I only managed to correctly guess three of the eight teams to make the trip to Omaha. I got Texas, Tulane and Nebraska right. Baylor, Tennessee, Florida, Arizona State and Oregon State round out the CWS field and make me look silly, as usual. (In my defense, I did get 12 of the 16 teams from the opening rounds correctly.)
I'm happily wrong about Oregon State, as I tend to root for schools in the north. I'm really annoyed about ASU because when I initially reviewed the brackets, I liked the Sun Devils chances. However, the big media boys filled my tiny brain with all the pro-Fullerton talk and basically talked me out of picking ASU entirely. AZ State didn't even get a mention in my tournament preview post. I'm glad Arizona State is headed for Nebraska, but I wish I would have picked them. Further proof that I am not very smart.
(A note to Detroit Tigers fans: Arizona State's CWS appearance means we can all get a look at draft choice Jeff Larish. The Sun Devils firstbaseman will probably be in the Tigers farm system when ASU's run is over.)
I'm still predicting a Tulane triumph, but I'm rooting for Oregon State to do well.
For information regarding the CWS use these links:
NCAA Baseball
CWS Omaha.com
Monday, June 13, 2005
Sunday, June 12, 2005
Michigan Football Preview
College Football News' writer Pete Fiutak preview's the 2005 Michigan football team. Click here for a look.
No, Spartan faitful, I'm not trying to play favorites here. I just don't see a link to the MSU preview to provide you with.
No, Spartan faitful, I'm not trying to play favorites here. I just don't see a link to the MSU preview to provide you with.
Prince Must Shine
You can get overwhelmed with analysis of the NBA Finals. I'll keep my preview of tonight's tilt simple. Here is the one thing I am looking for: Tayshaun Prince's ability to score, especially in while posting up Manu Ginobili.
Prince, who one could argue was Detroit's MVP of the regular season, has had a sub-par playoff. Contrary to his previous two post-seasons, Prince has not sparked the Pistons at either end of the floor.
It looks to me like Prince can abuse Ginobili on the block, but he has to be able to hit those baby hook shots and finger-rolls that he has missed thus far. Prince also looks like he can beat several of the Spurs off the dribble, but has been unable to finish those, either. That absolutely has to change.
Prince must become a true threat to score, especially over Ginobili. Once Prince has established that, he can fall back some and hit the occasional three. Getting Ginobili to work harder defensively would also be a welcome sight.
Prince has seemed timid offensively since the playoffs began. That must change. The Pistons need him to become a force. They need him tonight.
Prince, who one could argue was Detroit's MVP of the regular season, has had a sub-par playoff. Contrary to his previous two post-seasons, Prince has not sparked the Pistons at either end of the floor.
It looks to me like Prince can abuse Ginobili on the block, but he has to be able to hit those baby hook shots and finger-rolls that he has missed thus far. Prince also looks like he can beat several of the Spurs off the dribble, but has been unable to finish those, either. That absolutely has to change.
Prince must become a true threat to score, especially over Ginobili. Once Prince has established that, he can fall back some and hit the occasional three. Getting Ginobili to work harder defensively would also be a welcome sight.
Prince has seemed timid offensively since the playoffs began. That must change. The Pistons need him to become a force. They need him tonight.
Year One
Today marks the first anniversary of my blog. Who said it wouldn't last? Oh, that's right. That was me. Well, fortunately for both of my loyal readers, I was wrong. (Yes, again.)
I thank those who have stopped by, those of you that have taken the time to email me and those bloggers who have added Beyond Boxscores to their links.
Feel free to raise a glass of your favorite beverage in honor of this momentous day.
I thank those who have stopped by, those of you that have taken the time to email me and those bloggers who have added Beyond Boxscores to their links.
Feel free to raise a glass of your favorite beverage in honor of this momentous day.
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
Polanco-Urbina Deal
"What?". That was my first reaction when I heard about the Detroit Tigers dealing Ugie Urbina (and Ramon Martinez) to Philadelphia for infielder Placido Polanco. My gut reaction was this was a bad deal. Not because Polanco is a bad player. He is, in fact, a fine upgrade at secondbase. No, the reason I didn't like the trade is because I just don't quite see the logic in the move. Billfer at the Detroit Tigers Weblog did a good job of summing up my sentiments.
Basically, this deal seems to just create as many questions as it answers. There's no reason not to embrace Polanco's arrival, but I have to wonder if it's really what is best for the organization?
Basically, this deal seems to just create as many questions as it answers. There's no reason not to embrace Polanco's arrival, but I have to wonder if it's really what is best for the organization?
Tuesday, June 07, 2005
Draft Day Thoughts And Tigers Links
The Tigers ended up going with high schooler Cameron Maybin with the tenth overall selection in the draft. This is a good news/bad news situation. The good news is that many, including the staff at Baseball America, thought Maybin was a top five pick. In theory, the Tigers got a minor steal. In theory.
My problem with the pick is that Maybin is probably further from contributing to the success of the big league club than I would like. That's not unusual, most high school kids fall into that category, thus my preference for college players. However, I still believe the Tigers are in need of some more immediate assistance.
However, I can't fault the Tigers for taking a player with Maybin's upside. Obviously, I will be a member of the Cameron Maybin Fan Club until given a reason not to be.
Their second round choice was kind of puzzling. Chris Robinson, catcher, from Illinois. I think most teams thought he would go much later in the draft. I know I did. I like the kid, I'm a Big Ten baseball fan, so I embraced his selection. I was just caught off guard by how early he went. Happy to have him wearing the Old English D. Or that nifty Sea Wolf.
Can't say I know one stinking thing about third rounder Kevin Whelan. What I've read so far indicates he is projected to be a closer. I'm guessing he throws hard, as Dave Dombrowski isn't a fan of the soft tossers. As I stated earlier, I prefer the college kids, and Whelan was the first of three straight NCAA players the Tigers grabbed.
I like fourth rounder Jeff Larish of Arizona State. He hits for power and gets a fairly healthy amount of free passes. I would think he would start at Lakeland, but wouldn't be there very long. AA Erie isn't out of the question, in my mind, though, as the Pac-10 provides a fairly high level of competition.
Fifth rounder Michael "Clete" Thomas appears to have decent wheels and a good bat. (I'm assuming Clete and Michael are one and the same. There is only one other Thomas on Auburn's roster he is a freshman, thus ineligible for the draft.) Both Thomas and Maybin are centerfielders by trade. I wonder if Maybin's career will begin at Lakeland and Thomas at Erie? I love the nickname, Clete. Cannot recall one in baseball since Clete Boyer.
After Thomas, the Tigers selected five pitchers in a row. Again, I don't know anything about the remaining choices on Day 1. We will all have to wait to hear about their long-term potential over the next several days.
In an interesting note for the Maize and Blue fans out there, Zach Putnam didn't get drafted until very late. I thought I heard the 8th round. The Ann Arbor native was projected at the beginning of the year to go in the top ten picks overall. I suspect that his lower than expected draft selection increases the odds he joins the Michigan baseball squad next year. I hope so, anyway.
Here are some Tiger links for your reading pleasure. Billfer at the Detroit Tigers Weblog keeps up with the draft here.
Jeff at TigerBlog wonders about what to do with Urbina ? To trade or not to trade? That is the question. (As always, my answer is "What are the Tigers getting in return?")
With a post getting all kinds of links throughout Tigertown, Blue Cats and Red Sox makes me want to quit blogging immediately with her fine poetry on the Tigers/O's contest. You just can't compete with that kind of stuff. Well, I can't anyway.
Correction: I was wrong. Apparently, Zach Putnam did not get drafted at all on the first day. I hope to see Putnam in Big Ten play next spring.
My problem with the pick is that Maybin is probably further from contributing to the success of the big league club than I would like. That's not unusual, most high school kids fall into that category, thus my preference for college players. However, I still believe the Tigers are in need of some more immediate assistance.
However, I can't fault the Tigers for taking a player with Maybin's upside. Obviously, I will be a member of the Cameron Maybin Fan Club until given a reason not to be.
Their second round choice was kind of puzzling. Chris Robinson, catcher, from Illinois. I think most teams thought he would go much later in the draft. I know I did. I like the kid, I'm a Big Ten baseball fan, so I embraced his selection. I was just caught off guard by how early he went. Happy to have him wearing the Old English D. Or that nifty Sea Wolf.
Can't say I know one stinking thing about third rounder Kevin Whelan. What I've read so far indicates he is projected to be a closer. I'm guessing he throws hard, as Dave Dombrowski isn't a fan of the soft tossers. As I stated earlier, I prefer the college kids, and Whelan was the first of three straight NCAA players the Tigers grabbed.
I like fourth rounder Jeff Larish of Arizona State. He hits for power and gets a fairly healthy amount of free passes. I would think he would start at Lakeland, but wouldn't be there very long. AA Erie isn't out of the question, in my mind, though, as the Pac-10 provides a fairly high level of competition.
Fifth rounder Michael "Clete" Thomas appears to have decent wheels and a good bat. (I'm assuming Clete and Michael are one and the same. There is only one other Thomas on Auburn's roster he is a freshman, thus ineligible for the draft.) Both Thomas and Maybin are centerfielders by trade. I wonder if Maybin's career will begin at Lakeland and Thomas at Erie? I love the nickname, Clete. Cannot recall one in baseball since Clete Boyer.
After Thomas, the Tigers selected five pitchers in a row. Again, I don't know anything about the remaining choices on Day 1. We will all have to wait to hear about their long-term potential over the next several days.
In an interesting note for the Maize and Blue fans out there, Zach Putnam didn't get drafted until very late. I thought I heard the 8th round. The Ann Arbor native was projected at the beginning of the year to go in the top ten picks overall. I suspect that his lower than expected draft selection increases the odds he joins the Michigan baseball squad next year. I hope so, anyway.
Here are some Tiger links for your reading pleasure. Billfer at the Detroit Tigers Weblog keeps up with the draft here.
Jeff at TigerBlog wonders about what to do with Urbina ? To trade or not to trade? That is the question. (As always, my answer is "What are the Tigers getting in return?")
With a post getting all kinds of links throughout Tigertown, Blue Cats and Red Sox makes me want to quit blogging immediately with her fine poetry on the Tigers/O's contest. You just can't compete with that kind of stuff. Well, I can't anyway.
Correction: I was wrong. Apparently, Zach Putnam did not get drafted at all on the first day. I hope to see Putnam in Big Ten play next spring.
Sunday, June 05, 2005
No Tickets For You
I failed to mention that I did not win MLB.com's All-Star Game ticket lottery. Yeah, I'm shocked, too. I mean how could I not win? Although, I did win the right to have my email box filled with other news (see spam) from MLB.com. Woo-hoo!
I'm trying to accept the fact that I may not be attending the game. Note the tone of that sentence. I haven't given up, but it sure doesn't look good.
I'm trying to accept the fact that I may not be attending the game. Note the tone of that sentence. I haven't given up, but it sure doesn't look good.
NCAA Baseball Links
Saturday, June 04, 2005
Deford Slams U.S. Sports Fans
When I first read this, I pretty much ignored it. The longer I mulled it over, though, the more angry I became. I like Frank Deford, but his view on our jingoism is off-base. I am proof of it.
Deford opines that we Americans only like sporting events with Americans in it. Well, Mr. Deford, let me introduce myself. I'm an American sports fan living in metropolitan Detroit, right smack in the middle of cow country, as one of my fellow American internet friends out east called it. I've been known to root for the Red, White and Blue, as well. I'm suspecting I may well be the stereotype of the jingoist you have outlined.
Unfortunately, I've got some bad news. I love the Tour de France. I've watched it for years. Like fifteen or twenty years. Not just since Lance Armstrong appeared. Do I get extra credit for being able to spit out Miguel Indurain's name?
I attempt to follow European soccer. I've developed an attachment to Premier League club, Everton. (Yes, I know. My readers are tired of hearing this. I talking to Mr. Deford, right now, okay?) My favorite Everton player is Tim Cahill. He's Australian, by the way.
I'm all geeked up about Germany 2006. When the World Cup came here, I went. I saw Brazil take on Holland. Not a single American on the pitch.
Wimbledon is one of my favorite sporting events. The French Open is pretty cool, too. Given my choice, I'll take open wheel racing over the stock car boys. I try to follow the Canadian Football League, but, of course, Americans do have the audacity to play there. (To make you feel better, Mr. Deford, they do have import rules, though. It's got to be a NAFTA thing.)
I enjoy watching golf overseas either late at night or early in the morning. The events from Australia, the ANZ Tour, I believe, are particularly fun. I'm usually plowing snow out of my drive and come in to see golfers struggling in ninety degree heat Down Under. Only an occasional fellow countryman appears, yet somehow I manage to watch.
Roland Garros is clay court. The courts at the All England Club are grass. I've got no idea what they play the Australian Open on, but I think it's safe to assume that it isn't something found in nature.
I know the difference between Boris Becker and Franz Beckenbauer. Michael Schumacher's brother is Ralf. I know what the R & A is. Not bad for one of those jingoistic Americans, huh? Imagine how much more I would know if the internet existed when I was young?
I'm sure Mr. Deford would counter that I am the exception to the rule. That may indeed be the case, but why are only Americans jingoistic for following their teams and their sports?
For instance, I know that Real Madrid has David Beckham, Michael Owen and Zinedine Zidane on their roster. I wonder how many on the streets of Madrid know three of my Detroit Lions? Hey, I know three of their footballers, shouldn't they be required to recognize three of mine?
Since Real Madrid may be international football's most noteworthy club, I'll forgive the citizens of Madrid for not knowing any of my historically crummy Lions. But, I'll bet they cannot name three New England Patriots, either. Doesn't that make them jingoistic, too?
Nope, what it makes them are products of their sports environment. We grew up in the U.S.A. with an entirely different set of sports at the forefront. I don't believe that Americans are any more or less jingoistic than the rest of the world simply because a majority of us aren't passionate about Formula One.
I believe that the overwhelming majority of sports fans worldwide root for their nation and their nation's athletes first. They know more about their local pro team than the team on the other end of the country or the other end of the world. That may be jingoism, but it's hardly an American phenomenon.
Instead of attempting to elevate the stature of some of the world's top sports stars with Americans, Mr. Deford chose to take the opportunity to ridicule the sophistication and intelligence of his reading audience. It makes Mr. Deford's commentary look elitist, at best. Anti-American, at worst.
After nearly 230 years as an independent nation, Americans still find themselves having to explain their interests, or lack their of, to the Old World. Or, at least, to old sports writers.
Deford opines that we Americans only like sporting events with Americans in it. Well, Mr. Deford, let me introduce myself. I'm an American sports fan living in metropolitan Detroit, right smack in the middle of cow country, as one of my fellow American internet friends out east called it. I've been known to root for the Red, White and Blue, as well. I'm suspecting I may well be the stereotype of the jingoist you have outlined.
Unfortunately, I've got some bad news. I love the Tour de France. I've watched it for years. Like fifteen or twenty years. Not just since Lance Armstrong appeared. Do I get extra credit for being able to spit out Miguel Indurain's name?
I attempt to follow European soccer. I've developed an attachment to Premier League club, Everton. (Yes, I know. My readers are tired of hearing this. I talking to Mr. Deford, right now, okay?) My favorite Everton player is Tim Cahill. He's Australian, by the way.
I'm all geeked up about Germany 2006. When the World Cup came here, I went. I saw Brazil take on Holland. Not a single American on the pitch.
Wimbledon is one of my favorite sporting events. The French Open is pretty cool, too. Given my choice, I'll take open wheel racing over the stock car boys. I try to follow the Canadian Football League, but, of course, Americans do have the audacity to play there. (To make you feel better, Mr. Deford, they do have import rules, though. It's got to be a NAFTA thing.)
I enjoy watching golf overseas either late at night or early in the morning. The events from Australia, the ANZ Tour, I believe, are particularly fun. I'm usually plowing snow out of my drive and come in to see golfers struggling in ninety degree heat Down Under. Only an occasional fellow countryman appears, yet somehow I manage to watch.
Roland Garros is clay court. The courts at the All England Club are grass. I've got no idea what they play the Australian Open on, but I think it's safe to assume that it isn't something found in nature.
I know the difference between Boris Becker and Franz Beckenbauer. Michael Schumacher's brother is Ralf. I know what the R & A is. Not bad for one of those jingoistic Americans, huh? Imagine how much more I would know if the internet existed when I was young?
I'm sure Mr. Deford would counter that I am the exception to the rule. That may indeed be the case, but why are only Americans jingoistic for following their teams and their sports?
For instance, I know that Real Madrid has David Beckham, Michael Owen and Zinedine Zidane on their roster. I wonder how many on the streets of Madrid know three of my Detroit Lions? Hey, I know three of their footballers, shouldn't they be required to recognize three of mine?
Since Real Madrid may be international football's most noteworthy club, I'll forgive the citizens of Madrid for not knowing any of my historically crummy Lions. But, I'll bet they cannot name three New England Patriots, either. Doesn't that make them jingoistic, too?
Nope, what it makes them are products of their sports environment. We grew up in the U.S.A. with an entirely different set of sports at the forefront. I don't believe that Americans are any more or less jingoistic than the rest of the world simply because a majority of us aren't passionate about Formula One.
I believe that the overwhelming majority of sports fans worldwide root for their nation and their nation's athletes first. They know more about their local pro team than the team on the other end of the country or the other end of the world. That may be jingoism, but it's hardly an American phenomenon.
Instead of attempting to elevate the stature of some of the world's top sports stars with Americans, Mr. Deford chose to take the opportunity to ridicule the sophistication and intelligence of his reading audience. It makes Mr. Deford's commentary look elitist, at best. Anti-American, at worst.
After nearly 230 years as an independent nation, Americans still find themselves having to explain their interests, or lack their of, to the Old World. Or, at least, to old sports writers.
Friday, June 03, 2005
Lambeau Field Gets Extra Game
Following in the footsteps of Michigan/Michigan State contest, Lambeau Field will host an outdoors college hockey game in February 2006. Wisconsin will play host to Ohio State. Here is the Yahoo! link.
College World Series Predictions
Yes, it's the post you all have been waiting for. It's time for me to make my College World Series predications. Remember, boys and girls, this is for entertainment purposes only. Put those nasty old bracket sheets and that money away.
I'll spare you the game by game, region by region analysis and skip to the Elite Eight. The eight teams I predict to play in Omaha are: Tulane, Long Beach State, Texas, Clemson, Georgia Tech, Florida State, Fullerton and Nebraska.
Yeah, it's a pretty standard group. Nothing really screams underdog. At least, not to me anyway. Some college baseball experts might disagree, but these are all either elite baseball powers or schools from power conferences or both.
Let me say that of the eight, two I really couldn't decide on. I'm less sold on Clemson and Georgia Tech than my other six choices. At some point during my thought process, I had both TCU and Baylor beating Clemson.
As for Tech, well, there is this school from Ann Arbor in their region that I sort of hope wins. Michigan can win the region, but getting past a Super Regional series in light of the up and down year the Wolverines have had is simply asking for too much.
As usual, I'm rooting for the Northern schools to do well. Ohio State, Notre Dame, Miami (OH), Maine and St. John's join Michigan in the NCAA's. Oregon State might even qualify for this group, but they are still from a power conference, so not quite the baseball underdog as the midwest and northeast institutions.
The finals should pit Tulane against.....against.....against Florida State. There I said it. FSU makes the finals. No, I have no foundation for that pick. I didn't have a clue about the other selections, either, but I didn't let that stop me.
*Note-The tournament started earlier today, but I have not yet seen a single result. I am confident that most of these schools have lost since I selected them to do otherwise.
I'll spare you the game by game, region by region analysis and skip to the Elite Eight. The eight teams I predict to play in Omaha are: Tulane, Long Beach State, Texas, Clemson, Georgia Tech, Florida State, Fullerton and Nebraska.
Yeah, it's a pretty standard group. Nothing really screams underdog. At least, not to me anyway. Some college baseball experts might disagree, but these are all either elite baseball powers or schools from power conferences or both.
Let me say that of the eight, two I really couldn't decide on. I'm less sold on Clemson and Georgia Tech than my other six choices. At some point during my thought process, I had both TCU and Baylor beating Clemson.
As for Tech, well, there is this school from Ann Arbor in their region that I sort of hope wins. Michigan can win the region, but getting past a Super Regional series in light of the up and down year the Wolverines have had is simply asking for too much.
As usual, I'm rooting for the Northern schools to do well. Ohio State, Notre Dame, Miami (OH), Maine and St. John's join Michigan in the NCAA's. Oregon State might even qualify for this group, but they are still from a power conference, so not quite the baseball underdog as the midwest and northeast institutions.
The finals should pit Tulane against.....against.....against Florida State. There I said it. FSU makes the finals. No, I have no foundation for that pick. I didn't have a clue about the other selections, either, but I didn't let that stop me.
*Note-The tournament started earlier today, but I have not yet seen a single result. I am confident that most of these schools have lost since I selected them to do otherwise.
Warming Up To Shaq
I've never been a Shaquille O'Neal fan. Not in college, where I thought his team underachieved. Not in the pros, where his game was more one of might than of skill, in my less than fuzzy opinion of his skills. Then there was his infamous "I have won at every level" statement issued at a time before he had won anything on any level. I was not on the Big Guy's bandwagon.
As the years have passed, O'Neal and I have matured. I've learned to respect his power game, even if not overly enamored with it. I have grown to enjoy his sense of humor. I like his banter with the media. He even seems like a pretty decent guy in spite of the millions. Yesterday, Shaq revealed that side by offering to pay for the funeral of basketball legend, George Mikan.
Like O'Neal, Mikan was the dominant big man of his era. Also, like Shaq, Mikan was an ex-Laker center. Apparently, some type of admiration developed between the two men and when O'Neal heard Mikan's family was having financial problems, he offered to pay for Mikan's funeral.
It was a class move. I stand impressed. Even if it was done in part for public relations, no one else made such a public offer to the family of pro basketball's original superstar. O'Neal may never be my all-time favorite player, but he certainly has changed my opinion about him.
As the years have passed, O'Neal and I have matured. I've learned to respect his power game, even if not overly enamored with it. I have grown to enjoy his sense of humor. I like his banter with the media. He even seems like a pretty decent guy in spite of the millions. Yesterday, Shaq revealed that side by offering to pay for the funeral of basketball legend, George Mikan.
Like O'Neal, Mikan was the dominant big man of his era. Also, like Shaq, Mikan was an ex-Laker center. Apparently, some type of admiration developed between the two men and when O'Neal heard Mikan's family was having financial problems, he offered to pay for Mikan's funeral.
It was a class move. I stand impressed. Even if it was done in part for public relations, no one else made such a public offer to the family of pro basketball's original superstar. O'Neal may never be my all-time favorite player, but he certainly has changed my opinion about him.
Saving Historic Detroit
Cruising the web the other day, I read this piece at CNN.com about Ernest Hemingway's home in Cuba. It seems that the National Trust has placed the author's home abroad on it's list of eleven most endangered places. I know. Big deal, right? Well, we can debate the merits of restoring Hemingway's home some other time, but what really caught my attention was the fact that Downtown Detroit's historical buildings made the list as well.
Now, as the "Historic Buildings of Downtown Detroit" title implies, the organization feels that a large number of buildings in our major urban area deserve to be restored, not just one or two. As a former history major, I can appreciate the desire of people to renovate these wonderful structures. Like all fragments of history, once they are gone, you simply cannot get them back.
I love the architecture of these old places. I love the link to the past. I love the thought of a city reborn with some of its history intact. I suspect no other major U.S. city would even allow these type of structures to fall into such a state of disrepair in the first place.
However, I also realize that the vast majority of these places have no renovation plan at all and even if they did, their owners' probably would be without the financial resources necessary to make renovation an option. (Of course, there's the notion that the owners of these buildings do have the money to renovate, but they just don't give a rodent's behind about the structures, but that's a subject for another day.)
Generally, I'm in the group of folks who believe the city is in desperate need of a bulldozing party in any numbers of parts of town. These buildings, once the heart of a thriving city, have turned into a part of the city's overall problem. They are nothing more today than part of the city's blight and safety hazards.
Only two things can turn that around- renovation or demolition. Unfortunately, renovation appears unlikely. Or, at least, unwanted by the powers-that-be.
That leaves demolition, but having watched Tiger Stadium make the transition from tourist attraction and fan favorite to neglected historical site, I'm in no mood to just randomly knock down everything in town.
The city unquestionably needs to start cleaning up, which has to include the destruction of some of these old sites, but I hope all parties are a bit more cautious before tossing history out the window. Hopefully, our old ballpark will serve as a reminder of opportunity wasted.
Now, as the "Historic Buildings of Downtown Detroit" title implies, the organization feels that a large number of buildings in our major urban area deserve to be restored, not just one or two. As a former history major, I can appreciate the desire of people to renovate these wonderful structures. Like all fragments of history, once they are gone, you simply cannot get them back.
I love the architecture of these old places. I love the link to the past. I love the thought of a city reborn with some of its history intact. I suspect no other major U.S. city would even allow these type of structures to fall into such a state of disrepair in the first place.
However, I also realize that the vast majority of these places have no renovation plan at all and even if they did, their owners' probably would be without the financial resources necessary to make renovation an option. (Of course, there's the notion that the owners of these buildings do have the money to renovate, but they just don't give a rodent's behind about the structures, but that's a subject for another day.)
Generally, I'm in the group of folks who believe the city is in desperate need of a bulldozing party in any numbers of parts of town. These buildings, once the heart of a thriving city, have turned into a part of the city's overall problem. They are nothing more today than part of the city's blight and safety hazards.
Only two things can turn that around- renovation or demolition. Unfortunately, renovation appears unlikely. Or, at least, unwanted by the powers-that-be.
That leaves demolition, but having watched Tiger Stadium make the transition from tourist attraction and fan favorite to neglected historical site, I'm in no mood to just randomly knock down everything in town.
The city unquestionably needs to start cleaning up, which has to include the destruction of some of these old sites, but I hope all parties are a bit more cautious before tossing history out the window. Hopefully, our old ballpark will serve as a reminder of opportunity wasted.
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
Doing My Work For Me
I was going to write about the most recent rumors surrounding Larry Brown, but I didn't have to. Rob at bleacherguy.com said everything I felt like saying. Thanks, Rob.
Then the Tigers demoted Carlos Pena and promoted Chris Shelton. That was followed by their demotion of Jason Smith and unexpected promotion of Tony Giarratano. This time Billfer at detroittigersweblog.com provided my work for me. Thanks, Billfer.
I guess everyone now knows how I got through high school.
Then the Tigers demoted Carlos Pena and promoted Chris Shelton. That was followed by their demotion of Jason Smith and unexpected promotion of Tony Giarratano. This time Billfer at detroittigersweblog.com provided my work for me. Thanks, Billfer.
I guess everyone now knows how I got through high school.
Draft Day Approaches
Less than a week until the draft that only true geeks pay attention to, the MLB Draft. The reasons why baseball's draft is far less popular are fairly obvious-high school and college players get drafted (that's a ton of kids), no one really follows baseball on the amateur level (this year had more college baseball on national tv than the previous ten years combined), draft picks are far less certain to be successful (it seems like it anyway) and the darn thing isn't even on cable television. It's a simple case of lots kids with almost no exposure in an event no one can watch. I cannot imagine why it's not popular?
As a public service, and because I am one of the aforementioned geeks, I thought I would take a peek at what my fellow baseball draftniks are saying about the Tigers would-be top choice. Well, boys and girls, the Tigers are drafting tenth in the first round. A bit lower than normal, thanks to Pudge, Guillen and the '04 Tigers, but still high enough to get an impact player. Well, in theory anyway.
Let's be honest. Very, very few teams have so utterly failed the draft process more than our beloved Tigers. I refuse to list all of their draft day disasters here, however know this. It's a long list of really bad players chosen over an extended period of time. That's how you lose 119 games in a season.
As to this year's choice, the name floating around is Wichita State pitcher Mike Pelfrey. As this may be the first or second time you have ever heard the young man's name, I figured I would do a little research for you.
A chat with Pelfrey in 2004 at The Hardball Times.
Brewerfan.net provides this profile.
A look at Pelfrey, including a Team USA photo, courtesy of Baseball Digest Daily. The site is one of those new MLBlogs.
A Baseball America review of Pelfrey's ability.
What else do you need to know? It seems Mr. Pelfrey is generally considered no worse than the second best pitcher in the draft. Many think he is the best pitcher in the draft and a top five pick. So, you are now asking yourself, how can the Tigers get Pelfrey with the tenth overall pick if he's arguably the top pitcher in the whole draft? I'm glad you asked.
Guess who the young hurler's agent is? That's right, Scott Boras. Yes, him, again. Sounds like Mr. Boras has done his usual good job of scaring the you-know-what out of the teams picking ahead of the Tigers. So, based on Boras' recent history with our Bengals, many are assuming that Pelfrey will fall all the way down to number ten.
I'm not going to ponder this much. Quite a bit can happen between now and when the Tigers get to make their first pick. Let's just consider this an introduction to a potential future Tiger. If Pelfrey ends up with the Tigers, you can impress all of the casual fans in your neighborhood with your vast knowledge about the WSU righthander.
If Pelfrey lands elsewhere on draft day, all you've done is wasted a few moments reading this. Oh, and you've learned how a baseball geek spends some of his evening-researching college players you have never heard of.
As a public service, and because I am one of the aforementioned geeks, I thought I would take a peek at what my fellow baseball draftniks are saying about the Tigers would-be top choice. Well, boys and girls, the Tigers are drafting tenth in the first round. A bit lower than normal, thanks to Pudge, Guillen and the '04 Tigers, but still high enough to get an impact player. Well, in theory anyway.
Let's be honest. Very, very few teams have so utterly failed the draft process more than our beloved Tigers. I refuse to list all of their draft day disasters here, however know this. It's a long list of really bad players chosen over an extended period of time. That's how you lose 119 games in a season.
As to this year's choice, the name floating around is Wichita State pitcher Mike Pelfrey. As this may be the first or second time you have ever heard the young man's name, I figured I would do a little research for you.
A chat with Pelfrey in 2004 at The Hardball Times.
Brewerfan.net provides this profile.
A look at Pelfrey, including a Team USA photo, courtesy of Baseball Digest Daily. The site is one of those new MLBlogs.
A Baseball America review of Pelfrey's ability.
What else do you need to know? It seems Mr. Pelfrey is generally considered no worse than the second best pitcher in the draft. Many think he is the best pitcher in the draft and a top five pick. So, you are now asking yourself, how can the Tigers get Pelfrey with the tenth overall pick if he's arguably the top pitcher in the whole draft? I'm glad you asked.
Guess who the young hurler's agent is? That's right, Scott Boras. Yes, him, again. Sounds like Mr. Boras has done his usual good job of scaring the you-know-what out of the teams picking ahead of the Tigers. So, based on Boras' recent history with our Bengals, many are assuming that Pelfrey will fall all the way down to number ten.
I'm not going to ponder this much. Quite a bit can happen between now and when the Tigers get to make their first pick. Let's just consider this an introduction to a potential future Tiger. If Pelfrey ends up with the Tigers, you can impress all of the casual fans in your neighborhood with your vast knowledge about the WSU righthander.
If Pelfrey lands elsewhere on draft day, all you've done is wasted a few moments reading this. Oh, and you've learned how a baseball geek spends some of his evening-researching college players you have never heard of.
Monday, May 30, 2005
113?
All we need to know about last night's Pistons-Heat Eastern Conference Final game was revealed in Miami's point total-113. The Pistons odds of success do not improve as an opponent, any opponent, tops the one hundred point mark against them. Dwayne Wade or Shaquille O'Neal can go off for fifty, but if the Heat only score around 85 total, the Pistons chances at being winners increases.
The Pistons are at their best when they are playing championship level defense. Last night, they didn't come close to that. Again, one look at that 113 points tells the whole story.
If you are a Pistons fan, you should be worried. The Heat have won two out of three games without Shaq at his best. Wade also had one terrible game. Yet, the Heat have the lead and homecourt advantage.
I'm thoroughly perplexed. I guess I just have never seen this Miami team as much more than the Big Guy and D-Wade. Maybe I am wrong for the billionth time. Maybe I am right and the Pistons aren't playing at a championship level. I just can't figure out where the Heat are getting points from.
Oh, I see their players scoring, but I'm baffled as to how the Pistons D cannot stop such non-descript players from contributing. They can shut down Kobe Bryant, but not Rasaul Butler? It makes no sense. Yet, it's happening.
It's nitpicking, but maybe some of the Pistons perceived weaknesses are being revealed? The lack of a true point guard. The lack of depth. The lack of a true superstar. The latter may be the one thing I think is hurting the Pistons the most right now.
Even at their best, the Pistons can go into prolonged offensive funks. A superstar doesn't allow that to happen. If the team hits a bump in the road offensively, the star steps up and carries the load. Sometimes that can be for a quarter (remember Isiah Thomas vs. the Lakers?). Sometimes it's for an entire game (refer to Wade's Game Two performance). Sometimes it's for a series (see Jordan, Michael). Stars carry clubs when they go astray.
The Pistons lack that one player. However, they have always managed to make up for that singular presence by playing tough team defense and hitting big shots. However, in two of the last three contests, the defense and big shots never arrived. It's time for those things to re-emerge or the Pistons will be heading back to South Florida well in the hole.
The Pistons are at their best when they are playing championship level defense. Last night, they didn't come close to that. Again, one look at that 113 points tells the whole story.
If you are a Pistons fan, you should be worried. The Heat have won two out of three games without Shaq at his best. Wade also had one terrible game. Yet, the Heat have the lead and homecourt advantage.
I'm thoroughly perplexed. I guess I just have never seen this Miami team as much more than the Big Guy and D-Wade. Maybe I am wrong for the billionth time. Maybe I am right and the Pistons aren't playing at a championship level. I just can't figure out where the Heat are getting points from.
Oh, I see their players scoring, but I'm baffled as to how the Pistons D cannot stop such non-descript players from contributing. They can shut down Kobe Bryant, but not Rasaul Butler? It makes no sense. Yet, it's happening.
It's nitpicking, but maybe some of the Pistons perceived weaknesses are being revealed? The lack of a true point guard. The lack of depth. The lack of a true superstar. The latter may be the one thing I think is hurting the Pistons the most right now.
Even at their best, the Pistons can go into prolonged offensive funks. A superstar doesn't allow that to happen. If the team hits a bump in the road offensively, the star steps up and carries the load. Sometimes that can be for a quarter (remember Isiah Thomas vs. the Lakers?). Sometimes it's for an entire game (refer to Wade's Game Two performance). Sometimes it's for a series (see Jordan, Michael). Stars carry clubs when they go astray.
The Pistons lack that one player. However, they have always managed to make up for that singular presence by playing tough team defense and hitting big shots. However, in two of the last three contests, the defense and big shots never arrived. It's time for those things to re-emerge or the Pistons will be heading back to South Florida well in the hole.
Two More Days
Have you been checking out the prices for All-Star Game Tickets? Well, I have. It ain't pretty. I expected to pay a premium, but over $1,000 per ticket? Sorry, but as much as I want to go, that isn't going to happen.
In light of this, I did put my name into Major League Baseball's raffle for tickets. No, the odds of winning such a lottery are not good. However, I am rather optimistic about winning. I have no specific reason for such naive thinking, I just feel like I've got a good chance.
MLB's raffle offers the "winners" an opportunity to purchase a strip of tickets. Each strip contains a ticket to the Fan Fest, All-Star Sunday (featuring the prospects game and the celebrity softball contest), Workout Day featuring the Home Run Derby and the All-Star Game itself.
There were only two ticket prices. One around $280, the other closer to $390. I'm sure the $280 version are the Uecker seats. And in Comerica Park, the Uecker seats may actually be closer to Uecker's Milwaukee than Detroit. The nearly four hundred dollar package is much closer, I'm sure. They may even be in Wayne County.
However, as my options appeared to be (not) paying $1,000 to see just the All-Star Game or (possibly) paying four hundred or less to get to go all the events, it wasn't that difficult a decision to sign-up for the raffle.
Now, if you are still reading this, you are probably wondering what about this "Two More Days" stuff? The lottery winners will be contacted Wednesday. If I win (and why wouldn't I?), I will know in two more days. Then, I have until Friday to purchase whichever ticket MLB has chosen for me.
What if the unexpected happens and I fail to win? I'll start searching for Plan B in two more days.
In light of this, I did put my name into Major League Baseball's raffle for tickets. No, the odds of winning such a lottery are not good. However, I am rather optimistic about winning. I have no specific reason for such naive thinking, I just feel like I've got a good chance.
MLB's raffle offers the "winners" an opportunity to purchase a strip of tickets. Each strip contains a ticket to the Fan Fest, All-Star Sunday (featuring the prospects game and the celebrity softball contest), Workout Day featuring the Home Run Derby and the All-Star Game itself.
There were only two ticket prices. One around $280, the other closer to $390. I'm sure the $280 version are the Uecker seats. And in Comerica Park, the Uecker seats may actually be closer to Uecker's Milwaukee than Detroit. The nearly four hundred dollar package is much closer, I'm sure. They may even be in Wayne County.
However, as my options appeared to be (not) paying $1,000 to see just the All-Star Game or (possibly) paying four hundred or less to get to go all the events, it wasn't that difficult a decision to sign-up for the raffle.
Now, if you are still reading this, you are probably wondering what about this "Two More Days" stuff? The lottery winners will be contacted Wednesday. If I win (and why wouldn't I?), I will know in two more days. Then, I have until Friday to purchase whichever ticket MLB has chosen for me.
What if the unexpected happens and I fail to win? I'll start searching for Plan B in two more days.
Michigan Gets In
The University of Michigan's baseball team received an at-large bid to the NCAA tournament today. The Wolverines had a forty win season, 41-17 to be exact, including victories over then top ten programs North Carolina and Georgia. That's usually more than good enough for any school to make the field of sixty-four.
However, Michigan's conference record was only 17-12. A fourth place regular season Big Ten finish combined with a rather early ouster from the conference tournament left coach Rich Maloney's team at the whim of the selection committee.
The strength of their non-conference record plus their late season surge probably got Michigan in. Of course, the conference leading forty-one wins didn't hurt, either. Illinois, the regular season Big Ten champs, got the slight from the selection committee, instead. Ohio State earned an automatic berth by capturing the conference tournament in Champaign.
Now, it's off to Atlanta, where the Wolverines will be in a regional with host Georgia Tech, South Carolina and Furman. The Gamecocks are Michigan's first opponent. If the Wolverines can play like they did very early in the season (when the victories over UNC and UGA occurred) or late in regular season play (where Michigan jumped from last to fourth), Michigan can win this regional.
Don't misinterpret that statement, though. Michigan is not the favorite by any means. Nor should they be. The Wolverines, however, are a very good team. They have a talented pitching staff and more than enough offense to compete. In many ways, this season has been a disappointment in my mind for Michigan.
They didn't fair well in conference play. They got bounced from the Big Ten tournament far too soon, as well. The NCAA tournament is their third chance to live up to the pre-season expectations. We will see if three is indeed a charm.
However, Michigan's conference record was only 17-12. A fourth place regular season Big Ten finish combined with a rather early ouster from the conference tournament left coach Rich Maloney's team at the whim of the selection committee.
The strength of their non-conference record plus their late season surge probably got Michigan in. Of course, the conference leading forty-one wins didn't hurt, either. Illinois, the regular season Big Ten champs, got the slight from the selection committee, instead. Ohio State earned an automatic berth by capturing the conference tournament in Champaign.
Now, it's off to Atlanta, where the Wolverines will be in a regional with host Georgia Tech, South Carolina and Furman. The Gamecocks are Michigan's first opponent. If the Wolverines can play like they did very early in the season (when the victories over UNC and UGA occurred) or late in regular season play (where Michigan jumped from last to fourth), Michigan can win this regional.
Don't misinterpret that statement, though. Michigan is not the favorite by any means. Nor should they be. The Wolverines, however, are a very good team. They have a talented pitching staff and more than enough offense to compete. In many ways, this season has been a disappointment in my mind for Michigan.
They didn't fair well in conference play. They got bounced from the Big Ten tournament far too soon, as well. The NCAA tournament is their third chance to live up to the pre-season expectations. We will see if three is indeed a charm.
Friday, May 27, 2005
My Foul Ball Story
Note: I tell this story periodically, but I don't believe I have shared it here. If I have, I apologize for being redundant. I'm getting old, so I expect that to happen more often as the years pass by.
Like nearly every baseball fan, I had always wanted to catch a foul ball. Who am I kidding? Catching one would have been great, but just tracking down one after rolling to a complete stop would have been sufficient. I had a few baseball head in my general vicinity over the years, but not one so close that I lamented a misplay on my part. However, one day my little dream came true.
Now, my foul ball story is a bit different than everyone else's. I did not make a tremendous catch. The ball I snagged had no historical significance. Not only did my retrieval not get any television coverage, it didn't even happen inside the park.
The Tigers were playing the Chicago White Sox as I recall. (Yeah, I know. When are they not playing someone in the A.L. Central?) I believe it was a Saturday afternoon. At the time, my friend, Kim, and I had the twenty game season ticket package.
On that day, Kim had to attend a wedding, so we got up and headed for the gate around the fifth or sixth inning. We left via the famous Michigan and Trumbull exit and headed west. We were discussing nothing in particular as we drew near the street named after Tiger legend Mickey Cochrane.
We were pondering when to cross Michigan Avenue when-BAM!- something drops from the sky right in front of us. The object hit the sidewalk and headed towards the heavens. This is where my instincts kicked in. See the ball, catch the ball. I looked into the sunny afternoon sky to find a baseball veering to my left. Without hesitation, I pursued the baseball.
Now, for those of you without a sense of the area, for me to starting heading to my left while walking west bound on Michigan Avenue meant I was heading onto one of the busiest streets in Detroit. This was never more true than on a Tigers game day. The visiting team always entered/exited Tiger Stadium on the Michigan Avenue side of the park. Buses, cabs, limos, city officials all zipped in and out of the parking areas near the curb. However, that never even entered my mind.
After a lifetime of chasing baseballs, I never gave a second of thought to potential danger. I did as I had always done. I went after the ball. Pavlov would have been proud. (My family not so much. They seem to worry about adults who chase baseballs into busy streets in major cities.)
Anyway, I tracked the ball and as gravity took charge, it descended right into my hands. I stood about a car length from the sidewalk. Kim was still checking for traffic on Michigan Avenue before venturing out. I was checking out my souvenir.
A Detroit police officer stood at the Cochrane/Michigan exit had told me two things. First, he had that shift for years and never came close to a ball. Second, he told me that the ball was courtesy of Cecil Fielder fouling one back out of play.
My play didn't get on SportsCenter. Ernie Harwell didn't reveal my hometown to those listening on radio. Of course, I didn't get run-over by a Detroit cabbie or the White Sox team bus, either. My loved ones are most happy about the latter of those things. Me, too.
I had never caught a Major League baseball before and have not since. While crossing off one of those little things on every baseball fan's checklist didn't occur as most would have dreamed of, I treasure the baseball just the same. I treasure the story just as much.
Like nearly every baseball fan, I had always wanted to catch a foul ball. Who am I kidding? Catching one would have been great, but just tracking down one after rolling to a complete stop would have been sufficient. I had a few baseball head in my general vicinity over the years, but not one so close that I lamented a misplay on my part. However, one day my little dream came true.
Now, my foul ball story is a bit different than everyone else's. I did not make a tremendous catch. The ball I snagged had no historical significance. Not only did my retrieval not get any television coverage, it didn't even happen inside the park.
The Tigers were playing the Chicago White Sox as I recall. (Yeah, I know. When are they not playing someone in the A.L. Central?) I believe it was a Saturday afternoon. At the time, my friend, Kim, and I had the twenty game season ticket package.
On that day, Kim had to attend a wedding, so we got up and headed for the gate around the fifth or sixth inning. We left via the famous Michigan and Trumbull exit and headed west. We were discussing nothing in particular as we drew near the street named after Tiger legend Mickey Cochrane.
We were pondering when to cross Michigan Avenue when-BAM!- something drops from the sky right in front of us. The object hit the sidewalk and headed towards the heavens. This is where my instincts kicked in. See the ball, catch the ball. I looked into the sunny afternoon sky to find a baseball veering to my left. Without hesitation, I pursued the baseball.
Now, for those of you without a sense of the area, for me to starting heading to my left while walking west bound on Michigan Avenue meant I was heading onto one of the busiest streets in Detroit. This was never more true than on a Tigers game day. The visiting team always entered/exited Tiger Stadium on the Michigan Avenue side of the park. Buses, cabs, limos, city officials all zipped in and out of the parking areas near the curb. However, that never even entered my mind.
After a lifetime of chasing baseballs, I never gave a second of thought to potential danger. I did as I had always done. I went after the ball. Pavlov would have been proud. (My family not so much. They seem to worry about adults who chase baseballs into busy streets in major cities.)
Anyway, I tracked the ball and as gravity took charge, it descended right into my hands. I stood about a car length from the sidewalk. Kim was still checking for traffic on Michigan Avenue before venturing out. I was checking out my souvenir.
A Detroit police officer stood at the Cochrane/Michigan exit had told me two things. First, he had that shift for years and never came close to a ball. Second, he told me that the ball was courtesy of Cecil Fielder fouling one back out of play.
My play didn't get on SportsCenter. Ernie Harwell didn't reveal my hometown to those listening on radio. Of course, I didn't get run-over by a Detroit cabbie or the White Sox team bus, either. My loved ones are most happy about the latter of those things. Me, too.
I had never caught a Major League baseball before and have not since. While crossing off one of those little things on every baseball fan's checklist didn't occur as most would have dreamed of, I treasure the baseball just the same. I treasure the story just as much.
Wednesday, May 25, 2005
MLB Power Rankings
Dayn Perry at Fox Sports.com offers his MLB power rankings and Dan George at SI.com does the same.
You Know It's A Big Game When.....
Liverpool beat AC Milan in the UEFA Champions League final today. This draws a collective yawn from 99% of the nation's sports fans, but it turned out to be such a classic match that ESPN actually skipped a broadcast of the World Series of Poker to re-broadcast the contest. Now, you know it had to be big-time to bump poker.
As I appear headed to become an Everton fan, thus not liking Liverpool, I'm appropriately aghast at Liverpool's triumph. I also tip my cap to the lads as Milan had them down 3-0. Liverpool tied the match in the second half and won on penalty kicks.
I'm not sure which is more surprising: That Liverpool prevailed or ESPN canned poker for the night?
As I appear headed to become an Everton fan, thus not liking Liverpool, I'm appropriately aghast at Liverpool's triumph. I also tip my cap to the lads as Milan had them down 3-0. Liverpool tied the match in the second half and won on penalty kicks.
I'm not sure which is more surprising: That Liverpool prevailed or ESPN canned poker for the night?
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
Pasquarelli Reviews NFC North
ESPN.com's Len Paquarelli discusses the off-season focus on defensive backs in the NFC North and how the teams' off-season has gone.
Sunday, May 22, 2005
A Little Preakness
Afleet Alex's spectacular triumph at The Preakness yesterday has led me to a simple conclusion. The Kentucky Derby just has too many darn horses in the field. If Afleet Alex had gotten a better trip at Churchill Downs, which translated means there were too many horses in too little an area, we might be looking at a Triple Crown winner.
The problem arises as every owner with enough cash and a horse with enough eligibility points is going to write a check to live out his/her dream to run for the roses. Never mind if their three year old has zero shot at winning. To run in the Derby allows every one that second of hope. In fact, Giacomo' stunning win will only further encourage every owner with a decent horse and a big enough checking account to participate.
The nice folks at Churchill Downs are in the racing business. It's not their job to turn down easy money. Nor is it their job to deny horse owners their shot at history. So, we get fields that are far too large, thus creating a situation far more like a rugby scrum than a horse race.
Now critics of this overly simple idea would argue that we've had a number of horses win the first two legs of the Triple Crown, the Derby and Preakness. It's the Belmont that's the deal breaker. True, but I wonder just as much about how many good, but unlucky horses, get caught up in what has become part horse race, part shoving match the first Saturday each May and never rebound, as I do about the those that have won the first two races.
You could also argue that greatness overcomes those crowded fields. Horses like Silver Charm were dominant horses, just not Triple Crown winners. I cannot argue that point. I also cannot disagree with that theory because I believe horse racing will get a legitimate Triple Crown winner when a great horse does emerge.
However, when most in the sport complain about the length of The Belmont as being the hindrance to finding a great horse, I wish someone would realize that the first race in the Triple Crown counts as much as the last.
The problem arises as every owner with enough cash and a horse with enough eligibility points is going to write a check to live out his/her dream to run for the roses. Never mind if their three year old has zero shot at winning. To run in the Derby allows every one that second of hope. In fact, Giacomo' stunning win will only further encourage every owner with a decent horse and a big enough checking account to participate.
The nice folks at Churchill Downs are in the racing business. It's not their job to turn down easy money. Nor is it their job to deny horse owners their shot at history. So, we get fields that are far too large, thus creating a situation far more like a rugby scrum than a horse race.
Now critics of this overly simple idea would argue that we've had a number of horses win the first two legs of the Triple Crown, the Derby and Preakness. It's the Belmont that's the deal breaker. True, but I wonder just as much about how many good, but unlucky horses, get caught up in what has become part horse race, part shoving match the first Saturday each May and never rebound, as I do about the those that have won the first two races.
You could also argue that greatness overcomes those crowded fields. Horses like Silver Charm were dominant horses, just not Triple Crown winners. I cannot argue that point. I also cannot disagree with that theory because I believe horse racing will get a legitimate Triple Crown winner when a great horse does emerge.
However, when most in the sport complain about the length of The Belmont as being the hindrance to finding a great horse, I wish someone would realize that the first race in the Triple Crown counts as much as the last.
No More Walton, Please
Add me to the list of people annoyed by Bill Walton. After listening to the former UCLA star in back-to-back nights, I was beginning to wonder if Walton watched the NBA regularly? It started with his "analysis" at the halftime of Game Six of the Pistons-Pacers series. Walton would have had you believe the Pistons were playing the worst basketball in the history of the league and the Pacers were only matched by Red Auerbach's Celtics.
Walton went on and on and on about just how putrid the defending champs were playing. You might start to take the Hall of Famer seriously, unless, of course, you happened to know what the score was. The Pacers were crushing the Pistons, 46-39. Maybe I am just too pro-Pistons, but since when is a seven point defecit on the road, against a rival, a team that must win to stay alive, while you are playing lousy ball such a horrible situation? Honestly, I thought the Pistons were in great shape at the half.
Now, I really just passed off Walton's in-studio analysis to over-reaction on both our parts. Bill grossly over-hyped the matter and, I presumed, I just was wearing my Pistons cap too tightly and jumped on his perspective too quickly. That was until the next night.
Walton, Mike Tirico and Steve Jones moved from the studio to announcing Game Six of the Suns-Mavericks. Walton picked up right where he left off the night before. Walton had the Suns dead and buried before halftime. Jason Terry and Josh Howard were just too much for the Suns. The Suns looked tired. They played no defense. They didn't make good decisions. Their bench wasn't helping. Nash was off his game. Blah, blah, blah.
I assumed Walton just didn't understand the Suns. They are not a deep team. They don't play D. Well, the certainly don't play much. They attempt to outscore you. Along the way, they make bad decisions. They also hoist a few shots that make you cringe. They can also drop forty points (and sometimes more) in a quarter. That's the nature of up-tempo hoops. Bill didn't know that?
I admit to rooting for Phoenix. I also admit that Dallas was playing wonderfully. However, just as an in-game sound bite from coach Mike D'Antoni indicated, the Suns figured the Mavs couldn't keep up their level of play. Walton did grab hold of that concept, but that's the problem with Walton's analysis. He grabs hold of everything.
Whatever the moment provides, Walton presumes will extend to the entire contest. Pacers go on a 12-0 spurt, it's the Pacers night. Jason Terry hits back-to-back threes and the Suns look tired tonight. However, when the Pistons come from behind to win in Indy, they played like champions. And when Nash zips past Terry to drain a game tying three, Nash appears to be on his game and the Suns are posting one of the greatest comebacks Walton has ever seen.
Even partner Steve Jones laughed about Walton's flip-flop analysis. It was particularly funny when Walton compared the Suns' Nash to Lance Armstrong early in the game. Walton said Nash may be the world's second best trained athlete behind the Tour de France champ. Then, as Nash missed a few shots later on, Walton suggested the league's MVP looked "tired". Jones quickly wondered aloud what happened to the world's second best conditioned athlete?
As the game progressed, and Nash's shots started to fall, Walton praised Nash's endurance, again. Jones jumped on that too, wondering if Nash was the Armstrong-like figure of early in the game or the tired player Walton suggested Nash had become a bit later?
This "what have you done for me lately" analysis makes Walton seem like he knows less about basketball than I do. Which simply cannot be correct. How can someone who played for John Wooden, won two NBA crowns and a league MVP award say such short-sighted things? You begin to think Bill might not watch any of his NBA League Pass package that he does commercials for.
Of course, by perpetually praising whomever is leading, Walton does cover himself in the end. But along the way, he sure sounds ridiculous.
Walton went on and on and on about just how putrid the defending champs were playing. You might start to take the Hall of Famer seriously, unless, of course, you happened to know what the score was. The Pacers were crushing the Pistons, 46-39. Maybe I am just too pro-Pistons, but since when is a seven point defecit on the road, against a rival, a team that must win to stay alive, while you are playing lousy ball such a horrible situation? Honestly, I thought the Pistons were in great shape at the half.
Now, I really just passed off Walton's in-studio analysis to over-reaction on both our parts. Bill grossly over-hyped the matter and, I presumed, I just was wearing my Pistons cap too tightly and jumped on his perspective too quickly. That was until the next night.
Walton, Mike Tirico and Steve Jones moved from the studio to announcing Game Six of the Suns-Mavericks. Walton picked up right where he left off the night before. Walton had the Suns dead and buried before halftime. Jason Terry and Josh Howard were just too much for the Suns. The Suns looked tired. They played no defense. They didn't make good decisions. Their bench wasn't helping. Nash was off his game. Blah, blah, blah.
I assumed Walton just didn't understand the Suns. They are not a deep team. They don't play D. Well, the certainly don't play much. They attempt to outscore you. Along the way, they make bad decisions. They also hoist a few shots that make you cringe. They can also drop forty points (and sometimes more) in a quarter. That's the nature of up-tempo hoops. Bill didn't know that?
I admit to rooting for Phoenix. I also admit that Dallas was playing wonderfully. However, just as an in-game sound bite from coach Mike D'Antoni indicated, the Suns figured the Mavs couldn't keep up their level of play. Walton did grab hold of that concept, but that's the problem with Walton's analysis. He grabs hold of everything.
Whatever the moment provides, Walton presumes will extend to the entire contest. Pacers go on a 12-0 spurt, it's the Pacers night. Jason Terry hits back-to-back threes and the Suns look tired tonight. However, when the Pistons come from behind to win in Indy, they played like champions. And when Nash zips past Terry to drain a game tying three, Nash appears to be on his game and the Suns are posting one of the greatest comebacks Walton has ever seen.
Even partner Steve Jones laughed about Walton's flip-flop analysis. It was particularly funny when Walton compared the Suns' Nash to Lance Armstrong early in the game. Walton said Nash may be the world's second best trained athlete behind the Tour de France champ. Then, as Nash missed a few shots later on, Walton suggested the league's MVP looked "tired". Jones quickly wondered aloud what happened to the world's second best conditioned athlete?
As the game progressed, and Nash's shots started to fall, Walton praised Nash's endurance, again. Jones jumped on that too, wondering if Nash was the Armstrong-like figure of early in the game or the tired player Walton suggested Nash had become a bit later?
This "what have you done for me lately" analysis makes Walton seem like he knows less about basketball than I do. Which simply cannot be correct. How can someone who played for John Wooden, won two NBA crowns and a league MVP award say such short-sighted things? You begin to think Bill might not watch any of his NBA League Pass package that he does commercials for.
Of course, by perpetually praising whomever is leading, Walton does cover himself in the end. But along the way, he sure sounds ridiculous.
Thursday, May 19, 2005
Below .500
What is it about playing .500 baseball that the Detroit Tigers just cannot seem to get a handle on? With this afternoon's loss to Tampa Bay, the Motown Kitties have fallen below the break even mark once again. This .500 mark has been a bugaboo since the Justin Thompson/Bobby Higginson/Tony Clark days. No matter what collection of players wear the Old English D, none of them have been able to sustain a level at or, dare I wish, above .500.
I realize the largest part of the problem is that our local team just hasn't had enough talent to maintain a mark better than .500. Which leads me to an even more troublesome question. Is this current group of Tigers closer to being a playoff contender or, I hate to say it, closer to rebuilding?
Why would I pose such an impolite inquiry? Because, well, because I am beginning to wonder. This group of Detroit baseball players isn't exactly a youth movement. Pudge Rodriguez, Rondell White, Ugueth Urbina, Troy Percival, Jason Johnson, Ramon Martinez, Vance Wilson, Doug Creek, Jamie Walker, Bobby Higginson, Dmitri Young and Magglio Ordonez are all over thirty. Carlos Guillen will be thirty in August.
Kyle Farsnworth is twenty-nine. Brandon Inge, Marcus Thames, Mike Maroth, Jason Smith, Nate Robertson, Chris Spurling, Matt Ginter and Craig Monroe are all twenty-eight. Carlos Pena is twenty-seven.
That means on the twenty-five man active roster, twenty-one Tigers are 27 years old or older. That doesn't include the three Tigers on the DL (Higgy, Maggs and Percival) that I've listed above. That's not a young team.
Sure, Jeremy Bonderman is young and appears headed in the right direction. It's too soon to guess on Nook Logan's career path and Omar Infante is just too inconsistent thus far to get a handle on. Both could join Bonderman as potential Tigers All-Stars of the future, but that's being really optimistic. It's certainly not a core to build upon. At least, not yet.
Now, the Tigers are going to lose a number of older players this off-season. At minimum, Urbina, White, Higginson, Johnson and Fernando Vina's contract will all be let go in October. That opens up some roster spots for some of the Tigers farmhands. Great. The '06 squad will be younger. However, does adding three or four rookies to the roster bring the Tigers closer to the top of the division or will it be a step back?
What if Mike Ilitch pursues another big name free agent or two? If, as I suspect they will, the Tigers do add some more high priced talent in the winter of 2005-06, then more of the kids stay on the farm and the Tigers will continue to go to battle with a slightly older roster. Can adding a new group of veterans next season propel the Tigers above .500? If so, will it be enough to contend? If not, why not go with the kids?
As you can probably tell by this rambling, I'm dazed and confused by the Tigers current situation. I'm just baffled trying to figure out where they are and where they are going. Playing below .500 for a prolonged time apparently is confusing for certain members of the fanbase.
I realize the largest part of the problem is that our local team just hasn't had enough talent to maintain a mark better than .500. Which leads me to an even more troublesome question. Is this current group of Tigers closer to being a playoff contender or, I hate to say it, closer to rebuilding?
Why would I pose such an impolite inquiry? Because, well, because I am beginning to wonder. This group of Detroit baseball players isn't exactly a youth movement. Pudge Rodriguez, Rondell White, Ugueth Urbina, Troy Percival, Jason Johnson, Ramon Martinez, Vance Wilson, Doug Creek, Jamie Walker, Bobby Higginson, Dmitri Young and Magglio Ordonez are all over thirty. Carlos Guillen will be thirty in August.
Kyle Farsnworth is twenty-nine. Brandon Inge, Marcus Thames, Mike Maroth, Jason Smith, Nate Robertson, Chris Spurling, Matt Ginter and Craig Monroe are all twenty-eight. Carlos Pena is twenty-seven.
That means on the twenty-five man active roster, twenty-one Tigers are 27 years old or older. That doesn't include the three Tigers on the DL (Higgy, Maggs and Percival) that I've listed above. That's not a young team.
Sure, Jeremy Bonderman is young and appears headed in the right direction. It's too soon to guess on Nook Logan's career path and Omar Infante is just too inconsistent thus far to get a handle on. Both could join Bonderman as potential Tigers All-Stars of the future, but that's being really optimistic. It's certainly not a core to build upon. At least, not yet.
Now, the Tigers are going to lose a number of older players this off-season. At minimum, Urbina, White, Higginson, Johnson and Fernando Vina's contract will all be let go in October. That opens up some roster spots for some of the Tigers farmhands. Great. The '06 squad will be younger. However, does adding three or four rookies to the roster bring the Tigers closer to the top of the division or will it be a step back?
What if Mike Ilitch pursues another big name free agent or two? If, as I suspect they will, the Tigers do add some more high priced talent in the winter of 2005-06, then more of the kids stay on the farm and the Tigers will continue to go to battle with a slightly older roster. Can adding a new group of veterans next season propel the Tigers above .500? If so, will it be enough to contend? If not, why not go with the kids?
As you can probably tell by this rambling, I'm dazed and confused by the Tigers current situation. I'm just baffled trying to figure out where they are and where they are going. Playing below .500 for a prolonged time apparently is confusing for certain members of the fanbase.
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
It's Coming
Here is a little something for you football fans out there. This one for the MSU and Michigan supporters, this one for the Lions fans. Those of you who support other college or professionals squads, I am confident you will be able to navigate your way around those links to find something that suits your taste.
Monday, May 16, 2005
Monday Night Moanin'
In a little tribute to former Detroit Free Press columnist Bob Talbert, I've entitled this vast array of unconnected observations after his famous "Out Of My Monday-Moanin' Mind'" columns. It also has kind of a sports ring to it with the slightly more obvious connection to Monday Night Football (and Baseball).
Not all of it will be moanin'. Most of it will be sports related, but I'll warn you that I may toss in a few non-sports topics, too. After a tip of the cap to Mr. Talbert, we're off.
Why do I get the feeling watching the U.S. Open this year will be like watching tennis on Boise State's football field? Seems the USTA thinks we cannot follow the ball very well, so they've opted to paint the courts blue. Yes, blue. This will help the ball stand out for fans and players alike. I'm having a Fox glow puck flashback.
I'm not sure why exactly, but I'm siding with Manchester United fans on this one. I just have bad vibes about Malcolm Glazer's takeover of the Premier League club.
Can anyone tell me why red peppers (and yellow and orange, for that matter) are $4.99/lb? It seems even more odd when compared to green peppers that are less than half that cost. I'm sure the answer is simple, but there does not appear to be a short supply of peppers in any color.
The review of Mitch Albom's work at the Free Press is complete. The summary of their review is equal parts explanation and Albom love fest. I'm not sure why they spent so much time discussing Albom's history at the paper and his far-reaching endeavors today?
Albom's is one of paper's drawing cards, I know that. Albom is a busy guy. I knew that, too. Albom is a talented fellow. I kind of picked up on that. However, how does any of this fit into the context of the investigation?
The final analysis of the situation comes across as Albom is a busy, productive, respected, although widely disliked by his colleagues, member of the media. If he makes a tiny error, one many at the Freep and other publications have done, we need to be understanding as long as the story is right.
Hey, I've got no problem with that theory. I just hope the Free Press hierarchy understands that their journalism can now be perceived as stories "based" on actual events. Kind of like made-for-tv-movies.
One of my co-workers has been worried about the possible Eastern Conference Final match-up between the Detroit Pistons and Miami Heat since the regular season began. My friend at the office has been lauding the Heat all season. I, conversely, dismissed the Heat all season long. If the Pistons could beat the Lakers with Shaq O'Neal and Kobe Bryant, the certainly can beat Shaq and Dwayne Wade, right?
Well, for the first time all season, I'm concerned about a Pistons-Heat meeting. If the Heat can pound on Washington without the Big Fella, that's not a good sign for Detroit basketball fans. Yeah, Indiana is better than the Wizards, but I'm starting to believe in the Heat' bench. That's not something I could say even a week ago.
Of course, the Pistons still need to find a way to dispose of the Pacers. Tell me Rick Carlisle isn't a good coach.
I knew this was a bad idea (scroll way down) right from the moment I read it. Too bad Marquette's administration doesn't have a grasp of the obvious.
Are there even two roads in the Metro Detroit area not under construction at some juncture?
Have you ever seen those construction warning signs suggesting you choose an alternate route as delays are possible on the path you have chosen? Well, I wonder how congestion free the alternate routes are going to be if everyone opts to take them instead? Wouldn't you advise us to avoid the alternates as delays are possible there, too?
In what may be the worst baseball uniforms at any level, the University ofMiami has trotted out orange tops with gray pants. I think the pants are pinstriped green, too. I can't find a great photo, but you get a small taste here. They are even worse on television. Terrible.
Bud tosses Donald under the bus, part II.
Tonight's "I Know You Don't Care" post: Ricky Ray re-joins the Edmonton Eskimos. Yes, I am happy about this. Yes, I am a geek. I thought having a blog implied that?
Yesterday, the sun came up. And Annika Sorenstam won.
That's all for tonight. Hopefully, I didn't embarass myself or the late Mr. Talbert too much. Thanks for stopping in.
Not all of it will be moanin'. Most of it will be sports related, but I'll warn you that I may toss in a few non-sports topics, too. After a tip of the cap to Mr. Talbert, we're off.
Why do I get the feeling watching the U.S. Open this year will be like watching tennis on Boise State's football field? Seems the USTA thinks we cannot follow the ball very well, so they've opted to paint the courts blue. Yes, blue. This will help the ball stand out for fans and players alike. I'm having a Fox glow puck flashback.
I'm not sure why exactly, but I'm siding with Manchester United fans on this one. I just have bad vibes about Malcolm Glazer's takeover of the Premier League club.
Can anyone tell me why red peppers (and yellow and orange, for that matter) are $4.99/lb? It seems even more odd when compared to green peppers that are less than half that cost. I'm sure the answer is simple, but there does not appear to be a short supply of peppers in any color.
The review of Mitch Albom's work at the Free Press is complete. The summary of their review is equal parts explanation and Albom love fest. I'm not sure why they spent so much time discussing Albom's history at the paper and his far-reaching endeavors today?
Albom's is one of paper's drawing cards, I know that. Albom is a busy guy. I knew that, too. Albom is a talented fellow. I kind of picked up on that. However, how does any of this fit into the context of the investigation?
The final analysis of the situation comes across as Albom is a busy, productive, respected, although widely disliked by his colleagues, member of the media. If he makes a tiny error, one many at the Freep and other publications have done, we need to be understanding as long as the story is right.
Hey, I've got no problem with that theory. I just hope the Free Press hierarchy understands that their journalism can now be perceived as stories "based" on actual events. Kind of like made-for-tv-movies.
One of my co-workers has been worried about the possible Eastern Conference Final match-up between the Detroit Pistons and Miami Heat since the regular season began. My friend at the office has been lauding the Heat all season. I, conversely, dismissed the Heat all season long. If the Pistons could beat the Lakers with Shaq O'Neal and Kobe Bryant, the certainly can beat Shaq and Dwayne Wade, right?
Well, for the first time all season, I'm concerned about a Pistons-Heat meeting. If the Heat can pound on Washington without the Big Fella, that's not a good sign for Detroit basketball fans. Yeah, Indiana is better than the Wizards, but I'm starting to believe in the Heat' bench. That's not something I could say even a week ago.
Of course, the Pistons still need to find a way to dispose of the Pacers. Tell me Rick Carlisle isn't a good coach.
I knew this was a bad idea (scroll way down) right from the moment I read it. Too bad Marquette's administration doesn't have a grasp of the obvious.
Are there even two roads in the Metro Detroit area not under construction at some juncture?
Have you ever seen those construction warning signs suggesting you choose an alternate route as delays are possible on the path you have chosen? Well, I wonder how congestion free the alternate routes are going to be if everyone opts to take them instead? Wouldn't you advise us to avoid the alternates as delays are possible there, too?
In what may be the worst baseball uniforms at any level, the University ofMiami has trotted out orange tops with gray pants. I think the pants are pinstriped green, too. I can't find a great photo, but you get a small taste here. They are even worse on television. Terrible.
Bud tosses Donald under the bus, part II.
Tonight's "I Know You Don't Care" post: Ricky Ray re-joins the Edmonton Eskimos. Yes, I am happy about this. Yes, I am a geek. I thought having a blog implied that?
Yesterday, the sun came up. And Annika Sorenstam won.
That's all for tonight. Hopefully, I didn't embarass myself or the late Mr. Talbert too much. Thanks for stopping in.
Sunday, May 15, 2005
Tigers Lose Game, Pudge & Young
Wonderful. The Tigers get hammered by the Angels, 9-3 and watch both Ivan Rodriguez and Dmitri Young leave the game with injuries. Pudge got hit on the toe by a foul-tip, while D.Y. hurt a knee running to firstbase. With Troy Percival and Magglio Ordonez already on the shelf, Carlos Guillen still needing an occasional day off to rest his ailing knee, the last thing the Tigers need is to lose Pudge and Dmitri for anything more than twenty-four hours.
It's the middle of May and I'm starting to get the feeling this edition of the Tigers isn't really much better than last year's model. I do think Jeremy Bonderman is better this year, but Nate Robertson looks worse than in '04. Guillen is about the same as last season, but Pudge is worse. Neither Percival or Magglio have been active long enough to matter. That's makes the Tigers about even to last year's club and that's exactly what they appear to be.
I hate to mention this, because I really like the guy, but I've seen enough of Carlos Pena. It's time for Alan Trammell to sit him. If Young is healthy, let him play first all the time. Yes, it will hurt some defensively, but Pena just doesn't produce enough to leave him in the lineup daily. I wish I was wrong, but my hopes for Pena are all but gone.
It's the middle of May and I'm starting to get the feeling this edition of the Tigers isn't really much better than last year's model. I do think Jeremy Bonderman is better this year, but Nate Robertson looks worse than in '04. Guillen is about the same as last season, but Pudge is worse. Neither Percival or Magglio have been active long enough to matter. That's makes the Tigers about even to last year's club and that's exactly what they appear to be.
I hate to mention this, because I really like the guy, but I've seen enough of Carlos Pena. It's time for Alan Trammell to sit him. If Young is healthy, let him play first all the time. Yes, it will hurt some defensively, but Pena just doesn't produce enough to leave him in the lineup daily. I wish I was wrong, but my hopes for Pena are all but gone.
Thursday, May 12, 2005
Hamburgers In The Detroit River?
Remember what the Colonists did to all that English tea? What will those living in Detroit do if this idea gets approved?
You Don't Care, But.....
Everton secured a spot in the Champions League next year. Very, very cool. Sometime between now and then, I'll try to capture just how amazing this season has been. I won't be able to do it justice. However, this might do.
I now return you to sports that you care much more about.
I now return you to sports that you care much more about.
Pistons Lose And The MVP Race
Okay, the Pistons lost. They beat the Pacers senseless in Game One, got up big early in Game Two and mailed the rest of the game in. It's not the end of the world. I defer to ESPN's Chris Berman for this nugget of wisdom. Once is an accident, twice is a trend, three times is a problem. Well, boys and girls, the Pacers have one win. I'm not ready to go into panic mode quite yet.
If Indiana wins Game Three, thus giving them two wins, that qualifies as a trend and then I would start to wonder. However, until Game Three is over, I still think the Pistons will advance.
There was some controversy about the NBA MVP Award. Most of it caused by Miami Herald columnist Dan LeBatard's left-handed assertion that race "may" have played a factor in Steve Nash capturing the award over Shaquille O'Neal. The easy comeback is to assume that being a homer played a part in LeBatard's opinion-where was he all the other years Shaq came up empty while in L.A.? Unfortunately, by bringing race into the matter, all LeBatard accomplished (besides getting himself more attention) was diminish Nash's remarkable season.
Nash was just as valuable to Phoenix as O'Neal was to Miami this year. Last year, the Suns couldn't even dream playoffs. This year, they are the best in the West. When Nash missed some time due to injury the Suns stumbled.
While Miami dominated the East in 2004-05, the Heat did manage to get to the playoffs last year while the Big Guy was still playing and fighting with Kobe Bryant. O'Neal elevated the Heat, but they weren't crummy without him. Phoenix, however, was terrible a year ago and is a completely different animal with Nash in the fold.
Shaq was indeed worthy of the MVP award. So was Nash. Why some just cannot accept that is puzzling.
If Indiana wins Game Three, thus giving them two wins, that qualifies as a trend and then I would start to wonder. However, until Game Three is over, I still think the Pistons will advance.
There was some controversy about the NBA MVP Award. Most of it caused by Miami Herald columnist Dan LeBatard's left-handed assertion that race "may" have played a factor in Steve Nash capturing the award over Shaquille O'Neal. The easy comeback is to assume that being a homer played a part in LeBatard's opinion-where was he all the other years Shaq came up empty while in L.A.? Unfortunately, by bringing race into the matter, all LeBatard accomplished (besides getting himself more attention) was diminish Nash's remarkable season.
Nash was just as valuable to Phoenix as O'Neal was to Miami this year. Last year, the Suns couldn't even dream playoffs. This year, they are the best in the West. When Nash missed some time due to injury the Suns stumbled.
While Miami dominated the East in 2004-05, the Heat did manage to get to the playoffs last year while the Big Guy was still playing and fighting with Kobe Bryant. O'Neal elevated the Heat, but they weren't crummy without him. Phoenix, however, was terrible a year ago and is a completely different animal with Nash in the fold.
Shaq was indeed worthy of the MVP award. So was Nash. Why some just cannot accept that is puzzling.
It's Called On The Job Training
Before the Tigers headed out for their latest road trip (and returned with a very nice 4-2 mark), Alan Trammell's managing was coming under heavy criticism around town. I, for one, have absolutely no qualms about Tram's managing. It's not great. However, I expect that. Why? Because the guy is learning on the job.
When Trammell was handed the reigns of the Tigers he had no previous managerial experience. Anywhere. I don't even think he managed Little League. While many assumed that meant Tram's hiring was strictly a public relations move, I viewed it more as an opportunity for the ex-Tiger great to easy into a role he truly desired. The pressure would be off as nearly all of us in Tigertown knew the ballclub wasn't good. We also knew that Dave Dombrowski was going to turn the team over to younger players the first chance he got.
That meant Tram could grow as his young team did and, as the theory went, he and the team would be ready to compete around the same time. A time that would still be years away. Well, something happened to blow that theory up-119 losses.
In the two years since falling to the depths of the sport, the Tigers have added veterans Rondell White, Jason Johnson, Ivan Rodriguez, Ugueth Urbina, Troy Percival, Magglio Ordonez, Vance Wilson and Kyle Farnsworth. Trammell no longer has the luxury of growing up with his young team because his team isn't all that young.
Sure, the Tigers still have youth in the form of Jeremy Bonderman, Nate Robertson, Nook Logan, Omar Infante and a few others, but the additions of highly paid veteran players have moved expectations levels up a notch or two. Or maybe three. Trammell's on-the-job training is now viewed, even by supporters, as a hindrance to the team's chances at competing for the American League Central crown.
That part about being legitimate contenders is debatable. What is not is that the Tigers short-term direction changed paths unexpectedly and it has increased the criticism of Tram's decisions. It also has many wondering if Trammell should remain as manager.
The questions are fair, although premature. It's a bit unrealistic to think Trammell is going to be a great manager this soon. Trammell is in only his third year and, unless he was some kind of managerial prodigy, he was bound to make the mistakes young managers make. It's just most of those managers make the majority of their errors in AA ball, not The Show.
Trammell may not be ready to guide the Tigers to the pennant, but it's not his fault. He's still learning his craft daily.
When Trammell was handed the reigns of the Tigers he had no previous managerial experience. Anywhere. I don't even think he managed Little League. While many assumed that meant Tram's hiring was strictly a public relations move, I viewed it more as an opportunity for the ex-Tiger great to easy into a role he truly desired. The pressure would be off as nearly all of us in Tigertown knew the ballclub wasn't good. We also knew that Dave Dombrowski was going to turn the team over to younger players the first chance he got.
That meant Tram could grow as his young team did and, as the theory went, he and the team would be ready to compete around the same time. A time that would still be years away. Well, something happened to blow that theory up-119 losses.
In the two years since falling to the depths of the sport, the Tigers have added veterans Rondell White, Jason Johnson, Ivan Rodriguez, Ugueth Urbina, Troy Percival, Magglio Ordonez, Vance Wilson and Kyle Farnsworth. Trammell no longer has the luxury of growing up with his young team because his team isn't all that young.
Sure, the Tigers still have youth in the form of Jeremy Bonderman, Nate Robertson, Nook Logan, Omar Infante and a few others, but the additions of highly paid veteran players have moved expectations levels up a notch or two. Or maybe three. Trammell's on-the-job training is now viewed, even by supporters, as a hindrance to the team's chances at competing for the American League Central crown.
That part about being legitimate contenders is debatable. What is not is that the Tigers short-term direction changed paths unexpectedly and it has increased the criticism of Tram's decisions. It also has many wondering if Trammell should remain as manager.
The questions are fair, although premature. It's a bit unrealistic to think Trammell is going to be a great manager this soon. Trammell is in only his third year and, unless he was some kind of managerial prodigy, he was bound to make the mistakes young managers make. It's just most of those managers make the majority of their errors in AA ball, not The Show.
Trammell may not be ready to guide the Tigers to the pennant, but it's not his fault. He's still learning his craft daily.
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
Midweek Meanderings
Although he is way too low on this list, the Tigers' Jeremy Bonderman gets some love from SI.com.
Repeat after me fellow Detroit Lions fans "I am so glad Cleveland took Kellen Winslow, Jr.".
A Michigan legend passes from the scene.
Bellamy Road is your Kentucky Derby favorite at this moment. If you saw the Wood Memorial, you would agree.
I want the Celtics to beat the Pacers anyway, but knowing we can all relive the brawl and it's aftermath about 10,000 more times if Indiana advances to take on the Pistons, I am really pulling for the C's.
Is it just me or does Alan Trammell just seem to rest his big names way too much?
I was happy to see him let Bonderman toss more than 100 pitches the other night. I was equally happy to see Tram vary his pattern of Kyle Farnsworth in the seventh, Ugueth Urbina in the eighth and Troy Percival in the ninth.
I don't report as much on the Pistons as I should. Frankly, I'm not sure why I don't. I think I take them for granted. They are a solid team on both ends of the floor and I just expect them to win on most nights. They usually do, too.
Bud Selig wants harsher penalties for those players using steroids and a variety of other performance enhancers. Now, it's up to the MLBPA to agree. They won't, of course. Not without stipulations. Lots of them.
I've said this before and I'll say it again. Donald Fehr and the union failed the players. By refusing to ban these substances long before they became an issue, Fehr allowed the users to take a PR hit and potentially face a life threatening issues long-term. He also made his entire membership appear guilty by association. The MLBPA proved, once and for all, that their concern is not about the players, but about their paychecks.
By the way, this is another union failure. Although, I'm not exactly buying the story.
This is not an improvement.
Liverpool appears determined to ruin Everton's Champions League spot. The Toffees had best just take care of business in the Premiership and never mind what their backyard rivals accomplish in the CL Final.
Repeat after me fellow Detroit Lions fans "I am so glad Cleveland took Kellen Winslow, Jr.".
A Michigan legend passes from the scene.
Bellamy Road is your Kentucky Derby favorite at this moment. If you saw the Wood Memorial, you would agree.
I want the Celtics to beat the Pacers anyway, but knowing we can all relive the brawl and it's aftermath about 10,000 more times if Indiana advances to take on the Pistons, I am really pulling for the C's.
Is it just me or does Alan Trammell just seem to rest his big names way too much?
I was happy to see him let Bonderman toss more than 100 pitches the other night. I was equally happy to see Tram vary his pattern of Kyle Farnsworth in the seventh, Ugueth Urbina in the eighth and Troy Percival in the ninth.
I don't report as much on the Pistons as I should. Frankly, I'm not sure why I don't. I think I take them for granted. They are a solid team on both ends of the floor and I just expect them to win on most nights. They usually do, too.
Bud Selig wants harsher penalties for those players using steroids and a variety of other performance enhancers. Now, it's up to the MLBPA to agree. They won't, of course. Not without stipulations. Lots of them.
I've said this before and I'll say it again. Donald Fehr and the union failed the players. By refusing to ban these substances long before they became an issue, Fehr allowed the users to take a PR hit and potentially face a life threatening issues long-term. He also made his entire membership appear guilty by association. The MLBPA proved, once and for all, that their concern is not about the players, but about their paychecks.
By the way, this is another union failure. Although, I'm not exactly buying the story.
This is not an improvement.
Liverpool appears determined to ruin Everton's Champions League spot. The Toffees had best just take care of business in the Premiership and never mind what their backyard rivals accomplish in the CL Final.
Sunday, May 01, 2005
Tigers Notes And Other Baseball Thoughts
After a hopeful beginning, a win on Friday night, the Tigers coughed up the last two games in Chicago and leave the Windy City below .500, again. It's darn frustrating. The Tigers just don't play very well versus division rivals. That absolutely has to change. Soon.
The Tigers bullpen scares me. All of them. What appeared to be a strength on paper, isn't in reality.
Aren't we all pleasantly surprised by Nook Logan? I don't know if his hitting can keep up at his current pace, but it would be fun if it did.
I know everyone wanted free agents pitchers this past winter, but I still look at Carl Pavano and Derek Lowe and think the Tigers would have paid too much to get them. Yeah, I know Lowe is off to a solid start, but it's a new league, a new ballpark and a different division. Let's wait and see how Lowe's record looks at season's end.
Not that I don't want the Dearborn native to do well. I hope he excels, but I couldn't see signing him to a deal that long for that kind of cash. Pitchers are just too frail and many of Lowe's numbers were in decline over the last several years.
Let me say this about the White Sox. In general, I am indifferent to Chicago's entry in the American League. No reason to really hate them. No reason to really like them, either. However, I have lost nearly all respect for White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen. Guillen's ongoing verbal pounding of Maggio Ordonez, Frank Thomas and anyone else that has drawn Guillen's ire makes the Sox skipper look very small. I have no real qualms with the Sox players, but if Guillen can't close his pie-hole, I could see myself rooting against him all of the time.
The Red Sox and what's left of their starting rotation visit Detroit Monday through Thursday. Boston is trotting out Jeremi Gonzalez tomorrow night against Jeremy Bonderman. If Pudge, DY and Carlos don't pound Gonzalez, I'm going to be disappointed. This is a chance to grab the opener from the defending champs in your own yard. You have to win. Well, you have to win if you expect to play above .500 baseball this year.
Speaking of the Red Sox, I saw their now infamous games with the Devil Rays last weekend. When Eduardo Perez hit his walk-off homer, complete with his over-the-top bat tossing celebration, I said to myself "I'd plunk him tomorrow". Sure enough, both teams upped the showboating ante over the series and the beanballs followed. Contrary to Curt Schilling's opinion, Lou Piniella wasn't the problem. Players who show-up pitchers were the problem.
I know it's old school and some would suggest out of date thinking, but if you are going to admire your handywork a bit too long, I expect a pitcher to drill you. Not in the head, as the Sox-Rays hurlers opted for, but a message should be sent.
The Red Sox-Rays series was one I watched courtesy of MLB Extra Innings. I've had the package in three of the last four years, but I think this will be the last. Why? There seems to be far less games available per week. I'm amazed at the number of games I don't get each night. Conversely, MLB.tv appears to make every game available. What is worse is that MLB.tv is much less expensive. The Extra Innings deal is about $150. The MLB.tv is $80.
The only good reason to keep Extra Innings is that I can watch the tv for hours without tying up my PC. Apparently, I need to consider hooking my old PC up prior to the 2006 season.
I'm not sure what night I it happened, but did you see Oakland's Eric Byrnes make that incredible diving catch? He left his feet and appeared to flying above the ground for quite a while before grabbing the ball and hitting the ground. It was one of the better catches we will see this year.
I've got to go back to baseball and television again. The Tigers next three games against the Red Sox will be on Fox Sports Detroit. Then, Detroit's next three games, including the first two games against the (insert your California city here) Angels, will not be seen locally. The Angels contests are both the typical 10pm EST starts. What on Earth is FSN-D showing at 10pm that is more important than the Tigers-Angels games? This lame excuse of a broadcast schedule is really annoying me.
I don't like voting for a designated hitter for the All-Star Game. I just don't.
The Tigers bullpen scares me. All of them. What appeared to be a strength on paper, isn't in reality.
Aren't we all pleasantly surprised by Nook Logan? I don't know if his hitting can keep up at his current pace, but it would be fun if it did.
I know everyone wanted free agents pitchers this past winter, but I still look at Carl Pavano and Derek Lowe and think the Tigers would have paid too much to get them. Yeah, I know Lowe is off to a solid start, but it's a new league, a new ballpark and a different division. Let's wait and see how Lowe's record looks at season's end.
Not that I don't want the Dearborn native to do well. I hope he excels, but I couldn't see signing him to a deal that long for that kind of cash. Pitchers are just too frail and many of Lowe's numbers were in decline over the last several years.
Let me say this about the White Sox. In general, I am indifferent to Chicago's entry in the American League. No reason to really hate them. No reason to really like them, either. However, I have lost nearly all respect for White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen. Guillen's ongoing verbal pounding of Maggio Ordonez, Frank Thomas and anyone else that has drawn Guillen's ire makes the Sox skipper look very small. I have no real qualms with the Sox players, but if Guillen can't close his pie-hole, I could see myself rooting against him all of the time.
The Red Sox and what's left of their starting rotation visit Detroit Monday through Thursday. Boston is trotting out Jeremi Gonzalez tomorrow night against Jeremy Bonderman. If Pudge, DY and Carlos don't pound Gonzalez, I'm going to be disappointed. This is a chance to grab the opener from the defending champs in your own yard. You have to win. Well, you have to win if you expect to play above .500 baseball this year.
Speaking of the Red Sox, I saw their now infamous games with the Devil Rays last weekend. When Eduardo Perez hit his walk-off homer, complete with his over-the-top bat tossing celebration, I said to myself "I'd plunk him tomorrow". Sure enough, both teams upped the showboating ante over the series and the beanballs followed. Contrary to Curt Schilling's opinion, Lou Piniella wasn't the problem. Players who show-up pitchers were the problem.
I know it's old school and some would suggest out of date thinking, but if you are going to admire your handywork a bit too long, I expect a pitcher to drill you. Not in the head, as the Sox-Rays hurlers opted for, but a message should be sent.
The Red Sox-Rays series was one I watched courtesy of MLB Extra Innings. I've had the package in three of the last four years, but I think this will be the last. Why? There seems to be far less games available per week. I'm amazed at the number of games I don't get each night. Conversely, MLB.tv appears to make every game available. What is worse is that MLB.tv is much less expensive. The Extra Innings deal is about $150. The MLB.tv is $80.
The only good reason to keep Extra Innings is that I can watch the tv for hours without tying up my PC. Apparently, I need to consider hooking my old PC up prior to the 2006 season.
I'm not sure what night I it happened, but did you see Oakland's Eric Byrnes make that incredible diving catch? He left his feet and appeared to flying above the ground for quite a while before grabbing the ball and hitting the ground. It was one of the better catches we will see this year.
I've got to go back to baseball and television again. The Tigers next three games against the Red Sox will be on Fox Sports Detroit. Then, Detroit's next three games, including the first two games against the (insert your California city here) Angels, will not be seen locally. The Angels contests are both the typical 10pm EST starts. What on Earth is FSN-D showing at 10pm that is more important than the Tigers-Angels games? This lame excuse of a broadcast schedule is really annoying me.
I don't like voting for a designated hitter for the All-Star Game. I just don't.
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
More On Mike
When you make one of the most surprising picks in the NFL Draft you definitely draw the media attention. The Lions' selection of Mike Williams has certainly solicited a number of comments from far and wide. Here is a sampling of commentary on the Lions first round pick and other Lions Draft Day analysis plus the mandatory link to a Joey Harrington piece.
Sports Illustrated's Peter King doesn't think Mike Williams' addition was a good move and says so here, here and here. ESPN.com's Skip Bayless loves the move. Jay Glazer, Fox Sports, wonders why so many are bashing the Lions for taking Williams. John Clayton, another ESPN employee, thinks the Williams pick is part of an overall trend.
Paul Zimmerman, Sports Illustrated's Dr. Z., gives the Lions draft a B-/C+, which is probably an accurate reflection of my feelings. John Czarnecki, Fox Sports.com, lists the Lions amongst his Draft Day losers. The Sporting News' Dan Pompei gives the Lions' draft a B+, but also offers a caution. A caution that worries me, I should point out.
Jeffri Chadiha, another SI.com writer, points out what all of us in town already knew-Joey Harrington must step up.
Sports Illustrated's Peter King doesn't think Mike Williams' addition was a good move and says so here, here and here. ESPN.com's Skip Bayless loves the move. Jay Glazer, Fox Sports, wonders why so many are bashing the Lions for taking Williams. John Clayton, another ESPN employee, thinks the Williams pick is part of an overall trend.
Paul Zimmerman, Sports Illustrated's Dr. Z., gives the Lions draft a B-/C+, which is probably an accurate reflection of my feelings. John Czarnecki, Fox Sports.com, lists the Lions amongst his Draft Day losers. The Sporting News' Dan Pompei gives the Lions' draft a B+, but also offers a caution. A caution that worries me, I should point out.
Jeffri Chadiha, another SI.com writer, points out what all of us in town already knew-Joey Harrington must step up.
Sunday, April 24, 2005
Lions Diary: Draft Review
Um. Well. Um. I'm just not sure what to say about the Detroit Lions draft. Obviously, my first thought is "Typical Lions". What other franchise picks a receiver in the first round after taking one first in each of the previous two drafts and after signing a free agent wideout about twenty-four hours before? Only the Lions. Well, maybe Arizona, but the Cardinals would have opted for some kid projected to be a sixth rounder, not a first rounder.
Regardless, of what any one of us thinks, the Lions now have Mike Williams in the fold. Would I have taken LB Derrick Johnson even with the specter of a potential star wideout unexpectedly staring me in the face? Yeah, probably, but I can't completely blame the Lions for grabbing the ex-USC star, either.
Let's face it, Charles Rogers ain't exactly the picture of health. Sure, the injuries were more freaky than indicative of Rogers' overall health, but he has basically missed two seasons. That's one more than Williams has missed. On the other side, Roy Williams came up hurt for a prolonged stretch in 2004, too. Is that a good enough reason to take a wide receiver with the tenth overall selection? Not to me, but if Williams is the star about half the scouts believe he will be, than Williams is going to make the Lions offense dynamic and force one of the other WRs out of town.
Of course, if the other half of the scouts are right, Williams will be Keyshawn Johnson's twin. That's just too dang scary for me. When Williams slid down the board, I was worried. I feared this might happen. The Lions never really seemed sold to me on Johnson or the rush ends that were available. As the Williams pick showed, that apparently was the case.
Not only was the Williams selection questionable, I don't like what the Lions did in the other two rounds Saturday. Trading away your fourth round choice to move up a lousy four spots to grab Shaun Cody, a DT from most accounts, was not something I loved. Couldn't they have waited four picks and picked a DE instead?
Cody could end up a Hall of Fame tackle. Let's hope so, but in pure draft theory, tossing out a fourth rounder to move up to take Cody wasn't worth giving up the extra choice. Their final pick, third round DB Stanley Wilson was an odd pick, too. He only started one season and didn't seem like the best player on the board.
In addition, the Lions still had not addressed their need at DE or LB. The Honolulu Blue and Silver and Black still only have two quarterbacks, as well. I guess they are hoping for more free agent arrivals this summer.
It is just a weird draft. I don't like the Lions draft in general, as they failed to address more pressing needs. I just don't think they need another WR or DT. Nor do I think they were the best players available when their were picked, although I know Mel Kiper would vehemently disagree with me about Williams vs. Johnson. Nor do I think the Lions should have given up a fourth round pick to move up four spots to take Cody. The Lions acted like they were picking as Super Bowl champs and didn't have any concerns at any positions.
In spite of all of this, I like Mike Williams and Shaun Cody. (I don't know enough about Stanley Wilson to make even a half way intelligent analysis.) They both may end up being very good players. Maybe Pro Bowlers. Obviously, we all hope so. However, I just don't like the way this draft feels or how the Lions' management handled it. Maybe my expectations were too high after last year's smashing success? Regardless, the Lions draft, sans a sixth rounder, is over. It's was interesting. It was typical Lions.
Regardless, of what any one of us thinks, the Lions now have Mike Williams in the fold. Would I have taken LB Derrick Johnson even with the specter of a potential star wideout unexpectedly staring me in the face? Yeah, probably, but I can't completely blame the Lions for grabbing the ex-USC star, either.
Let's face it, Charles Rogers ain't exactly the picture of health. Sure, the injuries were more freaky than indicative of Rogers' overall health, but he has basically missed two seasons. That's one more than Williams has missed. On the other side, Roy Williams came up hurt for a prolonged stretch in 2004, too. Is that a good enough reason to take a wide receiver with the tenth overall selection? Not to me, but if Williams is the star about half the scouts believe he will be, than Williams is going to make the Lions offense dynamic and force one of the other WRs out of town.
Of course, if the other half of the scouts are right, Williams will be Keyshawn Johnson's twin. That's just too dang scary for me. When Williams slid down the board, I was worried. I feared this might happen. The Lions never really seemed sold to me on Johnson or the rush ends that were available. As the Williams pick showed, that apparently was the case.
Not only was the Williams selection questionable, I don't like what the Lions did in the other two rounds Saturday. Trading away your fourth round choice to move up a lousy four spots to grab Shaun Cody, a DT from most accounts, was not something I loved. Couldn't they have waited four picks and picked a DE instead?
Cody could end up a Hall of Fame tackle. Let's hope so, but in pure draft theory, tossing out a fourth rounder to move up to take Cody wasn't worth giving up the extra choice. Their final pick, third round DB Stanley Wilson was an odd pick, too. He only started one season and didn't seem like the best player on the board.
In addition, the Lions still had not addressed their need at DE or LB. The Honolulu Blue and Silver and Black still only have two quarterbacks, as well. I guess they are hoping for more free agent arrivals this summer.
It is just a weird draft. I don't like the Lions draft in general, as they failed to address more pressing needs. I just don't think they need another WR or DT. Nor do I think they were the best players available when their were picked, although I know Mel Kiper would vehemently disagree with me about Williams vs. Johnson. Nor do I think the Lions should have given up a fourth round pick to move up four spots to take Cody. The Lions acted like they were picking as Super Bowl champs and didn't have any concerns at any positions.
In spite of all of this, I like Mike Williams and Shaun Cody. (I don't know enough about Stanley Wilson to make even a half way intelligent analysis.) They both may end up being very good players. Maybe Pro Bowlers. Obviously, we all hope so. However, I just don't like the way this draft feels or how the Lions' management handled it. Maybe my expectations were too high after last year's smashing success? Regardless, the Lions draft, sans a sixth rounder, is over. It's was interesting. It was typical Lions.
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
Everton 1 Manchester United 0
It's been quite a while since I've bored you with my updates on Everton football. That's English Premier League soccer for those newbies here. The team I adopted for no apparent reason last summer has had a miraculous campaign. Last night's 1-0 triumph over everyone's favorite club, Manchester United, has Evertonians thrilled.
A fourth place league finish would secure the Toffees a spot in the Champions League. Which, I realize means nothing to 99% of you, but means quite a bit to Everton fans. (Think Lions making the playoffs, but bigger.)
A tip of the cap, baseball as it may be, to the boys of Everton. Another fine effort amid this wonderful season.
A fourth place league finish would secure the Toffees a spot in the Champions League. Which, I realize means nothing to 99% of you, but means quite a bit to Everton fans. (Think Lions making the playoffs, but bigger.)
A tip of the cap, baseball as it may be, to the boys of Everton. Another fine effort amid this wonderful season.
Lions Diary: Three More Days
Just a few of quick thoughts on the upcoming NFL Draft. First, I still hope the Lions select Texas LB Derrick Johnson. There is some growing concern over him, like an inability to shed blockers, his avoiding contact, etc...., but I think that's more a product of over-analysis. Let's face it, the nine guys projected to be selected before the Lions choice, regardless of who they are, have question marks.
Johnson, if available when the Lions pick at number ten, would be the best player available. Also, with Boss Bailey's twice-injured knee, I wouldn't mind adding a linebacker of Johnson's quality as insurance. Worse case scenario you have both healthy. That's a ton of outside speed at LB.
Of course, there is a good chance Johnson may be gone by the time the Lions are on the clock. Who do I want if Johnson is playing for someone else? Well, that's not as clear. I guess I'd lean towards Georgia DE/OLB David Pollack. He does scare me more than a bit, but so do all the other names the Lions would be contemplating if Johnson is gone.
I view Pollack as more of a rush LB, not a true defensive end, which is what the Lions are really in need of. I get worried about tweeners and Pollack is a tweener. He will, however, rush the passer and I haven't heard anyone question his desire.
Two players I definitely would prefer the Lions not select: Erasmus James and Alex Barron. Both give me Aaron Gibson nightmares. James, like Gibson, is a Wisconsin product. James has a less than encouraging injury history, which will probably endear him to the Lions' brass, but leaves me wanting no part of the big guy.
Mention Barron's name and words like "soft" get whispered. A soft offensive lineman? No, thanks. Give me one of the handful of OLB/DEs first.
If the Lions end up with James or Barron at ten, that would be my draft nightmare come true. Well, to be more accurate, my draft nightmare would be for Johnson to be available at ten, then they take either James or Barron instead. I didn't even like typing that sentence. That scenario would just be unbelievably bad.
The best case scenario for me would be to see the Lions get Johnson at ten and grab the pass rusher they need with their second round choice. I'd like to see another wide receiver taken by the fourth round, as well. Another defensive back would seem necessary, too. Of course, what do I know?
Johnson, if available when the Lions pick at number ten, would be the best player available. Also, with Boss Bailey's twice-injured knee, I wouldn't mind adding a linebacker of Johnson's quality as insurance. Worse case scenario you have both healthy. That's a ton of outside speed at LB.
Of course, there is a good chance Johnson may be gone by the time the Lions are on the clock. Who do I want if Johnson is playing for someone else? Well, that's not as clear. I guess I'd lean towards Georgia DE/OLB David Pollack. He does scare me more than a bit, but so do all the other names the Lions would be contemplating if Johnson is gone.
I view Pollack as more of a rush LB, not a true defensive end, which is what the Lions are really in need of. I get worried about tweeners and Pollack is a tweener. He will, however, rush the passer and I haven't heard anyone question his desire.
Two players I definitely would prefer the Lions not select: Erasmus James and Alex Barron. Both give me Aaron Gibson nightmares. James, like Gibson, is a Wisconsin product. James has a less than encouraging injury history, which will probably endear him to the Lions' brass, but leaves me wanting no part of the big guy.
Mention Barron's name and words like "soft" get whispered. A soft offensive lineman? No, thanks. Give me one of the handful of OLB/DEs first.
If the Lions end up with James or Barron at ten, that would be my draft nightmare come true. Well, to be more accurate, my draft nightmare would be for Johnson to be available at ten, then they take either James or Barron instead. I didn't even like typing that sentence. That scenario would just be unbelievably bad.
The best case scenario for me would be to see the Lions get Johnson at ten and grab the pass rusher they need with their second round choice. I'd like to see another wide receiver taken by the fourth round, as well. Another defensive back would seem necessary, too. Of course, what do I know?
Tigers TV
Last night I settled in for an evening of Detroit Tigers baseball only to find that the game is one of the fifty-two not being televised. No problem, right? It's only one game. That's when I found out that tonight's opening game with the division leading Chicago White Sox is not on tv, either. Nor is tomorrow afternoon's contest or Friday night's tilt versus Minnesota. The Tigers don't return to FSN-Detroit until Saturday. This lack of televised baseball led me to two thoughts.
First, what a pile of crap. We don't see the final of the Tigers/Orioles series. We won't see any of the two game set against the White Sox, including tomorrow afternoon's duel between Jeremy Bonderman and Mark Buerhle. The Twins will walk into town and we are left with only radio coverage yet again. Why on Earth can't FSN-Detroit just pick up the remaining games?
Yeah, I know not everyone has cable, but it's not like those without cable will get to see a single game this year anyway. It's nonsense, especially for the Tigers' older fans who don't have cable, but I'd rather have all 162 games on cable than have fifty-two not on tv at all. The Red Wings are only available on cable. Why not let the Tigers follow suit?
Oh, before I forget, a note to Fox Sports Detroit. I know you have some aversion to showing those Thursday afternoon getaway games, but what outstanding daytime programming is going to get bumped if the Tigers are on?
"Is this really a baseball town?" was my second thought. What other supposed baseball town has fifty-two games not on any form of local tv? St. Louis? Boston? New York? Please. I doubt Tampa Bay has fifty-two games not televised. There are so many Tiger games not being televised in Detroit that I suspect a fan outside of Michigan can see more Tigers games on MLB.tv or via MLB Extra Innings than a fan inside Metro Detroit can.
I realize this may be the longest streak without television coverage this season, but that doesn't change the fact that the whole situation is ridiculous. I feel bad for the Tigers' older fans who don't have and can't afford cable, but the Tigers should have been prepared to put all 162 games on FSN-Detroit when a local broadcast deal fell through. Instead, we have nearly 1/3 of the schedule not broadcast to anyone.
First, what a pile of crap. We don't see the final of the Tigers/Orioles series. We won't see any of the two game set against the White Sox, including tomorrow afternoon's duel between Jeremy Bonderman and Mark Buerhle. The Twins will walk into town and we are left with only radio coverage yet again. Why on Earth can't FSN-Detroit just pick up the remaining games?
Yeah, I know not everyone has cable, but it's not like those without cable will get to see a single game this year anyway. It's nonsense, especially for the Tigers' older fans who don't have cable, but I'd rather have all 162 games on cable than have fifty-two not on tv at all. The Red Wings are only available on cable. Why not let the Tigers follow suit?
Oh, before I forget, a note to Fox Sports Detroit. I know you have some aversion to showing those Thursday afternoon getaway games, but what outstanding daytime programming is going to get bumped if the Tigers are on?
"Is this really a baseball town?" was my second thought. What other supposed baseball town has fifty-two games not on any form of local tv? St. Louis? Boston? New York? Please. I doubt Tampa Bay has fifty-two games not televised. There are so many Tiger games not being televised in Detroit that I suspect a fan outside of Michigan can see more Tigers games on MLB.tv or via MLB Extra Innings than a fan inside Metro Detroit can.
I realize this may be the longest streak without television coverage this season, but that doesn't change the fact that the whole situation is ridiculous. I feel bad for the Tigers' older fans who don't have and can't afford cable, but the Tigers should have been prepared to put all 162 games on FSN-Detroit when a local broadcast deal fell through. Instead, we have nearly 1/3 of the schedule not broadcast to anyone.
Tuesday, April 19, 2005
Two Local Columns
Thursday, April 14, 2005
Early Baseball Observations
I have the MLB Extra Innings package, so I see a fair amount of our national pastime. So far, these are some of the things I've taken note of.
I like the fact the Dodgers and Cubs have removed names from the back of their jerseys. It's just a more traditional, classic look. I wouldn't want every team to head in that direction, but both N.L. teams pull it off nicely.
Jamie Moyer is 2-0. Moyer is about fifty years old and his fastball is clocked with a sundial. He may be the exception to the rule, but it's nice to see someone display the art of pitching without being able to throw one hundred miles an hour.
I love listening to Vin Scully do the Dodgers games. I like the fact he refers to the teams he covers as "They" or "The Dodgers" as opposed to "Us" and "We".
Did you see Craig Biggio get hit by a Braden Looper pitch Wednesday night? I didn't see it live, but picked up coverage as he was sitting on the ground. When Biggio arose, he had about a golf ball sized lump on his arm. By the time he got to firstbase, it appeared to have doubled in size.
The next shot of him showed the bulge changing color. The end of the knot was now red. Within another minute or two, the area was turning purple. All the while, Biggio was forcing throws from Looper to keep him close. Biggio was diving back to the base each time. Each time hitting the spot again. The Astros lost, but Biggio displayed the toughness not often associated with modern baseball players. He gained even more of my respect.
Don't Biggio and Jeff Bagwell merit Hall of Fame induction?
I saw Adrian Gonzalez of Texas hit his second homerun of the year last night. The rookie appears to have a classic lefthanded swing. It's a thing of beauty. (Of course, someone already picked him up in my AL-only fantasy league. Darn baseball geeks.)
I like the fact Washington, D.C. has a baseball team. I'm not sure what I find appealing about it, but it just seems right. I also like their uniforms and love the old style caps. I may have to get the road version.
I'm not going to see Fever Pitch.
The renovation at Comerica Park looks good on tv. I'll make a final judgment once I get down there in person, but the new bullpens and new rightfield seats fit in perfectly.
I doubt youngsters today can appreciate this, but having television access to as many games as MLB Extra Innings provides would have been a dream come true for me about thirty years ago. It would also have been close to unimaginable. I'm still a bit amazed by the whole thing.
I like the fact the Dodgers and Cubs have removed names from the back of their jerseys. It's just a more traditional, classic look. I wouldn't want every team to head in that direction, but both N.L. teams pull it off nicely.
Jamie Moyer is 2-0. Moyer is about fifty years old and his fastball is clocked with a sundial. He may be the exception to the rule, but it's nice to see someone display the art of pitching without being able to throw one hundred miles an hour.
I love listening to Vin Scully do the Dodgers games. I like the fact he refers to the teams he covers as "They" or "The Dodgers" as opposed to "Us" and "We".
Did you see Craig Biggio get hit by a Braden Looper pitch Wednesday night? I didn't see it live, but picked up coverage as he was sitting on the ground. When Biggio arose, he had about a golf ball sized lump on his arm. By the time he got to firstbase, it appeared to have doubled in size.
The next shot of him showed the bulge changing color. The end of the knot was now red. Within another minute or two, the area was turning purple. All the while, Biggio was forcing throws from Looper to keep him close. Biggio was diving back to the base each time. Each time hitting the spot again. The Astros lost, but Biggio displayed the toughness not often associated with modern baseball players. He gained even more of my respect.
Don't Biggio and Jeff Bagwell merit Hall of Fame induction?
I saw Adrian Gonzalez of Texas hit his second homerun of the year last night. The rookie appears to have a classic lefthanded swing. It's a thing of beauty. (Of course, someone already picked him up in my AL-only fantasy league. Darn baseball geeks.)
I like the fact Washington, D.C. has a baseball team. I'm not sure what I find appealing about it, but it just seems right. I also like their uniforms and love the old style caps. I may have to get the road version.
I'm not going to see Fever Pitch.
The renovation at Comerica Park looks good on tv. I'll make a final judgment once I get down there in person, but the new bullpens and new rightfield seats fit in perfectly.
I doubt youngsters today can appreciate this, but having television access to as many games as MLB Extra Innings provides would have been a dream come true for me about thirty years ago. It would also have been close to unimaginable. I'm still a bit amazed by the whole thing.
Worried Yet?
Carlos Guillen's knee is acting up just a bit. Magglio Ordonez has some type of intestinal disorder and abdominal pain that won't go away. Troy Percival and Ugeuth Urbina have been, well, lousy. Omar Infante does not look like a leadoff hitter. Jason Johnson and Jeremy Bonderman have each been drilled in one of their two starts. The Twins are on the verge of sweeping the Tigers right out of Minnesota. Anyone find this discomforting?
I'm not going to panic, it's only the second week of the season. However, the array of problems the Tigers are having is taking my pre-season optimism away. Ordonez' health leads my list of concerns. Intestinal disorders can flair up at anytime. Trust me on this one. Also, the medication can take a while to adjust to and a diet change might be necessary. None of which is going to help Mags get back to his usual health quickly.
I think the other issues may resolve themselves more easily. Guillen's knee will have to be watched closely, but keeping him off of artificial turf will help. The bullpen arms should rebound. Infante will never be a classic top-of-the-order hitter, but he can hit. And, I think he will. Johnson is simply not real good and we should just get used to that.
There are positives on the ballclub, too. Bonderman had a great first outing and battled back in his second start. Carlos Pena has been a selective, productive hitter. Kyle Farnsworth has been terrific. The offense overall looks solid even on days when a Pudge Rodriguez, Guillen or Ordonez sits out. Of course, the Tigers are still in the American League Central and that helps, too.
At times, it seems like the season has been much longer than two weeks. Thankfully, the Tigers have plenty of time to get healthy both physically and in the standings.
I'm not going to panic, it's only the second week of the season. However, the array of problems the Tigers are having is taking my pre-season optimism away. Ordonez' health leads my list of concerns. Intestinal disorders can flair up at anytime. Trust me on this one. Also, the medication can take a while to adjust to and a diet change might be necessary. None of which is going to help Mags get back to his usual health quickly.
I think the other issues may resolve themselves more easily. Guillen's knee will have to be watched closely, but keeping him off of artificial turf will help. The bullpen arms should rebound. Infante will never be a classic top-of-the-order hitter, but he can hit. And, I think he will. Johnson is simply not real good and we should just get used to that.
There are positives on the ballclub, too. Bonderman had a great first outing and battled back in his second start. Carlos Pena has been a selective, productive hitter. Kyle Farnsworth has been terrific. The offense overall looks solid even on days when a Pudge Rodriguez, Guillen or Ordonez sits out. Of course, the Tigers are still in the American League Central and that helps, too.
At times, it seems like the season has been much longer than two weeks. Thankfully, the Tigers have plenty of time to get healthy both physically and in the standings.
Lions Diary: 2005 Schedule
The Detroit Lions 2005 schedule has been released. It's neither a cake-walk or overwhelming. Of course, this is the National Parity League, so I guess that's not an unexpected assessment. Like everyone else, allow me to predict the Lions record based on their shiny new schedule.
Week 1: Green Bay at Detroit
Green Bay is perceived as taking a step back. Detroit is perceived as moving slightly forward. The Lions are at home. It's got Bret Favre miracle written all over it, doesn't it? However, I will go against all common sense, a normal reaction from a Lions fan, and pick Detroit. Lions, 1-0.
Week 2: Detroit @ Chicago
The Lions ended their record road losing streak at Chicago a year ago. I suspect the Bears to be a bit annoyed by that. I also expect the Bears to a bit better team than in 2004. Bears win. Lions, 1-1.
Week 3: Bye
Already? Two weeks and they need a break? This seems ridiculous. I'm sure the majority of the week will be spent debating on whether Joey Harrington or Jeff Garcia should start next week.
Week 4: Detroit @ Tampa Bay
It seems to me that the Lions always lose in warm weather sites. I'll admit to knowing little about the Bucs, but if the Lions are truly improved this is the type of game they need to win. It's a toss-up contest, but I'll take the Honolulu Blue and Silver. Lions, 2-1.
Week 5: Baltimore @ Detroit
Geez, just what Joey was hoping for: the best D in the league visits Ford Field. If Harrington makes it through the entire game without getting benched for Garcia, it may be a sign Joey is improving. Still, I'll take the Ravens in a close, low scoring game. Lions, 2-2.
Week 6: Carolina @ Detroit
If they both wore their black uniforms would we be able to tell the teams apart? The Lions are at home and I'm not crazy about the Panthers offense. Lions win, 3-2.
Week 7: Detroit @ Cleveland
The Jeff Garcia Revenge game. However, for the Lions sake, we have to hope Harrington is still playing well enough to keep Mooch's favorite QB on the bench. I'll take the Lions, but I'm not sure why. Lions, 4-2.
Week 8: Chicago @ Detroit
I took the Bears at home. I'll take the Lions at home. Lions, 5-2.
Week 9: Detroit @ Minnesota
Yeah, Randy Moss is in California. It won't matter, Vikes prevail in a big way. Lions, 5-3.
Week 10: Arizona @ Detroit
You just know Cardinals fans are looking at this game thinking the same thing Lions fans are "The closest thing we have to an easy win". Of course, only one group of fans is going to be right. It better be us. Lions, 6-3.
Week 11: Detroit @ Dallas
I have no idea. I cannot figure out which Cowboys team to expect: the '03 or '04 model? The Tuna may have the 'Boys playing darn well by this point in the year. It's a home game for them, too. I want to take Detroit, but I'm going to say Dallas. Lions, 6-4.
Week 12: Atlanta @ Detroit (Thanksgiving Day)
The Leos walked into the South and beat the Falcons last year. I fear the reverse will happen this year. I, however, am not a big fan of this Atlanta team. That may change, but right now I'm sticking with Mariucci's squad. Lions, 7-4.
Week 13: Minnesota @ Detroit
The Lions absolutely, positively must win this game. As their history would indicate, they probably won't. I hate to think of the Vikings sweeping the Lions, but...... Lions, 7-5.
Week 14: Detroit @ Green Bay
Hard to figure where the Pack will be by this point in the season. It doesn't matter, though. I cannot expect the Lions to win in Green Bay. Lions, 7-6.
Week 15: Cincinnati @ Detroit
These are not your daddy's Bengals. Cincy could be a strong playoff team by this time. I hate to say it, but the Bengals win this toss-up game. Lions, 7-7.
Week 16: Detroit @ New Orleans
I'm not enamored with the Saints, either. I suspect the Lions can pull out this road toss-up game. Lions, 8-7.
Week 17: Detroit @ Pittsburgh
I can't imagine the Steelers playing much better than a year ago. They may also have playoff spot secured, so that helps the Lions. However, playing yet another cold weather opponent on the road this late doesn't help. Steelers win. Lions, 8-8.
Hopefully, the Lions can pull out an extra game or two beyond what I project here. I think ten wins gets them into the playoffs, nine puts them right on the edge. I'm tired of waiting for Mariucci's team to show a big improvement. This had better be the year.
Week 1: Green Bay at Detroit
Green Bay is perceived as taking a step back. Detroit is perceived as moving slightly forward. The Lions are at home. It's got Bret Favre miracle written all over it, doesn't it? However, I will go against all common sense, a normal reaction from a Lions fan, and pick Detroit. Lions, 1-0.
Week 2: Detroit @ Chicago
The Lions ended their record road losing streak at Chicago a year ago. I suspect the Bears to be a bit annoyed by that. I also expect the Bears to a bit better team than in 2004. Bears win. Lions, 1-1.
Week 3: Bye
Already? Two weeks and they need a break? This seems ridiculous. I'm sure the majority of the week will be spent debating on whether Joey Harrington or Jeff Garcia should start next week.
Week 4: Detroit @ Tampa Bay
It seems to me that the Lions always lose in warm weather sites. I'll admit to knowing little about the Bucs, but if the Lions are truly improved this is the type of game they need to win. It's a toss-up contest, but I'll take the Honolulu Blue and Silver. Lions, 2-1.
Week 5: Baltimore @ Detroit
Geez, just what Joey was hoping for: the best D in the league visits Ford Field. If Harrington makes it through the entire game without getting benched for Garcia, it may be a sign Joey is improving. Still, I'll take the Ravens in a close, low scoring game. Lions, 2-2.
Week 6: Carolina @ Detroit
If they both wore their black uniforms would we be able to tell the teams apart? The Lions are at home and I'm not crazy about the Panthers offense. Lions win, 3-2.
Week 7: Detroit @ Cleveland
The Jeff Garcia Revenge game. However, for the Lions sake, we have to hope Harrington is still playing well enough to keep Mooch's favorite QB on the bench. I'll take the Lions, but I'm not sure why. Lions, 4-2.
Week 8: Chicago @ Detroit
I took the Bears at home. I'll take the Lions at home. Lions, 5-2.
Week 9: Detroit @ Minnesota
Yeah, Randy Moss is in California. It won't matter, Vikes prevail in a big way. Lions, 5-3.
Week 10: Arizona @ Detroit
You just know Cardinals fans are looking at this game thinking the same thing Lions fans are "The closest thing we have to an easy win". Of course, only one group of fans is going to be right. It better be us. Lions, 6-3.
Week 11: Detroit @ Dallas
I have no idea. I cannot figure out which Cowboys team to expect: the '03 or '04 model? The Tuna may have the 'Boys playing darn well by this point in the year. It's a home game for them, too. I want to take Detroit, but I'm going to say Dallas. Lions, 6-4.
Week 12: Atlanta @ Detroit (Thanksgiving Day)
The Leos walked into the South and beat the Falcons last year. I fear the reverse will happen this year. I, however, am not a big fan of this Atlanta team. That may change, but right now I'm sticking with Mariucci's squad. Lions, 7-4.
Week 13: Minnesota @ Detroit
The Lions absolutely, positively must win this game. As their history would indicate, they probably won't. I hate to think of the Vikings sweeping the Lions, but...... Lions, 7-5.
Week 14: Detroit @ Green Bay
Hard to figure where the Pack will be by this point in the season. It doesn't matter, though. I cannot expect the Lions to win in Green Bay. Lions, 7-6.
Week 15: Cincinnati @ Detroit
These are not your daddy's Bengals. Cincy could be a strong playoff team by this time. I hate to say it, but the Bengals win this toss-up game. Lions, 7-7.
Week 16: Detroit @ New Orleans
I'm not enamored with the Saints, either. I suspect the Lions can pull out this road toss-up game. Lions, 8-7.
Week 17: Detroit @ Pittsburgh
I can't imagine the Steelers playing much better than a year ago. They may also have playoff spot secured, so that helps the Lions. However, playing yet another cold weather opponent on the road this late doesn't help. Steelers win. Lions, 8-8.
Hopefully, the Lions can pull out an extra game or two beyond what I project here. I think ten wins gets them into the playoffs, nine puts them right on the edge. I'm tired of waiting for Mariucci's team to show a big improvement. This had better be the year.
Tuesday, April 05, 2005
Lack Of Posts, Lame Excuses and Opening Day
I noticed that I had not posted anything here since late March. That's pretty pathetic. Now, like so many others, I could provide the usual list of lame excuses. I was busy. I had technical problems (actually, that was my other site). I was bored. I lacked creativity. The ever-popular "It's my blog and I'll type when I want to". As always, those excuses are all valid and none sufficient.
So, allow me to pull a Mark McGwire and not talk about the past. Let me start my April blogging with Opening Day. I loved it. For a change, we here in the midwest and most in the Northeast had outstanding weather. Sunny and darn near 70? In April? Perfect.
I prepared some Italian sausage with peppers and onion plus hot dogs for my guests and we settle in for a day of MLB Extra Innings. The Tigers were the main event and the hometown boys lived up to all our expectations. Jeremy Bonderman showed signs of becoming an elite pitcher. Dmitri Young went yard not once. Not twice. But three times. The Tigers rolled over Kansas City.
The Tigers will go as far as their starters take them. The Tigs have a good bullpen and a solid lineup. If their young arms can take the next step, the Tigers could be playing meaningful games in September. I'll guess about 83 wins.
As for the Royals, and the Pirates and Brewers (who were game two of our tv slate), we all felt badly for where these teams now find themselves. They appear without direction. They have fallen and cannot seem to get up. As an example, Tike Redman hit third for the Bucs. Tike Redman!?!?!
The Royals have probably fallen the farthest, now that the Tigers have rebounded some. KC was once amongst the most consistent teams in the Majors. They still are, but only they are now consistently at the bottom and not the top.
At least the Brew Crew appear to have some young players about to emerge (Carlos Lee, Lyle Overbay, Ben Sheets, J.J. Hardy) or about to make the jump to The Show (Rickie Weeks and Price Fielder, son of Cecil).
The Mets blown save on Opening Day must have some begging for Ugeuth Urbina. For now, I hope the Tigers keep him.
A Sunday night sidelight, I don't think either the Yankees or Red Sox will win the American League. I just don't trust their starting pitching. Maybe by August I will. Right now, I have faith in Randy Johnson and Curt Schilling. That's it.
We did end up watching part of the A's/O's game, too. Oakland just doesn't impress me offensively. Baltimore could surprise if they get some pitching. Like Detroit, they should be able to hit.
It's was a fine Opening Day all-in-all. Great weather. Good food. The return of baseball. What more could I want?
So, allow me to pull a Mark McGwire and not talk about the past. Let me start my April blogging with Opening Day. I loved it. For a change, we here in the midwest and most in the Northeast had outstanding weather. Sunny and darn near 70? In April? Perfect.
I prepared some Italian sausage with peppers and onion plus hot dogs for my guests and we settle in for a day of MLB Extra Innings. The Tigers were the main event and the hometown boys lived up to all our expectations. Jeremy Bonderman showed signs of becoming an elite pitcher. Dmitri Young went yard not once. Not twice. But three times. The Tigers rolled over Kansas City.
The Tigers will go as far as their starters take them. The Tigs have a good bullpen and a solid lineup. If their young arms can take the next step, the Tigers could be playing meaningful games in September. I'll guess about 83 wins.
As for the Royals, and the Pirates and Brewers (who were game two of our tv slate), we all felt badly for where these teams now find themselves. They appear without direction. They have fallen and cannot seem to get up. As an example, Tike Redman hit third for the Bucs. Tike Redman!?!?!
The Royals have probably fallen the farthest, now that the Tigers have rebounded some. KC was once amongst the most consistent teams in the Majors. They still are, but only they are now consistently at the bottom and not the top.
At least the Brew Crew appear to have some young players about to emerge (Carlos Lee, Lyle Overbay, Ben Sheets, J.J. Hardy) or about to make the jump to The Show (Rickie Weeks and Price Fielder, son of Cecil).
The Mets blown save on Opening Day must have some begging for Ugeuth Urbina. For now, I hope the Tigers keep him.
A Sunday night sidelight, I don't think either the Yankees or Red Sox will win the American League. I just don't trust their starting pitching. Maybe by August I will. Right now, I have faith in Randy Johnson and Curt Schilling. That's it.
We did end up watching part of the A's/O's game, too. Oakland just doesn't impress me offensively. Baltimore could surprise if they get some pitching. Like Detroit, they should be able to hit.
It's was a fine Opening Day all-in-all. Great weather. Good food. The return of baseball. What more could I want?
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
Vent Time
As it appeared more and more likely that Bobby Higginson's last day as a Detroit Tiger was drawing near, I was thinking of how he would be remembered here. After all, the guy has suffered with a terrible baseball team for a long time. Why should we only remember his last several years of poor production? The expectations put on him were more hope on the part of Tigers' fans and, maybe, Mike Ilitch, but were not his doing, right? Basically, I was trying to take the high road. Then along comes today's article in The Oakland Press.
Higginson, who has gone from fan favorite to poster boy of today's overpaid, underproductive, whining ballplayer, managed to live up to the latter definition in the article by Jim Hawkins. In addition to making all too clear that he doesn't "have to go where I don't want to go", Higgy said:
Higginson, who has gone from fan favorite to poster boy of today's overpaid, underproductive, whining ballplayer, managed to live up to the latter definition in the article by Jim Hawkins. In addition to making all too clear that he doesn't "have to go where I don't want to go", Higgy said:
"People don't understand, they say, 'You're making $8 million a year,' " Higginson said. "But I just want to play baseball and be treated with a little bit of respect."
I about fell out of my chair. No, Mr. Higginson, you do not just want to play baseball. If you just wanted to play baseball, you would void your no-trade clause to play elsewhere. Especially, in light of your potential imminent release from the Tigers. If you just wanted to play baseball, you would have re-negotiated your contract years ago to help the Tigers financially. Which, oh by the way, might have helped the team land you some more talented co-workers. Nope, you wanted the money and to play baseball, not just play baseball.
And the respect comment? Please. Did Higginson respect the front office when Jeff Weaver got dealt? Did he respect Juan Gonzalez, whose mere presence helped Higginson to his best year ever? Did he respect all the managers he had? Now, he wants respect?
When Hawkins suggests the Tigers, while unlikely, could designate Higginson for assignment while waiting to ship him out, the veteran Tiger outfielder said:
"If that was to happen, that would be very disappointing," said Higginson, a Tiger since 1995. "They've had plenty of time to possibly trade me. That would definitely not be the right thing to do."
This last statement may be more laughable than the first. We all know the ballclub has been trying to peddle Higgy for years. His combination of salary and diminishing production have made that impossible. He lowered those odds even further by refusing to waive his no trade clause and not taking a pay cut. Higginson now expects or thinks the team should do what he has been unwilling to do throughout the majority of his career-the right thing?
After all he has put the Tigers through in the public, why would they even consider doing the right thing by him?
So much for me taking the high road. After this article, it's safe to say I probably won't be able to remember Higginson's career quite so fondly.
Friday, March 25, 2005
Random Observations
First, a warning. As you can probably tell by now, I have changed the font. I've gone to Times New Roman. It's just a test. I have not yet made a commitment to it. As to other commitments, I haven't posted as much as I should lately as I've been busy at my other blog, Big Ten Hardball.
The college baseball season is well underway and keeping up over there is taking up quite a bit of time. Trying to keep up two blogs is tough, as I thought it would be, but I cannot find a way to incorporate that stuff over here.
That's more than enough of the "housekeeping"-type chores, let's move on to matters of sport.
Well, this is more sports related than actual sport. I had my first live fantasy baseball draft of the year last night. It's an AL only league with ten teams. I drafted fifth. Oh, by the way, I hate drafting right in the middle. I'm not sure why, but I just don't like it. As with 99% percent of my drafts, my first reaction is that my team stinks. However, my reaction generally changes after reviewing everyone else's club. Last night was no different.
A review of the other teams reveals that my twenty-three guys are not a whole lot worse than anyone else's. I ended up with Manny Ramirez, Mark Kotsay and Laynce Nix in the outfield. Aubrey Huff, Jorge Posada, Aaron Boone, Omar Infante and Bobby Crosby are my starting infielders. My DH is Justin Morneau.
My staff is Rich Harden, Jeremy Bonderman, Bronson Arroyo, Erik Bedard, Francisco Rodriguez, J.J. Putz, Tom Gordon, Alan Embree, Dewon Brazelton and another starter that I cannot recall. Needless to say, it isn't Randy Johnson.
The bench is heavy on prospects and Detroit Tigers. Nick Swisher, Grady Sizemore, Ruben Gotay, Carlos Pena and Kyle Farnsworth are all on my bench. I may have missed a bench player, as well, but you get the idea. My team is probably not the favorite to win the league, but unless all the wheels come off, I shouldn't finish in the cellar, either.
I intend to make a change or two before Opening Day, but I cannot reveal what those moves may be, as my fellow participants can all access this. I have several more drafts to go and I promise not to bore you with the results of all of those.
In my mailbox today, I got a friendly piece of spam offering me fantasy sports information for a low monthly fee. I plunk down far too much money on sports and sports related items as it is now, I hate to think just how far off the deep end I'll be if I start to pay a monthly fee for fantasy sports information.
If I was a Hall of Fame voter would I vote for Barry Bonds and Mark McGwire? It's just too early to tell. I expect more information to become available as the days and months pass.
I don't understand those who say that steroids were "legal" because MLB didn't ban them. MLB doesn't ban murder, either, but it's still illegal. If Bonds and McGwire were caught using steroids, it would have been a crime. You may not care about them using steroids, but you have to admit it's illegal no matter how you slice it.
NCAA hockey is having it's own March Madness. Complete your brackets and check out Inside College Hockey here.
That's all for now. I want to post this and see if I like the new font.
The college baseball season is well underway and keeping up over there is taking up quite a bit of time. Trying to keep up two blogs is tough, as I thought it would be, but I cannot find a way to incorporate that stuff over here.
That's more than enough of the "housekeeping"-type chores, let's move on to matters of sport.
Well, this is more sports related than actual sport. I had my first live fantasy baseball draft of the year last night. It's an AL only league with ten teams. I drafted fifth. Oh, by the way, I hate drafting right in the middle. I'm not sure why, but I just don't like it. As with 99% percent of my drafts, my first reaction is that my team stinks. However, my reaction generally changes after reviewing everyone else's club. Last night was no different.
A review of the other teams reveals that my twenty-three guys are not a whole lot worse than anyone else's. I ended up with Manny Ramirez, Mark Kotsay and Laynce Nix in the outfield. Aubrey Huff, Jorge Posada, Aaron Boone, Omar Infante and Bobby Crosby are my starting infielders. My DH is Justin Morneau.
My staff is Rich Harden, Jeremy Bonderman, Bronson Arroyo, Erik Bedard, Francisco Rodriguez, J.J. Putz, Tom Gordon, Alan Embree, Dewon Brazelton and another starter that I cannot recall. Needless to say, it isn't Randy Johnson.
The bench is heavy on prospects and Detroit Tigers. Nick Swisher, Grady Sizemore, Ruben Gotay, Carlos Pena and Kyle Farnsworth are all on my bench. I may have missed a bench player, as well, but you get the idea. My team is probably not the favorite to win the league, but unless all the wheels come off, I shouldn't finish in the cellar, either.
I intend to make a change or two before Opening Day, but I cannot reveal what those moves may be, as my fellow participants can all access this. I have several more drafts to go and I promise not to bore you with the results of all of those.
In my mailbox today, I got a friendly piece of spam offering me fantasy sports information for a low monthly fee. I plunk down far too much money on sports and sports related items as it is now, I hate to think just how far off the deep end I'll be if I start to pay a monthly fee for fantasy sports information.
If I was a Hall of Fame voter would I vote for Barry Bonds and Mark McGwire? It's just too early to tell. I expect more information to become available as the days and months pass.
I don't understand those who say that steroids were "legal" because MLB didn't ban them. MLB doesn't ban murder, either, but it's still illegal. If Bonds and McGwire were caught using steroids, it would have been a crime. You may not care about them using steroids, but you have to admit it's illegal no matter how you slice it.
NCAA hockey is having it's own March Madness. Complete your brackets and check out Inside College Hockey here.
That's all for now. I want to post this and see if I like the new font.
Lions Diary: Black Jerseys and Bubbles
The rumor has become fact. The Detroit Lions are going to wear black jerseys for two games in 2005. As I stated before, this idea is ridiculous. Why? First, because black, contrary to Matt Millen's opinion, is not one of the Lions' colors. Second, the Lions aren't some expansion club. They are one of the oldest teams in the NFL. They shouldn't even be forced into accepting an alternate jersey. If they must, then just wear the Throwback model which now seems to be standard attire on Thanksgiving.
Instead, the Lions are going to look like the Carolina Panthers. Or a USFL franchise. I realize fewer and fewer of us can remember a time when the Lions were an elite NFL franchise, but there is simply no reason to toss out a rich history because the recent past has been mediocre at best. A third (or fourth) jersey option won't make the Lions better nor does it embrace the franchise's tradition. I actually think it kind of detracts from the club's much more successful past.
While the city is somewhat divided on the black jersey, I'd guess it's about 70-30 against, it's the reaction to the Lions helmet logo that I am confounded about. It seems over 50% of Lions' fans don't like the logo we affectionately refer to as "Bubbles". The complaints range from the fact Bubbles either doesn't look much like a Lion or that he's simply not tough enough.
I'll admit the logo isn't the best rendering of the king of beasts, but it could be worse. Do you really want Millen and company selecting a new logo? If he did, I'll bet we would get a lion wearing an eye patch.
As for Bubbles not being tough enough, that's plain laughable. Is that cute little Dolphin on the side of Miami's helmet striking fear into anyone? How about that nasty Raven on Baltimore's helmet? Ugly? Without a doubt. Scary? Please. How about the lovely corporate logo for US Steel that Pittsburgh uses? Has the fear generated by the logo earned them four Super Bowl titles? Somehow, in spite of their less than intimidating logos, these three franchise have won a combined seven Super Bowls and appeared in ten NFL championship games.
Bubbles' perceived lack of toughness is hardly the reason the Lions haven't made the big game. Nor would a more ferocious lion design keep Charles Rogers in one piece or get Joey Harrington to increase his completion percentage, two things far more likely to lead to on-field success. Trust me, if the Lions became even a mini-dynasty Bubbles would be plenty tough enough for everyone.
In the end, what sells jerseys, hats and the like is winning. If the Lions win more, they will sell more merchandise. If they could go on a run like San Francisco of the 1980s, the Steelers of the 1970s, or our own Lions of the 1950s, Honolulu Blue and Silver (with or without black accented) jerseys would fly off store shelves in Detroit and around the nation. And Bubbles would be one of the most popular logos in all of sports.
Instead, the Lions are going to look like the Carolina Panthers. Or a USFL franchise. I realize fewer and fewer of us can remember a time when the Lions were an elite NFL franchise, but there is simply no reason to toss out a rich history because the recent past has been mediocre at best. A third (or fourth) jersey option won't make the Lions better nor does it embrace the franchise's tradition. I actually think it kind of detracts from the club's much more successful past.
While the city is somewhat divided on the black jersey, I'd guess it's about 70-30 against, it's the reaction to the Lions helmet logo that I am confounded about. It seems over 50% of Lions' fans don't like the logo we affectionately refer to as "Bubbles". The complaints range from the fact Bubbles either doesn't look much like a Lion or that he's simply not tough enough.
I'll admit the logo isn't the best rendering of the king of beasts, but it could be worse. Do you really want Millen and company selecting a new logo? If he did, I'll bet we would get a lion wearing an eye patch.
As for Bubbles not being tough enough, that's plain laughable. Is that cute little Dolphin on the side of Miami's helmet striking fear into anyone? How about that nasty Raven on Baltimore's helmet? Ugly? Without a doubt. Scary? Please. How about the lovely corporate logo for US Steel that Pittsburgh uses? Has the fear generated by the logo earned them four Super Bowl titles? Somehow, in spite of their less than intimidating logos, these three franchise have won a combined seven Super Bowls and appeared in ten NFL championship games.
Bubbles' perceived lack of toughness is hardly the reason the Lions haven't made the big game. Nor would a more ferocious lion design keep Charles Rogers in one piece or get Joey Harrington to increase his completion percentage, two things far more likely to lead to on-field success. Trust me, if the Lions became even a mini-dynasty Bubbles would be plenty tough enough for everyone.
In the end, what sells jerseys, hats and the like is winning. If the Lions win more, they will sell more merchandise. If they could go on a run like San Francisco of the 1980s, the Steelers of the 1970s, or our own Lions of the 1950s, Honolulu Blue and Silver (with or without black accented) jerseys would fly off store shelves in Detroit and around the nation. And Bubbles would be one of the most popular logos in all of sports.
Saturday, March 19, 2005
Alomar Retires
Roberto Alomar's retirement today deserves some mention. While his last several seasons were far below his standard, Alomar leaves the game as one of the greatest secondbasemen ever. Alomar's name can rightly be tossed around with players like Joe Morgan and Rogers Hornsby as the elite at the position.
There were few things in baseball Alomar did not do well. The Alomar I will always remember was a middle infielder who could run, throw, hit for average, hit for power and oh, how he could field. I doubt anyone has ever played secondbase with the same flair and grace.
It may be a long time before we see another secondbaseman as good as Roberto Alomar.
There were few things in baseball Alomar did not do well. The Alomar I will always remember was a middle infielder who could run, throw, hit for average, hit for power and oh, how he could field. I doubt anyone has ever played secondbase with the same flair and grace.
It may be a long time before we see another secondbaseman as good as Roberto Alomar.
Friday, March 18, 2005
Done Dancin'
We knew it was probably going to end up like this, didn't we? Oakland University got crushed by North Carolina, 96-68. It's hard not to be a tad disappointed, but it's even more difficult to not enjoy OU's first ever NCAA tournament appearance. The Dance may be over for the Golden Grizzlies, but the last week or so have been fun. Hopefully, there will be more dancing in OU's future.
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