Actress Sandra Oh and New Jersey Nets' PF Josh Boone
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Separated at Birth?
Toronto Raptors' SF Shawn Marion and former Johns Hopkins Blue Jays' SP Ryan McConnell
Saturday, February 21, 2009
My Three Biggest Sports Pet Peeves
Sports Pet Peeve #1: In-game interviews of head coaches. I can tolerate coaches being interviewed at halftime (to a certain degree), but what is the purpose of interviewing a coach during the course of a game?
Let me make sure I have this straight. It would be a good idea for a coach to divulge strategy or provide analysis during a game so the opposing team can know what he is thinking? How does that make sense? It's infuriating and completely nonsensical. These coaches get berated by the media for hours before and hours after the game. Leave them alone during the game. I beg you.
Note: This applies specifically to hockey (NBC) and baseball (Fox / ESPN).
#2: Detailing the score of a game by using the losing team's score first. An example: "The Dodgers lost to the Mets three to seven." No, the Dodgers lost to the Mets seven to three. It's not a difficult concept. Higher score followed by lower score.
Let me make sure I have this straight. It would be a good idea for a coach to divulge strategy or provide analysis during a game so the opposing team can know what he is thinking? How does that make sense? It's infuriating and completely nonsensical. These coaches get berated by the media for hours before and hours after the game. Leave them alone during the game. I beg you.
Note: This applies specifically to hockey (NBC) and baseball (Fox / ESPN).
#2: Detailing the score of a game by using the losing team's score first. An example: "The Dodgers lost to the Mets three to seven." No, the Dodgers lost to the Mets seven to three. It's not a difficult concept. Higher score followed by lower score.
Note: This does not apply to sports with sets (tennis, volleyball, etc) as it would be impossible to determine which team / player won which sets by using the rules outlined above. So, saying Serena Williams beat Venus Williams 6-2, 3-6, 7-5 would be necessary and perfectly acceptable.
3: Unwarranted excessive celebration penalties after touchdowns. I understand offenses such as the "slitting the throat" gesture and taunting opponents, but the NFL and NCAA need to relax the illegalities of certain celebrations.
A touchdown typically results from perfect execution after hours of film study and practice. Why do these governing bodies find the need to prohibit choreographed celebrations with teammates? God forbid a player share in the happiness with others who helped him arrive in the end zone.
Friday, February 20, 2009
O-Dog, Oh No
It appears the Los Angeles Dodgers are on the verge of signing 2B Orlando Hudson to a bargain basement deal, 1 year / $3.4m plus incentives. I'm not sure which is more stunning: the fact that Hudson came so cheaply or the fact that the New York Mets couldn't offer a better deal.
As I wrote a few days back, the Mets are relying on an aging, borderline decrepit, Luis Castillo to man second base and possibly lead off.
Omar, what's the story?
As I wrote a few days back, the Mets are relying on an aging, borderline decrepit, Luis Castillo to man second base and possibly lead off.
Omar, what's the story?
MLB - Win Totals
Vegas has set the win over / under lines for the 2009 MLB season. Here are my picks.
Best Bets
Arizona- 86.5 Under: How is this team going to score enough runs to win? Brandon Webb and Dan Haren can only do so much.
Cleveland- 83 Over: As mentioned here, I think they are on their way to the World Series.
Florida- 75.5 Over: The Fish won 84 games last season, lost no primetime players (Mike Jacobs, Josh Willingham, Scott Olsen are all replaceable) and their pitchers now have some experience.
LA Dodgers- 84.5 Over: Once they sign Manny, this number will jump to 88.
Oakland- 81.5 Over: One arm away from 90 wins.
Philadelphia- 87.5 Over: No respect. Not sure why.
Other Overs
Atlanta- 84.5
Baltimore- 74.5
Chicago White Sox- 76.5
Cincinnati- 76.5
Detroit- 79.5
Kansas City- 75.5
Minnesota- 79.5
NY Mets- 90.5
NY Yankees- 96
Pittsburgh- 66.5
San Francisco- 77.5
Seattle- 72.5
St. Louis- 83.5
Tampa Bay- 89.5
Texas- 81.5
Other Unders
Boston- 94.5
Chicago Cubs- 94.5
Colorado- 76.5
Houston- 74.5
LA Angels- 87.5
Milwaukee- 85.5
San Diego- 67.5
Toronto- 81.5
Washington- 68.5
Best Bets
Arizona- 86.5 Under: How is this team going to score enough runs to win? Brandon Webb and Dan Haren can only do so much.
Cleveland- 83 Over: As mentioned here, I think they are on their way to the World Series.
Florida- 75.5 Over: The Fish won 84 games last season, lost no primetime players (Mike Jacobs, Josh Willingham, Scott Olsen are all replaceable) and their pitchers now have some experience.
LA Dodgers- 84.5 Over: Once they sign Manny, this number will jump to 88.
Oakland- 81.5 Over: One arm away from 90 wins.
Philadelphia- 87.5 Over: No respect. Not sure why.
Other Overs
Atlanta- 84.5
Baltimore- 74.5
Chicago White Sox- 76.5
Cincinnati- 76.5
Detroit- 79.5
Kansas City- 75.5
Minnesota- 79.5
NY Mets- 90.5
NY Yankees- 96
Pittsburgh- 66.5
San Francisco- 77.5
Seattle- 72.5
St. Louis- 83.5
Tampa Bay- 89.5
Texas- 81.5
Other Unders
Boston- 94.5
Chicago Cubs- 94.5
Colorado- 76.5
Houston- 74.5
LA Angels- 87.5
Milwaukee- 85.5
San Diego- 67.5
Toronto- 81.5
Washington- 68.5
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Heyman and I Don't See Eye-to-Eye
It has become pretty evident that Jon Heyman and I agree on very few issues. In a recent article, he graded each team's winter moves. I have a few bones to pick.
Heyman's Top 10 "Winners"
Phillies (1): As Heyman alludes to, the Phillies signed Cole Hamels and Ryan Howard to long-term deals. However, barring a trade, these two had no way out of Philadelphia as the team controlled their arbitration years anyway. They weren't going anywhere. The Phils other "big move" - signing 36-year old Raul Ibanez to a three-year, $30 million deal - now looks laughable. This team did not improve that much to warrant the #1 ranking. Ruben Amaro gets a B from me in his first winter as GM.
Mets (2): Sure, the Mets added K-Rod and JJ Putz to help mend a shredded bullpen, but they failed to add any difference-making starters. No, Tim Redding and Freddy Garcia do not qualify. I won't even get started on the ageless Livan Hernandez signing. They also did not address the hole at second base. Luis Castillo will not cut it. Omar Minaya gets a B- from me.
Yankees (3): Any of these lists that does not have the Yankees at the top should be discarded immediately. CC Sabathia, AJ Burnett, and Mark Teixeira in one winter? Unreal. Brian Cashman gets an A+ here.
A's (4): I've detailed Oakland's moves ad nauseam in past posts, but I love the Holliday deal. Billy Beane gets an A.
Diamondbacks (5): Arizona lost Adam Dunn, Orlando Hudson, and Brandon Lyon and will probably watch Juan Cruz depart via free agency. They must have signed someone or many someones to compensate, right? Heyman ranks the D'backs this high because, "Jon Garland gives them a solid No. 3 starter." Is this some sort of joke? How does that equation yield a positive result? Aside from the fact that Garland has a career WHIP around 1.4 and averages about 4.5 K's/9, the team failed to add anyone else of note. Josh Byrnes gets a D from me.
Rays (6): No arguments here as they added Pat Burrell at a reasonable price and did not lose anyone of note. Andrew Friedman gets a B-.
Giants (7): Stop me when you hear the name of an impact player: Juan Uribe, Rich Aurilia, Edgar Renteria (I said impact not intact), Bobby Howry, Jeremy Affeldt, Randy Johnson. I heard crickets until RJ's name and he'll be 45 years old on Opening Day. Brian Sabean gets a C-, and that's only because he didn't trade Tim Lincecum.
Braves (8): They overspent for Derek Lowe but traded no Major League-ready prospects for Javier Vazquez. Frank Wren gets a B.
Red Sox (9): Again, no arguments as they signed Dustin Pedroia and Kevin Youkilis to long-term deals and bought a number of low-risk, high-reward free agents. Theo Epstein gets a B-.
White Sox (10): They lost Vazquez, Nick Swisher and Orlando Cabrera and added no one of note. Kenny Williams gets a C.
Banter's Top 10 "Winners"
1. Yankees
2. A's
3. Braves
4. Cubs: Added Milton Bradley and Kevin Gregg.
5. Indians: Added Kerry Wood, Mark DeRosa and took a flier on Carl Pavano.
6. Orioles: Locked up Nick Markakis and Brian Roberts to long-term deals. Dished out no palm-to-the-forehead deals which means a lot in Baltimore.
7. Mariners: Improved the defense and lost Type A free agent Ibanez meaning they get a first round pick as compensation.
8. Phillies
9. Rockies: They can't afford Holliday so getting Huston Street, Greg Smith and Carlos Gonzalez is a decent return.
10. Mets
Heyman's Top 10 "Winners"
Phillies (1): As Heyman alludes to, the Phillies signed Cole Hamels and Ryan Howard to long-term deals. However, barring a trade, these two had no way out of Philadelphia as the team controlled their arbitration years anyway. They weren't going anywhere. The Phils other "big move" - signing 36-year old Raul Ibanez to a three-year, $30 million deal - now looks laughable. This team did not improve that much to warrant the #1 ranking. Ruben Amaro gets a B from me in his first winter as GM.
Mets (2): Sure, the Mets added K-Rod and JJ Putz to help mend a shredded bullpen, but they failed to add any difference-making starters. No, Tim Redding and Freddy Garcia do not qualify. I won't even get started on the ageless Livan Hernandez signing. They also did not address the hole at second base. Luis Castillo will not cut it. Omar Minaya gets a B- from me.
Yankees (3): Any of these lists that does not have the Yankees at the top should be discarded immediately. CC Sabathia, AJ Burnett, and Mark Teixeira in one winter? Unreal. Brian Cashman gets an A+ here.
A's (4): I've detailed Oakland's moves ad nauseam in past posts, but I love the Holliday deal. Billy Beane gets an A.
Diamondbacks (5): Arizona lost Adam Dunn, Orlando Hudson, and Brandon Lyon and will probably watch Juan Cruz depart via free agency. They must have signed someone or many someones to compensate, right? Heyman ranks the D'backs this high because, "Jon Garland gives them a solid No. 3 starter." Is this some sort of joke? How does that equation yield a positive result? Aside from the fact that Garland has a career WHIP around 1.4 and averages about 4.5 K's/9, the team failed to add anyone else of note. Josh Byrnes gets a D from me.
Rays (6): No arguments here as they added Pat Burrell at a reasonable price and did not lose anyone of note. Andrew Friedman gets a B-.
Giants (7): Stop me when you hear the name of an impact player: Juan Uribe, Rich Aurilia, Edgar Renteria (I said impact not intact), Bobby Howry, Jeremy Affeldt, Randy Johnson. I heard crickets until RJ's name and he'll be 45 years old on Opening Day. Brian Sabean gets a C-, and that's only because he didn't trade Tim Lincecum.
Braves (8): They overspent for Derek Lowe but traded no Major League-ready prospects for Javier Vazquez. Frank Wren gets a B.
Red Sox (9): Again, no arguments as they signed Dustin Pedroia and Kevin Youkilis to long-term deals and bought a number of low-risk, high-reward free agents. Theo Epstein gets a B-.
White Sox (10): They lost Vazquez, Nick Swisher and Orlando Cabrera and added no one of note. Kenny Williams gets a C.
Banter's Top 10 "Winners"
1. Yankees
2. A's
3. Braves
4. Cubs: Added Milton Bradley and Kevin Gregg.
5. Indians: Added Kerry Wood, Mark DeRosa and took a flier on Carl Pavano.
6. Orioles: Locked up Nick Markakis and Brian Roberts to long-term deals. Dished out no palm-to-the-forehead deals which means a lot in Baltimore.
7. Mariners: Improved the defense and lost Type A free agent Ibanez meaning they get a first round pick as compensation.
8. Phillies
9. Rockies: They can't afford Holliday so getting Huston Street, Greg Smith and Carlos Gonzalez is a decent return.
10. Mets
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Trades That Make Sense
NBA Variety
Orlando sends Brian Cook, Adonal Foyle, Mike Wilks, Martin Gorat and a 2009 1st Round Pick to Oklahoma City for Earl Watson
The Magic would get a dependable point guard in Watson to compensate for the season-ending injury of Jameer Nelson. A starting five of Dwight Howard-Hedo Turkoglu-Rashard Lewis-Mikael Pietrus-Watson can certainly compete for the Eastern Conference crown.
The Thunder would add about $6m of salaries set to expire at the end of the year and another 1st Round pick.
MLB Variety
Washington sends 1B Nick Johnson to San Francisco for LHP Noah Lowry
The Nationals have a glut of first basemen but lack any depth in their rotation while the Giants have an abundance of number four / five starters without any proven corner infielders. The deal seems to work for both teams.
Orlando sends Brian Cook, Adonal Foyle, Mike Wilks, Martin Gorat and a 2009 1st Round Pick to Oklahoma City for Earl Watson
The Magic would get a dependable point guard in Watson to compensate for the season-ending injury of Jameer Nelson. A starting five of Dwight Howard-Hedo Turkoglu-Rashard Lewis-Mikael Pietrus-Watson can certainly compete for the Eastern Conference crown.
The Thunder would add about $6m of salaries set to expire at the end of the year and another 1st Round pick.
MLB Variety
Washington sends 1B Nick Johnson to San Francisco for LHP Noah Lowry
The Nationals have a glut of first basemen but lack any depth in their rotation while the Giants have an abundance of number four / five starters without any proven corner infielders. The deal seems to work for both teams.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
World Series Odds - Breakdown
Your team can win the World Series if....
On Second Thought, There's No Chance
Arizona Diamondbacks 30/1; Baltimore Orioles 150/1; Chicago White Sox 25/1 ; Cincinnati Reds 50/1; Colorado Rockies 60/1; Houston Astros 40/1; Kansas City Royals 150/1; Milwaukee Brewers 35/1; Minnesota Twins 25/1; Pittsburgh Pirates 200/1; San Diego Padres 200/1; San Francisco Giants 40/1; Seattle Mariners 100/1; Toronto Blue Jays 60/1; Washington Nationals 150/1
If one of these teams comes close, I'd be shocked.
Just Not Worth It
If these teams can survive a brutal regular season, they will still have to win three arduous playoff series.
No, For One Major Reason
Chicago Cubs 7/1: If they can overcome the curse, the North Siders will be ecstatic.
Philadelphia Phillies 11/1: If they can repeat, they would be the first since the 1999-2000 Yankees.
Decent Value
Great Value
Atlanta Braves 35/1: If Jeff Francoeur can bounce back and Chipper Jones can stay healthy, the Braves can take the NL East. If they do that, Derek Lowe and Javier Vazquez provide a nice 1-2 punch in a playoff series.
Florida Marlins 40/1: If the Marlins young pitching staff takes strikes to deliver upon high expectations, they can surprise some people.
St Louis Cardinals 30/1: If the Cubs falter, Albert Pujols can carry this team on his back.
Texas Rangers 60/1: If the Rangers can add two arms through their farm system or free agency, the offense can compete with anyone.
The Contenders
On Second Thought, There's No Chance
Arizona Diamondbacks 30/1; Baltimore Orioles 150/1; Chicago White Sox 25/1 ; Cincinnati Reds 50/1; Colorado Rockies 60/1; Houston Astros 40/1; Kansas City Royals 150/1; Milwaukee Brewers 35/1; Minnesota Twins 25/1; Pittsburgh Pirates 200/1; San Diego Padres 200/1; San Francisco Giants 40/1; Seattle Mariners 100/1; Toronto Blue Jays 60/1; Washington Nationals 150/1
If one of these teams comes close, I'd be shocked.
Just Not Worth It
Boston Red Sox 15/2; New York Yankees 5/2; Tampa Bay Rays 12/1
If these teams can survive a brutal regular season, they will still have to win three arduous playoff series.
No, For One Major Reason
Chicago Cubs 7/1: If they can overcome the curse, the North Siders will be ecstatic.
Philadelphia Phillies 11/1: If they can repeat, they would be the first since the 1999-2000 Yankees.
Decent Value
Detroit Tigers 20/1: If they get offensive contributions from players other than Miguel Cabrera and if Carlos Guillen, Justin Verlander, and Jeremy Bonderman are healthy, they have a shot.
Los Angeles Angels 11/1: If they have a cake-walk into the postseason, anything can happen.
Great Value
Atlanta Braves 35/1: If Jeff Francoeur can bounce back and Chipper Jones can stay healthy, the Braves can take the NL East. If they do that, Derek Lowe and Javier Vazquez provide a nice 1-2 punch in a playoff series.
Florida Marlins 40/1: If the Marlins young pitching staff takes strikes to deliver upon high expectations, they can surprise some people.
St Louis Cardinals 30/1: If the Cubs falter, Albert Pujols can carry this team on his back.
Texas Rangers 60/1: If the Rangers can add two arms through their farm system or free agency, the offense can compete with anyone.
The Contenders
Oakland Athletics 55/1: If they can add an arm, their revamped offense will make them a serious threat.
Los Angeles Dodgers 17/1: If they sign Manny, they become the favorite in NL West.
New York Mets 7/1: If the starting pitching can hold up, there's no reason they cannot win the National League pennant.
The One
Cleveland Indians 25/1: If Fausto Carmona can bounce back and Carl Pavano gives them any positive contributions I love Cleveland's chances. At 25-1, they represent the best value on the board. And yes, I realize I am counting on that Carl Pavano.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
MLB - Odds to Win Division
A mere 12 hours after the Banter's Bobby Abreu bashing, oddsmakers unveiled the odds to win each Major League division. And wouldn't you know it, the Angels open up as the largest favorite in any division (-220). One man's way too early breakdown:
AL West: Angels -220; A's +300; Rangers +600; Mariners +1200
This division reminds me of the 2004 election. Did 51% of the country really want another four years of President Bush? Probably not. More likely, many of the voters simply opted not-Kerry. Betting on the Angels would be akin to voting not-Kerry. I'm not ready to go down that path again (yes, I voted for Bush in '04).
Sure, the Angels won the division by 20 games last year, but loyal readers know how dismayed I am with their off season efforts. Complacency does not breed division champions - unless your manager is Bobby Cox. I strongly believe the A's are just one player away from taking this division. Brad Pitt, err, Billy Beane make me look smart.
Pick: A's +300.
AL Central: Twins +175; Indians +200; White Sox +400; Tigers +400; Royals +1500
This division looks ripe for the picking, and the Indians seem most likely to take advantage.
The division favorite Twins have not added or lost any significant players this off season. Apparently, owner Carl Pohlad decided to cut costs and give the entire front office a four-month vacation.
The White Sox lost Javier Vazquez, Nick Swisher, Orlando Cabrera, Joe Crede and Ken Griffey, Jr. To compensate, they added... well, some spare parts (Wilson Betemit, Bartolo Colon).
The Tigers, coming off an uber-disappointing last place finish, made some minor changes such as replacing Edgar Renteria with Adam Everett (please, contain your excitement).
The Royals are the Royals.
That leaves us with the Indians who finished 2008 with a .500 record despite dealing CC Sabathia before the deadline. They revamped the bullpen with guys like sidewinder Joe Smith and fireballer Kerry Wood. The Indians also added Mark DeRosa who was disposed of by the Cubs for a reason unbeknown to most. The team underachieved last season and seems poised to take this division running away this season.
Pick: Indians +200.
AL East: Yankees -125; Red Sox +175; Rays +400; Blue Jays +1500; Orioles +4000
Talk all you want about the A-Rod distraction, lack of chemistry, and questionable health of some key contributors (Chien-Ming Wang, Jorge Posada), but the Yankees are clearly the team to beat. Wang, who sports a 54-20 career record, will be the team's third starter. No team in baseball can compete with the Sabathia-Burnett-Wang troika.
Pick: As much as it pains me, Yankees -125.
NL West: Dodgers +140; D'backs +160; Giants +500; Rockies +600; Padres +2000
Once the Dodgers sign Manny Ramirez, these odds will drop to -125. Don't wait. Jump on the Dodgers now. They have no competition.
If anyone wants to take the D'backs at +160, forget Vegas, and place your bets with the Banter. This team was decimated during the off season. They lost Randy Johnson, Orlando Hudson, Juan Cruz (presumably), Banter-favorite Adam Dunn, and Brandon Lyon. They took fliers on Tom Gordon - yes, "Flash" - Jon Garland, Scott Schoeneweis, and Felipe Lopez which wouldn't have been bad if the year were 2003. This will be a long, long season in the desert.
If you are a Giants' fan, I have some good news: Tim Lincecum will be your Opening Day starter. After that, things get murky. The front office failed to address the glaring need: offense. The Giants scored the second-fewest runs in the Majors last season. Signing Edgar Renteria won't do much to help.
The Rockies would intrigue me a whole lot more if not for the following three matters:
1. Aaron Cook is their #1 starter;
2. They traded their best player, Matt Holliday; and
3. Jeff Francis faces season-ending surgery.
Case closed.
As my mother often told me, "if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all." (Thinking.... thinking... Got it!) San Diego is a beautiful city. I was always a momma's boy.
Pick: Dodgers +140.
NL Central: Cubs -160; Brewers +500; Cardinals +600; Reds +600; Astros +1300; Pirates +3000
The Brewers lost CC Sabathia and Ben Sheets leaving Dave Bush to be the team's second starter.
The Reds are MLB's version of the NFL's Detroit Lions. Never interesting, often terrible, and just plain blah. They are a difficult team to get excited about.
The 'stros overachieved last season and figure to regress towards the mean.
The Pirates have a beautiful stadium (thanks, Mom).
That leaves the Cubs and Cards as the only two teams that have a chance of winning this division. Chicago won the division last season by seven games and made only minor changes. They figure to win about 92-94 games. Can St. Louis win more than that? Doubtful, but at +600, I'll take my chances. They have the best hitter in baseball (Albert Pujols) and an ace in Adam Wainwright. I'm also bullish on the idea of Skip Schumaker playing second base.
Pick: Cardinals +600.
NL East: Mets +130; Phillies +160; Braves +450; Marlins +600; Nationals +6000
Both East divisions figure to be very competitive throughout the season. The NL East has four teams capable of winning the division.
The defending Wold Series champion Phillies essentially swapped Raul Ibanez for Pat Burrell. The thing that concerns me with this team is the health of Cole Hamels. He threw the most pitches of any Major Leaguer last season. Can he repeat?
The Mets addressed their most glaring weakness, the bullpen, but failed to add an impact starter (although, they did retain Olly Perez). Will it be enough?
The Braves lost John Smoltz but added Derek Lowe and Javier Vazquez. If Chipper can stay healthy, a big "if," Atlanta can stay competitive.
The Marlins provide a nice value at +600 but lost a lot of talent from last year.
Since Washington remains irrelevant, here's an interesting Nationals-related fact: I was a better pro prospect than my high school teammate John Lannan, who happens to be the Nationals' number two starter.
Pick: Mets +130.
Coming later in the week: Full NL East Preview & World Series Odds breakdown.
AL West: Angels -220; A's +300; Rangers +600; Mariners +1200
This division reminds me of the 2004 election. Did 51% of the country really want another four years of President Bush? Probably not. More likely, many of the voters simply opted not-Kerry. Betting on the Angels would be akin to voting not-Kerry. I'm not ready to go down that path again (yes, I voted for Bush in '04).
Sure, the Angels won the division by 20 games last year, but loyal readers know how dismayed I am with their off season efforts. Complacency does not breed division champions - unless your manager is Bobby Cox. I strongly believe the A's are just one player away from taking this division. Brad Pitt, err, Billy Beane make me look smart.
Pick: A's +300.
AL Central: Twins +175; Indians +200; White Sox +400; Tigers +400; Royals +1500
This division looks ripe for the picking, and the Indians seem most likely to take advantage.
The division favorite Twins have not added or lost any significant players this off season. Apparently, owner Carl Pohlad decided to cut costs and give the entire front office a four-month vacation.
The White Sox lost Javier Vazquez, Nick Swisher, Orlando Cabrera, Joe Crede and Ken Griffey, Jr. To compensate, they added... well, some spare parts (Wilson Betemit, Bartolo Colon).
The Tigers, coming off an uber-disappointing last place finish, made some minor changes such as replacing Edgar Renteria with Adam Everett (please, contain your excitement).
The Royals are the Royals.
That leaves us with the Indians who finished 2008 with a .500 record despite dealing CC Sabathia before the deadline. They revamped the bullpen with guys like sidewinder Joe Smith and fireballer Kerry Wood. The Indians also added Mark DeRosa who was disposed of by the Cubs for a reason unbeknown to most. The team underachieved last season and seems poised to take this division running away this season.
Pick: Indians +200.
AL East: Yankees -125; Red Sox +175; Rays +400; Blue Jays +1500; Orioles +4000
Talk all you want about the A-Rod distraction, lack of chemistry, and questionable health of some key contributors (Chien-Ming Wang, Jorge Posada), but the Yankees are clearly the team to beat. Wang, who sports a 54-20 career record, will be the team's third starter. No team in baseball can compete with the Sabathia-Burnett-Wang troika.
Pick: As much as it pains me, Yankees -125.
NL West: Dodgers +140; D'backs +160; Giants +500; Rockies +600; Padres +2000
Once the Dodgers sign Manny Ramirez, these odds will drop to -125. Don't wait. Jump on the Dodgers now. They have no competition.
If anyone wants to take the D'backs at +160, forget Vegas, and place your bets with the Banter. This team was decimated during the off season. They lost Randy Johnson, Orlando Hudson, Juan Cruz (presumably), Banter-favorite Adam Dunn, and Brandon Lyon. They took fliers on Tom Gordon - yes, "Flash" - Jon Garland, Scott Schoeneweis, and Felipe Lopez which wouldn't have been bad if the year were 2003. This will be a long, long season in the desert.
If you are a Giants' fan, I have some good news: Tim Lincecum will be your Opening Day starter. After that, things get murky. The front office failed to address the glaring need: offense. The Giants scored the second-fewest runs in the Majors last season. Signing Edgar Renteria won't do much to help.
The Rockies would intrigue me a whole lot more if not for the following three matters:
1. Aaron Cook is their #1 starter;
2. They traded their best player, Matt Holliday; and
3. Jeff Francis faces season-ending surgery.
Case closed.
As my mother often told me, "if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all." (Thinking.... thinking... Got it!) San Diego is a beautiful city. I was always a momma's boy.
Pick: Dodgers +140.
NL Central: Cubs -160; Brewers +500; Cardinals +600; Reds +600; Astros +1300; Pirates +3000
The Brewers lost CC Sabathia and Ben Sheets leaving Dave Bush to be the team's second starter.
The Reds are MLB's version of the NFL's Detroit Lions. Never interesting, often terrible, and just plain blah. They are a difficult team to get excited about.
The 'stros overachieved last season and figure to regress towards the mean.
The Pirates have a beautiful stadium (thanks, Mom).
That leaves the Cubs and Cards as the only two teams that have a chance of winning this division. Chicago won the division last season by seven games and made only minor changes. They figure to win about 92-94 games. Can St. Louis win more than that? Doubtful, but at +600, I'll take my chances. They have the best hitter in baseball (Albert Pujols) and an ace in Adam Wainwright. I'm also bullish on the idea of Skip Schumaker playing second base.
Pick: Cardinals +600.
NL East: Mets +130; Phillies +160; Braves +450; Marlins +600; Nationals +6000
Both East divisions figure to be very competitive throughout the season. The NL East has four teams capable of winning the division.
The defending Wold Series champion Phillies essentially swapped Raul Ibanez for Pat Burrell. The thing that concerns me with this team is the health of Cole Hamels. He threw the most pitches of any Major Leaguer last season. Can he repeat?
The Mets addressed their most glaring weakness, the bullpen, but failed to add an impact starter (although, they did retain Olly Perez). Will it be enough?
The Braves lost John Smoltz but added Derek Lowe and Javier Vazquez. If Chipper can stay healthy, a big "if," Atlanta can stay competitive.
The Marlins provide a nice value at +600 but lost a lot of talent from last year.
Since Washington remains irrelevant, here's an interesting Nationals-related fact: I was a better pro prospect than my high school teammate John Lannan, who happens to be the Nationals' number two starter.
Pick: Mets +130.
Coming later in the week: Full NL East Preview & World Series Odds breakdown.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Bobby Abreu and Other Thoughts and Observations
The Los Angeles Angels have signed Bobby Abreu to a one-year deal putting an exclamation point on a terribly disappointing offseason. The brief summary:
Out: 1B Mark Teixeira, P Francisco Rodriguez, P Jon Garland, OF Garrett Anderson
In: OF Bobby Abreu, P Brian Fuentes
RBI: 107, 101, 100
SB: 30, 25, 22
CS: 6, 8, 11
BB: 124, 84, 73
UZR: -15.6, -4.2, -25.6
Headfirst Dives / Slides: 0, 0, 0 - No one has ever seen Abreu dive or slide headfirst. Clearly doesn't want to scratch that face of his.
As seen in his UZR numbers, Abreu does not even play average defense making him a great candidate to DH. Unfortunately, Vlad Guerrero falls into the exact same boat.
The team had bundles of money in a buyer's market and has very little to show for it. Angels' fans should be displeased that the team added to its strengths but failed to address their most glaring deficiency - power.
In full disclosure, there are two redeeming factors in play. Although Abreu will be 35 years old on Opening Day, the Angels are only locked in for a single season. Also, Abreu has a reasonable contract ($5m) so it seems like a reasonable risk.
****************
Other Thoughts and Observations
*Same classic goal celebrations, including the matador (1:05), row the canoe (1:30), and snort the line (1:35) among others.
*Co-Dirtbag of the Week: Roberto Alomar. Plax was named earlier in the week.
*Leave it to the NY Post to come up with a way to cheer us up in these tough economic times:
Out: 1B Mark Teixeira, P Francisco Rodriguez, P Jon Garland, OF Garrett Anderson
In: OF Bobby Abreu, P Brian Fuentes
Fuentes for K-Rod is a wash. If given 70 opportunities, Fuentes may have saved more games than K-Rod. However, the upgrade of Abreu for Gary Matthews / Juan Rivera does not nearly compensate for the downgrade of Kendry Morales for Teixeira (in the understatement of the day). It does not help matters that Rivera signed a three-year deal this offseason. The Angels cannot afford this kind of offensive downgrade as their offense finished 10th in the AL in runs scored last season. Abreu could not be a worse fit for a team in desperate need of a power threat. Check out Abreu's stats for the previous three years:
HR: 15 (2006), 16 (2007), 20 (2008)RBI: 107, 101, 100
SB: 30, 25, 22
CS: 6, 8, 11
BB: 124, 84, 73
UZR: -15.6, -4.2, -25.6
Headfirst Dives / Slides: 0, 0, 0 - No one has ever seen Abreu dive or slide headfirst. Clearly doesn't want to scratch that face of his.
As seen in his UZR numbers, Abreu does not even play average defense making him a great candidate to DH. Unfortunately, Vlad Guerrero falls into the exact same boat.
The team had bundles of money in a buyer's market and has very little to show for it. Angels' fans should be displeased that the team added to its strengths but failed to address their most glaring deficiency - power.
In full disclosure, there are two redeeming factors in play. Although Abreu will be 35 years old on Opening Day, the Angels are only locked in for a single season. Also, Abreu has a reasonable contract ($5m) so it seems like a reasonable risk.
****************
Other Thoughts and Observations
*Same classic goal celebrations, including the matador (1:05), row the canoe (1:30), and snort the line (1:35) among others.
*A highly recommended, interesting read about Pitch Sequencing.
*Check out Dodgers' latest acquisition: Tanyon Sturtze. Think Joe Torre had anything to do with this move? I do. Now, he just needs Scott Proctor back and he'll be able to sleep easy at night.*Co-Dirtbag of the Week: Roberto Alomar. Plax was named earlier in the week.
*Leave it to the NY Post to come up with a way to cheer us up in these tough economic times:
Five Destinations for Amare
Phoenix will be hosting Sunday's NBA All Star Game. Had the game been played anywhere else, I am confident that Amare Stoudemire would have been traded already. Still, here are five teams that could make a play for him before the February 19th trade deadline.
Amare and Alando Tucker for Jerryd Bayless, LaMarcus Aldridge and Raef Lafrentz's expiring contract
Rumors are floating around that the Blazers have offered this package to the Suns. If this is an actual offer, Steve Kerr, please stop reading this and go accept... immediately. This still seems like waaaaaaay too much to give away on the Blazers' end.
New York
Amare, Goran Dragic, and Leandro Barbosa for Stephon Marbury, Nate Robinson, and Wilson Chandler
Phoenix would clear about $20m from its books next season and get an up-and-coming small forward in Chandler and a spark plug sixth man in Robinson. The Knicks could build around Amare. Additionally, playing with Amare would have to be appealing to Lebron.
Indiana
Amare and Goran Dragic for Rasho Nesterovic, Roy Hibbert, Brandon Rush, and Marquis Daniels
Both Daniels and Nesterovic's contracts expire this year. Hibbert and Rush, two first round draft picks, would ease the loss of sending Amare away. The Pacers would have a starting five of Amare, TJ Ford, Troy Murphy, Danny Granger and Mike Dunleavy. That team could win the East.
New Jersey
Amare and Goran Dragic for Ryan Anderson, Chairman Yi, Josh Boone, Stro Swift, and Maurice Ager
Again, this deal gives Phoenix cap relief and young talent. Is it enough, though? The Nets should hope so because he would make them a force in the East. Amare-Devin Harris-Vince Carter-Brook Lopez. Wow.
Oklahoma City
Amare, Goran Dragic, and Leandro Barbosa for Chris Wilcox, Desmond Mason, Joe Smith, Mouhamed Sene, San Antonio's 2009 1st Rounder and Phoenix's 2010 1st Rounder
Call me crazy, but this deal works for everyone.
The Thunder have five first round picks over the next two years. Dealing away two wouldn't be the end of the world especially since their 2009 first rounder should be in the top five. The nucleus of Amare-Russell Westbrook-Jeff Green-Kevin Durant would be among the league's best.
The Suns get their desired cap room plus some picks and a flier on Sene.
Portland
Amare and Alando Tucker for Jerryd Bayless, LaMarcus Aldridge and Raef Lafrentz's expiring contract
Rumors are floating around that the Blazers have offered this package to the Suns. If this is an actual offer, Steve Kerr, please stop reading this and go accept... immediately. This still seems like waaaaaaay too much to give away on the Blazers' end.
New York
Amare, Goran Dragic, and Leandro Barbosa for Stephon Marbury, Nate Robinson, and Wilson Chandler
Phoenix would clear about $20m from its books next season and get an up-and-coming small forward in Chandler and a spark plug sixth man in Robinson. The Knicks could build around Amare. Additionally, playing with Amare would have to be appealing to Lebron.
Indiana
Amare and Goran Dragic for Rasho Nesterovic, Roy Hibbert, Brandon Rush, and Marquis Daniels
Both Daniels and Nesterovic's contracts expire this year. Hibbert and Rush, two first round draft picks, would ease the loss of sending Amare away. The Pacers would have a starting five of Amare, TJ Ford, Troy Murphy, Danny Granger and Mike Dunleavy. That team could win the East.
New Jersey
Amare and Goran Dragic for Ryan Anderson, Chairman Yi, Josh Boone, Stro Swift, and Maurice Ager
Again, this deal gives Phoenix cap relief and young talent. Is it enough, though? The Nets should hope so because he would make them a force in the East. Amare-Devin Harris-Vince Carter-Brook Lopez. Wow.
Oklahoma City
Amare, Goran Dragic, and Leandro Barbosa for Chris Wilcox, Desmond Mason, Joe Smith, Mouhamed Sene, San Antonio's 2009 1st Rounder and Phoenix's 2010 1st Rounder
Call me crazy, but this deal works for everyone.
The Thunder have five first round picks over the next two years. Dealing away two wouldn't be the end of the world especially since their 2009 first rounder should be in the top five. The nucleus of Amare-Russell Westbrook-Jeff Green-Kevin Durant would be among the league's best.
The Suns get their desired cap room plus some picks and a flier on Sene.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
JT vs. LT
Justin Timberlake vs. Lawrence Taylor
Amazingly, both have come to fruition.
Justin Timberlake's career has seen a cataclysmic rise. His unprecedented career path flow chart would look something like this:
To summarize, in about 14 years, JT has gone from a prepubescent, Disney-singing dork to an artist respect by artists from all genres. During this time, he has won six Grammy Awards and an Emmy. He has been romantically invloved with Alyssa Milano, Cameron Diaz and Scarlett Johansson (then again, who hasn't).
On the other hand, Lawrence Taylor's career has endured a precipitous drop. His flow chart:
Dominant college career at University of North Carolina prompts New York Giants to select Taylor with the second overall pick in the 1981 NFL Draft ->
I cannot believe I am actually typing this, but Taylor went from one of the most feared football players of all time to an ordinary guy doing the flamenco for millions of people on TV.
What a shame.
Had you parlayed the following two wagers in 1993, the odds would have been about 17,000,000-to-1.
1) In the next sixteen years, the white kid from The Mickey Mouse Club named Justin Timberlake will collaborate and perform with rappers; and
2) In the next sixteen years, Lawrence Taylor will tap dance for money in front of a national TV audience.
1) In the next sixteen years, the white kid from The Mickey Mouse Club named Justin Timberlake will collaborate and perform with rappers; and
2) In the next sixteen years, Lawrence Taylor will tap dance for money in front of a national TV audience.
Amazingly, both have come to fruition.
Justin Timberlake's career has seen a cataclysmic rise. His unprecedented career path flow chart would look something like this:
The Mickey Mouse Club [garnering only the admiration of girls between the ages of four and nine] ->
Boy band star [natural next step for a career] ->
Performs at the Super Bowl where he purposefully strips Janet Jackson [arguably the turning point of his career] ->
Acting career begins ->
Drops boy band image and collaborates with hip hop and rap stars including the Black Eyed Peas Nelly, and Timbaland ->
Garners the respect of the entire music community and women of all ages.
To summarize, in about 14 years, JT has gone from a prepubescent, Disney-singing dork to an artist respect by artists from all genres. During this time, he has won six Grammy Awards and an Emmy. He has been romantically invloved with Alyssa Milano, Cameron Diaz and Scarlett Johansson (then again, who hasn't).
On the other hand, Lawrence Taylor's career has endured a precipitous drop. His flow chart:
Dominant college career at University of North Carolina prompts New York Giants to select Taylor with the second overall pick in the 1981 NFL Draft ->
Wins two Super Bowls and three NFL Defensive Player of the Year Awards ->
Retiures from the NFL ->
Admits he sent call girls to the hotel room of his opponents the night before games ->
Arrested three times for drug possession ->
Accepts invitation to paticipate on Dancing With the Stars ->
Loses the respect of many.
I cannot believe I am actually typing this, but Taylor went from one of the most feared football players of all time to an ordinary guy doing the flamenco for millions of people on TV.
What a shame.
Which of these guys will be Dancing with the Stars in 2009?
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