Season Preview - AL West

Technically, the season started today, so there's no further room for delay on a preview.  The A's and Mariners kicked things off, so let's start there, the AL West.  First, the defending champs...

Texas Rangers






2011: 96-66, AL West Champs, AL Champs
2011 Pythagorean: 98-64
2012 Over/Under: 91.5
My Pick: OVER

Key Additions:
P Yu Darvish
P Joe Nathan

Key Losses:
P C.J. Wilson
P Darren Oliver

2012 Offseason Wrapup

The Rangers have established themselves as the new power in the AL West, as evidenced by their repeat trips to the World Series.  They've got the talent at the big league level to compete for rings in the near future, and the farm system to maintain dominance once they get there.

The biggest loss this team suffered is their ace, C.J. Wilson.  It's hard to call him a true ace, though he was the best pitcher on the team and obvious leader of the staff.  He's very good, but was maybe the 4th best pitcher in the division, much less in the top 5% of the league.  To that end, if the scouting reports on this kid Darvish turn out to be true, he should at least provide a value-equal replacement to Wilson.  A much more interesting change is the swapping of Ogando and Feliz between the rotation and the bullpen.  Feliz was groomed as a starter and pressed into closing duty as team needs dictated.  Now that Adams and Nathan are in the fold, the RHRP role is well-filled and Feliz can return to the rotation.  He's expected to continue some measure of the dominance he showed in the bullpen, and that will be a bigger story on the pitching staff than anything short of a complete Darvish blow-out.

On offense, they're the same team as last year's that ranked 3rd in the AL in runs scored, which is a good thing, but not without questions.  The two biggest are whether Napoli can repeat his breakout season and whether Hamilton can put together anything resembling a complete season.  Kinsler, Young, Andrus, and Beltre are among the best at their respective positions, though Young is due for decline, and the outfield of Cruz, Hamilton, and Otherguy (Borbon/Gentry/etc) is not a problem.  Good offense is good.

2012 TEX rookie of the year: Darvish is the layup here, and it's kinda dumb that he's rookie-eligible, so I'll disregard him for these purposes.  Instead, I'll go with Martin Perez, LHSP.  He's one of the guys that made Erlin and Wieland, two quality pitchers flipped for Adams, expendable.  He's on the 40-man and is who I think should be the first man up in case of an injury in the major league rotation.  Other names to watch for:  Tanner Scheppers - RHRP, Leonys Martin - OF, Neil Ramirez - RHSP

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Los Angeles Angels
(of Anaheim Orange County California blah blah)

2011: 86-76
2011 Pythagorean: 85-77
2012 Over/Under: 92.5
My Pick: UNDER

Key Additions
1B Albert Pujols
P C.J. Wilson
P LaTroy Hawkins
C Chris Iannetta

Key Losses
P Joel Pineiro
P Fernando Rodney
P Tyler Chatwood

2012 Offseason Overview

I really don't need to say much about the Angels to preface.  In one day, they spent the most money in one offseason since the Yanks reeled in CC and Tex in the same offseason.  So yes, they'll be better than last year.  They have to be.  I just don't think it'll be enough.

So maybe you've heard of this Pujols guy.  Helped the Cards to two rings and one other NL Championship?  Yeah, he's good.  Can't argue that.  Thing is, I don't think he's enough better than Trumbo or Morales that he'll propel this team right into the playoffs.  They still probably get in with the 5th playoff spot in play, but I don't see them actually posing a serious threat to the Rangers' division title hopes.  The reason I don't think it's enough is because first base was already their best offensive position - the problem lay with the other 8 offensive players.  Wells, Hunter, and Abreu make up a wonderful outfield circa 2005, but they're collectively losing their tasty red center.  Bourjos is possibly the best defensive CF in the majors, or is at least top 5, so he'll get playing time, but he's not an offensive asset.  The same can be said about the rest of the offense - Callaspo's empty .366 OBP led the team among regulars, and if your 2B has the highest OPS on your team and he's not Cano or Utley, it doesn't speak well of you.  When you have a mediocre offense, signing the best offensive player of the generation is never a bad idea, and considering the layout of the rest of the team, it was the only position to upgrade this offseason.  But it's not enough.

I think the pitching is much the same story.  It never hurts to add the best pitcher available in the offseason, and Wilson will be the second-best #3 starter in the league - sorry, rather have Hamels - but the value over his potential replacement isn't enough to make it worth the money.  Weaver, Haren, and Big Erv were already the centerpiece of this team, and were the reason the team won 85 last year.  Is Wilson more than a couple wins better than Jerome Williams, Garrett Richards, or Trevor Bell?  I don't think so.

2012 LAA rookie of the year: Mike Trout, OF - and there's really no other way to go here.  Yeah, Richards might be a nice player, and someone else might step up and make us take notice, but any prognosticator has to take Trout.  In any other season, he's be a shoo-in for AL ROY, but this Moore kid in Tampa is a bit of a speed bump on that road.  Trout will force himself into the big league lineup sooner than later, and he'll be up to stay.  Check back next year for a more challenging pick.  Other names to watch:  Richards - RHSP, Jean Segura - SS

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Oakland Athletics





2011: 74-88
2011 Pythagorean: 77-85
2012 Over/Under: 71.5
My Pick: UNDER

Key Additions
OF Yoenis Cespedes
OF Seth Smith
OF Josh Reddick
DH Manny Ramirez
P Bartolo Colon

Key Losses
P Andrew Bailey
P Gio Gonzalez
P Trevor Cahill
OF Josh Willingham
OF David DeJesus

2012 Offseason Overview

The A's have sent a clear message: it's time to rebuild.  Trading Cahill and Gonzalez brought back many nice pieces and replenished the farm system from a middle-bottom level to in the one of the top 6 or 7 systems.  And that's great to hear, since being in the middle is a place that's untenable unless you're really on the way up.  So they sold off their three most marketable pieces, got younger, and are now going to try to push back toward the top, though LA and TEX will make it hard for many years to come.

The pitching staff was hit the hardest.  Gonzalez and Cahill were the two remaining quality healthy members on the staff, and now they're off to the NL.  Bailey was a quality reliever and now he replaces Papelbon.  Braden and Anderson are the next two best pitchers, and both are recovering from Tommy John.  Of course, McCarthy is a quality pitcher, and about any team would have room for him in their rotation, but when he's your #1, that doesn't say much for your present hopes for competing.   I'm guessing at least 8 pitchers will have 5 starts for the A's over the course of the year.  It's time to experiment.  Throw the kids out there and see who wants it.

Offensively, the theme is pretty much the same.  Unfortunately, they're a bunch of young guys that are getting into put-up-or-shut-up contract regions.  Weeks, Pennington, and Suzuki have got a year or two under their belt, and arbitration looms.  Crisp is what he is.  It's a shame what happened to Sizemore, but I don't think the team will lose out too badly.  The one interesting point on the offense is Cespedes.  YouTube phenomenon that he is, he's going to hav67- a chance to live up to the hype right away, despite some evaluators saying he should start the year in AA.  He has the talent to bring this team a lot closer to .500 than I'd like to believe, but it's hard to believe he'll make it happen right away.  My expectation is that he'll show us - more importantly, San Jose fans - something to get excited about.  Next year, he'll be ready to take the league by storm.  But not yet.

2012 OAK rookie of the year: Cespedes has already had enough words devoted to him here, and he's the only choice, to be honest.  Brad Peacock, Jarrod Parker, and Tom Milone all came over in those offseason trades, and although only Milone made the opening day rotation, he's the least talented of the three.  They could be the building blocks of the next big rotation of Oakland lore.  Other names: Collin Cowgill - OF, Derek Norris - C

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Seattle Mariners

2011: 67-95
2011 Pythagorean: 67-95
2012 Over/Under: 72
My Pick: OVER

Key Additions:
C Jesus Montero
P Hector Noesi

Key Losses:
P Michael Pineda


2012 Offseason Overview

The Mariners have been a dearth of offense ever since their last division title in '01.  They've been 13th or worse in the AL in runs scored 7 times in the 11 seasons since then, bottoming out to historic levels in the past two seasons by failing to score even 600 runs.  They might reach that lofty plateau this year, but even that assures the Mariners will be continue to be bad.  The Mariners have benefited from their pitching-friendly ballpark with a quality staff and solid defense, which will also continue this year.  Much like Oakland, this team will be all about developing youngsters and looking toward the future.

There are two names every baseball fan knows on Seattle.  The young one is Felix Hernandez, anchor of the staff.  While he may be subject of trade rumors - again - as the Yankees continually lust after the best of other team's labors, he is yet still the Mariners' frontman.  Without Pineda to back him up for the near future, the staff takes a significant hit, but there is help on the way.  Vargas was a solid pitcher last year, and Noesi was underrated for the Yankees last year and will benefit from spacious Safeco.  Old Man Millwood is just keeping a spot warm for the youngsters - last year's #2 overall pick Danny Hultzen was drafted there primarily for the speed with which he was expected to reach the majors.  There have been no indications that those expectations will not come to fruition, with Hultzen likely to end the year in the rotation, though he may not begin it there.  Also on the way is James Paxton, one-time participant in the never-ending battle between the NCAA and amateurism.  Both figure to cut their teeth this year with an eye toward making an impact next season and paying off the faith Hernandez has shown in the organization.

Offensively, the biggest story is Montero.  The rookie comes over from the Yankees and instantly is the biggest power threat in the offense.  Yeah, the stories have persisted that Ichiro could hit for power if he so desired, but his age may make that prohibitive anyway, though he still has a very productive amount of speed.  Behind those two, young Ackley needs to take another step forward to prove himself a proper complimentary piece and table-setter for Montero.  Aside from those three, the rest of the offense is deplorable.  Three players from last year return to the starting lineup after sporting sub-.300 OBP numbers.  One of which even batted below the Mendoza line, and is even now going to be leading off in an absolutely baffling decision - I'm looking at you, Chone Figgins.  There's a lot of good defense here, but those defenders such as Figgins, Ryan, and Gutierrez need to show a pulse on offense to start winning some games.  Finally, it's time for Smoak to step up.  The focal point of the Cliff Lee trade a couple years ago, he's gotta start paying off or he will be replaced.

2012 SEA rookie of the year:  Montero, C/DH will be expected to carry the offense from day 1 and has the talent to live up to that.  He's been the best offensive prospect in the "non-Bryce Harper" category for the past two years and should flex that ability, even in the pitchers' paradise that is Safeco.  Other names: Hultzen - RHSP, Paxton - RHSP, Vinny Catricala - 3B


All images were taken from BaseballProspectus.com and are property of Major League Baseball

Eastern Conference and Finals Prediction

As promised, The Eastern Conference.
Keep in mind I am very West Coast Bias.

1. Chicago Bulls
Old school basketball is working as a charm would for the Bulls, I don't think there has been a point in this season where they haven't possessed the best record in the league (not a fact).
Despite the returning MVP really being absent the Bulls play hard defense, run an extremely organized offensive system, and are very well disciplined by Head Coach Tom Thibodeau.

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8. New York Knicks
Nobody wants the Bulls in any round of the playoffs.  These two teams would make for a very entertaining opening round.  Carmello, Amare, J.R. Smith, Baron Davis, and yes, Linsanity all make for quality scoring options if an offense is implemented to make them all happy.  Buckets will not come easy, as the Bulls pride themselves on their defense.  Tyson Chandler will have to motivate the rest of the team to put forth matching efforts on the defensive end in order to be competitive.

2. Miami Heat
I loath this team.  We know about the "Big Three".  Is Mario Chalmers going to play at the level his Jayhawks are playing?  Can Shane Battier hit clutch three's and continue to play great defense?  Can the streaky James Jones get hot at the right time?  Popular opinion states that this is their year, we'll see if they live up to their own expectations and come away with a championship.

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7. Boston Celtics
This is the last team Boston wants.  Getting older and fading away from the recent glory years, this seems to be the end of the line for the NBA's most recent dynasty.  Boston will need to find a way to change the rules to make every basket double in points for them to win this series.

To the Boston Celtics and Fans,
You only won one title, you are not the best team ever as you seem to personify yourself to be.  You can thank the beloved Kevin Garnett for the rings you possess.  Please return KG to the Timberwolves so he may lead a young team to a championship and fade away into the sunset that is basketball royalty.
Many thanks,
Wolves Fans.

3. Orlando Magic
The Magic will be abiding by the 'Live by the three, and die by the three' policy.
Lets list shooters:
J.J. Redick and Chris Duhon both are former Duke Blue Devils who have made a living behind the ark.
Ryan Anderson is a poor mans Kevin Love with a solid ability to hit from distance.
Quentin and Jason Richardson are both players who need to hang it up soon.  Both players are not hesitant to pull the trigger.
Hedu Turkoglu and Jameer Nelson will be responsible for distributing, as well as Dwight Howard.  Dwight remains a presence on the defensive end to go along with his stagnant offensive skill set.  Teams are finding success in letting the leagues biggest mouth get his points, rather than doubling so he may kick out to any of the listed spot up shooters.

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6. Atlanta Hawks
Can anyone tell if this team cares about winning?  Josh Smith wanted out earlier in the season.  Joe Johnson called out Hawks fans for not showing up to playoff games.  Teague is on the rise as a scoring point guard.  Atlanta will need to be in rare mental form to compete.  Depth is a question with this team as well.  Johnson has the talent to be a top five superstar in the league.  Johnson, Smith, and Teague have heavy responsibility to put the ball in the basket.  If Atlanta comes together as a team on both ends of the floor and the city shows up to support them I believe they could be a sleeping giant in the playoffs.  Winners of four in a row, I place the Wildcard label here.

4. Philadelphia 76ers
Very young, very talented, and very dangerous the 76ers have played great basketball all season long.
I have a man crush on Jrue Holiday's game.  Jrue is a relentless point guard on both ends of the floor and has an uncanny feel for the game.  We've seen Lou Williams ability to provide 6th man of the year type of scoring.  If not for James Harden, Lou wins the award hands down.  Andre Iguodala (University of Arizona) continues to be flashy.  'Iggy's scoring numbers aren't anything eye opening, he makes up for it with solid defensive play.  Evan Turner, Elton Brand, Thaddeus Young, and Jodie Meeks all help make Philly a very complete squad.  A noticeable flaw with the 76ers is their lack of veteran leadership.  Limited post-season experience may haunt this up-and-coming Eastern Conference power.

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5. Indiana Pacers
The Pacers have quietly paced their way to a very impressive season.  David West is showing that he can still ball with the best of them in his eighth year.  Mid-season acquisition Leandro Barbosa has a 6th man of the year award under his belt. His ability to score and run an offense will be pivotal, the team lacks depth at the floor general position.  No, I do not think Darren Collison is ready to get it done at a high level, yet.  Paul George has exploded and will get his buckets.

The Pacers and 76ers will both benefit greatly from going head to head in the opening round.  Both teams are very young, on the rise, and will be able to take away valuable basketball lessons that cannot be taught at the college level or during the regular season.

A Miami Heat vs Chicago Bulls Eastern Conference Finals is expected out of almost everyone in the world that is the NBA.  It may be due to my desire to really dissect the match-ups out east, which is none, but i believe that this is more of a wide open race than it would appear.  Orlando may make it rain from behind the ark.  A young team like the 76ers may find their place on the big stage.  The Knicks could magically come together as a team and play on both ends of the floor.  There seems to be a growing amount of parody surging all around the league and I expect it to show come playoff time.

I like the Heat and the Thunder meeting in the finals.  The Bulls are a team likely to choke under a strenuous six or seven game series.  I don't notice a killer instinct that will allow them to blow teams out and make things easier on themselves.  Oklahoma City is just too talented to pick against.  Since the team moved from Seattle the Thunder have been a great organization for the NBA.  The Thunder are built to play the role of 'The Hero' matched up against 'The Villain' Miami Heat.  I am a LeBron hater.  I do not want to see the Heat celebrating at the end of what has been a fantastic season.



By the way, 3 of 4 final four teams in my bracket.  Ohio State winning it all would make it look REAL good.

I Love Basketball

If you could pick any...

If you could pick any player in the history of your favorite sport, and insert them into your favorite team of a particular season, what two options would you pick?  Technically, if you feel like you loved Babe Ruth, and believed that he was the missing piece on the 2002 Minnesota Twins baseball team, go ahead and select him.  If you are an Arsenal fan, and think that Leo Messi is the difference between now and greatness do that too.  This is something that I've always thought about, just because generally in the past, my favorite players haven't played for my favorite teams.  I.e. Zizou, Barry Bonds, Walter Payton, Allen Iverson, etc.

Still thinking about it, but I think at this particular time, I would put the 1999-01 Marshall Faulk on last season's Packers team.  There is no doubt in my mind that my football team has a huge weakness, and that is we may have an over reliance on our quarterback, one Aaron Rodgers.  (MVP in any case). That Marshall Faulk of Rams past was simply brilliant.  He scored 37 rushing touchdowns, had 22! receiving touchdowns, had just under 7,000 total yards from the line of scrimmage, and missed 2 games in both 2000 and 2001. (Imagine if injuries didn't curtail his career).  He was filthy.  So, in that regard, I feel like my team's only missing link is a running back of that quality.

Barry Sanders was also amazing.  But in 10 seasons he only had 10 receiving touchdowns, which for me would hinder what the Green Bay Packers offense attempts to do.  Think if only we didn't have to throw screen passes to James Starks all the time...

I also liked Tony Dorsett's numbers and his size.  He was consistent, and actually caught 400 balls in his career.  But the only other running backs I considered realistically were Eric Dickerson and Adrian Peterson.

Dickerson led the league in yards 4 times before turning 30.  Not rushing yardage, but total yardage.  But his teams never won; he was just an offensive machine.  He also carried the ball 400 times in one season.

Adrian is what you would think of as an anti-style running back for these Green Bay Packers, but check this out. In five seasons he has almost 7,000 yards, and might have if not for the ACL tear.  He has yet to start all 16 games in one season.  He has double digit touchdowns in every season unlike all the other aforementioned running backs.  Since his fumble jig, he's only lost the ball twice in 491 carries, and it only once resulted in a turnover.  This beast on my team would be unstoppable.  But yeah, Marshall was something that doesn't show up in numbers.  He was never afraid to do anything that the team asked.  He lined up at wide out, in the slot, at full back and even threw 2 passes (both incomplete).  I think he would fit in the team just fine.

http://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/the-best-nfl-running-backs-of-all-time

(2/2) ng. Erin Henderson signs a one year deal with Vikings, and I confessed my love for LaRod Stephens howling!

(1/2) Just finished having an unexpected chat at my place of employment with Mr. Reflective. I am testing this 'mobile blog' feature I signed up for this morni

Playoffs!?

In the West

1. Oklahoma City
The young emerging Thunder bring a very talented starting 5.  Kevin Durant has the ability to score at will but the question has always been; Does Russel Westbrook have the ability to shoot less?! The addition of veteran Derick Fisher (whom I despise more than any player in the league) may provide the mentor-ship role that Westbrook needs.  It is pretty simple Russel, pass the ball.
When does James Harden become a starter?  Fear the Beard.

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8. Utah, Phoenix, Minnesota, Houston, or Portland? Maybe Denver?
If the season ended today, Denver would hold the 7th seed and Houston the 8th.
The season doesn't end today, so it will be a tight race until the end.  The teams from top to bottom are separated by only 3.5 games. 

For the post sake lets say the Timberwolves make the playoffs, they provide a unique match-up and a tough out for any team in the post season. If the bench steps up and plays defense we may see a 8 prevail over a 1 if someone is able to channel their inner Baron Davis.

2. San Antonio
With the addition of a now rejuvenated Stephen Jackson the Spurs are again a threat in the playoffs.  A very energetic bench is a perfect supporting cast for the veteran starting line up the Spurs possess.

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7. Utah
Now winners of 5 in a row, the Jazz are in because they play team basketball.  The defensive effort particularly at home goes unmatched.  Can they find a "take over" guy they need to overcome a tough Spurs team?

3. L.A. Lakers
Could  Ramon Sessions be a more perfect fit for the 'Lake Show'?
As big of a roller coaster season it may be, the Lakers are still the Lakers and Kobe is still Kobe.  The two trees inside are a match-up nightmare to any team in a seven game series.  Look for big things from "The Masked Mamba"

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6. L.A. Clippers
David Stern's mouth is watering at the thought of this possible "Gridlock Series"
Falling apart of the seems losing 3 in a row, most recently in New Orleans the Clippers have some things to figure out.  Full of ally-oops and jump shots, the Clip Show simply doesn't have a go to aspect of their game.  Other than the alias known as 'Lob City' they don't do anything specifically well.  Will they become a lock-down defensive team?  Do they have an offensive set to get them big buckets at the end of games?
Time will tell.

4. Dallas
The term "Just get in" perhaps applies most to the not-to-be-forgotten Defending Champs.
The play of Frenchman Rodrigue Beauboi's off the bench will be key in jump starting the scoring out of Dallas.  Dirk, Jason Kidd, Jason Terry (JT the Jet Plane, University of Arizona) are going to get theirs, but who else can step up for Dallas

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5. Memphis
Zach Randolf is a beast, plain and simple.  He states that Memphis is a force to be reckoned with come playoff time, and he is correct.  The question, much like last year, will be the scoring for the Grizz.  Can 'Agent 10' (University of Arizona) revamp his career and take over a playoff series?
Memphis plays great defense.  Tony Allen is a lock-down machine and can hit clutch 3's when they need it.  Gasol and Randolf's interior play will carry Memphis as far as they are going to go.


It is the Thunder's Western Conference to lose.  The team coming out of the east will be matched-up against a very beat up, tired, and tested team.  Things will be very tight and buckets will not come easy come playoff time. 

Anyone else excited?

Eastern Conference Preview soon, West is Best.

Best wishes to Ricky Rubio.

The "Big 4"

So according to all the experts (and perhaps even myself), there are 4 legit quarterbacks available this off-season. They are: Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III, Peyton Manning and Matty Flynn.  These are the players that are believed to be the difference makers, and that any team making a move for them, has an opportunity to compete for a Super Bowl.

I don't really believe this.  So after today, it is known that Peyton will lead the Broncos charge next season, Matty Flynn will run the west coast offense in Seattle, Andrew Luck will start the Indy rebuild, and Mr.Griffin will be running things in D.C.  For the next five years, legitimately, I believe only the Denver Broncos have a shot at the super bowl.  Even Peyton Manning only went 3-13 in his rookie season.  That being said, I completely understand why every team made the moves that they did.  Denver really is almost there.  They play in a division in which they can win 10-11 games per season with Peyton, similar to the Colts when the Texans and Jaguars weren't competing annually in the AFC South.  The Chiefs, Raiders and Chargers are all decent, but none of those organizations have the stability or the coaching to win double digit games year after year.

The Seattle Seahawks strike me as a team that could pull one Super Bowl run from this group a la Mike Holmgren/Matt Hassleback, but this means they will have to beat Rodgers, Brees and Eli along the way.  Or at least one of the 3.  Ask Matt Ryan how easy that is... Yet, I do like the direction they are going.  Pete Carroll got rid of all the salary hungry players, and replaced them with guys that just enjoy playing football games.  Now I'm interested to see which category Marshawn Lynch falls into, after getting that nice deal.  For the most part though, they can be good.  Just not scary great.

The Indianapolis Colts have been one of the top 5 most stable organizations for a long time.  Year in and year out, we knew that they were going to be in the playoffs.  That's impressive, considering that 40% of the teams do on a yearly basis.  Now they decided to fire the General Manager, the coaches (mostly), and cut many of the players from that great run.  I like Andrew Luck.  He is probably the best college prospect that I have ever seen.  He can run an offense on his own, his decision-making is NFL ready, he has a great knack for avoiding the pass rush just like some other Stanford alum, and on top of that... NFL size and arm.  It's like JaMarcus Russell, Tom Brady and Joe Montana had a love baby, but only the best parts. So now Indy has one piece. They need to fill the rest of the roster with talent, but it seems like they have a pretty good idea of which direction that they will be heading.  But will it create even similar long-term success?  The jury is still out on that one.

Lastly, the Washington Redskins traded away 3(!) first round picks and a couple of other selections, for the opportunity to draft Robert Griffin III if they so choose.  I know they wouldn't fork all of that over for Justin Blackmon and Matt Kalil, so it's pretty much done.  And I love III.  I think he is the prototypical NFL quarterback in today's NFL.  Get the ball to your receiver.  Watch out for blitzes.  Escape when necessary. But win with your arm.  Meets all those requirements and does it uncannily well.  Unfortunately, they traded away many an asset, and might have problems struggling to fill whatever future holes show up in their team.  They play in what arguably is the best division in the NFL, if not the most consistent.  Outside of the Redskins, these teams rarely lose more than 10 games.  I haven't seen Dallas draft in the top 5 since Troy Aikman, but feel free to correct me if I'm wrong.  Giants after Eli; same.  Philly is the NFC's Indy.  So we will see.  I like all 4, but at the end of the day, I like Tom, Eli, Drew, Aaron and Ben, and their teams just a little bit more.

P.S.  Watch out for Cam and his Panthers, and Andy and his Bengals.

Quarterfinals!

Champions League QF's and predictions

APOEL v Real Madrid:  You have to think that this is a pretty easy decision.  APOEL have played really well, but they got out of what most would consider the easiest first round group, and then squeaked past an indifferent Lyon side.  Real Madrid barnstormed through their group, and followed that up with a domination of play over 2 legs against the Russian side CSKA.  That being said, it might be closer than people think, but Madrid should advance to the semis.  I think they do.  MADRID

Marseille v Bayern:  Could be a great tie.  Marseille already knocked out one of the super powers in Inter Milan, and did come from a relatively difficult group stage.  They could've beaten Inter by more goals in the first leg too.  Bayern has been lukewarm in the Bundesliga, but absolutely fantastic in CL.  When fully fit, they might be the 3rd best side in the world to speak of.  The final is in their stadium, and they will most certainly be up for this.  BAYERN

Benfica v Chelsea.  At this point I think the draw is rigged.  How did every single top side draw the second game at home and all avoid each other in the QF stage?  Amazing!  But let's discuss.  Benfica has been consistent so far, and played both United and Basel really well.  They have a nice attacking side, and some underrated Brazilian defenders as well.  Many of their stars are already linked with bigger sides.  Chelsea being one of those sides, played fantastically to get to this point against Napoli at Stamford Bridge.  Not only did they need goals, but they needed to keep the triumvirate of Cavani-Lavezzi-Hamsik out of the net.  Missing accomplished.  I think they can do it again, but it will be really close.  CHELSEA

Milan v Barcelona.  Probably every one's favorite pairing.  The best team in the world without question against a side that isn't afraid of the best team in the world.  When Milan is on, they can win at any stadium at any time.  Only the same goes for Barcelona who beyond having a few problems with Milan, have played with relative ease throughout this Champions League tournament.  Milan thought they had similar ease, until they played at the Emirates.  I am surprised to see them here.  Maybe its meant to be.  MILAN

Top 4 players to watch (that will make a difference, not in quality)
1st tie: Mesut Ozil  CAM
2nd tie: Franck Ribery LW
3rd tie: John Terry CB
4th tie: Zlatan Ibrahimovic CF

Enjoy the matches!  Bilbao for Europa!  The Draw

Stars Pursue their own Constellations

After Lebron decided to 'Take his talents to South Beach' the trend players essentially constructing their own teams has exploded.  Carmello and Amare essentially met in New York during the course of last season.  'Lob City' was constructed during the off season.  The Dwight Howard Show continues in Orlando. 

Most recently, reports were made that Dwight would be able to control the fate of not only his coach Stan Van Gundy, but the Magic's General Manager Otis Smith.  Since when were athletes able to control the destiny of those in charge of their development? Magic Johnson's demand for a trade in the early 1980's that ended in the termination of Lakers Paul Westhead (enter Pat Riley).  Almost thirty years later, athletes seem to conspire about which team and which players would be ideal to play with in search of a championship. 

"If they want to fire me, if Dwight wants to fire me – fire me, I really don't give a damn about being fired. That doesn't concern me in the least. … If they want to fire me to please somebody -- fire me." - Coach Van Gundy prior to a victory over the Heat last night (3/13).

 The ESPN Mobile application implied that this would be Dwight's last game in Orlando during the middle of the game!  What does somebody know that we do not?  Why are they given the ability to enlighten millions before anything is done?

The NBA store made Dwight New Jersey Nets T-Shirts available for order.  Dwight has not been traded to the Nets.

The New York Knicks have been on a downward spiral since the All Star Weekend.  Carmello is a 'Black Hole' when given the ball and does not provide sufficient scoring opportunities for Jeremy Lin and Amare Stoudamire.  Rumors spread that 'Mellow would be open to leaving New York if the opportunity were to arise. Mike D'Antoni has become the scapegoat, resigning today.  As a big fan of Mike, I know that he is in tune with the media that surrounds him in New York and he made the decision that was in every one's best interest.  Mike will not have any trouble finding work.

Tonight the trade deadline will all be over.  All the focus will shine on the second have of the rare condensed season and 'team building' will have to be put on hold until the off season.  If Dwight ends up staying in Orlando, the Magic should end up with a Home Court advantage in the first round of the playoffs. After defeating the Heat last night, it proves it will not be easy to eliminate the team with savvy veterans and many spot up shooters. 

The Knicks will be busy trying to gel under new expected Interim Coach Mike Woodson, who was criticized for putting too much weight on superstar Joe Johnson during his time in Atlanta.  Could this mean the same fate for Carmello? Or will he develop a potent offense that can include Lin, Anthony, Stoudamire, recently acquired J.R. Smith, and veteran Baron Davis (B-Diddy!). 

League officials and Coaches should call for advice from Doc Rivers.  Doc is able to handle the pressures of intense Boston Media spotlight and four essential 'Super Stars' without missing a beat. 

The League, Front office Team Officials, and Coaches career's should not be held at the mercy of their players.  No I am not implying slavery Adrian Peterson, players are supposed to play.  Let the business people do business and let the coaches coach.  Nobody got to where they are because players such as Dwight and Lebron gave them opportunities.

Wild Times Ahead?

I am Tommy Ranney. I'll be contributing some bits from the hockey world. I've been a hockey fan for as long as I can remember. I grew up with the Golden Gophers being my #1 team and that hasn't changed a bit. I can't wait to watch them in Tampa in a few weeks. I also loathe all things Wisconsin and North Dakota (better dead than red. sue is a girl's nam... err... that's not your name anymore... whioux are you?) I am a suffering Wild fan 2nd and I'm going to take a stab at them right now.

The Minnesota Wild decided what kind of organization they wanted to be the day that we were granted another NHL franchise. Basically, former GM Doug Risebrough and the rest of the front office had a choice to make. Do we want to be competitive right away or do we sacrifice a few years and accumulate young talent? They decided to try and compete as soon as possible. How do you do that when you have very little talent? Hire Jacques Lemaire and play the trap. In year 3, we were treated to a great run all the way to the conference finals where J.S. Giguerre and his mammoth pads kept us out of the Cup finals.

The next few years gave us some playoff appearances and even a division title, but we hadn't been out of the 1st round since 2003. Fans grew tired of the "boring trap hockey" and wanted to see a more up tempo style. Personally, I was enjoying winning, making the playoffs, and watching Bouchard put up 50 assists. But is was evident that at a minimum, we needed a new GM. Risebrough seemed to have absolutely no plan for the future. We had very little draft picks, next to nothing in the prospect pool, and were never making successful trades to improve the team (see Chris Simon trade in 2008). So we brought in Chuck Fletcher to try to fix things up a bit. His first move was hiring Todd Richards as the new coach and gave him a mission that was doomed to fail. In Richards' 2 years as coach, he was told to play a new up-tempo style and score more goals (is that possible with Miettinen on the 1st line?). Fletch did not make many trades that made the team better in the present. He seemed focused on getting more draft picks and prospects, which was desperately needed. But, when Richards inevitably failed, we fired him.

This past off season, it seemed as though Fletcher decided to bring in more NHL level talent to try and assist new coach Mike Yeo. We were treated to a couple huge off season trades when we obtained Devin Setoguchi and Dany Heatley. It was the all-aboard call for the Wild bandwagon. I was sure we were playoff bound, although I was realistic and was not expecting the Cup. Just some quality playoff hockey in April.

Well, it hasn't quite worked out that way. The lack of depth has really shown this season with the number of injuries we have had to deal with. Bouchard, Latendresse, and Koivu have all missed significant time this season. Guys like Warren Peters, Carson MacMillan, and Jed Ortmeyer shouldn't be in the lineup every day. 

So looking ahead... it would appear that our future relies on some of the prospects developing to NHL stars to provide some much needed scoring depth. Oh wait I forgot about ZACH PARISE AND RYAN SUTER (a guy can dream right?). We are missing that dynamic goal scorer (ala Marian Gaborik). Heatley is nice, but he is only as good as those around him. He is lethal on one-timers and quick shots, but is rarely going to create chances for himself. 

So who, if anybody, will become and offensive threat and get this team back to the playoffs? Granlund? Zucker? Bulmer? Quitter Coyle? These next couple of years are going to make or break Chuck Fletcher's run as GM of the Wild. 

Are there more Rumors made in Middle School, or at the NBA Trade Deadline?

If you don't know by now you wouldn't be reading this, but the Minnesota Timberwolves have a fan base in complete and utter disarray after losing their Spanish Sensation Ricky Rubio for the season with a torn ACL.  Already in need of a two guard the Wolves now have to depend on Luke Ridnour to be a leader at the PG position in Rubio's absence.  Ambitious speculation landed Jamal Crawford in Minnesota but seems less likely after Ricky's injury.  If I had a position in the front office I would have sold my soul for Eric Gordon months ago.  That simply has no chance.  

A familiar face in Ramon Sessions may venture back to the Target Center to redeem his dismal previous stint with the Wolves.

It has become clear that Magic superstar Dwight Howard is going to depart from the team.  His preferred destination is any team that is already well off so he can backpack his way to The Finals.  Pretty heavy lifting physically.  Everyone is aware of what Dwight can provide, a monster presence on defense and at worst a decoy on the offensive side.  According to sources the Golden State Warriors offered David Lee and Monte Ellis for Howard.  Unsure if the Warriors offered both players at the same time, or package deals with Lee and Ellis and the main fixtures the Magic wanted no part of it.  Dwight has made it clear he wants to play in the Staples Center, either joining 'Lob City' or teaming up with Kobe for the remainder of the Black Mamba's career.

Dwight Howard is a nuisance and doesn't realize how well off he is in Orlando.  He is surrounded by spot up three point shooters, has a front office willing to pay him anything, and isn't too far removed from a Finals appearance.  Orlando could make a serious run in the East if they were to heat up behind the ark.  The Magic need to act fast if they wish to cash in on their Pre-Madonna.  The Bulls and the Nets are dark horses to land the two time NBA defensive player of the year.

The Warriors have also inquired about Bucks center Andrew Bogut. In the same locker room, Brandon Jennings was scene on not one but two of his cell phones prior to Monday's game.  He is trying to keep up with swirling rumors just like us and figures that maybe he will see his name pop up.  Can't blame the guy for looking out for himself.

Two time MVP Steve Nash has been speculated a 'good fit' for Dallas, Portland, and even the Lakers.  The guy is still ballin', but needs to be made available by the Suns before we can take this seriously.  Nash is raising a family in Phoenix and a move is hard to picture, but his quest for a championship has not been completed.  If Nash retires with no rings on his hand, Tim Duncan and Kobe should take him on a long vacation.

The Hornets, in the middle of rebuilding are shopping former Clippers Chris Kayman and Eric Gordon.  The Pacers have shown pursuit of Gordon, but are more likely to aqquire him after the season.  Gordon will be a Restricted Free Agent and the Hornets may match any offer before departure.  I believe Kayman is underrated and could help a team looking to compete this season, if that team is willing to take on his gross contract.  Golden State could have their hat in this ring as well.

Michael Beasley isn't welcomed by the Wolves coaching staff and front office.  

Josh Smith has made it clear that he wants out of Atlanta.  Atlanta fans aren't aware of this because they haven't found out the season has started.

With three days until the deadline, there won't be any speculation shortage of moves that may take place.  Any trade will have a huge impact for teams involved, especially in this years condensed season.

Plenty more trade talk to come.

The Suns host the Wolves tonight, tip-off is 9pm central time.

 

 

 

On-deck circle

Hi, my name is Chuck, and I'm an alco...

No?

My name is Chuck, I'm 6'3", and like long walks on the beach, piña coladas, and getting caught..

Hm, maybe this one...

Please allow me to introduce myself, I'm a man of wealth and taste.

*ahem*

Ok, try this one.  Hey, my name is Chuck Ruether and I'll be setting up and breaking down baseball on this blog.  I'm 28, born and raised in Minnesota, baseball man through and through.  Weaned on the glory days of Puckett, Gladden, and Viola, my love affair with the sport began thinking that World Championships were only a matter of time.  That expectation was broken quickly by a little glaucoma and a pinch-penny ownership.  That fandom matured with a return to contention by the likes of Mientkiewicz, Koskie, Radke, and the Soul Patrol.  It's only burned stronger since.  Now I'm in my 5th year as a Twins season ticket holder, and loving every game I go to.

That most recent group of Twins brought my attention to the world of prospects and the eternal future that springs anew annually in baseball.  I'll be able to tell you more about why Mike Trout is the key to the Angels' success this year than any more conspicuous free agent signings.  I'll talk about why Jesus Montero will do more for the Mariners this year than Michael Pineda will do for the Yankees.  I'll tell you that the Rangers' acquisition of Joe Nathan will do more for their starting rotation than their bullpen. I'll talk about why the Braves have the best pitching staff in the AL East.  I'll tell you that the White Sox will soon be among the worst teams in the league, and that statement comes from no point of bias.  And I'll say that, while they do so many things right and can't help but win games, the sooner the Yankees and pink-hat-wearing Red Sox run themselves out of the playoff hunt, the happier we'll all be.  Ok, the last one was spite, but I'm not sorry.

Oh, and I hate, hate, HATE, the wave.  Hooray for basic human coordination!  Worst. Fans. Ever.

So step up to the plate.  Summer's coming, and the weather's great.  Is there really any place you'd rather be on a warm evening than the ballpark listening to the crack of the bat as the sun sets?  Not me.

Follow @Section211

Surging at the Right Moment

After such a disastrous beginning to the season, Gunner supporters now find their Red and White’s currently tied with Chelsea FC for the ever so vital 4^th spot of the Premier League Champions League qualifying with 49 points. With the Gunner’s with a game in hand at home set to play today later at 2:55 CDT against Champions League seeking Newcastle (44pts), Arsenal are prime to make a surge for the third spot in the league as both Manchester teams have firmly established themselves atop the table with Tottenham Hotspur (not so hot lately) trailing 13 points behind Manchester City (66 pts.) who were surpassed by the Red Devils (67 pts.) as they coasted to victory over West Bromwich Albion over the weekend as Wayne Rooney netted both goals bringing his season total to 20 goals. 2^nd behind Mr. Captain Fantastic himself Robyn Van Persie who has netted an astonishing 25 goals this season in only 27 premier league games.

Manchester City left three points on the table this past weekend as they suffered an away loss to Swansea City as The Swan’s Luke Moore header in the 83^rd minute found the back of the net giving Swansea the late lead and crucial three points in the table.

Arsenal’s matchup against Newcastle is one that has direct influences on the table standings and Champions League qualifying for next year’s competition as Newcastle linger behind Arsenal and Chelsea with 44 points, but it is the 3^rd place team which concerns me the most as Tottenham Hotspurs have not been playing as they were during the beginning of season in earning the points they should in beating teams they should, but as the season has continued Tottehnam have hiccupped here and there allowing Arsenal and Chelsea hope for 3^rd.

Tottenham’s form in their last 5, W-D-W-L-L-L, has been lackluster considering the squad fielded each time out with names of Modric, Bale, Adebayor, Van Der Vaart, and Lennon in the lineup. A team with these 5 attackers and midfielders ought to be displaying results their names show. Class and experience. Spurs is a team filled with talent and experience. They have the players to remain in Champions League qualifying with a finisher and target man in Adebayor, playmaker in Modric, pace, ball skills, and his ever so dangerous left foot in the box in Bale, playmaker and distant shooter in RVDV, and pace and foot skills in Lennon. Harry Redknapp, manager of Tottenham, needs to align his team and let them know if he is fully invested in Tottenham or the English National team as there have been rumors that he is next in line to fulfill the position vacated by Fabio Capello after he resigned due to English’s governing body handling of John Terry’s racism case with Anton Ferdinand of Queens Park Rangers as Terry was stripped of the captaincy position before all details and verdicts were revealed. The questioning and uncertainty behind Redknapp must have an immense impact on the players and their psyche as their manager may not be full invested in their season and interests.

Zach Bennett - NBA

I love the NBA, the greatest Soap Oprah on television. Here is a quick rundown, I'll be sure to leave something to be desired.  

Personal Info:

• Zachary Bennett - Distel, Age 22, St. Louis Park Minnesnowta
• Raised in both Phoenix and the Twin Cities 
• I'm not a player, I just crush a lot.

 Get to know:

• Loyalties - Phoenix Suns, Minnesota Timberwolves.
• Lebron James - Even the most basic Basketball Mind knows the talent, never in question. Character is Everything. You sure are getting a lot of millage out of that pregame powder toss ritual that Kevin Garnett invented. It would be hard to admire you even if I wanted too
• Somebody owes a certain Sacramento Kings team a shot at The Finals
• Who is Wes Johnson and what does he do?
• Forced 3 pointers are a thing of beauty - J.R. Smith do your thaannngg
• Kevin Johnson past Kenny Smith and over Hakeem 'The Dream' Olajuwon 
• Kobe Bryant - I do not have the energy to root against you anymore, Raja Bell gave you my message a few years back.  Please retire.  Sincerely, The Western Conference
• I hate the Spurs more than anything in sports

Other Favorites:

• Arsenal Gunners
• Diamondbacks
• Twins
• Arizona Wildcats

I am looking forward to the opinions, ideas, facts, and idiocy the site will be able to provide.  All opinions welcome, haters included.

"It is nice to be important but it is more important to be nice"

The world didn't get this old by ignorant opinions and arguments.  Expressing thoughts intelligently is a sign of maturity.

I thank Nate Confer aka Mr. Reflective for his efforts in assembling a group of individuals that all share a strong passion for sports.  Documenting thoughts and opinions for everyone to see takes strong will and effort.  

That being said...

He gave himself a nickname, who does that? 

Good thing he works in a bar, the thought of conversing about how Manchester United is going to sign Robin Van Persie without access to booze is a nightmare.

I'll be sure to document any bandwagon rides taken by all members, especially him.

"The Pac 12, where surfer punks go to die".

At least the surfer punks manage to run dynamic offenses.  The I-Form is dead, B1G 10 farmer boys are going to have to learn something else or go back to wrestling.

 

Big ups to Chris Shannon (Not an official member, yet)

The dude knows his Futball, consider him to be from Across the Pond.

 Conversation of any sort is always welcome

Twitter - @xZaCh

Facebook - Zach Bennett

Zwbd333@gmail.com

 

 

Nate Confer - NFL/European Soccer

Part One:


Yo.  Nate Confer, or a.k.a. on the blogger as Mr.Reflective.  Cause I try to think things through before I share my thoughts with everyone.  So this is our thing, and you'll know that we're coming.  Even though I imagine that we'll be at each other's throats, if anyone from the outside wants to attack, beware of the napalm.  


Right now I have four and potentially five bloggers.  Chuck will be on MLB and everything baseball, Zach has the NBA covered, CC is taking care of the NFL and UFC for us, and Tommy will speak of everything hockey.  Anyone reading our blogs that has a major sports passion; feel free to use this as your platform and join the crew.  Here's a little bit of my story.


I've loved writing ever since I was in the first grade.  One of my short stories made it into the elementary school newsletter that they released every month, and I couldn't believe that my crap made it in there (Chukuma you got me on this).  I think it was about my favorite foods and why I enjoy eating them.  Since that day, I have only blogged sports.  Except for the occasional synopsis blog, which I hope to share with some of the readers down the road.  I have loved sports since before first grade and love them more now.  I am stuck between that rock and hard place; I love players, but I have to love my teams just a little bit more.  A quick summary: United, Green Bay, Penn State, Timberwolves, BVB, and the Minnesota Twins.  In that order.  Those are my teams.  My players extend from Reggie White to Larry Johnson & Wayne Rooney to Zinedine Zidane.  I'm not talking about the 4 point play, Larry Johnson, but the taking over for Priest Holmes, Larry Johnson.  The 99 Knicks, 01 Rams, and 09 Saints (yes, I know) are three of my all time favorite 'teams'.  Just those years did I hop on the bandwagon.  


My main focus for this blog will be to terrorize the other authors for their incompetence and unusual perspectives.  :)  I kid.  I will attempt mainly 3 things.  First, to banter and gain perspective about my favorite competition: the NFL.  I love everything about it, minus the salary cap, and am willing to discuss why at any opportunity.  Second, to share with you all the great sport of 'football' or as we Yanks like to say, soccer.  It truly is amazing, and I would make love to it if I could.  Finally, to bring out the best in my authors.  If we can't support each other, through criticism, feedback, or encouragement, then I believe this will fail.  This is a platform for all of us to share our passions with each other, and with you, the subscriber.  Our blogs will not be wonderful every single time.  Our arguments will be weak and without merit.  Our opinions will change on a minute's whim, and we will probably be contradicting ourselves at every turn.  Yet, it's sports.  And that's the only part that matters.  Peace.




Part two:


So you know me a little better, here are a list of my favorite and least favorite things.  For your enjoyment.  


Favorites:
(MY Big 3)NFL
European Football//Soccer
College Football
Pick 6's
Shotgun formation
And one's
1-0 hockey games
1-0 soccer games
1-0 baseball games
Seeing my backup QB in the 4th quarter
behind the back flips for DP's
Florida/Miami/Florida St. matchups
Hakim/Holt/Bruce/Faulk
300 games
Volleys off of Corner kicks (see: Robben v United '10)
jerseys
Full effort


Least favorites:
People leaving early
Pac-12
Kobe's snarl
retirement
Justin Harrell
2 points for a win in hockey (3???)
west coast trips
pitchers hitting
lazy all-star games
LeBron haters
Wolverines and Buckeyes
trading up
salary Caps
attacking sides getting relegated
5 man rotations w 7 man bullpens (Tell 'em Nolan)


Cool.  Feedback bitches!