The Reds won today 7 to 6 against the Cleveland Indians in Goodyear, Arizona. Matt Maloney started the game for the Reds and went two innings without allowing a hit while wiffing two Indians. Josh Tomlin started for the Indians going two innings of no run ball. Dave Sappelt and Chris Valaika hit home runs for the Reds while Ezequiel Carrera went deep for the Indians.
Dusty Baker said after the game that he was really impressed with Matt Maloney and said he was very sharp pitching today making a case for his bid at a bullpen spot. He also made the comment that Jose Arredondo threw the ball very well after being out all of last season with Tommy John surgery.
The Reds got on the board in the 5th inning when Jay Bruce reached on a Travis Buck error that put him on second base, then Jay stole 3rd on the next pitch. Jonny Gomes drove him in with a ground ball to third base allowing Bruce to go home. In the 8th inning the Reds plated four runs and then put two more up in the 9th.
Sam LeCure pitched the two innings after Malone striking out four and allowing two hits. Carlos Fisher allowed one run in the 6th inning and then Donnie Joseph allowed 5 only getting one out in the 7th. Daryl Thompson came in and finished that inning and the next without allowing any runs.
The Reds go up against Cleveland again tomorrow, lets hope for the same outcome!
Monday, February 28, 2011
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Reds Chances After Wainwright Injury
After hearing the outlook on Cardinals ace Adam Wainwright turned south, I immediately saw the Cards stock for the season hit the deck. Of coarse anytime Albert Pujols is in your lineup your going to have a chance. But, losing a Cy Young candidate two years running is never good. The Cards rotation is a big question mark if you ask me now.
Who replaces Wainwright in St Louis? I can see the Cards going after Kevin Millwood. They have a lot of options to try and replace him, but in all reality, nobody they pick up is going to put up the same numbers he would. Their rotation could be a serious problem down the stretch this year. Will Garcia have a year like last year? I'm not putting my money on it, not trying to knock what he did last year though. Chris Carpenter is always a health risk it seems. But, when he's on, he's a huge threat. Jake Westbrook is nothing more than a mid-rotation guy and won't post anything close to what Adam would've.
So how does this change the NL Central for the season? You have to think the Cards are no more than a slightly above .500 team without around 20 wins from Wainwright. Every other team just gained a couple wins from this if you ask me. My favorite to win the Central is still the Reds, while I think the Brewers might be slightly better than the Cards now. This is still going to be a great race all year though! I'm excited for baseball to be starting back up and starting to get anxious for Opening Day.
Who replaces Wainwright in St Louis? I can see the Cards going after Kevin Millwood. They have a lot of options to try and replace him, but in all reality, nobody they pick up is going to put up the same numbers he would. Their rotation could be a serious problem down the stretch this year. Will Garcia have a year like last year? I'm not putting my money on it, not trying to knock what he did last year though. Chris Carpenter is always a health risk it seems. But, when he's on, he's a huge threat. Jake Westbrook is nothing more than a mid-rotation guy and won't post anything close to what Adam would've.
So how does this change the NL Central for the season? You have to think the Cards are no more than a slightly above .500 team without around 20 wins from Wainwright. Every other team just gained a couple wins from this if you ask me. My favorite to win the Central is still the Reds, while I think the Brewers might be slightly better than the Cards now. This is still going to be a great race all year though! I'm excited for baseball to be starting back up and starting to get anxious for Opening Day.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Thoughts on Melo to the Knicks
It's official, Carmelo is heading to the Knicks along with Chauncey Billups, Anthony Carter, Shelden Williams, and Renaldo Balkman for Raymond Felton, Danilo Gallinari, Timofey Mozgov and Wilson Chandler. The T'Wolves also got Eddy Curry and Anthony Randolph while sending Corey Brewer to the Knicks.
It's hard to say who is getting the best out of this deal. The Knicks definitely better with the addition of Melo and Billups to team with Amar'e. But down the road, the Nuggets are getting some talent that has potential. Of coarse right now it's all potential and none of these guys are likely to amount to what Anthony has become. I believe the Knicks become the fourth best team in the East even though their record isn't going to show it. Atlanta and Orlando go down behind them now that New York has two superstars.
That leads me on to the next question in the subject.Will Melo and Amar'e play well together? It's a very good question and we won't really know until they get some time and rhythm with the new pieces of the puzzle. I think with Chauncey Billups and Carmelo's previous time together they're going to keep clicking. If you ask me, Amar'e just makes Billups even better with another weapon to dish the ball to. I don't know that trading three of your five starters is a very smart idea. But, they did bring in two all stars.
My next question is, "How far do the Knicks go this year after the trade?". I think if all these players get some quick chemistry and play well together, they sky is the limit. Do they have the talent the Heat or Celtics have? Probably not. But, the best team isn't always the one that wins it all. That goes for any sport. How about Trevor Bayne? I know he's not the best in Nascar.
So what's everyone's take? Who got the better end of the deal here?
It's hard to say who is getting the best out of this deal. The Knicks definitely better with the addition of Melo and Billups to team with Amar'e. But down the road, the Nuggets are getting some talent that has potential. Of coarse right now it's all potential and none of these guys are likely to amount to what Anthony has become. I believe the Knicks become the fourth best team in the East even though their record isn't going to show it. Atlanta and Orlando go down behind them now that New York has two superstars.
That leads me on to the next question in the subject.Will Melo and Amar'e play well together? It's a very good question and we won't really know until they get some time and rhythm with the new pieces of the puzzle. I think with Chauncey Billups and Carmelo's previous time together they're going to keep clicking. If you ask me, Amar'e just makes Billups even better with another weapon to dish the ball to. I don't know that trading three of your five starters is a very smart idea. But, they did bring in two all stars.
My next question is, "How far do the Knicks go this year after the trade?". I think if all these players get some quick chemistry and play well together, they sky is the limit. Do they have the talent the Heat or Celtics have? Probably not. But, the best team isn't always the one that wins it all. That goes for any sport. How about Trevor Bayne? I know he's not the best in Nascar.
So what's everyone's take? Who got the better end of the deal here?
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Who's the best NCAA Mens Team?
This last few days has been interesting in college hoops. Ohio State lost in Wisconsin Saturday night and dropped to third in the ESPN rankings. Kansas took over as number one in the nation, but that didn't last long as they lost to Kansas State tonight. So that leaves us to ponder the question, who really is the best team in the nation.
Duke started the year at number one and has fallen a couple times this year to teams they should have beat. But, they are also without star freshman Kyrie Irving due to injury. Nolan Smith has played very well taking over the point for Duke and is leading the ACC in scoring and assists. I can strongly see them winning the NCAA Tournament in March.
Ohio State won their first 24 games of the year only to lose to Wisconsin in a great game. They have Sullinger who is on his way to winning the national player of the year award if he keeps up his play, but he has competition. If Ohio State can bounce back and beat Michigan State, a team who is desperate for a big win to keep their tournament hopes alive, I see them being right there as top team in the country.
The Texas Longhorns are a very strong team and two of their three losses have come against top ten teams. Pitt was ranked 4th at the time and UConn was 9th. Losing to Pitt by two and UConn my one in overtime. The loss to USC was a shock and the fact that they lost by 17 doesn't help them. Obviously this game was a fluke night for them. Jordan Hamilton is leading them the way and putting them in position to win the Big 12.
I could go on and on and make an argument for any team, the others who you make a case for would possibly be; of coarse Kansas even though they just lost to Kansas State, Pitt at number 4, Jimmer Fredette and BYU, Notre Dame, San Diego State, Georgetown, and the list goes on and on. What's your take?
Duke started the year at number one and has fallen a couple times this year to teams they should have beat. But, they are also without star freshman Kyrie Irving due to injury. Nolan Smith has played very well taking over the point for Duke and is leading the ACC in scoring and assists. I can strongly see them winning the NCAA Tournament in March.
Ohio State won their first 24 games of the year only to lose to Wisconsin in a great game. They have Sullinger who is on his way to winning the national player of the year award if he keeps up his play, but he has competition. If Ohio State can bounce back and beat Michigan State, a team who is desperate for a big win to keep their tournament hopes alive, I see them being right there as top team in the country.
The Texas Longhorns are a very strong team and two of their three losses have come against top ten teams. Pitt was ranked 4th at the time and UConn was 9th. Losing to Pitt by two and UConn my one in overtime. The loss to USC was a shock and the fact that they lost by 17 doesn't help them. Obviously this game was a fluke night for them. Jordan Hamilton is leading them the way and putting them in position to win the Big 12.
I could go on and on and make an argument for any team, the others who you make a case for would possibly be; of coarse Kansas even though they just lost to Kansas State, Pitt at number 4, Jimmer Fredette and BYU, Notre Dame, San Diego State, Georgetown, and the list goes on and on. What's your take?
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Former Red gets 2 year/$24 Million Deal
Josh Hamilton was at the lowest of lows for a player who was expected to be a great. He was addicted to all kinds of drugs and had become an alcoholic. He got all the money for being a first overall pick in 1999 by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, and he lost control. When you look at Josh, he looks to be a happy guy now. But, when you observe all the tattoos on his body you start to realize all the trouble he has been through to get where he is today.
If you ask me, the Rangers are getting a bargain for the numbers Hamilton has put up over the last couple years. Let's not forget this guy hit 32 bombs in the home run derby in one round. He has the talent to be better than any other player in the league. He just won AL MVP after missing almost 30 games. When he's on the field, he's always a threat. Whether it's going deep in the batter's box, or throwing someone out from the outfield.
At 29 years old, and the fact that drug abuse can take a toll on the body, I think this is a good deal for both sides. Hamilton could command a good $20 million on the open market were he to hit free agency. But the injury concerns and his history, both sides are getting even ends of the stick. The Rangers are getting one of the best players out there while Hamilton is getting the financial security for two years although I'm sure he would have liked a longer deal.
The deal will cover his final two years of arbitration, but won't buy out any of his free agency years. This is the same route the Reds took with signing Joey Votto to his three year deal. I would hate to see either of these guys leave these teams because they're part of their strong core of guys. Any departures would probably be devastating to their teams. Of coarse they would end up in one of these huge market teams that banks on free agency to make their team stronger instead of developing them like the Reds and Rangers have done.
If you ask me, the Rangers are getting a bargain for the numbers Hamilton has put up over the last couple years. Let's not forget this guy hit 32 bombs in the home run derby in one round. He has the talent to be better than any other player in the league. He just won AL MVP after missing almost 30 games. When he's on the field, he's always a threat. Whether it's going deep in the batter's box, or throwing someone out from the outfield.
At 29 years old, and the fact that drug abuse can take a toll on the body, I think this is a good deal for both sides. Hamilton could command a good $20 million on the open market were he to hit free agency. But the injury concerns and his history, both sides are getting even ends of the stick. The Rangers are getting one of the best players out there while Hamilton is getting the financial security for two years although I'm sure he would have liked a longer deal.
The deal will cover his final two years of arbitration, but won't buy out any of his free agency years. This is the same route the Reds took with signing Joey Votto to his three year deal. I would hate to see either of these guys leave these teams because they're part of their strong core of guys. Any departures would probably be devastating to their teams. Of coarse they would end up in one of these huge market teams that banks on free agency to make their team stronger instead of developing them like the Reds and Rangers have done.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Countdown to Spring Training!
There are five days untill pitchers and catchers report to Goodyear, Arizona for Spring Training. Seems like a pretty long time until Opening Day March 31st. But, it's right around the corner. Like most Reds fans, I'm getting pretty excited. To top it all off, yesterday on Baseball Tonight, they were discussing the NL Central and who has the best chance to win. Both of the guys said they had to pick the Reds with a young core of guys who are only going to get better.
Today I read on http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/ that Edinson Volquez rejected a four year offer from the Reds, no dollar amount was listed but it was expected around the amount Jonny Cueto received. In one sense, I don't understand why he wouldn't take the financial security of the deal coming off a major surgery. But, on the flip side, I can understand why he would take the one year deal and pitch his tail off to earn the four years with more money. It's a huge risk Edinson is taking, but the reward could be huge.
Anyone have expectations for the Reds this season? I'm expecting a playoff spot, and we WILL NOT get a no hitter thrown against us this year. I expect us to atleast get to the ALCS this season, I know this is a bold prediction, but I see it as a reachable goal for the Reds. Of coarse every year, every team expects to win the World Series. If they aren't playing for a ring they should just pack up and go home.
Thanks for reading, please comment and follow my blog.
Today I read on http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/ that Edinson Volquez rejected a four year offer from the Reds, no dollar amount was listed but it was expected around the amount Jonny Cueto received. In one sense, I don't understand why he wouldn't take the financial security of the deal coming off a major surgery. But, on the flip side, I can understand why he would take the one year deal and pitch his tail off to earn the four years with more money. It's a huge risk Edinson is taking, but the reward could be huge.
Anyone have expectations for the Reds this season? I'm expecting a playoff spot, and we WILL NOT get a no hitter thrown against us this year. I expect us to atleast get to the ALCS this season, I know this is a bold prediction, but I see it as a reachable goal for the Reds. Of coarse every year, every team expects to win the World Series. If they aren't playing for a ring they should just pack up and go home.
Thanks for reading, please comment and follow my blog.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
The Looming Albert Pujols Problem
Anyone who has been following the MLB offseason knows, this could be Albert Pujols last season with the Cardinals. One must ask, how in the world can the Cards let this guy slip away from them. This guy could very possibly go down as the best player ever. I was hearing the guys on ESPN say he has a chance to be better than Lou Gehrig was. He produces monster numbers year in and year out. He hasn't had any major injuries than have hampered him or are going to shorten his career. He's the perfect ball player.
As far as the contract goes, Albert is looking for a 10 year, 300 million dollar deal. That would trump A-Rod's last deal by 25 million total. For right now, paying 30 million to the top player in the game I don't see as a problem. The Cards got the money, but 10 years from now? Albert would be 41 years old, making 30 million dollars. Just doesn't seem logical to me.
I'm going to agree with the guys from ESPN here, five years at that 30 million a year seems like a great deal. Throw in a couple options to make the deal longer if desired. You have to expect Pujols numbers to be consistant for atleast another four or five years. He's going to be an MVP candidate for years to come. This seems to be the safest option for St. Louis, but I'm not sure Albert is going to settle for 5 years.
So is there really a chance this guy is going to be wearing a new uniform in 2012? What would it be like seeing him in a Cubs jersey? I don't see many clubs besides Chicago Cubs having the money to land him. Or how about the Nationals following up their shocking signing of Jayson Werth with a Pujols landing? It seems they might be willing to open their pockets for superstars. They have been in the running for them the last few years but nobody wants to play for that losing team. You know teams with first basemen locked up aren't going to persue him (Yankee's and Red Sox if they can lock Gonzalez up, are my two examples).
Pujols has set March 16th as the deadline to get a deal done, after than he will not negotiate with the team about a contract. Then you have to know he is going to rake this year proving he's worth 30 million to any club who wants him. Does a deal get done in the next week? Reports are they aren't close to a deal. What do you guys think?
As far as the contract goes, Albert is looking for a 10 year, 300 million dollar deal. That would trump A-Rod's last deal by 25 million total. For right now, paying 30 million to the top player in the game I don't see as a problem. The Cards got the money, but 10 years from now? Albert would be 41 years old, making 30 million dollars. Just doesn't seem logical to me.
I'm going to agree with the guys from ESPN here, five years at that 30 million a year seems like a great deal. Throw in a couple options to make the deal longer if desired. You have to expect Pujols numbers to be consistant for atleast another four or five years. He's going to be an MVP candidate for years to come. This seems to be the safest option for St. Louis, but I'm not sure Albert is going to settle for 5 years.
So is there really a chance this guy is going to be wearing a new uniform in 2012? What would it be like seeing him in a Cubs jersey? I don't see many clubs besides Chicago Cubs having the money to land him. Or how about the Nationals following up their shocking signing of Jayson Werth with a Pujols landing? It seems they might be willing to open their pockets for superstars. They have been in the running for them the last few years but nobody wants to play for that losing team. You know teams with first basemen locked up aren't going to persue him (Yankee's and Red Sox if they can lock Gonzalez up, are my two examples).
Pujols has set March 16th as the deadline to get a deal done, after than he will not negotiate with the team about a contract. Then you have to know he is going to rake this year proving he's worth 30 million to any club who wants him. Does a deal get done in the next week? Reports are they aren't close to a deal. What do you guys think?
A-Rod's Super Bowl Video
Reports are Alex went "ballistic" after being on national television while his girlfriend Cameron Diaz was feeding him popcorn like two little love birds. I'm trying to figure out why he would get so angry. If Cameron Diaz was feeding me popcorn, somebody better be catching this on camera because she's not only gorgeous, but filthy rich and famous.
This only raises another concern of mine about A-Rod. When someone says "ballistic" to me, that sounds like being more than angry. It sounds like a case of roid rage to me. I say this guys the first one to be tested for steroids this year. What do you guys think?
To keep this post short I'm not going to go on and on about A-Rod, I personally don't like him anyway. But, how can he not expect to be on video at some point throughout the game? I mean really, he's going to go down as one of the best baseball players of all time and is going to beat out Barry Bonds home run record barring any major injury. Every year they're showing off all the celebrities at each sports championship games.
Going off topic here, I would ask anyone reading this, please follow my blog and let your friends who are into sports know about it. Thanks!
This only raises another concern of mine about A-Rod. When someone says "ballistic" to me, that sounds like being more than angry. It sounds like a case of roid rage to me. I say this guys the first one to be tested for steroids this year. What do you guys think?
To keep this post short I'm not going to go on and on about A-Rod, I personally don't like him anyway. But, how can he not expect to be on video at some point throughout the game? I mean really, he's going to go down as one of the best baseball players of all time and is going to beat out Barry Bonds home run record barring any major injury. Every year they're showing off all the celebrities at each sports championship games.
Going off topic here, I would ask anyone reading this, please follow my blog and let your friends who are into sports know about it. Thanks!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
The Future of Brandon Phillips
Brandon Phillips has arguably been the best player on the Reds since he came aboard in 2006. Over those five seasons, he has seen one winning season while the Reds stockpiled their farm system and watched a lot of guys develope in to stars. He became the first Red to reach the 30-30 mark for 30 home runs and 30 stolen bases in a season, the last to reach that was Barry Larkin.
Phillips has seen his stats start to drop the last few seasons since he reached that plateau and it's starting to look as if the farm system is catching up to him. A lot of people see prospect Billy Hamilton being Phillips replacement if and when Phillips is to leave for any reason.
Brandon has been the heart and soul of this team for years and I would hate to see him go. He has a great personality and is always out there making spectacular plays on defense. He is a fan favorite on the team and a huge part of our future if you ask me.
I do think the Reds are going to keep him around even if they have to overpay him a little. It's going to be hard to trade Phillips without sending a ton of money with him because nobody is going to want an aging guy who is making 11 or 12 million a year. In one sense it would be smart to unload Phillips contract since the contracts of Bruce, Votto, Cueto, and Arroyo are going to keep rising as the years go by. The Reds aren't going to be able to pay market value for all these guys while consistantly never selling out crowds or finding ways to make money.
Jocketty is banking on raises in attendence to help increase the budget for years to come. I hope he's right because last year was very exciting following the Reds and I would hate to go back to losing seasons.
Phillips has seen his stats start to drop the last few seasons since he reached that plateau and it's starting to look as if the farm system is catching up to him. A lot of people see prospect Billy Hamilton being Phillips replacement if and when Phillips is to leave for any reason.
Brandon has been the heart and soul of this team for years and I would hate to see him go. He has a great personality and is always out there making spectacular plays on defense. He is a fan favorite on the team and a huge part of our future if you ask me.
I do think the Reds are going to keep him around even if they have to overpay him a little. It's going to be hard to trade Phillips without sending a ton of money with him because nobody is going to want an aging guy who is making 11 or 12 million a year. In one sense it would be smart to unload Phillips contract since the contracts of Bruce, Votto, Cueto, and Arroyo are going to keep rising as the years go by. The Reds aren't going to be able to pay market value for all these guys while consistantly never selling out crowds or finding ways to make money.
Jocketty is banking on raises in attendence to help increase the budget for years to come. I hope he's right because last year was very exciting following the Reds and I would hate to go back to losing seasons.
Who makes the Reds Bullpen?
There happens to be a lot of candidates for the bullpen this year. Even with the loss of Arthur Rhodes, there are a lot of options for the Reds. There are three locks in my mind that have no chance of not making it. You got to know with the money in Cordero, he's going to be the closer. Chapman is going to be there with the way he performed last year. Nick Masset seems to be the next guy in line. Nobody sticks out to me as being better than him.
Jose Arrendondo would be the first to make it after the big three, if he can return to his form of a few seasons ago. Although I could see him starting in Louisville just to get back into the swing of things. If he's pitching strong in Spring Training though, he's going to make the team out of camp.
Bill Bray appears to be an option as a lefty specialist, and they gave him a contract, avoiding arbitration. The south paw was great at getting left handed hitters out down the stretch for the Reds while Arthur Rhodes was dealing with a heel injury even though he never landed on the DL.
Logan Ondrusek had a very up and down season. Even getting sent down the first month of the year. It was a shock he made the squad in the first place. He pitched his way onto the team though. I see him having a great chance to make the team on Opening Day.
Dontrelle Willis was brought in almost as an experiment, although him and Bryan Price both reside in Scottsdale, Arizona and reports are the D Train is looking really good. Now he's not going to be in the running for a rotation spot, but he is working his way in as a reliever. I could see him being a nice long reliever for the Reds this year.
There are also guys like Jared Burton (who recently avoided arbitration with the Reds), Carlos Fisher, Danny Ray Herrera, Sam LeCure, and Jordan Smith. Any of these guys have a chance of snagging a spot on the team out of camp. I believe they will all be on the team at some point in the year though due to guys not performing or injuries.
Who do you guys think are going to make the bullpen to start?
Jose Arrendondo would be the first to make it after the big three, if he can return to his form of a few seasons ago. Although I could see him starting in Louisville just to get back into the swing of things. If he's pitching strong in Spring Training though, he's going to make the team out of camp.
Bill Bray appears to be an option as a lefty specialist, and they gave him a contract, avoiding arbitration. The south paw was great at getting left handed hitters out down the stretch for the Reds while Arthur Rhodes was dealing with a heel injury even though he never landed on the DL.
Logan Ondrusek had a very up and down season. Even getting sent down the first month of the year. It was a shock he made the squad in the first place. He pitched his way onto the team though. I see him having a great chance to make the team on Opening Day.
Dontrelle Willis was brought in almost as an experiment, although him and Bryan Price both reside in Scottsdale, Arizona and reports are the D Train is looking really good. Now he's not going to be in the running for a rotation spot, but he is working his way in as a reliever. I could see him being a nice long reliever for the Reds this year.
There are also guys like Jared Burton (who recently avoided arbitration with the Reds), Carlos Fisher, Danny Ray Herrera, Sam LeCure, and Jordan Smith. Any of these guys have a chance of snagging a spot on the team out of camp. I believe they will all be on the team at some point in the year though due to guys not performing or injuries.
Who do you guys think are going to make the bullpen to start?
Monday, February 7, 2011
Super Bowl Recap
Was that a good game or what? How about Christina Aguilera missing some words in the Anthem? I actually missed it but I did some research, turns out this isn't the first time. She missed the same parts at the NBA Finals last year or atleast while it was Lakers and Celtics. How about Fergie killing "Sweet Child O' Mine"? I mean really I could've sounded better with Slash by my side.
Getting to the game, I was stunned Pittsburgh couldn't get more offense going against Green Bay. But, the Packers D came to play scoring twice off turnovers. Not going to lie here, I thought once Charles Woodson went down with the collarbone injury Green Bay's defense would shut down and fall over. He's the focal point of their secondary and without him I lost a lot of confidence in them. Somehow they held on though and showed a lot of courage with arguably their best player. The only arguement would be Clay Matthews.
I thought Big Ben played terrible in this game. Seemed like he faked being hurt at one point with a knee injury and then ran off an 18 yard run. Myself having gone through many knee injuries in my days, I don't see how he just sprinted that far like nothing was wrong right after "hurting" his knee. The first interception he threw, he had a valid point in his shoulder getting hit and losing a lot of power on the throw. The play resulted in 7 points for the green and yellow.
Finally, I am most happy to see first, the Steelers getting a loss in the Super Bowl, and Hines Ward probably wasn't wearing his trademark smile. Now that football season is over, who's ready for some baseball!?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA4DvT3Ox7k&feature=related this is a video from the NBA Finals
Getting to the game, I was stunned Pittsburgh couldn't get more offense going against Green Bay. But, the Packers D came to play scoring twice off turnovers. Not going to lie here, I thought once Charles Woodson went down with the collarbone injury Green Bay's defense would shut down and fall over. He's the focal point of their secondary and without him I lost a lot of confidence in them. Somehow they held on though and showed a lot of courage with arguably their best player. The only arguement would be Clay Matthews.
I thought Big Ben played terrible in this game. Seemed like he faked being hurt at one point with a knee injury and then ran off an 18 yard run. Myself having gone through many knee injuries in my days, I don't see how he just sprinted that far like nothing was wrong right after "hurting" his knee. The first interception he threw, he had a valid point in his shoulder getting hit and losing a lot of power on the throw. The play resulted in 7 points for the green and yellow.
Finally, I am most happy to see first, the Steelers getting a loss in the Super Bowl, and Hines Ward probably wasn't wearing his trademark smile. Now that football season is over, who's ready for some baseball!?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA4DvT3Ox7k&feature=related this is a video from the NBA Finals
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Super Bowl? No. The Reds
As you all know, the Reds pitchers and catchers are going to report to Spring Training in 10 days. Then it's here. Baseball will be back and I'm excited as the next person I'm sure. The Reds have made quite a few moves this offseason. The addition of Edgar Renteria, Fred Lewis, Jeremy Hermida, along with the loss of Arthur Rhodes who went to the AL Champion Rangers. There are a lot of questions on the team, even though they don't seem like bad situations to have.
The biggest question mark is going to be the starting rotation. There are 3 guys vying for the last 2 spots. Homer Bailey, Travis Wood, Mike Leake, and you can throw in Sam LeCure and Matt Maloney as long shots. I think Homer Bailey is going to be the fourth starter, with a nice battle going between Wood and Leake for the fifth spot. In the end, I see Leake winning the spot. But, who knows we haven't even started spring training and both of these guys had good years last year.
The left field situation is touchy, Jonny Gomes was the primary guy last year. He had an outstanding first few months but as the season went on, he slowed down. Fred Lewis and Jeremy Hermida are both options in left. Lewis seems like a decent option to be the lead off man we have lacked. Hermida is almost an experiment in my eyes, we already have a lot of outfield depth with Heisey and Lewis. I see a platoon happening with Gomes and Lewis in left and if one guy is out playing the other, they will become the primary guy.
Shortstop doesn't seem very settled to me, the Reds claim Janish is going to the the starting guy. But, I see Renteria getting more playing time if he brings his bat to the yard. Janish has always had an outstanding glove, but lacks any pop in his bad. Renteria is going to be a leader on this team replacing Orlando Cabrera from last year. In the end, these guys are going to split time and Renteria may play second every now and then to give Phillips a break.
A realistic expectation for me out of the Reds, I expect them to win the division again. The Cards haven't made any huge moves, Berkman's best days are past him without a doubt. Greinke in Milwaukee was a bad trade for the Brew Crew in my mind. This guy had one great season and couldn't follow it up. I know KC gave him no help but did they get worse from two years ago to last year? The Cubs are banking on their older, high priced vets to play up to their contracts. The addition of Carlos Pena doesn't seem to be a huge gain for them. I like our chances of a repeat division title.
I'm also taking Green Bay in the big game tonight! Who ya'll got?
The biggest question mark is going to be the starting rotation. There are 3 guys vying for the last 2 spots. Homer Bailey, Travis Wood, Mike Leake, and you can throw in Sam LeCure and Matt Maloney as long shots. I think Homer Bailey is going to be the fourth starter, with a nice battle going between Wood and Leake for the fifth spot. In the end, I see Leake winning the spot. But, who knows we haven't even started spring training and both of these guys had good years last year.
The left field situation is touchy, Jonny Gomes was the primary guy last year. He had an outstanding first few months but as the season went on, he slowed down. Fred Lewis and Jeremy Hermida are both options in left. Lewis seems like a decent option to be the lead off man we have lacked. Hermida is almost an experiment in my eyes, we already have a lot of outfield depth with Heisey and Lewis. I see a platoon happening with Gomes and Lewis in left and if one guy is out playing the other, they will become the primary guy.
Shortstop doesn't seem very settled to me, the Reds claim Janish is going to the the starting guy. But, I see Renteria getting more playing time if he brings his bat to the yard. Janish has always had an outstanding glove, but lacks any pop in his bad. Renteria is going to be a leader on this team replacing Orlando Cabrera from last year. In the end, these guys are going to split time and Renteria may play second every now and then to give Phillips a break.
A realistic expectation for me out of the Reds, I expect them to win the division again. The Cards haven't made any huge moves, Berkman's best days are past him without a doubt. Greinke in Milwaukee was a bad trade for the Brew Crew in my mind. This guy had one great season and couldn't follow it up. I know KC gave him no help but did they get worse from two years ago to last year? The Cubs are banking on their older, high priced vets to play up to their contracts. The addition of Carlos Pena doesn't seem to be a huge gain for them. I like our chances of a repeat division title.
I'm also taking Green Bay in the big game tonight! Who ya'll got?
Michael Vick is Comeback Player of the Year
Vick was announced Comeback Player of the Year today. I think he's the best story in the NFL this year by far. Mike has turned his life around for the better unlike some of these guys. (Ben Roethlisberger is my number one example) This guy was totally in the gutter as far as his life was concerned. He had it all, one of the biggest superstars in the league. Then he ended up in a federal prison. Now he's again one of the superstars of the league and if you ask me, he's better than he ever was. Although a storybook ending to this season would have been Vick playing in the Super Bowl, this award will do.
I have a lot of respect for Vick for turning around his life and salvaging his career. As much as everyone deserves a second chance, Roger Goodell didn't have to allow Vick back. He's took this opportunity and made the most of it. I hope he stays on track and sets a good example for kids out there going down the wrong track in their lives.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Carson Palmer and Chad Ochocinco...
Today I'm writing about the ongoing disputes with Carson Palmer and Chad "Whatever his last name is now".... Neither one of these guys really want to be in Cincinnati anymore. Chad wants to go to New England apparently and Carson just wants out in general I take.
As far as Carson goes, Mike Brown has been his stubborn self and rejected his request to be traded. I'm trying to figure out why Mike Brown is so determined to keep Palmer, I understand he's your center of plans. But, he's not happy, the fans are frustrated, and he's steadily getting worse statistically. If he wants out that bad, there are plenty of QB's on the draft board to build a franchise around. I'm wondering if the firing of Bob Bratkowski and the hiring of Jon Gruden's brother Jay has had any affect on Carson Palmer's wish to be traded. The Bengals are obviously making changes to try and improve the team. Although I think bringing Lewis back was the first mistake of the offseason. Do I see Carson following through with this "I'll retire if I'm not traded" BS? Nobody walks away from 50 million dollars. I don't care how much money he has in the bank.
With Chad, the Bengals need to get this guy out of here. Don't get me wrong, I like the "person" Chad is. I think he's hilarious and can still be a very productive guy. But he is causing too much controversy in Cincinnati. Carson had his best games of the year when Ocho and TO weren't playing. As far as Mike Brown goes in this situation, "Kiss Da Baby" and trade Chad. As much as I hate to say it, I believe it's best for both sides to part ways.
Drafting a Blaine Gabbert or a Ryan Mallet and building the franchise seems like a decent option if Palmer is traded. Do I see Palmer getting traded? Probably not but you never know when a team is going to offer a package that they couldn't pass up. Hopefully the Bengals moves can help turn this franchise around, again.
As far as Carson goes, Mike Brown has been his stubborn self and rejected his request to be traded. I'm trying to figure out why Mike Brown is so determined to keep Palmer, I understand he's your center of plans. But, he's not happy, the fans are frustrated, and he's steadily getting worse statistically. If he wants out that bad, there are plenty of QB's on the draft board to build a franchise around. I'm wondering if the firing of Bob Bratkowski and the hiring of Jon Gruden's brother Jay has had any affect on Carson Palmer's wish to be traded. The Bengals are obviously making changes to try and improve the team. Although I think bringing Lewis back was the first mistake of the offseason. Do I see Carson following through with this "I'll retire if I'm not traded" BS? Nobody walks away from 50 million dollars. I don't care how much money he has in the bank.
With Chad, the Bengals need to get this guy out of here. Don't get me wrong, I like the "person" Chad is. I think he's hilarious and can still be a very productive guy. But he is causing too much controversy in Cincinnati. Carson had his best games of the year when Ocho and TO weren't playing. As far as Mike Brown goes in this situation, "Kiss Da Baby" and trade Chad. As much as I hate to say it, I believe it's best for both sides to part ways.
Drafting a Blaine Gabbert or a Ryan Mallet and building the franchise seems like a decent option if Palmer is traded. Do I see Palmer getting traded? Probably not but you never know when a team is going to offer a package that they couldn't pass up. Hopefully the Bengals moves can help turn this franchise around, again.
My First Post, Super Bowl
So as you all know, the Super Bowl is this coming Sunday. Is Big Ben going to be able to wake up Sunday after long nights of partying? Is Aaron Rodgers going prove he is legit and better than Favre? Is it even going to be a game?
Living in Cincinnati, I have to root against the Steelers. I don't like them, but you have to respect their defense. They have the defensive player of the year in Troy Polamalu and all that hair. As far as their offense goes, they can run run run... And with that, comes to play action and their passing game. I think it's going to be a tough game for the Packers on both sides of the ball.
As far as the Packers go, their passing game is potent when they're clicking on all cylinders like they have been in the playoffs. If they can somehow establish a running game against the stingy defense, they're going to be good. Their passing game has yet to disappoint me, they've beat good defenses so far with it. Their defense is going to have to stop the run and get Ben on the ground. If they can beat him up and force him to make mistakes, theire going to have a good chance to win this game.
As far as my prediction goes, I'm pulling for Green Bay. I think it's going to be a very good game though. Both teams have a good shot to win this game. But I think the Steelers have the upper hand on the Packers. Thank you for reading and visiting my blog and hope you return for future posts.
Living in Cincinnati, I have to root against the Steelers. I don't like them, but you have to respect their defense. They have the defensive player of the year in Troy Polamalu and all that hair. As far as their offense goes, they can run run run... And with that, comes to play action and their passing game. I think it's going to be a tough game for the Packers on both sides of the ball.
As far as the Packers go, their passing game is potent when they're clicking on all cylinders like they have been in the playoffs. If they can somehow establish a running game against the stingy defense, they're going to be good. Their passing game has yet to disappoint me, they've beat good defenses so far with it. Their defense is going to have to stop the run and get Ben on the ground. If they can beat him up and force him to make mistakes, theire going to have a good chance to win this game.
As far as my prediction goes, I'm pulling for Green Bay. I think it's going to be a very good game though. Both teams have a good shot to win this game. But I think the Steelers have the upper hand on the Packers. Thank you for reading and visiting my blog and hope you return for future posts.
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