Veteran readers of this blog will acknowledge that I rely heavily on two things: unfounded rumors and wild speculation. With that in mind, and on the verge of baseball Winter Meetings, I bring you my Detroit Tigers shopping list*. These are the players I would most like to see in an Olde English D come Opening Day.
(* This list is subject to change depending on current rumors, deals that are made and the whims of this blogger.)
1. Javier Vazquez, RHP. I've been down this road before. I think a Vazquez for Pudge Rodriguez deal makes sense. Well, it does to me anyway. Sure, Vazquez has Detroit on his no-trade list. (A good catch by Lee Panas at Tiger Tales for picking up the no-trade clause note.) That doesn't mean a trade can't happen anyway. Humor me.
2. Juan Pierre, CF. Pierre is skyrocketing up this chart. Why? Let's make a quick checklist as to the voids Pierre would fill in the Tigers' lineup. A true CF? Check. A leadoff hitter? Check. A lefthanded bat? Check. Do we need this guy? Check. Why don't I have this guy number one, again?
3. Troy Glaus, 3B. A year ago the Tigers tried to sign him as a free agent. After a fine '05 campaign, the Diamondbacks appear open to the thought of moving the former UCLA star. Why? I don't know and I don't care. He's a legit power hitter and pretty darn good defensive thirdbaseman. Yeah, yeah. He's got shortcomings. So does this blog, but you came anyway, didn't you?
4. Barry Zito, LHP. The only reason the former Cy Young Award winner isn't higher is because I simply do not believe the Tigers can offer enough to Billy Beane to land him. If they did, I'd worry that the Tigers gave up their entire farm system. I mean the entire stinking system--players, stadiums, uniforms, everything.
5. Hank Blalock, 3B. I could just be plain stupid, but don't the Tigers need a lefty power guy at Comerica Park? Yes, I know his road splits indicate he may be more a product of the ballpark he plays in, but he's still probably an offensive upgrade over Brandon Inge.
6. Matt Morris, RHP. He's higher on this list than the player at number seven for two simple reasons. I think he will be cheaper and sign a shorter term deal than the next guy on my list. It's not like he's an awful pitcher, either.
7. A.J. Burnett, RHP. The flavor du jour. Everyone with a checkbook is chasing this below .500 career hurler. He does have great stuff, though. He also underachieves and might be a clubhouse problem. Did I mention it might take $11 million or more a season to get him into an Olde English D? He's sinking on my list nearly as fast as Pierre is climbing it.
8. Aubrey Huff, OF/1B/3B. The only reason Huff isn't much higher is that this is the first winter I can recall where his name hasn't be tossed about as trade bait. As this appears to be more my fantasy than even the others, he checks in at number eight. If he's available, he would top Blalock and probably Glaus on my list. I wonder if the Rays might be convinced into pairing Dmitri Young with his brother Delmon?
9. Bobby Abreu, OF. The Phillies are denying he's available. I suspect in regards to the Tigers, that's correct. If there was even a snowball's chance, Abreu would obviously be much higher.
10. Kevin Millwood, RHP. He's only about two years older than Burnett, but seems like he's been around forever. I just don't believe he's considering Detroit, but as he's a solid starter, he stays on the list.
11. Adam Eaton, RHP. There are rumors the Padres may part with Eaton. I have my doubts, but he's got to be on the list.
12. Carl Pavano, RHP. Rumor has it the Tigers called the Yanks and wondered if Pavano could be available. The same rumor claims Pavano wants out of New York. GM Brian Cashman has been in constant denial mode since the rumor came out. Make of that what you will. I actually think Burnett has better stuff, but clearly the Tigers appear to be enamored with Pavano.
13. Lyle Overbay, 1B. Yes, another firstbaseman. He is, however, a lefthanded stick. He's also most definitely on the market. How in the world the Tigers would clear up the logjam at first, I have no idea. (Well, ok, I do have an idea, but that's not the subject matter right now.)
14. Adam Dunn, OF/1B. He's been rumored around here for about two years. I don't know if the Tigers or Reds are interested in a deal for Dunn, but, hey, old rumors die hard. He certainly would be a lefty power bat. Dunn's arrival would only further clutter the 1B/DH/OF glut at Comerica Park.
15. Jeff Weaver, RHP. Kidding. Just kidding.
16. Toby Hall, Ramon Hernandez, Brad Ausmus, C. Any of them would be my choice as catcher if Pudge were moved. I suspect the Tigers would slide Inge behind the plate, if Rodriguez went elsewhere, but I'm not crazy about that plan. Don't fear Tigertown, Ausmus won't get East of the Mississippi.
17. The remaining free agent relievers. The Tigers are going to sign a free agent closer, so I best warm up to the notion of one of them pitching the ninth for Detroit. The current thought has Dombrowski chasing Trevor Hoffman. I'm not thrilled. I see Hoffman as Troy Percival, Part II. I just can't get past the similarities--older guy, made his name on the left coast, history of arm troubles. It's just too scary. The bet here at BB is that Jose Mesa will be the guy. Again, that's just a gut feeling. I'm not bothering with facts.
18. Paul Byrd, RHP, Jarrod Washburn, LHP. Both older and not what they used to be. You could argue that the Tigers might be better off letting Justin Verlander and Joel Zumaya learn in The Show than coughing up money for either of these guys. You might be right, but the Tigers are determined to add a hurler and if everyone else is gone, I suspect they would sign one of these two.
19. Joey Gathright, OF. The Rays are outfield heavy. Rocco Baldelli is scheduled to return to centerfield in Tampa in '06, thus Gathright might come at a reasonable price. I like his offense a bit better than Nook Logan's and his speed is close to Logan's. This is bargain hunting move, but there are worse options.
20. Nomar Garciaparra, 3B. I think if he's healthy he might be able to play LF, CF or 3B. I admit to being a Nomar fan, but I'd offer him nothing more than a two year, incentive laden deal.
As to whom the Tigers might trade to get some of the above names, I don't care as long as those names do not include Jeremy Bonderman and Justin Verlander. Joel Zumaya is on the fringe of untradeable, as well. Chris Shelton is really close, too. However, anyone else is fair game. It depends on who ends up here.
As for the potential free agents, I don't mind coughing up ridiculous amounts of Mr. Ilitch's money with one provision--it had best be a short term contract or the guy better be really, really good. I don't believe anyone on the list above qualifies for the latter, so the former is my only concern.
As an example, I like Matt Morris, but not for five years under any condition. If the Tigers are determined to land Burnett, fine, but I'd rather see them pay him $12 million a season over three years than $50 million over five. That's just me.
Hopefully, the Tigers will be active over the Winter Meetings and we will have plenty more to debate and discuss.
Friday, December 02, 2005
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Tigers' Spring Schedule Is Out
In about ninety days, the Detroit Tigers will take to the field for their first Spring Training Game. It makes life a bit better just typing that. Here is the press release containing all the valuable Lakeland information.
More Mooch News
The Lions firing of Steve Mariucci certainly has created plenty for folks to write about. Here is more Mooch news than any one person should subject themselves to. If that's not enough, and it is, then check out these bonus rounds. Curt Sylvester makes a suggestion to Mr. Ford. Then there is this rather funny bit from Chris Lynch that I found via Eric McErlain of Off Wing Opinion fame. Gene Wojciechowski of ESPN.com wonders, like many others, why Matt Millen remains?
Last, but clearly not least, there is Dre Bly tossing Joey Harrington under the bus. I can't figure out which part of Bly's notion is more wrong: That Harrington is the primary reason Mariucci got whacked or that if Jeff Garcia had stayed healthy he would have solved the Lions' ills.
The problem is Bly dislikes Harrington personally. It's not surprising considering the lack of respect Mariucci consistently displayed for Harrington. His inability to commit to Harrington only fostered the environment of negativity towards the former first round pick. Bly overlooks the wideouts inability to show up for practice or perform (on any day of the week), the poor offensive line play and Garcia's own statements indicating he questions whether Detroit's management (Millen) is capable of assembling a winning team just so he can toss some smack at Harrington. Any wonder why some question Mooch's ability to control his lockeroom?
After watching, listening and reading the statements of coaches and players for a lifetime, I have come to the conclusion that many of them are no more well informed on the issues in front of them than the media they distrust or the fans they dismiss. Those directly involved do not always provide clear insight because they have their own set of built-in or built-up prejudices. They allow that bias to cloud their thought process just as they suggest the fans and media do.
Have you heard any of these ex-coaches or jocks on the talking head shows? They routinely disagree on strategy, coaching techniques and talent evaluation, to name just three topics. If neither party can agree on the basics why should the views of the media, or even us fans, on the same matters be summarily dismissed them? In fact, Bly's "Joey bashing" sounds more like the prototype angry caller to sports-talk radio than insider perspective.
Last, but clearly not least, there is Dre Bly tossing Joey Harrington under the bus. I can't figure out which part of Bly's notion is more wrong: That Harrington is the primary reason Mariucci got whacked or that if Jeff Garcia had stayed healthy he would have solved the Lions' ills.
The problem is Bly dislikes Harrington personally. It's not surprising considering the lack of respect Mariucci consistently displayed for Harrington. His inability to commit to Harrington only fostered the environment of negativity towards the former first round pick. Bly overlooks the wideouts inability to show up for practice or perform (on any day of the week), the poor offensive line play and Garcia's own statements indicating he questions whether Detroit's management (Millen) is capable of assembling a winning team just so he can toss some smack at Harrington. Any wonder why some question Mooch's ability to control his lockeroom?
After watching, listening and reading the statements of coaches and players for a lifetime, I have come to the conclusion that many of them are no more well informed on the issues in front of them than the media they distrust or the fans they dismiss. Those directly involved do not always provide clear insight because they have their own set of built-in or built-up prejudices. They allow that bias to cloud their thought process just as they suggest the fans and media do.
Have you heard any of these ex-coaches or jocks on the talking head shows? They routinely disagree on strategy, coaching techniques and talent evaluation, to name just three topics. If neither party can agree on the basics why should the views of the media, or even us fans, on the same matters be summarily dismissed them? In fact, Bly's "Joey bashing" sounds more like the prototype angry caller to sports-talk radio than insider perspective.
Monday, November 28, 2005
Euro Footballer Of The Year
Ronaldinho was named Football of the Year. I'm quite confident that 95% of my readership has either never heard of him or couldn't care less. Both are a bit unfortunate. Ronaldinho is, in a single word, dazzling.
When the majority of sports fan in the U.S. think soccer they envision slow, methodical play. I don't deny that can be the case, as it can in any sport, but those who hold that view haven't seen Barcelona's star. I got my first protracted opportunity to watch the Brazilian international just recently and I was completely amazed. He is a blur. His dribbling skills are admired by even this neophyte soccer fan. And, yes, boys and girls, he does score. Quite a bit, in fact. He is clearly the best player I've seen this year. Apparently, the European football media concur.
When the majority of sports fan in the U.S. think soccer they envision slow, methodical play. I don't deny that can be the case, as it can in any sport, but those who hold that view haven't seen Barcelona's star. I got my first protracted opportunity to watch the Brazilian international just recently and I was completely amazed. He is a blur. His dribbling skills are admired by even this neophyte soccer fan. And, yes, boys and girls, he does score. Quite a bit, in fact. He is clearly the best player I've seen this year. Apparently, the European football media concur.
In Happier Football News
The Edmonton Eskimos won the Grey Cup yesterday, 38-35. I'm an old Eskimos fan--when people mention Warren Moon, I recall his Alberta days before his NFL time. Of course, I can remember his college career at Washington, but many Michigan fans can as well.
While QB Ricky Ray was the game's MVP, I also give a tip of the cap to Jason Maas. Maas, Ray's back-up, pitched relief for Ray in the Eskimos prior two playoff contests and led Edmonton to victories. Maas, unfortunately, will probably now be dealt to Hamilton, but no Eskimo fan should pass up the opportunity to congratulate Maas. Without him, Edmonton doesn't even play for the Grey Cup.
Sunday night's championship game went into double overtime, I can honestly do without that much drama, but it made for great television. A little good news from the gridiron for this blogger was appreciated.
While QB Ricky Ray was the game's MVP, I also give a tip of the cap to Jason Maas. Maas, Ray's back-up, pitched relief for Ray in the Eskimos prior two playoff contests and led Edmonton to victories. Maas, unfortunately, will probably now be dealt to Hamilton, but no Eskimo fan should pass up the opportunity to congratulate Maas. Without him, Edmonton doesn't even play for the Grey Cup.
Sunday night's championship game went into double overtime, I can honestly do without that much drama, but it made for great television. A little good news from the gridiron for this blogger was appreciated.
Mariucci Firing
By now you've heard or read pretty much all you can handle on Steve Mariucci's dismissal today, so I am just going to provide some random thoughts in the wake of the latest Lions coaching upheaval. (In case you haven't read enough, here are Sweaty Men Endeavors, Out of Bounds and the Detroit Lions Weblog take on today's events.)
* The Lions are so pathetic they can't even fire a guy correctly. Instead of canning Mariucci on Friday morning, as they should have, they let the poor fellow swing in the breeze all weekend long. Perhaps if the story of his firing hadn't leaked out, the Lions could have taken the "wait until the season ends" approach. However, once the story got wings, they should have had the decency to fire the man instead of letting him and his family go through another three days of questions.
* I'm neither elated or depressed about Mariucci's departure. Beyond, of course, normal sympathy for someone losing their job. (That's a bit off-set by the $10 or so million dollars Mooch is going to collect to stay at home, however.) I guess I'm just a bit too negative today. I just don't see things improving unless Matt Millen accidentally stumbles across a football genius in his coaching search. Now, whether he will have the smarts to recognize, then hire the genius even if he finds him, is an entirely different matter. (For your reading pleasure, here is a list of would-be candidates for the Lions gig from John Clayton at ESPN.com.)
* Then there are the Fords. They're not going anywhere, but neither have the Lions since the Ford family took charge. That is not a coincidence. I'm becoming a believer in "the Lions will stink until the Fords are gone" theory. That's so depressing, I cannot ponder it tonight.
* Did anyone else notice the similarities between the Mariucci firing and Alan Trammell's? Both men were lauded for being fine human beings. Their ex-employers went out of their way to point out what fine men they were firing. However, in being so good natured, both were perceived by some as "too nice". That led to disciplinary issues that both seemed ill-equipped to correct.
In both situations a player also made it clear there were few or no leaders in the lockeroom/clubhouse. In the Lions case, that was Mariucci man, Jeff Garcia. In Trammell's case, Brandon Inge spoke of the lack of leadership amongst his teammates.
I just found it odd that you could have almost replaced Trammell's name for Mariucci's and had almost identical press conferences.
*Millen's not going anywhere. I suppose if the Lions tank all five remaining games there is a tiny, tiny chance he could get the boot, but I doubt that's going to do him in, either. I know his supporters generally point to his good draft selections, but do we consider Charles Rogers and Joey Harrington (number two and three overall choices) good picks? Shouldn't he have some success drafting as high as the Lions do annually?
What of his free agent moves? Love that offensive line play this year? Those are his fill-ins upfront. Dare I utter "Schroeder"? It pains anyone with an ounce of common sense and halfway decent vision to see the Bears just smush opponents week in and week out with all those household names. Seriously, outside of Brian Urlacher, how many Bears could a casual, non-fantasy league participant, name?
Forget the flashy, early picks, how many mid to late round choices have become solid starters on this team? I can have a degree of success drafting high first rounders. Assembling a team takes more than that as we witness each Sunday.
* I was flipping through the stations early this evening when I came across a program on the NFL Network entitled "In Their Own Words". The feature was Part II of the Steelers of the 1970s. That team, a childhood favorite of mine, was arguably the best team ever assembled. I watched as the Steelers won and, occasionally, lost playoff games, but generally dominated an era. I began to wonder why the Lions couldn't have half that kind of success?
I'm not talking about becoming the greatest team ever, although that would be fine, I'm just talking about a run of success that gives their fanbase something to brag about. A succession of years where the playoffs are not only expected, but almost taken for granted. If only one Super Bowl championship emerged, wouldn't that be enough? Why in the world is that so darn hard to accomplish?
* Overall, I think today's news has me more negative than positive. Not because Mariucci shouldn't have been let go, again, that should have been done Friday morning, but because I feel we are stuck in a cycle that just isn't going to end. Poor season, high draft choice, renewed optimism, poor season, high draft choice, renewed optimism, poor season, fired coach, high draft choice........ It seems like the odds of the Lions being champions are only slightly better than me winning the lottery.
Part of me, the sane part, says forget the Lions. Root for someone else. It's plain stupid to care about a team that appears doomed for failure. It's crazy to support a team that doesn't give a care about you. (Of course, buying that logic would eliminate me from rooting for any team because none of them give a hoot about me or you.) Yet I care enough to type this little rant. I guess that means I wait for the "high draft pick" part of the cycle come April.
* The Lions are so pathetic they can't even fire a guy correctly. Instead of canning Mariucci on Friday morning, as they should have, they let the poor fellow swing in the breeze all weekend long. Perhaps if the story of his firing hadn't leaked out, the Lions could have taken the "wait until the season ends" approach. However, once the story got wings, they should have had the decency to fire the man instead of letting him and his family go through another three days of questions.
* I'm neither elated or depressed about Mariucci's departure. Beyond, of course, normal sympathy for someone losing their job. (That's a bit off-set by the $10 or so million dollars Mooch is going to collect to stay at home, however.) I guess I'm just a bit too negative today. I just don't see things improving unless Matt Millen accidentally stumbles across a football genius in his coaching search. Now, whether he will have the smarts to recognize, then hire the genius even if he finds him, is an entirely different matter. (For your reading pleasure, here is a list of would-be candidates for the Lions gig from John Clayton at ESPN.com.)
* Then there are the Fords. They're not going anywhere, but neither have the Lions since the Ford family took charge. That is not a coincidence. I'm becoming a believer in "the Lions will stink until the Fords are gone" theory. That's so depressing, I cannot ponder it tonight.
* Did anyone else notice the similarities between the Mariucci firing and Alan Trammell's? Both men were lauded for being fine human beings. Their ex-employers went out of their way to point out what fine men they were firing. However, in being so good natured, both were perceived by some as "too nice". That led to disciplinary issues that both seemed ill-equipped to correct.
In both situations a player also made it clear there were few or no leaders in the lockeroom/clubhouse. In the Lions case, that was Mariucci man, Jeff Garcia. In Trammell's case, Brandon Inge spoke of the lack of leadership amongst his teammates.
I just found it odd that you could have almost replaced Trammell's name for Mariucci's and had almost identical press conferences.
*Millen's not going anywhere. I suppose if the Lions tank all five remaining games there is a tiny, tiny chance he could get the boot, but I doubt that's going to do him in, either. I know his supporters generally point to his good draft selections, but do we consider Charles Rogers and Joey Harrington (number two and three overall choices) good picks? Shouldn't he have some success drafting as high as the Lions do annually?
What of his free agent moves? Love that offensive line play this year? Those are his fill-ins upfront. Dare I utter "Schroeder"? It pains anyone with an ounce of common sense and halfway decent vision to see the Bears just smush opponents week in and week out with all those household names. Seriously, outside of Brian Urlacher, how many Bears could a casual, non-fantasy league participant, name?
Forget the flashy, early picks, how many mid to late round choices have become solid starters on this team? I can have a degree of success drafting high first rounders. Assembling a team takes more than that as we witness each Sunday.
* I was flipping through the stations early this evening when I came across a program on the NFL Network entitled "In Their Own Words". The feature was Part II of the Steelers of the 1970s. That team, a childhood favorite of mine, was arguably the best team ever assembled. I watched as the Steelers won and, occasionally, lost playoff games, but generally dominated an era. I began to wonder why the Lions couldn't have half that kind of success?
I'm not talking about becoming the greatest team ever, although that would be fine, I'm just talking about a run of success that gives their fanbase something to brag about. A succession of years where the playoffs are not only expected, but almost taken for granted. If only one Super Bowl championship emerged, wouldn't that be enough? Why in the world is that so darn hard to accomplish?
* Overall, I think today's news has me more negative than positive. Not because Mariucci shouldn't have been let go, again, that should have been done Friday morning, but because I feel we are stuck in a cycle that just isn't going to end. Poor season, high draft choice, renewed optimism, poor season, high draft choice, renewed optimism, poor season, fired coach, high draft choice........ It seems like the odds of the Lions being champions are only slightly better than me winning the lottery.
Part of me, the sane part, says forget the Lions. Root for someone else. It's plain stupid to care about a team that appears doomed for failure. It's crazy to support a team that doesn't give a care about you. (Of course, buying that logic would eliminate me from rooting for any team because none of them give a hoot about me or you.) Yet I care enough to type this little rant. I guess that means I wait for the "high draft pick" part of the cycle come April.
Sunday, November 27, 2005
Remember This Guy?
While trying to get to Real Madrid's homepage in English, I learned that there is a basketball team by the same name. Look who I found playing for them.
Friday, November 25, 2005
Thursday, November 24, 2005
Another Turkey Day Disaster
That was certainly ugly, wasn't it? After the Detroit Lions latest flop, this one on national television in front of a captive, turkey laden audience, does anyone not believe the 2005 season is over? Anybody? Didn't think so.
The final outcome doesn't really matter any more. There is no use in going over individual performances. No point in arguing play calling. Hopes for playoffs are gone. Hopes for Joey Harrington or Jeff Garcia? Adios. The 2005 season is all but finished. They just have to play out the string.
From here on out, the games themselves only matter as they may determine the fate of coach Steve Mariucci and President Matt Millen. If the Lions can maintain today's high quality of play over the remaining five games, I have little doubt that Mariucci will be let go. With only four wins in eleven attempts, I suspect a six win or less campaign might, just might, get Millen tossed out the door, too.
Now, in my more negative moments (like right now), I figure canning either or both of them won't amount to a hill of beans because this franchise is doomed. Unless the Ford family backs into a head coach or general manager that completely reinvents the organization (a la the Steelers and Chuck Noll in the 1970s), which would be the blind squirrel and nut theory in action, this team is going to keep on going at this terribly depressing pace for, well, eternity.
In my more positive spans, I figure that the Fords will have to be the squirrel eventually. The odds demand it. So, perhaps, moving Mooch and Millen elsewhere will expedite the odds of finding that oh-so-elusive nut, I mean coach.
If I was angry, I'd begin my rally to get both men dismissed right here. Frankly, I just don't have the energy. I'm tempted to blame the turkey (Did I mention I was the cook today? It went well, thanks for wondering.), but I know the bird had less to do with it than the years of watching poor, disappointing football.
Instead of dwelling on the huge pile of crap that are the 2005 Lions, I've decided to do what all diehard Lions fans do at this point in the season--look ahead to the draft.
The Lions have four wins, an amount I figured would almost secure them a top ten pick, but alas the race is tight in the Reggie Bush Sweepstakes. The Lions are one of thirteen teams with four wins or less. Forget about cheering on the Lions through the next meaningless five contests, we've got to start rooting for Arizona, St. Louis, Buffalo, Oakland and Cleveland (all with four wins heading into Sunday's games). Getting on the bandwagon for New Orleans, Tennessee, Houston, the New York Jets, Miami and San Francisco wouldn't hurt, either. (I'm not expecting too many in Motown to root for Green Bay, so I left them off the list intentionally.)
Because I am totally nuts, or a Lions fan, which may be the same thing, I've actually done a little draft research. Isn't that what all NFL fans do in November? I viewed these draft overviews with the notion that the Lions will be drafting outside the top ten, but I hold out hope they can live up (down?) to my expectations and get into the top ten or, dare I say, the top five? After the last couple of weeks, do you really think the top five is out of the question? I sure don't.
Sportnutz.com relays this list of the top 32 picks in the 2006 draft. Footballs Future.com offers their mock draft with the Honolulu Blue and Silver picking 13th. James Alder, writing for About.com, provides this very early look at the '06 draft. Mr. Alder has the Lions selecting eighth, which implies to me that he may understand all of the tiebreaking procedures. If he has factored those in, the Lions have a very good chance at a top five pick. (Yes, I know Millen will take another wide receiver, but we are thinking happy thoughts now.)
I haven't decided whom I want the Lions to select yet, but it's time to start looking at who is going to be available. After all, the Lions will be on the clock shortly.
The final outcome doesn't really matter any more. There is no use in going over individual performances. No point in arguing play calling. Hopes for playoffs are gone. Hopes for Joey Harrington or Jeff Garcia? Adios. The 2005 season is all but finished. They just have to play out the string.
From here on out, the games themselves only matter as they may determine the fate of coach Steve Mariucci and President Matt Millen. If the Lions can maintain today's high quality of play over the remaining five games, I have little doubt that Mariucci will be let go. With only four wins in eleven attempts, I suspect a six win or less campaign might, just might, get Millen tossed out the door, too.
Now, in my more negative moments (like right now), I figure canning either or both of them won't amount to a hill of beans because this franchise is doomed. Unless the Ford family backs into a head coach or general manager that completely reinvents the organization (a la the Steelers and Chuck Noll in the 1970s), which would be the blind squirrel and nut theory in action, this team is going to keep on going at this terribly depressing pace for, well, eternity.
In my more positive spans, I figure that the Fords will have to be the squirrel eventually. The odds demand it. So, perhaps, moving Mooch and Millen elsewhere will expedite the odds of finding that oh-so-elusive nut, I mean coach.
If I was angry, I'd begin my rally to get both men dismissed right here. Frankly, I just don't have the energy. I'm tempted to blame the turkey (Did I mention I was the cook today? It went well, thanks for wondering.), but I know the bird had less to do with it than the years of watching poor, disappointing football.
Instead of dwelling on the huge pile of crap that are the 2005 Lions, I've decided to do what all diehard Lions fans do at this point in the season--look ahead to the draft.
The Lions have four wins, an amount I figured would almost secure them a top ten pick, but alas the race is tight in the Reggie Bush Sweepstakes. The Lions are one of thirteen teams with four wins or less. Forget about cheering on the Lions through the next meaningless five contests, we've got to start rooting for Arizona, St. Louis, Buffalo, Oakland and Cleveland (all with four wins heading into Sunday's games). Getting on the bandwagon for New Orleans, Tennessee, Houston, the New York Jets, Miami and San Francisco wouldn't hurt, either. (I'm not expecting too many in Motown to root for Green Bay, so I left them off the list intentionally.)
Because I am totally nuts, or a Lions fan, which may be the same thing, I've actually done a little draft research. Isn't that what all NFL fans do in November? I viewed these draft overviews with the notion that the Lions will be drafting outside the top ten, but I hold out hope they can live up (down?) to my expectations and get into the top ten or, dare I say, the top five? After the last couple of weeks, do you really think the top five is out of the question? I sure don't.
Sportnutz.com relays this list of the top 32 picks in the 2006 draft. Footballs Future.com offers their mock draft with the Honolulu Blue and Silver picking 13th. James Alder, writing for About.com, provides this very early look at the '06 draft. Mr. Alder has the Lions selecting eighth, which implies to me that he may understand all of the tiebreaking procedures. If he has factored those in, the Lions have a very good chance at a top five pick. (Yes, I know Millen will take another wide receiver, but we are thinking happy thoughts now.)
I haven't decided whom I want the Lions to select yet, but it's time to start looking at who is going to be available. After all, the Lions will be on the clock shortly.
Monday, November 21, 2005
Gambling On Rogers?
There are reports that the Tigers are amongst those interested in free agent lefty Kenny Rogers. You probably remember Rogers. He's the guy that went nuts on some media types, especially those with television cameras, in Arlington last year.
That got him suspended. However, Rogers appealed the suspension providing himself with an opportunity to get an All-Star Game nod. Rogers refusal to remove himself from the American League squad cost the Tigers' Jeremy Bonderman a chance to play in his first All-Star Game and before the home crowd at Comerica Park.
Rogers, of course, was booed by the locals in attendance when he came into the Mid-Summer Classic and he promptly allowed the National League back into the contest. For closure, Rogers also had another run-in with the media during his brief appearance at the police station. That's the Kenny Rogers the Tigers are now debating.
Like every other free agent move for the Tigers the question is one of acceptable risk. At what amount is Rogers worth adding to the ballclub? I'm not sure I know where I would draw that line in the sand, but it's probably an amount Rogers wouldn't embrace.
In trolling the internet for other rumors, I find Carl Pavano is supposedly ready to bolt the Big Apple. (I'd love to provide links to these things, but they are from newspapers that require subscriptions.) The Tigers, who pursued the righthander last winter, are amongst those the New York media are speculating might be Pavano's destination.
I have trouble believing the Tigers would be willing to part with anything that might tempt King George to move Pavano. The Yanks pitching staff wasn't all that in 2005, I can't see them moving a potential upgrade on the mound.
That got him suspended. However, Rogers appealed the suspension providing himself with an opportunity to get an All-Star Game nod. Rogers refusal to remove himself from the American League squad cost the Tigers' Jeremy Bonderman a chance to play in his first All-Star Game and before the home crowd at Comerica Park.
Rogers, of course, was booed by the locals in attendance when he came into the Mid-Summer Classic and he promptly allowed the National League back into the contest. For closure, Rogers also had another run-in with the media during his brief appearance at the police station. That's the Kenny Rogers the Tigers are now debating.
Like every other free agent move for the Tigers the question is one of acceptable risk. At what amount is Rogers worth adding to the ballclub? I'm not sure I know where I would draw that line in the sand, but it's probably an amount Rogers wouldn't embrace.
In trolling the internet for other rumors, I find Carl Pavano is supposedly ready to bolt the Big Apple. (I'd love to provide links to these things, but they are from newspapers that require subscriptions.) The Tigers, who pursued the righthander last winter, are amongst those the New York media are speculating might be Pavano's destination.
I have trouble believing the Tigers would be willing to part with anything that might tempt King George to move Pavano. The Yanks pitching staff wasn't all that in 2005, I can't see them moving a potential upgrade on the mound.
Sunday, November 20, 2005
Black Saturday
Yesterday was about as bad a sports day as you can have, if you support the local teams. The Detroit Pistons got spanked in Dallas bringing their undefeated season to a close. The Red Wings dropped a 3-2 decision to St. Louis. Michigan State lost in both football to Penn State and in hoops as the highly ranked men's basketball squad lost unexpectedly to Hawaii. Too many, the harshest blow came when Michigan's football team lost to arch-rival Ohio State. The defeat ended their hopes of a co-conference championship and BCS berth.
Today, not surprisingly, the Lions were able to keep things going in the wrong direction by losing to Dallas. That is about as crummy a twenty-four hour period as I can recall in quite a while. I didn't have much luck counting on teams I like beyond our borders, as many of them found themselves on the short end of the stick. Most notably, Everton got beaten to a pulp by West Brom, 4-0. Losing to West Brom is one thing, losing by a 4-0 score is pathetic. The Toffees are squarely in relegation territory again. I wish I could find comfort in knowing that Reading looks ready to move up into their spot in the Premiership.
Yes, I know, my Golden Grizzlies did manage a victory this weekend, but it was to Notre Dame College. No, not the Notre Dame, Notre Dame College. That game might count on their record, but it really doesn't mean a great deal. My last shot at redemption comes as the Edmonton Eskimos attempt to beat the B.C. Lions and advance to the Grey Cup. Please Esks, a little help is needed here.
Today, not surprisingly, the Lions were able to keep things going in the wrong direction by losing to Dallas. That is about as crummy a twenty-four hour period as I can recall in quite a while. I didn't have much luck counting on teams I like beyond our borders, as many of them found themselves on the short end of the stick. Most notably, Everton got beaten to a pulp by West Brom, 4-0. Losing to West Brom is one thing, losing by a 4-0 score is pathetic. The Toffees are squarely in relegation territory again. I wish I could find comfort in knowing that Reading looks ready to move up into their spot in the Premiership.
Yes, I know, my Golden Grizzlies did manage a victory this weekend, but it was to Notre Dame College. No, not the Notre Dame, Notre Dame College. That game might count on their record, but it really doesn't mean a great deal. My last shot at redemption comes as the Edmonton Eskimos attempt to beat the B.C. Lions and advance to the Grey Cup. Please Esks, a little help is needed here.
Friday, November 18, 2005
Questions To Tigertown
It's Hot Stove League time and that means rumor, speculation and good old fashioned lying are more popular than ever. With the spirit of the season in mind, I've got some questions for the citizens of Tigertown (and elsewhere) to ponder.
1) A.J. Burnett is supposedly getting offered ten million a season by Toronto. Let's assume that's going to be close to the figure it takes to land him. Do you still want the Tigers to pursue him?
2) If the Tigers feel the Burnett price is too steep, which free agent pitcher do you view as Plan B?
3) According to this report by Ken Rosenthal, the Phillies might consider trading Bobby Abreu. Contrary to what Tigers' management would have us believe, I still think the addition of a quality lefthanded hitter is important. It would be difficult to find one better than Abreu.
This is a two part, kids, so pay attention. a) Should the Tigers call Pat Gillick and make a serious run at the Home Run Contest Champ or b) they simply don't have enough to trade to obtain Abreu, so why bother?
4) In the same report, Rosenthal says a number of teams are calling Florida to ask about Juan Pierre. Adding Pierre would allow Curtis Granderson to move to left and provide the Tigers with another lefthanded bat plus a leadoff hitter. Should Dave Dombrowski get in Pierre sweepstakes? If so, who are you willing to part with to get the speedy CF?
5) The oft-injured Nomar Garciaparra is available. He might come at a reasonable price and would probably be willing to play thirdbase. If the Tigers could sign Garciaparra it would allow Brandon Inge to move to the spot I think he's best at: super-utility player. A) Should the Tigers consider the former batting champion? B) If so, how much a year would you fork out to put Nomar in and Olde English D?
Bonus point question: C) For the sabermetrically inclined, is Nomar's production going to be significantly better than Inge's at this point in their respective careers? (Billfer? Lee? Brian? Anybody?)
Five questions this early in the winter is a pretty good beginning. I'm sure we will have more of these discussions as the rumors spread. Feel free to debate these issues and leave your comments. Remember, this exercise is primarily for fun. I do not have any inside information. Don't let me hear one of you call into a radio station saying you "read on the internet that the Tigers are trying to get Juan Pierre".
1) A.J. Burnett is supposedly getting offered ten million a season by Toronto. Let's assume that's going to be close to the figure it takes to land him. Do you still want the Tigers to pursue him?
2) If the Tigers feel the Burnett price is too steep, which free agent pitcher do you view as Plan B?
3) According to this report by Ken Rosenthal, the Phillies might consider trading Bobby Abreu. Contrary to what Tigers' management would have us believe, I still think the addition of a quality lefthanded hitter is important. It would be difficult to find one better than Abreu.
This is a two part, kids, so pay attention. a) Should the Tigers call Pat Gillick and make a serious run at the Home Run Contest Champ or b) they simply don't have enough to trade to obtain Abreu, so why bother?
4) In the same report, Rosenthal says a number of teams are calling Florida to ask about Juan Pierre. Adding Pierre would allow Curtis Granderson to move to left and provide the Tigers with another lefthanded bat plus a leadoff hitter. Should Dave Dombrowski get in Pierre sweepstakes? If so, who are you willing to part with to get the speedy CF?
5) The oft-injured Nomar Garciaparra is available. He might come at a reasonable price and would probably be willing to play thirdbase. If the Tigers could sign Garciaparra it would allow Brandon Inge to move to the spot I think he's best at: super-utility player. A) Should the Tigers consider the former batting champion? B) If so, how much a year would you fork out to put Nomar in and Olde English D?
Bonus point question: C) For the sabermetrically inclined, is Nomar's production going to be significantly better than Inge's at this point in their respective careers? (Billfer? Lee? Brian? Anybody?)
Five questions this early in the winter is a pretty good beginning. I'm sure we will have more of these discussions as the rumors spread. Feel free to debate these issues and leave your comments. Remember, this exercise is primarily for fun. I do not have any inside information. Don't let me hear one of you call into a radio station saying you "read on the internet that the Tigers are trying to get Juan Pierre".
Thursday, November 17, 2005
Channel Surfing
I have a new sports television addiction. It's the Fox Soccer Channel. It has become a daily destination. I often will now turn it on first. Yes, crazy soccer-loving Brian is flipping on the TV and heading straight for FSC before ESPN, Fox or anyplace else.
I have watched just about everything the network has to offer. English Premier League games? Check. French League matches? Check. EPL preview and review shows? Check. Fox Football Friday? Check. MLS playoff match? Of course. How about the U-21 UEFA contest between France and England? Check. (I hate to say it, but I enjoyed that more than the MLS title game.) Sky Sports? Yep. I'm telling you, I'm addicted. It's amazing I'm still typing and not heading for the TV. (I guess blogging is an addiction as well.)
I'm sure part of my infatuation is due, in part, to the fact that FSC is a new kid on the block for me. I had FSC added as part of something called the "Sports Pack" to my cable television upon my return from vacation. FSC is joined by Gol (another soccer network I frequent), three Fox College stations (Atlantic, Midwest and Pacific), NBA TV, The NFL Network and, yes, the Tennis Channel in this package.
Perhaps, my zeal to watch just about anything on FSC will subside once the initial thrill has passed, but for now the network gets a fair amount of my sports viewing time. Certainly, this will come to a crashing end once baseball returns.
During baseball season, I have two primary networks-Fox Sports Detroit (Tigers) and MLB Extra Innings (every other team), which I've subscribed to three of the last four years. Those stations are always first between April 1 and October 1. Even FSC will take a back seat to them.
The rest of my regular television rotation you can probably figure out all on your own--the ESPN family of networks, The Golf Channel, OLN, Speed, Comcast Local, the remaining channels in my shiny new Sports Pack, TNT, TBS, WGN and the traditional networks as they provide coverage of things I am interested in.
Yes, I do watch some other things--BBC America, The Cartoon Network, The History Channel, The Food Network and the cable news stations, although I'm avoiding news in general just to keep myself moderately sane. However, there is only so much time in a day and I have blogging to do, so my television veiwing has been limited. Lucky for you, though, I'm heading back to my tv right now. I wonder what FSC has on?
I have watched just about everything the network has to offer. English Premier League games? Check. French League matches? Check. EPL preview and review shows? Check. Fox Football Friday? Check. MLS playoff match? Of course. How about the U-21 UEFA contest between France and England? Check. (I hate to say it, but I enjoyed that more than the MLS title game.) Sky Sports? Yep. I'm telling you, I'm addicted. It's amazing I'm still typing and not heading for the TV. (I guess blogging is an addiction as well.)
I'm sure part of my infatuation is due, in part, to the fact that FSC is a new kid on the block for me. I had FSC added as part of something called the "Sports Pack" to my cable television upon my return from vacation. FSC is joined by Gol (another soccer network I frequent), three Fox College stations (Atlantic, Midwest and Pacific), NBA TV, The NFL Network and, yes, the Tennis Channel in this package.
Perhaps, my zeal to watch just about anything on FSC will subside once the initial thrill has passed, but for now the network gets a fair amount of my sports viewing time. Certainly, this will come to a crashing end once baseball returns.
During baseball season, I have two primary networks-Fox Sports Detroit (Tigers) and MLB Extra Innings (every other team), which I've subscribed to three of the last four years. Those stations are always first between April 1 and October 1. Even FSC will take a back seat to them.
The rest of my regular television rotation you can probably figure out all on your own--the ESPN family of networks, The Golf Channel, OLN, Speed, Comcast Local, the remaining channels in my shiny new Sports Pack, TNT, TBS, WGN and the traditional networks as they provide coverage of things I am interested in.
Yes, I do watch some other things--BBC America, The Cartoon Network, The History Channel, The Food Network and the cable news stations, although I'm avoiding news in general just to keep myself moderately sane. However, there is only so much time in a day and I have blogging to do, so my television veiwing has been limited. Lucky for you, though, I'm heading back to my tv right now. I wonder what FSC has on?
Monday, November 14, 2005
Bowling With Steve
Stewart Mandel of SI.com takes a stab at predicting all the bowl game match-ups. For Michigan fans, Mandel envisions an Outback Bowl appearance against South Carolina. Not a dream match-up, but I know all the Michigan fans out there would love to beat the Ol' Ball Coach, Steve Spurrier.
Another Press Conference Hangover
I have to stop listening to Steve Mariucci's Monday press conferences. They annoy me to no end. Actually, it's the coach that annoys me. Even when the Lions prevail on Sunday, I'm usually angry by midday on Monday. Not only can Mariucci not answer a question, but he comes across as clueless as where to find the answers.
My first warning sign came last year when the media asked Mooch why Kevin Jones wasn't getting the football more. Mariucci basically said they had to find ways to get him the ball more. Um, coach? Isn't play calling part of your responsibility? Wouldn't the reason Jones isn't seeing the ball more be entirely your fault? What made matters worse is that each week when the question about Jones' carries arose, Mooch always offered the same stock reply. "We need to find ways to get him the ball more". As if the situation were out of his hands. I've been annoyed since.
Couple my pre-disposition to be annoyed at the coach with a horrible record and you have a frustrated fan that is only more perplexed after each Monday meeting with the media. Today, Mooch gave me two more things that forces your head to tilt like a dog's pondering what is going on.
First, Mariucci said that if Jeff Garcia is healthy enough he starts Sunday. That and when pushed on Joey Harrington's improved play yesterday, all Mooch could muster was "I'll give him that". You'll give him that? That's darn supportive, coach. Does anyone wonder why the rest of the lockeroom has turned on the kid? The coach can barely contain his love for Garcia even when Harrington is pulling his head off the chopping block for another week.
Nobody confuses Harrington with anyone from the Manning clan, but the guy just carved up Arizona and actually threw touchdown passes. As a bonus, he threw TDs to guys wearing the same jersey. Yes, I understand Arizona is crap. So is Cleveland and the incredible Garcia led the Lions to 13 points against the Browns. Not exactly a scoring binge. If I'm not mistaken, the only TD pass Garcia completed in '05 he threw to a Bears defensive back. Yet, nothing Harrington does is good enough for this soon-to-be ex-Lions coach.
As if his continued backhanded praise of Harrington weren't enough, Mooch got quizzed again about Jones' less than impressive fourteen carries. Well, it seems our football coach likes Shawn Bryson and Artose Pinner. If you like them so much, have them date your daughter, coach. In the meantime, please let Jones run a minimum of twenty times a game.
I'm sorry, but Jones is a Pro Bowl talent. Bryson and Pinner are not nor will they ever be. That doesn't mean they can't help a football team. That doesn't mean either couldn't get 100 yards rushing in a game. What it does mean is that nearly everyone with decent vision believes Jones is potentially special.
Bryson in six NFL seasons has gained 1,986 yards rushing. Jones had 1,133 last season. Six years vs. one year. See any difference? Apparently, the coach that witnessed all 1,133 yards doesn't. Even with the ridiculously small amount of touches Jones is getting in 2005, he has more yards rushing through eight contests this year than Pinner does in three years in Detroit.
Now, I realize these stats are slanted to make my point, but that's what I am here to do. Make a point about how mind-boggling it is that Jones isn't being used like an elite back. Jones, who, oh by the way, was getting all the carries last season when Pinner and Bryson were still on the roster, deserves to get the ball more. Having Bryson and Pinner take carries away from Jones is like pinch hitting for your best hitter because you want everyone on the team to play.
That reminds me. What is all this silliness Mariucci spouts off about in regards to a guy playing "X" number of snaps? It goes something like this "Mr. Third String cornerback, who has been inactive all year, had to fill in today and played 34 snaps. He's a tough kid." Thirty-four snaps? Is this Pee Wee ball or the pros? Doesn't matter if the guy ended up like burnt toast, he got to play today! Hooray!
On top of that, he's a tough kid? You've slapped Harrington around for years in public, the guy took it, shows up every week, never bad mouths you, gets killed by the fans and run over by opposing defensive players each week (because your O-line is horrible) and the third string CB is tough for playing 34 snaps? What a load.
Is it any wonder I have to turn off the radio long before the press conference concludes? This sort of nonsense goes on each week. The media did pound Mariucci pretty good the last two weeks, but he just seem confused why he is being questioned. That only annoys me more. I really do need to stop listening.
My first warning sign came last year when the media asked Mooch why Kevin Jones wasn't getting the football more. Mariucci basically said they had to find ways to get him the ball more. Um, coach? Isn't play calling part of your responsibility? Wouldn't the reason Jones isn't seeing the ball more be entirely your fault? What made matters worse is that each week when the question about Jones' carries arose, Mooch always offered the same stock reply. "We need to find ways to get him the ball more". As if the situation were out of his hands. I've been annoyed since.
Couple my pre-disposition to be annoyed at the coach with a horrible record and you have a frustrated fan that is only more perplexed after each Monday meeting with the media. Today, Mooch gave me two more things that forces your head to tilt like a dog's pondering what is going on.
First, Mariucci said that if Jeff Garcia is healthy enough he starts Sunday. That and when pushed on Joey Harrington's improved play yesterday, all Mooch could muster was "I'll give him that". You'll give him that? That's darn supportive, coach. Does anyone wonder why the rest of the lockeroom has turned on the kid? The coach can barely contain his love for Garcia even when Harrington is pulling his head off the chopping block for another week.
Nobody confuses Harrington with anyone from the Manning clan, but the guy just carved up Arizona and actually threw touchdown passes. As a bonus, he threw TDs to guys wearing the same jersey. Yes, I understand Arizona is crap. So is Cleveland and the incredible Garcia led the Lions to 13 points against the Browns. Not exactly a scoring binge. If I'm not mistaken, the only TD pass Garcia completed in '05 he threw to a Bears defensive back. Yet, nothing Harrington does is good enough for this soon-to-be ex-Lions coach.
As if his continued backhanded praise of Harrington weren't enough, Mooch got quizzed again about Jones' less than impressive fourteen carries. Well, it seems our football coach likes Shawn Bryson and Artose Pinner. If you like them so much, have them date your daughter, coach. In the meantime, please let Jones run a minimum of twenty times a game.
I'm sorry, but Jones is a Pro Bowl talent. Bryson and Pinner are not nor will they ever be. That doesn't mean they can't help a football team. That doesn't mean either couldn't get 100 yards rushing in a game. What it does mean is that nearly everyone with decent vision believes Jones is potentially special.
Bryson in six NFL seasons has gained 1,986 yards rushing. Jones had 1,133 last season. Six years vs. one year. See any difference? Apparently, the coach that witnessed all 1,133 yards doesn't. Even with the ridiculously small amount of touches Jones is getting in 2005, he has more yards rushing through eight contests this year than Pinner does in three years in Detroit.
Now, I realize these stats are slanted to make my point, but that's what I am here to do. Make a point about how mind-boggling it is that Jones isn't being used like an elite back. Jones, who, oh by the way, was getting all the carries last season when Pinner and Bryson were still on the roster, deserves to get the ball more. Having Bryson and Pinner take carries away from Jones is like pinch hitting for your best hitter because you want everyone on the team to play.
That reminds me. What is all this silliness Mariucci spouts off about in regards to a guy playing "X" number of snaps? It goes something like this "Mr. Third String cornerback, who has been inactive all year, had to fill in today and played 34 snaps. He's a tough kid." Thirty-four snaps? Is this Pee Wee ball or the pros? Doesn't matter if the guy ended up like burnt toast, he got to play today! Hooray!
On top of that, he's a tough kid? You've slapped Harrington around for years in public, the guy took it, shows up every week, never bad mouths you, gets killed by the fans and run over by opposing defensive players each week (because your O-line is horrible) and the third string CB is tough for playing 34 snaps? What a load.
Is it any wonder I have to turn off the radio long before the press conference concludes? This sort of nonsense goes on each week. The media did pound Mariucci pretty good the last two weeks, but he just seem confused why he is being questioned. That only annoys me more. I really do need to stop listening.
Sunday, November 13, 2005
Multiple Bloggers
One more post of a personal nature before returning to the hard-hitting sports reporting you have come to expect. Or, at least, a return to the ill-conceived, poorly written sports posts I usually offer. Actually, that's what I want to talk about--blogging.
I have found that a number of my favorite bloggers, Ian, Sam and Billfer, to name just three, are writing multiple blogs. Ian cranks out both Fried Rice Thoughts and the newborn, Sweaty Men Endeavors. Sam apparently does not sleep ever and in between classes at the University of Michigan writes Blue Cats and Red Sox, Chicks Talk Football and Roar of the Tigers. Sam, please toss in any other blogging efforts I missed. Billfer is also busy with The Billfer Blog, the Detroit Tigers Weblog and TV for Tots.com.
It's not just that they are blogging, but they are producing high quality work at a number of venues all at the same time. Never mind they have lives beyond the internet to maintain. I'm both in awe and somewhat jealous of their prodigious work. (I'm not even mentioning Rob's podcasting which is far beyond my comprehension.)
I have attempted to run two blogs, this one and Big Ten Hardball, a blog about Big Ten college baseball. I've been running Big Ten Hardball, both as a dotcom and now a blog, for a number of years. I love the college game and couldn't find any information on the Big Ten scene, so I began my own site. Yet, I find maintaining two sites next to impossible.
I often wonder if I should combine content of both into this blog, maintain both, but re-double my efforts at the other blog or just can Big Ten Hardball? Forget quality content, as I so often do, I can't even work out a direction for two blogs.
I know what you are thinking. "Brian, the difference between them and you is simple. They have talent. Oh, and they are more internet savvy than you". Well, yeah, I knew that, but how on Earth can they crank out that much stuff? Seriously, I think all three have more to do than I (no kids or UofM classes for me) and they seem to be busy somewhere on the 'net all the time.
In the end, I'm not quite sure what my point is. (Proving the naysayers right about blogging.) I think the only thing I can do is just tip my cap to my three blogging allies. Thanks for quality work and keeping my inferiority complex intact.
I have found that a number of my favorite bloggers, Ian, Sam and Billfer, to name just three, are writing multiple blogs. Ian cranks out both Fried Rice Thoughts and the newborn, Sweaty Men Endeavors. Sam apparently does not sleep ever and in between classes at the University of Michigan writes Blue Cats and Red Sox, Chicks Talk Football and Roar of the Tigers. Sam, please toss in any other blogging efforts I missed. Billfer is also busy with The Billfer Blog, the Detroit Tigers Weblog and TV for Tots.com.
It's not just that they are blogging, but they are producing high quality work at a number of venues all at the same time. Never mind they have lives beyond the internet to maintain. I'm both in awe and somewhat jealous of their prodigious work. (I'm not even mentioning Rob's podcasting which is far beyond my comprehension.)
I have attempted to run two blogs, this one and Big Ten Hardball, a blog about Big Ten college baseball. I've been running Big Ten Hardball, both as a dotcom and now a blog, for a number of years. I love the college game and couldn't find any information on the Big Ten scene, so I began my own site. Yet, I find maintaining two sites next to impossible.
I often wonder if I should combine content of both into this blog, maintain both, but re-double my efforts at the other blog or just can Big Ten Hardball? Forget quality content, as I so often do, I can't even work out a direction for two blogs.
I know what you are thinking. "Brian, the difference between them and you is simple. They have talent. Oh, and they are more internet savvy than you". Well, yeah, I knew that, but how on Earth can they crank out that much stuff? Seriously, I think all three have more to do than I (no kids or UofM classes for me) and they seem to be busy somewhere on the 'net all the time.
In the end, I'm not quite sure what my point is. (Proving the naysayers right about blogging.) I think the only thing I can do is just tip my cap to my three blogging allies. Thanks for quality work and keeping my inferiority complex intact.
My Adventure On Ice
This is probably better suited for my very popular "Things You Don't Care About" posts, however I'm going to share anyway. Most of you will be departing shortly, however I encourage you to come back again when the subject is something more to your liking. Perhaps, "Tigers Sign Free Agent......".
I'll just cut to the chase. I've started curling. No, not hurling, although I find myself a tad under the weather today, curling. Yes, the sport considered the private domain of Canadians. The sport of bocce ball on ice. (I'll bet if one of my instructors reads this I'm in big trouble with that analogy.) Yes, that curling.
Now, what could possibly make me do something so incredibly silly? My desire to have played or seen every sport known to man? Nope, although that's an interesting idea. Boredom? Perhaps, but I was looking for some type of winter recreation. See, your friendly blogger is getting older and far, far less active. Yet, what other sport can you take up in the winter?
Skiing is cool, but I see my doctor far too often as it is. No need for any extra time with the medical profession. Bowling? I just never got into bowling. I still don't have much desire for the game. No, it isn't much different than curling other than the ice, I guess, but bowling and I aren't made for each other.
Unfortunately, I am not the type to just start running aimlessly or heading over the the local gym/house of ill repute to pump iron for no reason. Exercise just to keep in shape? Please pass me the remote and a doughnut. It just seems pointless to me. I need something with a bit of competition. I need the thrill of victory, if not the hope of the thrill of victory, to get my juices running. So, when I found the curling course being offered, I joined.
Let me make this perfectly clear to all of you laughing and rolling on the ground right now, it's darn difficult. I kid you not. The best analogy I can draw is to golf. Sure, it looks easy on television and I guess knocking the little white ball around isn't hard, but to do it correctly and successfully requires far more time and effort than most are willing to expend.
Unlike golf, where there are driving ranges, putting greens and a number of venues to practice when away from a course, where on Earth can I practice curling except at the Curling Club? That lack of reinforcement makes it difficult to impove quickly as we only meet once a week.
Two weeks in and I, well, I am not good. Surprise! Ok, not a surprise. My muscles seem to be responding better, I'm not so sore this week, but the actual curling isn't going all that well. I feel like I do in the middle of a golf lesson--align to your target, check your grip, stay loose, envision your shot, open/close clubface, keep your head down, one piece take-away, make a complete shoulder turn, etc...... I'm trying to remember about twelve different things and I usually don't recall all of them, thus I am in a routine of poor shot, poor form, poor shot, poor form.
We are heading for week three of five of this endeavor into making me look even more ridiculous than normal. I haven't decided if this little foray into curling will persist beyond that time frame, but I can tell you that I have a new found respect for those men and women who do this at the highest level. I even have respect for those who get hammered while curling. I can't play properly while sober, the odds of success after tipping a Labatt's or two diminish significantly. (Oh, for your information, the kegs are stored next to the ice surface. It's about 39 degrees in the arena.)
I'll just cut to the chase. I've started curling. No, not hurling, although I find myself a tad under the weather today, curling. Yes, the sport considered the private domain of Canadians. The sport of bocce ball on ice. (I'll bet if one of my instructors reads this I'm in big trouble with that analogy.) Yes, that curling.
Now, what could possibly make me do something so incredibly silly? My desire to have played or seen every sport known to man? Nope, although that's an interesting idea. Boredom? Perhaps, but I was looking for some type of winter recreation. See, your friendly blogger is getting older and far, far less active. Yet, what other sport can you take up in the winter?
Skiing is cool, but I see my doctor far too often as it is. No need for any extra time with the medical profession. Bowling? I just never got into bowling. I still don't have much desire for the game. No, it isn't much different than curling other than the ice, I guess, but bowling and I aren't made for each other.
Unfortunately, I am not the type to just start running aimlessly or heading over the the local gym/house of ill repute to pump iron for no reason. Exercise just to keep in shape? Please pass me the remote and a doughnut. It just seems pointless to me. I need something with a bit of competition. I need the thrill of victory, if not the hope of the thrill of victory, to get my juices running. So, when I found the curling course being offered, I joined.
Let me make this perfectly clear to all of you laughing and rolling on the ground right now, it's darn difficult. I kid you not. The best analogy I can draw is to golf. Sure, it looks easy on television and I guess knocking the little white ball around isn't hard, but to do it correctly and successfully requires far more time and effort than most are willing to expend.
Unlike golf, where there are driving ranges, putting greens and a number of venues to practice when away from a course, where on Earth can I practice curling except at the Curling Club? That lack of reinforcement makes it difficult to impove quickly as we only meet once a week.
Two weeks in and I, well, I am not good. Surprise! Ok, not a surprise. My muscles seem to be responding better, I'm not so sore this week, but the actual curling isn't going all that well. I feel like I do in the middle of a golf lesson--align to your target, check your grip, stay loose, envision your shot, open/close clubface, keep your head down, one piece take-away, make a complete shoulder turn, etc...... I'm trying to remember about twelve different things and I usually don't recall all of them, thus I am in a routine of poor shot, poor form, poor shot, poor form.
We are heading for week three of five of this endeavor into making me look even more ridiculous than normal. I haven't decided if this little foray into curling will persist beyond that time frame, but I can tell you that I have a new found respect for those men and women who do this at the highest level. I even have respect for those who get hammered while curling. I can't play properly while sober, the odds of success after tipping a Labatt's or two diminish significantly. (Oh, for your information, the kegs are stored next to the ice surface. It's about 39 degrees in the arena.)
Baseball Headline Roundup
Javier Vazquez took a step closer to becoming a Detroit Tiger by demanding to be traded. (In the interest of honesty, it should be stated that Vazquez moved a step closer to joining another team, not necessarily the Tigs. Why quibble over technicalities?) His current employer, the Arizona Diamondbacks, now have until March 15th to move the veteran righthander or face the prospect of Vazquez becoming a free agent.
At the opposite end of the spectrum, Rafael Furcal probably moved off the Tigers radar screen with his request to a ten million dollar a year free agent deal. Oh, how I would have loved to have Furcal at short and Carlos Guillen at third on Opening Day. Alas, it is not to be.
Bobby Valentine appears close to staying in Japan. Everyone cheered.
I just don't see Jim Beattie getting the Red Sox gig. If he does, I'm not sure I envision him succeeding. It's just a hunch, though.
I'm not a big Jayson Stark fan, but I completely embrace his concept of a Rollie Fingers Award for closers. Uncle Bud, do this now.
Rocco Baldelli inked a new deal with Tampa. I don't know if Baldelli is future Hall of Fame material, early evidence leans against that theory, but I like Baldelli for some reason. I don't know if it's the name or what, but Baldelli is a Beyond Boxscores favorite.
SI.com's John Donovan doesn't provide much insight into the Tigers off-season, but if your interested in a general overview of each MLB team's off-season shopping list, check this out.
Pudge Rodriguez enters the Texas Hall of Fame.
Mark Becthel, another at SI.com, ponders the fate of Theo Epstein and Paul DePodesta. Bechtel wonders if the young Moneyball-era G.M.'s might be great at assembling teams on paper, but struggle with the politics of the job, team chemistry issues and other items that can't be evaluated on a PC?
Ugie, Ugie, Ugie. That Placido Polanco deal looks better every minute, doesn't it?
At the opposite end of the spectrum, Rafael Furcal probably moved off the Tigers radar screen with his request to a ten million dollar a year free agent deal. Oh, how I would have loved to have Furcal at short and Carlos Guillen at third on Opening Day. Alas, it is not to be.
Bobby Valentine appears close to staying in Japan. Everyone cheered.
I just don't see Jim Beattie getting the Red Sox gig. If he does, I'm not sure I envision him succeeding. It's just a hunch, though.
I'm not a big Jayson Stark fan, but I completely embrace his concept of a Rollie Fingers Award for closers. Uncle Bud, do this now.
Rocco Baldelli inked a new deal with Tampa. I don't know if Baldelli is future Hall of Fame material, early evidence leans against that theory, but I like Baldelli for some reason. I don't know if it's the name or what, but Baldelli is a Beyond Boxscores favorite.
SI.com's John Donovan doesn't provide much insight into the Tigers off-season, but if your interested in a general overview of each MLB team's off-season shopping list, check this out.
Pudge Rodriguez enters the Texas Hall of Fame.
Mark Becthel, another at SI.com, ponders the fate of Theo Epstein and Paul DePodesta. Bechtel wonders if the young Moneyball-era G.M.'s might be great at assembling teams on paper, but struggle with the politics of the job, team chemistry issues and other items that can't be evaluated on a PC?
Ugie, Ugie, Ugie. That Placido Polanco deal looks better every minute, doesn't it?
Friday, November 11, 2005
Figuring Out The NHL Salary Cap
I listen to a fair amount of sports talk radio. Yeah, I'm nuts, but you knew that. Anyway, something that almost never fails to astound even this sports junkie is how many people can spit out data on the NFL salary cap.
A caller will say something like "The Lions are $3 million under the cap right now". It doesn't matter if "right now" is November 11th or April 1, this individual knows what the Lions salary structure is versus the cap this instant. Now, I'll admit he probably doesn't know what's in his checking account, but the caller does appear to have a grasp on the Lions cap number. Conversely, I can't even begin to guess what the cap figure is let alone what the Lions up-to-the-minute salary total is at any point in the year.
This leads me to the new NHL cap. While I'm sure the hockey mavens are probably all over this, I haven't seen or heard too much about the specifics of the deal. So, when James Mirtle offered his two cents in light of a Hockey News feature on the matter, I found it rather interesting. Seems their are some loopholes in the ol' hockey cap. Not all of them are producing smart hockey decisions, either.
A caller will say something like "The Lions are $3 million under the cap right now". It doesn't matter if "right now" is November 11th or April 1, this individual knows what the Lions salary structure is versus the cap this instant. Now, I'll admit he probably doesn't know what's in his checking account, but the caller does appear to have a grasp on the Lions cap number. Conversely, I can't even begin to guess what the cap figure is let alone what the Lions up-to-the-minute salary total is at any point in the year.
This leads me to the new NHL cap. While I'm sure the hockey mavens are probably all over this, I haven't seen or heard too much about the specifics of the deal. So, when James Mirtle offered his two cents in light of a Hockey News feature on the matter, I found it rather interesting. Seems their are some loopholes in the ol' hockey cap. Not all of them are producing smart hockey decisions, either.
Armistice Day
On the eleventh hour, of the eleventh day of the eleventh month of 1918, World War I ended. The year after, this nation observed Armistice Day. Over the years, this day has evolved into Veteran's Day where we salute all of those who have served in our armed forces. I want to take a moment to thank all of those who have served and are serving currently.
Our Canadian friends annually observe Remembrance Day by donning poppies. I think it's a fine tradition and thank James Mirtle for providing the link to the picture seen here. It is provided by the Canadian Legion.
In the spirit of Armistice Day, I offer a special thank you to the few remaining who served in The Great War. Their numbers are now few, but their effort remains immeasurable.
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Trading Pudge And Adding Arms
Figuring out what the Detroit Tigers should do in the off-season is always entertaining. Well, it's entertaining for me anyway. Trying to gauge what direction the Tigers are going, I bring you the following tidbits of media speculation and my pointless input, as well.
First is Lynn Henning's piece in Wednesday's Detroit News. Henning ponders a possible trade of Pudge Rodriguez. While he offers the obvious obstacle, Pudge's contract, he suggests the Mets might be a potential trading partner in the post-Mike Piazza era. They have both the need for a catcher and enough money to consider acquiring the future Hall of Fame member. It seems like a logical assumption.
Henning then provided a trade scenario I like even better. Here Henning wonders if Pudge could be dealt to Arizona for Javier Vazquez. Pudge is due around $20 million over the next two years while Vazquez is going to get $24 million. From a contractual standpoint, it's just about a wash. From a competitive standpoint, my initial reaction is "Oh, please let this deal happen".
I'll admit Vazquez' numbers don't knock your socks off, but a veteran who is still throwing 200 innings a season with nearly 200 K's is something that would almost have to help the rotation.
Vazquez is also the same age as A.J. Burnett, whom the Tigers and half of MLB is pursuing. While I have no idea what kind of coin is going to be tossed Burnett's way, I do know that Vazquez is only signed for two more seasons. If he fails, the Tigers aren't paying him for an eternity (see Higginson, Bobby and Ordonez, Magglio) which might be the case with Burnett.
While Vazquez has pitched far more innings than Burnett, I doubt Burnett is going to sign for only two seasons. Vazquez might give you the similar production, but for less money and/or over a shorter period of time. I like the concept of less long-term risk.
Here is the question we can debate. Who would you rather see on the mound in the second game of the year--Vazquez, Mike Maroth or Nate Robertson? Better yet, ask yourself who gives you a better chance of winning Game Two of a playoff series? Again, I'll opt for Vazquez.
If you ask me who the Tigers could use more in 2006, Pudge or Vazquez? I'd pick Vazquez. A veteran, reliable starter over a catcher not all that happy to be here? It's not that difficult a decision.
Now, let's remember something. Vazquez alone would not be my off-season plan. No, no, no. Then the Tigers need to follow that up by landing another free agent starter. Yes, I know Dave Dombrowski is implying only one starter is needed. I tend to disagree. If the Tigers could pull the Rodriguez for Vazquez deal, I would then go after another free agent arm.
Why? Well, how about an Opening Day rotation of Jeremy Bonderman, Vazquez, Matt Morris (for the sake of argument), Nate Robertson and Mike Maroth? Would you feel better about your staff then? Would you feel better about the Tigers in general? I would. Once again, I defer to my earlier question. Would you rather have Morris or Robertson or Maroth pitching the third game of 2006? Which is more likely to help the Tigers close the gap on the World Champion White Sox?
Some of you out there are going to wonder about Justin Verlander and Joel Zumaya? The really geeky types might even ask about Roman Colon. Well, kids, I think the Tigers youngsters belong in Toledo. I want them to earn a spot in the big league rotation. Basically, I don't want them rushed to Comerica Park as Bonderman was.
Once they arrive, I want them firmly entrenched in the back of the rotation until they merit a promotion. Adding a couple of veteran arms should easy the pressure on the entire staff and allow the prospects to develop on their own timetable. I realize that's crazy talk, but that's kind of typical around here.
In spite of the company line that says the Tigers are only looking for one starter and a closer this winter, I would like the Tigers to find a way to add a bat or two (Rafael Furcal, please) plus a second starter (Morris, Jarrod Washburn, Paul Bryd, et al). That's a hefty "To Do" list. It's probably not even possible, but it's Hot Stove banter, so I'm going to dream big until given a reason not to.
First is Lynn Henning's piece in Wednesday's Detroit News. Henning ponders a possible trade of Pudge Rodriguez. While he offers the obvious obstacle, Pudge's contract, he suggests the Mets might be a potential trading partner in the post-Mike Piazza era. They have both the need for a catcher and enough money to consider acquiring the future Hall of Fame member. It seems like a logical assumption.
Henning then provided a trade scenario I like even better. Here Henning wonders if Pudge could be dealt to Arizona for Javier Vazquez. Pudge is due around $20 million over the next two years while Vazquez is going to get $24 million. From a contractual standpoint, it's just about a wash. From a competitive standpoint, my initial reaction is "Oh, please let this deal happen".
I'll admit Vazquez' numbers don't knock your socks off, but a veteran who is still throwing 200 innings a season with nearly 200 K's is something that would almost have to help the rotation.
Vazquez is also the same age as A.J. Burnett, whom the Tigers and half of MLB is pursuing. While I have no idea what kind of coin is going to be tossed Burnett's way, I do know that Vazquez is only signed for two more seasons. If he fails, the Tigers aren't paying him for an eternity (see Higginson, Bobby and Ordonez, Magglio) which might be the case with Burnett.
While Vazquez has pitched far more innings than Burnett, I doubt Burnett is going to sign for only two seasons. Vazquez might give you the similar production, but for less money and/or over a shorter period of time. I like the concept of less long-term risk.
Here is the question we can debate. Who would you rather see on the mound in the second game of the year--Vazquez, Mike Maroth or Nate Robertson? Better yet, ask yourself who gives you a better chance of winning Game Two of a playoff series? Again, I'll opt for Vazquez.
If you ask me who the Tigers could use more in 2006, Pudge or Vazquez? I'd pick Vazquez. A veteran, reliable starter over a catcher not all that happy to be here? It's not that difficult a decision.
Now, let's remember something. Vazquez alone would not be my off-season plan. No, no, no. Then the Tigers need to follow that up by landing another free agent starter. Yes, I know Dave Dombrowski is implying only one starter is needed. I tend to disagree. If the Tigers could pull the Rodriguez for Vazquez deal, I would then go after another free agent arm.
Why? Well, how about an Opening Day rotation of Jeremy Bonderman, Vazquez, Matt Morris (for the sake of argument), Nate Robertson and Mike Maroth? Would you feel better about your staff then? Would you feel better about the Tigers in general? I would. Once again, I defer to my earlier question. Would you rather have Morris or Robertson or Maroth pitching the third game of 2006? Which is more likely to help the Tigers close the gap on the World Champion White Sox?
Some of you out there are going to wonder about Justin Verlander and Joel Zumaya? The really geeky types might even ask about Roman Colon. Well, kids, I think the Tigers youngsters belong in Toledo. I want them to earn a spot in the big league rotation. Basically, I don't want them rushed to Comerica Park as Bonderman was.
Once they arrive, I want them firmly entrenched in the back of the rotation until they merit a promotion. Adding a couple of veteran arms should easy the pressure on the entire staff and allow the prospects to develop on their own timetable. I realize that's crazy talk, but that's kind of typical around here.
In spite of the company line that says the Tigers are only looking for one starter and a closer this winter, I would like the Tigers to find a way to add a bat or two (Rafael Furcal, please) plus a second starter (Morris, Jarrod Washburn, Paul Bryd, et al). That's a hefty "To Do" list. It's probably not even possible, but it's Hot Stove banter, so I'm going to dream big until given a reason not to.
Monday, November 07, 2005
Good News, Bad News
ESPN.com reveals it's very early MLB power rankings for 2006. The good news is the Detroit Tigers, ranked 18th, got some rather complimentary things said about them. The bad news is that three of the other four teams in the A.L. Central are ahead of the Tigers. Worse news is that Cleveland holds down the top spot overall and the defending champions, Chicago, are in at number two.
Sunday, November 06, 2005
Time To Start Anew?
I want to make sure I understand this correctly. The Detroit Lions lost to the Minnesota Vikings today? The same Vikings that traded away one of the most dominant forces in the game, Randy Moss, this past off-season? The same Vikings that were playing their second string quarterback? The same Vikings that have played like crap all year even with their all-world, first string QB, Dante Culepepper healthy? The same Vikings who are now commonly known to all as "The Crew of The Love Boat" for their off-field antics just a few weeks ago? The same Vikings that nearly everyone had written off for dead? Those Vikings? No wonder Greg Eno hates them.
After watching even half of that debacle this afternoon, and you should earn some sort of Boy Scout Merit badge if you did manage to stomach that much of the game, does anyone think it's not time for the Ford family to start over? After watching this team fall to 3-5, can anyone honestly argue against tossing Matt Millen, Steve Mariucci and everyone else in a management role out and starting over?
I'll start with Millen. He's been given much credit for drafting well. I think we have evidence to the contrary. He took Charles Rogers second overall, that's second in the whole stinking draft, knowing he failed a drug test. He's failed, at least, three more since. Did anyone in the Lions' front office do a background check on the kid?
Roy Williams, invisible in big games at Texas, has been just plain invisible in Detroit. Williams was another first round pick that has been underwhelming. Mike Williams, the third straight wideout grabbed by the Lions in the first round, is also a non-factor. Did I mention their off-field problems-like not showing up for practice or not working hard once there? That's zero for three with three straight draft picks.
The Lions have a terrible offensive line. Millen's free agent attempts to shore up the O-line have failed. Period. That's an underperforming receiving corps combined with a poor offensive line. Not the recipe for success, is it?
And what of our lovely, albeit typical Lions, quarterback dilemma? We all realize Joey Harrington is done here. Harrington was another wasted first round choice and Jeff Garcia is old enough to have been Bobby Layne's back-up. So, neither Millen's draft pick or his free agent acquisition have solved the Lions signal caller problem.
We are left with a team that desperately needs to acquire a new quarterback and probably around two offensive linemen minimum. They also have what appears to be three underproductive malcontents playing wideout. That's just on one side of the ball.
What about Millen's eye for selecting coaches? Gary Moeller, Marty Morninweg and Mariucci. That's three guys so far. Anyone one of you impressed with Millen's decision making in this area?
With each passing week, with each first round pick fading or not even making an initial impact, I lose faith in Millen's eye for talent. Both in terms of player and coach evaluation.
As for the Honolulu Blue and Silver's current coach, his claim to fame was offense. Again, anyone watching this silliness think the Lions play well on offense? Even if you believe Mooch is a run-first, pass second type of coach, where on Earth is the ground game? Outside of the last eight games of 2004, has anyone seen a Lions running attack?
If, in fact, Mariucci believes in running as a priority, why did the team just take three straight wideouts in the first round of the draft and not O-linemen? I understand Mariucci isn't Don Coryell, but on paper, that's the type of squad he finds himself in charge of. Yet, he hasn't adapted.
For a guy who may be best known for working with Brett Favre, Mariucci has shown no ability to help elevate Harrington's game (or confidence) nor has his handpicked back-up, Garcia, shown much more than he exhibited in his stint in Cleveland last campaign. A quarterback guru, Mariucci is not.
I am frustrated. Again. Still, is a better word. I'm trying to think of a reason for the Lions current decision makers to continue in that capacity. I'm failing miserably to do so. Then, again, so are the Lions.
I just don't like saying people should lose their jobs. Mostly because I don't really think it's very nice. I also don't like to call for people to be fired because it tends to sound like typical blog over-reaction. Or angry sports-talk radio caller banter. You tend to lose credibility because you simply don't sound reasonable. However, I'm struggling to find reasons for the Lions to continue down the road they are taking.
I'm in no mood for rebuilding. In fact, I don't even like using the "R" word in relation to the Lions. If you are a Lions fan, neither do you. Who knows how long that could take? It's been almost fifty years as it is now. Why in the world would any of us want to sit through another make-over? Yet, I can't imagine this group succeeding, so what other choice do we have?
After watching even half of that debacle this afternoon, and you should earn some sort of Boy Scout Merit badge if you did manage to stomach that much of the game, does anyone think it's not time for the Ford family to start over? After watching this team fall to 3-5, can anyone honestly argue against tossing Matt Millen, Steve Mariucci and everyone else in a management role out and starting over?
I'll start with Millen. He's been given much credit for drafting well. I think we have evidence to the contrary. He took Charles Rogers second overall, that's second in the whole stinking draft, knowing he failed a drug test. He's failed, at least, three more since. Did anyone in the Lions' front office do a background check on the kid?
Roy Williams, invisible in big games at Texas, has been just plain invisible in Detroit. Williams was another first round pick that has been underwhelming. Mike Williams, the third straight wideout grabbed by the Lions in the first round, is also a non-factor. Did I mention their off-field problems-like not showing up for practice or not working hard once there? That's zero for three with three straight draft picks.
The Lions have a terrible offensive line. Millen's free agent attempts to shore up the O-line have failed. Period. That's an underperforming receiving corps combined with a poor offensive line. Not the recipe for success, is it?
And what of our lovely, albeit typical Lions, quarterback dilemma? We all realize Joey Harrington is done here. Harrington was another wasted first round choice and Jeff Garcia is old enough to have been Bobby Layne's back-up. So, neither Millen's draft pick or his free agent acquisition have solved the Lions signal caller problem.
We are left with a team that desperately needs to acquire a new quarterback and probably around two offensive linemen minimum. They also have what appears to be three underproductive malcontents playing wideout. That's just on one side of the ball.
What about Millen's eye for selecting coaches? Gary Moeller, Marty Morninweg and Mariucci. That's three guys so far. Anyone one of you impressed with Millen's decision making in this area?
With each passing week, with each first round pick fading or not even making an initial impact, I lose faith in Millen's eye for talent. Both in terms of player and coach evaluation.
As for the Honolulu Blue and Silver's current coach, his claim to fame was offense. Again, anyone watching this silliness think the Lions play well on offense? Even if you believe Mooch is a run-first, pass second type of coach, where on Earth is the ground game? Outside of the last eight games of 2004, has anyone seen a Lions running attack?
If, in fact, Mariucci believes in running as a priority, why did the team just take three straight wideouts in the first round of the draft and not O-linemen? I understand Mariucci isn't Don Coryell, but on paper, that's the type of squad he finds himself in charge of. Yet, he hasn't adapted.
For a guy who may be best known for working with Brett Favre, Mariucci has shown no ability to help elevate Harrington's game (or confidence) nor has his handpicked back-up, Garcia, shown much more than he exhibited in his stint in Cleveland last campaign. A quarterback guru, Mariucci is not.
I am frustrated. Again. Still, is a better word. I'm trying to think of a reason for the Lions current decision makers to continue in that capacity. I'm failing miserably to do so. Then, again, so are the Lions.
I just don't like saying people should lose their jobs. Mostly because I don't really think it's very nice. I also don't like to call for people to be fired because it tends to sound like typical blog over-reaction. Or angry sports-talk radio caller banter. You tend to lose credibility because you simply don't sound reasonable. However, I'm struggling to find reasons for the Lions to continue down the road they are taking.
I'm in no mood for rebuilding. In fact, I don't even like using the "R" word in relation to the Lions. If you are a Lions fan, neither do you. Who knows how long that could take? It's been almost fifty years as it is now. Why in the world would any of us want to sit through another make-over? Yet, I can't imagine this group succeeding, so what other choice do we have?
Saturday, November 05, 2005
Future Tiger List?
Both regular readers here realize that when it comes to sports, I have attention deficit problems. As my blogroll alone would indicate, I watch just about everything. So with so many sports underway, what am I thinking about today? Baseball, of course. Perhaps, the one sport not being played this second.
I've been wondering exactly who is going to be a free agent, basically because I want to know whom Dave Dombrowski might be pondering. As such, I did what any dolt with a PC would do--I went to Google. My search revealed these lists.
The first is a complete rundown of anyone and everyone available. MLB4U.com also provided it's Top 50 Free Agents with a breakdown of potential suitors plus their guess as to where these guys may land. RotoAuthority.com also takes a guess at where it's Top 50 might sign.
As I mentioned in my last post, everyone and their sister knows the Tigers are interested in A.J. Burnett. However, it's also true that everyone and their sister are interested in signing Burnett which I thinks makes the Tigers chances of landing him much smaller. Not impossible, just unlikely. Frankly, I'm not sure that's entirely a bad thing.
I didn't like Carl Pavano last off-season and I feel much the same way about Burnett now. Sure, I'd love to see him in an Olde English D, but with his spotty career, I have trouble with the Tigers offering Burnett a big time deal. He probably has the most potential of any free agent starter, but he just sort of scares me.
Yes, he could be great. He could also be a total disaster. It's not like if he hurts his arm he can still DH. This could be said for any pitcher, but I'd feel better seeing Dombrowski give really big cash to a really big name, then giving Burnett a long term, big money deal. (Example: Roy Oswalt is a free agent. He's a big time pitcher. He wants $18 million per season? Where do the Tigers sign?) Hey, I could be totally wrong and Burnett could power the Detroit boys to the post-season in '06, but his history doesn't give me the warm fuzzies.
Looking over the lists, a few initial things caught my attention. First, Rafael Furcal is available. Don't go screaming, "We already have a shortstop, Carlos Guillen. He's one of the best in the game. Why bring in Furcal, you moron?". Easy, kids. I thinking bringing in Furcal and moving Guillen makes the Tigers infield better.
I also think Furcal could provide some speed and hit just a bit. I worry about Guillen's knee and think the Tigers would be wise to get another shortstop ready. If Guillen remains injured, I like the idea of Brandon Inge at 3B and Furcal at SS better than I like Inge at third and insert utility player here at short.
Then, I see Brian Giles is also on the open market. Now, I know D.D. claims the Tigers offense is set. Well, they had some bad spells last year and Giles could help. He is not in his prime, but with all the ex-Pirates now running the Tigers clubhouse, I wonder if Giles might get a call from an ex-Pittsburgh contact now in Motown?
If Giles isn't the Tigers leftfielder, how about Jacque Jones?
Matt Morris is projected by MLG4U.com to sign as Jason Johnson's replacement. I'm not sure how much Morris has left, but it's an interesting idea. Again, like everyone else, it depends on how much money these guys sign for. Where to draw the line is what Dombrowski is getting paid for.
There seems to be a ton of free agent closers on the open market. I have to think the Tigers can land a decent one. Jose Mesa might be my guess, again, because of the Pirate connection.
I could be plain crazy, but wouldn't signing Jarrod Washburn and Paul Byrd make the Tigers rotation better and for a more reasonable contract figure than just targeting Burnett? Honestly, I'll take all the arms the Tigers can afford to sign right now.
I did chuckle just a bit when I saw MLB4U.com implied the Tigers were the type of team Jeff Weaver might sign with. Call me crazy, but I don't think Dombrowski is interested in a second go-around with Weaver under any circumstance.
Well, there's little better than wild speculation during the Hot Stove League season. Enjoy the lists and feel free to remind me just how wrong I am.
Oh, and before I go, here is another Tigers blog for you to visit. Head over to Tiger Tales for far better baseball analysis than I can provide.
I've been wondering exactly who is going to be a free agent, basically because I want to know whom Dave Dombrowski might be pondering. As such, I did what any dolt with a PC would do--I went to Google. My search revealed these lists.
The first is a complete rundown of anyone and everyone available. MLB4U.com also provided it's Top 50 Free Agents with a breakdown of potential suitors plus their guess as to where these guys may land. RotoAuthority.com also takes a guess at where it's Top 50 might sign.
As I mentioned in my last post, everyone and their sister knows the Tigers are interested in A.J. Burnett. However, it's also true that everyone and their sister are interested in signing Burnett which I thinks makes the Tigers chances of landing him much smaller. Not impossible, just unlikely. Frankly, I'm not sure that's entirely a bad thing.
I didn't like Carl Pavano last off-season and I feel much the same way about Burnett now. Sure, I'd love to see him in an Olde English D, but with his spotty career, I have trouble with the Tigers offering Burnett a big time deal. He probably has the most potential of any free agent starter, but he just sort of scares me.
Yes, he could be great. He could also be a total disaster. It's not like if he hurts his arm he can still DH. This could be said for any pitcher, but I'd feel better seeing Dombrowski give really big cash to a really big name, then giving Burnett a long term, big money deal. (Example: Roy Oswalt is a free agent. He's a big time pitcher. He wants $18 million per season? Where do the Tigers sign?) Hey, I could be totally wrong and Burnett could power the Detroit boys to the post-season in '06, but his history doesn't give me the warm fuzzies.
Looking over the lists, a few initial things caught my attention. First, Rafael Furcal is available. Don't go screaming, "We already have a shortstop, Carlos Guillen. He's one of the best in the game. Why bring in Furcal, you moron?". Easy, kids. I thinking bringing in Furcal and moving Guillen makes the Tigers infield better.
I also think Furcal could provide some speed and hit just a bit. I worry about Guillen's knee and think the Tigers would be wise to get another shortstop ready. If Guillen remains injured, I like the idea of Brandon Inge at 3B and Furcal at SS better than I like Inge at third and insert utility player here at short.
Then, I see Brian Giles is also on the open market. Now, I know D.D. claims the Tigers offense is set. Well, they had some bad spells last year and Giles could help. He is not in his prime, but with all the ex-Pirates now running the Tigers clubhouse, I wonder if Giles might get a call from an ex-Pittsburgh contact now in Motown?
If Giles isn't the Tigers leftfielder, how about Jacque Jones?
Matt Morris is projected by MLG4U.com to sign as Jason Johnson's replacement. I'm not sure how much Morris has left, but it's an interesting idea. Again, like everyone else, it depends on how much money these guys sign for. Where to draw the line is what Dombrowski is getting paid for.
There seems to be a ton of free agent closers on the open market. I have to think the Tigers can land a decent one. Jose Mesa might be my guess, again, because of the Pirate connection.
I could be plain crazy, but wouldn't signing Jarrod Washburn and Paul Byrd make the Tigers rotation better and for a more reasonable contract figure than just targeting Burnett? Honestly, I'll take all the arms the Tigers can afford to sign right now.
I did chuckle just a bit when I saw MLB4U.com implied the Tigers were the type of team Jeff Weaver might sign with. Call me crazy, but I don't think Dombrowski is interested in a second go-around with Weaver under any circumstance.
Well, there's little better than wild speculation during the Hot Stove League season. Enjoy the lists and feel free to remind me just how wrong I am.
Oh, and before I go, here is another Tigers blog for you to visit. Head over to Tiger Tales for far better baseball analysis than I can provide.
Thursday, November 03, 2005
Burnett Begins Tour
Free agent righthander A.J. Burnett began his off-season tour of interested clubs in Toronto. Burnett, who by most accounts remains high on the Detroit Tigers list, will probably get a call from a number of teams including the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox.
They're Back
Joey Harrington is forced back into the starter's role with Jeff Garcia hurt. While in Pittsburgh, ex-Lion QB Charlie Batch will make a start for the Steelers. I'll let you draw your own conclusions on these bits of breaking news.
Belated Halloween Rant
It's time for my annual Halloween rant. My apologies for running behind this year. I realize most of you haven't slept in anticipation of this post. Anyway, while the age of our trick-or-treaters was a big issue with me last autumn, the dilemma arose again in '05. This time, however, the age problem went in the opposite direction.
In my corner of the planet, we tend to get an unhealthy number of semi-adults still out begging for chocolate. These "kids" are old enough to drive. Many are old enough to buy Jack Daniels and not get carded. These tikes need to be off doing whatever annoying things you do at that age not parading around the neighborhood Halloween night.
Now, this year, we had a slightly different phenomenon occur. The kids weren't even kids yet. Nope, they were babies. Some of them, actually, many of them, weren't quite up to walking effectively. A number of them were still stroller bound. Oh, a few were teamed up in the back of wagons, but either way, they weren't up to walking for long periods of time. (After the first couple of parents attempted to cram their stroller up my steps, I gave in and met them on my walk.)
Yet, there they were all cute and cuddly with their Halloween bag in hand. Well, that's not quite accurate, either. Just as they were too young to be walking very far, or at all, these ghosts and goblins weren't about to hold a plastic pumpkin street after street. They just weren't strong enough yet. So I tossed their Snickers into the container on their lap.
This is where my rant really begins. Who is kidding who here? These little ones are probably eating mushed peas for dinner, yet they are in desire of M&M's? They don't have teeth yet, but they are out mooching for bubble gum and Milky Way's? We all know what's going on here.
The babies are a front for a not-so-clever chocolate begging operation. Their parents, who no doubt use a similar method when dealing with grandparents, turn into extortionists. They toss a cute little one all dressed up on your porch and what are you going to do? Tell them to get lost? Don't think so. Nope, you are going to smile, say how gosh darn cute the baby is and cough up another Reese's Peanut Butter Cup, so their parents can get a free sugar high for the next couple of days.
It was bad enough when I was feeding young adults, but now I am feeding parents, too? These folks probably make more money than me and have far more popular blogs, too, yet I have to provide them with sugar based treats? Something seems wrong about the whole thing. Is it any wonder why I am not a fan of Halloween?
We need Congress to act. Set some age limits for crying out loud. Something like ages 3-10 seems pretty good to me. I'll even take five years to twelve year olds. After that, sorry, kids, you'll just have to wait for the Halloween bar scene. If our government won't act, I may have to.
I'm thinking about carding the older looking kids and asking for DNA tests from these parents. At this point, I wouldn't be surprised if they just borrowed or rented the baby for the evening in order to solicit candy. Someone has to stop the madness.
In my corner of the planet, we tend to get an unhealthy number of semi-adults still out begging for chocolate. These "kids" are old enough to drive. Many are old enough to buy Jack Daniels and not get carded. These tikes need to be off doing whatever annoying things you do at that age not parading around the neighborhood Halloween night.
Now, this year, we had a slightly different phenomenon occur. The kids weren't even kids yet. Nope, they were babies. Some of them, actually, many of them, weren't quite up to walking effectively. A number of them were still stroller bound. Oh, a few were teamed up in the back of wagons, but either way, they weren't up to walking for long periods of time. (After the first couple of parents attempted to cram their stroller up my steps, I gave in and met them on my walk.)
Yet, there they were all cute and cuddly with their Halloween bag in hand. Well, that's not quite accurate, either. Just as they were too young to be walking very far, or at all, these ghosts and goblins weren't about to hold a plastic pumpkin street after street. They just weren't strong enough yet. So I tossed their Snickers into the container on their lap.
This is where my rant really begins. Who is kidding who here? These little ones are probably eating mushed peas for dinner, yet they are in desire of M&M's? They don't have teeth yet, but they are out mooching for bubble gum and Milky Way's? We all know what's going on here.
The babies are a front for a not-so-clever chocolate begging operation. Their parents, who no doubt use a similar method when dealing with grandparents, turn into extortionists. They toss a cute little one all dressed up on your porch and what are you going to do? Tell them to get lost? Don't think so. Nope, you are going to smile, say how gosh darn cute the baby is and cough up another Reese's Peanut Butter Cup, so their parents can get a free sugar high for the next couple of days.
It was bad enough when I was feeding young adults, but now I am feeding parents, too? These folks probably make more money than me and have far more popular blogs, too, yet I have to provide them with sugar based treats? Something seems wrong about the whole thing. Is it any wonder why I am not a fan of Halloween?
We need Congress to act. Set some age limits for crying out loud. Something like ages 3-10 seems pretty good to me. I'll even take five years to twelve year olds. After that, sorry, kids, you'll just have to wait for the Halloween bar scene. If our government won't act, I may have to.
I'm thinking about carding the older looking kids and asking for DNA tests from these parents. At this point, I wouldn't be surprised if they just borrowed or rented the baby for the evening in order to solicit candy. Someone has to stop the madness.
Monday, October 31, 2005
DIBS Awards
A couple of weeks ago, I received a request from Billfer at the Detroit Tigers Weblog to participate with a number of other Detroit sports blogs to vote on our Tigers Players of the Year. This group of united bloggers had been given the name DIBS, an acronym for Detroit Independent Baseball Scribes. That or we've been named by a Rob Dibble fan.
DIBS was formed by Brian at the TigerBlog.net, Ryan at Detroit Tigers Central and the aforementioned Billfer. All three deserve credit, praise and possibly ridicule for allowing me to vote. We voted for three categories in the first annual DIBS Awards: Player of the Year, Pitcher of the Year and Breakout Player of the Year. Each site selected a first, second and third place nomination in each category.
The DIBS ballots have been tabulated by two very nice senior citizens from Florida, known for their acumen in such things, and here are your winners. The DIBS Tigers Player of the Year is
Placido Polanco. Our Tigers Pitcher of the Year is Jeremy Bonderman. Chris Shelton got a unanimous selection as Breakout Player of the Year.
For those of you dying to know how I voted, here is how my ballot looked. Player of the Year I gave to Chris Shelton, followed by Polanco, then Craig Monroe. I felt Shelton's body of work in a Detroit uniform merited him a tad more pull than Polanco, who was also stellar for a bad team, but wasn't here as long.
My pitcher of the Year nod went to Bonderman. His second half was a disappointment, but he's still rather young and led the squad in a number of categories. Mike Maroth got my second place vote, then Kyle Farnsworth.
My Breakout Player of the Year vote went to Shelton, then Polanco (mostly for his "breakout" here, not in MLB.) Curtis Granderson claimed my last vote in the Breakout category.
For those of you curious, here are all the blogs that currently make up DIBS. I believe I have links to all the members in my blogroll, but for handy reference here is a list.
Detroit Tigers Weblog
Detroit Tigers Central
TigerBlog.net
Roar of the Tigers
Motown Sports Revival
SportsPig
The Cheap Seats
Out of Bounds
Detroit Sports Squad
Bless You Boys
Beyond Boxscores
While DIBS is in its infancy, I would suspect that all parties are hoping that this affiliation will bring fame, fortune, media credentials, more hits (both for our sites and the Tigs' offense) and possibly quality time with Brandon Inge (Sam's not-so-secret desire). Seriously, I would hope this would be our first of many yearly awards and, perhaps, other joint ventures.
DIBS was formed by Brian at the TigerBlog.net, Ryan at Detroit Tigers Central and the aforementioned Billfer. All three deserve credit, praise and possibly ridicule for allowing me to vote. We voted for three categories in the first annual DIBS Awards: Player of the Year, Pitcher of the Year and Breakout Player of the Year. Each site selected a first, second and third place nomination in each category.
The DIBS ballots have been tabulated by two very nice senior citizens from Florida, known for their acumen in such things, and here are your winners. The DIBS Tigers Player of the Year is
Placido Polanco. Our Tigers Pitcher of the Year is Jeremy Bonderman. Chris Shelton got a unanimous selection as Breakout Player of the Year.
For those of you dying to know how I voted, here is how my ballot looked. Player of the Year I gave to Chris Shelton, followed by Polanco, then Craig Monroe. I felt Shelton's body of work in a Detroit uniform merited him a tad more pull than Polanco, who was also stellar for a bad team, but wasn't here as long.
My pitcher of the Year nod went to Bonderman. His second half was a disappointment, but he's still rather young and led the squad in a number of categories. Mike Maroth got my second place vote, then Kyle Farnsworth.
My Breakout Player of the Year vote went to Shelton, then Polanco (mostly for his "breakout" here, not in MLB.) Curtis Granderson claimed my last vote in the Breakout category.
For those of you curious, here are all the blogs that currently make up DIBS. I believe I have links to all the members in my blogroll, but for handy reference here is a list.
Detroit Tigers Weblog
Detroit Tigers Central
TigerBlog.net
Roar of the Tigers
Motown Sports Revival
SportsPig
The Cheap Seats
Out of Bounds
Detroit Sports Squad
Bless You Boys
Beyond Boxscores
While DIBS is in its infancy, I would suspect that all parties are hoping that this affiliation will bring fame, fortune, media credentials, more hits (both for our sites and the Tigs' offense) and possibly quality time with Brandon Inge (Sam's not-so-secret desire). Seriously, I would hope this would be our first of many yearly awards and, perhaps, other joint ventures.
Sunday, October 30, 2005
Same Old, Same Old
Twenty-three of thirty-five for 197 yards. No touchdowns. One huge interception. Those were Jeff Garcia's stats from today's 19-13 loss to Chicago. New quarterback, technically, new old quarterback, same old results--a loss that can be attributed to a poor decision by the Detroit Lions quarterback.
In overtime, Garcia threw a pass across his body only to have it picked off for a Bears touchdown. It was about as easy a TD as you will see, about as bad a decision as you will see and about as typical a Lions loss as you will see.
While the cries for Joey Harrington's return are not forthcoming, we should all realize that this is what you get from Garcia. When plays breakdown, Garcia goes to work. Sometimes that results in good things, sometimes bad things occur.
Critics or Garcia supporters (see Mariucci, Steve) might argue that Garcia is trying to "make plays" for a bad team with a poor offensive line and third string receivers. Yeah, and when Harrington tried to force action he was just stupid. Garcia gets nailed play after play because his line can't block and he's considered tough and gritty. His mistakes occur because he's a playmaker looking to make plays. Harrington gets beat up behind the same offensive line and he isn't tough and is trying too hard to make big plays.
Today's loss was just the latest disappointment for anyone that cares for this football team. It's wasn't, however, anything new. Just more of the same.
In overtime, Garcia threw a pass across his body only to have it picked off for a Bears touchdown. It was about as easy a TD as you will see, about as bad a decision as you will see and about as typical a Lions loss as you will see.
While the cries for Joey Harrington's return are not forthcoming, we should all realize that this is what you get from Garcia. When plays breakdown, Garcia goes to work. Sometimes that results in good things, sometimes bad things occur.
Critics or Garcia supporters (see Mariucci, Steve) might argue that Garcia is trying to "make plays" for a bad team with a poor offensive line and third string receivers. Yeah, and when Harrington tried to force action he was just stupid. Garcia gets nailed play after play because his line can't block and he's considered tough and gritty. His mistakes occur because he's a playmaker looking to make plays. Harrington gets beat up behind the same offensive line and he isn't tough and is trying too hard to make big plays.
Today's loss was just the latest disappointment for anyone that cares for this football team. It's wasn't, however, anything new. Just more of the same.
Friday, October 28, 2005
Friday Night Rambling
Before I head off to watch tonight's important British Columbia at Edmonton CFL tilt, and the less critical, but very entertaining The Kumars at No. 42, I've been piling up some notes around here and it's time to share my complaints and observations with you. I know. You are thrilled. Go Esks!
* Phil Garner's not exactly getting rave reviews for his World Series, is he?
* I know some say the World Series was boring, but the games were all very close and most of the casual sports fans I know enjoyed the Series.
* What is up with Bobby Valentine? This guy just can't shut up about a "true" World Series between the Japanese League winner and the MLB World Series champs. I'm not sure what his motives are, but Valentine just seems obsessed with this international world series concept of his. Note to Bobby: Shut up, already.
Three points, Bobby V. First, whining about it isn't going to help your cause. Second, there is a true lack of interest in the States for international baseball of any kind. Olympic baseball can't draw flies. The upcoming World Baseball Classic is illiciting mostly yawns at this point. Baseball fans I've talked to are indifferent at best to any international series under any format. Third, if the ratings are falling with teams from Chicago and Houston in the World Series, does anyone really think a Chicago versus Chiba Lotte match-up is going to be a ratings winner?
* The Detroit Lions are playing the Chicago Bears for first place Sunday. Really. The Lions could be alone in first place by Sunday evening. No, I'm not kidding.
* The other day I'm watching PTI. The boys are kind of chuckling at the lack of attendance at NHL games. Fair enough. Within a half an hour, I'm watching a Carolina/Boston contest where the fans have come dressed as empty seats. It's either poor attendance or the greatest Halloween promotion ever.
Later that same evening, I'm watching C-SPAN. Me? Watching C-SPAN? Scary, I know. However, I digress. I'm watching a representative from Florida pleading for an independent Hurricane Katrina commission. The rep. from Florida actually had displays made to support his statements. The one I saw look like his middle school kid did it for homework. (At least it got an A.)
Anyway, the Florida member is talking to about five people in the chamber. There are three members of the House present plus a couple of aides. That's it. Five people in the United States House of Representatives. Which seems more ridiculous? The small amount of people who refuse to pay to attend a professional hockey game in the South or the even smaller amount of people, whom we pay to govern, actually sitting in the House while business is being carried out?
* Maybe I'm just not well versed enough in football, but when the list of would-be Hall of Famers is announced each year I find that I think the majority of players named should be inducted. This year is no exception. No, I wouldn't vote for every guy, but I'd give the nod to a large percentage on the ballot.
* In this edition of Things You Don't Care About, I offer the Breeders Cup. If I'm home tomorrow, I'll be watching. You will not.
* Hoops season is about to begin. I think the Pistons will still be a force. If the bench can come through, they can still beat everyone in the East. Yes, even Miami and Indiana. Here is ESPN.com's power rankings for the NBA. Apparently, Marc Stein shares my sentiment on the Pistons.
* Can a Boston Celtics fan please, please explain to me what Danny Ainge is doing? Thank you.
* For you college basketball fans, here is there look at ESPN's college top 25. If you love college hoops, here are two blogs that are mandatory reading. Yoco: College Basketball and Big Ten Wonk. Neither needs an ounce of my support, but in the remote chance you haven't come across one or the other, let me encourage you to do so now. Why are you still here?
* Oil companies weren't gouging us at the pump. I mean Exxon barely increased revenues in the third quarter. You can't make money with a 75% increase in revenues each quarter.
Well, I've got more, but kick-off is nearing. Contrary to the rumors, I do have priorities. Skewed priorities, but priorities nonetheless.
Post-script: The Eskimos prevailed. I know you are as happy as I am.
* Phil Garner's not exactly getting rave reviews for his World Series, is he?
* I know some say the World Series was boring, but the games were all very close and most of the casual sports fans I know enjoyed the Series.
* What is up with Bobby Valentine? This guy just can't shut up about a "true" World Series between the Japanese League winner and the MLB World Series champs. I'm not sure what his motives are, but Valentine just seems obsessed with this international world series concept of his. Note to Bobby: Shut up, already.
Three points, Bobby V. First, whining about it isn't going to help your cause. Second, there is a true lack of interest in the States for international baseball of any kind. Olympic baseball can't draw flies. The upcoming World Baseball Classic is illiciting mostly yawns at this point. Baseball fans I've talked to are indifferent at best to any international series under any format. Third, if the ratings are falling with teams from Chicago and Houston in the World Series, does anyone really think a Chicago versus Chiba Lotte match-up is going to be a ratings winner?
* The Detroit Lions are playing the Chicago Bears for first place Sunday. Really. The Lions could be alone in first place by Sunday evening. No, I'm not kidding.
* The other day I'm watching PTI. The boys are kind of chuckling at the lack of attendance at NHL games. Fair enough. Within a half an hour, I'm watching a Carolina/Boston contest where the fans have come dressed as empty seats. It's either poor attendance or the greatest Halloween promotion ever.
Later that same evening, I'm watching C-SPAN. Me? Watching C-SPAN? Scary, I know. However, I digress. I'm watching a representative from Florida pleading for an independent Hurricane Katrina commission. The rep. from Florida actually had displays made to support his statements. The one I saw look like his middle school kid did it for homework. (At least it got an A.)
Anyway, the Florida member is talking to about five people in the chamber. There are three members of the House present plus a couple of aides. That's it. Five people in the United States House of Representatives. Which seems more ridiculous? The small amount of people who refuse to pay to attend a professional hockey game in the South or the even smaller amount of people, whom we pay to govern, actually sitting in the House while business is being carried out?
* Maybe I'm just not well versed enough in football, but when the list of would-be Hall of Famers is announced each year I find that I think the majority of players named should be inducted. This year is no exception. No, I wouldn't vote for every guy, but I'd give the nod to a large percentage on the ballot.
* In this edition of Things You Don't Care About, I offer the Breeders Cup. If I'm home tomorrow, I'll be watching. You will not.
* Hoops season is about to begin. I think the Pistons will still be a force. If the bench can come through, they can still beat everyone in the East. Yes, even Miami and Indiana. Here is ESPN.com's power rankings for the NBA. Apparently, Marc Stein shares my sentiment on the Pistons.
* Can a Boston Celtics fan please, please explain to me what Danny Ainge is doing? Thank you.
* For you college basketball fans, here is there look at ESPN's college top 25. If you love college hoops, here are two blogs that are mandatory reading. Yoco: College Basketball and Big Ten Wonk. Neither needs an ounce of my support, but in the remote chance you haven't come across one or the other, let me encourage you to do so now. Why are you still here?
* Oil companies weren't gouging us at the pump. I mean Exxon barely increased revenues in the third quarter. You can't make money with a 75% increase in revenues each quarter.
Well, I've got more, but kick-off is nearing. Contrary to the rumors, I do have priorities. Skewed priorities, but priorities nonetheless.
Post-script: The Eskimos prevailed. I know you are as happy as I am.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
A Different Pair Of Sox
While I openly admit to rooting for the Houston Astros, I congratulate the Chicago White Sox on winning the World Series. In particular, I congratulate the Sox' fans. They are the overlooked baseball fans in Chicago, but they get their much deserved, and long awaited, moment alone in the spotlight. The White Sox are unquestionably the best team in baseball in 2005. Congratulations to all.
In the inevitable comparison to last year's champions, the Boston Red Sox, some have wondered why the White Sox triumph after 88 years of failure isn't getting the same attention as Boston's much anticipated crown after an 86 year long drought? That's easy. Here are the reasons.
1. Babe Ruth- You've heard of him, right? See, the Red Sox had Ruth and a mini-dynasty going when he was sold to New York. In moving the lefthanded hurler, the Red Sox unloaded a man who went from great pitcher to unrivaled hitter to baseball legend to American icon. Ruth is as synonymous with baseball as any player in the game's history. Ruth completely altered the game. "He changed the game from one of hit and run to a game of hit and watch" (Can't recall where I got that quote from, but it stuck in my head.)
Not only did the selling of Ruth end the Red Sox pre-1920 dominance and send the Red Sox spiraling down until some kid named Ted Williams arrive, it gave birth to the......
2. New York Yankees Dynasty- In selling Ruth, Harry Frazee did more than end the Sox early 20th Century success. He gave birth to the most successful franchise in baseball history and left the Fenway Faithful wondering if their former legend had placed a curse on their team. That's one stinking bad deal.
Conversely, can you even name the White Sox biggest rival? It's probably the Cubs, a team they didn't play regularly until inter-league play was born. The ChiSox don't have to live with selling their best player to their rival, watching him become the biggest thing in the sport and triggering an unprecedented era of success.
The 88 year wait was awful by any stretch of the imagination, but if the Cubs had won twenty-six world championships since 1919, the ChiSox win would even be a greater release of frustration. (Honestly, after watching both Sox win titles, aren't the Cubs fans alone in their misery now?)
3. The Painful Near Misses- The White Sox went to one World Series, post 1919, in 1959. The Red Sox didn't appear in many more (four-1946, 1967, 1975 and 1986), but they managed to lose each in agonizing fashion. All were seven games series.
Those post-season losses don't include all of those second place finishes, mostly to the hated Yankees, and playing in the first two one game playoffs in baseball history. Losing both, first to Cleveland in 1948 and the second to, of course, the Yankees in 1978.
The White Sox don't have a history of historically painful close calls in the post-season. Those kind of meltdowns make for great literature, but only lead to more frustration and suffering for fans. The White Sox may be lucky not to have had that added on to their near century long wait for a crown.
4. A House Divided- The White Sox don't even own all of their city's fanbase. The Cubs own, at minimum, half of the hardball fans in the Windy City. It's hard to get all the attention when you aren't even the only attraction in town.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, the Red Sox own most if not all of the New England states. In having so many universities, Boston also has a developed a legion of fans who end up scattered throughout the country. The White Sox struggle to sell their merchandise in their home town. That's a big difference.
4. The Black Sox Scandal- Say what you will, but post 1919, the White Sox just didn't give too many folks the warm fuzzies. White Sox Nation wasn't going to be born in that shadow. (Although, it could have been born last night.) The White Sox have a small, but devout following, not a fanbase with a nickname.
5. East Coast Media Bias- Come on. You knew I had to toss that one in there. I think it's difficult to argue that with all the media hubs so close to Boston, the Red Sox title simply seemed more important in places like Baltimore, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., New York, etc... Thus, the Red Sox win got more ink nationwide.
While the White Sox championship isn't getting the press the Red Sox did a year ago, it isn't any less significant. Eighty-eight years is a terribly long time to wait for anything. The odds of Chicago's baseball entry going that long without their next championship have to be near as bad as me winning the lottery tomorrow.
For now, that just doesn't matter. All that matters is that the protracted frustration of White Sox fans has finally ended. I hope they spend a good year embracing and rejoicing in this moment. They have suffered through the downtime, they've earned the right to cherish this. Congrats, again, White Sox fans.
In the inevitable comparison to last year's champions, the Boston Red Sox, some have wondered why the White Sox triumph after 88 years of failure isn't getting the same attention as Boston's much anticipated crown after an 86 year long drought? That's easy. Here are the reasons.
1. Babe Ruth- You've heard of him, right? See, the Red Sox had Ruth and a mini-dynasty going when he was sold to New York. In moving the lefthanded hurler, the Red Sox unloaded a man who went from great pitcher to unrivaled hitter to baseball legend to American icon. Ruth is as synonymous with baseball as any player in the game's history. Ruth completely altered the game. "He changed the game from one of hit and run to a game of hit and watch" (Can't recall where I got that quote from, but it stuck in my head.)
Not only did the selling of Ruth end the Red Sox pre-1920 dominance and send the Red Sox spiraling down until some kid named Ted Williams arrive, it gave birth to the......
2. New York Yankees Dynasty- In selling Ruth, Harry Frazee did more than end the Sox early 20th Century success. He gave birth to the most successful franchise in baseball history and left the Fenway Faithful wondering if their former legend had placed a curse on their team. That's one stinking bad deal.
Conversely, can you even name the White Sox biggest rival? It's probably the Cubs, a team they didn't play regularly until inter-league play was born. The ChiSox don't have to live with selling their best player to their rival, watching him become the biggest thing in the sport and triggering an unprecedented era of success.
The 88 year wait was awful by any stretch of the imagination, but if the Cubs had won twenty-six world championships since 1919, the ChiSox win would even be a greater release of frustration. (Honestly, after watching both Sox win titles, aren't the Cubs fans alone in their misery now?)
3. The Painful Near Misses- The White Sox went to one World Series, post 1919, in 1959. The Red Sox didn't appear in many more (four-1946, 1967, 1975 and 1986), but they managed to lose each in agonizing fashion. All were seven games series.
Those post-season losses don't include all of those second place finishes, mostly to the hated Yankees, and playing in the first two one game playoffs in baseball history. Losing both, first to Cleveland in 1948 and the second to, of course, the Yankees in 1978.
The White Sox don't have a history of historically painful close calls in the post-season. Those kind of meltdowns make for great literature, but only lead to more frustration and suffering for fans. The White Sox may be lucky not to have had that added on to their near century long wait for a crown.
4. A House Divided- The White Sox don't even own all of their city's fanbase. The Cubs own, at minimum, half of the hardball fans in the Windy City. It's hard to get all the attention when you aren't even the only attraction in town.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, the Red Sox own most if not all of the New England states. In having so many universities, Boston also has a developed a legion of fans who end up scattered throughout the country. The White Sox struggle to sell their merchandise in their home town. That's a big difference.
4. The Black Sox Scandal- Say what you will, but post 1919, the White Sox just didn't give too many folks the warm fuzzies. White Sox Nation wasn't going to be born in that shadow. (Although, it could have been born last night.) The White Sox have a small, but devout following, not a fanbase with a nickname.
5. East Coast Media Bias- Come on. You knew I had to toss that one in there. I think it's difficult to argue that with all the media hubs so close to Boston, the Red Sox title simply seemed more important in places like Baltimore, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., New York, etc... Thus, the Red Sox win got more ink nationwide.
While the White Sox championship isn't getting the press the Red Sox did a year ago, it isn't any less significant. Eighty-eight years is a terribly long time to wait for anything. The odds of Chicago's baseball entry going that long without their next championship have to be near as bad as me winning the lottery tomorrow.
For now, that just doesn't matter. All that matters is that the protracted frustration of White Sox fans has finally ended. I hope they spend a good year embracing and rejoicing in this moment. They have suffered through the downtime, they've earned the right to cherish this. Congrats, again, White Sox fans.
Sunday, October 23, 2005
Harrington Era Ends
It's finally over. The moment so many in Detroit have openly pleaded for has arrived. Joey Harrington's reign as the Detroit Lions signal caller ended today. The story of Harrington's future in Motown closed with two huge punctuation marks.
First, was Harrington's benching. Coach Steve Mariucci, who was not at all enamored with the former Oregon All-American, opted to start the wobbly Jeff Garcia instead of Harrington. Mariucci's hand-picked back-up QB got the nod because 1) the defense had grown weary of Harrington's inability to move the offense, 2) Mariucci had grown tired of Harrington's inability to move the offense, 3) the offense had grown tired of Harrington's inability to move them downfield, 4) Lions are somehow in the playoff hunt and, thus, desperately needed a road win and 5) Garcia is Mariucci's boy.
Let's not kid ourselves about number five, either. Did you hear Mariucci's post-game press conference. If Harrington had done exactly the same thing, lead his team to an underwhelming road win, do you think Mooch would have been so glowing about his QB's effort? Please. Mooch just plain disliked Harrington. I don't think it was personal, but Harrington just isn't Mariucci's type of quarterback.
The Lions' coach was so completely unimpressed with Harrington he had difficulty saying anything nice about Joey. And I do mean anything. I think if he was told Harrington saved five people from a burning building, Mariucci would suggest that if Harrington's timing was better Joey could have saved the building, too.
Mooch could never openly commit to Harrington in any fashion and everyone knew how much he loved number five. So, having Garcia start over a slumping Harrington surprises no one. However, that move alone didn't cement Harrington's fate.
No, what has done Harrington in is punctuation mark number two-Garcia led the Lions to a 13-10 win over Cleveland. Any hope Harrington had of returning as a starter here is now gone, shy of Garcia getting re-injured. Wins have been few and far between with Harrington at the controls. To see Garcia, basically, get his cast removed one day and lead the team to a road win the next makes Harrington look even worse. For all intents and purposes, Harrington's career in Detroit ended with the Garcia-led victory.
As with any move, there are short-term and long-term implications. The short-term is simple. Garcia is the starter. Period. A road win without Roy Williams, Charles Rogers, Kevin Johnson, Shaun Rogers and Dre Bly (the last three falling to injury during the course of the game) merits Garcia the position. He showed a nice aptitude for improvisation. Garcia also seems to have a degree of respect from his teammates. Note Garcia's post-TD celebration. It wasn't a solo act, as Harrington's so often were. Nope, Garcia was warmly greeted by others wearing the same uniform. That implies to me that Mariucci made the right decision for the entire team.
However, let's not confuse Garcia's triumph with something grander. The Lions did only score one touchdown. Forgive me, but they ain't exactly Air Coryell, yet. We are all hoping that as some of the wideouts get healthy and Garcia works with them in practice that some of the offensive potential the Lions seem to have on paper will appear on the field. Today's win is just that-today's win. Let's see how Garcia and this team progress before we anointed Garcia the next Bobby Layne.
Garcia may well lead the Lions to the post-season this year (it's a bad, bad division) and may get the same opportunity in 2006, but that's where our little quarterback shuffle makes things less clear. Garcia isn't a puppy anymore. In fact, he's AARP eligible. In the long run, the Lions are going to have to, please sit immediately, the Lions are going to have to draft a quarterback. There I said it. The Lions will need to draft a QB in 2006.
Garcia simply isn't the long-term answer for the Lions. The Lions should draft a quarterback next year and have him sit behind Garcia for '06. Give the kid the a chance to learn from a veteran quarterback for a year, then hand him the reigns in 2007. (Although, having watched this offensive line, it's hard to imagine the Lions taking something other than a OL with their first pick in the draft.)
Garica is, however, the Lions' best short-term solution. Harrington's poor play over a protracted amount of time just couldn't be tolerated any longer. It had divided the team. Garcia came in and showed what a decent NFL quarterback can do. It was only one game, but it signaled two things. The end of the line for Joey Harrington in Detroit and the push for the 2005 Lions to make the playoffs.
The quarterback changes means the team will worry about the future in the future. (A concept, by the way, that will scare many of us in the future. Remember, I warned you.) Right now, Garcia gives them their best chance to win each week. That's all that matters.
First, was Harrington's benching. Coach Steve Mariucci, who was not at all enamored with the former Oregon All-American, opted to start the wobbly Jeff Garcia instead of Harrington. Mariucci's hand-picked back-up QB got the nod because 1) the defense had grown weary of Harrington's inability to move the offense, 2) Mariucci had grown tired of Harrington's inability to move the offense, 3) the offense had grown tired of Harrington's inability to move them downfield, 4) Lions are somehow in the playoff hunt and, thus, desperately needed a road win and 5) Garcia is Mariucci's boy.
Let's not kid ourselves about number five, either. Did you hear Mariucci's post-game press conference. If Harrington had done exactly the same thing, lead his team to an underwhelming road win, do you think Mooch would have been so glowing about his QB's effort? Please. Mooch just plain disliked Harrington. I don't think it was personal, but Harrington just isn't Mariucci's type of quarterback.
The Lions' coach was so completely unimpressed with Harrington he had difficulty saying anything nice about Joey. And I do mean anything. I think if he was told Harrington saved five people from a burning building, Mariucci would suggest that if Harrington's timing was better Joey could have saved the building, too.
Mooch could never openly commit to Harrington in any fashion and everyone knew how much he loved number five. So, having Garcia start over a slumping Harrington surprises no one. However, that move alone didn't cement Harrington's fate.
No, what has done Harrington in is punctuation mark number two-Garcia led the Lions to a 13-10 win over Cleveland. Any hope Harrington had of returning as a starter here is now gone, shy of Garcia getting re-injured. Wins have been few and far between with Harrington at the controls. To see Garcia, basically, get his cast removed one day and lead the team to a road win the next makes Harrington look even worse. For all intents and purposes, Harrington's career in Detroit ended with the Garcia-led victory.
As with any move, there are short-term and long-term implications. The short-term is simple. Garcia is the starter. Period. A road win without Roy Williams, Charles Rogers, Kevin Johnson, Shaun Rogers and Dre Bly (the last three falling to injury during the course of the game) merits Garcia the position. He showed a nice aptitude for improvisation. Garcia also seems to have a degree of respect from his teammates. Note Garcia's post-TD celebration. It wasn't a solo act, as Harrington's so often were. Nope, Garcia was warmly greeted by others wearing the same uniform. That implies to me that Mariucci made the right decision for the entire team.
However, let's not confuse Garcia's triumph with something grander. The Lions did only score one touchdown. Forgive me, but they ain't exactly Air Coryell, yet. We are all hoping that as some of the wideouts get healthy and Garcia works with them in practice that some of the offensive potential the Lions seem to have on paper will appear on the field. Today's win is just that-today's win. Let's see how Garcia and this team progress before we anointed Garcia the next Bobby Layne.
Garcia may well lead the Lions to the post-season this year (it's a bad, bad division) and may get the same opportunity in 2006, but that's where our little quarterback shuffle makes things less clear. Garcia isn't a puppy anymore. In fact, he's AARP eligible. In the long run, the Lions are going to have to, please sit immediately, the Lions are going to have to draft a quarterback. There I said it. The Lions will need to draft a QB in 2006.
Garcia simply isn't the long-term answer for the Lions. The Lions should draft a quarterback next year and have him sit behind Garcia for '06. Give the kid the a chance to learn from a veteran quarterback for a year, then hand him the reigns in 2007. (Although, having watched this offensive line, it's hard to imagine the Lions taking something other than a OL with their first pick in the draft.)
Garica is, however, the Lions' best short-term solution. Harrington's poor play over a protracted amount of time just couldn't be tolerated any longer. It had divided the team. Garcia came in and showed what a decent NFL quarterback can do. It was only one game, but it signaled two things. The end of the line for Joey Harrington in Detroit and the push for the 2005 Lions to make the playoffs.
The quarterback changes means the team will worry about the future in the future. (A concept, by the way, that will scare many of us in the future. Remember, I warned you.) Right now, Garcia gives them their best chance to win each week. That's all that matters.
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
Adu Acts His Age
Soccer phenom Freddy Adu has been speaking out about his lack of playing time. It's easy and probably correct to shrug off Adu's comments as typical. Typical as soccer star and petulant are nearly synonymous. Typical as high paid athletes are always lamenting something. Typical because, well, because Mr. Adu is a teenager.
How many sixteen year olds that you know would be upset over not getting to stay out later than normal? Or not getting to take the car? Or not being allowed to go somewhere they wanted to go? Darn near all of them I suspect. Adu may well be a teenager, but the difference is the thing he covets is playing time.
Like every other teenager, Adu lacks an important quality that only time and experience provide-perspective. Adu seems to believe that because he was MLS Player of the Week, he should be starting and logging more minutes. Perhaps, he is right. However, what Adu needs to do is consider everything.
First, he is on a championship team. D.C. United has a number of quality players. It's more than a bit derogatory to his teammates to assume he should be handed a starting role.
Second, does Adu think D.C. United's management or the MLS, in general, want to see Adu sit? Nothing would garner the team or the league more SportsCenter highlights (which would then bring the total to one) or revenue than Adu in action. If he was clearly better than his compatriots, I have to think coach Peter Nowak would play Adu.
Third, just because you are MLS Player of the Week doesn't mean you are ready to start for Chelsea or AC Milan. If you cannot beat out D.C. United's midfield or forwards, you aren't going to see much playing time in Europe anyway. Just ask Landon Donovan how that works.
Better yet, ask another former teen phenom, Bobby Convey, about playing time overseas. Convey left Adu's D.C. United squad to play for Reading. (Think AAA baseball, non-soccer friends.) Convey sat for the better part of his first season. He became discouraged, but didn't quit. This year, Convey is significant part of Reading's fine start. Adu may be better than Convey, but Bobby isn't in the Premiership, either.
I realize Adu wants to be on the U.S. side during the 2006 World Cup and feels Nowak's lack of playing time has eliminated his chance. I'm not sure that U.S. coach Bruce Arena, who doesn't appear to be one ounce less a disciplinarian than Nowak, would take Adu even if he was playing and scoring for a different MLS side.
Unfortunately, Adu is living up to the stereotype of overpaid soccer star and teenager simultaneously. He is carrying the weight of all that hype the way almost anyone his age would. At sixteen, it may be going as well as can be expected.
How many sixteen year olds that you know would be upset over not getting to stay out later than normal? Or not getting to take the car? Or not being allowed to go somewhere they wanted to go? Darn near all of them I suspect. Adu may well be a teenager, but the difference is the thing he covets is playing time.
Like every other teenager, Adu lacks an important quality that only time and experience provide-perspective. Adu seems to believe that because he was MLS Player of the Week, he should be starting and logging more minutes. Perhaps, he is right. However, what Adu needs to do is consider everything.
First, he is on a championship team. D.C. United has a number of quality players. It's more than a bit derogatory to his teammates to assume he should be handed a starting role.
Second, does Adu think D.C. United's management or the MLS, in general, want to see Adu sit? Nothing would garner the team or the league more SportsCenter highlights (which would then bring the total to one) or revenue than Adu in action. If he was clearly better than his compatriots, I have to think coach Peter Nowak would play Adu.
Third, just because you are MLS Player of the Week doesn't mean you are ready to start for Chelsea or AC Milan. If you cannot beat out D.C. United's midfield or forwards, you aren't going to see much playing time in Europe anyway. Just ask Landon Donovan how that works.
Better yet, ask another former teen phenom, Bobby Convey, about playing time overseas. Convey left Adu's D.C. United squad to play for Reading. (Think AAA baseball, non-soccer friends.) Convey sat for the better part of his first season. He became discouraged, but didn't quit. This year, Convey is significant part of Reading's fine start. Adu may be better than Convey, but Bobby isn't in the Premiership, either.
I realize Adu wants to be on the U.S. side during the 2006 World Cup and feels Nowak's lack of playing time has eliminated his chance. I'm not sure that U.S. coach Bruce Arena, who doesn't appear to be one ounce less a disciplinarian than Nowak, would take Adu even if he was playing and scoring for a different MLS side.
Unfortunately, Adu is living up to the stereotype of overpaid soccer star and teenager simultaneously. He is carrying the weight of all that hype the way almost anyone his age would. At sixteen, it may be going as well as can be expected.
Stern Dresses Up NBA
The NBA has adopted a dress code for its players. More specific details of the plan came out today. We know a number of players have already voiced displeasure over the plan and some have even gone so far as to imply they would need a stipend to cover the cost of all those tailor made suits. What the opposition to the dress code doesn't understand is that their rhetoric is precisely why David Stern tossed this idea into the collective bargaining agreement in the first place.
Having multi-millionaires complain about a dress code when everyone from CEOs of Fortune 500 companies to the fry guy at McDonald's have to adhere to some form of dress code only makes the players look bad.
When guys who make an average of four million dollars a year hint that they might need some extra cash to pay for the upgraded threads, it makes them all look like Latrell Sprewell complaining about not being able to feed his kids. It makes them look shallow, spoiled and out of touch.
I understand the players not liking someone, especially Stern, telling them what to wear. It does seem kind of un-American, at best. Unconstitutional, at worst. However, as we all know, it's neither. (Well, maybe it is sort of un-American.) The opposition to the NBA dress code would argue that they are being told what to wear after work, as opposed to the majority of us who are only confined by such guidelines during the work day. This notion is off-base.
The players are on company time, in some fashion or another, far more often than they probably care to consider. Going to work tonight? That's company time, at least once you are on the team's premises. Going to the airport to take a team paid for plane ride to your next game? Sounds to me like you are representing your company on a trip. How is that not company time? Were you going to go to Sacramento if the league didn't have a game there? Nope? Then that's company time.
Are you staying in a team booked and paid for hotel? That sounds like something your employer might have something to do with. Again, that's company time. Practice? Well we are all well aware of many of the players' distaste for such repetition, but, again, that's a team mandated appearance like any charity event they force you to attend. If they can make you show up, they can probably decide a minimum attire standard, too.
In light of last year's fight at The Palace and Kobe Bryant's continuing soap opera, is it surprising that Stern decided to take some action to clean up the league's appearance? The fact the NBAPA went along for the ride on this issue leads me to believe that some in the players association might agree with Stern's perspective, as well.
In the end, it's hard for the average fan, especially those making less than four million a season and finding themselves subjected to a company mandated dress code, to feel much sympathy for the players on this one. Welcome to a small portion of the real world, fellas.
Ed. Note: For a very good analysis of the dress code check out C.Y. Ellis of HoopsVibe.com.
Having multi-millionaires complain about a dress code when everyone from CEOs of Fortune 500 companies to the fry guy at McDonald's have to adhere to some form of dress code only makes the players look bad.
When guys who make an average of four million dollars a year hint that they might need some extra cash to pay for the upgraded threads, it makes them all look like Latrell Sprewell complaining about not being able to feed his kids. It makes them look shallow, spoiled and out of touch.
I understand the players not liking someone, especially Stern, telling them what to wear. It does seem kind of un-American, at best. Unconstitutional, at worst. However, as we all know, it's neither. (Well, maybe it is sort of un-American.) The opposition to the NBA dress code would argue that they are being told what to wear after work, as opposed to the majority of us who are only confined by such guidelines during the work day. This notion is off-base.
The players are on company time, in some fashion or another, far more often than they probably care to consider. Going to work tonight? That's company time, at least once you are on the team's premises. Going to the airport to take a team paid for plane ride to your next game? Sounds to me like you are representing your company on a trip. How is that not company time? Were you going to go to Sacramento if the league didn't have a game there? Nope? Then that's company time.
Are you staying in a team booked and paid for hotel? That sounds like something your employer might have something to do with. Again, that's company time. Practice? Well we are all well aware of many of the players' distaste for such repetition, but, again, that's a team mandated appearance like any charity event they force you to attend. If they can make you show up, they can probably decide a minimum attire standard, too.
In light of last year's fight at The Palace and Kobe Bryant's continuing soap opera, is it surprising that Stern decided to take some action to clean up the league's appearance? The fact the NBAPA went along for the ride on this issue leads me to believe that some in the players association might agree with Stern's perspective, as well.
In the end, it's hard for the average fan, especially those making less than four million a season and finding themselves subjected to a company mandated dress code, to feel much sympathy for the players on this one. Welcome to a small portion of the real world, fellas.
Ed. Note: For a very good analysis of the dress code check out C.Y. Ellis of HoopsVibe.com.
Monday, October 17, 2005
Lions Diary
It's October and, let's be honest, the future looks pretty bleak for the Lions. They are a pitiful football team. To make matters even more deflating, the boys in the Honolulu Blue and Silver can't stop talking trash about each other and their coach to the media. Beautiful.
Last November, I gave up on Joey Harrington. This October, I have officially given up on Steve Mariucci. This team is in no way, shape or fashion progressing. In addition, it appears there is lockeroom dissension and a lack of discipline. (The latter being standard fare for the Lions.) I don't think Mariucci can turn this around. I don't think his players think so, either.
I'm not going to dwell on this much now, but suffice to say, it appears the Lions are headed for a "worst case scenario" in 2005. Harrington is done here. Mariucci ought to be. Charles Rogers seems compelled to crash and burn. Roy Williams is revealing why Texas lost every big game they were in while he was in school. The players appear to neither like or trust each other. They give the impression that they think even less of Mariucci.
A team with five first round draft picks at the skill positions can't score points? How is that anything but a worst case scenario?
If Matt Millen is forced to let Harrington and Mooch go, as it appears he will be, how is this team not in a complete rebuilding mode come January? How are any of us supposed to be happy about this?
For the first time ever, I am apathetic. I'll watch a few minutes of action here and there, but invest time and emotion in a franchise that struggles to finish above .500 in the league that invented parity? Sorry, I just can't do it right now.
Just let me know when the draft is. By the way, how many losses do the Lions need to draft Matt Leinart?
Update: Here is more good news on the Lions front courtesy of Michael Smith at ESPN.com.
Last November, I gave up on Joey Harrington. This October, I have officially given up on Steve Mariucci. This team is in no way, shape or fashion progressing. In addition, it appears there is lockeroom dissension and a lack of discipline. (The latter being standard fare for the Lions.) I don't think Mariucci can turn this around. I don't think his players think so, either.
I'm not going to dwell on this much now, but suffice to say, it appears the Lions are headed for a "worst case scenario" in 2005. Harrington is done here. Mariucci ought to be. Charles Rogers seems compelled to crash and burn. Roy Williams is revealing why Texas lost every big game they were in while he was in school. The players appear to neither like or trust each other. They give the impression that they think even less of Mariucci.
A team with five first round draft picks at the skill positions can't score points? How is that anything but a worst case scenario?
If Matt Millen is forced to let Harrington and Mooch go, as it appears he will be, how is this team not in a complete rebuilding mode come January? How are any of us supposed to be happy about this?
For the first time ever, I am apathetic. I'll watch a few minutes of action here and there, but invest time and emotion in a franchise that struggles to finish above .500 in the league that invented parity? Sorry, I just can't do it right now.
Just let me know when the draft is. By the way, how many losses do the Lions need to draft Matt Leinart?
Update: Here is more good news on the Lions front courtesy of Michael Smith at ESPN.com.
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Soccer's Hall Of Fame
Part of my vacation was spent at the Soccer Hall of Fame in Oneonta, New York. Which I am sure makes Eric at Ramblings of a Soccer Junky impressed and, perhaps, envious. (I tried to post a picture, but Blogger keeps rejecting it. Must be because I am actually in said photo. When I get a different picture uploaded, I'll try posting again.) The Hall was better than I expected. Which either means I had incredibly low expectations or my lack of knowledge about U.S. soccer history made the place seem more interesting. Of course, both are possible, as well.
The Soccer Hall of Fame is in Oneonta for one primary reason. They are trying to lure the baseball junkies from Cooperstown about twenty miles down the road. It basically says so at the very first exhibit you come across. Honestly, it may seem kind of pathetic at first, but why not take advantage of a natural drawing card?
I would call myself a casual soccer fan, so I doubt I would have traveled too far out of my way to visit the Soccer Hall of Fame. However, since it was just down the road from the hotel I stayed at, it was an easy decision. See, it is always about location, location, location.
As for the displays, I enjoyed the NASL exhibit probably most of all. It having been the pro league I was most familiar with (Beckenbauer fan here). I was a bit underwhelmed at the quantity of NASL material on display in a fairly large room, but I believe all the former teams had some representation.
The history of the sport is fairly well documented and I enjoyed learning about the game's past here in the States. Obviously, there is a heavy emphasis on the U.S. National squads, both men's and women's. There is also a display of all the current MLS teams kits.
The top floor of the two storied structure is basically all interactive. Translated that means you could kick the old football around. Having limited soccer skills, I took a pass on that.
The gift shop was fair. I was surprised at the lack of MLS items available. There were a number of Chicago Fire jerseys, but maybe only two other teams apparel present. (Any place that isn't selling D.C. United items must be called into question.) However, Bruce Arena can rest easy as I did cough up the cash for a Soccer Hall of Fame sweatshirt.
Overall, I'd probably give the place a C+. I might even be convinced to up that to a B-, but in a building as large as they have, they really need to fill the place more efficiently. The history stuff was great, again being ignorant might have helped, and the National Team materials were also very good.
Both the NASL and MLS displays need to be more filled. It's a National Soccer Hall of Fame, let's try and make our leagues (NASL and MLS) seem important. Maybe have a running tab on all-time scoring leaders. The jerseys of all-time scoring leaders, perhaps? It's just a thought.
The Hall has spurred my desire to learn more about the game's history and given me greater respect for those who donned the red, white and blue long, long ago. I would definitely go again, if I was in the area.
The Soccer Hall of Fame is in Oneonta for one primary reason. They are trying to lure the baseball junkies from Cooperstown about twenty miles down the road. It basically says so at the very first exhibit you come across. Honestly, it may seem kind of pathetic at first, but why not take advantage of a natural drawing card?
I would call myself a casual soccer fan, so I doubt I would have traveled too far out of my way to visit the Soccer Hall of Fame. However, since it was just down the road from the hotel I stayed at, it was an easy decision. See, it is always about location, location, location.
As for the displays, I enjoyed the NASL exhibit probably most of all. It having been the pro league I was most familiar with (Beckenbauer fan here). I was a bit underwhelmed at the quantity of NASL material on display in a fairly large room, but I believe all the former teams had some representation.
The history of the sport is fairly well documented and I enjoyed learning about the game's past here in the States. Obviously, there is a heavy emphasis on the U.S. National squads, both men's and women's. There is also a display of all the current MLS teams kits.
The top floor of the two storied structure is basically all interactive. Translated that means you could kick the old football around. Having limited soccer skills, I took a pass on that.
The gift shop was fair. I was surprised at the lack of MLS items available. There were a number of Chicago Fire jerseys, but maybe only two other teams apparel present. (Any place that isn't selling D.C. United items must be called into question.) However, Bruce Arena can rest easy as I did cough up the cash for a Soccer Hall of Fame sweatshirt.
Overall, I'd probably give the place a C+. I might even be convinced to up that to a B-, but in a building as large as they have, they really need to fill the place more efficiently. The history stuff was great, again being ignorant might have helped, and the National Team materials were also very good.
Both the NASL and MLS displays need to be more filled. It's a National Soccer Hall of Fame, let's try and make our leagues (NASL and MLS) seem important. Maybe have a running tab on all-time scoring leaders. The jerseys of all-time scoring leaders, perhaps? It's just a thought.
The Hall has spurred my desire to learn more about the game's history and given me greater respect for those who donned the red, white and blue long, long ago. I would definitely go again, if I was in the area.
Midnight Madness At O.U.
Oakland University will be hosting it's version of Midnight Madness Friday. Unless I've read the press release incorrectly, there will not be a practice session for either the men's or women's teams. Have I lost my bearings again or wasn't the point of Midnight Madness to begin practicing the moment it was legally possible to do so?
Fresh off their first NCAA tournament berth, I would have thought the men's squad would take to the floor for something more than just introductions. No offense to the band, dancers and imported entertainment scheduled to perform, but I can't even see a practice session (which I am willing to admit would be lame anyway), I'm not venturing out towards O.U. Friday night.
Fresh off their first NCAA tournament berth, I would have thought the men's squad would take to the floor for something more than just introductions. No offense to the band, dancers and imported entertainment scheduled to perform, but I can't even see a practice session (which I am willing to admit would be lame anyway), I'm not venturing out towards O.U. Friday night.
Tuesday, October 11, 2005
Link Love
Ian Casselberry of Fried Rice Thoughts fame now brings you the somewhat distrubingly titled Sweaty Men Endeavors blog. Ian's providing us with his views on sports at this new venue. I encourage both of my loyal readers......oops. Wait a second. Ian is one of my loyal readers. Let me start over. I encourage my loyal reader to check out Ian's new endeavor.
Ian, I'm sure your hit total will jump to unforeseen heights with my recommendation. Good luck, anyway.
Ian, I'm sure your hit total will jump to unforeseen heights with my recommendation. Good luck, anyway.
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