Updated WCWP Pool Standings - We Have A Winner...

In what might be one of rarest moments in the history of March Madness pools, a winner won't have to be determined pending the Final Four outcomes...

Our 2009-2010 WCWP March Madness Pool Winner is....Bob "Dad" Soldano!

With no one having their champions left and only Papa Soldano, Jordan, and Malone having WVU making the Finals, the game vs. Duke is meaningless.  Here are the standings:

1. Bob "Dad" Soldano - 71 points

2. Nick Malone - 68 points

3. Janine Celauro - 64 points

4. Moose The Intern - 61 points

    Jackie - 61 points

5. Dan Cox - 60 points

6. Jordan Lauterbach - 59 points

7. Patrick Creighton - 58 points

8. Matt Soldano - 56 points

    Brandon Steinberger - 56 points

    Jesse Lauterbach - 56 points

9. Dave Soldano - 55 points

10. Anne "Mom" Soldano - 53 points

11. Mike Tramontozzi - 47 points

12. Jason Comack - 41 points

Another solid year and thanks to all the participants.  Now we are stuck with a crappy Final Four. Michigan State? Butler? Duke? Go Mountaineers! 

Who ya'll got? 

I will post the "Final" Standings pending on when West Virginia loses...

-Matt Soldano

Updated Standings - End of Sweet 16

Here are the updated standings along with the max points available:

1. Bob "Dad" Soldano - 63 points (91 max)

2. Jackie - 61 points (89 max)

3. Nick Malone - 60 points (88 max)

4. Patrick Creighton - 58 points (102 max)

    Matt Soldano - 56 points (84 max)

    Jesse Lauterbach - 56 points (92 max)

    Brandon Steinberger - 56 points (100 max)

    Janine Celauro - 56 points (84 max)

6. Dave Soldano - 55 points (91 max)

7. Moose The Intern - 53 points (81 max)

    Anne "Mom" Soldano - 53 points (97 max)

8. Dan Cox - 52 points (68 max)

9. Jordan Lauterbach - 51 points (79 max)

10. Mike Tramontozzi - 47 points (75 max)

11. Jason Comack - 41 points (69 max)

- Matt Soldano

Tim Cluess' Status with St. John's, Hofstra Coaching Jobs

I spoke with CW Post Head Basketball Coach Tim Cluess today. Regarding a possible job at his alma mater Saint John’s, Cluess isn’t focusing on it, saying the school is looking for a Division 1 type coach.

About Hofstra, Cluess said he hasn’t gotten a call yet, but he’d be willing to listen if he did.

Tim Cluess accepting his 2009/10 Co-ECC Coach of the Year Award at the Pratt Center.

Tim Sullivan of the NY Post wrote:

Hofstra athletic director Jack Hayes has a working weekend on tap. He has the next few days to compile a short list of candidates to replace former coach Tom Pecora, who was introduced as the new Fordham head man yesterday. Early next week, Hayes will present the list to university president Stuart Rabinowitz.

"One thing that we know, because of what [Villanova coach] Jay Wright and Tom Pecora have established here over 16 years," Hayes said, "is that this is a job that will generate some interest."

It already has. Van Macon, Hofstra's top assistant, Stony Brook's Steve Pikiell and C.W. Post's Tim Cluess are all expected to get a look. But don't limit Hayes to this area.


Tim Cluess coached the CW Post Pioneers to an appearance in the East Coast Conference finals, and missed on a selection to the Division II National Tournament.


-- Max Caster

Opening Day Countdown

Ahhh It has certainly been a while since my last post but I have been sick, with baseball fever. I just can't wait for the season to start and lucky for myself and all the baseball seam heads the season will start in 12 days with the Yankees taking on the Red Sox on Easter Sunday on ESPN. Don't worry Met fans as the Mets look for a fresh start on April 5th when they take on the Marlins.

The Yanks and Sox kick off the season and a rivalry that is timeless in 12 days. My favorite player Alfonso Soriano, wore 12 during his time with the Yankees before getting traded to the Texas Rangers for Alex Rodriguez.

Soriano won the second base job in 2001. Soriano showed his promise of great talent at times, including hitting what would have been the game winning home run in game 7 of the 2001 World Series.

2002 would be a break out year for Soriano. Soriano missed being part of the 40-40 club by one homerun. The knock on Soriano was that he struck out to much (157 times) and didn't walk enough (23 walks). Soriano made the All Star team that season and finished 3rd in the MVP voting. The following season Soriano once again put up great stats, but struggled in the playoffs against the Red Sox, hitting just .133.

Right before the start of the 2004 season,Aaron Boone went down and the Yankees needed a third baseman. The Yanks pulled off a blockbuster trade for A-Rod, sending Soriano to Texas. At times i would often wish the Yanks never traded away Soriano , no season more then in 2006 while Rodriguez was struggling at the plate and field, while Soriano had 40 home runs 40 steals and 40 doubles.

Soriano would sign a huge contract following his 2006 campaign with the Nationals, he signed with the Cubs to play Left field. Soriano had always been a second basemen with the Yanks. In 2009 Soriano was banged up and had his worst season since his rookie season. Soriano looks to help the Cubs break there curse this season and rebound from his worst season.



Edgardo Alfonzo may bring back fond memory's for Mets fans. Alfonzo was a key part of the late 90's Mets teams that made the Mets respectable in a time when the Yankees ran the town. Alfonzo's best seasons were in 1999 and 2000. Both season's the Mets made it deep into the playoffs losing to the Braves in 1999 in the NLCS and the Yankees in 2000. With the Mets during that time Alfonzo was part of the "The best infield ever" with Robin Ventura , John Olerud and Rey Ordonez. Following the 2002 season with the Mets, Alfonzo signed with the San Fransisco Giants. Following three season's of struggling in San Fran , Edgardo was traded to the Angels and then the Blue Jays.
Following his time in the majors, Alfonzo could still be seen locally with the Long Island Ducks. Currently Alfonzo is playing in Japan

--Matthew Saur

Updated WCWP Pool Standings - Into The Sweet 16

Here we go ma' gents.  As we enter the Sweet 16, here are your up to date standings:

Made a mistake with the scoring: 

Elite 8 = 8 points

Final Four = 12 points

Championship = 16 points

Sweet 16 will still be 4 points.

1. Brandon Steinberger - 44 points (136 max points)

2. Bob "Dad" Soldano - 43 points (131 max points)

3. Patrick Creighton - 42 points (130 max points)

4. Jackie - 41 points (141 max points)

    Anne "Mom" Soldano - 41 points (101 max points)

5. Matt Soldano - 40 points (136 max points)

    Jesse Lauterbach - 40 points (100 max points)

    Nick Malone - 40 points (104 max points)

    Dan Cox - 40 points (112 max points)

    Janine Celauro - 40 points (100 max points)

6. Dave Soldano - 39 points (103 max points)

    Jordan Lauterbach - 39 points (123 max points) 

7. Moose The Intern - 37 points (109 max points)

8. Mike Tramontozzi - 35 points (127 max points)

9. Jason Comack - 33 points (85 max points)

-Matt Soldano

Tiger Speeks....Again

Well, they aren't quite text messages, but here's Tiger's one on one interview with The Golf Channel.

Call me a Tiger apologist (...and if you heard my post-speech monologue, I probably am), but I think he comes off as well as he could have in this piece. Remember, this is a guy who made a living being secretive and, over the last 4 months, has been outed as one of the world's biggest sexual miscreants. He's not going to come out and be the most forthcoming guy in the world. But he could beat around the bush much more then he does and for that, I give him loads of credit.

Kudos to my boy Jay Busbee who tipped me off to this on his YAHOO! blog. It's golden.

My favorite quote: "I don't know what I'm going to do, Kel." Now I dont know what the relationship is between Tiger and Kelly Tighman, but I guess their good buddies.

Jordan Lauterbach

Updated WCWP Pool Standings - Start of Round 2

Well tweeps, brackets have been broken!  With Villanova and more importantly Kansas being knocked out of the tournament, many people have already begun to go "Kobe" on their brackets and toss them into the trash can.  If you are at the bottom of the standings, have no fear as the effects of Kansas and Nova losing will be greatly felt in the upcoming days when there are points still on the board.  Remember, each correct game in the second round is worth 2 points.  

So without further ado, here are your updated standings:

1. Brandon Steinberger - 34 points

2. Bob "Dad" Soldano - 33 points

3. Patrick Creighton - 32 points

4. Anne "Mom" Soldano - 31 points

    Jackie - 31 points

    Jordan Lauterbach - 31 points

5. Janine Celauro - 30 points

    Dan Cox - 30 points

    Nick "Jack Lincoln" Malone - 30 points

    Jesse Lauterbach - 30 points

6. Dave Soldano - 29 points

    Moose The Intern - 29 points

7. Matt Soldano - 28 points

8. Mike Tramontozzi - 27 points

9. Jason "Defending Champ" Comack - 25 points

Still a lot of basketball to be played...

I will leave you with a final quote...

"May I hope to cross out many of your predictions and highlight all of mine." - Matt Soldano

-Soldano

WCWP March Madness Standings - After Round One

Okay everyone, after Round One, here are the updated standings (32 pts possible):

1. Brandon Steinberger - 26 points

2. Jordan Lauterbach - 25 points

3. Dan Cox - 24 points

    Patrick Creighton - 24 points

    Jesse Lauterbach - 24 points

4. Bob "Dad" Soldano - 23 points

    Anne "Mom" Soldano - 23 points

    Jackie - 23 points

    Dave Soldano - 23 points

    Moose The Intern - 23 points

5. Matt Soldano - 22 points

    Janine Celauro - 22 points

    Nick "Jack Lincoln" Malone - 22 points

6. Jason Comack - 21 points

    Mike Tramontozzi - 21 points

Check back tomorrow night for the latest standings...

-Matt Soldano

It's Back! WCWP March Madness Tournament Year Two

What a group of games last night! Florida and BYU go to double overtime, Villanova barely holds off Bob Morris, buzzer beaters (or near) by Murray State, Northern Iowa, Wake Forest and Washington. And as your first bracket buster, Georgetown rolls over for Ohio. That's why there is no better time in sports than March Madness.  And that is why I have the second annual WCWP (and other throw-ins) March Madness Pool for ya'll.  We welcome back our defending champion Jason Comack, runner up and wonderful secretary Janine Celauro. Of course there is the dynamic set of Lauterbach brothers who are also in for a return. Newcomers include Moose the Intern, Brandon Steinberger, and the real and white Patrick Creighton.

Here is how the scoring will go:

1st round games = 1 point

2nd round games = 2 points

Sweet 16 = 4 points

Elite 8 = 6 points

Final Four = 10 points

Championship = 12 points

After each day I will post the updated standings.  Here are the standings after Day One (16 points possible).  The team in parentheses next to the individual and their points indicates their champion...

After Round One, Day One:

1. Brandon "Stein" Steinberger - 14 points (Kentucky)

2. Patrick Creighton - 13 points (Kentucky)

3. Dave Soldano - 11 points (Kentucky)

    Jackie "Girlfriend of Dave" Tripodi - 11 points (Ohio State)

    Jesse Lauterbach - 11 points (Kansas)

    Dan Cox - 11 points (Ohio State)

    Bob "Dad" Soldano - 11 points (Syracuse)

4. Jason Comack - 10 points (Kansas)

    Moose The Intern - 10 points (Kentucky)

    Jordan Lauterbach - 10 points (Ohio State)

    Mike Tramontozzi - 10 points (Syracuse)

    Anne "Mom" Soldano - 10 points (Kansas State)

    Nick "Jack Lincoln" Malone - 10 points (Kansas)

5. Matt Soldano - 9 points (Ohio State)

    Janine Celauro - 9 points (Kansas)

Check back tomorrow night for the latest standings and see who is on the fast track to being crowned champion.  

Most importantly, enjoy the Madness!

-Matt Soldano

Opening Day Countdown

The Yankees and Mets are gonna kick their new season off in just 17 days for the bombers and 18 for the amazin's.

Shelley Duncan burst upon the big league scene in July 2007. Duncan in his second game hit a home run, I can mostly remember this because I was at the game and the ball landed about 5 rows behind me (Every time on the Yes Network they would reshow the clip i can still see myself). Shelley became a quick fan favorite for his energy and power that he brought to the Yanks that season. Duncan could play both first base and the outfield. Duncan found himself in some controversy when at fenway park signing autographs for Red Sox fans he signed his name and then wrote "Red Sox Suck" on a piece of paper for a teenage boy.

Duncan planned to be the DH/ first baseman in 2008. Duncan caused a stir in spring training after he slid hard spikes up to Akinori Iwamura of the Rays. This was following Francisco Cervali getting plowed at the plate. Duncan caused a bench clearing brawl that lead to suspensions of Johnny Gomez, Melky Cabrera and himself. 2008 Duncan struggled alot hitting in the .200's , before being sent down. Shelley always seemed to struggle hitting the breaking balls and often would attempt to pull outside pitches.
Duncan would never make it back up to the big club, it seemed as if once pitchers figured him out he couldn't change his ways. The Yanks released him, and he has moved on, to the Indians.





The Mets play there first game in 18 days. Moises Alou wore 18 for the Mets in 2007 and 2008. Alou was known for not wearing batting gloves and urinating on his hands to make them harder. Alou came to the Mets and got off to a hot start hitting above .300 before he got hurt. He came back and hit over .320 and had a 30 game hit streak, pretty good for a guy older then 40. Alou was resigned for 2008, but he never got to play much. Alou had a hernia and missed time and then hurt his hamstring, the hamstring injury lead to him needing surgery. That ended his career with the Mets although he did bring leadership while a Met, Alou also produced but just couldn't stay healthy. Alou was one of my favorite Mets when in 2007 during batting practice Alou tossed me a baseball.

--Matthew Saur

Opening day countdown

Once again we are back by popular demand ! The Yankees and Mets will be bringing baseball back to New York in a short time 19 days for the Yanks and 20 for the Metropolitans.

When you think about Yankee legends you think Babe, Mantle , Gehrig and Jeter. One name although he is not a legend for the Yankees, he did hit a legendary home run. Aaron Boone will always be excepted and embraced by Yankee fans for that what he did for the Yanks in the famous 2003 ALCS. The day of the trading deadline in 2003 the Yankees added Aaron Boone and pitcher Gabe White in a trade for Brandon Claussen and cash.Boone that year was an all star for the Reds but once he came to the Yankees he struggled alot. His struggles continued into the playoffs when at times Enrique Wilson was asked to play third base instead of Boone. Boone hit just .176 during the seven game series against the Red Sox collecting just three hits, but one of those was the biggest hit of his career. On October 16th 2003 is when Boone would forever make himself part of Yankee history when on the first pitch of the 11th inning Boone sent a Tim Wakefield Knuckleball into the leftfield seats. Boone was mobbed at home plate by his teammates, adding to the curse and misery of Red Sox nation. Boone still struggled in the World Series hitting just .143 in the Yankee losing effort to the Marlins.

In 2004 the Yankees were gonna go with Boone as there third basemen when once again he changed Yankee history when in February he tore up his knee playing a pick up basketball game. The Yankees then went in and grabbed Alex Rodriguez and the rest is history.

Boone went on to play for the Indians, Marlins and Astros. In 2009 Boone had to have open heart surgery , and came back and played for the Astros that year. Boone only played in a handful of games that season due to the condition, and announced his retirement following the season. This season Boone can be seen on ESPN as he plans to be an analyst for them.



The Mets face off against the Marlins on April 5, just 20 days away. In 2006 the Mets added Shawn Green to there roster to play the outfield.Green came from the Diamondbacks in a mid season trade following the trade of Xavier Nady. Green performed alright, even though it was his worst season in his career. Green was embraced by the Shea faithful, right away for his Jewish heritage. Green played great during the 2006 playoffs for the Mets playing a good Right field, along with hitting over .300.

2007 Green spent some time on the DL, but at the age of 34 it was noticeable Green was no longer the player he once was. Green did his .291 but at the same time, had only 10 homeruns and 46 RBI.

In February 2008 Green announced his retirement, citing he would rather spend time with his family.

--Matthew Saur

New Alternate Uniforms for Green Bay

The Green Bay Packers have unveiled their new ensemble for the season. I think it speaks for itself:



Yeah...


-- Max Caster

Jets Get LT

From PFT:

LaDainian Tomlinson has made his decision. He's going to be a New York Jet.

Adam Schefter of ESPN is reporting that Tomlinson and the Jets reached an agreement today on a two-year contract.

Tomlinson's decision, which had been expected for the last couple of days, comes after he considered the Minnesota Vikings, where he visited on Thursday. On Friday he visited the Jets and on Saturday he flew home to San Diego to spend some time thinking before making up his mind.


I'm happy with this signing. After letting Thomas Jones go, this was the next best option for the Jets. LaDanian Tomlinson, even though he's coming off a terrible year, will be a solid backup to Shonn Greene. Greene needs the room to grow, and Tomlinson shouldn't get in the way.

Earlier in the week, GM Mike Tannenbaum said that the only way the Jets sign LT is if the NFL's 8th All-Time leading rusher understands his role with the team. Hopefully, both sides have agreed upon how Tomlinson will be used. That was my primary concern, and now it seems like they've overcome that.

Now, I would've been a lot more comfortable if Thomas Jones was the other halfback on New York. The guy has had career-highs in each of the last 2 years. Plus, if Shonn Greene goes down, which he did twice last season, there was Jones to fall back on. Now my primary concern with the running back spot is Greene's health and, if he gets hurt, LT's ability to fill in comparably.


-- Speaking of Thomas Jones, the Jets took out an ad in the Kansas City Star to thank TJ for his work:



You can add me to the list of people who're thanking him.


--Max Caster

Orlando Hernandez in a commercial ??

Really El Duque ? There are too many questions to be even asked about this. Why of all people would they chose Orland Hernandez? Why do they call him "El Duke" instead of El Duque? Also on Hernandez part why would he agree to do this commercial? I really hope they gave him this product for free if it even works because otherwise it's just embarrassing.

Still I would love to see Hernandez get picked up by a team even if he is about to get AARP. I could see him helping the Mets, this season as long as his foot bunions don't act up again.

--Matthew Saur

Opening Day Countdown

Once again welcome to the Opening Day countdown.We are down to 24 days for the Yankees and 25 days for the Mets.Today we will talk about two second basemen, that have played for the New York franchises.

The Yankees hope to find a win in there Easter basket in 24 days when they play the Red Sox. Currently Robinson Cano (my favorite player)wears the pinstriped 24. Cano was called up in 2005 since Tony Womack was struggling at second base. Cano also struggled at first, but eventually went on to finish second to Huston Street in the Rookie of the Year voting. During the season Joe Torre even compared him to Hall of Famer Rod Carew. Cano during his first few seasons struggled with his patience at the plate drawing just 16 and 18 walks in his first two seasons.

With the start of the 2006 season it was unsure what to get out of the talented second baseman. Cano responded by making the All Star team and hitting .342, although missing time with a hamstring injury. The next season in 2007 is when Cano switched his number from 22 to 24, since he was named after Jackie Robinson and 24 is the reverse of Robinson's 42.The 2007 season started off slow for Cano but he eventually had another fine season. The fine season lead to the Yanks giving Cano a contract extension before the start of the 2008 season. Many, including myself had heard how Cano could get lazy at times and with the loss of his mentor at second base Larry Bowa. The contract extension would not motivate Cano.

The 2008 season started and Cano once agian got off to a slow start hitting just .151 for the first month. Cano would improve, but Joe Girardi eventually benched him in September for failing to run out a ground ball. By the time Girardi benched him it was too late,Cano should have been benched earlier in the season for his lazy play. Cano did have the final walk off hit and RBI at the old Yankee stadium.

In 2009 Cano needed to get off to a hot start,to prevent the fans and media to jump all over him. Cano had spent all winter with Kevin Long the Yanks hitting coach in his native Dominican Republic to improve his plate discipline. Cano got off to a hot start and never cooled off. In what some may argue was Cano's best season he hit .320 with 25 HRS and 85 RBI and played in 161 games, the most in his career. The one nack on Cano was that in clutch situations Cano struggled all season and in the big stage of the World Series hitting just .136 vs the Phillies.

Cano, heading into his sixth season looks to hit better with runners in scoring position, especially since it is possible that he will bat after A-Rod.


The Mets have just 25 days to prepare for Opening Day agianst the Marlins. Hopefully 2010 Opening Day will have fonder memorys then Kaz Matsui's stint with the Mets. Matsui was known for being a star shortstop in Japan, and came with alot of hype. Prior to his first game played with the Mets some felt that he would be the better Matsui in New York ( Hideki was in the Bronx for those unaware). Kaz never became the better Matsui unless it was opening day when in three consecutive years Matsui hit Homeruns in his first at bat.

The 2004 season was a major struggle for Matsui in his first season in New York. Jose Reyes at the time was suppose to be the future of the Mets at shortstop but was forced to move for Matsui.Kaz would have a disappointing season after such high expectations. The next two seasons in flushing would be the same for Matsui.

2005 signaled a change for Matsui. The Mets asked him to move to second base,he struggled at second since he had never played there before. Following multiple injuries Kaz split time at second with Miguel Cairo once he returned. In 2006 it was expect that Kaz and Jose Valentin would split time at second base. Matsui played alright but Valentin played much better making it possible for the Mets to trade Matsui to the Rockies for Eli Marrero.

Even after Matsui left the Mets he continued to give Met fans headaches when in 2007 with the Rockies he helped them make the Playoffs while the Mets watched from home. Following the 2007 season Matsui signed with the Astros. Since then he has played forgettable baseball although recently he made news with an embarrassing Anal Fissure that put him on the DL.

--Matthew Saur

Opening day countdown

Baseball's back in 25 and 26 days For the Yanks and Mets. Due to lack of time today's entry will be simple with just pictures.

My Boy the dancing bear Jason Giambi, could went with Tex but Giambi and his golden thong got the nod.



Orlando Hernandez makes it back into the blog since he wore 26 for the Mets during his time and since has only been Fernando Martinez.

Tomorrow I will have another full entry but until Next time
--Matthew Saur

Opening day countdown

Baseball will be back in the big apple in 26 days for the Yanks and 27 for the Mets.Until then we will all be stuck watching March madness,and the boring NBA and attempting to find what channel the NHL is on. Any ways back to what this entry was suppose to be about.

With 26 days till the bombers play there arch rival Red Sox, I instantly though about who had worn 26. Right away i though of Cuban righty Orlando Hernandez. Hernandez aka El Duque was known for his high leg kick and odd post game interviews. Following a game against the Blue Jays, that the Yankees had just won by a slight margin. a reporter asked Hernandez if he liked to face Carlos Delgado with the bases which he had just done and got Delgado out with the game on the line. Hernandez replied if you ask me if i like a good banana i would answer yes. But if you ask me if i like facing Delgado with the bases loaded i would have to say no.

Hernandez was known for his October magic. He was named the ALCS MVP in 1999 and had a career record of 9-3 with a 2.55 ERA. To this day i still say that in 2004 had Hernandez not had a "dead arm" and was not able to pitch effectively, the Yankees would have never lost to the Red Sox.

Hernandez was a feisty player, once getting into a fight with Jorge Posada in the clubhouse. Following his time with the Yankees he pitched for the White Sox, Diamond Backs and Mets.There is also a dispute as to when El Duque was born, since he is listed as 40 years old currently (1969) but some reports have him as old as 50. It is unknown of his official age since there is no documents of his from Cuba.





The Mets are 27 days away from taking on the Marlins. Nelson Figueroa has worn 27 since 2008 when he became a Met. Figueroa is from Brooklyn, so instantly the Shea faithful took a liking to him. Figgy pitched decent both season going 3-3 with a 4.57 ERA in 2008 and 3-8 with a 4.09 ERA in 2009. Figueroa figures to be in the mix for a job in the bullpen this year or as a spot starter. If he does not make the team he will likely stay in triple A.

Following the September 11th attacks Figueroa created and designed t-shirts that raised money for the families for those who were effected during the attacks.

--Matt Saur

The Fantasy Baseball season is just beginning, ARE YOU READY?

One could easily point out who the best players are this year in baseball when looking at last years stats. But if you are someone who is trying to take every advantage, regarding fantasy baseball then you must look even deeper. For instance if you go to ESPN and look up a player, then click on splits, and then go to years, you have the ability to look up a players stats for the last 3 seasons combined. Here is an example of what I mean:
http://espn.go.com/mlb/players/splits?playerId=4574&type=batting3

But why does this matter you might ask yourself? Well using this information will give you a good indication of a few different things. One, it may tell you when a player is particularly good in one month over another. In this case you may be able to pick up a player who is available. Like J.D. Drew, who happens to be really good in the month of June. His stats that month are as follows: .320 AVG/.436 OBP/SLG .660, plus he has 19 HR and 54 RBI. The next best month that you could even compare, he only had 8 HR and 31 RBI.
Another benefit of this is it may tell you if a player is worth keeping or dropping after the all-star break. An example of that is a player like Dan Haren for dropping.
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/splits?playerId=5565&type=pitching3&three=1

Adam LaRoche is the opposite, as a player worth acquiring if you can.
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/splits?playerId=5879&type=batting3

This may not be for average fan of fantasy baseball, but it is something to use and that you should take advantage of, if you want the best chance of winning your league.

On another note, this is what outfielder, Milton Bradley, had to say this week to the NY Times: "Two years ago, I played, and I was good," Bradley told the newspaper. "I go to Chicago, not good. I've been good my whole career. So, obviously, it was something with Chicago, not me." Bradley was dealt from the Cubs to the Mariners in the off season. So since this must be true, get him asap if he's still available after the first round of your draft this year. Don't be the fool who misses out on the comeback player of the year folks.

As always this has been, Corey Sobel, with a special report

Opening day countdown

Welcome back to another edition of opening day countdown. The Yanks and Mets face off against the Red Sox and Marlins in 27 and 28 days.

The Yanks had won 26 World Series titles, when in 2008 Joe Girardi became managers. Girardi choose the number 27 because he said that was the goal, as it is every season, to win the World Series. Girardi had worn 25 during his playing time with the Yankees during the late 90's dynasty but in an effort to rally the the team to win he choose a different number in 27.

In 2008 ,his first season as Yankee manager after previously managing the Marlins in 2006 and being a YES Network broadcaster, Girardi came in and seemed to want to prove to critics that he was not like Joe Torre. Girardi had confrontations and problems with the media early in the season, as the Yanks struggled to get off to a good start. Girardi was much tougher on the players than Torre ever was, at times being military like. Following the closing of Yankee Stadium in 2008 and missing the playoffs for the first time since 1993 Girardi was prepared to make a change.

With 2009 starting up Girardi seemed more relaxed and laid back, you could sense that he had changed his attitude a bit. That season on a team full of talent Girardi lead the Yanks to the best record in baseball, but once the post season came Girardi seemed to have changed his managing style. Earlier in the year Girardi always let the pitchers pitch all they had but in the post season Girardi started to mix and match and rely to much on stats and previous match ups. At times that would get him in trouble like in ALCS game 3 when he took out David Robertson for Alfredo Aceves who would give up the game winning hit. No pitching moves could change the yanks from winning a championship with the talent they had on there team. Although Girardi did make questionable calls at times during the run as mentioned earlier along with having Jose Molina at catcher over Jorge Posada when A.J Burnett pitched. In 2010 Girardi is in the last year of his contract, leaving him as a lame duck manger. Although it seems very unlikely that Joe will be fired since he is coming off a winning season and has a great relationship with the Steinbrenner family.

It won't be too long till we see the Mets taking the field again at Citi Field, 28 days to be exact. Last season 28 was worn by everyone favorite Irishman Daniel Murphy (well atleast it sounds Irish). Murphy first came up in 2008 with the Mets when a bench player was injuried, instantly he gave Mets fans hope when at one point he was hitting .500 after 20 at bats. Murphy colled down a bit but not much ending the season hitting .313. Murphy didn't have a position that he could constantly play . At times he would play in the outfield and also second base.

Murphy practiced playing in the outfield and first base during the off season Murphy started in leftfield. It was quickly obvious that as much as he had practiced his adventures in the outfield were just to costly to the Mets. Once Carlos Delgado was injured , Daniel took over at firstbase where he continued to make many defensive miscues including a memorable game against the Yankees of all teams when he made multiple errors on one play and also another in the game. Although he did make a spectacular play when he made a behind the back flip to a Mets pitcher covering first base.

In 2010 it is unsure if Murphy will play every day at first. His bat is well enough, although he does not fit in well at Citi Field.

-- Matthew Saur

Let's talk Lacrosse!

With the snow slowly disappearing across the campus, and the warmer weather heating things up into the month of March, goals are being scored by senior Joe Meo, and junior Nick Couric, leading the defending NCAA Division 2 National Champion, CW Post Pioneers, to an undefeated record overall at 4-0 and an ECC mark of 2-0, after capturing their latest victory at Hicox Field earlier today over the Mercy College Mavericks by a score of 12-3. The #1 CW Post Pioneers offer a wide array of talented goal scorers and a stifling defense that has held opponents to an average of 4.5 goals per game in the first 4 contests the Pioneers have engaged in in the 2010 season to date.

The stonewall that stands in net for the Pioneers, is a tough challenge to navigate through for Head Coach John Jez, as he has both junior Goalie, Mike Giordano, and junior, Dan Orlando, have both split the first 4 games of the season and both have held the majority of the playing time in net for the Pioneers. The defense of CW Post made things rather easy for Giordano in net against the Mercy College Mavericks as Giordano only had to make four saves in net today in just 51 minutes of game action. While Giordano has had just a minute and a half more of playing time over Dan Orlando, Orlando has a higher saves percentage at .680 while having to make 17 saves in net on the season so far and has allowed one less goal than Giordano.

CW Post will next play against Bentley University on March the 13th at 2:30PM.

One of the players CW Post must watch out for on the Bentley Falcons side of things is senior Attacker Kevin Gould. Gould was named to the second team All North East 10 and also named to the NEILA's Division II All-New England team. He led team in goals with 21, assists with 28, and overall team points with 49, throughout the 2009 season last year.

Opening up the 2010 season however, will be the #2 ranked CW Post Lady Pioneers at 11:30 AM, as they get set to take on Southern New Hampshire University Penmen out of the North East 10 also on this coming Saturday, March the 13th.

One of the big questions this year that will be placed onto the shoulders of the Lady Pioneers, will be looking to see who could step up in the absence of Katie Hogan and Jaclyn Napoli. Both Hogan and Napoli were seniors on the Pioneers 2009 squad and were two of the very best players in all of Women's Lacrosse last season as both were able to rack up an impressive amount of 173 points together out of the combined 490 points last season for CW Post. Napoli, boasted a total of 67 goals and 25 assists for a total of 92 points while Katie Hogan wasn't that far off with only 63 goals and just 18 assists at a total of 81 points for the Pioneers last season, while the next closest player was junior Staci Passafiume. Passafiume netted 29 goals last season and 46 assists for 75 points.

I'd be hardpressed to find another Jaclyn Napoli or Katie Hogan type player on this squad this year but some of the players that could help provide the punch to the success of the Pioneers this season could be Kim Williams and Ashley Olen. Williams, is entering her senior season at CW Post as a Defender. Williams was named the 2009 IWLCA Defender of the year last season with a total of 48 ground balls throughout the 2009 campaign. She also collected 20 draw controls and forced 21 turnovers last season for the Pioneers. As a freshman last season for the Pioneers, Ashley was able to net an impressive 36 goals for CW Post and 6 assists.

The Penmen of Southern New Hampshire were supposed to get their season started last weekend here on Long Island against Molloy, but due to a terrible snow storm that prevented such things from happening and now they will get the chance to open up their season against the Pioneers. Lucky them. The only player to watch out for that could cause some trouble for the Pioneers and junior goaltender Sam Powers, could be Maura Murphy. Murphy was one of the captains last season for SNHU, as she totaled 35 goals and 18 assists in 2009.

Both of these games can be heard starting with Women's Lacrosse at 11:15AM on March 13th with Nick Malone and Jayson Gieser on wcwpsports.com!

The fastest game on two feet is back! I'm pumped

Till next time,
I'm Nick Malone

C.W. Post NCAA Tournament Updates: Both Teams Out

Earlier tonight, the Division II NCAA brackets were announced for both the women and the men.

Unfortunately, the Lady Pioneers season has come to an end, after a fourth straight loss to Molloy on Saturday in the East Coast Conference semifinals, did them in.  C.W. Post finished their season with a record of 20-9, a seven win improvement from last year.  Despite Jasmine Moore and Gina Catherall graduating this spring, the Pioneers will welcome back Conference player of the Year Janea Aiken along with Felicia Joyner and Alyssa Lombardi.

Like the women, the men's team did not receive any better luck. After losing to Bridgeport earlier today in the ECC Finals, the Pioneers were immediately placed on the bubble. The men's regular season was also very successful as they finished 23-6. Seniors that are leaving include Nemanja Jokic and Roberto Macklin but Coach Cluess will be left with a very talented roster. ECC Rookie of the Year Jon Kohler along with Aaron Hall, and guards Billy Butler and Gilbert Montalvo are all set to return and once again have prominent roles.

PROGRAM ALERT: Make sure you check out C.W. Post Women's Basketball Head Coach Deirdre Moore on the Sportswire tomorrow night at 6 pm (EST) on 88.1 FM or on wcwpsports.com. Coach Moore will join us in studio to discuss the crushing loss to Molloy, her reaction to the Selection Show, and her thoughts on the season as a whole.  If you can't make the interview live, we'll be sure to post it on the blog for you to check it out.  

- Matt Soldano

Opening Day countdown

March madness will begin in a few days, but seam heads around the country wait for April. The Yanks and Mets are not down to 28 and 29 days away respectfully.

With the Yanks 28 days away from opening day vs the Red Sox on Easter , lets start with a recent 28. Melky Cabrera aka "The Melk man" for those who like John Sterling wore the number 28 2006-2008. Melky was called up to the show in 2005, and collected his first hit off Kevin Millwood.During his short time with the team in 2005 fans may remember that Melky dove for a ball hit by Trot Nixon at a game in Fenway Park that Melky missed and it rolled all the way to the wall leading to a bases clearing grand slam for Nixon. The Red Sox would romp the Yanks 17-1 that game and Melky would be sent back to the minors for the rest of the year. 2006 was the year Melky proved he was ready to shine in the big show. Hideki Matsui would break his wrist and be out for most of the season, Gary Sheffield would also get injuried and miss most of the season. With 2/3 of the starting outfield sidelined, Melky was called up and proved he could play in the big leagues starting off hot. On a hot June night agianst the Red Sox Melky would forever become a fan favorite, when with the game on the line and the Yanks up 2-1 Manny Ramirez crushed a Kyle Farnsworth fastball deep to leftcenter field. Melky leaped above the fence, robbing Ramirez of a game changing homerun.Melky would continue to start through out the season playing excellent defense and showing off his cannon of an arm. Come the playoffs with Matsui and Sheffield back, Melky was sent to the bench. Both returning outfielders struggled , and some felt although the term "murder's row and Cano" was used that Melky should have still been in the line up.In 2007 Melky didn't have to fight to be on the team and started the season as the 4th outfielder. Melky would see plenty of playing time when Johnny Damon and Jason Giambi suffered injuries.Melky would have another fine season in 2007, playing fine defense in all three outfield positions.
Before the start of the 2008 season, it looked as if the Melk man was going to be traded to the Twins for Johan Santana. A trade was never worked out so Melky stayed a Yankee and started in Center field. 2008 was a rough year for the Cabrera, he struggled at the plate after a hot start. Melky would lose his starting spot in centerfield to Johnny Damon and Brett Gardner. The season ended with Melky on the bench and his future with the Yankees uncertain.
Melky returned in 2009, and in spring training battled fellow blogger Max Caster's boy Brett Gardner for the starting job. Melky would start the season coming of the bench and occasionally starting agianst leftys. 2009 also came with Cabrera changing his number to 53 (it had been worn by Bobby Abreu previously). Even though Melky started the season off the bench, it wouldn't last long with Gardner struggling Melky returned to starting. Melky came up cluth in big situation early in the season hitting three walk off hits in a four week period. Melky came up with many big hits through out the season, he also hit for the cycle on August 2nd (my birthday). Cabrera was the first Yankee to hit for the cycle since Tony Fernandez in 1995.Melky would get hurt during the World Series and miss the clinching game. Following the celebration of the championship, Cabrera was sent to the Atlanta Braves for Javier Vazquez. With the Braves Melky has the possibility of starting in Leftfield.
Melky was always a fan favorite (one of mine) for his easy going, fun loving personality.Melky would often be seen joking around with fellow teammates doing stupid dances, or wearing sun flower seed boxes on his head(don't believe me look it up on google images). At times Melky would take it to far , like in 2008 when during the bleacher creature roll call Melky waved to them while trying to scoop up a ground ball. The ball hit off his glove and allowed the runner to get an extra base. Melky will be missed for his lovable and clumsy personality along with his nack for the big hit.

29 days till the Mets take on the Marlins. If you didn;t get your tickets hope on it, since today Mets tickets went on sale at Mets.com.Past tenured Mets to wear 29 was Steve Trachsel.After playing with the Cubs, Rays and Blue Jays to start his career, Trachsel became a Met in 2001. Trachsel struggled at first and was eventually sent to the minor. He came back to the big leagues at the end of the 2001 season and pitched better. Steve continued to pitch well in 2002 and 2003, even though his record always didn't show it, he had a low ERA and had very little run support.Trachsel became injured with a back injury and missed most of the 2005 season. Traschel returned in 2006 to post 15 wins, on a team that would lead be tied to have the most wins in the majors. Traschel struggled alot in 2006, and the fans had enough often booing him even though, he would win alot of games due to lots of run support. Following the 2006 season Trachsel was not resigned with the Mets and went to the Baltimore Orioles. Trachsel will always be remebered by Mets fans for his awfully slow style of pitching. He would take so long causeing fans to lose intrest in the game.
--Matthew Saur

ECC Tournament is Crazy!

Not that crazy, actually.

But I've added to my collection of pictures with mascots with this snapshot of me with the Dowling Golden Lion:



Courtesy: Matt Soldano's Blackberry

I'll try to get more pics up today and tomorrow, given the CW Post Pioneers advance to the finals.

We have wall-to-wall coverage of the CW Post Pioneers in the ECC Tournament on WCWP. 1:30pm EST our coverage starts with Lady Pioneers Pregame. The game between the women and the Molloy Lions begins at 2:30. After that, it's "The Real" Patrick Creighton, Nick "Stone" Malone and Dan "Poppa-Weilly" Weil until 6:30. Then it's our men's pregame followed by the CW Post men's team against the Queens College Knights.

Listen in HERE.

UPDATE: Here's the Brigdeport Knights getting ready to come back from halftime. They were down 5 at the break:



There is a great spread of free food for us media types. The best thing about it is it's free. Here is a shot to make you jealous. I feel bad for that man eating by himself though:




I got myself some treats:



More to come.

Listen in HERE.


UPDATE: Bridgeport wins the first game of the day, 50-45 over Dowling. Here's what it looked like:




More to come.

Listen in HERE.


UPDATE: Our favorite women's basketball Coach Dierdre Moore is getting interviewed by the ECC about how her CW Post Pioneers need to play Molloy today:



Starting lineups announced. The Pratt Center is loud:



More to come.

Listen in HERE.


UPDATE: The Lady Pioneers lost to Molloy for the fourth time this year. They also lose their spot in the ECC Tournament and maybe even a shot at the NCAA Tournament.

I had to stop uploading pictures. My phone is my camera and I don't have a charger, ha! I'll be prepared for tomorrow when it's the ECC Finals or Pioneers LAX.

I'll try to get the photos of the ECC Year-End Awards Ceremony online tonight.

The men's game is starting at 7:30pm EST. Check it out!

Listen in HERE.


--Max Caster

Opening Day countdown

Hello there agian, With the baseball season underway with Spring Training the next step is Opening Day. I have always felt Opening Day in New York should be a holiday, but i'll save that for a diffrent post.
The Yankees are down to 30 days away till they open the season in fenway.The current 30 on the Yanks is David Robertson, i don't know if i could fill out a whole blog entry about him. An older Yankee who once wore the pinstripes and 30 is Willie Randolph. Younger fans may remember Randolph for his time as manager with the Mets, which ended embarressing. Randolph was born in Brooklyn, orginally drafted by the Pirates but would be traded to the Yanks after one season. With the Yankees the Brooklyn born Randolph became a fan favorite playing second base and hitting either lead off or second. Randolph was always a leader in the clubhouse during his Yankee, and that would lead to him being named captin as the Yankee from 1986-1988. Following his Yankee career, Randolph would spend four more seasons in the majors before retiering.Not longer after retirement Randolph would return to the Yankees as a coach. Randolph was a coach on all four of the Yankee championship teams during the recent dyanasty. Following the 2004 season as Joe Torre's bench coach, Willie would get his first chance to become a big league manager on the other side of town with the Mets.Randolph lead the Mets to the 2006 NLCS were they were the favorite but would lose to the Cardinals in a classic 7 game series.Randolph was embarrissingly fired in 2008 after a rocky start. After a win in june Randolph was fired at 3am eastern time, while out on the west coast. I like to call it the Willie curse because since then the Mets have struggled and have had many embarressing things happen to there organization.



just 31 days away from the Mets opener. 31 will one day be retired for the Mets and was last worn by Mike Piazza. The Mets added Piazza to there team in 1998 by trade with the Florida Marlins. Piazza turned around the franchise and took the Mets to another level. Although they missed the playoffs in 1998 by one game there was plenty to be optomistic about and in the two seasons the Mets would make the NLCS in 1999 and to the World Series in 2000. During the 2000 World Series Piazza and Clemens almost came to blows. Clemens broke Piazza's bat and then picked it up and tossed it at him, this was also after during the season Clemens had drilled Piazza in the head with a fastball.The combo would have to be battery mates in 2004 at the All Star game. My favorite Piazza moment was in 2001 following the Septemeber 11th attacks in the first baseball game back Piazza hit a go ahead homerun in the bottom of the 8th to lift the spirts in New York, having an ending to the game that was story book-esque. Once Art Howe took over as manager he planned to switch the troubled, yet greatest hitting catcher into a first baseman. The only thing was Howe told the media , before he told Piazza. Piazza struggled at first before it the experiment stopped. At the final home game in 2005 Mets fans gave Piazza a standing ovation in what was his final game as a Met. Although i never got to see Seaver or the 1986 Mets play , I feel that Piazza easily is the best player to ever play for the Mets and in a few years Piazza will head into the Hall of Fame wearing the Mets cap
--Matthew Saur

Opening day countdown !

Ahh its that time again, you can feel it in the air. Opening day should be starting up very soon ! To be exact its 31 days for the boys in the Bronx and 32 for the kids in Flushing.
With 31 days till the opener in fenway park, 31 is not exactly a Yankee number that sticks out in your mind. Recently Ian Kennedy has had it but that doesn't bring back any fond memory's. Others that have worn it recently include Edwar Ramirez who was designated for assignment a few days ago with the signing of Chan Ho Park and Aaron Small who will forever hold a place in the heart of Yankee fans for his great performance down the stretch in 2005. But the biggest star to wear 31 is Hall of Famer Dave Winfield. If you are a young Yanks fan you may not know much about Derek Jeter's favorite player growing up. Winfield started his career with the Sand Diego Padres but in 1981 as a free agent he signed with the Yankees. At the time George Steinbrenner gave Winfield a record deal of 10 years 23 million, this would start a long crazy relationship between the two.
The following season Winfield led the Yanks to the World Series were he would struggle against the Dodgers, who would win the World Series. Steinbrenner was angry over how his $23 million superstar only got one hit.That and the fact that the Yanks would not make the playoffs for the rest of Winfield stint as a Yankee cause Steinbrenner to rip him and call him "Mr.May" referring to his late season struggles. Although i was not around at the time, it seems as if Winfield was like A-Rod nowadays always finding himself into the spotlight. In the summer of 1983 Winfield was warming up before an inning throwing , when he accidentally hit a seagull killing it. Following the game he was arrested and charged with cruelty to animals , a charge that would eventually be dropped.The last part of Winfield's career with the Yanks closed on a low note. In 1990 it was discovered that Steinbrenner was working with a man who had mafia connection, through that man he was looking for him to dig up dirt on Winfield. Steinbrenner would be banned from baseball for two years and Winfield would be traded ending his Yankee career.Since the end of his career in 1996 Winfield was inducted into the Hall of Fame as a Padre in 2001. I feel that he should be in as a Yankee but possibly because of his poor relationship with Steinbrenner, made him go in as a Padre. Winfield more recently can be seen on ESPN's Baseball Tonight.

The Mets look to fillet the fish in 32 days. 32 hasn't been the most popular number with the Mets most recently worn by Carlos Muniz. An older 32 would take us back to the great year of 2000. Mike Hampton was traded to the Mets that season and would go 15-10 and be the ace of the National League Champions. Met fans may remember that Hampton was a great hitting pitcher hitting .274 that season. Hampton had a great season and it would carry over to the post season when he was the NLCS MVP going 2-0 with a 0.00 ERA to carry the Mets to the World Series. Following the 2000 season Hampton became a free agent getting a crazy $121 million from the Colorado Rockies over 8 years.His performance declined and had many arm injuries that would sideline him for periods of time missing the entire 2006 and 2007 seasons. In 2009 Hampton returned to the Houston Astros the team he first had success with, Hampton would make 21 starts pitching to a 7-10 record with an ERA of 5.30, In late September Hampton would hurt his rotators cuff and be out all of the 2010 season. Instead of retiring Hampton claims he will make a comeback in 2011.
--Matthew Saur

Web-Only Content: Adam Jahns previews Islanders/Blackhawks

Adam Jahns from the Chicago Sun-Times previews tonights Islanders/Blackhawks game...

Powered by Podbean.com

Opening day countdown

Welcome back to another post about numbers, baseball and reminiscing. Well back to the point... The Yankees are 33 days away from the start of the season, 33 has seen alot of use the past decade plus. David Wells threw a perfect game during his time wearing it, Jose Canseco had it while winning a championship in 2000 and later embarressing himself and baseball by writing books about steriods.Brian Bruney has the number for a while during his injury filled time, so did the likes of Kelly Stinnet and Jaret Wright.Alfonso Soriano had the number his rookie season, and Nick Swisher currently has it.So as i mentioned the number has changed hands alot, one player i didn't mention was recently reaquired Yankee Javier Vazquez.
Vazquez no longer will wear the number 33 due to Swisher having it but during the season of 2004 Vazquez had it. Vazquez will always be remebered for coming into game 7 in 2004 vs Boston and giving up a grandslam to Johnny Damon that put the dagger in the Yanks hearts. The real man to blame for that was Kevin Brown who loaded those bases for Javy and Joe Torre because earlier in the season Damon had homered off Vazquez twice in a game. Many forget the Vazquez was elected to the All Star game that season, and had pitched great until after the break. Recently Vazquez said that he had a shoulder problem during that time and tryed to keep pitching through it. Also a little bit of another bad memory but Vazquez also started that 22-0 game agianst the Indians that season. Following the 2004 season the Yanks dealt him away to Arizona for Randy Johnson, a trade that now seems to be an even deal since Johnson was a lighning rod in NY since day one and Javier would move teams two more times(White Sox and Braves). The Yanks saw an oppertunity this off season to add Vazquez back and did just that, adding him while subtracting only Melky Cabrera. It is unsure if Javier will return to 2004 form when he struggled at times and was inconsistant or his 2009 form with the Braves where he finished 4th in the Cy Young voting. This season Vazquez plans to wear 31.



The Mets will start the new season April 5th just 34 days away. 34 is currently used by Mike Pelfrey. Pelfrey also known as "Big Pelf" was first brough up in 2006 when he would make a few starts and ended the year 2-1 with an ERA around 5. The start of 2007 was rough for the big Pelf he started out 0-6 as the Mets fifth started and eventually was demoted to AAA. Pelfrey was recalled in september and pitched well enough to make an impression on the Mets staff to make him part of there 2008 rotation. 2008 was a brand new start for Mike and sure enough he had his best season going 13-11 and a 3.72 ERA. Pelfrey is known for his odd antics on the mound, during the 2008 season and prior
Pelfrey would always be seem chewing and playing with a mouthpeice. Pelfrey has also been known to lick his hand alot during his time on the mound, if you listen to Boomer and Carton on WFAN you would know that they make fun of his for that often. In 2009 Pelfrey was counted on to play a larger role in the Mets rotation. A sign of things to come was when on Opening day at Citi Field Pelfrey was on the mound and he just fell down, tripping over his feet, that summed up his entire season. Although Mike was the only Met starter to not go on the DL the entire year he battled inconsistancy and lack of run support, he would eventually finsih the year going 10-12 with an ERA of 5.02. This season once agian big pelf will be counted on to regain his 2008 form and lead the Mets into October.

Until next time
--Matthew Saur

The countdown till opening day

Welcome back agian to another day of the countdown to opening day! The Yanks have just 34 more days before they kick the season off. AJ Burnett pitched decent for the bombers last season. He had his ups and downs, sadly it seems as if my memory's are more on the down side. Burnett could not get into a ryhthem the entire time that he pitched to Jorge Posada eventually leading to having Jose Molina as his personal catcher. This even went over into the postseason were Burnett pitched well in ALDS game 2, ALCS game 2 and World Series Game 2. But Burnett struggled in two games in the postseason and they were both series clinchers. In both ALCS game 5 and WS game 5 Burnett was lite up. The other thing that drives me crazy about Burnett is that he throws so many pitches and walks so many guys that he ushally can't pitch deep into games. But I'm sure that most Yanks fans would'nt mind a repeat of last seasons performance.




The Mets have 35 days till there opener at Citi Field. The Mets have not had any big names wear 35 recently, Joe Smith had the number in 2007 and 2008. The man with the common name had a nice season in 2008 going 6-3 with a 3.55 ERA especially in a year that the Mets bullpen had many meltdowns and struggled to the point Luis Ayala became an important part ( scratching your head to figure out he is, well you should be). Smith had a unique submarine type pitching style that worked real well agianst right handed batters.Smith was involved in the three way trade following the 2008 season that brought J.J Putz to the Mets, in the deal Smith landed with the Indians.

--Matt Saur