Bruins Party After Stanley Cup. I Say Why Not?!

It's been about a week since the Boston Bruins won the Stanley Cup and they are still going strong with their celebration. Recently they just dropped a $156,000+ bar tab at Foxwoods Casino between a few of them. The big item was a $100,000 bottle of Midas Ace of Spades champagne, 1 of only 6 bottles in the world! If you are looking for pictures, they are all over the internet. Google now for a laugh. 

In Boston, these men are heroes. They brought the Cup back to Boston after 39 years. With all the championships around here the last 10 years, the Bs had the largest turn out to their victory party. Boston has such a great fan base but i think the Bruins fans are the most loyal and hardcore. About 1.5 million showed up to get a glimpse of their favorite team celebrating. 

Celebrating is exactly what they are doing and I say why not!? This is the pinnacle of what these men have been working so hard for and they achieved it. I would be partying even harder then they are. It must be an amazing feeling to fulfill your dreams so live it up guys, just be ready for training camp. 

San Diego Padres Trade Chips

The Padres got pounded 14-5, at the hands of the Boston Red Sox Monday night. The team sits at 30-44, and it is obvious that the ship has sailed on 2011. The team has been a complete disaster in every facet of the word, and it is time for Jed Hoyer to look to the future. Here are some of the trade chips that the San Diego Padres have at their disposal.

• Heath Bell, Closer.  Signed through 2011, at $7.5 million.  Eligible for free agency after the season.  Bell is one of the Padres best trade assets, and should bring back at least two quality prospects. He has been one of the best closers in the game the last few years, and he has racked up 107 saves in the last 2 1/2 seasons. His strikeout rate is way down, but has still been effective in save situations. Possible Suitors:  Angels, Mariners, Brewers, Cardinals, Yankees, Rangers.

• Ryan Ludwick, Outfielder. Signed through 2011, at $6.7 million.  Eligible for free agency after the 2011 season.  Ludwick had a miserable 2010 with San Diego, and his start to 2011 was just as bad, but he has come on as of late. For the year he has a line of .260/.328/.401, with 9 HR's and 45 RBI's.  He is playing above-average defense in left, and is hitting .285 away from Petco.  Possible Suitors:  Brewers, Cardinals, Mariners, Indians, Tigers.

• Chad Qualls, Relief Pitcher. Signed through 2011 for 1.5 million. Has a club option for 2012 for $6 million, with a $1.05 million buyout. Qualls has pitched much better in 2011, after an abysmal 2010 campaign.  He has a 2.52 ERA, although his strikeout rate is at a career-low. Petco has been his friend, as he has a 0.96 ERA at home, and a 4.24 on the road.  Possible Suitors: Mariners, Red Sox, Yankees, Tigers, Phillies.

• Aaron Harang, Starting Pitcher:  Signed through 2011 for $3.5 million, and a mutual option for $5 million. Has a $500k buyout.  Dealing Harang is incumbent on his return from the DL. He's had a solid 2011, going 7-2 with a 3.71 ERA. Shouldn't cost too much, and can be a good back-end pitcher for a contender.  Possible Suitors:  Red Sox, Yankees, Rangers, Indians, Twins.

• Mike Adams, Relief Pitcher. Signed for 2011 at $2.5 million. Arbitration eligible for 2012.  Adams is simply one of the best setup men in baseball. He has a 1.39 ERA, and strikes out more than a batter an inning. I believe that he may have more value than Heath Bell, but he is eligible for arbitration for 2012, so the Padres may not be inclined to move him.

NBA Draft Preview

The NBA Draft is nearing closer, and it maybe the only NBA related action for awhile, with an impending lockout looming.  The Cleveland Cavaliers hold the top pick in the draft, and are expected to take Duke guard Kyrie Irving with the top pick. While the draft is not considered particularly deep, there are some good players to be had. Here are a few I have my eyes on.

• Kyrie Irving, PG, Duke:  At 6'3 he has the size that NBA coaches love at the point. Shot over 50 % last year, and has great quickness. Durability is a huge concern with him, however. Has drawn comparisons to Chris Paul.
• Derrick Williams, PF, Arizona:  The guy has versatility, as he should be able to play both forward positions. Averaged 19.5 points a game, and shot 57% from 3pt, albeit in limited attempts. Looks like a lock to go #2 to Minnesota.
• Enes Kanter, C, Kentucky/Turkey:  The best center in the draft. Has the ability to score in the post, and knock down mid-range jumpers. At 6'11 and 260lbs, he has the bulk desired to play inside. I think he goes at #4 to Cleveland, who owns the first and fourth picks in the draft.
• Kawhi Leonard, SF, San Diego St:  Obviously, he is my favorite player in the draft, and his stock has been rising. He is a tremendous talent, and can be a defensive force, and a great rebounder, although his jumper really needs to be polished. Has drawn comparisons to Gerald Wallace and Tayshaun Prince. I see him going in the #6-10 range, possibly to Sacramento at #7.

• Brandon Knight, PG, Kentucky:  Another freshman point guard who played at a prestigious school. Has great court vision, and the ability to shoot the 3. Could replace Deron Williams in Utah, who own the third pick in the draft.

There are way too many players for me to cover, but check out www.nbadraft.net for all your draft needs.

80 Year Old McKeon the Man for the Marlins

If my team added a manager who has won over 1,000 games, and managed a club to a World Series title, I would be excited. If the man recalls seeing "Gone With the Wind" in the theatre, I might scratch my head.

The Florida Marlins, reeling after losing 17 of their last 18 games, replaced the departed Edwin Rodriguez with Jack McKeon, the "experienced" leader who led the team to a title in 2003. McKeon is 80 years, and has been away from the game for some time. Perhaps he somewhere waiting to die, who knows?

Sure the guy is old as dirt, but he has had some success. Obviously he is not the long-term answer in Miami, but he could help a talented Marlins team find their way back into the pennant race. He already showed his authority by benching Hanley Ramirez for showing up late to a team meeting. As a Marlins fan, you just have to help he remembers the way to the ballpark everyday. 

City of Champions

The Boston Bruins are the 2010-2011 Stanley Cup Champions and I can't tell you how good it is to say that. I'm proud to say in my life time that I have witnessed a championship from all four major Boston sports franchises. All of those teams have won in the last 10 years solidifying Boston as the city of champions. 

It started in 2001 when the New England Patriots had no business in beating "The Greatest Team on Turf," the St. Louis Rams led by Kurt Warner to win their first Super Bowl. The Pats were underdogs by two touchdowns and it was probably the most surprising championship out of all the Boston championships. They also won again in 2003 and 2004 to go down as the NFL team of the decade. 2007 was a missed opportunity. Pats finished the season undefeated but lost to the New York Giants as David Tyree made a miracle catch to set up the game winning touchdown. 

In 2004, not only did the Patriots win, but the Boston Red Sox ended an 86 year drought and won the World Series. They were the first team to comeback from a 3-0 deficit and beat the rivaled New York Yankees in the AL Divisional series before sweeping the St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series. In 2007 they swept the Colorado Rockies in the World Series as well. 

I was too young to really remember and enjoy the Boston Celtics championships in 1981, 1984, and 1986. The one that does stand out is the 1986 team as I fell in love with the play of Larry Bird and "The Big Three." Luckily I got to watch them win one in 2008 with "The New Big Three" Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen leading the way. The Cs probably should and would have won at least one more if injuries didn't hinder them

Now back to the Boston Bruins! They ended a 39 year drought and are finally bringing the Stanley Cup back to Boston. They brought back the style of "The Big Bad Bruins" of the 70s teams and won with sheer toughness, determination and heart. I'm proud to say I was a fan and was able to experience the thrill and uniqueness of all of Boston's championships. I'll see you at the championship parade. Woooooo!!

The Next Wave of MLB Stars

Is it just me or have MLB teams been hitting more than missing on young talent? It seems that more prospects have been living up to the title of "phenom" in the last few years. There's been a legit dozen game changers over the last two years and all could be the face of their franchise. Teams like the Florida Marlins, Kansas City Royals, and Atlanta Braves have rebuilt the middle of their line up with prospects over the last 2 years. 

I believe the best of the bunch is Mike Stanton. He's played exactly 162 games in his career and his numbers stack up with the best in baseball. Stanton is hitting .259/.332/.530 (avg/obp/slg) with 38 HR, 100RBI and 82 R. Add Logan Morrison (career .288/.388/.477 in 106 games) and Gaby Sanchez (career .284/.354/.469 in 242 games) to the mix and the Florida Marlins have 3 potential all-stars for the next 5-8 years. 

Staying in the NL East, The Atlanta Braves have some young guns of their own. Jason Heyward is a power threat every time he comes to bat. Although he's dealt with a shoulder injury for the majority of this year, he put up great numbers his rookie campaign. At the plate, Heyward batted .277/.393/.456 with 18 HR 72 RBI in 142 games. He also had 11 stolen bases and 91 walks. He's joined by rookie Freddie Freeman who is starting to come on the last month of the season, batting .320 over that time. The Braves also have a young stud closer in Craig Kimbrell. Very few times a rookie gets thrown in the closer role but Kimbrell shown he was ready posting a 0.44 ERA over the final month of last season. This year he has 18 saves in 23 chances with an ERA of 3.38. 

Moving to the AL, the Kansas City Royals actually have something to look forward to in two highly touted prospects. 1B Eric Hosmer was the first to be called up. In 35 games, he looks like the real deal batting .284/.335/.446 with 5 HR and 21 RBI. On the other side of the diamond, new call up Mike Moustakis is already making a splash. He is expected to have a big year after taking over the starting job at 3rd. 

Seattle has a pitcher in Mike Pineda that will add a great one-two punch with Felix Hernandez. He is 6-4 with a 2.72 ERA 1.04 WHIP and hitters are only managing a .208 average against Pineda. 

Tampa has their own phenom pitcher in Jeremy Hellickson. He is 7-4 with a 3.03 ERA 1.16 WHIP and batters are also only hitting .208 against him. Hellickson pitched in 10 games last year, started 4 of them and was 4-0. 

There's a handful of other youngsters you have to look out for that are performing at a high rate for their teams. Starlin Castro of the Cubs, Zach Britton of the Orioles, Anthony Rizzo of the Padres, Brett Wallace and Bud Norris of the Astros, and although he was hurt in a freak collision at the plate, Buster Posey of the Giants is one of the brightest young stars. 

I wasn't sure if I was going to add Stephen Strasburg of the Nationals because of his injury. Who knows how he will bounce back from Tommy John surgery but with his talent, he could be the best pitcher of this generation. The Nats are still well off with Ian Desmond, Danny Espinoza, and Bryce Harper, who has yet to be called up. 

If you were ever worried about the state of baseball after the steroid era, this group of young talent puts those doubts to rest. 

Baseball Considering Realignment?

The latest baseball chatter has discussed the possibility of realignment.  Currently, the leagues are unbalanced, as the National League has 16 teams, and the American League has 14.  The biggest argument for realignment, is that the AL West only has four teams, while the NL Central has six.  Obviously, it appears that a team from the National League would slide over to the American League, and a few proposals have been brought up.

The easiest proposition is moving the Arizona Diamondbacks to the AL West, and moving the Houston Astros to the NL West.   The Houston Astros have also been mentioned as a team to move to the AL West, although outgoing owner Drayton McLane says that the team will not switch leagues.  The question that begs to be answered is, should MLB realign the divisions?

I believe that a little realignment is a good thing.  Major League Baseball is the only major sport that has an uneven number of teams in their conferences.  Obviously moving Arizona or Houston would alleviate that dilemma, although it would construct a few more problems.

When Major League Baseball added the Tampa Bay Devil Rays(now Rays) and the Arizona Diamondbacks to begin play in the 1998 season, the Milwaukee Brewers were shifted to the National League, partly because Bud Selig wanted to avoid having Interleague Play year-round.  An uneven number of teams in each league would make year-round Interleague play an inevitability. 

The MLB front office has also discussed eliminating divisions altogether, and the best five teams from each league advance to the playoffs.  I hate this idea.  It would eliminate the excitement of the pennant chase, and teams could no longer win divisions.  Will teams hoist flags after they finish 5th in the AL?  It makes the regular season even more meaningless.

Another radical idea is radical realignment.  One proposal is a "California" division, in which San Diego, the Dodgers, Angels, Oakland and San Francisco all form one division.  Not a bad idea, but it is a little too weird for me.  Besides, I do not think the Angels would be crazy about switching leagues either.

The easiest proposal is moving Houston to the AL.  They can play in the same division as the Rangers, and form an intrastate rivalry.  Arizona moving would make sense as well. The chances of realignment are about "50/50" according to the commissioners office.  My only request to keep divisions.  This is baseball, not freaking soccer.

Game of the year?

Get your cliche book out. It all comes down to one game. Win or go home. They have to give it 110%. We've heard them all before but for a game 7 for the Stanley Cup, they actually have meaning behind them. The Boston Bruins win game 6 and force the series back to Vancouver where they've played well but are yet to win. 

The way the series has been going back and forth with both teams excelling on their home ice, I'm expecting the game of the year to go down in Vancouver. Everything is telling me to pick the Canucks. They are 3-0 at home in the finals with Roberto Luongo playing lights out (not so much on the road.) They are the aggressor at home, and they seem to be a little faster to the loose puck than the Bruins. But when their back is against the wall, no one plays better than the Boston Bruins. This team has heart oozing out their hockey sweaters. From the fourth line to the first, you can tell everyone is focused and wants the Cup. 

The talking is over, the antics are over, the flopping has to be over, right? It's just talent, heart, and will. May the best team win (and whatever other cliches you can roll out!)

Reality Finally Setting in for the Cleveland Indians

The MLB surprise team for the majority of the spring was the Cleveland Indians. While using virtually smoke and mirrors, the Indians were the best team (record wise) in the AL up until June. Fausto Carmona and little known Josh Tomlin anchored their pitching staff, while Travis Haffner's resurgence sparked the offense. Stars like Shin Soo-Choo, who struggled throughout the year, and Grady Sizemore, more injury issues, gave them barely anything. With their struggling stars, the great play of the Tribe was even more of a shocker.

On our Bicoastal Sports Show podcast, Kevin and I talked about how eventually they will have to come back to Earth and how they haven't yet. Well, up until the last 3 weeks. Since they swept the Cincinnati Reds May 20-22, they are 5-14 and are on the verge of getting swept by the Yankees. They went from being in first by 7 games to now being tied for the lead in the AL Central with the Detroit Tigers.

A lot of publications picked Cleveland to be one of the worst teams in baseball. Kevin and I agreed as well, and Kevin had them losing over 100 games. Finishing at .500 won't get them into the playoffs but it will be considered a good season for the Indians and may give them something to build off of in the future. With their hot start, this looks very capable.

Back on Top, Red Sox are Favorites Once Again

After a 2-10 start, the Red Sox have gone 36-16 and now have the best record in the AL at 38-26. Many fans in Boston called for manager Terry Francona's head, others for hitting coach Dave Magadan's. General Manager Theo Epstein didn't get off lightly, as free agent Carl Crawford started off looking like a huge bust and Adrian Gonzalez, acquired in a trade, lacked power. 

Yes it was only 12 games in but if you know Boston at all you know many fans panic game to game let alone two weeks of abysmal play. How can you blame them with the expectations put on them this year? Almost every media outlet chose the Red Sox as their World Series pick. The way they came out of the chute, I was saying they need to just concentrate on the wild card this year but I'm in the category of "panicking Boston sports fan."

On a current 8 game winning streak, the Red Sox are far from that team that started the season. This looks like the best offense in the league and they back it up with the most runs scored in the AL. Josh Beckett looks 100% healthy and has been dominating. He looks like the Cy Young award front runner. With Jon Lester and Clay Buchholz pitching very well and Tim Wakefield and Jon Lackey consistently keeping the Sox in games, the starting pitching staff is one of the best in baseball. 

Sox have come across a few injuries early. The bullpen has suffered most and has been shaky because of it. Starting Pitcher Daisuke Matszusaka is also gone for the season with Tommy John surgery. If their core of players stay healthy, their depth should overcome bumps in the road here and there injury-wise. 

The season now looks very promising. The new guys, Crawford and Gonzalez, are producing like they should. There's a legit chance Boston fans, myself included, can watch the Red Sox dump champagne over themselves in October. I'll be throwing some cold ones back in my living room, enjoying the season. 

Clippers Notes: Kaman for Iguodala Trade Rumors

The Clippers have engaged in preliminary trade talks with the Philadelphia Sixers in a trade that would send Clips center Chris Kaman to Philly in exchange for swingman Andre Iguodala.  The Clippers appear committed to Deandre Jordan at center, and could use an upgrade on the perimeter.

Kaman dealt with injuries all season, and played in only 32 games in the 2010-11 season.  He averaged 12 points and 7 rebounds.  In the 2009-10 season, Kaman was an all-star as he averaged a career-high 18.7 points.

Iguodala, who will be 28 at the start of next season, averaged 14 points last season, in 62 games.  He has a reputation as a solid defender, and an unselfish player, as he averaged over 6 assists last season.  He would step into the SF position if acquired.

The Warriors are also interested in Iguodala, as rumors are also flying about a Monta Ellis for Iguodala swap.

If the Clippers do get this deal done, it would be an absolute steal.  It would improve their defense, and give the Clippers more talent on the perimeter.  Of course, it is only a rumor, for now.

Rizzo-Mania Begins Thursday!

When the Padres dealt Adrian Gonzalez to the Red Sox in the offseason, the centerpiece of the deal was said to be Casey Kelly.  Padres General Manager Jed Hoyer said that the deal wouldn't get done without Kelly.  One of the other prospects the Padres received was Anthony Rizzo, a promising 1st baseman.

I looked at the 2010 numbers Rizzo had in AA, and wasn't overly impressed.  Last season he popped 20 HR's and hit .263; not bad numbers, but nothing that made you believe that he was the heir apparent to Gonzo.  Then I actually saw the guy play a little, and I was sold.

In a spring game that was televised here in San Diego, Rizzo tore the cover off the ball, and had 4 hits and 7 RBI's.  He looked like a legitimate star-in-waiting.  Rizzo went down to AAA for more seasoning, and looked liked a Little Leaguer with a fake birth certificate.  Through 52 games, Rizzo has a line of .365/.444/.715 with 16 HR's and 63 RBI's.  The guy has been an absolute beast in Tucson.

The Padres decided to finally call up Rizzo, and pump some life into an anemic offense.  The main reason why the Padres waiting so long to promote Rizzo, were concerns over him achieving Super 2 status, which could cost the Padres millions.

Interest is really starting to heat up in Padres baseball.  Padre fans have not had a young position player with this kind of hype in my lifetime.  Rizzo-Mania has captivated the city, and renewed interest in boring Padres baseball.  Is Rizzo worth the hype?  Only time will tell.

Should Luongo Start Game 5 for the Canucks?

In games 1 and 2 Roberto Luongo looked like a brick wall. He faced 66 shots and only let up 2 goals, including a game 1 shut out. He put the Canucks up 2-0 for the series and it looked like Vancouver was going to glide to the Stanley Cup. 

In games 3 and 4 he looked like a mediocre AHL goalie. With a save percentage in the mid 70s, Luongo has let up 12 goals in his last 5+ periods. He was pulled in game four 3 minutes and 39 seconds into the 3rd period. It wasn't the first time he has been replaced by his backup due to a bad performance during the playoffs. He was also replaced during the Chicago Blackhawks series. 

The Canucks have a very serviceable back up in Cory Schneider, who coincidently was born in Massachusetts. He looked real good in the short amount of time he got this playoff series. Made some big saves and I was surprised to see how well he handled the puck for a goaltender. Schneider starting game 5 could be the spark that the Canucks are looking for. 

I think Vancouver will stay with Luongo. You have to stick with what got you to the finals. The Canucks play a lot better at home as well. They have to have a quick hook with him though. If they get down 2-0 in the 1st period expect to see Schneider in net. 

MLB Draft Notes

The second day of the MLB wrapped up today, as teams continue to stockpile their minor league clubs.  While I will not break down every single pick, I will give some analysis on picks I found interesting, as well as a recap of what the Padres and Red Sox did early on.  Here are some of the intriguing first round picks.

1. Pirates-Gerrit Cole, RHP, UCLA:  Cole is like Steven Strasburg-lite, he throws in the high-90's, and has good breaking stuff.  I like the pick, as I think Cole could become a very good MLB pitcher.

2. Mariners-Danny Hultzen, LHP, Virginia:  He had the best season of any college pitcher, and is regarded as the most "polished" pitcher in the draft.  Could be big league ready by 2012.  The pick was a bit of a surprise, as most mock drafts had Anthony Rendon going in this slot.

3. Diamondbacks-Trevor Bauer, RHP, UCLA:  Watching the tape on this guy is scary.  His delivery looks very similar to Tim Linecum, and he hits 95 with his fastball, and has a good curve, and changeup.  I liked what I saw in him.

5. Royals- Bubba Starling, OF, Gardner, Kansas:  A high school athlete, who has a scholarship to play football at Nebraska.  He is said to be a five-tool outfielder that has ridiculous power.  Another gem to add to the farm system Kansas City is building.

6. Nationals-Anthony Rendon , 3B, Rice:  The supposed best hitter in the draft falls all the way to #6.  Has the versatility to play anywhere in the infield.  Has drawn comparisons to Evan Longoria.

Now a look at what the Padres and Sox did early on in the draft.

Padres:  #10:  Cory Spangenberg, 2B, Indian River State JC
              #25:  Joe Ross, RHP, Bishop O'Dowd HS (CA)
              #48:  Michael Kelly, RHP, West Boca Raton HS(FL)
              #54:  Brett Austin, C, Providence SR High(NC)
              #58:  Jace Peterson, SS, McNeese State
              #82:  Austin Hedges, C, Serra HS (CA)
              #203:  Kyle Gaedele, RF, Valparaiso

Cory Spangenberg is a pretty interesting prospect.  He's a Juco player, who used a wooden bat in his games.  Scouts predict that he will hit for a high average, but the jury is out on his power.  He has plus speed, and could be the starting 2B in 2013.  Joe Ross is the younger brother of Oakland A's righty Tyson Ross.  Can touch 95 with his fastball, and features a power curve.  Is committed to pitch at UCLA, so signing him won't come cheaply.  Michael Kelly has a solid frame at 6'5, and has an above average fastball.  Brett Austin is a switch-hitting catcher, who makes solid contact from both sides of the plate.  Couldn't find much on Peterson, but he is a two sport athlete with good speed.  Austin Hedges is said to be a great defensive catcher, and if his bat comes around, he could become a potential all-star.  My favorite pick though is Kyle Gaedele, out of Valparaiso.  He is the great nephew of Eddie Gaedel, the shortest player ever to suit up in a big league game.

Red Sox:  #19:  Matt Barnes, RHP, UCONN
                 #26:  Blake Swihart, C, V Sue Cleveland HS(NM)
                #36:  Henry Owens, LHP, Edison HS(CA)
                #40:  Jackie Bradley, OF, South Carolina
                #81:  Williams Jerez, CF, Grand Street Campus(NY)
                #111:  Jordan Weems, C, Columbus HS (GA)

I really love the Matt Barnes pick here.  In a lesser draft, he might have been the top pitcher, instead the Sox pick him at #19.  His fastball sits between 91-93, and can touch 96.  Scouting reports say he could become a frontline starter.  A switch-hitting catcher, who has above-average power.  He may eventually have to move to a corner outfield slot, but should have the bat to make up for it.  Henry Owens is 6'6 lefty, who has drawn comparisons to Mark Langston.  Fastball sits in the low 90's and a good slider.  Jackie Bradley struggled with the bat this year, and that could be attributed to a wrist injury. Has good power, and good defensive instincts.  Williams Jerez is aa good athlete, who could become a toolsy outfielder with gap-to-gap power.  I could not find much info on Jordan Weems. 

The draft wraps up Wednesday, with rounds 31-50.

Who is getting their first ring, Dirk or LeBron?

Another NBA Finals game and another thrilling outcome. The Mavs pulled out game 4 as much as the Heat lost it, to tie up the series 2-2. LeBron struggled mightily while Dirk gutted out a pretty good game with a 102 temp. He hit a key layup and free throws down the stretch to catapult the Mavs to a win. 

So who wants it more? With the Western Conference being stacked, this could possibly be Dirk Nowitzki's last chance at a ring. It took him seven years to get back to the finals where he lost to the Heat in 2004. He is playing like a man on a mission and a ring could push him into top 50 ever to play the game status. 

Everyone knows how talented LeBron is and he seemed like he was cruising to his first ring earlier in the playoffs. His game 4 struggles have the Heat haters laughing. Because of the preseason antics and the signing of "the 3 kings," anything less than a championship will be considered a failure. LeBron promised not 3, not 4, not 5, not 6, not 7 rings. He needs to step up his game if he wants to get that first one. 

When the series started I liked Heat in 6. Now I feel like it will go 7 and although I still like the Heat, both teams and these 2 superstars can taste victory. I hate the word epic but this series is setting up to be just that. 

Red Sox v Yankees, Still the Best Rivalry

Red Sox vs Yankees hasn't had the luster around here of late like the Bruins/Canadiens, Patriots/Jets or even Celtics/Lakers but it will always be the best rivalry in Boston, maybe even all of sports. The season can drag watching 162 games over the course of 7 months but there's always something about this series that gets me pumped up. Doesn't matter how good or bad either team is doing when they meet, it will always be a game you need to be in front of your TV to watch.

In any given season there are players on both teams that fans can not stand and there's some that will always earn respect even in the rivaled uniform. In my life time I've always hated Yankee punks like Paul O'Neill, Scott Brosius, Jorge Posada and ARod. The Sox that I love like Kevin Youkilis, Dustin Pedroia, Jon Lester, Mike Greenwell, Pedro Martinez and Mo Vaughn are just as hated by the Yanks fans.

You never know what's going to happen. There could be an all out brawl after Joba Chamberlain throws at Youkilis's head again or ARod and Jason Varitek have words for each other. There could be a one hit gem thrown like Pedro or Mike Mussina did. I'm sure we'll see a walk off hit in this series like we have many times. All I know is I'll be watching and I'll be doing so for about 4 hours since that's about how long the games take on average. Get your popcorn ready!!

Canucks Continue to Play Dirty

Stop me if this sounds familiar but should Vancouver Canuck Aaron Rome be suspended? Not sure if it was worse than the Alex Burrows "bite-gate" from game 1 but the end result was. That result being Bruins forward Nathan Horton being carried off in a stretcher.

Half way through the first period the Bs started on a breakaway. Horton was coming down the middle of the ice and passed it to his left just before the blue line. It felt like a 3 count went by before Rome put his shoulder into the chin of Horton. It also looked like Rome left his feet. He received a 5 minute major for interference and a 10 minute game misconduct, which is an automatic ejection. After what happened with Burrows biting the finger of Patrice Bergeron in game 1 and not getting suspended, I don't know how Rome can not get at least a game. After speaking to some Canuck fans via Facebook, all but one "homer" agree it was a cheap shot.

It sickened me to see Horton being taken off in a stretcher over a play that the league is trying to get rid of, but it may be the play that sparked the Bruins. They went on to win 8-1 in a very chippy game. That's the style the Bruins like while Vancouver excels in an open ice, speedy game.

There was some unnecessary antics on the Bruins part, like Milan Lucic trying to force his finger into Burrows mouth and taunting him. Can't say I blame him after watching what has been going on with Vancouver laughing and joking over the "finger" incident. After game 1 you had one the the Sedin twins announcing his line as "Burrows being a vegetarian" and in game 2, Max Lapierre was trying to force his finger in Bergeron's mouth.

The series has been phenomenal and doesn't need these antics to be entertaining. The Bruins admitted it was childish. After the game many players said they got caught up in the moment and are somewhat embarrassed about their actions. Hopefully Vancouver feels the same way. I'd love to see a hard hitting, well fought, clean series that the Bruins pull out in 7 games. Of course I'm seeing that through my black and gold colored glasses.

"Crazy" Superstitious Fans

The Bruins lost game 2 because I changed clothes during the middle of the game. Now I know I have no effect on how the Bruins perform but anything I can do to help the team, at least in my head, I will. I feel like I'm  not in the minority when it comes to this and hopefully I'm not the only "crazy" fan.

Back in 2004 I was with a bunch of friends that watched the Red Sox beat the Yankees in the playoffs to make it 3-1 Yankees. We didn't think the Sox could come back from a 3-0 hole but we had to continue watching the series in the same chairs and the same position we were in during Boston's first win. We all know what happened during the rest of that series and we feel we had a small piece in helping them.

My recent superstitions have been no one in my family, or myself, can wear a Boston sports shirt the day of the game. I've changed my daughter out of a New England Patriots outfit during the middle of a playoff game that my fiancé dressed her in. Needless to say the Pats lost and she heard a word or two about dressing our daughter in that.

 I know athletes have plenty of quirky things they do before games. Wade Boggs use to eat fried chicken. Nomar Garciaparra used to have to touch every step in the dugout with both feet. Almost every pitcher steps over the white chalk of the foul line while walking to or from the mound.

I hope to hear from people about your superstitions as a "crazy" fan. I know it's not just me. I would love to see what fans do to help their teams win. -Justin Adams

Padres vs. Red Sox Draft Comparsions, 2000-Present

With the MLB Draft coming up on Monday, I thought it would be fun to compare my team(Padres) and Justin's team(Red Sox) and see how they compared in the draft the last decade.  The first thing I realized is how much the 2000 draft sucked.  Adrian Gonzalez went #1, Chase Utley went #15, and Adam Wainwright went #29.  Other than that the first round that year stunk.  I will update the progress on each teams 1st rounder (2000-2010) and the best player they took in the draft.

2000:  Padres select LHP Mark Phillips(9th overall):  He never made it to the big leagues, and never got above A ball.  Last surfaced in an independent league, in 2007.  A definite bust.

Red Sox select LHP Phil Dumatrait (22th overall):  Is still in professional baseball, pitching for the Minnesota Twins.  Career record of 3-11 with a 6.84 ERA.  Padres best draft pick:  Xavier Nady, (49th overall) Red Sox:  Freddy Sanchez (332th overall)


2001:  Padres select INF Jake Geutreau(14th overall):  Advanced as far as AAA, but never made the big leagues.  Hasn't played pro ball since 2008.  Bust.  The Red Sox did not have a 1st rounder that year, but did take Kelly Shoppach 44th overall.  Padres best pick:  SS Jason Bartlett (390th overall) Red Sox best pick:  INF Kevin Youkilis (243rd overall)

2002:  Padres select SS Khalil Greene(13th overall):  Probably the best first rounder the Padres I have seen in my lifetime.(not saying much.)  Drove in 97 runs in 2007, and finished second in the Rookie of the Year Voting in 2004.  Now out of baseball, due to anxiety issues.  Not quite a bust.  Again the Sox did not have a 1st rounder, but grabbed the great Jon Lester 57th overall.  They also drafted Ricky Romero in the 37th round, but he didn't sign.  Padres best pick:  Greene.  Red Sox best pick:  Lester.

2003:  Padres draft RHP Tim Stauffer(4th overall):  Looked like a bust after a few years, but has turned himself into a good pitcher,even starting Opening Day this year.  Red Sox draft OF David Murphy(17th overall).  He wasn't in Boston long, as he was part of the Eric Gagne deal.  Hit 17 HR's in 2009.  Padres best pick: Stauffer.  Red Sox best pick:  RHP John Papelbon(114th overall). 

2004:  Padres draft SS/RHP Matt Bush(1st overall):  One of the worst picks ever. Hit .219 in his minor league career as a shortstop, and owns a pitiful .929 fielding percentage.  Now a pitcher in the Rays organization, he has an ERA over seven in AA.  Red Sox didn't have a 1st rounder in '04, but nabbed Dustin Pedroia with their first pick.  All he's done is win an MVP.  Padres best pick:  1B Kyle Blanks(1241st overall).  Red Sox best pick:  Pedroia.

2005:  Padres draft RHP Cesar Carrillo(18th overall). Looked like he was going to be the real deal, but arm injuries ruined him.  Has a career record of 1-2 and a 13.04 ERA in three big league starts.  Sox draft OF Jacoby Ellsbury(23th overall).  Has become a dynamic leadoff hitter, and could be headed towards his first All Star game.  The Sox also got Clay Buchholz and Jed Lowrie in this draft.  Padres best pick:  3B Chase Headley(66th overall).  Red Sox best pick:  Ellsbury.

2006:  Padres draft INF Matt Antonelli(17th overall).   Yet another failed Padres draft pick.  In his only taste of big league action he hit .191 in 2008.  Now with the Washington organization.  Red Sox draft OF Jason Place(26th overall) and Daniel Bard(27th overall).  Jason Place hasn't worked out, as he is now in the Yankees organization, and owns a .233 career average in the minors.  Daniel Bard is an integral part of the Sox bullpen, and could be the closer in 2012.

2007:  Padres draft Nick Schmidt(23rd overall) He is still in the Padres organization, but hasn't pitched past A ball.  Still has a chance, but he has failed to impress.  The Red Sox didn't draft in the 1st round, and top pick, LHP is now in the Cleveland organization.  The Sox also drafted Anthony Rizzo, who is the Padres top prospect.  Its too early to rank the best players in the draft from here on out.

2008:  Padres draft 1B Allen Dyksta(23rd overall).  Dykstra is another disappointment, as her never became the power threat he was supposed to.  Is now in the Mets organization.  Red Sox draft SS Casey Kelly(30th overall).  Casey Kelly was converted into a pitcher, and is now a top prospect in the Padres system.

2009:  Padres draft OF Donavan Tate(3rd overall). Has been hampered by injuries, so the jury is still out on him.  Received a $6.25 million bonus, a Padres record.  Red Sox draft OF Reymond Fuentes(28th overall).  Fuentes is a speedy outfielder, who was a part of the Adrian Gonzalez deal, along with Casey Kelly and Anthony Rizzo.

2010:  Padres select RHP Karsten Whitson(9th overall).  Whitson never signed with the Padres, and is now pitching at Florida.  The Padres have an unprotected 10th pick as compensation for failing to sign him.  Red Sox draft 2B Koltin Vitek.  Vitek is currently playing in high A ball, hitting .280 with 0 HRs.


It is easy to see why the Sox have been so successful, they have just murdered the small market Padres.  The Sox have been successful in the draft, and the Padres have butchered it.  The most critical draft in Padres history is this Monday.





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MLB Draft Preview

The MLB Draft doesn't have the compelling components that make the NFL Draft so popular, but the MLB Draft is just as important.  Sure, none of the names are very recognizable, and the players drafted won't crack a big league roster for a few years.  However, great teams are built through the draft, and the first and supplemental rounds kick off tomorrow.  First, here are a few draft notes.

• The San Diego Padres, Milwaukee Brewers, and Arizona Diamondbacks have two first round picks, because they failed to sign their first rounders last year.
• Tampa Bay has three first rounders, their own pick, plus compensation picks for losing Carl Crawford and Rafael Soriano.  Tampa Bay has 11 of the first 89 picks.
• The Padres and Blue Jays each have 5 picks before the second round.

With that being said, lets take a look at few of the names that should be called on early: 

• Gerrit Cole, RHP, UCLA:  He's 6'4, and is your prototypical power pitcher.  His fastball sits in the mid 90's but can hit 100 at times. Was drafted in 2008 by the Yankees, but signed with UCLA.  Could be the #1 pick on Monday.

• Anthony Rendon, 3B, Rice:  Is a little small for a typical 3rd baseman, at 5'11 and 190 lbs, but is regarded as a five-tool talent.  Scouts love his bat speed, and his defensive ability is second to none.  Shouldn't fall out of the top 5.
• Danny Hultzen, LHP, Virginia:  Has a pretty solid repertoire of pitches for such a young player.  Has an above average fastball that sits at 89-93, a good slider and a changeup, and has elite command of his pitches.  Is rumored to want a $13 million bonus, which could hurt his stock.  Shouldn't last past the fifth pick.
• Bubba Starling, OF, Gardner, Kansas:  He has a scholarship on the table to play quarterback at Nebraska, although a pricey bonus will likely point him towards baseball.  He's 6'5 and 200 lbs, and has been clocked in the 40 at 4.36.  His best tool is his power, which is supposed to be out of this world.  His name is shooting up draft boards.

• Some other names to know:  RHP Dylan Bundy, RHP Matt Barnes, SS Francisco Lindor, RHP Trevor Bauer, INF Levi Michael, OF George Bradley.

This draft is considered one of the deepest in years, especially in the pitching department.

Should Alex Burrows have been Suspended?

In the midst of a scrum at the end of the first period in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals, it looks like Vancouver's Alex Burrows bit the index finger of Boston's Patrice Bergeron. There is video evidence to back this up yet Burrows is allowed to play the next game as he avoids suspension. Burrows spoke with NHL's league senior vice president who said there was nothing backing up that Burrows did it on purpose.

Do I think he did it on purpose? Yes. Is it a punk move? Absolutely. Should he have been suspended? No. It's the Stanley Cup Finals and you want the game to be decided by the players on the ice rather than officials or commissioners. If it happened in January in the middle of the regular season he would be suspended. I feel it would warrant a multiple game suspension.

Look for the Bruins to come out very aggressive in Game 2 and someone like Milan Lucic or Nathan Horton give him a hard shot right from the get go. I like the chance that the Bruins get to take care of business on the ice instead of Burrows having to sit out a game. From what was already an interesting series, it's only going to get better.

World Baseball Classic Expands

The WBC is expanding to 28 teams starting in 2012. As a baseball fan, you have to be happy with the chance of baseball thriving world wide. The numbers of kids joining in America has been down of late due to interest in other sports, the rising cost of "Little League" and other circumstances. Maybe this will peak interest and resurrect the game a little bit.

The 12 new nations joining are Israel, Thailand, France, Brazil, Colombia, The Czech Republic, Germany, Great Britain, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Philippines, and Spain. There will be a qualifying round in the fall of 2012 with the 12 new teams and the 4 teams that didn't win a game in 2009 (Russia, Taiwan, Canada, Panama.) The winners move on to play for the championship, joining the other nations in the WBC in March of 2013.

As a fan, my only hangup of the WBC is that it takes place before the start of the MLB season. When players are used to preparing in spring training, they instead have to gear up to play in games that mean something and give 100%. There has been issues of injuries and fatigue from the added workload from previous Classics. I hope in the future the games can be played mid season or after the World Series to help prevent injuries.

Dice-K opting for Tommy John Surgery

Daisuke Matsuzaka, who has been on the DL since May 18th, decided to get season ending Tommy John surgery after seeking a second opinion from a doctor in Japan. The Red Sox feel he can be treated without surgery.

Dice-K signed a 6yr/$52 mil contract in the 2006 offseason and may have pitched his last game since the injury can sideline him all of next year too. He won 33 games his first 2 years but has been a bust overall, piling up walks, a hefty ERA and DL visits. In his last 3 years his ERA/WHIP totals are 5.76/1.87, 4.69/1.37 and 5.30/1.47.

My take on Matsuzaka is he is brutal to watch. He takes forever to pitch and nibbles at the corners instead of going at hitters. He did not come as advertised. Where was the 95 mph fastball? Where was the gyroball? Where was this competitor that wanted the ball to finish games, no matter how many pitches he needed to throw? Dice-K will not be missed.

In the short term, Tim Wakefield is taking his place in the rotation. I believe a prospect like Felix Dubront or someone like an Aaron Harrang at the trade deadline will eventually take over that 5th starter role. The Sox recently signed Kevin Millwood to a minor league contract and he has an outside shot at taking that spot over as well.

A Great 19 Year Career for Shaq

Shaquille O'Neal is ready to hang up his 21 EEE shoes after 19 terrific years in the NBA. In the mediocre years following Jordan's retirement, Shaq brought back interest in the NBA. His personality is as big as he is and he could back it up with his play.

Shaq's (aka The Big Diesel,  The Big Aristotle, Superman, The Big Shaqtus among others) dominance at the center position hasn't been seen since the likes of Russell, Chamberlain, and Kareem. He has won an MVP, multiple Finals and All Star MVPs and is a 4 time champion. In the 1999-00 season he won all of those awards. He has the 5th most points scored (28,596) 4th most in the playoffs (5,280) 2nd most All Star selections (15) and the most 20 point/10 rebound seasons (13) in NBA history.

With the talent off the court to match, he's starred in 3 movies, probably Kazaam being his most popular role. He put out 4 rap albums. One went gold and one went platinum. His most famous song probably was "What's up Doc? (Can We Rock)" a song he appeared in by the Fu-Schnikens which also went gold.

In his prime, he was probably the 4th best player I saw live, behind Jordan, Bird and Magic. Coaches had to come up with a whole different game plan for him. It was labeled the Hack-a-Shaq as free throws was his kryptonite and only weakness to his game.

Kevin's MLB Surprises and Award Winners

We are two months into the 2011 MLB, and there are some things that should surprise no one.  After a slow start, the Red Sox are in first place.  The Phillies rule the East, and Roy Halladay has been just as good as advertised, however there have been many surprises.  Some teams have been better than expected, and other individual athletes have shined.  Lets take a look at some of the surprise performers.

Suprises:  Arizona Diamondbacks (30-25) I picked the D'backs to lose 96 games before the year.  I figured they had some decent offensive players, but lacked pitching.  Well, the bullpen is one of the biggest reasons the team sits atop the National League West.  J.J. Putz has been flawless as the closer, and Rule 5 pick Joe Paterson, and Daniel Hernandez have fortified the backend of the bullpen.  There is no reason why the D'backs cannot contend all year.

Cleveland Indians (32-20) Again, I picked the Indians to crash and burn this season, but they have built a sizeable lead in the AL Central.  Justin Masterson and Josh Tomlin have been a revelation this season, and Grady Sizemore is back from knee surgery.  Cleveland could win the AL Central this year.

Florida Marlins (31-22) The Marlins are the Wild-Card leader, and Hanley Ramirez is hitting .210.  However Gaby Sanchez, and Logan Morrison are having great seasons.  Throw in young slugger Mike Stanton, and this team could be scary for years to come.  Anibal Sanchez has been tremendous, and they have a legitimate #1 in Josh Johnson, when healthy.

AL MVP:  Jose Bautista, Toronto Blue Jays.  The Jays are only one game over .500, but Bautista's numbers are simply too amazing to ignore.  He has a slash line of .356/.502/.791.  The guy has 20 bombs, and could win the Triple Crown.  He has 46 walks, and 28 strikeouts.  He is unreal.

NL MVP:  Ryan Braun, Milwaukee Brewers.  The National League wasn't as easy to pick someone, as I considered Jay Bruce among others, but Braun is my pick.  He could become a 30/30 guy, and he has an OPS of exactly 1.000.  He also leads the NL in runs.

AL Cy Young:  James Shields, Tampa Bay Rays.  Shields has rebounded from an awful 2010, and is my pick for the Cy Young.  He's among the league leaders in ERA with 2.15, and innings with 83.2 innings.  He leads the AL in complete games, shutouts, and strikeouts.

NL Cy Young:  Tim Lincecum, San Francisco.  Ignore his 5-4 record, the Giants are a pitiful offensive club, but Timmy has been as dominant as ever.  He has an ERA of 2.22, and is striking out more than a batter an inning.  Timmy could have his third Cy Young before the age of 30.

AL ROY:  Michael Pineda, Seattle Mariners:  Pineda has been one of the best pitchers in the league, rookie or veteran. He is 6-2 with a 2.42 ERA, and he is averaging 9.4 K's per nine innings.

NL ROY:  Craig Kimbrel, Atlanta Braves.  Kimbrel has been solid as the closer for the Braves, with 15 saves, and he leads the NL in games finished with 23.  He has blown four, but rookies aren't often thrust into the closer role, and he has handled it just fine.