The initial reaction was speechless. Then the reality hit, and my thoughts and emotions went into overdrive. I am not in denial, I knew the moment would eventually arrive when the best closer of all time would take his last step off the mound at Yankee Stadium. Time would catch up with him. He would bid farewell to the game that made him a legend. He would do it when he felt the time was right. He would do it when he felt he had nothing left to give. One thing is for sure the end of Mariano Rivera's career would not come on a torn ACL shagging fly balls during batting practice.
On March 3, 2012 Mariano Rivera was doing something he has done many times before, he chased a fly ball during batting practice....except this time something went terribly wrong. He lunged for a fly ball near the warning track when he lost his footing and landed on the field clutching his knee in agony. It didn't take long for his teammates, manager, and members of the training staff to rush to his aid, but, the damage had been done. No one knew at the time, but Rivera suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee and a partially torn meniscus. Rivera will miss the rest of the 2012 season.
In Rivera's initial interview shortly after the injury, Rivera was emotional and somber. He didn't give off much hope of a return to the mound that he has stood on countless times before. The baseball world held their breath. But, in an interview with Pedro Gomez just a day later, Rivera was strong and absolute. " I am coming back. Put it down. Write it down in big letters. I'm not going down like this. God willing and given the strength, I am coming back." His Yankee teammates offered encouraging words for an imminent return.
Rivera was said to have addressed his teammates before that Friday night game against the Royals. What would be spoken in that locker room remains a mystery. But, I'm sure you could hear a pin drop as he spoke. His Yankee teammates love and respect him, that much is obvious. One can rest assured, Rivera's presence will still be felt around the clubhouse in his absence. He will be there to offer encouragement to his teammates, as well as advice to his young protege, David Robertson.
Mariano Rivera is the best closer of all time. It is hard to believe that in 1997, the late George Steinbrenner almost traded Rivera to the Mariners for Randy Johnson. A move that no doubt would have been a disaster. Yes, dominant starters are hard to come by, but a lights out closer, IMPOSSIBLE to come by. Fast forward fifteen years later, and here we are. As a lifelong Yankee fan, I am grateful to have seen in my lifetime, a legend. I am grateful to have a closer that in eighteen years as a New York Yankee had 608 saves with a 2.21 ERA. Derek Jeter once claimed " He's the most mentally tough person I have ever played with". Ex-Yankee manager, Joe Torre once said, "He's the best I've ever been around. Not only the ability to pitch and
perform under pressure, but the calm he puts over the clubhouse. He's
very important for us because he's a special person." A special person is right, a special person that I am grateful to have seen in my lifetime. Thanks Mariano for the memories, I look forward to many more.
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Sunday, April 22, 2012
My thoughts...
In a time when trashy, talentless reality shows rule the airwaves and seemingly poorly written pilots get picked up by ratings starved networks, sports is my greatest escape. So lucky for me this is a great time of the year!
It is not even a month into the season and there has already been three no-hit bids and a perfect game.
NBA playoffs are about to begin, NHL playoffs are in full swing, and baseball, my personal fave is well into the first month of the season. Mayweather is about to disgrace the sport of boxing once again with his May 5th fight against Miguel Cotto and the NFL draft is just a week away.
Not even a month into the season and the 2012 MLB season has not disappointed. On the 100th year anniversary of Fenway Park, many current MLB players have talked about their adoration for the historic ballpark. But, the mystique and nostalgia of the ballpark is not going to matter much to Sox fans if the Sox continue playing as if it is still Spring Training and these games don't matter. Realistic Sox fans have already called this year a wash, citing aging players, poor pitching, and stagnant offense. The other half of the fan base is sticking with their slogan "Believe". They hope that everything will kick in at the right time, a blockbuster trade will be made at the deadline and Francona will arrive on his white horse and save the day. It is way to early in the season to make predictions, but is is not looking good for Red Sox Nation. Blaming all of the Sox woes on Valentine is comical. Yeah, the guy hasn't exactly hit it off with his team, fans, or members of New England Media. But, the Sox's problems exist beyond the managers control. The Red Sox pitching is dead last in the majors. Their ace, Beckett is boasting a 5.03 ERA and has already given up six home runs. The bullpen is a mess and closer by committee is obviously not working. Oh, and to throw salt on the wounds of fans, the ex-Red Sox closer Papelbon is laughing his way to a 1.29 ERA over on the Phillies. Valentine doesn't stand a chance if this pitching staff keeps throwing batting practice.
Yeah, the officiating in the NBA is as bad as it gets, but that doesn't stop me from watching. This year there is no clear favorite to win the championship. Newsflash to Bulls fans nostalgic about yester year, the Bulls aren't winning the championship without a HEALTHY Derrick Rose. After watching and dissecting last night's Bulls-Heat game, that conclusion was not hard to come by. Tempers flared, an ejection, and technicals were dispersed, but in the end the Heat pulled it off. The same Heat that have struggled on the road with teams with winning records. The same Heat that had their butts handed to them by the aging Celtics on their home court. The same Heat that Magic Johnson has recently criticized their star player for not being mentally tough enough. Time will tell, but I don't think either team from this match-up will be hoisting the trophy come June. Oklahoma City is my favorite out of the West, Durant, Westbrook, and Ibaka are a deadly match-up, add Fisher as the veteran presence and this may be there year.The pure athleticism of the team is enough to tire any team in a seven game series. The Celtics are my favorite out of the East. They have shown they can beat the Heat, and with Wades latest injury, beating them is more likely. The Bulls can beat the Celts without Rose and considering the Celtics impressive record since the All-Star break, they are clearly one of the hottest teams in the NBA right now. The West seems to have more wild cards, Denver, the Lakers...anything can happen. Either way, I am looking forward to the fireworks.
The next few weeks will be full of excitement and I am ready for it.
It is not even a month into the season and there has already been three no-hit bids and a perfect game.
NBA playoffs are about to begin, NHL playoffs are in full swing, and baseball, my personal fave is well into the first month of the season. Mayweather is about to disgrace the sport of boxing once again with his May 5th fight against Miguel Cotto and the NFL draft is just a week away.
Not even a month into the season and the 2012 MLB season has not disappointed. On the 100th year anniversary of Fenway Park, many current MLB players have talked about their adoration for the historic ballpark. But, the mystique and nostalgia of the ballpark is not going to matter much to Sox fans if the Sox continue playing as if it is still Spring Training and these games don't matter. Realistic Sox fans have already called this year a wash, citing aging players, poor pitching, and stagnant offense. The other half of the fan base is sticking with their slogan "Believe". They hope that everything will kick in at the right time, a blockbuster trade will be made at the deadline and Francona will arrive on his white horse and save the day. It is way to early in the season to make predictions, but is is not looking good for Red Sox Nation. Blaming all of the Sox woes on Valentine is comical. Yeah, the guy hasn't exactly hit it off with his team, fans, or members of New England Media. But, the Sox's problems exist beyond the managers control. The Red Sox pitching is dead last in the majors. Their ace, Beckett is boasting a 5.03 ERA and has already given up six home runs. The bullpen is a mess and closer by committee is obviously not working. Oh, and to throw salt on the wounds of fans, the ex-Red Sox closer Papelbon is laughing his way to a 1.29 ERA over on the Phillies. Valentine doesn't stand a chance if this pitching staff keeps throwing batting practice.
Yeah, the officiating in the NBA is as bad as it gets, but that doesn't stop me from watching. This year there is no clear favorite to win the championship. Newsflash to Bulls fans nostalgic about yester year, the Bulls aren't winning the championship without a HEALTHY Derrick Rose. After watching and dissecting last night's Bulls-Heat game, that conclusion was not hard to come by. Tempers flared, an ejection, and technicals were dispersed, but in the end the Heat pulled it off. The same Heat that have struggled on the road with teams with winning records. The same Heat that had their butts handed to them by the aging Celtics on their home court. The same Heat that Magic Johnson has recently criticized their star player for not being mentally tough enough. Time will tell, but I don't think either team from this match-up will be hoisting the trophy come June. Oklahoma City is my favorite out of the West, Durant, Westbrook, and Ibaka are a deadly match-up, add Fisher as the veteran presence and this may be there year.The pure athleticism of the team is enough to tire any team in a seven game series. The Celtics are my favorite out of the East. They have shown they can beat the Heat, and with Wades latest injury, beating them is more likely. The Bulls can beat the Celts without Rose and considering the Celtics impressive record since the All-Star break, they are clearly one of the hottest teams in the NBA right now. The West seems to have more wild cards, Denver, the Lakers...anything can happen. Either way, I am looking forward to the fireworks.
The next few weeks will be full of excitement and I am ready for it.
Friday, March 23, 2012
What happened to Joba?
On August 7, 2007, New York Yankee Joba Chamberlain made his much anticipated debut against the Toronto Blue Jays. It wasn't a perfect start for Joba, he went 2.3 innings, gave up one earned run, walked four, and struck out three. But, there was something about this young man from Nebraska that gave hope to fans that they could be witnessing the next Yankee great.
Earlier in the 2007 season, Yankee fans began to lose hope when it looked as if the pitching staff was being held together by a piece of tape. Mike Mussina was on a down slide, Kei Igawa became the next Hideki Irabu, and Phil Hughes showed signs of being NOT major league ready. Joba, the Yankees top prospect, breezed through the farm system, wowing everyone with his electric fastball, a pitch that has been known to hit the radar gun at 101. Media and fans went crazy over the idea of Joba. He looked major league ready, but brass still wanted to handle him with kid gloves. Joba's usage in games was limited, creating the media friendly phrase "Joba Rules" that prevented him from pitching on consecutive days and restricted his pitch count.
On August 30, 2007 Joba helped along the Yanks-Sox rivalry by throwing two pitches over the head of Kevin Youkilis. He was suspended for two games and fined $1,000 for the incident, but it won even more adoration in the heart of Yankee fans.
Joba's raw passion, energy, and talent made him an instant fan favorite. During the 2007 ALDS against Cleveland, Joba was swarmed by hundreds of small insects, insects that didn't seem to go anywhere near the Indians. He struggled with his control and threw two wild pitches, giving up the tying run. The Yanks never rebounded. The Indians went on to win the series 3-1. Even though Joba ended the season with a dominant 0.38 ERA, his confidence was shaken during that fateful game in October.
A young man that showed so much promise never quite followed the heroics from the 2007 season. The Steinbrenner's messed with Chamberlain moving him from starter to reliever and back over and over again. Joba left the team briefly in 2008 to tend to his sick father. Not too long after he came back, Joba injured his shoulder and was placed on the 15 day DL, but this injury would turn out to be a lingerer. 2009 and 2010 became a wash with Chamberlain struggling throughout. Then in June of 2011, Chamberlain was placed on the disabled list and had Tommy John surgery.
Fast forward present day, spring training 2012, Joba dislocated his right ankle jumping on a trampoline with his son. Cashman has called this injury "massive" and will most likely cause Chamberlain the entire 2012 season.
Joba Chamberlain went from being the next big thing to the next Carl Pavano. Did I imagine 2007?
What happened to Joba Chamberlain? Did the bug fiasco bring out the inner head case and affect his confidence? Did the uncertainty of his role affect his performance? Is he just injury prone? Or was 2007 just a fluke? Or all of the above?
I admit, it would be unrealistic to expect the 2007 performance to be repeated every year. In 24 innings, Joba struck out 34 batters, walking only 6, and gave up one home run. His fastball was devastating, breaking into triple digits six times that season. His slider was by far his second best pitch, clocking in at an average of 86.6 MPH. He was polarizing on the mound. Would it be too much to ask for him to show up? Is it too much to ask for him to show a glimpse of the passion he once had? Or would it be too much to ask for him to stay off trampolines?
I guess only time will tell. But, right now it is appearing that the legend of Joba Chamberlain will be frozen in time during the 2007 season. Hopefully for his sake he won't be known as "the pitcher who showed so much promise, but just couldn't live up to the hype". See you next year Joba!
Earlier in the 2007 season, Yankee fans began to lose hope when it looked as if the pitching staff was being held together by a piece of tape. Mike Mussina was on a down slide, Kei Igawa became the next Hideki Irabu, and Phil Hughes showed signs of being NOT major league ready. Joba, the Yankees top prospect, breezed through the farm system, wowing everyone with his electric fastball, a pitch that has been known to hit the radar gun at 101. Media and fans went crazy over the idea of Joba. He looked major league ready, but brass still wanted to handle him with kid gloves. Joba's usage in games was limited, creating the media friendly phrase "Joba Rules" that prevented him from pitching on consecutive days and restricted his pitch count.
On August 30, 2007 Joba helped along the Yanks-Sox rivalry by throwing two pitches over the head of Kevin Youkilis. He was suspended for two games and fined $1,000 for the incident, but it won even more adoration in the heart of Yankee fans.
Joba's raw passion, energy, and talent made him an instant fan favorite. During the 2007 ALDS against Cleveland, Joba was swarmed by hundreds of small insects, insects that didn't seem to go anywhere near the Indians. He struggled with his control and threw two wild pitches, giving up the tying run. The Yanks never rebounded. The Indians went on to win the series 3-1. Even though Joba ended the season with a dominant 0.38 ERA, his confidence was shaken during that fateful game in October.
A young man that showed so much promise never quite followed the heroics from the 2007 season. The Steinbrenner's messed with Chamberlain moving him from starter to reliever and back over and over again. Joba left the team briefly in 2008 to tend to his sick father. Not too long after he came back, Joba injured his shoulder and was placed on the 15 day DL, but this injury would turn out to be a lingerer. 2009 and 2010 became a wash with Chamberlain struggling throughout. Then in June of 2011, Chamberlain was placed on the disabled list and had Tommy John surgery.
Fast forward present day, spring training 2012, Joba dislocated his right ankle jumping on a trampoline with his son. Cashman has called this injury "massive" and will most likely cause Chamberlain the entire 2012 season.
Joba Chamberlain went from being the next big thing to the next Carl Pavano. Did I imagine 2007?
What happened to Joba Chamberlain? Did the bug fiasco bring out the inner head case and affect his confidence? Did the uncertainty of his role affect his performance? Is he just injury prone? Or was 2007 just a fluke? Or all of the above?
I admit, it would be unrealistic to expect the 2007 performance to be repeated every year. In 24 innings, Joba struck out 34 batters, walking only 6, and gave up one home run. His fastball was devastating, breaking into triple digits six times that season. His slider was by far his second best pitch, clocking in at an average of 86.6 MPH. He was polarizing on the mound. Would it be too much to ask for him to show up? Is it too much to ask for him to show a glimpse of the passion he once had? Or would it be too much to ask for him to stay off trampolines?
I guess only time will tell. But, right now it is appearing that the legend of Joba Chamberlain will be frozen in time during the 2007 season. Hopefully for his sake he won't be known as "the pitcher who showed so much promise, but just couldn't live up to the hype". See you next year Joba!
March Madness- sans brackets....
What a week in sports! Peyton Manning has found a new home, Tebow has found a new house of worship and the NFL came down hard on the New Orleans Saints. Don't even get me started on my bracket.
On Tuesday, March 20th, Peyton Manning signed a 5-year, $96 million dollar contract with the Denver Broncos. After a couple of weeks of visiting potential suitors, like the Miami Dolphins, Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, and the Tennessee Titans, Manning was more than ready to say yes to hall of famer John Elway. It is going to be weird seeing Peyton in a jersey that is not white and blue. But, it will be intriguing to see if arguably the best QB in the game comes back from four neck surgeries to be the steadfast leader he once was. Passionate Bronco fans, fresh off the roller coaster ride that was Tim Tebow, can't help but be ecstatic over signing Manning. Even diehard Tebow supporters can't bring themselves to knock down Peyton. How could you? One QB has proven himself, the other has a lot to prove. Manning says all the right things and is the ultimate leader on the field. But, why did Peyton pick the Broncos? It wasn't about the money. Any of Manning's numerous suitors would have given him the contract his career paved the way for. So, what was it? Let's look at the Denver Broncos. They have a solid backfield, a pretty convincing offensive line, and nearly $40 million dollars left in cap space to provide Manning with the targets he needs (possibly Dallas Clark or Peyton's former teammate, Jeff Saturday). Denver has a rich history and consistently competes. The decision seems like a no brainer to me. Out of all of Mannings would be suitors, the Broncos are Mannings best chance at another Superbowl ring.
What about Tim Tebow? After, a few days of back and forth, Tebow is officially traded to the New York Jets. Procedural issues delayed the trade initially, but the Jets had no intention of letting a little thing like procedure get in the way of their fantasy. Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum was insistent during a conference call Wednesday night, that he will use Tebow as a back up QB to Sanchez, a backup QB that can run the Wildcat. We will see how long that back up position lasts. Tebow is Rex Ryan's dream QB, and it is no secret that Sanchez and Rexy don't get along. The Jets had enough internal issues before this controversial trade. It is only a matter of time before the team or the media, or both, blow up this fairy tale for Ryan and Tannenbaum. This is just another crazy chapter in the book of Rex Ryan.
Earlier this month, the NFL reported, after a two year investigation that former Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams was the brain trust of a scheme that payed players to injure their opponents. The report implicated as many as 27 Saints players. This came as a surprise to many, considering the solid reputation of the New Orleans Saints. Commissioner Goodell doesn't seem to share the sentiment. Goodell indefinitely suspended Gregg Williams, fined the Saints $500,000, handed out minor suspensions to the GM and assistant head coach, and suspended head coach Sean Payton for one year. Payton is the first head coach to suspended for a season. The NFL came down hard on the Saints to set an example that this behavior will not be tolerated. Really, these players actually needed extra motivation to do their job. The veteran minimum is $355,000, I'm sure that extra grand a player would make to see a player carted off the field was worth it. What a joke!
Less than two weeks until opening day, my focus turns to baseball. Till next time....
On Tuesday, March 20th, Peyton Manning signed a 5-year, $96 million dollar contract with the Denver Broncos. After a couple of weeks of visiting potential suitors, like the Miami Dolphins, Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, and the Tennessee Titans, Manning was more than ready to say yes to hall of famer John Elway. It is going to be weird seeing Peyton in a jersey that is not white and blue. But, it will be intriguing to see if arguably the best QB in the game comes back from four neck surgeries to be the steadfast leader he once was. Passionate Bronco fans, fresh off the roller coaster ride that was Tim Tebow, can't help but be ecstatic over signing Manning. Even diehard Tebow supporters can't bring themselves to knock down Peyton. How could you? One QB has proven himself, the other has a lot to prove. Manning says all the right things and is the ultimate leader on the field. But, why did Peyton pick the Broncos? It wasn't about the money. Any of Manning's numerous suitors would have given him the contract his career paved the way for. So, what was it? Let's look at the Denver Broncos. They have a solid backfield, a pretty convincing offensive line, and nearly $40 million dollars left in cap space to provide Manning with the targets he needs (possibly Dallas Clark or Peyton's former teammate, Jeff Saturday). Denver has a rich history and consistently competes. The decision seems like a no brainer to me. Out of all of Mannings would be suitors, the Broncos are Mannings best chance at another Superbowl ring.
What about Tim Tebow? After, a few days of back and forth, Tebow is officially traded to the New York Jets. Procedural issues delayed the trade initially, but the Jets had no intention of letting a little thing like procedure get in the way of their fantasy. Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum was insistent during a conference call Wednesday night, that he will use Tebow as a back up QB to Sanchez, a backup QB that can run the Wildcat. We will see how long that back up position lasts. Tebow is Rex Ryan's dream QB, and it is no secret that Sanchez and Rexy don't get along. The Jets had enough internal issues before this controversial trade. It is only a matter of time before the team or the media, or both, blow up this fairy tale for Ryan and Tannenbaum. This is just another crazy chapter in the book of Rex Ryan.
Earlier this month, the NFL reported, after a two year investigation that former Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams was the brain trust of a scheme that payed players to injure their opponents. The report implicated as many as 27 Saints players. This came as a surprise to many, considering the solid reputation of the New Orleans Saints. Commissioner Goodell doesn't seem to share the sentiment. Goodell indefinitely suspended Gregg Williams, fined the Saints $500,000, handed out minor suspensions to the GM and assistant head coach, and suspended head coach Sean Payton for one year. Payton is the first head coach to suspended for a season. The NFL came down hard on the Saints to set an example that this behavior will not be tolerated. Really, these players actually needed extra motivation to do their job. The veteran minimum is $355,000, I'm sure that extra grand a player would make to see a player carted off the field was worth it. What a joke!
Less than two weeks until opening day, my focus turns to baseball. Till next time....
Monday, March 5, 2012
Observations.....
We are a month removed from a Giants Superbowl win, Spring Training is in full swing, March Madness is here, and the true contenders in the NBA are showing their colors. Vancouver and Detroit are at the top of the NHL power rankings and finally Jerry Sandusky talk has been brought down to a minimum.
On this fine Monday in March, here are a couple of things that have been on my mind:
Miami Heat are Overrated:
Despite the constant propping of Lebron James, the Heat are NOT going to win the championship this year. James is known to put up some gaudy numbers during the regular season, or when the game isn't a must win. Some may argue that he has had a few game winning shots, I would argue that not one of those shots has brought him a championship.
In the finals last year, when the Miami Heat were beat in six by the Dallas Mavericks, Lebron James averaged 17.8 pts per game. His average was down 8.9 pts from the regular season, the largest drop off in pts from the regular season to the finals in NBA history. Clutch, I think not. In 2012, Lebron's teammate Chris Bosh was quoted as saying that he thought Dwayne Wade should be the one to take the last- second shot instead of James or himself. A lot of faith Bosh has in his teammate. To win a championship there are quite a few factors that contribute, Talent, Athleticism, Depth, Chemistry, Heart, and Playing as a Team. Lebron James is missing a few of those. Can you guess which ones? It certainly isn't talent or athleticism. Once, people can get over the star power of his name, they will realize James needs to grow up before he achieves the elusive ring.
Bobby Valentine is the new Rex Ryan:
A little advice to Bobby Valentine: the Yankees-Red Sox Rivalry has been around a long time before you took the Sox manager job and it will be there when you are long gone. Valentine thinks by running his mouth it will somehow ignite the rivalry that he is just now becoming a part of. It is going to take a lot more than Valentine's baseless comments to bring the spark back to the historic rivalry. For starters, both teams have to be competitors on the field. The season hasn't even started yet. After, the Red Sox historic September collapse last year and a mediocre offseason, the Sox still have plenty of looming questions. The Yanks look better on paper, but age could be an issue as the season progresses. Secondly, the players need to be willing participants and bring the heat. There is no longer a Varitek to palm Arod's face mask. No Pedro Martinez to throw at the head of an opposing Yankee. Beckett isn't as hotheaded as he was in the past, probably because his skills have diminished. The Yanks don't have a Karim Garcia to get into it with the Sox bullpen, or Jorge Posada to defend his teammates during a bench -clearing brawl. Something significant would have to happen to bring this rivalry back to life. Bobby V running his mouth is not it. Boston fans get sick of hearing Rex Ryan run his mouth with empty threats, well Boston fans, Bobby V is clearly in the beginning stages of becoming the next Rex Ryan. He needs to save it for his first clubhouse motivational speech.
Enough with the trade Rondo talk:
Trade rumors about Boston's All-Star point guard have been circulating for months. None of the proposed deals held any ground because the Celtics asking price is too high. President of operations Danny Ainge claims that his last serious talk regarding trading Rondo was in the offseason. I highly doubt that, considering we hear a new a story every week. Rajon Rondo has entered elite point guard status. He has had his ups and downs as a Celtic and at times can be described as moody, but all that is irrelevant when you look at the big picture. The last two weeks have been a world wind for him. He was suspended for two games after throwing the ball at a referee and showed patterns of inconsistency. Then came a division matchup against the Knicks. No one expected Rondo's historic game against much-hyped point guard Jeremy Lin and the athletic New York Knicks. Rondo had 18 points, 17 rebounds, and 20 assists en route to handing the Knicks to another loss at TD garden. This was only the third time in the history of the game that a player has recorded at least 20 assists and 17 rebounds in a game. The other two guys, oh, just a couple of men named Wilt Chamberlain and Magic Johnson. Not too shabby, huh? The Celtics have shown glimpses of their former selves in the last couple of weeks. I know that the Celtics chance of winning a championship this year are slim if they don't make a move by the trade deadline, but Rondo is not that move.
On this fine Monday in March, here are a couple of things that have been on my mind:
Miami Heat are Overrated:
Despite the constant propping of Lebron James, the Heat are NOT going to win the championship this year. James is known to put up some gaudy numbers during the regular season, or when the game isn't a must win. Some may argue that he has had a few game winning shots, I would argue that not one of those shots has brought him a championship.
In the finals last year, when the Miami Heat were beat in six by the Dallas Mavericks, Lebron James averaged 17.8 pts per game. His average was down 8.9 pts from the regular season, the largest drop off in pts from the regular season to the finals in NBA history. Clutch, I think not. In 2012, Lebron's teammate Chris Bosh was quoted as saying that he thought Dwayne Wade should be the one to take the last- second shot instead of James or himself. A lot of faith Bosh has in his teammate. To win a championship there are quite a few factors that contribute, Talent, Athleticism, Depth, Chemistry, Heart, and Playing as a Team. Lebron James is missing a few of those. Can you guess which ones? It certainly isn't talent or athleticism. Once, people can get over the star power of his name, they will realize James needs to grow up before he achieves the elusive ring.
Bobby Valentine is the new Rex Ryan:
A little advice to Bobby Valentine: the Yankees-Red Sox Rivalry has been around a long time before you took the Sox manager job and it will be there when you are long gone. Valentine thinks by running his mouth it will somehow ignite the rivalry that he is just now becoming a part of. It is going to take a lot more than Valentine's baseless comments to bring the spark back to the historic rivalry. For starters, both teams have to be competitors on the field. The season hasn't even started yet. After, the Red Sox historic September collapse last year and a mediocre offseason, the Sox still have plenty of looming questions. The Yanks look better on paper, but age could be an issue as the season progresses. Secondly, the players need to be willing participants and bring the heat. There is no longer a Varitek to palm Arod's face mask. No Pedro Martinez to throw at the head of an opposing Yankee. Beckett isn't as hotheaded as he was in the past, probably because his skills have diminished. The Yanks don't have a Karim Garcia to get into it with the Sox bullpen, or Jorge Posada to defend his teammates during a bench -clearing brawl. Something significant would have to happen to bring this rivalry back to life. Bobby V running his mouth is not it. Boston fans get sick of hearing Rex Ryan run his mouth with empty threats, well Boston fans, Bobby V is clearly in the beginning stages of becoming the next Rex Ryan. He needs to save it for his first clubhouse motivational speech.
Enough with the trade Rondo talk:
Trade rumors about Boston's All-Star point guard have been circulating for months. None of the proposed deals held any ground because the Celtics asking price is too high. President of operations Danny Ainge claims that his last serious talk regarding trading Rondo was in the offseason. I highly doubt that, considering we hear a new a story every week. Rajon Rondo has entered elite point guard status. He has had his ups and downs as a Celtic and at times can be described as moody, but all that is irrelevant when you look at the big picture. The last two weeks have been a world wind for him. He was suspended for two games after throwing the ball at a referee and showed patterns of inconsistency. Then came a division matchup against the Knicks. No one expected Rondo's historic game against much-hyped point guard Jeremy Lin and the athletic New York Knicks. Rondo had 18 points, 17 rebounds, and 20 assists en route to handing the Knicks to another loss at TD garden. This was only the third time in the history of the game that a player has recorded at least 20 assists and 17 rebounds in a game. The other two guys, oh, just a couple of men named Wilt Chamberlain and Magic Johnson. Not too shabby, huh? The Celtics have shown glimpses of their former selves in the last couple of weeks. I know that the Celtics chance of winning a championship this year are slim if they don't make a move by the trade deadline, but Rondo is not that move.
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Posada- Hall of Famer?
He was drafted by the New York Yankees in the 24th round of the 1990 MLB Draft as an infielder. He made his major league debut on September 4, 1995 as a catcher. He would win five Silver Slugger Awards, an award given out each year to the best offensive player in each position. Former pitcher David Cone called him stubborn, but strong and determined. His former manager, Joe Torre claimed he was clutch, that when he came up with the bases loaded or men on base, he was like ice. Another former pitcher David Wells described Posada as he knew him, "Jorge was exceptional behind the plate. He gave you so much in terms of his target, working the umpires, and with the level of communication that he had. To me, the pitcher has to be comfortable and in-sync with the catcher. He fought with me, worked with me, and knew the counts. If I didn’t see something that he did, I would shake off his sign, and he would just put down the same sign again. Whenever that happened, I realized that he knew something I didn’t. It speaks to the trust I had in him. He always wanted the pitcher to feel as comfortable as he could. That’s why in my mind, he was the greatest catcher." David Wells, Yankee teammate 1997-98, 2002-03; with Posada as catcher, tossed a perfect game May 17,1998 vs. Minnesota.
On January 7, 2012, WFAN radio in New York was the first to report that Jorge Posada plans to retire after 17th years as a New York Yankee. On January 24, 2012, Jorge Posada announced his
retirement to the world. An emotional Posada said "I could never wear another uniform". He also quoted Joe Dimaggio's famous words " I want to thank the good Lord for making me a
Yankee".
It is a sad day as a Yankee fan, but not one that comes as much of a surprise. The switch-
hitter's last season with the Yankees was a bumpy ride. Posada said recently that he was "not
comfortable" with the way his final season went. There were rumors early in the offseason that
there were a few teams interested in his services. But, ultimately, it seems as if Posada
would rather retire as a Yankee. With Posada's baseball career behind him, the hall of fame
question has begun to arise. Is Jorge Posada a hall of famer?
My answer: Absolutely. First ballot, doubtful, but a hall of famer nonetheless. For starters, Posada's has played in 1829 games, with 1664 hits, 275 HR, 1065 RBI's, and finished with
an average of .273. There are currently 13 catchers in the hall of fame. If you look at the statistics of the 16 catchers, Posada's numbers fit right in: http://www.baseball-almanac.com/hof/hofstca.shtml. He is one of only five major league catchers with 1,500 hits, 350 doubles, 275 home runs, and 1,000 RBI's in a career. In addition to that, he is the only major league catcher to hit .330, with 40 doubles, 20 home runs, and 90 RBI's in a single season. Oh, and he is just a five time all star, with five championship rings under his belt.
For me there is no argument as to if he will be inducted to the hall of fame, it is just a matter of when. As a Yankee fan, I am just thankful for the memories and countless walk off runs he provided.
On January 7, 2012, WFAN radio in New York was the first to report that Jorge Posada plans to retire after 17th years as a New York Yankee. On January 24, 2012, Jorge Posada announced his
retirement to the world. An emotional Posada said "I could never wear another uniform". He also quoted Joe Dimaggio's famous words " I want to thank the good Lord for making me a
Yankee".
It is a sad day as a Yankee fan, but not one that comes as much of a surprise. The switch-
hitter's last season with the Yankees was a bumpy ride. Posada said recently that he was "not
comfortable" with the way his final season went. There were rumors early in the offseason that
there were a few teams interested in his services. But, ultimately, it seems as if Posada
would rather retire as a Yankee. With Posada's baseball career behind him, the hall of fame
question has begun to arise. Is Jorge Posada a hall of famer?
My answer: Absolutely. First ballot, doubtful, but a hall of famer nonetheless. For starters, Posada's has played in 1829 games, with 1664 hits, 275 HR, 1065 RBI's, and finished with
an average of .273. There are currently 13 catchers in the hall of fame. If you look at the statistics of the 16 catchers, Posada's numbers fit right in: http://www.baseball-almanac.com/hof/hofstca.shtml. He is one of only five major league catchers with 1,500 hits, 350 doubles, 275 home runs, and 1,000 RBI's in a career. In addition to that, he is the only major league catcher to hit .330, with 40 doubles, 20 home runs, and 90 RBI's in a single season. Oh, and he is just a five time all star, with five championship rings under his belt.
For me there is no argument as to if he will be inducted to the hall of fame, it is just a matter of when. As a Yankee fan, I am just thankful for the memories and countless walk off runs he provided.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
MVP? Rodgers, Brees, or Brady
2011 has been the season of the QB. Whether it is first overall pick Cam Newton living up to the hype, or ex-Gator Tebow quieting his critics. There has been no shortage of focus on the talent and dramatics of a number of QB's in the 2011 season, thankfully none of their last names begin with F and end with E. But, three QB's have stood out among the rest: Rodgers, Brees, and Brady.
The Super Bowl Champion Green Bay Packers have quickly become the team to beat. Coming off a dramatic Super Bowl win, led by California native Aaron Rodgers, the Packers are muzzling their critics, proving that a repeat could very well be in the cards. Rodgers has thrown for 4,643 yards with a passer rating of 122.5. His touchdown total of 45 almost doubles that of the 2010 total when they hoisted the Lombardi trophy. With only one game left and one loss on the season, the Packers are a heavy favorite to be defending their title in Indianapolis in February. If Jennings and Starks are healthy come playoff time, that road might not be such a difficult one. At only 28 years old, with arguably the best arm in the league, Rodgers is on his way to a hall of fame career. Not bad for a guy who had to endure sitting on the bench behind Favre's antics and constant flip-flopping for three seasons.
Five time pro-bowler Drew Brees is having another explosive year. He has thrown for 5,087 yards, becoming the all-time single season passing leader and has the most 300+ passing yards in a season. In 2011, he boasts a completion percentage of 71.5, better than both Brady and Rodgers. Chosen by San Diego in the second round of the 2001 draft, Brees has gone on to have a remarkable career. He does not look to be slowing down any time soon. The 2009 Super Bowl Champion New Orleans Saints led by Drew Brees may be the only road block standing in the way of a Packer return trip to the Super Bowl. The San Diego Chargers opted on taking a chance with Philip Rivers, while Miami signed Daunte Culpepper after the 2005 season due to the trepidation of Brees not being completely healthy. That is irony at its best, considering Culpepper didn't even last an entire season with the Dolphins before undergoing surgery for a nagging knee problem. I bet the Chargers and Dolphins are ecstatic with their decision on doubting Drew Brees.
2011 has been another exceptional year for Tom Terrific. Brady has thrown for 4,897 yards, with still one game left to play in the regular season. The multiple record holder and three time Super Bowl winner has boasted a pretty impressive career and this year has not been to shabby. Just this past week, Brady became the only QB to throw for 36 or more touchdowns in three NFL seasons. Just a week before, Brady became just the 7th QB in the history of the NFL to have multiple seasons of 4,500+ passing yards. Brady could easily make an argument to be MVP every year except two of his 12 year career.
We won't know who will be MVP until after the regular season. The last game of the season could be the final push that these three QB's need to cement their MVP status. My prediction for MVP is Aaron Rodgers. Who do you think deserves the honors?
The Super Bowl Champion Green Bay Packers have quickly become the team to beat. Coming off a dramatic Super Bowl win, led by California native Aaron Rodgers, the Packers are muzzling their critics, proving that a repeat could very well be in the cards. Rodgers has thrown for 4,643 yards with a passer rating of 122.5. His touchdown total of 45 almost doubles that of the 2010 total when they hoisted the Lombardi trophy. With only one game left and one loss on the season, the Packers are a heavy favorite to be defending their title in Indianapolis in February. If Jennings and Starks are healthy come playoff time, that road might not be such a difficult one. At only 28 years old, with arguably the best arm in the league, Rodgers is on his way to a hall of fame career. Not bad for a guy who had to endure sitting on the bench behind Favre's antics and constant flip-flopping for three seasons.
Five time pro-bowler Drew Brees is having another explosive year. He has thrown for 5,087 yards, becoming the all-time single season passing leader and has the most 300+ passing yards in a season. In 2011, he boasts a completion percentage of 71.5, better than both Brady and Rodgers. Chosen by San Diego in the second round of the 2001 draft, Brees has gone on to have a remarkable career. He does not look to be slowing down any time soon. The 2009 Super Bowl Champion New Orleans Saints led by Drew Brees may be the only road block standing in the way of a Packer return trip to the Super Bowl. The San Diego Chargers opted on taking a chance with Philip Rivers, while Miami signed Daunte Culpepper after the 2005 season due to the trepidation of Brees not being completely healthy. That is irony at its best, considering Culpepper didn't even last an entire season with the Dolphins before undergoing surgery for a nagging knee problem. I bet the Chargers and Dolphins are ecstatic with their decision on doubting Drew Brees.
2011 has been another exceptional year for Tom Terrific. Brady has thrown for 4,897 yards, with still one game left to play in the regular season. The multiple record holder and three time Super Bowl winner has boasted a pretty impressive career and this year has not been to shabby. Just this past week, Brady became the only QB to throw for 36 or more touchdowns in three NFL seasons. Just a week before, Brady became just the 7th QB in the history of the NFL to have multiple seasons of 4,500+ passing yards. Brady could easily make an argument to be MVP every year except two of his 12 year career.
We won't know who will be MVP until after the regular season. The last game of the season could be the final push that these three QB's need to cement their MVP status. My prediction for MVP is Aaron Rodgers. Who do you think deserves the honors?
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