Start:
QB- Jay Cutler CHI (@DET)
Cutler is coming off arguably his best game as a Bear and now goes to face a poor Lions secondary that Tom Brady just burned for 341 yards and 4 touchdowns to no interceptions. Granted Tom Brady and Jay Cutler are on different levels, expect at least a two touchdown day out of Cutler.
QB- Matt Cassel KC (vs. DEN)
Matt Cassel is quietly putting together a tremendous season. 22 touchdowns to 6 interceptions and now gets to face a defense he lit up back in Week 10 (33-53 469 yards 4 touchdowns). May not put up an epic performance like in Week 10, but start Cassel with confidence.
SIT
QB- Ben Roethlisberger PIT (@BAL)
Last week Pittsburgh had to win a grueling game at Buffalo. This is Baltimore and Roethlisberger has a sprained right foot. Although it may be tough to sit Big Ben, a team that only allows 206 passing yards a game, and a 77.8 passer rating to opposing quarterbacks seems like a good time to do so. It would be a good time to call on your backup.
QB- Alex Smith SF (@GB)
Here's to hoping he wasn't already your first option this week. Smith will be facing a team that has allowed just 10 touchdowns in the air this season. With Charles Woodson and Tramon Williams manning Smith's top two recieving targers, expect a long day out of the former 1st rounder.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Surging White Sox
The Chicago White Sox are 35-34 while playing their best baseball and gaining ground fast in the AL Central.The White Sox have won 12 of 14 and are currently riding a 7 game winning streak.
The 8th in a row won't come easy tonight as Chicago has to deal with the NL's best Atlanta Braves (42-29) and Tim Hudson who is 7-2 with a 2.34 ERA.
The White Sox have Mark Buehrle taking the hill tonight who is 5-6 with a 4.71 ERA but has showed signs of life in his last two starts going 14 innings, allowing 14 hits and 2 runs with 1 walk and 13 strikeouts.
The White Sox are currently in 3rd in the AL Central, only 4.5 games back of the Minnesota Twins.
Photo by: blackathlete.net
Marlins Dismiss Gonzalez
The Florida Marlins have fired Manager Fredi Gonzalez.The Marlins are currently 34-36 (7.5 games back in the NL East).
Gonzalez was the skipper of the Marlins from 2007-2010 and posted a record of 276-279 (.497).
The Marlins named Triple A manager Edwin Rodriguez intern manager.
The Florida Marlins 2010 payroll is just over $55 Million, so Gonzalez did fairly well with the resources he had.
The Marlins also fired bench Carlos Tosca and hitting coach Jim Presley.
Photo by: Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images North America)
Friday, June 18, 2010
White Sox Call Up Top Prospect Viciedo
The Chicago White Sox have called up top third base prospect Dayan Viciedo. Chicago designated Jayson Nix for assignment.Mark Teahen went on the DL June 1st with a fractured right middle finger. The White Sox corresponding move was calling up Brent Lillibridge.
The White Sox went with a platoon of veteran Omar Vizquel and Jayson Nix, but Nix was not good in replacement batting only .163 with 1 HR and 5 RBI's. However, most of those statistics were based off one swing against Tampa Bay in which he hit a grand slam.
Viciedo was hitting .290 with 14 HR's and 34 RBI's in 62 games for AAA Charlotte.
Viciedo will not make his debut tonight against Nationals phenom Stephen Strasburg, but will most likely get the start at third base tomorrow.
My question is why wasn't Dayan Viciedo called up right when Teahen got hurt?
Photo by: blogs.suntimes.com
Troy Tulowitzki Out Indefinitely
The Colorado Rockies lost All-Star shortstop Troy Tulowitzki to a broken wrist that will keep him out at least 6-8 weeks according to Tracy Ringolsby of Fox Sports.Tulowitzki injured his wrist when he was hit by pitch by Alex Burnett in the 8th inning of Thursday's game against the Minnesota Twins.
A big loss for Colorado as Tulowitzki was hitting .306 with 9 HR's and 34 RBI's to go with 7 SB's while stabalizing the middle of the Rockies lineup. Also a great defender, Tulowtzki will definitely be missed.
The Rockies are set to start a 3 game series tonight with the Milwaukee Brewers and could also be without star outfielder Carlos Gonzalez who strained his knee while fielding a single on Thursday.
Photo by: sportsalex.files.wordpress.com
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Jake Peavy Injured?
Jake Peavy may be injured. According to the Chicago Sun-Times Joe Cowley, Peavy has "some things in his arm."
That is a very broad statement from Peavy, but not good news for the Chicago White Sox.
Although Peavy has a 5-5 record and an unimpressive 5.62 ERA, he still is a better option than what the White Sox would replace him with. The White Sox have been playing much better lately and can ill afford to lose him.
Peavy's start tomorrow v.s. the Pirates is in doubt.
Photo by: midwestsportsfans.com
Pirates Call Up Pedro Alvarez
The Pirates have re called third baseman Pedro Alvarez from AAA Indianapolis.Alvarez was hitting .277 with 13 HR's and 53 RBI's in 66 Games (278 AB's.)
Alvarez is the 4th Pirate prospect to be called up in the last month.
He may not hit for a great average but does have a ton of power and should make the Pirates line-up a lot better.
Pedro Alvarez will play third base and bat 6th in his Major League debut tonight against the White Sox.
Photo by: zimbio.com
Pirates Designate Iwamura
The Pittsburgh Pirates designated Second Baseman Akinori Iwamura for assignment today.Iwamura batted only .182 with 2 HR's and 9 RBI's in 54 Games (165 AB's).
The Pirates owe him the remaining $2.5 Million on his contract.
Pittsburgh acquired Iwamura last off-season from Tampa Bay for pitcher Jesse Chavez. Chavez was traded a month later to Atlanta for reliever Rafael Soriano.
Photo by: bucsdugout.com
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
My National League All Star Team
Catcher- Yadier Molina (STL) - Not hitting the ball great at a modest .253 with 2 HR's and 28 RBI's, but he continues to play Gold Glove caliber defense.
1st Base- Albert Pujols (STL) - Triple Crown threat? Last years MVP is hitting .309 with 15 HR's and 49 RBI's.
2nd Base- Chase Utley (PHI) - Batting .260 with 10 HR's and 26 RBI's.
Shortstop- Troy Tulowitzki (COL) - Batting .306 with 9 HR's and 33 RBI's.
3rd Base- David Wright (NYM) - Having a breakout season after a disappointing 2009. Batting .293 with 12 HR's and 50 RBI's which leads the NL.
Left Field- Ryan Braun (MIL) - One of the lone bright spots for an underachieving Brewers team batting .304 with 10 HR's and 45 RBI's.
Center Field- Marlon Byrd (CHI)- It was Matt Kemp or Marlon Byrd and I gave the edge to Byrd. He's hitting .329 which is good for 3rd in the NL, has 9 HR's and 34 RBI's while playing a tremendous center field.
Right Field- Andre Ethier (LAD) - Batting .339 with 11 HR's and 40 RBI's while serving a 15 day DL stint.
Starting Pitcher- Ubaldo Jimenez (COL) - Breath taking numbers to start the season and a no brainer pick. 12-1 with a sparkling 1.16 ERA and a 0.98 WHIP. On pace for over 200 strikeouts as well and is putting up a Hall Of Fame type season.
Honorable Mentions:
C- Brian McCann (ATL)
1B- Adrian Gonzalez (SD)
2B- Brandon Phillips (CIN)
SS- Hanley Ramirez (FLA)
3B- Scott Rolen (CIN)
OF- Corey Hart (MIL)
OF- Carlos Gonzalez (COL)
OF- Jason Heyward (ATL)
1st Base- Albert Pujols (STL) - Triple Crown threat? Last years MVP is hitting .309 with 15 HR's and 49 RBI's.
2nd Base- Chase Utley (PHI) - Batting .260 with 10 HR's and 26 RBI's.
Shortstop- Troy Tulowitzki (COL) - Batting .306 with 9 HR's and 33 RBI's.
3rd Base- David Wright (NYM) - Having a breakout season after a disappointing 2009. Batting .293 with 12 HR's and 50 RBI's which leads the NL.
Left Field- Ryan Braun (MIL) - One of the lone bright spots for an underachieving Brewers team batting .304 with 10 HR's and 45 RBI's.
Center Field- Marlon Byrd (CHI)- It was Matt Kemp or Marlon Byrd and I gave the edge to Byrd. He's hitting .329 which is good for 3rd in the NL, has 9 HR's and 34 RBI's while playing a tremendous center field.
Right Field- Andre Ethier (LAD) - Batting .339 with 11 HR's and 40 RBI's while serving a 15 day DL stint.
Starting Pitcher- Ubaldo Jimenez (COL) - Breath taking numbers to start the season and a no brainer pick. 12-1 with a sparkling 1.16 ERA and a 0.98 WHIP. On pace for over 200 strikeouts as well and is putting up a Hall Of Fame type season.
Honorable Mentions:
C- Brian McCann (ATL)
1B- Adrian Gonzalez (SD)
2B- Brandon Phillips (CIN)
SS- Hanley Ramirez (FLA)
3B- Scott Rolen (CIN)
OF- Corey Hart (MIL)
OF- Carlos Gonzalez (COL)
OF- Jason Heyward (ATL)
Monday, June 7, 2010
My American League All Star Team
Catcher- Joe Mauer (MIN) Last Years MVP is batting .316 with 2 HR's and 28 RBI's while playing Gold Glove caliber defense.2nd Base- Robinson Cano (NYY) Batting .368 which leads the MLB with 13 HR's and 47 RBI's.
Shortstop- Derek Jeter (NYY) Batting a flat .290 with 8 HR's and 39 RBI's. On pace for 98 RBI's out of the lead off spot which would be the third most in a single season in his illustrious career.
3rd Base- Evan Longoria (TB) Batting .321 with 12 HR's and 51 RBI's.
Left Field- Carl Crawford (TB) Batting .300 with 6 HR's and 36 RBI's to go with 22 SB's.
Center Field- Alex Rios (CWS) One of the lone bright spots in the struggling White Sox lineup batting .315 with 13 HR's and 32 RBI's to go with 19 SB's. A 5-Tool player.
Right Field- Josh Hamilton (TEX) Batting .315 with 15 HR's and 47 RBI's.
Designated Hitter- Vladimir Guerrero (TEX) Proving he's got a lot left in the tank at 35 years old batting .336 with 14 HR's and 54 RBI's which is good for 2nd in the MLB.
Starting Pitcher- David Price (TB) Leads the AL lead with 10 Wins, and leads the AL in ERA (2.31) at only 24 years old.
Honorable Mentions:
C- Jorge Posada (NYY)
1B- Justin Morneau (MIN)
2B- Dustin Pedroia (BOS)
SS- Alex Gonzalez (TOR)
3B- Alex Rodriguez (NYY)
OF- Ichiro Suzuki (SEA)
OF- Torii Hunter (LAA)
OF- Nelson Cruz (TEX)
Photo by: losangeles.angels.mlb.com
Carlos Silva Improves to 8-0
The Cubs off-season acquisition of Carlos Silva looks absolutely genius.The Cubs received Silva in a deal that sent Milton Bradley to Seattle in December of last year.
Silva improved to 8-0 today and trimmed his ERA to 2.93. His WHIP stands at 1.06 and he looks like a flat out all star.
Bradley, on the other hand is hitting .211 with 3 HR's and 21 RBI's.
Who do you think won this deal?
The Chicago Cubs currently sit 3rd at 7 games back in the NL Central with a 26-31 record behind St. Louis and Cincinnati.
Photo by: hardballtalk.nbcsports.com
Brewers Release Struggling Suppan
The Milwaukee Brewers released Jeff Suppan today. Suppan signed a 4 year $42 Million deal in 2006.In 4 years with the Brewers, Suppan posted a 29-36 record to go with a 5.08 ERA. He made 97 starts but his numbers started to steadily decline each year.
In 2010, Suppan went 0-2 with a mediocre 7.84 ERA and a 2.00 WHIP. He made only 2 starts and 13 relief appearances.
The Brewers owe Suppan the remaining $8.3 Million of his contract.
Photo by: dailyme.com
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Fantasy Surprises of 2010 (Hitters)
American League
Vernon Wells TOR (OF) - .345 AVG 5 HR's 10 RBI's
Alex Gonzalez TOR (SS)- .324 4 HR's 4 RBI's
Jose Guillen KC (OF)- .361 AVG 5 HR's 9 RBI's
Scott Podsednik KC (OF)- .457 AVG 0 HR's 3 RBI's 5/5 SB's
Nelson Cruz TEX (OF)- .458 AVG 5 HR's 11 RBI's
National League
Martin Prado ATL (2B)- .519 AVG 0 HR's 1 RBI
Chris Young ARI (OF)- .324 AVG 3 HR's 12 RBI's
Placido Polanco PHI (3B) .484 AVG 1 HR 10 RBI's
Jeff Francoeur NYM (OF) .440 AVG 2 HR's 6 RBI's
Chase Headley SD (3B) .448 AVG 0 HR's 2 RBI's
Vernon Wells TOR (OF) - .345 AVG 5 HR's 10 RBI's
Alex Gonzalez TOR (SS)- .324 4 HR's 4 RBI's
Jose Guillen KC (OF)- .361 AVG 5 HR's 9 RBI's
Scott Podsednik KC (OF)- .457 AVG 0 HR's 3 RBI's 5/5 SB's
Nelson Cruz TEX (OF)- .458 AVG 5 HR's 11 RBI's
National League
Martin Prado ATL (2B)- .519 AVG 0 HR's 1 RBI
Chris Young ARI (OF)- .324 AVG 3 HR's 12 RBI's
Placido Polanco PHI (3B) .484 AVG 1 HR 10 RBI's
Jeff Francoeur NYM (OF) .440 AVG 2 HR's 6 RBI's
Chase Headley SD (3B) .448 AVG 0 HR's 2 RBI's
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Opening Day Games
Projected Winners in Bold
Sunday:
American League
New York Yankees @ Boston Red Sox
(Sabathia vs. Beckett)
Monday:
National League
Philadelphia Phillies @ Washington Nationals
(Halladay vs. Lannan)
Florida Marlins @ New York Mets
(Johnson vs. Santana)
St. Louis Cardinals @ Cincinnati Reds
(Carpenter vs. Harang)
Los Angeles Dodgers @ Pittsburgh Pirates
(Padilla vs. Duke)
Colorado Rockies @ Milwaukee Brewers
(Jimenez vs. Gallardo)
Chicago Cubs @ Atlanta Braves
(Zambrano vs. Lowe)
San Diego Padres @ Arizona Diamondbacks
(Garland vs. Haren)
San Francisco Giants @ Houston Astros
(Lincecum vs. Oswalt)
American League
Cleveland Indians @ Chicago White Sox
(Westbrook vs. Buehrle)
Toronto Blue Jays @ Texas Rangers
(Marcum vs. Feldman)
Detroit Tigers @ Kansas City Royals
(Verlander vs. Greinke)
Minnesota Twins @ Los Angeles Angels
(Baker vs. Weaver)
Seattle Mariners @ Oakland Athletics
(Hernandez @ Sheets)
Tuesday:
American League
Baltimore Orioles @ Tampa Bay Rays
(Millwood vs. Shields)
Sunday:
American League
New York Yankees @ Boston Red Sox
(Sabathia vs. Beckett)
Monday:
National League
Philadelphia Phillies @ Washington Nationals
(Halladay vs. Lannan)
Florida Marlins @ New York Mets
(Johnson vs. Santana)
St. Louis Cardinals @ Cincinnati Reds
(Carpenter vs. Harang)
Los Angeles Dodgers @ Pittsburgh Pirates
(Padilla vs. Duke)
Colorado Rockies @ Milwaukee Brewers
(Jimenez vs. Gallardo)
Chicago Cubs @ Atlanta Braves
(Zambrano vs. Lowe)
San Diego Padres @ Arizona Diamondbacks
(Garland vs. Haren)
San Francisco Giants @ Houston Astros
(Lincecum vs. Oswalt)
American League
Cleveland Indians @ Chicago White Sox
(Westbrook vs. Buehrle)
Toronto Blue Jays @ Texas Rangers
(Marcum vs. Feldman)
Detroit Tigers @ Kansas City Royals
(Verlander vs. Greinke)
Minnesota Twins @ Los Angeles Angels
(Baker vs. Weaver)
Seattle Mariners @ Oakland Athletics
(Hernandez @ Sheets)
Tuesday:
American League
Baltimore Orioles @ Tampa Bay Rays
(Millwood vs. Shields)
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Cardinals Trade Julio Lugo
The St. Louis Cardinals have traded Julio Lugo to the Baltimore Orioles for a player to be named later. The Cardinals signed Felipe Lopez to a one year deal this off-season making Lugo expendable. Lugo will play as a backup infielder for Baltimore providing depth behind Brian Roberts who has had back problems this spring and Cesar Izturis.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Florida Marlins 2010 Projection
C- John Baker
.262 AVG 9 HR's 48 RBI's
1B- Gaby Sanchez
.268 AVG 15 HR's 53 RBI's
2B- Dan Uggla
.252 AVG 29 HR's 92 RBI's
SS- Hanley Ramirez
.329 AVG 29 HR's 117 RBI's
3B- Jorge Cantu
.274 AVG 21 HR's 87 RBI's
LF- Chris Coghlan
.307 AVG 12 HR's 68 RBI's
CF- Cameron Maybin
.261 AVG 9 HR's 44 RBI's
RF- Cody Ross
.264 AVG 22 HR's 76 RBI's
SP- Josh Johnson
16-6 3.34 ERA
SP-Ricky Nolasco
14-10 4.18 ERA
SP- Anibal Sanchez
9-10 4.52 ERA
SP- Chris Volstad
10-12 4.48 ERA
SP- Rick VandenHurk
7-12 4.87 ERA
CL- Leo Nunez
4-4 2.66 ERA 33/37 Saves
Marlins 2010 Record 83-79 (3rd in NL East)
The Marlins did not make any "splashy" off-season moves as all of their signings were to minor-league contracts. After losing Nick Johnson, Matt Lindstrom, Jeremy Hermida, Ross Gload, and Kiko Calero, expect a slight decline in 2010 but there should be enough firepower in the offense to help out the pitching staff to make the Marlins a .500+ team.
.262 AVG 9 HR's 48 RBI's
1B- Gaby Sanchez
.268 AVG 15 HR's 53 RBI's
2B- Dan Uggla
.252 AVG 29 HR's 92 RBI's
SS- Hanley Ramirez
.329 AVG 29 HR's 117 RBI's
3B- Jorge Cantu
.274 AVG 21 HR's 87 RBI's
LF- Chris Coghlan
.307 AVG 12 HR's 68 RBI's
CF- Cameron Maybin
.261 AVG 9 HR's 44 RBI's
RF- Cody Ross
.264 AVG 22 HR's 76 RBI's
SP- Josh Johnson
16-6 3.34 ERA
SP-Ricky Nolasco
14-10 4.18 ERA
SP- Anibal Sanchez
9-10 4.52 ERA
SP- Chris Volstad
10-12 4.48 ERA
SP- Rick VandenHurk
7-12 4.87 ERA
CL- Leo Nunez
4-4 2.66 ERA 33/37 Saves
Marlins 2010 Record 83-79 (3rd in NL East)
The Marlins did not make any "splashy" off-season moves as all of their signings were to minor-league contracts. After losing Nick Johnson, Matt Lindstrom, Jeremy Hermida, Ross Gload, and Kiko Calero, expect a slight decline in 2010 but there should be enough firepower in the offense to help out the pitching staff to make the Marlins a .500+ team.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Justin Upton Agrees to a Contract Extension with the Diamondbacks
Justin Upton has signed a 6 year extension worth approximately $51 million today which would keep him in Arizona until 2015. At only 22 years old, Upton broke out for a monster season in 2009 in which he clubbed 26 HR's, drove in 86 runs, batted .300, and stole 20 bases. He is clearly a player on the rise and it would be fair to say that he's now the best Upton in the family.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Cincinnati Reds 2010 Projection
C- Ramon Hernandez.255 AVG 11 HR's 42 RBI's
1B- Joey Votto
.314 AVG 28 HR's 102 RBI's
2B- Brandon Phillips
.272 AVG 23 HR's 81 RBI's
SS- Orlando Cabrera
.277 AVG 9 HR's 66 RBI's
3B- Scott Rolen
.274 AVG 12 HR's 69 RBI's
LF- Chris Dickerson
.259 AVG 7 HR's 46 RBI's
CF- Drew Stubbs
.245 AVG 18 HR's 65 RBI's
RF- Jay Bruce
.251 AVG 29 HR's 71 RBI's
SP- Aaron Harang
11-10 4.26 ERA
SP- Bronson Arroyo
13-12 4.40 ERA
SP- Johnny Cueto
13-10 4.02 ERA
SP- Homer Bailey
8-13 4.79 ERA
SP- Aroldis Chapman
12-8 3.94 ERA
CL- Francisco Cordero
3-4 2.66 ERA 40/45 Saves
Reds 2010 Record 82-80 (4th in NL Central)
The Reds had a nice off-season by bringing in veterans Scott Rolen, and Orlando Cabrera while also signing the Cuban flame thrower Aroldis Chapman. I think Chapman will get to start right away even though he is only 22 years old. It's tough to send a player to the minors when they are throwing 100 MPH + and keeping it in the strike zone a fair amount. The Reds will slightly improve in 2010, but they are not quite ready to compete for a playoff spot in the tough NL Central.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
St. Louis Cardinals 2010 Projection
C- Yadier Molina.288 AVG 8 HR's 47 RBI's
1B- Albert Pujols
.323 AVG 42 HR's 129 RBI's
2B- Skip Schumaker
.291 AVG 6 HR's 39 RBI's
SS- Brendan Ryan
.272 AVG 4 HR's 34 RBI's
3B- David Freese
.273 AVG 14 HR's 52 RBI's
LF- Matt Holliday
.303 AVG 26 HR's 117 RBI's
CF- Colby Rasmus
.257 AVG 17 HR's 56 RBI's
RF- Ryan Ludwick
.268 AVG 22 HR's 78 RBI's
SP- Adam Wainwright
17-8 3.27 ERA
SP- Chris Carpenter
16-7 2.84 ERA
SP- Kyle Lohse
10-9 4.46 ERA
SP- Brad Penny
12-10 4.29 ERA
SP- Jamie Garcia
11-5 3.94 ERA
CL- Ryan Franklin
3-5 3.38 ERA 36/41 Saves
Cardinals 2010 Record 95-67 (1st in NL Central)
The Cardinals season comes down to how efficient the starting pitching will be. If Carpenter and Lohse can stay healthy throughout the season, they will run away with the Central. Although there was a minor downgrade by losing Pinerio and signing Penny, there is to much offense in St. Louis for them to not win the division.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Milwaukee Brewers 2010 Projection
C- Gregg Zaun.249 AVG. 7 HR's 39 RBI's
1B- Prince Fielder
.294 AVG. 44 HR's 136 RBI's
2B- Rickie Weeks
.259 AVG 17 HR's 49 RBI's
SS- Alcides Escobar
.284 AVG. 4 HR's 46 RBI's
3B- Casey McGehee
.288 AVG 22 HR's 89 RBI's
LF- Ryan Braun
.313 AVG 35 HR's 114 RBI's
CF- Carlos Gomez
.242 AVG 6 HR's 38 RBI's
RF- Corey Hart
.271 AVG 17 HR's 74 RBI's
SP- Yovani Gallardo
17-10 3.42 ERA
SP- Randy Wolf
13-8 3.68 ERA
SP- Doug Davis
12-11 4.21 ERA
SP- Dave Bush
10-11 4.68 ERA
SP- Manny Parra
11-13 4.65 ERA
CL- Trevor Hoffman
4-3 2.45 ERA 39/44 Saves
Brewers 2010 Record 87-75 (3rd in NL Central)
The Brewers won 80 games in 2009 while posting the 4th worst team ERA in baseball (4.83) In the off-season they brought in 2 capable, veteran pitchers in Wolf, and Davis who can help a rotation that needs it. The Brewers will compete for the NL Central and Wild Card but will fall just short.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Pittsburgh Pirates 2010 Projection
C- Ryan Doumit.277 AVG 19 HR's 72 RBI's
1B- Steve Pearce
.245 AVG 12 HR's 54 RBI's
2B- Akinori Iwamura
.282 AVG 5 HR's 38 RBI's
SS- Ronny Cedeno
.244 AVG 11 HR's 51 RBI's
3B- Andy LaRoche
.263 AVG 15 HR's 67 RBI's
LF- Lastings Milledge
.256 AVG 13 HR's 50 RBI's
CF- Andrew McCutchen
.293 AVG 15 HR's 64 RBI's
RF- Garrett Jones
.274 AVG 24 HR's 83 RBI's
SP- Paul Maholm
10-12 4.13 ERA
SP- Zach Duke
11-15 4.29 ERA
SP- Ross Ohlendorf
9-12 4.38 ERA
SP- Charlie Morton
8-12 4.54 ERA
SP- Kevin Hart
6-11 4.72 ERA
CL- Octavio Dotel
2-5 3.45 ERA 29/32 Saves
Pirates 2010 Record 66-96 (Last in NL Central)
The Pirates made a bunch of nice low risk signings in the off-season by bringing in Bobby Crosby, D.J. Carrasco, Brendan Donnelly, Ryan Church, Akinori Iwamura, and Octavio Dotel. They should improve slightly in 2010 but will endure their 18th consecutive losing season.
Houston Astros 2010 Projection
C- J.R. Towles.233 AVG 9 HR's 41 RBI's
1B- Lance Berkman
.279 AVG 28 HR's 85 RBI's
2B- Kazuo Matsui
.256 AVG 8 HR's 51 RBI's
SS- Tommy Manzella
.249 AVG 5 HR's 47 RBI's
3B- Pedro Feliz
.269 AVG 19 HR's 74 RBI's
LF- Carlos Lee
.296 AVG 27 HR's 98 RBI's
CF- Michael Bourn
.277 AVG 4 HR's 31 RBI's
RF- Hunter Pence
.284 AVG 26 HR's 81 RBI's
SP- Roy Oswalt
15-12 3.55 ERA
SP- Wandy Rodriguez
12-11 3.44 ERA
SP- Brett Myers
8-13 4.52 ERA
SP- Bud Norris
11-15 4.49 ERA
SP- Felipe Paulino
6-13 5.40 ERA
CL- Matt Lindstrom
2-4 4.33 ERA 29/34 Saves
Astros 2010 Record 68-94 (5th in NL Central)
The Astros lost their starting SS (Tejada), Closer (Valverde), and a strong setup man (Hawkins). Their stars are starting to age and it could be a very long season in Houston.
Chien Ming Wang Signs with Nationals
Chien Ming Wang has agreed to a one year deal with Washington worth $2 Million plus $3 Million in incentives.
---Wang had an injury plagued 2009 and as a result his numbers suffered. He finished with a 1-6 record and a 9.64 ERA. He gave up 45 Earned Runs in only 42 Innings while making only 9 starts. However, he won 19 games in both the 2006 season and 2007 season. The Nationals are hoping the 19 game winner shows up and if he does, this team could have a bright 2010 outlook.
---Wang had an injury plagued 2009 and as a result his numbers suffered. He finished with a 1-6 record and a 9.64 ERA. He gave up 45 Earned Runs in only 42 Innings while making only 9 starts. However, he won 19 games in both the 2006 season and 2007 season. The Nationals are hoping the 19 game winner shows up and if he does, this team could have a bright 2010 outlook.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Chicago Cubs 2010 Projections
C- Geovany Soto .274 AVG 16 HR's 71 RBI's
1B- Derrek Lee
.291 AVG 30 HR's 109 RBI's
2B- Mike Fontenot
.246 AVG 7 HR's 38 RBI's
SS- Ryan Theriot
.289 AVG 6 HR's 42 RBI''s
3B- Aramis Ramirez
.309 AVG 28 HR's 107 RBI's
LF- Alfonso Soriano
.259 AVG 21 HR's 67 RBI's
CF- Marlon Byrd
.288 AVG 19 HR's 80 RBI's
RF- Kosuke Fukudome
.271 AVG 12 HR 61 RBI's
SP- Carlos Zambrano
15-10 3.81 ERA
SP- Ted Lilly
12-9 3.39 ERA
SP- Ryan Dempster
15-8 3.47 ERA
SP- Randy Wells
14-6 3.07 ERA
SP- Tom Gorzelanny
8-11 4.74 ERA
CL- Carlos Marmol
3-4 2.73 ERA 34/38 Saves
Cubs 2010 Record 88-74 (2nd in NL Central)
New hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo helps a club that finished 26th in Batting Average (.255). Pitching stays pat while they compete for the NL Central.
MLB News and Rumors
The Arizona Diamondbacks avoided arbitration with Edwin Jackson by signing him to a 2 year $13.35 Million deal that will pay him $4.2 Million in 2010 and $8.35 Million in 2011. He also received an $800,000 signing bonus.
---Jackson is coming off a career year with Detroit in which he had 13 wins to go with a 3.62 ERA. He really boosts the Arizona pitching staff with Haren and Webb.
Mark Mulder is seriously considering retirement. Mulder has been unable to contribute in the big leagues after having rotator cuff surgery in September of 2006. If Mulder calls it quits, he would finish with a 103-60 record to go with a 4.18 ERA.
Starting pitcher Chien-Ming Wang is expected to make a decision to where he will sign by the end of this week. As of now the Washington Nationals look to be the favorites, but nothing is official.
The Boston Red Sox have been impressed with Daisuke (Dice-K) Matsuzaka so far leading up to Spring Training.
--- Dice-K is usually extremely dependable, but a groin sprain in 2009 held him back to a 4-6 record and a 5.76 ERA. It's good to see he's progressing well, as when healthy he could be a top-end pitcher.
The Minnesota Twins have been very happy with Francisco Liriano's performance in Winter Ball.
---This is great news for the Twins as when Liriano is healthy and in a groove he is great. Sadly for them, he hasn't been in that groove since 2006. He will compete for a rotation spot, and I think there is no doubt that he gets one.
The New York Mets have stated that it will be an open competition between Mike Jacobs and Daniel Murphy for the starting 1st Basemen spot.
---Both of these players are very shaky defenders and struggle against lefties, so there is no platoon possibility. I like Murphy's chances however because he puts the bat on the ball a lot more than Jacobs and in the spacious Citi Field, he still managed to hit 12 HR's.
Chicago Sports
Bulls
Derrick Rose had a successful All-Star game debut as the East beat the West by the score of 141-139. In 15 minutes of action, Rose scored 8 points on 4-8 shooting as well as 4 assists and 3 steals. Not bad for a player who was questionable to play. When NBA play resumes on Tuesday, the Bulls will host the New York Knicks in an Eastern Conference matchup. The Bulls come out of the break with a 25-26 record, which is good for the 8th seed in the playoffs and the Knicks come out at 19-32 which makes them outside looking in for a spot in the postseason.
Blackhawks
After the Blackhawks had lost 3 in a row with Cristobal Huet in goal, coach Joel Quenn
ville decided to start Antti Niemi and that has paid off. The Blackhawks have now won 4 in a row and now it really makes you think who is the guy. The Blackhawks won 5-4 the past two games, both in shootouts, so it hasn't been exactly pretty but the job is getting done. Now at the Olympic Break, Quennville has some thinking to do about who he wants between the pipes come playoff time. What do you think fans? Huet/Niemi? Lets hear it. The Blackhawks go into the break with a 41-15-5 record and 87 points, which is good for 2nd in the Western Conference behind San Jose who has 89 points, but has played one more game.
Thanks for reading today's "30 Seconds Left"
Fans stay with us for more coming up!
The Arizona Diamondbacks avoided arbitration with Edwin Jackson by signing him to a 2 year $13.35 Million deal that will pay him $4.2 Million in 2010 and $8.35 Million in 2011. He also received an $800,000 signing bonus.
---Jackson is coming off a career year with Detroit in which he had 13 wins to go with a 3.62 ERA. He really boosts the Arizona pitching staff with Haren and Webb.
Mark Mulder is seriously considering retirement. Mulder has been unable to contribute in the big leagues after having rotator cuff surgery in September of 2006. If Mulder calls it quits, he would finish with a 103-60 record to go with a 4.18 ERA.
Starting pitcher Chien-Ming Wang is expected to make a decision to where he will sign by the end of this week. As of now the Washington Nationals look to be the favorites, but nothing is official.
The Boston Red Sox have been impressed with Daisuke (Dice-K) Matsuzaka so far leading up to Spring Training.
--- Dice-K is usually extremely dependable, but a groin sprain in 2009 held him back to a 4-6 record and a 5.76 ERA. It's good to see he's progressing well, as when healthy he could be a top-end pitcher.
The Minnesota Twins have been very happy with Francisco Liriano's performance in Winter Ball.
---This is great news for the Twins as when Liriano is healthy and in a groove he is great. Sadly for them, he hasn't been in that groove since 2006. He will compete for a rotation spot, and I think there is no doubt that he gets one.
The New York Mets have stated that it will be an open competition between Mike Jacobs and Daniel Murphy for the starting 1st Basemen spot.
---Both of these players are very shaky defenders and struggle against lefties, so there is no platoon possibility. I like Murphy's chances however because he puts the bat on the ball a lot more than Jacobs and in the spacious Citi Field, he still managed to hit 12 HR's.
Chicago Sports
Bulls
Derrick Rose had a successful All-Star game debut as the East beat the West by the score of 141-139. In 15 minutes of action, Rose scored 8 points on 4-8 shooting as well as 4 assists and 3 steals. Not bad for a player who was questionable to play. When NBA play resumes on Tuesday, the Bulls will host the New York Knicks in an Eastern Conference matchup. The Bulls come out of the break with a 25-26 record, which is good for the 8th seed in the playoffs and the Knicks come out at 19-32 which makes them outside looking in for a spot in the postseason.
Blackhawks
After the Blackhawks had lost 3 in a row with Cristobal Huet in goal, coach Joel Quenn
ville decided to start Antti Niemi and that has paid off. The Blackhawks have now won 4 in a row and now it really makes you think who is the guy. The Blackhawks won 5-4 the past two games, both in shootouts, so it hasn't been exactly pretty but the job is getting done. Now at the Olympic Break, Quennville has some thinking to do about who he wants between the pipes come playoff time. What do you think fans? Huet/Niemi? Lets hear it. The Blackhawks go into the break with a 41-15-5 record and 87 points, which is good for 2nd in the Western Conference behind San Jose who has 89 points, but has played one more game.Thanks for reading today's "30 Seconds Left"
Fans stay with us for more coming up!
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
MLB News and Rumors
-Pitchers and Catchers report in 6 days. Hard to believe it's time for America's Pastime again, but were all anxious and ready for it!
The Seattle Mariners re-signed Erik Bedard to a one year deal worth $1.5 Million guaranteed with a mutual option for 2011 worth $8 Million. His incentives are based on games and if he could achieve that he will be recieving around $8.5 Million
---It is unlikely Bedard will recieve the incentives if he keeps up his recent trend (15 starts the past 2 years). If he does however, it would make for a serious AL West contender, as well as the best 1-2-3 in baseball.The Minnesota Twins signed Orlando Hudson to a one year deal worth $5 Million.
---The Twins fill a big gap with this signing. Hudson is coming off a solid 2009 campaign where he hit .283 with 9 HR's and 62 RBI's in 149 games. He will be replacing Nick Punto as the starter at 2nd base. Punto only hit .228 last season and although he has great defense, Hudson brings the same.
The Toronto Blue Jays signed Kevin Gregg to a one year deal worth $2.75 Million with a club option for 2011.
--- Gregg has lost the closing role with 2 different teams, 2 years in a row. Last year he really struggled with the Cubs going 5-6 with a 4.72 while converting on only 23/30 saves. Even with his recent struggles, he will still battle for the closers role with Jason Frasor, and Scott Downs.
The New York Mets signed Mike Jacobs to a minor league deal. The deal would pay Jacobs $900,000 if he's in the Majors and he has another $1.15 Million in incentives.
--- A decent low risk signing by the Mets. Jacobs had another disappointing season last year with the Royals where he hit only .228 with 19 HR's and 61 RBI's in 128 games. Jacobs is more known for his power than anything else and hitting in Citi Field will make it very tough on him. He will most likely start at first base for New York in 2010.
The San Francisco Giants signed Todd Wellemeyer to a minor league deal with an invite to spring training.
---Wellemeyer went 7-10 with a dismal 5.89 ERA in 28 games (21 starts) with the Cardinals last season. He will compete for the 5th spot in the rotation. With top prospect Madison Bumgarner ready however, it is unlikely Wellemeyer will make the rotation. Expect him to be a long-reliever come Opening Day.
MLB News
Tom Glavine has retired today. The future Hall of Fame pitcher won a career 305 games which is 4th best among left handed pitchers all time. He has now taken a job with the Atlanta Braves as a special assistant to Braves president John Schuerholz. Congrats to Tom Glavine for a tremendous career and good luck to him.
The Brewers have still not come to an agreement with OF Corey Hart. There will be an official ruling tomorrow regarding his contract.
I am shocked no team has taken a "flier" on Jermaine Dye yet. Dye hit only .250 last year but smashed 25 HR's and drove in 81 runs. His 2009 second half major decline was so severe and that could be a big reason why he is not signed yet. You just have to wonder if he has finally "hit a wall" at age 36.
Kyle Farnsworth may get a chance to start this season with the Kansas City Royals. The 33 year old Farnsworth has only started 26 games in his career and all of those came in his first 2 seasons with the Cubs back in 1999 and 2000. Interesting decision by the Royals but it's worth a shot.
Chicago Sports
The Chicago Bulls were "embarrassed" on their home court last night against the Orlando Magic as they lost by the score of 107-87. The Bulls are still hanging onto the 8th seed in the Eastern Conference. Bigger news from the Bulls loss however, was that All-Star Derrick Rose left the game in the 1st quarter due to a bruised hip. Luckily it is nothing serious and Rose may still play in the All Star game this Sunday.
The Chicago Blackhawks have now won 2 in a row after beating the Dallas Stars at home by the score of 4-3 in a Shootout. Antti Niemi made only 24/27 saves, but made all 5 saves in the shootout and Kris Versteeg got the game winning goal. Niemi has now started 2 games in a row and with a back to back coming up, then the Olympic Break, expect Niemi and Huet to split it. The goaltending battle continues in Chicago, but the Blackhawks keep on rolling.
Thanks for reading this weeks "30 Seconds Left"
Fans stay with us for more next week!
-Pitchers and Catchers report in 6 days. Hard to believe it's time for America's Pastime again, but were all anxious and ready for it!
The Seattle Mariners re-signed Erik Bedard to a one year deal worth $1.5 Million guaranteed with a mutual option for 2011 worth $8 Million. His incentives are based on games and if he could achieve that he will be recieving around $8.5 Million
---It is unlikely Bedard will recieve the incentives if he keeps up his recent trend (15 starts the past 2 years). If he does however, it would make for a serious AL West contender, as well as the best 1-2-3 in baseball.The Minnesota Twins signed Orlando Hudson to a one year deal worth $5 Million.
---The Twins fill a big gap with this signing. Hudson is coming off a solid 2009 campaign where he hit .283 with 9 HR's and 62 RBI's in 149 games. He will be replacing Nick Punto as the starter at 2nd base. Punto only hit .228 last season and although he has great defense, Hudson brings the same.
The Toronto Blue Jays signed Kevin Gregg to a one year deal worth $2.75 Million with a club option for 2011.
--- Gregg has lost the closing role with 2 different teams, 2 years in a row. Last year he really struggled with the Cubs going 5-6 with a 4.72 while converting on only 23/30 saves. Even with his recent struggles, he will still battle for the closers role with Jason Frasor, and Scott Downs.
The New York Mets signed Mike Jacobs to a minor league deal. The deal would pay Jacobs $900,000 if he's in the Majors and he has another $1.15 Million in incentives.
--- A decent low risk signing by the Mets. Jacobs had another disappointing season last year with the Royals where he hit only .228 with 19 HR's and 61 RBI's in 128 games. Jacobs is more known for his power than anything else and hitting in Citi Field will make it very tough on him. He will most likely start at first base for New York in 2010.
The San Francisco Giants signed Todd Wellemeyer to a minor league deal with an invite to spring training.
---Wellemeyer went 7-10 with a dismal 5.89 ERA in 28 games (21 starts) with the Cardinals last season. He will compete for the 5th spot in the rotation. With top prospect Madison Bumgarner ready however, it is unlikely Wellemeyer will make the rotation. Expect him to be a long-reliever come Opening Day.
MLB News
Tom Glavine has retired today. The future Hall of Fame pitcher won a career 305 games which is 4th best among left handed pitchers all time. He has now taken a job with the Atlanta Braves as a special assistant to Braves president John Schuerholz. Congrats to Tom Glavine for a tremendous career and good luck to him.
The Brewers have still not come to an agreement with OF Corey Hart. There will be an official ruling tomorrow regarding his contract.
I am shocked no team has taken a "flier" on Jermaine Dye yet. Dye hit only .250 last year but smashed 25 HR's and drove in 81 runs. His 2009 second half major decline was so severe and that could be a big reason why he is not signed yet. You just have to wonder if he has finally "hit a wall" at age 36.
Kyle Farnsworth may get a chance to start this season with the Kansas City Royals. The 33 year old Farnsworth has only started 26 games in his career and all of those came in his first 2 seasons with the Cubs back in 1999 and 2000. Interesting decision by the Royals but it's worth a shot.
Chicago Sports
The Chicago Bulls were "embarrassed" on their home court last night against the Orlando Magic as they lost by the score of 107-87. The Bulls are still hanging onto the 8th seed in the Eastern Conference. Bigger news from the Bulls loss however, was that All-Star Derrick Rose left the game in the 1st quarter due to a bruised hip. Luckily it is nothing serious and Rose may still play in the All Star game this Sunday.
The Chicago Blackhawks have now won 2 in a row after beating the Dallas Stars at home by the score of 4-3 in a Shootout. Antti Niemi made only 24/27 saves, but made all 5 saves in the shootout and Kris Versteeg got the game winning goal. Niemi has now started 2 games in a row and with a back to back coming up, then the Olympic Break, expect Niemi and Huet to split it. The goaltending battle continues in Chicago, but the Blackhawks keep on rolling.
Thanks for reading this weeks "30 Seconds Left"
Fans stay with us for more next week!
Saturday, January 30, 2010
MLB News and Rumors
The Seattle Mariners signed OF Eric Byrnes to a 1 year deal worth the league minimum $400,000. The Arizona Diamondbacks will pay the rest of his $11 million contract.
---This is an interesting deal for the Mariners as they have just signed an injury prone 4th outfielder. They got him cheap and if he can stay healthy he is very effective. Seattle has now brought in two outfielders this off-season, the first being Milton Bradley.
The Texas Rangers re-signed Scott Feldman to a 1 year deal worth around $2.4 Million.
---Feldman had a breakout year last season with a team high 17 wins to go with a solid 4.08 ERA. He will be the "ace" of the Rangers staff in 2010.
The Florida Marlins signed Derrick Turnbow to a 1 year deal worth $600,000. Turnbow will only recieve the paycheck if he makes the team. He could get a bonus of $5o,000 in incentives as well.
---The former All-Star Milwaukee Brewers closer will get another chance with the Marlins. I am a little shocked that so many teams went after Derrick Turnbow. He has been injured and when he's been healthy he has struggled. Turnbow's best year came in 2005 when he went 7-1 with a 1.74 ERA to go with 39 saves in 43 opportunities. If he makes the team, he most likely will be a middle-reliever.
The New York Mets have signed Frank Catalanotto to a minor league deal with an invite to spring training.
---This is one of the bigger Mets signings this offseason. They were passed up on players like Bengie Molina, Joel Pineiro, John Smoltz and even more. With this signing however, the Mets are getting a very underrated bench player. He is a very respectable career .292 hitter and should easily make the 25 man roster.
MLB News
According to Tom Haudricourt of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Jim Edmonds has been hitting with former teammate Albert Pujols to prepare for the 2010 season.
---Who better than Albert? Jim Edmonds must be looking for a strong return in 2010. Brewers fans should be very happy about this news.
Justin Verlander was reportedly offered a 5 year $75 million extension. He has yet to respond.
---Verlander said he wanted a 6 year deal, but this seems like a great deal for him and I would expect him to sign sometime in the near future.
Joe Crede is apparently unlikely to re-sign with the Minnesota Twins according Joe Christensen of the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
---I'm not sure where Crede could land at this point, but it may have to be a minor league deal because of his injury problems and struggles at the plate when healthy.
Chicago Sports
The Chicago Bulls have now won a season high 5 games in a row after beating the New Orleans Hornets 108-106 in overtime. The Bulls finished the tough west road trip a solid 5-2. The Bulls are now tied with Charlotte for the 6 seed in the Eastern Conference sitting at 23-22.
The Chicago Blackhawks lost for the 3rd time in 6 games tonight as the Carolina Hurricanes won at home 4-2. Cristobal Huet was only 20-24 in saves which spells a start for Niemi on Wednesday against the Blues. Hossa had 1 goal and 1 assist in the loss and now has 30 points in 32 games for the season.
Thanks for reading today's "30 Seconds Left"
Fans stay with us for more tomorrow!
The Seattle Mariners signed OF Eric Byrnes to a 1 year deal worth the league minimum $400,000. The Arizona Diamondbacks will pay the rest of his $11 million contract.
---This is an interesting deal for the Mariners as they have just signed an injury prone 4th outfielder. They got him cheap and if he can stay healthy he is very effective. Seattle has now brought in two outfielders this off-season, the first being Milton Bradley.
The Texas Rangers re-signed Scott Feldman to a 1 year deal worth around $2.4 Million.
---Feldman had a breakout year last season with a team high 17 wins to go with a solid 4.08 ERA. He will be the "ace" of the Rangers staff in 2010.
The Florida Marlins signed Derrick Turnbow to a 1 year deal worth $600,000. Turnbow will only recieve the paycheck if he makes the team. He could get a bonus of $5o,000 in incentives as well.
---The former All-Star Milwaukee Brewers closer will get another chance with the Marlins. I am a little shocked that so many teams went after Derrick Turnbow. He has been injured and when he's been healthy he has struggled. Turnbow's best year came in 2005 when he went 7-1 with a 1.74 ERA to go with 39 saves in 43 opportunities. If he makes the team, he most likely will be a middle-reliever.
The New York Mets have signed Frank Catalanotto to a minor league deal with an invite to spring training.
---This is one of the bigger Mets signings this offseason. They were passed up on players like Bengie Molina, Joel Pineiro, John Smoltz and even more. With this signing however, the Mets are getting a very underrated bench player. He is a very respectable career .292 hitter and should easily make the 25 man roster.
MLB News
According to Tom Haudricourt of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Jim Edmonds has been hitting with former teammate Albert Pujols to prepare for the 2010 season.
---Who better than Albert? Jim Edmonds must be looking for a strong return in 2010. Brewers fans should be very happy about this news.
Justin Verlander was reportedly offered a 5 year $75 million extension. He has yet to respond.
---Verlander said he wanted a 6 year deal, but this seems like a great deal for him and I would expect him to sign sometime in the near future.
Joe Crede is apparently unlikely to re-sign with the Minnesota Twins according Joe Christensen of the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
---I'm not sure where Crede could land at this point, but it may have to be a minor league deal because of his injury problems and struggles at the plate when healthy.
Chicago Sports
The Chicago Bulls have now won a season high 5 games in a row after beating the New Orleans Hornets 108-106 in overtime. The Bulls finished the tough west road trip a solid 5-2. The Bulls are now tied with Charlotte for the 6 seed in the Eastern Conference sitting at 23-22.
The Chicago Blackhawks lost for the 3rd time in 6 games tonight as the Carolina Hurricanes won at home 4-2. Cristobal Huet was only 20-24 in saves which spells a start for Niemi on Wednesday against the Blues. Hossa had 1 goal and 1 assist in the loss and now has 30 points in 32 games for the season.
Thanks for reading today's "30 Seconds Left"
Fans stay with us for more tomorrow!
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
MLB News and Rumors
The Chicago Cubs have signed Xavier Nady to a 1 Year Deal worth $3.30 Million plus $2 Million in incentives for games played according to Sports Illustrated's Jon Heyman.
---When Xavier Nady is healthy, he is a very solid player. He is coming off an injury plagued 2009, but in his last full season (2008) he hit .305 with 25 HR's and 97 RBI's. I think this is a great signing by the Cubs because if someone were to go down to injury or someone doesn't play well, you have a viable replacement.
Ben Sheets has signed a 1 Year Deal worth $10 Million plus incentives according to Sports Illustrated's Jon Heyman.
---The long time ace with the Brewers moves to the AL. That is a great deal for Sheets considering he missed the entire 2009 season. Sheets has a career 86-83 record to go with a 3.72 ERA. Sheets has made 30+ starts in only 4 of his 8 years in the big leagues. If he can stay healthy though, he will make a big time impact for the A's.
The St. Louis Cardinals signed Rich Hill with an invitation to Spring Training.
---Hill was 3-3 with a 7.80 ERA in 13 starts with the Orioles last season. If anybody can fix a pitcher it's Dave Duncan. Rich Hill showed flashes of brilliance with the Cubs in 2007 with an 11-8 record and a 3.92 ERA. If Hill could somehow get back into that form, the Cardinals would have a solid back end of the rotation starter.
The Los Angeles Dodgers re-signed Ronnie Belliard to a 1 year deal worth $825,000.
---I really like this signing for the Dodgers as they are bringing back a great utility player who hit .351 with 5 HR's in 24 games. He is a good clubhouse guy, and if someone were to go down to injury in the infield, Belliard could step up.
Rumors around the League
Although Ben Sheets signed today, the A's are still trying to go after Johnny Damon. It was supposed to be a one or the other situation but it doesn't look like Oakland wants to settle for 1. If the A's offer more than 2 Million (what the Yankees offered) I would not be surprised to see Damon with Oakland.
Chicago Sports
-The Chicago Bears are now having a tough time hiring an offensive coordinator. Hue Jackson, who the Bears were supposed to interview for the job signed with the Oakland Raiders today. The Bears list is growing short and it is rumored to be because Jay Cutler is very tough to work with. Cutler is a great talent and if the Bears could find a coordinator either in Mike Martz or Brian Billick that want to work with him, that could turn their team around.
Cristobal Huet is officially in goal for the Blackhawks tonight against Edmonton. I see this being a 50/50 situation between him and Niemi the rest of the year until one of them shows they are better than the other (which Blackhawk fans hope is sooner than later.)
The Bulls went to San Antonio and beat the Spurs 98-93 yesterday. Derrick Rose had another great game with 27 points and 6 assists, while Kirk Hinrich also added 18. The Bulls have now won 3 in a row and are now 3-2 on this tough 7 game west road trip.
Thanks for reading today's "30 Seconds Left"
Stay with us for more tomorrow!
The Chicago Cubs have signed Xavier Nady to a 1 Year Deal worth $3.30 Million plus $2 Million in incentives for games played according to Sports Illustrated's Jon Heyman.
---When Xavier Nady is healthy, he is a very solid player. He is coming off an injury plagued 2009, but in his last full season (2008) he hit .305 with 25 HR's and 97 RBI's. I think this is a great signing by the Cubs because if someone were to go down to injury or someone doesn't play well, you have a viable replacement.
Ben Sheets has signed a 1 Year Deal worth $10 Million plus incentives according to Sports Illustrated's Jon Heyman.
---The long time ace with the Brewers moves to the AL. That is a great deal for Sheets considering he missed the entire 2009 season. Sheets has a career 86-83 record to go with a 3.72 ERA. Sheets has made 30+ starts in only 4 of his 8 years in the big leagues. If he can stay healthy though, he will make a big time impact for the A's.
The St. Louis Cardinals signed Rich Hill with an invitation to Spring Training.
---Hill was 3-3 with a 7.80 ERA in 13 starts with the Orioles last season. If anybody can fix a pitcher it's Dave Duncan. Rich Hill showed flashes of brilliance with the Cubs in 2007 with an 11-8 record and a 3.92 ERA. If Hill could somehow get back into that form, the Cardinals would have a solid back end of the rotation starter.
The Los Angeles Dodgers re-signed Ronnie Belliard to a 1 year deal worth $825,000.
---I really like this signing for the Dodgers as they are bringing back a great utility player who hit .351 with 5 HR's in 24 games. He is a good clubhouse guy, and if someone were to go down to injury in the infield, Belliard could step up.
Rumors around the League
Although Ben Sheets signed today, the A's are still trying to go after Johnny Damon. It was supposed to be a one or the other situation but it doesn't look like Oakland wants to settle for 1. If the A's offer more than 2 Million (what the Yankees offered) I would not be surprised to see Damon with Oakland.
Chicago Sports
-The Chicago Bears are now having a tough time hiring an offensive coordinator. Hue Jackson, who the Bears were supposed to interview for the job signed with the Oakland Raiders today. The Bears list is growing short and it is rumored to be because Jay Cutler is very tough to work with. Cutler is a great talent and if the Bears could find a coordinator either in Mike Martz or Brian Billick that want to work with him, that could turn their team around.
Cristobal Huet is officially in goal for the Blackhawks tonight against Edmonton. I see this being a 50/50 situation between him and Niemi the rest of the year until one of them shows they are better than the other (which Blackhawk fans hope is sooner than later.)
The Bulls went to San Antonio and beat the Spurs 98-93 yesterday. Derrick Rose had another great game with 27 points and 6 assists, while Kirk Hinrich also added 18. The Bulls have now won 3 in a row and are now 3-2 on this tough 7 game west road trip.
Thanks for reading today's "30 Seconds Left"
Stay with us for more tomorrow!
Monday, January 25, 2010
MLB News and Rumors
The Oakland A's have entered the Ben Sheets sweepstakes according to ESPN's Buster Olney.
---The A's have a pitcher-friendly ballpark and it would be a nice landing spot for Sheets. I believe there is a pretty solid chance that Sheets will be wearing Green and Gold next year.
According to ESPN's Buster Olney, the A's will go after Johnny Damon as a "Plan B" if they can't land Ben Sheets.
---This would be a great upgrade for Oakland as they could use another power bat after they finished 27th in the MLB with 135 HR's. In the spacious Coliseum, Damon's power number's wouldn't be as great as what he did in Yankee Stadium, but it'd definitely be enough to help.
The Milwaukee Brewers re-signed Dave Bush to a one year deal. The deal is reported to be around $4.2 Million.
--- Dave Bush will most likely compete for the 5th spot in the starting rotation for Milwaukee. I think the spot is his because all he has to do is beat out Jeff Suppan. Both guys struggled mightily last year, but Bush had a great 2008 season and if he could repeat that, the job would be his and the Brewers would have one of the better 5 starters in the MLB.
The Baltimore Orioles have signed Miguel Tejada to a 1 Year $6 Million contract.
---Tejada batted .313 with 14 HR's and 86 RBI's last season. This is not the same Miguel Tejada that played for Baltimore from 2004-2007, but he is a fine addition to the Orioles' lineup.
News Around the League-
Ozzie Guillen has confirmed that Jim Thome will not be returning to the White Sox.
---In 4 years with the South Siders, Thome hit 134 HR's and drove in 369 Runs. Good luck to Jim wherever he will end up which as of now looks like Detroit or Minnesota (2 division rivals.)
Mark Loretta has retired from the MLB at age 38. He will now join the San Diego Padres (where he played for 3 years) as a special assistant to the baseball operations staff. He was a career .295 hitter. Good luck to Mark Loretta after a great MLB career.
Chicago Sports News
The Chicago Blackhawks play the Edmonton Oilers tomorrow and what a lot of people are wondering is how the goalie situation will turn out. Niemi leads the NHL in GAA (1.99), while Huet has shown himself to be inconsistent throughout the year. Look for Huet to get the start tomorrow because Niemi was pulled in the 1st period after giving up 3 goals on 12 shots. It was his first time playing back to back games in his career. I am on the Niemi bandwagon as I feel the more playing time he gets, the sharper he will be. I believe he should be the #1 between the pipes in Chicago.
The Chicago Bears are preparing to interview Hue Jackson for the Offensive Coordinator position. Jackson worked with Baltimore and he did a great job developing Joe Flacco. He would have a tough task next with Jay Cutler who threw 26 INT's last season.
Thanks for reading today's "30 Seconds Left"
Stay with us for more tomorrow!
The Oakland A's have entered the Ben Sheets sweepstakes according to ESPN's Buster Olney.
---The A's have a pitcher-friendly ballpark and it would be a nice landing spot for Sheets. I believe there is a pretty solid chance that Sheets will be wearing Green and Gold next year.
According to ESPN's Buster Olney, the A's will go after Johnny Damon as a "Plan B" if they can't land Ben Sheets.
---This would be a great upgrade for Oakland as they could use another power bat after they finished 27th in the MLB with 135 HR's. In the spacious Coliseum, Damon's power number's wouldn't be as great as what he did in Yankee Stadium, but it'd definitely be enough to help.
The Milwaukee Brewers re-signed Dave Bush to a one year deal. The deal is reported to be around $4.2 Million.
--- Dave Bush will most likely compete for the 5th spot in the starting rotation for Milwaukee. I think the spot is his because all he has to do is beat out Jeff Suppan. Both guys struggled mightily last year, but Bush had a great 2008 season and if he could repeat that, the job would be his and the Brewers would have one of the better 5 starters in the MLB.
The Baltimore Orioles have signed Miguel Tejada to a 1 Year $6 Million contract.
---Tejada batted .313 with 14 HR's and 86 RBI's last season. This is not the same Miguel Tejada that played for Baltimore from 2004-2007, but he is a fine addition to the Orioles' lineup.
News Around the League-
Ozzie Guillen has confirmed that Jim Thome will not be returning to the White Sox.
---In 4 years with the South Siders, Thome hit 134 HR's and drove in 369 Runs. Good luck to Jim wherever he will end up which as of now looks like Detroit or Minnesota (2 division rivals.)
Mark Loretta has retired from the MLB at age 38. He will now join the San Diego Padres (where he played for 3 years) as a special assistant to the baseball operations staff. He was a career .295 hitter. Good luck to Mark Loretta after a great MLB career.
Chicago Sports News
The Chicago Blackhawks play the Edmonton Oilers tomorrow and what a lot of people are wondering is how the goalie situation will turn out. Niemi leads the NHL in GAA (1.99), while Huet has shown himself to be inconsistent throughout the year. Look for Huet to get the start tomorrow because Niemi was pulled in the 1st period after giving up 3 goals on 12 shots. It was his first time playing back to back games in his career. I am on the Niemi bandwagon as I feel the more playing time he gets, the sharper he will be. I believe he should be the #1 between the pipes in Chicago.
The Chicago Bears are preparing to interview Hue Jackson for the Offensive Coordinator position. Jackson worked with Baltimore and he did a great job developing Joe Flacco. He would have a tough task next with Jay Cutler who threw 26 INT's last season.
Thanks for reading today's "30 Seconds Left"
Stay with us for more tomorrow!
Thursday, January 21, 2010
MLB News and Rumors
-The Milwaukee Brewers signed Doug Davis yesterday to a 1 Year $5.25 Million contract. The deal also includes a $6.5 Million option for 2011. A possible $12.75 Million value if he reaches incentives in the 2 years.
--- I believe this is a great deal for the Brewers. Milwaukee is now getting a durable pitcher with a solid 90-97 career record. This makes the Brewers rotation extremely sharp from 1-3 now with Randy Wolf, Yovani Gallardo, and now Doug Davis. The back-end of the rotation includes Manny Parra, and Jeff Suppan/Dave Bush. The Brewers were only 2 games under .500 last year with a 4.83 team ERA. The additions of Wolf and Davis can now make this team a serious contender in the NL Central.
-The Seattle Mariners re-signed "King" Felix Hernandez to a 5 year $78.5 Million deal.
--- Nearly $80 Million isn't bad for a 23 year old, and with this deal the Mariners are bringing back one of the games best. I think Seattle can now say they have the best 1-2 punch in baseball with Hernandez and Lee.
-The Los Angeles Dodgers brought back SP Vincente Padilla to a 1 year $4 Million contract with $1 Million in incentives.
--- I think this is a great signing by the Dodgers. For those of you that aren't totally familiar with Padilla, he used to be known to cause some clubhouse problems, but now that seems as if it's behind him. In 7 Starts for the Dodgers last season, he was 4-0 with a 3.20 ERA. Yes, that is a small time to judge numbers, but it's definitely worth a shot to bring him back and see if he can do it for the duration of a whole season.
-The Pittsburgh Pirates made another solid signing today by bringing in Octavio Dotel for a 1 Year $3 Million contract. Dotel is expected to be the Pirates 2010 Closer.
--- The Pirates have had some bullpen woes the last few seasons and this signing is almost a guaranteed help. The Pirates have really helped their bullpen this season by bringing in a few former Chicago White Sox in D.J. Carrasco, and Dotel, while signing former Angel Brendan Donnelly. All three of these guys for a total of around $6 Million is a great value. Job well done by the Pirates.
-The Texas Rangers signed Khalil Greene to a 1 Year $750,000 contract.
---Greene is trying to turn his career around with Texas after having major issues in St. Louis last season. $750,000 is a solid deal for a player with decent upside if healthy.
Other Rumors
-Jim Thome has now openly said he would like to return to the Chicago White Sox, but Manager Ozzie Guillen has said that he doesn't want a permanent DH. Stay Tuned!
-Eric Gagne will now throw for some teams as he is trying to make an MLB comeback. If his MLB comeback is anything like how he pitched for the Brewers in 2008, he will have a very short leash.
-The Baltimore Orioles have said that they want Luke Scott as their DH, but Scott has said he wants to play defense. Scott gave in to Baltimore as he said he's "taking one for the team." Scott is coming off a career year with 25 HR's and 77 RBI's in only 128 games.
-The Milwaukee Brewers signed Doug Davis yesterday to a 1 Year $5.25 Million contract. The deal also includes a $6.5 Million option for 2011. A possible $12.75 Million value if he reaches incentives in the 2 years.
--- I believe this is a great deal for the Brewers. Milwaukee is now getting a durable pitcher with a solid 90-97 career record. This makes the Brewers rotation extremely sharp from 1-3 now with Randy Wolf, Yovani Gallardo, and now Doug Davis. The back-end of the rotation includes Manny Parra, and Jeff Suppan/Dave Bush. The Brewers were only 2 games under .500 last year with a 4.83 team ERA. The additions of Wolf and Davis can now make this team a serious contender in the NL Central.
-The Seattle Mariners re-signed "King" Felix Hernandez to a 5 year $78.5 Million deal.
--- Nearly $80 Million isn't bad for a 23 year old, and with this deal the Mariners are bringing back one of the games best. I think Seattle can now say they have the best 1-2 punch in baseball with Hernandez and Lee.
-The Los Angeles Dodgers brought back SP Vincente Padilla to a 1 year $4 Million contract with $1 Million in incentives.
--- I think this is a great signing by the Dodgers. For those of you that aren't totally familiar with Padilla, he used to be known to cause some clubhouse problems, but now that seems as if it's behind him. In 7 Starts for the Dodgers last season, he was 4-0 with a 3.20 ERA. Yes, that is a small time to judge numbers, but it's definitely worth a shot to bring him back and see if he can do it for the duration of a whole season.
-The Pittsburgh Pirates made another solid signing today by bringing in Octavio Dotel for a 1 Year $3 Million contract. Dotel is expected to be the Pirates 2010 Closer.
--- The Pirates have had some bullpen woes the last few seasons and this signing is almost a guaranteed help. The Pirates have really helped their bullpen this season by bringing in a few former Chicago White Sox in D.J. Carrasco, and Dotel, while signing former Angel Brendan Donnelly. All three of these guys for a total of around $6 Million is a great value. Job well done by the Pirates.
-The Texas Rangers signed Khalil Greene to a 1 Year $750,000 contract.
---Greene is trying to turn his career around with Texas after having major issues in St. Louis last season. $750,000 is a solid deal for a player with decent upside if healthy.
Other Rumors
-Jim Thome has now openly said he would like to return to the Chicago White Sox, but Manager Ozzie Guillen has said that he doesn't want a permanent DH. Stay Tuned!
-Eric Gagne will now throw for some teams as he is trying to make an MLB comeback. If his MLB comeback is anything like how he pitched for the Brewers in 2008, he will have a very short leash.
-The Baltimore Orioles have said that they want Luke Scott as their DH, but Scott has said he wants to play defense. Scott gave in to Baltimore as he said he's "taking one for the team." Scott is coming off a career year with 25 HR's and 77 RBI's in only 128 games.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
MLB News and Rumors
-Catcher Bengie Molina resigned with the San Francisco Giants to a 1 Year $4.5 Million contract.
---This signing actually comes as a big surprise for a couple of reasons. One is that the Mets had negotiations going on with Molina for a while. The Mets also offered Molina $5 million. It's tough to pass up $500,000 but Molina must have wanted to continue working with the young and talented Giants pitching staff. Prospect Buster Posey will most likely now have one more year of seasoning in the minors.
-Ben Sheets' throwing session was incredible today as one scout said "He looked like the old Ben Sheets", while another said "He threw very well. He threw easy." That is very positive news to his possible suitors being the Mets, Cubs, Mariners, Cardinals, and Rangers.
---I think he will go to the Mets for a couple of reasons. First of all, the Mets just lost out on the Bengie Molina sweepstakes so they have some extra money to spend. Sheets would also be with a big market team that has a pitcher friendly ball park. What more to ask for?
-Dodgers Re-Signed OF Andre Ethier and RP Jonathon Broxton. No problem locking these two up for 2 years each. Ethier will receive $6 Million next season and $9.25 Million is 2011. Broxton will receive $4 Million next season and $7 Million in 2011.
---Obviously great signings by the Dodgers as Ethier is very consistent to go along with being extremely clutch. Broxton did a great job closing last year and the Dodgers are looking for a repeat of that success.
-Tim Lincecum filed for $13 Million in arbitration, while the Giants only offered $8 Million. No matter what happens Lincecum will break the record for most arbitration money for a first year eligible pitcher.
---If anyone deserves the record money it's the back to back Cy Young winner Lincecum.
Thanks for reading today's "30 Seconds Left"
Stay with us for more Tomorrow!
-Catcher Bengie Molina resigned with the San Francisco Giants to a 1 Year $4.5 Million contract.
---This signing actually comes as a big surprise for a couple of reasons. One is that the Mets had negotiations going on with Molina for a while. The Mets also offered Molina $5 million. It's tough to pass up $500,000 but Molina must have wanted to continue working with the young and talented Giants pitching staff. Prospect Buster Posey will most likely now have one more year of seasoning in the minors.
-Ben Sheets' throwing session was incredible today as one scout said "He looked like the old Ben Sheets", while another said "He threw very well. He threw easy." That is very positive news to his possible suitors being the Mets, Cubs, Mariners, Cardinals, and Rangers.
---I think he will go to the Mets for a couple of reasons. First of all, the Mets just lost out on the Bengie Molina sweepstakes so they have some extra money to spend. Sheets would also be with a big market team that has a pitcher friendly ball park. What more to ask for?
-Dodgers Re-Signed OF Andre Ethier and RP Jonathon Broxton. No problem locking these two up for 2 years each. Ethier will receive $6 Million next season and $9.25 Million is 2011. Broxton will receive $4 Million next season and $7 Million in 2011.
---Obviously great signings by the Dodgers as Ethier is very consistent to go along with being extremely clutch. Broxton did a great job closing last year and the Dodgers are looking for a repeat of that success.
-Tim Lincecum filed for $13 Million in arbitration, while the Giants only offered $8 Million. No matter what happens Lincecum will break the record for most arbitration money for a first year eligible pitcher.
---If anyone deserves the record money it's the back to back Cy Young winner Lincecum.
Thanks for reading today's "30 Seconds Left"
Stay with us for more Tomorrow!
NBA Today!
"The Heat were way too hot tonight for the Pacers"
Pacers- 83
Heat- 113
Dwyane Wade was simply brilliant tonight as he needed only 31 minutes to put up 32 points. Talk about efficient.
Raptors- 100
Cavaliers- 108
The Raptors hung around tonight, but LeBron had another MVP effort and it was just too much to handle.
News Around the League
-The Amar'e Stoudemire trade rumors are back. I've been hearing there is now about a 50% chance he'll be traded to a big market team.
-More information as well regarding the possible Devin Harris deal. That latest rumor would send Caron Butler to the Nets. That could help both teams now with Gilbert Arenas being out.
"The Heat were way too hot tonight for the Pacers"
Pacers- 83
Heat- 113
Dwyane Wade was simply brilliant tonight as he needed only 31 minutes to put up 32 points. Talk about efficient.
Raptors- 100
Cavaliers- 108
The Raptors hung around tonight, but LeBron had another MVP effort and it was just too much to handle.
News Around the League
-The Amar'e Stoudemire trade rumors are back. I've been hearing there is now about a 50% chance he'll be traded to a big market team.
-More information as well regarding the possible Devin Harris deal. That latest rumor would send Caron Butler to the Nets. That could help both teams now with Gilbert Arenas being out.
Monday, January 18, 2010
NBA Games and News from January 17th 2010
Mavericks- 88
Raptors- 110
The Raptors have won 7 of 10 and the Mavericks have lost 3 of their past 4. Two teams definitely going in different directions right now and it showed tonight as the Raptors dominated Dallas at home.
Jazz- 112
Nuggets- 119
This was a fast paced game from start to finish and the Nuggets seemed to have an interesting style this game. Get a big lead, let it get within 3-5, call timeout, then get the big lead again. Whatever works for them as they are playing great basketball right now and are showing they can play with anybody.
News Around the League-
-The Milwaukee Bucks are close to signing veteran G/F Jerry Stackhouse. With the team losing Michael Redd for the season, bringing another solid player who's good in the locker room couldn't hurt. The Bucks have also lost 4 of their last 5.
-As the 2010 NBA All Star game approaches, Ray Allen finally spoke his mind. He talked about how players who have been hurt for the full season don't deserve to make it. I agree. Tracy McGrady is one of those names on the list. No doubt that Tracy McGrady is one of the NBA's best when healthy, but he's played a total of 46 minutes this year. I would rather see a player like Brandon Roy or Zach Randolph make it instead of McGrady because they have both led their teams to winning records and they have statistics to back them up.
-The New Jersey Nets have had a tough year this year, and are in line for the first pick in the 2011 NBA draft. The Nets are now having discussions about trading Devin Harris. John Wall (the projected #1 pick) is a point guard like Harris and they would like to make Wall their future. I think trading Devin Harris would make a lot of sense. They are in line to "give up" on this season and prepare for the future. A projected 2011 team could look a lot better than this 2010 team with one position upgrade. John Wall, Chris Douglas Roberts, and Brook Lopez could be a very solid possible core to the team looking to make a playoff run in 2011.
Thanks for reading Today's "30 Seconds Left"
Stay with us for more Tomorrow!
Raptors- 110
The Raptors have won 7 of 10 and the Mavericks have lost 3 of their past 4. Two teams definitely going in different directions right now and it showed tonight as the Raptors dominated Dallas at home.
Jazz- 112
Nuggets- 119
This was a fast paced game from start to finish and the Nuggets seemed to have an interesting style this game. Get a big lead, let it get within 3-5, call timeout, then get the big lead again. Whatever works for them as they are playing great basketball right now and are showing they can play with anybody.
News Around the League-
-The Milwaukee Bucks are close to signing veteran G/F Jerry Stackhouse. With the team losing Michael Redd for the season, bringing another solid player who's good in the locker room couldn't hurt. The Bucks have also lost 4 of their last 5.
-As the 2010 NBA All Star game approaches, Ray Allen finally spoke his mind. He talked about how players who have been hurt for the full season don't deserve to make it. I agree. Tracy McGrady is one of those names on the list. No doubt that Tracy McGrady is one of the NBA's best when healthy, but he's played a total of 46 minutes this year. I would rather see a player like Brandon Roy or Zach Randolph make it instead of McGrady because they have both led their teams to winning records and they have statistics to back them up.
-The New Jersey Nets have had a tough year this year, and are in line for the first pick in the 2011 NBA draft. The Nets are now having discussions about trading Devin Harris. John Wall (the projected #1 pick) is a point guard like Harris and they would like to make Wall their future. I think trading Devin Harris would make a lot of sense. They are in line to "give up" on this season and prepare for the future. A projected 2011 team could look a lot better than this 2010 team with one position upgrade. John Wall, Chris Douglas Roberts, and Brook Lopez could be a very solid possible core to the team looking to make a playoff run in 2011.
Thanks for reading Today's "30 Seconds Left"
Stay with us for more Tomorrow!
Sunday, January 17, 2010
NBA Action From January 16th 2010
Hornets- 101
Pacers- 96
New Orleans had this one in hand from start to finish. Everybody loves Chris Paul, but for some reason I haven't been hearing his name in MVP talks like usual. Now we're just hearing about LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, and Kevin Durant. All very well deserving, but because the Hornets have underachieved a little bit in the first half may be one of the reasons why his name has been left out.
"Wizards were the Kings of the court Tonight"
Kings- 86
Wizards- 96
A statement win for the Wizards coming off of a very disappointing double overtime loss to the Bulls.
"It's always sunny in Charlotte"
Suns- 99 Bobcats- 125
The trade that brought Stephen Jackson to Charlotte now looks like one of the smartest trades in the team's history. Jackson was spectacular again tonight with 29 points and a win that brought the Bobcats back to .500 (19-19). I'm happy for the Bobcats as this looks like a team that plays all around solid basketball and could make for a tough match-up against a top tier Eastern Conference team in the first round.
Knicks- 90
Pistons- 94
The Pistons have now won three in a row after losing a surprising 13 games in a row. Hopefully a confidence boost for the Pistons as I believe that's all they really need. They have the players to turn the team around and fight for a playoff spot.
"The Heat catch the rumble of the Thunder"
Heat- 80 Thunder- 98
My pick for MVP (Kevin Durant) did it again tonight with 36 points and 10 rebounds. Durant has carried his team to a 22-18 record, and if it continues, it will be the first .500+ record in Oklahoma City Thunder team history. They are 2 wins away from breaking their overall win total from the previous season. A very impressive feat for the young Thunder squad.
Spurs- 86 Grizzlies- 92
The Spurs have now lost 2 games in a row to up and coming teams. The bigger story is that the Grizzlies keep fighting for a playoff spot in the Western Conference and they continue to give quality teams trouble. That spells bad news for the top teams in the conference if they make it to the playoffs.
Bucks- 95 Jazz- 122
The Jazz took down the Bucks tonight with an all around team effort. They have the 7th seed in the West right now, but in that tight conference, anything can happen. I think the Jazz will get a playoff spot, but if they end up in that 7 or 8 spot, it could be a tough road ahead come playoff time.
Cavaliers- 102 Clippers- 101
A little bit of a scare for the number 1 team in the Eastern Conference, but as good teams usually do, they found a way to come out on top. A win is a win and the Cavs will take them anyway they could get 'em.
Pacers- 96
New Orleans had this one in hand from start to finish. Everybody loves Chris Paul, but for some reason I haven't been hearing his name in MVP talks like usual. Now we're just hearing about LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, and Kevin Durant. All very well deserving, but because the Hornets have underachieved a little bit in the first half may be one of the reasons why his name has been left out.
"Wizards were the Kings of the court Tonight"
Kings- 86
Wizards- 96
A statement win for the Wizards coming off of a very disappointing double overtime loss to the Bulls.
"It's always sunny in Charlotte"
Suns- 99 Bobcats- 125
The trade that brought Stephen Jackson to Charlotte now looks like one of the smartest trades in the team's history. Jackson was spectacular again tonight with 29 points and a win that brought the Bobcats back to .500 (19-19). I'm happy for the Bobcats as this looks like a team that plays all around solid basketball and could make for a tough match-up against a top tier Eastern Conference team in the first round.
Knicks- 90
Pistons- 94
The Pistons have now won three in a row after losing a surprising 13 games in a row. Hopefully a confidence boost for the Pistons as I believe that's all they really need. They have the players to turn the team around and fight for a playoff spot.
"The Heat catch the rumble of the Thunder"
Heat- 80 Thunder- 98
My pick for MVP (Kevin Durant) did it again tonight with 36 points and 10 rebounds. Durant has carried his team to a 22-18 record, and if it continues, it will be the first .500+ record in Oklahoma City Thunder team history. They are 2 wins away from breaking their overall win total from the previous season. A very impressive feat for the young Thunder squad.
Spurs- 86 Grizzlies- 92
The Spurs have now lost 2 games in a row to up and coming teams. The bigger story is that the Grizzlies keep fighting for a playoff spot in the Western Conference and they continue to give quality teams trouble. That spells bad news for the top teams in the conference if they make it to the playoffs.
Bucks- 95 Jazz- 122
The Jazz took down the Bucks tonight with an all around team effort. They have the 7th seed in the West right now, but in that tight conference, anything can happen. I think the Jazz will get a playoff spot, but if they end up in that 7 or 8 spot, it could be a tough road ahead come playoff time.
Cavaliers- 102 Clippers- 101
A little bit of a scare for the number 1 team in the Eastern Conference, but as good teams usually do, they found a way to come out on top. A win is a win and the Cavs will take them anyway they could get 'em.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Baseball Rumors and More!
Baseball Off-Season News!
- The Tigers found their closer Jose Valverde signed a 2 year 14 Million dollar deal.
-Cubs can very well land Ben Sheets. Ben Sheets wants 14 Million but the Cubs aren't willing to go that far as they just want to sign him to an incentive laden deal.
-Mark Mulder to the Brewers? Can the injury prone pitcher turn his game back around in Milwaukee?
-Adam LaRoche to Diamondbacks. Maybe their one power hitter away. Here he is. Does that end the future in Arizona for Byrnes?
-Former Brewers Closer Derrick Turnbow (7-1 1.74 ERA 39 Saves in '05) will throw for 16 teams within the week. He's trying to prove he has the stuff to make a comeback still clocking it at 92+ MPH.
-To Johnny Damon: It's very obvious that Boras is trying to build a market for Johnny Damon, but the reality is the best choice is to go back to New York, but he'll most likely have to sacrifice some money. He's 36 years old and with New York he could be in a winning situation.
-Brewers Signed Norris Hopper yesterday. Fans around baseball don't think much of this but the Former Red has great speed and can make things happen. There is no more Mike Cameron in center and with the inconsistent play of Carlos Gomez, the Brewers may have high hopes on the 31 year old.
2010 Season Predictions
NL Central Prediction
Cardinals
Cubs
Brewers
Reds
Astros
Pirates
NL East Prediction
Phillies
Mets
Braves
Marlins
Nationals
NL West Prediction
Rockies
Giants
Dodgers
Arizona
Padres
AL Central Prediction
White Sox
Twins
Tigers
Indians
Royals
AL East Prediction
Yankees
Red Sox
Rays
Blue Jays
Orioles
AL West Prediction
Angels
Mariners
Rangers
A's
- The Tigers found their closer Jose Valverde signed a 2 year 14 Million dollar deal.
-Cubs can very well land Ben Sheets. Ben Sheets wants 14 Million but the Cubs aren't willing to go that far as they just want to sign him to an incentive laden deal.
-Mark Mulder to the Brewers? Can the injury prone pitcher turn his game back around in Milwaukee?
-Adam LaRoche to Diamondbacks. Maybe their one power hitter away. Here he is. Does that end the future in Arizona for Byrnes?
-Former Brewers Closer Derrick Turnbow (7-1 1.74 ERA 39 Saves in '05) will throw for 16 teams within the week. He's trying to prove he has the stuff to make a comeback still clocking it at 92+ MPH.
-To Johnny Damon: It's very obvious that Boras is trying to build a market for Johnny Damon, but the reality is the best choice is to go back to New York, but he'll most likely have to sacrifice some money. He's 36 years old and with New York he could be in a winning situation.
-Brewers Signed Norris Hopper yesterday. Fans around baseball don't think much of this but the Former Red has great speed and can make things happen. There is no more Mike Cameron in center and with the inconsistent play of Carlos Gomez, the Brewers may have high hopes on the 31 year old.
2010 Season Predictions
NL Central Prediction
Cardinals
Cubs
Brewers
Reds
Astros
Pirates
NL East Prediction
Phillies
Mets
Braves
Marlins
Nationals
NL West Prediction
Rockies
Giants
Dodgers
Arizona
Padres
AL Central Prediction
White Sox
Twins
Tigers
Indians
Royals
AL East Prediction
Yankees
Red Sox
Rays
Blue Jays
Orioles
AL West Prediction
Angels
Mariners
Rangers
A's
Cavs Jazz January 14th 2010
The Cleveland Cavaliers and the Utah Jazz played last night in a thriller. LeBron James has torched the Jazz in his career averaging 32 Points 10 Rebounds and 9 Assists.
Not until a player who has not even signed a 10 day contract yet showed up from the D League. Sundiata Gaines was forced to enter the game with only one practice under his belt when Deron Williams received his 5th foul of the game early in the 4th quarter. Williams was also nursing a knee injury so he would not be able to return. Gaines set a spark early in the quarter as when he was in the Jazz went on a 22-7 run. He needed a break, but the Georgia Stud had to come back. He came back with 5.8 seconds left and made a bang. The play was not designed for him but left open by Anthony Parker, he had a chance. Down 96-94, the Jazz went for a 3, and Gaines was the one to hit as time expired. What'a time for a rookie who has yet to have a 10 day contract.
You would think Sundiata "Gaines" a roster spot after last night right?
Other News Around the League-
-Antwan Jamison to Cleveland? Would that really make this team the team to beat in the East?
-What do you think of the Gilbert Arenas punishment. Is his crime really worth tearing up a 90 million dollar contract? I think a suspension for the rest of the season without pay is enough but the Wizards may not agree. Lets hear your opinion!
-Where is Wade going after the season. Rumors are he just bought his own house in Chicago. Is that a sign?
-The Chicago Bulls beat the Celtics at Boston last night 96-83. This was not a very close game. The Bulls basically had the lead the whole time and Boston came back slowly but the Bulls would not let it get too close.
Thanks for reading today's "30 seconds Left"!
Fans Stay with us for more tomorrow!
-Brett-
Not until a player who has not even signed a 10 day contract yet showed up from the D League. Sundiata Gaines was forced to enter the game with only one practice under his belt when Deron Williams received his 5th foul of the game early in the 4th quarter. Williams was also nursing a knee injury so he would not be able to return. Gaines set a spark early in the quarter as when he was in the Jazz went on a 22-7 run. He needed a break, but the Georgia Stud had to come back. He came back with 5.8 seconds left and made a bang. The play was not designed for him but left open by Anthony Parker, he had a chance. Down 96-94, the Jazz went for a 3, and Gaines was the one to hit as time expired. What'a time for a rookie who has yet to have a 10 day contract.
You would think Sundiata "Gaines" a roster spot after last night right?
Other News Around the League-
-Antwan Jamison to Cleveland? Would that really make this team the team to beat in the East?
-What do you think of the Gilbert Arenas punishment. Is his crime really worth tearing up a 90 million dollar contract? I think a suspension for the rest of the season without pay is enough but the Wizards may not agree. Lets hear your opinion!
-Where is Wade going after the season. Rumors are he just bought his own house in Chicago. Is that a sign?
-The Chicago Bulls beat the Celtics at Boston last night 96-83. This was not a very close game. The Bulls basically had the lead the whole time and Boston came back slowly but the Bulls would not let it get too close.
Thanks for reading today's "30 seconds Left"!
Fans Stay with us for more tomorrow!
-Brett-
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