Well, let's just say I had a post with full predictions for the Final 4 all set to go on Friday but I never got around to posting it up. And to make it worse, all of my predictions were dead wrong. I went on and on about Georgetown's offense and UCLA's perimeter play. Well Georgetown's offense was alright, but the point guard play of Mike Conley was terrific. I know that Greg Oden's simply being on the floor is so important to the Buckeyes, but does anyone doubt that Conley is the MVP of this team. He creates so many open looks for his teammates and most importantly, he always seems to be the one with the ball when the shot clock is winding down and a play needs to be made. I'd love to see him stick around for another year or two and finally escape Oden's shadow. By the way, if Oden spread his legs on that dunk attempt when Green tried to take that charge, I think we would have seen VC over Fred Weis II. He makes about 5-10 plays every game that makes me turn to whoever's next to me and say, he's the #1 pick without a doubt.
The Gators looked great. I didn't think that their perimeter guys would be able to handle UCLA's pressure as well as they did. For the first 10 minutes or so, it seemed like they were adjusting. Then Brewer made a couple big 3s and forced UCLA to stretch the defense a little bit opening up the inside for Noah, Horford, and Richard. If Florida's guards perform like that tonight, I can't see them losing.
As for my prediction, I'm rooting for The Ohio State University, but I can't see them beating Florida after the way they played on Saturday. I think Florida is just the better team with the better coach. Then again, I do think Ohio St will have the 2 best players on the floor, but then Florida has numbers 3-7. I think Ohio St. should try and go big to keep Oden from having to contend with Noah and Horford by himself and limit him from foul trouble. Oden should stay away from Noah when on defense as he can be very active on offensive end and might lead to cheap fouls for the big man. Oden should guard Richard whenever he's in the game so that he can concentrate on coming over on the weakside whenever Noah and Horford make a move toward the basket.
Florida needs to continue to shoot well from the perimeter. As long Humphrey, Green and Brewer are knocking down shots, they're close to unbeatable. This strategy is contrary what many coaches usually teach about attacking inside first to open up the outside shots, but with a team like Florida with 2 of the top 5 big men in America, teams will consistently double down and sag to help. By hitting a couple of deep shots early, OSU will be forced to stretch it's defense and leave Oden by himself under the basket as a one man help. This can work against teams with only one big man, but with a team that has Horford and Noah, its a recipe for disaster.
Prediction: Fla. 81 OSU 74
And I can't wait for One Shining Moment. For anyone who loves college basketball or even anyone that has a soul, this has to be the best part of the college basketball year. I'm a huge geek about it and I actually got a tape with every single One Shining Moment from when it started back I believe in 1985 until 2005. Then I proceeded to record last year's to the tape and fully plan on doing it again this year. And once again, yes I'm a geek.
I despise Alex Rodriguez.
Showing posts with label march madness. Show all posts
Showing posts with label march madness. Show all posts
Monday, April 2, 2007
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
A-Rod's Revenge
This will be my last post before the Cards and Mets open up the season on Sunday so I figure a predictions column is appropriate
I just wrote for 20 minutes going through the division but I got bored by my own column so I'm going to start over
In no particular order I will go through my thoughts on this upcoming season
Arod will respond like the great ones do. This is his make or break season in NY, between his contract options and his relationship with the Media and Fans. I foresee MVP like numbers from him, I think he answers the critics, answers his post season demons and finally wins a title
I think the Tigers magic runs out and the Twins win that division going away. Morneau and Mauer will only get better, and there is no reason to believe that Santana will slow down. If only Liriano wasn't out for the year, this would be a no brainer.
Mike Piazza makes Billy Beane look good and hits and hits all season long. Without having to crouch behind the plate, he adds depth to that A's lineup and hits 30 HR's +
I see the Mets struggling this year. I'm not saying they won't make the playoffs, but they rolled over the National League a year ago. Alou and Green are guarantees to spend time on the DL. Their pitching could not be more fragile right now then it already is. El Duque cannot be expected to pitch a full season. I expect Pedro to comeback earlier then expected. My trustee colleague says August at the earliest, I'm going to with right around the All Star break.
How bout Bonds??? He's had a good spring, he has to be immune to steroids talk by now. I think he'll get his record and retire at season's end. Giants are going nowhere, and if he does not retire, he will not play for a different team next year.
Dice-K will be the real deal and I'm interested to see where he goes in this Friday's fantasy draft. We know those Boston guys are going to jump on him early.
AL MVP:
Vernon Wells (sleeper pick Vlad-i know not a real sleeper, but he barely gets mentioned anymore)
AL CY Young: (sleeper pick Dice-K)
Santana
NL MVP: (sleeper pick Jose Reyes)
Soriano
NL Cy Young: (sleeper pick Ben Sheets)
Zambrano
I almost went with the double-double Wells-Halladay, Soriano-Zambrano... but since four #1's still can't make it to the Final Four, i can't boldly predict a double-double
I dont know if they are considered rookies (one def is), but Delmon Young and Alex Gordon will make splashes in their first full seasons
Can anyone else still not get over Gil Meche getting $55 million dollars?!?!?!?
Will King Felix finally get it? I dont know but until he does I think we should reserve that nickname for King James over in Cleveland.
Speaking of the King... check out the new house he is building http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/basketball/nba/03/27/bc.bkn.lebron.shouse.ap/index.html?cnn=yes
NCAA:
Florida over UCLA
Georgetown over OSU
Florida repeats!
Better backdoor offense Georgetown or Union? Give me those Dutchmen
Who do I want taking the last shot... Lewis or Afflalo.... I'm taking Lewis
Running my team... Give me Conley over Collison
Coaching my team... In this order... Donovan, Howland, JT3, Motta (no disrespect to any of the 4 here)
Best game remaining... OSU-GTOWN
Did I mention UNC cost me $1000???
KNICKS ARE DEAD IN THE WATER, I WILL NOT MENTION THEM IN ANY POST UNTIL THIS SEASON IS OVER (unless they make the playoffs)
I just wrote for 20 minutes going through the division but I got bored by my own column so I'm going to start over
In no particular order I will go through my thoughts on this upcoming season
Arod will respond like the great ones do. This is his make or break season in NY, between his contract options and his relationship with the Media and Fans. I foresee MVP like numbers from him, I think he answers the critics, answers his post season demons and finally wins a title
I think the Tigers magic runs out and the Twins win that division going away. Morneau and Mauer will only get better, and there is no reason to believe that Santana will slow down. If only Liriano wasn't out for the year, this would be a no brainer.
Mike Piazza makes Billy Beane look good and hits and hits all season long. Without having to crouch behind the plate, he adds depth to that A's lineup and hits 30 HR's +
I see the Mets struggling this year. I'm not saying they won't make the playoffs, but they rolled over the National League a year ago. Alou and Green are guarantees to spend time on the DL. Their pitching could not be more fragile right now then it already is. El Duque cannot be expected to pitch a full season. I expect Pedro to comeback earlier then expected. My trustee colleague says August at the earliest, I'm going to with right around the All Star break.
How bout Bonds??? He's had a good spring, he has to be immune to steroids talk by now. I think he'll get his record and retire at season's end. Giants are going nowhere, and if he does not retire, he will not play for a different team next year.
Dice-K will be the real deal and I'm interested to see where he goes in this Friday's fantasy draft. We know those Boston guys are going to jump on him early.
AL MVP:
Vernon Wells (sleeper pick Vlad-i know not a real sleeper, but he barely gets mentioned anymore)
AL CY Young: (sleeper pick Dice-K)
Santana
NL MVP: (sleeper pick Jose Reyes)
Soriano
NL Cy Young: (sleeper pick Ben Sheets)
Zambrano
I almost went with the double-double Wells-Halladay, Soriano-Zambrano... but since four #1's still can't make it to the Final Four, i can't boldly predict a double-double
I dont know if they are considered rookies (one def is), but Delmon Young and Alex Gordon will make splashes in their first full seasons
Can anyone else still not get over Gil Meche getting $55 million dollars?!?!?!?
Will King Felix finally get it? I dont know but until he does I think we should reserve that nickname for King James over in Cleveland.
Speaking of the King... check out the new house he is building http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/basketball/nba/03/27/bc.bkn.lebron.shouse.ap/index.html?cnn=yes
NCAA:
Florida over UCLA
Georgetown over OSU
Florida repeats!
Better backdoor offense Georgetown or Union? Give me those Dutchmen
Who do I want taking the last shot... Lewis or Afflalo.... I'm taking Lewis
Running my team... Give me Conley over Collison
Coaching my team... In this order... Donovan, Howland, JT3, Motta (no disrespect to any of the 4 here)
Best game remaining... OSU-GTOWN
Did I mention UNC cost me $1000???
KNICKS ARE DEAD IN THE WATER, I WILL NOT MENTION THEM IN ANY POST UNTIL THIS SEASON IS OVER (unless they make the playoffs)
Monday, March 26, 2007
Weekend Notes
So did UNC cost anyone else $1000 yesterday???? it would have been a little shady to win my own pool, but that money could have done wonders.
Are you kidding me with that dry spell? Granted I think Georgetown's interior defense down the stretch was great, but those perimeter freshman didn't even look to step inside the 3 pt line. We talk about fabulous freshman all season, but I think we saw a case of a more mature team hanging around, and then putting the clamps on when they needed.
The KOBE scoring spree goes on... I have NBA League pass, and there were MVP chants from the start. I still put him behind Dirk and Nash, and even Kobe said, the MVP should come from one of the teams with the best records.
As for the upcoming fantasy draft, I lost in the finals last year by one blown Bob Wickman save and I'm back for vengeance this year.
Whats with all these Billy Packer haters? The man has passion for the game, and tremendous knowledge base, and he's done every Final 4 game since 1975!
I would say the two most talented teams in college basketball are no longer playing, Kansas and UNC. Like Neal mentioned below, can't wait for the Hibbert-Oden matchup. Guy that has grown on me all season is Lewis from OSU. He seems to always hit that big 3 when they need it.
UCLA seeking revenge for last year's finals drubbing. They didn't have Ship last year, and an interview with Howland was pretty revealing of what Ship does for that team. Best passer and best help defender. Still got to think Florida will take it, but expect a much better game.
"Take a chance, make it happen... "
Are you kidding me with that dry spell? Granted I think Georgetown's interior defense down the stretch was great, but those perimeter freshman didn't even look to step inside the 3 pt line. We talk about fabulous freshman all season, but I think we saw a case of a more mature team hanging around, and then putting the clamps on when they needed.
The KOBE scoring spree goes on... I have NBA League pass, and there were MVP chants from the start. I still put him behind Dirk and Nash, and even Kobe said, the MVP should come from one of the teams with the best records.
As for the upcoming fantasy draft, I lost in the finals last year by one blown Bob Wickman save and I'm back for vengeance this year.
Whats with all these Billy Packer haters? The man has passion for the game, and tremendous knowledge base, and he's done every Final 4 game since 1975!
I would say the two most talented teams in college basketball are no longer playing, Kansas and UNC. Like Neal mentioned below, can't wait for the Hibbert-Oden matchup. Guy that has grown on me all season is Lewis from OSU. He seems to always hit that big 3 when they need it.
UCLA seeking revenge for last year's finals drubbing. They didn't have Ship last year, and an interview with Howland was pretty revealing of what Ship does for that team. Best passer and best help defender. Still got to think Florida will take it, but expect a much better game.
"Take a chance, make it happen... "
Quick Hits
A couple things about the Final Four on this Monday morning...
- Four great teams in the Final Four that each had great odds going into the tournament.
- A few great big players in this group. It will be interesting to see Hibbert go against Oden considering they are each used to playing against guys who are at least two to three inches shorter than them. Both guys are 7'1" and are beasts.
- An interesting group of coaches. None of the big names of the past 15 years (Pitino, K, Williams, Calhoun, etc) unless you count Donavan as a big name at this point. All are relatively younger coaches with young teams and programs on the rise. While Donavan has already won a championship and is looking to become a later day Coach K, the other three are looking to establish a Final Four tradition of their own.
- The two players a hate the most...Hibbert and Mata (UCLA). Honorable mention goes to Patrick Ewing Jr.
- Player I am rooting hardest for? Obviously Joakim Noah. My boy from high school who plays harder than anyone in America. I hope he wins it again, and he deserves everything he has gotten because he has had to work his ass off for it.
- Championship game match-up? Right now I am thinking Ohio St. vs Florida...rematch of the BCS Title Game.
- Pro prospects galore in this Final Four. Could be as much as eight or nine first round picks within these games, much of which can be found in the frontcourts.
- Best individual match-up in the Semifinal games? Like I said earlier, Hibbert and Oden in the Ohio St./Georgetown game and Cory Brewer/Aaraon Afflalo in the other Semifinal (assuming they match-up).
- Not looking forward to a weekend of Billy Packer and Jeem Nantz.
- Think about this sports triple decker or double burger or any other name you think is better.....Friday evening I have my much anticipated baseball fantasy draft for "The League". You will hear much more about this league over the course of the season due to the fact that all four contributors are a part of this. On Saturday there are the National Semifinal Games. Sunday is opening day for the future 2007 World Series Champion Mets as they look to get revenge from last years NLCS in St. Louis. Lastyle, on Monday is the NCAA Championship game. BTW...the fantasy draft is being held at Foxwoods. We are that damn cool.
- One funny part of the Peyton Manning SNL was his fake commercial for the NFL United Way. Definitely check it out on YouTube..
- Oh, and Kobe is the man. He belongs alongside Wilt, Kareem, MJ and possibly Shaq as one of the most unstoppable offensive forces in the history of the League. he is what makes the Lakers not title contenders (yet) but just maybe the most dangerous team for a first round upset.
STKAFI
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Fabulous Frosh
Much has been made of the 2 star freshman in college basketball this year, we all know their names. Everyone has been on the Greg Oden bandwagon since he was in high school. He's probably the 2nd best thing to ever come out of Buffalo, NY, right after the Gus Macker. My buddy Jim could come up with a list of about 20 of the greatest things that he believes all originated fromBuffalo, which would include the wings(correct), hot girls(maybe correct), Labatt Blue(incorrect), pizza(yes he really believes that) but definitely not Greg Oden. The other precocious freshman, Kevin Durant, has been the Bill Simmons' pet prodigy since the season began. I don't think you'll find many arguments that these 2 have been the most impactful 1st year players since Carmelo took Syracuse to the national championship.
What hasn't been discussed nearly enough is the impact that so many other freshman in the nation have had. Off the top of my head, Mike Conley Jr., Brandan Wright, Ty Lawson, and Taj Gibson are all on teams still playing in the tournament and have arguably had a bigger impact in college than Oden. Durant has been on another level this entire year, but is he head and shoulders above Brandan Wright as an NBA prospect? 6'10 small forwards that can go off the dribble and have range like Durant are very, very rare. But as Sports Guy was so quick to criticize Rick Barnes for not posting Durant up against USC, maybe it was Durant that was hesitant to go inside. Obviously the immediate comparison for Durant is Kevin Garnett, but I see a lot of Lamar Odom in him as well. This is not a bad thing, and I'd love for him to end up on the Celtics. But is he really that far advanced, that any team should even consider taking him instead of a possible franchise center? Looking far into the future I see the draft shaping up as Oden, Durant at 1-2 and some variation of Wright, Horford, Noah, and Julian Wright following. It reminds me very much of the Lebron, Darko, Melo draft. Three "franchise" guys at the top, followed by pretty good players named Chris Bosh and Dwayne Wade. Let's throw Darko out of that mix. Lebron and Oden are two of the most hyped prospects of all time, Durant and Melo had very similar freshman years. Bosh was a freshman star, just like Wright but overshadowed by another marquee freshman. Noah and Horford are proven college guys who either could possibly have gone #1 in the draft last year. So while everyone is hoping to get the #1 or 2 pick in this years draft, I think the #1 is that much more valuable. Oden and Lebron are rare players that come along once every 5-10 years. The gap between Oden and Durant's pro potential, is much greater than between Durant and B. Wright and even Horford or Noah.
Some weekend picks:
Butler will make a run against the Gators, thanks to Smurph Baggins' second favorite player left in the tourney, AJ Graves. Contrary to prior comments, Graves and Smurph Baggins bear no facial resemblance. In fact, once again for anyone that missed the comments earlier in the week, Smurph Baggins looks strikingly similar to the man dubbed "Brad Pitt with a jump shot", Nate Funk. Anyway, Butler falls by 10 because the Gators make their foul shots in the end.
Oregon beats UNLV because I love Aaron Brooks and that this is everyone's upset special. I expect Brooks to outplay Kruger and if he outplays Taurean Green in the Elite 8 matchup, the Ducks could be the surprise Final 4 entry.
In the other games tonight, UNC will take care of USC. And GTown will beat Vandy. And I'll go with a Final 4 prediction of GTown, Fla., OSU, and Kansas.
Randoms:
Matt Schaub to the Texans tells me a couple of things:
1. Brady Quinn is gonna go in the top few picks. If the Texans thought he would still be there, then this trade never would have happened.
2. Petrino better be the offensive genius he's made out to be if he wants to win with Vick at QB. I don't think he is.
3. The Texans will still suck. Can anyone name me someone from their offensive line without looking it up?
As I'm finishing this up OSU is getting killed before halftime. Nice Final 4 picks Smurph.
I just want to let everyone know I'll try and post my thoughts on the OSU-Tenn. game if I have time later today. Just an unbelievable game, with huge shot following huge shot. By far the best game of the tournament.
What hasn't been discussed nearly enough is the impact that so many other freshman in the nation have had. Off the top of my head, Mike Conley Jr., Brandan Wright, Ty Lawson, and Taj Gibson are all on teams still playing in the tournament and have arguably had a bigger impact in college than Oden. Durant has been on another level this entire year, but is he head and shoulders above Brandan Wright as an NBA prospect? 6'10 small forwards that can go off the dribble and have range like Durant are very, very rare. But as Sports Guy was so quick to criticize Rick Barnes for not posting Durant up against USC, maybe it was Durant that was hesitant to go inside. Obviously the immediate comparison for Durant is Kevin Garnett, but I see a lot of Lamar Odom in him as well. This is not a bad thing, and I'd love for him to end up on the Celtics. But is he really that far advanced, that any team should even consider taking him instead of a possible franchise center? Looking far into the future I see the draft shaping up as Oden, Durant at 1-2 and some variation of Wright, Horford, Noah, and Julian Wright following. It reminds me very much of the Lebron, Darko, Melo draft. Three "franchise" guys at the top, followed by pretty good players named Chris Bosh and Dwayne Wade. Let's throw Darko out of that mix. Lebron and Oden are two of the most hyped prospects of all time, Durant and Melo had very similar freshman years. Bosh was a freshman star, just like Wright but overshadowed by another marquee freshman. Noah and Horford are proven college guys who either could possibly have gone #1 in the draft last year. So while everyone is hoping to get the #1 or 2 pick in this years draft, I think the #1 is that much more valuable. Oden and Lebron are rare players that come along once every 5-10 years. The gap between Oden and Durant's pro potential, is much greater than between Durant and B. Wright and even Horford or Noah.
Some weekend picks:
Butler will make a run against the Gators, thanks to Smurph Baggins' second favorite player left in the tourney, AJ Graves. Contrary to prior comments, Graves and Smurph Baggins bear no facial resemblance. In fact, once again for anyone that missed the comments earlier in the week, Smurph Baggins looks strikingly similar to the man dubbed "Brad Pitt with a jump shot", Nate Funk. Anyway, Butler falls by 10 because the Gators make their foul shots in the end.
Oregon beats UNLV because I love Aaron Brooks and that this is everyone's upset special. I expect Brooks to outplay Kruger and if he outplays Taurean Green in the Elite 8 matchup, the Ducks could be the surprise Final 4 entry.
In the other games tonight, UNC will take care of USC. And GTown will beat Vandy. And I'll go with a Final 4 prediction of GTown, Fla., OSU, and Kansas.
Randoms:
Matt Schaub to the Texans tells me a couple of things:
1. Brady Quinn is gonna go in the top few picks. If the Texans thought he would still be there, then this trade never would have happened.
2. Petrino better be the offensive genius he's made out to be if he wants to win with Vick at QB. I don't think he is.
3. The Texans will still suck. Can anyone name me someone from their offensive line without looking it up?
As I'm finishing this up OSU is getting killed before halftime. Nice Final 4 picks Smurph.
I just want to let everyone know I'll try and post my thoughts on the OSU-Tenn. game if I have time later today. Just an unbelievable game, with huge shot following huge shot. By far the best game of the tournament.
"It" and More
THE "IT" FACTOR
So I have read articles in the past about athletes having "it". It's that rare attribute that the great ones seem to have and the good ones seem to be missing. This past week I watched Kobe drop 115 pts in 2 games, and I watched Kevin Durant lose in the second round of the tournament and then say something later to the effect of "A second round loss is unacceptable, this loss is on me". It got me thinking... does Durant have "it"?
First, let's take a look at Kobe. The Lakers has been in a terrible slide after being hit with the Luke Walton and Lamar Odom injuries. Coach Jackson tells Kobe he wants him to put the team game to the side and be aggressive from the start. Kobe responds with 65 and 50 in the next two games, both wins, and suddenly the Lakers who got Walton coming back and Odom already back are looking like the darkhorse threat they were in the beginning of the season. Point being, Kobe has this extra gear that is undeniably a reflection of his competitiveness. Jackson put the challenge in front of him and Kobe ate it up. We use to hear about MJ making things up in his mind to motivate him, like the coach of the next game said something about a part of his game. I think Kobe plays with this same kind of fury. This witch hunt the NBA is on to punish him for his elbows, etc. will only make him angrier and more of an assassin.
Now Durant. I think in the end, the $$$ will win out and he will make the jump. However we have all heard the reports of how he's fallen in love with college so who knows. I have watched a number of games this year of his, and I think he has that passion and desire to be the next "it" athlete. The man wants to win, he is a great teammate and takes responsibility (this is the key one, because as we have seen athletes missing the "it" like Peyton and Arod have often been accused of throwing teammates and others, under the bus). Remember he is 18 years old and possibly on the brink of a Hall of Fame career. But these attributes dont get you to Kobe's level on the "it" scale it takes more. If you have watched Durant this year though he seems to feel the moment, and feel the game in his hands. I remember watching his second half against Texas Tech where he finished with like 37 and 21. He scored in every way imaginable, and he went after rebounds like it was him against 5 Red Raiders. I dont think he had teammates (and coach) who understood the game well enough for them to go further. It was performances like those though that make me think he does have "it"
SWEET 16
The upsets are great and all, and they give the public a collective favorite but what we have here is 16 of the best teams in the country. Minus my Dukies and Durant, we really have the best of the best left. One interesting story I heard... Kruger of UNLV, the pg who plays for his dad actually graduated from Arizona St and found an NCAA loop hole which allowed him to transfer to UNLV, not sit out a year and play. Good thing for that loop hole, because without his clutch 3's down the stretch, UNLV is long gone. Questions I look forward to finding out the answers to:
Will Oden be able to elevate his offensive game when Ohio St struggles to score?
How good is Collison of UCLA, some say he's the best pg in the country?
Can AC Law IV put this team on his back against the most athletic team I saw play all year in Memphis?
No questions asked, if I'm an NBA GM i'm drafting Hortford over Noah. Everyone credits Noah for his motor, but Hortford has one of his own too. There was about 6 consecutive possessions against Purdue where he was on the floor, guarding guards, crashing the boards, diving, etc.
Along the same note, is there a person who hits more "dagger, game over three's" then Humphrey of Florida?
I could go on all day with NCAA stuff, but please if you haven't seen him play, check out Byars of Vanderbilt, you won't be disappointed.
My picks:
Kansas over SIU- close game in the first half, love SIU's swarming defense, but kansas pulls away in the second half with their barrage of talent
UCLA over Pitt- Aaron Gray comes back from the dead, but Affalo and Collison show why they are the best backcourt in the country. UCLA in a close one, the guards hit their free throws late
Florida over Butler- Florida does not put this game on snooze for even a half, blowout city
UNLV over Oregon- I don't like teams who can only shoot, UNLV presses up on the guards and makes Oregon play a little but uglier ball then they would like
UNC over USC- I actually like this USC team, i was very impressed with their all around play against Texas, but much like Kansas... too many weapons, and too few masks on Hansborough
Georgetown over Vandy- I said earlier how much i Love Byars... but one many is not enough against this monster front line and wing players of Georgetown
Ohio St over Tenn- this is the game i pick with the least amount of confidence. Ohio St beat them by 2 earlier on a Lewis 3 pt shot with 11 seconds to go. I heard Bruce Pearl on PTI yesterday and I think he'll have a good game plan for Oden (like Xavier). I like COnnelly to have a big game in this one.
Texas A & M over Memphis- still don't know how Douglas-Robertson's ankle is going, and Law IV is one of those guys I never feel comfortable picking against.
RANDOMS
-Anyone see OJ Mayo- up 41, last minute of his final high school game, fast break throws it off the backboard to himself, dunks it, throws the ball into the stands and gets a technical. (This guy going to survive even one year in college?)
-How about Ronaldo Balkman's 3rd quarter against Toronto?
-Who has lived up to the hype more Sid the Kid or Lebron?
Crosby is leading the NHL in pts in just his second season. Youngest player ever to score 100pts in his first two seasons. I would say Lebron had more hype because of the sport he played, but Crosby has the weight of an entire league on his shoulders and has lived up to it. Ok that's enough hockey.
Knicks hosting Portland tonight.... please don't let this be another bad loss. Orlando and Indiana are tanking, Knicks just got to take care of the games they are suppose to and they'll be in.
So I have read articles in the past about athletes having "it". It's that rare attribute that the great ones seem to have and the good ones seem to be missing. This past week I watched Kobe drop 115 pts in 2 games, and I watched Kevin Durant lose in the second round of the tournament and then say something later to the effect of "A second round loss is unacceptable, this loss is on me". It got me thinking... does Durant have "it"?
First, let's take a look at Kobe. The Lakers has been in a terrible slide after being hit with the Luke Walton and Lamar Odom injuries. Coach Jackson tells Kobe he wants him to put the team game to the side and be aggressive from the start. Kobe responds with 65 and 50 in the next two games, both wins, and suddenly the Lakers who got Walton coming back and Odom already back are looking like the darkhorse threat they were in the beginning of the season. Point being, Kobe has this extra gear that is undeniably a reflection of his competitiveness. Jackson put the challenge in front of him and Kobe ate it up. We use to hear about MJ making things up in his mind to motivate him, like the coach of the next game said something about a part of his game. I think Kobe plays with this same kind of fury. This witch hunt the NBA is on to punish him for his elbows, etc. will only make him angrier and more of an assassin.
Now Durant. I think in the end, the $$$ will win out and he will make the jump. However we have all heard the reports of how he's fallen in love with college so who knows. I have watched a number of games this year of his, and I think he has that passion and desire to be the next "it" athlete. The man wants to win, he is a great teammate and takes responsibility (this is the key one, because as we have seen athletes missing the "it" like Peyton and Arod have often been accused of throwing teammates and others, under the bus). Remember he is 18 years old and possibly on the brink of a Hall of Fame career. But these attributes dont get you to Kobe's level on the "it" scale it takes more. If you have watched Durant this year though he seems to feel the moment, and feel the game in his hands. I remember watching his second half against Texas Tech where he finished with like 37 and 21. He scored in every way imaginable, and he went after rebounds like it was him against 5 Red Raiders. I dont think he had teammates (and coach) who understood the game well enough for them to go further. It was performances like those though that make me think he does have "it"
SWEET 16
The upsets are great and all, and they give the public a collective favorite but what we have here is 16 of the best teams in the country. Minus my Dukies and Durant, we really have the best of the best left. One interesting story I heard... Kruger of UNLV, the pg who plays for his dad actually graduated from Arizona St and found an NCAA loop hole which allowed him to transfer to UNLV, not sit out a year and play. Good thing for that loop hole, because without his clutch 3's down the stretch, UNLV is long gone. Questions I look forward to finding out the answers to:
Will Oden be able to elevate his offensive game when Ohio St struggles to score?
How good is Collison of UCLA, some say he's the best pg in the country?
Can AC Law IV put this team on his back against the most athletic team I saw play all year in Memphis?
No questions asked, if I'm an NBA GM i'm drafting Hortford over Noah. Everyone credits Noah for his motor, but Hortford has one of his own too. There was about 6 consecutive possessions against Purdue where he was on the floor, guarding guards, crashing the boards, diving, etc.
Along the same note, is there a person who hits more "dagger, game over three's" then Humphrey of Florida?
I could go on all day with NCAA stuff, but please if you haven't seen him play, check out Byars of Vanderbilt, you won't be disappointed.
My picks:
Kansas over SIU- close game in the first half, love SIU's swarming defense, but kansas pulls away in the second half with their barrage of talent
UCLA over Pitt- Aaron Gray comes back from the dead, but Affalo and Collison show why they are the best backcourt in the country. UCLA in a close one, the guards hit their free throws late
Florida over Butler- Florida does not put this game on snooze for even a half, blowout city
UNLV over Oregon- I don't like teams who can only shoot, UNLV presses up on the guards and makes Oregon play a little but uglier ball then they would like
UNC over USC- I actually like this USC team, i was very impressed with their all around play against Texas, but much like Kansas... too many weapons, and too few masks on Hansborough
Georgetown over Vandy- I said earlier how much i Love Byars... but one many is not enough against this monster front line and wing players of Georgetown
Ohio St over Tenn- this is the game i pick with the least amount of confidence. Ohio St beat them by 2 earlier on a Lewis 3 pt shot with 11 seconds to go. I heard Bruce Pearl on PTI yesterday and I think he'll have a good game plan for Oden (like Xavier). I like COnnelly to have a big game in this one.
Texas A & M over Memphis- still don't know how Douglas-Robertson's ankle is going, and Law IV is one of those guys I never feel comfortable picking against.
RANDOMS
-Anyone see OJ Mayo- up 41, last minute of his final high school game, fast break throws it off the backboard to himself, dunks it, throws the ball into the stands and gets a technical. (This guy going to survive even one year in college?)
-How about Ronaldo Balkman's 3rd quarter against Toronto?
-Who has lived up to the hype more Sid the Kid or Lebron?
Crosby is leading the NHL in pts in just his second season. Youngest player ever to score 100pts in his first two seasons. I would say Lebron had more hype because of the sport he played, but Crosby has the weight of an entire league on his shoulders and has lived up to it. Ok that's enough hockey.
Knicks hosting Portland tonight.... please don't let this be another bad loss. Orlando and Indiana are tanking, Knicks just got to take care of the games they are suppose to and they'll be in.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
I'm Still #1
The Men's Basketball NCAA Tournament has been around since 1939. At first it was not even the most prestigious end of the year tournament, the National Invitational Tournament (N.I.T.) was. Over time it has become the premier tournament in college basketball though, while the N.I.T. lost its luster. Not until 1985 though did the Tournament resemble the structure that it does today of four brackets with sixteen teams in each bracket, making a total of 64 teams (in 2001 they added a play-in game for one of the "16 seeds" to make it 65 teams instead of 64). In the 22 years since then, there has not been one instance where the #1 seed from each region has made the Final Four in the same season. In the 28 years since the Tournament started seeding teams period, all four #1s have not been in the Final Four together. In fact, only three times has three of the four #1 seeds made the Final Four in the same year, with the most recent coming in 1999. Will it happen this year? Well, with sixteen teams left, each #1 seed is still alive to make it there.
Plenty of times in the last 28 years all four #1 seeds have been alive for the Sweet Sixteen. Only four times though have they still been playing in the Elite Eight. This season, not only are all four #1 seeds still around, but they are each heavy favorites to win their next game. In the East, most people feel that UNC caught a major break when Kevin Durant and Texas were knocked out of the tournament by USC. While USC would not have beaten Texas if they were not playing great, you have to believe that they stand a worse chance than Texas would have of knocking off the Tar Heels considering the potential impact of Durant. Ohio St gets to play Tennessee in the South region. While Tennessee is a very dangerous team and able to put up a ton of point on the board, they play a 6'3" power forward. Ohio St. has 7'1" Greg Oden in the middle. With this major size difference, Ohio St. has to be considered a huge favorite. In the remaining regions, Kansas and Florida are each playing mid-major teams. Florida is matching up against Butler, while Kansas faces Southern Illinois. Both of these mid-majors have had great seasons, which is how they earned their five and four seeds respectively, but matching up against the very top of the major conferences is extremely tough. The bottom line is that with the exception of George Mason a year ago, the deeper you get into the tournament the more the power conference teams move on and the mid majors flop.
There is one team left in each region that would scare me if I was a #1 seed.
East: Georgetown
West: UCLA
South: Texas A&M
Midwest: Oregon
Georgetown and UCLA are both teams that play exceptional defense and are efficient at the offensive end. While Georgetown beats people up inside, UCLA play more of a perimeter oriented game on the offensive end. Both teams could have made arguments for #1 seeds at the beginning of the tournament and both are picked by many to not only make the Final Four but to win the whole thing. I can not say which team is more dangerous, so I will just say that these two teams are without a doubt the biggest obstacles to an all #1 seed Final Four.
Texas A&M is a veteran team that has played tough all season. They have a tremendous leader in Acie Law at the point, and have proven that they can play big in tough spots. Earlier in the season they went into Kansas and beat the Jayhawks on their home floor. Oregon is a team that can flat out light it up. They have been inconsistent during the season, but they start five guys who can each stroke the three. They have shown the ability that if they get hot, they can beat anyone.
People are probably reading this and saying who cares? First of all it is still so early to talk like this and second of all it this NEVER happens. I don't see a reason for why it will never happen in the future though. A 16 beating a one? That will never happen (baring a crazy injury). All four #1s in the Final Four? It is too logical for it not to happen at some point. Why not this season? These four #1s may be the most talented group since the tournament was extended to 64 (65) teams. Think about this, since the NBA instituted its age limit, the college talent pool is back to what it was in the early 1990's. In addition, with so many kids going to college with the only intention of leaving after one or two seasons, the big programs are just stockpiling crazy talent knowing that they do not have to worry about keeping a spot for a kid for four years. This is the same reason that mid-majors have been able to have more success in the tournament in the earlier rounds. The mid-majors are recruiting more of the players that are staying three and four years, thus that experience pays off early in the tournament. As the tournament progresses though, the talent usually wins out.
UNC and Kansas have two of the more talented squads of recent memory. They each can play at any tempo, can score on the inside or outside, rebound the ball and play tough defense. They each go at least 10 deep and can be characterized as relentless in their approach on the court in that they keep on coming with more players and intensity through out a every game. Both teams could have multiple first round draft picks this June and should have enough firepower to compete at a high level next season no matter which players elect to leave for the NBA.
Ohio St. meanwhile has possibly the most unique player to see the college game since Tim Duncan or even Shaquille O'Neal. While Greg Oden is still very raw on the offensive end, he was still able to lead the team in scoring, dropping 16ppg while shooting 60%. His greater impact can be felt on the defensive end though where he averages over three blocks per game. While he is not nearly the only talent they have, he is what makes this team different from any of the past number of years. No team or player can truly match-up with Oden, and every game he has the potential to absolutely take over.
The last of the #1 seeds is the University of Florida. They are the defending champs and have the entire starting five back from their championship team of a year ago. This has not happened in a long time. Every team going back to at least the 1994 Arkansas team either started seniors or had players leave early for the NBA. This team is as battle tested as they come and they seem to play as well as they need to until they have to reach another gear, which they always seem to be able to do. They have three sure NBA first round picks and a coach who has been to two national title games, winning one. While they do not have the depth of other teams, they have crazy talent and unmatched experience.
Will all four of these teams make the final four? Judging by history, probably not. As evidenced by above though, I feel that these #1 seeds are as good of a group as the tournament has seen. We all know from watching this tournament that anything can happen. For the first time ever though, anything could be four #1's in the Final Four. While we all love the upsets and the cinderellas, these four teams matching up in the end would be better than anything we could have predicted and possibly ever seen in the Tournament or more specifically, Final Four.
Plenty of times in the last 28 years all four #1 seeds have been alive for the Sweet Sixteen. Only four times though have they still been playing in the Elite Eight. This season, not only are all four #1 seeds still around, but they are each heavy favorites to win their next game. In the East, most people feel that UNC caught a major break when Kevin Durant and Texas were knocked out of the tournament by USC. While USC would not have beaten Texas if they were not playing great, you have to believe that they stand a worse chance than Texas would have of knocking off the Tar Heels considering the potential impact of Durant. Ohio St gets to play Tennessee in the South region. While Tennessee is a very dangerous team and able to put up a ton of point on the board, they play a 6'3" power forward. Ohio St. has 7'1" Greg Oden in the middle. With this major size difference, Ohio St. has to be considered a huge favorite. In the remaining regions, Kansas and Florida are each playing mid-major teams. Florida is matching up against Butler, while Kansas faces Southern Illinois. Both of these mid-majors have had great seasons, which is how they earned their five and four seeds respectively, but matching up against the very top of the major conferences is extremely tough. The bottom line is that with the exception of George Mason a year ago, the deeper you get into the tournament the more the power conference teams move on and the mid majors flop.
There is one team left in each region that would scare me if I was a #1 seed.
East: Georgetown
West: UCLA
South: Texas A&M
Midwest: Oregon
Georgetown and UCLA are both teams that play exceptional defense and are efficient at the offensive end. While Georgetown beats people up inside, UCLA play more of a perimeter oriented game on the offensive end. Both teams could have made arguments for #1 seeds at the beginning of the tournament and both are picked by many to not only make the Final Four but to win the whole thing. I can not say which team is more dangerous, so I will just say that these two teams are without a doubt the biggest obstacles to an all #1 seed Final Four.
Texas A&M is a veteran team that has played tough all season. They have a tremendous leader in Acie Law at the point, and have proven that they can play big in tough spots. Earlier in the season they went into Kansas and beat the Jayhawks on their home floor. Oregon is a team that can flat out light it up. They have been inconsistent during the season, but they start five guys who can each stroke the three. They have shown the ability that if they get hot, they can beat anyone.
People are probably reading this and saying who cares? First of all it is still so early to talk like this and second of all it this NEVER happens. I don't see a reason for why it will never happen in the future though. A 16 beating a one? That will never happen (baring a crazy injury). All four #1s in the Final Four? It is too logical for it not to happen at some point. Why not this season? These four #1s may be the most talented group since the tournament was extended to 64 (65) teams. Think about this, since the NBA instituted its age limit, the college talent pool is back to what it was in the early 1990's. In addition, with so many kids going to college with the only intention of leaving after one or two seasons, the big programs are just stockpiling crazy talent knowing that they do not have to worry about keeping a spot for a kid for four years. This is the same reason that mid-majors have been able to have more success in the tournament in the earlier rounds. The mid-majors are recruiting more of the players that are staying three and four years, thus that experience pays off early in the tournament. As the tournament progresses though, the talent usually wins out.
UNC and Kansas have two of the more talented squads of recent memory. They each can play at any tempo, can score on the inside or outside, rebound the ball and play tough defense. They each go at least 10 deep and can be characterized as relentless in their approach on the court in that they keep on coming with more players and intensity through out a every game. Both teams could have multiple first round draft picks this June and should have enough firepower to compete at a high level next season no matter which players elect to leave for the NBA.
Ohio St. meanwhile has possibly the most unique player to see the college game since Tim Duncan or even Shaquille O'Neal. While Greg Oden is still very raw on the offensive end, he was still able to lead the team in scoring, dropping 16ppg while shooting 60%. His greater impact can be felt on the defensive end though where he averages over three blocks per game. While he is not nearly the only talent they have, he is what makes this team different from any of the past number of years. No team or player can truly match-up with Oden, and every game he has the potential to absolutely take over.
The last of the #1 seeds is the University of Florida. They are the defending champs and have the entire starting five back from their championship team of a year ago. This has not happened in a long time. Every team going back to at least the 1994 Arkansas team either started seniors or had players leave early for the NBA. This team is as battle tested as they come and they seem to play as well as they need to until they have to reach another gear, which they always seem to be able to do. They have three sure NBA first round picks and a coach who has been to two national title games, winning one. While they do not have the depth of other teams, they have crazy talent and unmatched experience.
Will all four of these teams make the final four? Judging by history, probably not. As evidenced by above though, I feel that these #1 seeds are as good of a group as the tournament has seen. We all know from watching this tournament that anything can happen. For the first time ever though, anything could be four #1's in the Final Four. While we all love the upsets and the cinderellas, these four teams matching up in the end would be better than anything we could have predicted and possibly ever seen in the Tournament or more specifically, Final Four.
Randoms
I am so impressed with Al Horford, but I still think Noah is the leader of that Floria ballclub. They feed off of his energy on both ends of the court. Both should be top 10 picks in this upcoming draft.
The East teams are all but giving the Knicks a playoff spot, but they don't seem to want it. No matter what happens this season though, it will be interesting to see how the organization treats Isiah next season when they do not show the "significant" progress of this season.
How tough of a spot are the Minnesota Twins in? Francisco Liriano is out this entire season and Johan Santana has this season and next season at which point his contract expires. They need to pray that Liriano comes back at full strength next year and go all out next year and hope for one big run, or look to trade Santana while they can get a boatload of prospects for him.
Addendum to the #1 seed post. Not only do I see the #1 seeds as being so good, but besides Georgetown and UCLA, I just saw the, even at the beginning of the tournament, as head and shoulders above and beyond the rest of the field.
STKAFI (Sell the Knicks and Fire Isiah)
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Tomahawk Choppers
March Madness has officially arrived and within the coming days this blog will most certainly tackle this topic. However, currently, with a few days off for the tourney (the Sweet 16 begins Thursday), Spring is just around the corner and Opening Day less than two weeks away. You can smell the sweet scent of white cowhide flying through the air, vaguely smothered by the stench of the rolling beads of sweat by the massive 300 lb guy sitting next to you who thought it would be a good idea to take his shirt of in the middle of the bleachers on a +100 degree summer's day at the ballpark. Side note, no, I'm not talking about either one of my roommates. Steroids sales are booming this time of year, and Bennifer II just received their Red Sox season tickets in the mail. All this makes me giddy for baseball season, and because of tingling feeling, I wanted to write a preview about a team in the NL East. I couldn't choose which team to write about (lie) so I decided to randomly pick (lie) the team with the best record so far this spring, because as anyone who follows baseball as closely as I do knows that whichever teams finishes spring training with the best record in the spring wins their division during the regular season at least 99.9% of the time (lie). And wouldn't you know it, the team with the best record of NL East teams throughout the Spring so far just happens to be the Atlanta Braves (fact).
The NL East has all the makings of being one of the closest and least predictable races in the majors this year. With four of the five teams all having a legitimate shot of taking the division, it could come down to the finals weeks and days of the season. The Braves, Marlins, Mets and Phillies all have the talent to be crowned division champs, yet all have question marks that can only be answered as the season rolls along. The Nationals are terrible.
Last year, for the first time since 1991, the Atlanta Braves did not take home the NL East division championship. It was a sad, yet humorous season for Braves fans across the country. Sad because it was really surreal not being included in the postseason after 14 straight division titles (excluding the '94 strike year), but humorous at the same time listening to Met fans talk shit after winning the division for the first time in 18 years (we get it, you won one, great, it was bound to happen, the laws of probability made it that way). Much in the way of the make up of the teams within the division remains the same. Their weren't any real major free agent signings or trades and one could argue probably the most improved team during the off season is the Braves. But will that be enough to get them back to the top looking down as the have been used to in the past.
The main question mark with the Braves last year was their bullpen, having blown a league leading 29 saves last year. John Schuerholz, one of the most efficient, yet underrated front office leaders in all of the four major sports quickly changed that, signing Rafael Soriano and trading sweet swinging first basemen Adam LaRoche for Pirates closer Mike Gonzalez (who converted all 24 of his save opportunities with Pittsburgh last year). However, so far during Spring Training, Soriano, who has had arm troubles in the past, still seems to be struggling with injuries and apparently Gonzalez can't hit the broad side of a barn door. It's early, but it could be possible Mikey is already feeling the pressure of having to throw a pitch with something actually on the line. Bob Wickman, who was acquired in August last year will remain the teams closer, with Gonzalez the set-up man and the hard throwing Soriano a sixth and/or seventh inning guy. With these two off season pick ups, the Braves, who had the worst bullpen in the majors last year, could arguably have the best, at least in the NL East in 2007.
During the 14 straight division championship streak, Atlanta had always prided itself on starting pitching, the last couple years have been exceptions. John Smoltz, an absolute workhorse, remains the teams only solid starter. Tim Hudson hasn't been himself the past couple of years, but vows he has trained harder this off season and is bound for a strong year. Chuck James, a young left hander, with a surprising 11-4 record last year after being brought up from the minors rounds out the top three starters. Mike Hampton was supposed to come back from Tommy John surgery after sitting out the entire 2006 season. But apparently this guy could get hurt in a foam padded insane asylum and tore his oblique muscle during batting practice and is out until May. That leaves young starters Kyle Davies and Lance Cormier, along with recently signed veteran (and 2006 All-Star Royals pitcher) Mark Redman fighting it out for the final two spots in the rotation. The starting pitching (outside of Smoltz) seems to be the biggest question with the 2007 Braves.
The Atlanta line-up is poised to have a solid year. The same question remains as last year ever since Rafeal Furcal signed with the Dodgers. Who will lead-off and get on base for the RBI guys (C. Jones, A. Jones and Francouer)? Marcus Giles (a sorry excuse for a lead-off man left to join his brother in San Diego for the Padres, isn't that cute), so it looks like young second basemen Kelly Johnson will take a crack at it. The rest of the projected starting line-up will probably look something like this:
2B Kelly Johnson
SS Edgar Renteria (obviously more comfortable in a smaller market, NL team)
3B Chipper "I named my son Shea because I own that stadium" Jones (who needs to stay healthy but is already in mid-season form by spraining his ankle the other day)
CF Andruw Jones (in a contract year, poised for another monster season)
RF Jeff Francouer (one of the best young hitters in the league)
C Brian McCann (breakout season last year, great lefty swing for a catcher, will bat around .300)
1B Scott Thorman (has some pretty big shoes to fill after the LaRoche trade)
LF Ryan "Rachel Leigh" Langerhans (still fighting out the starting spot with Craig Wilson and Matt Diaz)
Pitcher Spot
The key for this years Atlanta Braves squad will be staying healthy (Chipper and Mike Hampton), solid pitching (Hudson coming back strong and quality bullpen outings), and a couple surprises here and there. If these things can happen, this team has a real shot at reclaiming their division crown.
A few comments on the rest of the NL East:
The Mets again have the strongest line-up in the division, these guys can mash and will need to because the average age of their starting pitchers is around one of my favorite sexual positions (figure it out).
The Phillies have the most solid all around team and finished off strong last year. If they can get decent starting pitching, possibly acquire one more middle relief pitcher mid way through the season and/or one more corner inf/of bat, they could be very dangerous. Plus their manager is on the hot seat, which can be a good thing with a sense of urgency, or a bad thing if they start off slow and gets canned at the all-star break.
The Marlins are very young and I personally feel overachieved last year. They have a great core of young pitchers and solid young hitters including one of the best in the game in Miguel Cabrera. They are very talented but might take a step back and come back down to earth after last season.
The Nationals are terrible. But Ryan Zimmerman will be a player, keep your eye on him.
This race will be much closer than last years and that being said, predictions for the season:
1. Phillies (Just feel like it's their time)
2. Mets (They can rake, but would you want your grandpa pitching for your favorite team? Didn't think so.)
3. Braves (Not enough fire power or starting pitching)
4. Marlins (Too young)
74. Nationals (will probably lose 100 games, kill yourselves)
Couple other side notes for today:
The NL East has all the makings of being one of the closest and least predictable races in the majors this year. With four of the five teams all having a legitimate shot of taking the division, it could come down to the finals weeks and days of the season. The Braves, Marlins, Mets and Phillies all have the talent to be crowned division champs, yet all have question marks that can only be answered as the season rolls along. The Nationals are terrible.
Last year, for the first time since 1991, the Atlanta Braves did not take home the NL East division championship. It was a sad, yet humorous season for Braves fans across the country. Sad because it was really surreal not being included in the postseason after 14 straight division titles (excluding the '94 strike year), but humorous at the same time listening to Met fans talk shit after winning the division for the first time in 18 years (we get it, you won one, great, it was bound to happen, the laws of probability made it that way). Much in the way of the make up of the teams within the division remains the same. Their weren't any real major free agent signings or trades and one could argue probably the most improved team during the off season is the Braves. But will that be enough to get them back to the top looking down as the have been used to in the past.
The main question mark with the Braves last year was their bullpen, having blown a league leading 29 saves last year. John Schuerholz, one of the most efficient, yet underrated front office leaders in all of the four major sports quickly changed that, signing Rafael Soriano and trading sweet swinging first basemen Adam LaRoche for Pirates closer Mike Gonzalez (who converted all 24 of his save opportunities with Pittsburgh last year). However, so far during Spring Training, Soriano, who has had arm troubles in the past, still seems to be struggling with injuries and apparently Gonzalez can't hit the broad side of a barn door. It's early, but it could be possible Mikey is already feeling the pressure of having to throw a pitch with something actually on the line. Bob Wickman, who was acquired in August last year will remain the teams closer, with Gonzalez the set-up man and the hard throwing Soriano a sixth and/or seventh inning guy. With these two off season pick ups, the Braves, who had the worst bullpen in the majors last year, could arguably have the best, at least in the NL East in 2007.
During the 14 straight division championship streak, Atlanta had always prided itself on starting pitching, the last couple years have been exceptions. John Smoltz, an absolute workhorse, remains the teams only solid starter. Tim Hudson hasn't been himself the past couple of years, but vows he has trained harder this off season and is bound for a strong year. Chuck James, a young left hander, with a surprising 11-4 record last year after being brought up from the minors rounds out the top three starters. Mike Hampton was supposed to come back from Tommy John surgery after sitting out the entire 2006 season. But apparently this guy could get hurt in a foam padded insane asylum and tore his oblique muscle during batting practice and is out until May. That leaves young starters Kyle Davies and Lance Cormier, along with recently signed veteran (and 2006 All-Star Royals pitcher) Mark Redman fighting it out for the final two spots in the rotation. The starting pitching (outside of Smoltz) seems to be the biggest question with the 2007 Braves.
The Atlanta line-up is poised to have a solid year. The same question remains as last year ever since Rafeal Furcal signed with the Dodgers. Who will lead-off and get on base for the RBI guys (C. Jones, A. Jones and Francouer)? Marcus Giles (a sorry excuse for a lead-off man left to join his brother in San Diego for the Padres, isn't that cute), so it looks like young second basemen Kelly Johnson will take a crack at it. The rest of the projected starting line-up will probably look something like this:
2B Kelly Johnson
SS Edgar Renteria (obviously more comfortable in a smaller market, NL team)
3B Chipper "I named my son Shea because I own that stadium" Jones (who needs to stay healthy but is already in mid-season form by spraining his ankle the other day)
CF Andruw Jones (in a contract year, poised for another monster season)
RF Jeff Francouer (one of the best young hitters in the league)
C Brian McCann (breakout season last year, great lefty swing for a catcher, will bat around .300)
1B Scott Thorman (has some pretty big shoes to fill after the LaRoche trade)
LF Ryan "Rachel Leigh" Langerhans (still fighting out the starting spot with Craig Wilson and Matt Diaz)
Pitcher Spot
The key for this years Atlanta Braves squad will be staying healthy (Chipper and Mike Hampton), solid pitching (Hudson coming back strong and quality bullpen outings), and a couple surprises here and there. If these things can happen, this team has a real shot at reclaiming their division crown.
A few comments on the rest of the NL East:
The Mets again have the strongest line-up in the division, these guys can mash and will need to because the average age of their starting pitchers is around one of my favorite sexual positions (figure it out).
The Phillies have the most solid all around team and finished off strong last year. If they can get decent starting pitching, possibly acquire one more middle relief pitcher mid way through the season and/or one more corner inf/of bat, they could be very dangerous. Plus their manager is on the hot seat, which can be a good thing with a sense of urgency, or a bad thing if they start off slow and gets canned at the all-star break.
The Marlins are very young and I personally feel overachieved last year. They have a great core of young pitchers and solid young hitters including one of the best in the game in Miguel Cabrera. They are very talented but might take a step back and come back down to earth after last season.
The Nationals are terrible. But Ryan Zimmerman will be a player, keep your eye on him.
This race will be much closer than last years and that being said, predictions for the season:
1. Phillies (Just feel like it's their time)
2. Mets (They can rake, but would you want your grandpa pitching for your favorite team? Didn't think so.)
3. Braves (Not enough fire power or starting pitching)
4. Marlins (Too young)
74. Nationals (will probably lose 100 games, kill yourselves)
Couple other side notes for today:
- Shouldn't have split those 10's Mr. Jones (will this crazy SOB even see the field for the Phins?): http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/wire?section=nfl&id=2804677
- The kid is here through 2009: http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2804691
- KOBE!
- My final four bracket: Florida, UCLA, UNC, Texas A&M.
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