockets - The Jazz looked pretty good against Houston on Saturday in a 93-82 victory. Houston was playing without Rafer Alston which really puts them in a deeper hole against Deron Williams, who is a top 5 point guard as it already stands. Williams had his way with the Rockets scoring 20 points and dishing out 10 assists. The Jazz were also supported with a surprise 21 from AK47, who let me go on the record, I cannot stand. I think the Rockets really match up poorly with the Jazz. Without Yao Ming, they do not have an interior force to go up against Carlos Boozer. I previously mentioned the hole at the point guard spot for Houston and Tracy McGrady can be inconsistent especially if Kirilenko is on him who is one of the best perimeter defenders in the league. Unfortunately, I think this is another one and out for T-Mac in his career as the Rockets lose in 5.
(6) Suns vs. (3) Spurs - In what was the best game of the weekend by far, the San Antonio Spurs survived a 117-115 double overtime victory against their hated rivals. The main reason in acquiring Shaquille O'Neal in the midpoint of the season was to be able to beat the Spurs at some point in the season. Well Shaq only played 30 minutes due to constant foul trouble and ended up with 11 points and 5 rebounds. Tim Duncan had the same amount of three-pointers made as I did this entire year and somehow was able to drain one at the end of the 1st overtime. Duncan ended up with 40 points and 15 rebounds. (and this was a down year for him...) I cannot wait to see how the rest of this series plays out. It will surely be compelling and one of the best all the way through. Just one thing to think about, had they not made the trade for Shaq, Shawn Marion would have been guarding Ginobli on the final possession of the game. Hmmmmm....Anyway, I like the Suns to finally get past San Antonio in 7 games.
(7) Mavericks vs. (2) Hornets - Okay, let me go on the record as saying I am not a firm believer that the MVP should be based or at least influential on what a player does in the playoffs. If that were the case, Dirk would not have won last year and Chris Paul just may have locked up the award this year. After leading his team to a storming comeback against the Mavs on Saturday and posting up 35 points and dishing out 10 dimes, CP3 has made his case as the best PG in the world. The Mavericks were up comfortably in the 1st half until the Mavericks shot ice cold in the 2nd half. For the game, they shot 33%. In fact, they made more free throws then field goals. (OUCH) David West who wins my vote for most underrated since Day 1 (if their was ever an award) scored 23 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. I like New Orleans to advance in this series but to win in 6 mainly because Dallas is a very hard place to play, especially in the playoffs.
I hope everyone enjoys the rest of the NBA Playoffs because right now it is the most exciting event going around in sports nowadays. On a quick side note, I just want to give my congratulations to all you Knick fans who have been waiting for the day to come and on Friday it did, Isiah Thomas out as Knicks head coach. My one question is why are they keeping him still involved in the organization??? (Blog on this to be posted later)
Peace,
Matt Soldano
"Off the Glass" - Wednesday Nights 9-10 pm on mywcwp.com
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Draft Week on WCWP
It's that time of year, folks. NFL Draft time. This is undoubtedly my favorite weeks of the off-season. For one week between February and August, NFL football is the lead in every major sports publication and on the radio (Except Fourth Down , of course, where NFL Football is always on).
WCWP is no different. We'll have comprehensive draft coverage all week all leading up to Friday at 9pm when our resident draft gurus, Anthony DeFranco and Jason Commack, reveal their mock drafts on Fourth Down.
The Fun starts tomorrow on "The Edge" when Erik Boland from Newsday stops by to talk about the Jets draft board. It all starts tomorrow at 9pm only on mywcwp.com
See you there!
-Jordan Lauterbach
WCWP is no different. We'll have comprehensive draft coverage all week all leading up to Friday at 9pm when our resident draft gurus, Anthony DeFranco and Jason Commack, reveal their mock drafts on Fourth Down.
The Fun starts tomorrow on "The Edge" when Erik Boland from Newsday stops by to talk about the Jets draft board. It all starts tomorrow at 9pm only on mywcwp.com
See you there!
-Jordan Lauterbach
Friday, April 18, 2008
Woaa Nelly
Another fantastic start by Nelson Figeroa last night. Seven dominant innings, 3 hits, 2 runs (both on one Nick Johnson swing) and away he goes. Figgy has had success almost everywhere he goes, so its not all too surprising that success is coming in the bigs. I mean, there has to be some element of shock, but when you consider the fact that this guy has played on so many different levels throughout his journeyman career and had great success, its certainly more plausible then say, a rookie or second year pitcher. What is so shocking is not that he's pitched well, its that he's been dominant. Sure, the Nats stink, but doesn't last nights performance make you think that last Friday against the Brewers wasn't a fluke? We saw on Saturday and Sunday how good an offense Milwaukee has. Most teams that have immense regular season success and go deep into October tend to have that guy who no one has ever heard of. Maybe Nelly could be that guy?
And how many NL teams are leaps and bound better then the Nats. (Ahh, the advantages of playing in the inferior league)
With the solid performances of Nelly and Mike Pelfrey, does anyone really think this team misses Pedro Martinez that much? I don't. Sure, it'll be great when he comes back. But their hardly lost without him.
I could see the National series being a jumping off point for a long dominant run. Something to the effect of 9 out of 13 or 10 out of 15. That's something the Mets never had last year, a long sustainable run of consistent dominance. I can see it happening now. and with the Phils and Cubs coming up, the run could not come at a better time.
It continues with Santana tonight. Johan hasn't had a win since opening day. That's way too long...
-Jordan Lauterbach
And how many NL teams are leaps and bound better then the Nats. (Ahh, the advantages of playing in the inferior league)
With the solid performances of Nelly and Mike Pelfrey, does anyone really think this team misses Pedro Martinez that much? I don't. Sure, it'll be great when he comes back. But their hardly lost without him.
I could see the National series being a jumping off point for a long dominant run. Something to the effect of 9 out of 13 or 10 out of 15. That's something the Mets never had last year, a long sustainable run of consistent dominance. I can see it happening now. and with the Phils and Cubs coming up, the run could not come at a better time.
It continues with Santana tonight. Johan hasn't had a win since opening day. That's way too long...
-Jordan Lauterbach
Players better than Carlos Boozer
This week on the Sportswire, Max Geller claimed that Carlos "Loozer" (Hahahaha) is a Top 10 player in the NBA right now. As any other rational thinking man would do, I disagreed with his statement. Geller then challanged me to name 10 players better than Carlos, but since there was no time on the show, I told him I would write a blog about it. So here I am.
In no particular order:
Tim Duncan
Kobe Bryant
LeBron James
Dwight Howard
Chris Paul
Kevin Garnett
Amare Stoudamire
Steve Nash
Tony Parker
Allen Iverson
Chris Bosh
Dirk Nowinski
Gilbert Arenas
Carmelo Anthony (when not driving drunk)
Yao Ming
Dwayne Wade
Ron Artest
Tracy McGrady
So there. Take that Geller!
-Max Caster
In no particular order:
Tim Duncan
Kobe Bryant
LeBron James
Dwight Howard
Chris Paul
Kevin Garnett
Amare Stoudamire
Steve Nash
Tony Parker
Allen Iverson
Chris Bosh
Dirk Nowinski
Gilbert Arenas
Carmelo Anthony (when not driving drunk)
Yao Ming
Dwayne Wade
Ron Artest
Tracy McGrady
So there. Take that Geller!
-Max Caster
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
The Jets Schedule... Caster Style
Caster style...? I hope it's nothing like 'Choppa Style'!
Haha, anyone remember this atrocity?
http://youtube.com/watch?v=szQwHZ-aWGU
Make sure you come back though.
Okay, here we go...
Week 1 @ Miami = Win (John Beck is so bad, he can't outplay Kellen Clemens.)
Week 2 vs. NE= Loss (Yeah it's the Juggernaut, b----!!)
Week 3 @ SD= Loss (LaDanian Tomlinson will create a LaDanian Tomlinson shaped bruise on Kris Jenkins' chest.)
Week 4 vs Arizona = Win (Calvin Pace will convince Matt Leinart to break out the beer bong before the game; leading to Leinart playing like the QB from Varsity Blues after the night at the strip club.)
Week 5 = Bye
Week 6 vs. The 'Nati = Loss (Ocho will dance all over them. He'll play. He'll force the money out of them.)
Week 7 @ Oakland = Win (Ha! Mere peanuts.)
Week 8 vs. KC = Win (Revis will intercept a pass in this game.)
Week 9 @ Buffalo = Loss (Buffalo always take one from the Jets)
Week 10 vs. St. Louis = Win (Brad Smith will catch a TD in this game.)
Week 11 @ NE = Loss (The Jets will score under 10 points in this game.)
Week 12 vs. Tennessee = Win (How did they even make the playoffs?)
Week 13 vs. Denver = Win (Every team wins a game they're not supposed to.)
Week 14 @ SF = Win (Mangini will make Mike Nolan do push-ups in his nice suit.)
Week 15 vs. Buffalo = Win (Leon Washington will rush for a TD in this game)
Week 16 @ Seattle = Loss (The Jets will return a kick in this game. I don't know whether it will be Washington or Miller.)
Week 17 vs. Miami = Win (Brad Smith will throw a TD in this game.)
Thats 10 wins and 6 losses with select commentary and predictions.
Later duns.
Max Caster
Haha, anyone remember this atrocity?
http://youtube.com/watch?v=szQwHZ-aWGU
Make sure you come back though.
Okay, here we go...
Week 1 @ Miami = Win (John Beck is so bad, he can't outplay Kellen Clemens.)
Week 2 vs. NE= Loss (Yeah it's the Juggernaut, b----!!)
Week 3 @ SD= Loss (LaDanian Tomlinson will create a LaDanian Tomlinson shaped bruise on Kris Jenkins' chest.)
Week 4 vs Arizona = Win (Calvin Pace will convince Matt Leinart to break out the beer bong before the game; leading to Leinart playing like the QB from Varsity Blues after the night at the strip club.)
Week 5 = Bye
Week 6 vs. The 'Nati = Loss (Ocho will dance all over them. He'll play. He'll force the money out of them.)
Week 7 @ Oakland = Win (Ha! Mere peanuts.)
Week 8 vs. KC = Win (Revis will intercept a pass in this game.)
Week 9 @ Buffalo = Loss (Buffalo always take one from the Jets)
Week 10 vs. St. Louis = Win (Brad Smith will catch a TD in this game.)
Week 11 @ NE = Loss (The Jets will score under 10 points in this game.)
Week 12 vs. Tennessee = Win (How did they even make the playoffs?)
Week 13 vs. Denver = Win (Every team wins a game they're not supposed to.)
Week 14 @ SF = Win (Mangini will make Mike Nolan do push-ups in his nice suit.)
Week 15 vs. Buffalo = Win (Leon Washington will rush for a TD in this game)
Week 16 @ Seattle = Loss (The Jets will return a kick in this game. I don't know whether it will be Washington or Miller.)
Week 17 vs. Miami = Win (Brad Smith will throw a TD in this game.)
Thats 10 wins and 6 losses with select commentary and predictions.
Later duns.
Max Caster
Let The Countdown Begin
The Jets Schedule is out! Rejoice. Football is almost back.
Well, not really. But its fun to look at a new batch of hope.
Here it is, along with my early thought on the game:
Week 1
Sun, Sep 7- @ Miami- WIN
Week 2
Sun, Sep 14- New England- Loss
Week 3
Mon, Sep 22 @ San Diego- Loss
Week 4
Sun, Sep 28- Arizona- Win
Week 5
BYE WEEK
Week 6
Sun, Oct 12- Cincinnati-Win
Week 7
Sun, Oct 19- @ Oakland- Win
Week 8
Sun, Oct 26- KC- Win
Week 9
Sun, Nov 2 @ Buffalo- Loss
Week 10
Sun, Nov 9- St. Louis- Win
Week 11
Thu, Nov 13 @ New England- Loss
Week 12
Sun, Nov 23 @ Tennessee- Loss
Week 13
Sun, Nov 30- Denver- Loss (Expect angry column after this game)
Week 14
Sun, Dec 7 @ San Francisco- Win
Week 15
Sun, Dec 14 Buffalo- Loss
Week 16
Sun, Dec 21 @ Seattle- Loss
Week 17
Sun, Dec 28- Miami- Win
That's 8-8 by my count .........We have plenty of time to discuss this.
About 5 Months
-Jordan Lauterbach
Well, not really. But its fun to look at a new batch of hope.
Here it is, along with my early thought on the game:
Week 1
Sun, Sep 7- @ Miami- WIN
Week 2
Sun, Sep 14- New England- Loss
Week 3
Mon, Sep 22 @ San Diego- Loss
Week 4
Sun, Sep 28- Arizona- Win
Week 5
BYE WEEK
Week 6
Sun, Oct 12- Cincinnati-Win
Week 7
Sun, Oct 19- @ Oakland- Win
Week 8
Sun, Oct 26- KC- Win
Week 9
Sun, Nov 2 @ Buffalo- Loss
Week 10
Sun, Nov 9- St. Louis- Win
Week 11
Thu, Nov 13 @ New England- Loss
Week 12
Sun, Nov 23 @ Tennessee- Loss
Week 13
Sun, Nov 30- Denver- Loss (Expect angry column after this game)
Week 14
Sun, Dec 7 @ San Francisco- Win
Week 15
Sun, Dec 14 Buffalo- Loss
Week 16
Sun, Dec 21 @ Seattle- Loss
Week 17
Sun, Dec 28- Miami- Win
That's 8-8 by my count .........We have plenty of time to discuss this.
About 5 Months
-Jordan Lauterbach
Hey, get off of my lawn...
Take a look at this and file it under completly rediculous.
Can the Yankees get any more pompus then this?????
Talk about being holier then thau.
The Yankees should be ashamed. I would be.
-Jordan Lauterbach
Can the Yankees get any more pompus then this?????
Talk about being holier then thau.
The Yankees should be ashamed. I would be.
-Jordan Lauterbach
I Challenge You to a Duel........
If you haven't figured it out by now, I love sports media. Heck, that's what I have dedicated my life to. I love reading Neil Best and Phil Mushnick. They do some of the best writing in the city, as far as I'm concerned. They seem to look at the media world without any tint. Sure, Mushnick hates Mike and the Mad Dog, but not in such a way that it comes off as jealousy. Bob Raisssman, on the other hand, is as in love with himself as the characters he writes about. If not more.
If ever their was a king of 'Anything you can do I can do better' syndrome (or Annie Get Your Gun-itis as it shall now be known) its Raissman. This is a guy who must think he is the most clever guy in the world. Sometimes its hard to tell if he does it intentionally or if he's trying to be funny. I'm no comedic genius, but I do know this. When you try hard to be funny, your usually not. The only reason I bring this up is this:
Take a look at the quote from this mornings "Tuning In" column in the New York Daily News: Raissman is talking about FOX switching to a NASCAR race towards the end of Saturday's Yankee- Red Sox rain-drenched epic: "That's why so many people, many watching in Saloons, were left wondering what was left happening"
...Saloons? That's the word you come up with Bob? Where exactly in New York is there a saloon? Sounds like something you would find in 1870's Oklahoma. What is Raissman going to do next, challenge Tim McCarver to a duel out by the watering hole......Bob, its a great point and I agree that the Yanks being moved to FX for 3 hours of left turning fun is unfathomable, but please....leave the comedy to the experts....
Back with more pertinent commentary later in the week.
-Jordan Lauterbach
If ever their was a king of 'Anything you can do I can do better' syndrome (or Annie Get Your Gun-itis as it shall now be known) its Raissman. This is a guy who must think he is the most clever guy in the world. Sometimes its hard to tell if he does it intentionally or if he's trying to be funny. I'm no comedic genius, but I do know this. When you try hard to be funny, your usually not. The only reason I bring this up is this:
Take a look at the quote from this mornings "Tuning In" column in the New York Daily News: Raissman is talking about FOX switching to a NASCAR race towards the end of Saturday's Yankee- Red Sox rain-drenched epic: "That's why so many people, many watching in Saloons, were left wondering what was left happening"
...Saloons? That's the word you come up with Bob? Where exactly in New York is there a saloon? Sounds like something you would find in 1870's Oklahoma. What is Raissman going to do next, challenge Tim McCarver to a duel out by the watering hole......Bob, its a great point and I agree that the Yanks being moved to FX for 3 hours of left turning fun is unfathomable, but please....leave the comedy to the experts....
Back with more pertinent commentary later in the week.
-Jordan Lauterbach
Happy Jackie Robinson Day!!
Today is the one day out of the whole basebball season that the number 42 is unretired and allowed to be donned any player that wishes to do so. It's one of the great events in Major League Baseball.
Today marks the 61st anniversary of Robinson breaking the MLB color barrier. His integration into the big leagues ended about 80 years of segregation. Robinson played through a slew of death threats and racism.
I have however become enraged with some of the comments Angels' Outfielder Torii Hunter had to offer on the event. He said:
"This is supposed to be an honor, and just a handful of guys wearing the number. Now you've got entire teams doing it. I think we're killing the meaning. It should be special wearing Jackie's number, not just because it looks cool."
If you're only allowing "a handful of guys" to wear #42, then the MLB will be segregating and alienating certain people. The point of Jackie Robinson Day is the exact opposite.
And why the hell would someone change their number just to look cool? Torii, do you not think that the players know why they are allowed to wear #42? It is called Jackie Robinson day. His number 42 is displayed at every ballpark as a retired number. You're way off base Torii.
Now that I got that out of my system...
Jackie Robinson is one of my heroes for what he went through to initiate change in the US. Without Jackie Robinson's courageousness, desegregation in sports and in life could have taken many more years to begin.
So today, I urge everyone to break out their #42 jerseys and wear it with pride, no matter race, color or creed.
Ron Paul FTW,
Max Caster
The Sportswire
Thursdays from 9-10pm on http://mywcwp.com/
http://sportswireonwcwp.mypodcast.com/
Over the Ropes
Saturdays from 10-11pm on http://mywcwp.com/
http://overtheropes.mypodcast.com/
Today marks the 61st anniversary of Robinson breaking the MLB color barrier. His integration into the big leagues ended about 80 years of segregation. Robinson played through a slew of death threats and racism.
I have however become enraged with some of the comments Angels' Outfielder Torii Hunter had to offer on the event. He said:
"This is supposed to be an honor, and just a handful of guys wearing the number. Now you've got entire teams doing it. I think we're killing the meaning. It should be special wearing Jackie's number, not just because it looks cool."
If you're only allowing "a handful of guys" to wear #42, then the MLB will be segregating and alienating certain people. The point of Jackie Robinson Day is the exact opposite.
And why the hell would someone change their number just to look cool? Torii, do you not think that the players know why they are allowed to wear #42? It is called Jackie Robinson day. His number 42 is displayed at every ballpark as a retired number. You're way off base Torii.
Now that I got that out of my system...
Jackie Robinson is one of my heroes for what he went through to initiate change in the US. Without Jackie Robinson's courageousness, desegregation in sports and in life could have taken many more years to begin.
So today, I urge everyone to break out their #42 jerseys and wear it with pride, no matter race, color or creed.
Ron Paul FTW,
Max Caster
The Sportswire
Thursdays from 9-10pm on http://mywcwp.com/
http://sportswireonwcwp.mypodcast.com/
Over the Ropes
Saturdays from 10-11pm on http://mywcwp.com/
http://overtheropes.mypodcast.com/
Sunday, April 13, 2008
It's Really Not That Complicated
Contrary to what Tim McCarver may say, baseball is not for brain surgeons (Kudos to those of you who got that reference...you are astute). I tend to think that it is a fairly simple game. Sure some of the extremely minor rules may get hairy at times, but I still find it easier for the casual observer to follow then most sports. Just ask my friend Melissa. She hates sports and still can follow a baseball game quite well (Shes also hangs with me, so shes exposed to the game at a sometime nauseating level). I often call it the "sport for those who are reluctant to watch sports".
I say this just hours after coming home from one of my favorite places in the universe, Shea Stadium. I come home a frustrated man. One, because the Mets refuse to read this blog. If they had read it, they may have gotten a hint that it might not be a half bad idea to win two out of thee against the Brewers this weekend. More to the point though is how frustrated I am with the lack of baseball IQ that my fellow Met fans have.
Being a Mets fan is like being part of a family. My mother calls it a cult, but I prefer to use the term "Family". As part of that family, I expect a lot from all members of it. Sitting in Shea today, I became frustrated with the rapid fire of dumb baseball commentary that I experienced from the people around me. I could go through it all, but that would take way too long. I will, however, highlight one thing that I heard over and over again and grew angrier every time I heard it.
People just don't understand what a balk is.
More commonly though, people don't understand what a balk is in relation to base-running situations.
To end the debate, here is the definition of a balk thanks to the fine folks at wisegeeks.com:
-While on the pitching rubber, pitcher throws to a base before or without stepping toward that base. Note, that the pitcher can step off of the pitching rubber and throw anywhere.
In other words, a pitcher can throw or do just about anything if he is OFF THE RUBBER. In a situation where it is first and third and the pitcher steps off the rubber, fakes a throw to third, turns around throws to first, this is not a balk. I cannot tell you how many times this happened today and people around me started yelling for a balk. One time can be overlooked. Two can even be laughed off. When we get to six and seven times, I have to say something. The rule is not that complicated.
In another section of the "reasons why Met fans annoy me" file is this: Can we please get off the back of Carlos Beltran? I know he struck out looking to end the 2006 NLCS. I was very upset about this two years ago too. I felt your pain. I saw the visions all winter. I got over it. The idea that Carlos Beltran is a bum is just plain dumb. Lets be honest here. The guy is a Gold Glove centerfielder. He had 33 home runs and 112 rbi last year. He had 41 home runs and 116 RBI the season before that (2006). He probably should have won the MVP in 2006 and might have gotten serious consideration last year if the Mets hadn't collapsed. He's one of the guys that I would want on my team. But wait, he is on my team. You would not know it from the way fans talk about him
What exactly do Met fans want from Carlos? I'm sure he wishes he had a delorian and could go back in time and change the results of game 7 too. He can't and you can't either. To bury this guy as a "bum" is utterly ridiculous. He's still one of the better players in all the league. He's still an all star. The Carlos Beltran detractor will point out his average. He hit .276 and .275 in '07 and '06, respectively. Since when is average the be-all end-all indicator of baseball prowess? If anything, average is an overrated statistic. It is also no secret that power hitters (which, in this post-steroid era, he is) don't hit much higher then .280. His average is fine. His power numbers are fine. This just in: He's pretty darn good.
Ok, he struck out to end the 2006 NLCS...GET OVER IT.
-Jordan Lauterbach
I say this just hours after coming home from one of my favorite places in the universe, Shea Stadium. I come home a frustrated man. One, because the Mets refuse to read this blog. If they had read it, they may have gotten a hint that it might not be a half bad idea to win two out of thee against the Brewers this weekend. More to the point though is how frustrated I am with the lack of baseball IQ that my fellow Met fans have.
Being a Mets fan is like being part of a family. My mother calls it a cult, but I prefer to use the term "Family". As part of that family, I expect a lot from all members of it. Sitting in Shea today, I became frustrated with the rapid fire of dumb baseball commentary that I experienced from the people around me. I could go through it all, but that would take way too long. I will, however, highlight one thing that I heard over and over again and grew angrier every time I heard it.
People just don't understand what a balk is.
More commonly though, people don't understand what a balk is in relation to base-running situations.
To end the debate, here is the definition of a balk thanks to the fine folks at wisegeeks.com:
-While on the pitching rubber, pitcher throws to a base before or without stepping toward that base. Note, that the pitcher can step off of the pitching rubber and throw anywhere.
In other words, a pitcher can throw or do just about anything if he is OFF THE RUBBER. In a situation where it is first and third and the pitcher steps off the rubber, fakes a throw to third, turns around throws to first, this is not a balk. I cannot tell you how many times this happened today and people around me started yelling for a balk. One time can be overlooked. Two can even be laughed off. When we get to six and seven times, I have to say something. The rule is not that complicated.
In another section of the "reasons why Met fans annoy me" file is this: Can we please get off the back of Carlos Beltran? I know he struck out looking to end the 2006 NLCS. I was very upset about this two years ago too. I felt your pain. I saw the visions all winter. I got over it. The idea that Carlos Beltran is a bum is just plain dumb. Lets be honest here. The guy is a Gold Glove centerfielder. He had 33 home runs and 112 rbi last year. He had 41 home runs and 116 RBI the season before that (2006). He probably should have won the MVP in 2006 and might have gotten serious consideration last year if the Mets hadn't collapsed. He's one of the guys that I would want on my team. But wait, he is on my team. You would not know it from the way fans talk about him
What exactly do Met fans want from Carlos? I'm sure he wishes he had a delorian and could go back in time and change the results of game 7 too. He can't and you can't either. To bury this guy as a "bum" is utterly ridiculous. He's still one of the better players in all the league. He's still an all star. The Carlos Beltran detractor will point out his average. He hit .276 and .275 in '07 and '06, respectively. Since when is average the be-all end-all indicator of baseball prowess? If anything, average is an overrated statistic. It is also no secret that power hitters (which, in this post-steroid era, he is) don't hit much higher then .280. His average is fine. His power numbers are fine. This just in: He's pretty darn good.
Ok, he struck out to end the 2006 NLCS...GET OVER IT.
-Jordan Lauterbach
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Good News To All Who Have NFL Network
Bryant Gumbel has left the building.
I was tipped off by my buddy Brad that the worst play-by- play man in the world is gone. Here the quote from Gumbel:
“I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to call NFL Network games the past two years, which was a new experience for me, but we’ve agreed that we’d all be better served going in different directions.”
ie. "I'm really bad and they told me as such. To save my reputation as a competent news man, I must stop this masquerade and leave the play by play to people who can, I don't know, do it well. People like my brother...oh well, back to taking myself way too seriously on HBO's Real Sports"
Isn't it funny that Bryant's brother Greg is so good at play by play (he's one of the best in the league as far as I'm concerned) and Bryant can be so bad? I guess they are the Jose and Ozzie Canseco of football play by play.
Now I wont have to call Brad or Mike T every time Bryant says something stupid and rant about how I could do a better job. The only bad thing about Gumbel leaving is that I won't have fodder to make fun of him with. In a sick kind of way, I thoroughly enjoyed making unrelenting fun of Gumbel's mistakes on this very blog. It'll be weird to have someone competent in that seat.
I'd have to assume the early front runner is Tom Hammond. Hammond does Notre Dame football on NBC and did some fill in work for NFL Network when Gumbel was sick or they had two games in a weekend. I like Hammond but I've never been particularly comfortable with him doing football. Whenever I hear him I think of the Triple Crown. I never like announcers whom I associate with one sport trying to make a name for themselves in another. It just doesn't work.
I have three early candidates that I think the NFL Network should give some serious thought to:
1. Pat Sumerall: Yes, he's "retired", but that's not really true. Summerall still does the Cotton Bowl for Fox and does some other T.V work for some syndicates. The NFL Network only has about six Thursday night games. I'm sure Pat would be up for it. He's a great voice and still part of NFL lore.
2. Bob Costas: It's Costas. Anything he touches turns to gold. He does that show on Sunday night's on NBC... and so does Cris Collinsworth. Instant chemistry. And, it's Costas.
3. Bob Wischusen: Love this guy. He's a bit of a dark horse, but he does a great job with the Jets on radio and would translate to T.V nicely. He does T.V for ESPN, so it would be a seamless transition.
This selection process should be exciting. The NFL Network people only have the easiest job on the planet. Picking someone better then Bryant Gumbel.
Hey, I'm available.
- Jordan Lauterbach
I was tipped off by my buddy Brad that the worst play-by- play man in the world is gone. Here the quote from Gumbel:
“I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to call NFL Network games the past two years, which was a new experience for me, but we’ve agreed that we’d all be better served going in different directions.”
ie. "I'm really bad and they told me as such. To save my reputation as a competent news man, I must stop this masquerade and leave the play by play to people who can, I don't know, do it well. People like my brother...oh well, back to taking myself way too seriously on HBO's Real Sports"
Isn't it funny that Bryant's brother Greg is so good at play by play (he's one of the best in the league as far as I'm concerned) and Bryant can be so bad? I guess they are the Jose and Ozzie Canseco of football play by play.
Now I wont have to call Brad or Mike T every time Bryant says something stupid and rant about how I could do a better job. The only bad thing about Gumbel leaving is that I won't have fodder to make fun of him with. In a sick kind of way, I thoroughly enjoyed making unrelenting fun of Gumbel's mistakes on this very blog. It'll be weird to have someone competent in that seat.
I'd have to assume the early front runner is Tom Hammond. Hammond does Notre Dame football on NBC and did some fill in work for NFL Network when Gumbel was sick or they had two games in a weekend. I like Hammond but I've never been particularly comfortable with him doing football. Whenever I hear him I think of the Triple Crown. I never like announcers whom I associate with one sport trying to make a name for themselves in another. It just doesn't work.
I have three early candidates that I think the NFL Network should give some serious thought to:
1. Pat Sumerall: Yes, he's "retired", but that's not really true. Summerall still does the Cotton Bowl for Fox and does some other T.V work for some syndicates. The NFL Network only has about six Thursday night games. I'm sure Pat would be up for it. He's a great voice and still part of NFL lore.
2. Bob Costas: It's Costas. Anything he touches turns to gold. He does that show on Sunday night's on NBC... and so does Cris Collinsworth. Instant chemistry. And, it's Costas.
3. Bob Wischusen: Love this guy. He's a bit of a dark horse, but he does a great job with the Jets on radio and would translate to T.V nicely. He does T.V for ESPN, so it would be a seamless transition.
This selection process should be exciting. The NFL Network people only have the easiest job on the planet. Picking someone better then Bryant Gumbel.
Hey, I'm available.
- Jordan Lauterbach
As The Cars Once Sang........
Nelson Figerora was just what the Mets needed last night . Surprisingly, Figerora was really good. He was perfect the first time through the Brewers lineup and pitched six solid innings of 2 hit, 2 run ball. Who could ask for anything more from a replacement fifth starter? I always get extra excited when a fourth or fifth starter pitches well and deep into the game. To me, its gravy. You never can realistically expect it, but it's great when it happens. Six innings certainly is not eight innings, but for a 33 year old journeyman to go six against a lineup like the Brewers is impressive. The best part is it came at a perfect time. In the win Thursday night, the Mets used seven pitchers in 12 innings. By going six, Figgy (as he will now be known) allowed the Mets to use only four pitchers tonight. The Mets bullpen should have a light work load later as well. Santana is on the mound. Pencil him in for seven.
The Mets pen has now done a good job two night's in a row. Even Aaron Heilman pitched a scoreless inning. He still stinks, but its good to see nevertheless. Fun Fact: Heilman got his first hold of the year. Why am I not surprised?
In another first, Billy Wagner got his first save. This is not because Wagner's been bad. Save situations have just not presented themselves in the first two weeks like they usually do.
One thing that is a little disconcerning is that the team is still not hitting. Only two players, David Wright and Angel Pagan, had multiple hits tonight. The Mets left six men on base. Only one of those was in scoring position, but it's still a statistic of note. Hitting probably won't become any easier today. Ben Sheets is on the hill for the Brewers. When he's on the field, Sheets still has some of the nastiest stuff in the game.
Santana/Sheets: Should be a classic. Another hard luck loss for Santana would be hard to take. Unfortunately, I see it happening. Hopefully I'm wrong
-Jordan Lauterbach
The Mets pen has now done a good job two night's in a row. Even Aaron Heilman pitched a scoreless inning. He still stinks, but its good to see nevertheless. Fun Fact: Heilman got his first hold of the year. Why am I not surprised?
In another first, Billy Wagner got his first save. This is not because Wagner's been bad. Save situations have just not presented themselves in the first two weeks like they usually do.
One thing that is a little disconcerning is that the team is still not hitting. Only two players, David Wright and Angel Pagan, had multiple hits tonight. The Mets left six men on base. Only one of those was in scoring position, but it's still a statistic of note. Hitting probably won't become any easier today. Ben Sheets is on the hill for the Brewers. When he's on the field, Sheets still has some of the nastiest stuff in the game.
Santana/Sheets: Should be a classic. Another hard luck loss for Santana would be hard to take. Unfortunately, I see it happening. Hopefully I'm wrong
-Jordan Lauterbach
Friday, April 11, 2008
Time to make that Statement
I've been talking for quite a while about how important I think the Mets April is. Now it's time to prove it. Something they failed to do many a time last year was make statements. I know its still early but their no doubt in my mind that last night's win over the Phils was the most important win of the year....and it's not even close. They needed to take two out of three at home from the Phils in the worst way and that need only magnified itself after Tuesday's horrendous loss. Tonight, they got a good outing from John Maine and, with the exception of Aaron Heilman (no surprise their), excellent bullpen work. Two things they also needed in the worst way.
Now its time to build on that. This is what they had trouble doing all last year. Building on big wins. No win this year has been bigger then the one last night. That makes this weekend's series against the Brew Crew is huge.
I know what your saying- "Jordan, how can you really call a series in early April huge?"
I'll tell you how: this isn't your normal April. Like it or not, because of the residue from the collapse (which is still their, no matter what David Wright says), the Mets need to establish dominance early if they are going to be dominant late. No better place to start then Shea Stadium against a good Brewer team. Huge Series. Need at least two.
Jordan Lauterbach
Now its time to build on that. This is what they had trouble doing all last year. Building on big wins. No win this year has been bigger then the one last night. That makes this weekend's series against the Brew Crew is huge.
I know what your saying- "Jordan, how can you really call a series in early April huge?"
I'll tell you how: this isn't your normal April. Like it or not, because of the residue from the collapse (which is still their, no matter what David Wright says), the Mets need to establish dominance early if they are going to be dominant late. No better place to start then Shea Stadium against a good Brewer team. Huge Series. Need at least two.
Jordan Lauterbach
Thursday, April 10, 2008
All Part of The Plan..........
Who says the Jets don't take care of their own..............
Jets have come to terms with an extension for safety Kerry Rhodes. The terms are reportedly 33.5 million over the next five years, including 20 million guaranteed. Rhodes is one of the better young defensive players in the league. This is a guy that is rarely caught out of position and has 10 picks in three years. That's not bad.
I have to admit I was pleasantly shocked by this. I had heard that the two parties were so far apart that it was unlikely Rhodes would not test the market at the end of 2008. But I suspect that, as the late Dan Fogelberg once sang, this was all part of the plan. It's not a secret that some Jet vets were upset about the cash the Jets were shelling out at the beginning of March to players like Alan Fanaca, Calvin Pace, and Damion Woody when there were so many in-house contract issues to deal with. But here's my take: Why concentrate on in-house players first? You know their not going anywhere. They can't. That's why there under contract. You make fast and hard moves for players that will be off the market within a few days and then go look at the in-house issues. It appears that's exactly what the Jets did.
and again, I commend them for it.
The Green Resurrection continues................Take that, unidentified locker room source (a.k.a Laverneous Coles).
-Jordan Lauterbach
Jets have come to terms with an extension for safety Kerry Rhodes. The terms are reportedly 33.5 million over the next five years, including 20 million guaranteed. Rhodes is one of the better young defensive players in the league. This is a guy that is rarely caught out of position and has 10 picks in three years. That's not bad.
I have to admit I was pleasantly shocked by this. I had heard that the two parties were so far apart that it was unlikely Rhodes would not test the market at the end of 2008. But I suspect that, as the late Dan Fogelberg once sang, this was all part of the plan. It's not a secret that some Jet vets were upset about the cash the Jets were shelling out at the beginning of March to players like Alan Fanaca, Calvin Pace, and Damion Woody when there were so many in-house contract issues to deal with. But here's my take: Why concentrate on in-house players first? You know their not going anywhere. They can't. That's why there under contract. You make fast and hard moves for players that will be off the market within a few days and then go look at the in-house issues. It appears that's exactly what the Jets did.
and again, I commend them for it.
The Green Resurrection continues................Take that, unidentified locker room source (a.k.a Laverneous Coles).
-Jordan Lauterbach
Sunday, April 6, 2008
John Dellapina on The Edge Tommorow
John Dellapina from the New York Daily News will be joining us on The Edge tommorow to talk about the NHL Playoffs.
Join us at 9pm only on mywcwp.com
- Jordan Lauterbach
Join us at 9pm only on mywcwp.com
- Jordan Lauterbach
Mets Week 1: Reaction and Analysis
Don't you just love April? Between unnecessary off-days and the proverbial rain out, it seams as if getting to watch an actual Met game is like Christmas morning. I've always had a bit of a problem with the amount of off-days that baseball teams get in April (the 20 games in 20 days Yankees excluded, of course). Would those off-days not be better served late in the season when players are worn down and trying to conserve every ounce of energy in the blazing heat of summer? That brings us to the first five games of the 2008 Mets season.
I think the overwhelming theme of these first five games has been a lack of rhythm. That makes sense too. They had two consecutive off days after scoring 13 runs on Thursday night. I'm a firm believer in offensive momentum and if their anything worse for a baseball team then two consecutive off days in April, I haven't found it yet. Of course, five games in not nearly large enough a sample size to intelligently analyze a baseball team, but I think there are a few points from the first week that are worth looking at.
- Johan Santana has looked good: The best part about that statement is that he hasn't come close to settling into a prolonged groove yet. I kind of liked that he struggled today against the Braves a bit. It showed that even when he doesn't have his best stuff working, he can still give you a solid outing. How scary is it that he can "struggle" and still only give up one run? Santana did give up seven hits, but they were scattered enough to not prove damaging. One thing that has quickly become fairly obvious is that we are not going to see Santana pitch into the eighth inning a lot. Now, this can be said about a lot of starters these days but consider this: Santana left after seven innings after throwing only 91 pitches. Even though he had struggled a little bit, it was still only a 1-0 game. If there is one negative thing you can say about Santana, its that. I would have liked to see him out their for the eighth.
- I'm not sure what to make of this Met bullpen. Aside from today, Aaron Heilman has been effective. Before today, Heilman had not given up a hit in his first two appearances. I was all ready to write a column about how good Heilman has been in the early going and then today happened. I can't get too wrapped up in it because, after all, it is only one game but it still it in perfect symmetry with the way Heilman has pitched for years. He's great when you don't need him to be and awful when you do. Every time Heilman seams to be improving, he shoots right back to his old mediocre self.
Matt Wise has been awful. Just though I'd throw that out their. He went back to New York to have an injury looked at today. He may go on the DL. I am not upset.
- Jordan Lauterbach
I think the overwhelming theme of these first five games has been a lack of rhythm. That makes sense too. They had two consecutive off days after scoring 13 runs on Thursday night. I'm a firm believer in offensive momentum and if their anything worse for a baseball team then two consecutive off days in April, I haven't found it yet. Of course, five games in not nearly large enough a sample size to intelligently analyze a baseball team, but I think there are a few points from the first week that are worth looking at.
- Johan Santana has looked good: The best part about that statement is that he hasn't come close to settling into a prolonged groove yet. I kind of liked that he struggled today against the Braves a bit. It showed that even when he doesn't have his best stuff working, he can still give you a solid outing. How scary is it that he can "struggle" and still only give up one run? Santana did give up seven hits, but they were scattered enough to not prove damaging. One thing that has quickly become fairly obvious is that we are not going to see Santana pitch into the eighth inning a lot. Now, this can be said about a lot of starters these days but consider this: Santana left after seven innings after throwing only 91 pitches. Even though he had struggled a little bit, it was still only a 1-0 game. If there is one negative thing you can say about Santana, its that. I would have liked to see him out their for the eighth.
- I'm not sure what to make of this Met bullpen. Aside from today, Aaron Heilman has been effective. Before today, Heilman had not given up a hit in his first two appearances. I was all ready to write a column about how good Heilman has been in the early going and then today happened. I can't get too wrapped up in it because, after all, it is only one game but it still it in perfect symmetry with the way Heilman has pitched for years. He's great when you don't need him to be and awful when you do. Every time Heilman seams to be improving, he shoots right back to his old mediocre self.
Matt Wise has been awful. Just though I'd throw that out their. He went back to New York to have an injury looked at today. He may go on the DL. I am not upset.
- Jordan Lauterbach
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Fool me once...
Yesterday, the Knicks named Donnie Walsh the new President of Basketball Operations, replacing Isiah Thomas. During his 24 years with the Indiana Pacers, Walsh held many different positions including President, and CEO. He is one of the League's most respected executives. Walsh was brought in to evaluate and revamp the Knicks.
The thing nobody realizes is that Dolan hired Isiah to do the same thing. Yes Walsh and Thomas are two different people, but the fans and media are getting their hopes up way too high once again.
Isiah was said to be the man to save New York from Scott Layden when he was hired in 2003. Now Walsh is being viewed the same way Isiah was, in 2003, and Isiah has taken Layden's spot. It's just a big circle. So big that everyone forgets what the starting point looks like, so no one notices when they pass it again.
I wish the Knicks to have unlimited success under Donnie Walsh but I also wish that everyone would not get their hopes up before he's proven anything here. He didn't prove much in Indiana either. Drafting Reggie Miller and one finals appearance in 24 years is not the greatest resumé.
Talk to me in a year. Let's see what he can do.
Random Thoughts
-What's the big deal about Matt Leinart pouring liquor down that girl's throat? I'm pretty sure it was a regulation beer bong.
http://photos.tmz.com/galleries/matt_and_nick_get_dirty
-Wow. Chad Johnson is making less sense than Jose Canseco! Chill 'Ocho', you're freaking me out.
-I'd also like to say 'peace out' to former Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry. If he and Pacman Jones are both suspended, the average IQ in the NFL will go up drastically.
As EPMD said: Peace!
Max Caster
Over the Ropes
Saturdays from 10-11pm on http://mywcwp.com
http://overtheropes.mypodcast.com
The New Sportswire
Thursdays from 9-10pm on http://mywcwp.com
http://sportswireonwcwp.mypodcast.com
The thing nobody realizes is that Dolan hired Isiah to do the same thing. Yes Walsh and Thomas are two different people, but the fans and media are getting their hopes up way too high once again.
Isiah was said to be the man to save New York from Scott Layden when he was hired in 2003. Now Walsh is being viewed the same way Isiah was, in 2003, and Isiah has taken Layden's spot. It's just a big circle. So big that everyone forgets what the starting point looks like, so no one notices when they pass it again.
I wish the Knicks to have unlimited success under Donnie Walsh but I also wish that everyone would not get their hopes up before he's proven anything here. He didn't prove much in Indiana either. Drafting Reggie Miller and one finals appearance in 24 years is not the greatest resumé.
Talk to me in a year. Let's see what he can do.
Random Thoughts
-What's the big deal about Matt Leinart pouring liquor down that girl's throat? I'm pretty sure it was a regulation beer bong.
http://photos.tmz.com/galleries/matt_and_nick_get_dirty
-Wow. Chad Johnson is making less sense than Jose Canseco! Chill 'Ocho', you're freaking me out.
-I'd also like to say 'peace out' to former Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry. If he and Pacman Jones are both suspended, the average IQ in the NFL will go up drastically.
As EPMD said: Peace!
Max Caster
Over the Ropes
Saturdays from 10-11pm on http://mywcwp.com
http://overtheropes.mypodcast.com
The New Sportswire
Thursdays from 9-10pm on http://mywcwp.com
http://sportswireonwcwp.mypodcast.com
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