I have a few things to say about the Celtic/Magic game last night after Orlando finally won a game and the standings jumped to 3 to 1 in favor of Boston. I believe this will be Orlando's only win, and the next game should exit them from the playoffs. The Celtics will go on to the finals and duke it out with the Lakers or Suns in a much better match up. That said, here are my observations from Monday night's game.
TNT's Doris Burke interviewed Dwight Howard after the game and asked how his team finally got a win? Howard said he hot to thank God first and then he hod to thank his teammates. He actually implied that God had something to do with the win.
Now maybe Howard is closer to God than I am, but I can tell you that if God had been favoring any team it would have been the Boston Celtics last night. Dwight Howard used his elbows constantly under the basket and almost knocked out Kevin Garnett twice. Once he even grabbed Garnett by the face and pulled him down to the floor. The referee's did everything to control the game so that a fight would not break out, but even after that, Howard was still furiously swinging his elbows to get rebounds. I don't believe that God would have approved of Dwight's game, especially since it looked like he was trying to hurt someone. Dwight had 32 points and 16 rebounds, which was pretty good, but if God really wanted to help him and his team, he would have had more of Dwight's free throws go in. He was 6 for 14! I think the devil had more to do with that.
Bob
Next game I will lace into the Magic's Vince Carter who played 31 minutes and had 3 points!
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Lions will go 8 and 8
Peter King of Sports Illustrated picked his 2010 NFL ratings (1-32) this week. The Detroit Lions came in at number 24. Not bad since I cannot remember when they were ever out of the thirties. Most of the past years they have been in the number 32 slot.
I don't disagree with the Lions number of 24, which could be pretty close to true, but some of his other picks are way out in left field.
He picks Green Bay at number one. The Packers will probably win the NFC North with very little competition, but to be number one overall is a reach. They have no pass rush and their quarterback (although good), is definitely not one of the top 10 in the NFL.
He picks the New York Jets at number seven. This is too low. The Jets have proved with their defense that they can beat anyone. All opponents will struggle against them offensively. Sanchez will be in his second full year at quarterback and I look for New York to be a dominant and fearless team. Last year made me a believer.
The Philadelphia Eagles seem right at number 15 with rookie Kevin Kolb at quarterback. Giants are 9, Dallas is 10 and Washington is number 20. This division is up for grabs and is impossible to pick a winner. It should be fun.
My biggest surprise of King's picks is Seattle at number 11. Pete Carroll is the new coach and he will never turn this team around in his first year. I don't think the team has made enough changes to improve into the playoffs. We will see.
Now back to the Lions. I am still predicting (since draft day) that Detroit will win 8 games this year. They have done more than any team in the off-season to improve over the previous year, and the improvements will prove to be outstanding.
Detroit will beat Chicago twice, and at home they will beat Minnesota, Green Bay, St.Louis, Washington, and New England (Thanksgiving Day). Away, they will take care of Tampa Bay. Four of these wins will be against teams that are lower than Detroit in Peter King's ratings. You heard it here first. Eight and eight. Believe!
Bob
I don't disagree with the Lions number of 24, which could be pretty close to true, but some of his other picks are way out in left field.
He picks Green Bay at number one. The Packers will probably win the NFC North with very little competition, but to be number one overall is a reach. They have no pass rush and their quarterback (although good), is definitely not one of the top 10 in the NFL.
He picks the New York Jets at number seven. This is too low. The Jets have proved with their defense that they can beat anyone. All opponents will struggle against them offensively. Sanchez will be in his second full year at quarterback and I look for New York to be a dominant and fearless team. Last year made me a believer.
The Philadelphia Eagles seem right at number 15 with rookie Kevin Kolb at quarterback. Giants are 9, Dallas is 10 and Washington is number 20. This division is up for grabs and is impossible to pick a winner. It should be fun.
My biggest surprise of King's picks is Seattle at number 11. Pete Carroll is the new coach and he will never turn this team around in his first year. I don't think the team has made enough changes to improve into the playoffs. We will see.
Now back to the Lions. I am still predicting (since draft day) that Detroit will win 8 games this year. They have done more than any team in the off-season to improve over the previous year, and the improvements will prove to be outstanding.
Detroit will beat Chicago twice, and at home they will beat Minnesota, Green Bay, St.Louis, Washington, and New England (Thanksgiving Day). Away, they will take care of Tampa Bay. Four of these wins will be against teams that are lower than Detroit in Peter King's ratings. You heard it here first. Eight and eight. Believe!
Bob
Saturday, May 15, 2010
My Letter to King James
Dear Mr. James, (May I call you LeBron?)
I am writing you to offer my reasons (all personal to me) for you to stay in Cleveland and remain a Cavalier for the rest of your career. I am hoping that you stay until you are past your prime, have set many more records, and have accomplished all that you strive for in the NBA.
You probably understand the reasoning of the press, the owner, and the Cav fans for you not leaving and heading to another team, like Chicago, New York, or Miami. I, on the other hand can see your point on abandoning a team that seems it will never reach its potential: even with you on the roster. I understand all of the opinions of the parties involved, and I want you to listen to me for just a minute.
First, if you leave, the Cavaliers will go back to a team of the struggling past, with no chance of making the playoffs, a decline in attendance, and little media coverage with little revenue. Do you want to leave like that?
Secondly, you have spent 7 years in Cleveland. It took time for you and the team to jell, and the chemistry has improved tremendously. Why start over? You know what the team needs and you are not far from making it a champion. Why give up now when you are so close? A few more good players, and who knows?
The third point is that it is now fun for teams to play against Cleveland. The Cavaliers have you, and there is always exciting competition with a powerhouse team or even a team that is last in the standings. The NBA has good teams and bad teams. Don't make Cleveland a bad team again!
And lastly, I am not a Cleveland fan. I root for the Detroit Pistons every chance I get. I will not be cheering for you very much wherever you may go. However, I love to watch you play and I think you have done much for the game of basketball. You have been a real good fit in Cleveland, and probably will win a championship soon. How much better would it be to win the whole thing with the Cavaliers rather than Miami or New York? Seriously?
Sincerely,
Bob Camp
I am writing you to offer my reasons (all personal to me) for you to stay in Cleveland and remain a Cavalier for the rest of your career. I am hoping that you stay until you are past your prime, have set many more records, and have accomplished all that you strive for in the NBA.
You probably understand the reasoning of the press, the owner, and the Cav fans for you not leaving and heading to another team, like Chicago, New York, or Miami. I, on the other hand can see your point on abandoning a team that seems it will never reach its potential: even with you on the roster. I understand all of the opinions of the parties involved, and I want you to listen to me for just a minute.
First, if you leave, the Cavaliers will go back to a team of the struggling past, with no chance of making the playoffs, a decline in attendance, and little media coverage with little revenue. Do you want to leave like that?
Secondly, you have spent 7 years in Cleveland. It took time for you and the team to jell, and the chemistry has improved tremendously. Why start over? You know what the team needs and you are not far from making it a champion. Why give up now when you are so close? A few more good players, and who knows?
The third point is that it is now fun for teams to play against Cleveland. The Cavaliers have you, and there is always exciting competition with a powerhouse team or even a team that is last in the standings. The NBA has good teams and bad teams. Don't make Cleveland a bad team again!
And lastly, I am not a Cleveland fan. I root for the Detroit Pistons every chance I get. I will not be cheering for you very much wherever you may go. However, I love to watch you play and I think you have done much for the game of basketball. You have been a real good fit in Cleveland, and probably will win a championship soon. How much better would it be to win the whole thing with the Cavaliers rather than Miami or New York? Seriously?
Sincerely,
Bob Camp
Monday, May 10, 2010
Monday Morning
Saturday the Detroit Red Wings lost to the San Jose Sharks and were eliminated from the Stanley Cup playoffs. Some are saying the series was closer than it looked, because all of the Wings losses were by only one goal. I say, "So what!" Even if both teams were evenly matched, the only result that counts is who wins four games first? The Sharks played well enough to win, and there was no doubt which team played better in the final game. Had the Wings shot at the net a hundred more times, I doubt they would have come any closer to scoring. San Jose was set on defending the net, and they guarded it like a fortress. The result: Sharks 3 - Wings 1.
The big turnaround for the Wings was in the third game, when they were up by two goals in the third period and let it slip away, eventually losing in overtime. Penalties were quite lopsided, but that is all part of the game. The referees control many of the outcomes of the games anyway. One odd occurrence happened in the series, when there were two penalty shots awarded (neither scored), which could have been a record for a six game series?
The Oakland Raiders released quarterback JaMarcus Russell after three unproductive years. Is he the biggest bust of all? He might be, but I doubt it. After reading, "Football's most Wanted", which listed the biggest Heisman Trophy busts of all time. The Detroit Lions had two in the top 10. Chuck Long and Andre Ware. Chuck Long on his only start in a season (1987), threw 11 touchdowns and had 20 interceptions. Wow! The Lions are bad now, but they were much worse then.
Last Note: I have never complained about second hand smoke, having both smoked and downed a few beers over the years. I just recently went to my old bowling-bar hangout and was amazed at the clear, clean atmosphere in the place. It was very refreshing, and noticeable. It was quite different from the stale, smoky, and unhealthy area it had once been. I was surprised. I like the new Michigan smoking law!
Bob
The big turnaround for the Wings was in the third game, when they were up by two goals in the third period and let it slip away, eventually losing in overtime. Penalties were quite lopsided, but that is all part of the game. The referees control many of the outcomes of the games anyway. One odd occurrence happened in the series, when there were two penalty shots awarded (neither scored), which could have been a record for a six game series?
The Oakland Raiders released quarterback JaMarcus Russell after three unproductive years. Is he the biggest bust of all? He might be, but I doubt it. After reading, "Football's most Wanted", which listed the biggest Heisman Trophy busts of all time. The Detroit Lions had two in the top 10. Chuck Long and Andre Ware. Chuck Long on his only start in a season (1987), threw 11 touchdowns and had 20 interceptions. Wow! The Lions are bad now, but they were much worse then.
Last Note: I have never complained about second hand smoke, having both smoked and downed a few beers over the years. I just recently went to my old bowling-bar hangout and was amazed at the clear, clean atmosphere in the place. It was very refreshing, and noticeable. It was quite different from the stale, smoky, and unhealthy area it had once been. I was surprised. I like the new Michigan smoking law!
Bob
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
More Questions than Answers
I really enjoyed the Tigers 5 to 1 win over the Angels on Sunday. Verlander had an excellent game as he pitched a shutout and gave up only one hit for eight innings. He was relieved after yielding two hits in the ninth, for the "closer", Valverde. That's when it got a little scary. it was hard to get the Angels to make the final out, and manager Leyland didn't help very much. I understood letting the Angel base runner steal second base without a throw down, and concentrating more on the batter, but he gave up second base three times in one inning. The Tigers actually gave L.A. their only run, and it could have been worse if the Angels would have singled with runners on second and third near the end of the game. Those runners should never had been in scoring positions. I doubt that Leyland will play this the same way again. It could have turned out nasty, if not down right stupid.
What is it with the referees in the hockey playoffs? The Detroit Red Wings have lost two games to the San Jose Sharks and the difference has been because of penalties. In game two, the Wings had 10 and the Sharks had 4. Not only that, but while the Wings were ahead 3 to 2 late in the final period, they had to go 3 on 5 (two man dis-advantage) for almost three minutes and ended up losing the game. It might just be me, but I have seen much more 3 on 5's this year. Are the referee's helping to determine the outcomes of the games?
Matt Millen had to apologize on national TV last week. He jokingly called ESPN's Ron Jaworski and his fans in Philadelphia, an out of date, tasteless polish word. Things like this just keep popping up, showing what a bad choice Millen was to run the Detroit Lion organization. It would be so nice to not see him awhile, at least until some memories fade.
Bob
What is it with the referees in the hockey playoffs? The Detroit Red Wings have lost two games to the San Jose Sharks and the difference has been because of penalties. In game two, the Wings had 10 and the Sharks had 4. Not only that, but while the Wings were ahead 3 to 2 late in the final period, they had to go 3 on 5 (two man dis-advantage) for almost three minutes and ended up losing the game. It might just be me, but I have seen much more 3 on 5's this year. Are the referee's helping to determine the outcomes of the games?
Matt Millen had to apologize on national TV last week. He jokingly called ESPN's Ron Jaworski and his fans in Philadelphia, an out of date, tasteless polish word. Things like this just keep popping up, showing what a bad choice Millen was to run the Detroit Lion organization. It would be so nice to not see him awhile, at least until some memories fade.
Bob
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Tim Tebow
The Denver Broncos drafted Tim Tebow last Friday in the NFL Draft. Shock waves went through all of the sports media outlets as experts displayed surprise and bewilderment. How could this happen? Didn't almost everyone predict that Tebow would not make it into the Pro game as a quarterback? Didn't Mel Kiper rip into Denver for taking this pick, and calling it stupid?
I have no feelings at all for Tebow, one way or another, but never have I heard such talk about any player not making it in the NFL before he has even had a chance. What do they see that I don't see? He was one of the best, if not the best quarterback in college football. His records are staggering, and he has not been in trouble with the law, abused drugs, or raped anyone. I think he deserves a chance without everyone knocking his mechanics, footwork and passing sharpness before he even plays on a Sunday.
Is the quarterback position so easy to figure out, that before a player even takes one snap, he is ruled as unplayable? Is it such a science that we can tell who will make it and who won't, before the start of their career?
If this is the case, then what happened to the sure prospects of the past, like Joey Harrington, Ryan Leaf, Chuck Long, and Tim Couch? Mel Kiper's worst quarterback pick of any draft was the seventh overall pick, Andre Ware (Detroit) in 1990. in fact, all of these quarterbacks were picked in the first round and all were busts.
I don't know if Tim Tebow will make it in the NFL. I am absolutely positive that no one really knows. Give him a break. See what he can do. He might just surprise a few people. He might surprise Mel Kiper?
I remember a quarterback who did not play in college and had the most unorthodox way of playing that position, and who ended up in the Hall of Fame. In the 50's I attended a game where he handily beat the Detroit Lions 36 to 0 in sub degree temperatures. He holds the record for most consecutive games with a touchdown pass. (47) His name is Johnny Unitas of the Baltimore Colts and is listed as one of the best quarterbacks of all time. I am pulling for Tim.
Bob
I have no feelings at all for Tebow, one way or another, but never have I heard such talk about any player not making it in the NFL before he has even had a chance. What do they see that I don't see? He was one of the best, if not the best quarterback in college football. His records are staggering, and he has not been in trouble with the law, abused drugs, or raped anyone. I think he deserves a chance without everyone knocking his mechanics, footwork and passing sharpness before he even plays on a Sunday.
Is the quarterback position so easy to figure out, that before a player even takes one snap, he is ruled as unplayable? Is it such a science that we can tell who will make it and who won't, before the start of their career?
If this is the case, then what happened to the sure prospects of the past, like Joey Harrington, Ryan Leaf, Chuck Long, and Tim Couch? Mel Kiper's worst quarterback pick of any draft was the seventh overall pick, Andre Ware (Detroit) in 1990. in fact, all of these quarterbacks were picked in the first round and all were busts.
I don't know if Tim Tebow will make it in the NFL. I am absolutely positive that no one really knows. Give him a break. See what he can do. He might just surprise a few people. He might surprise Mel Kiper?
I remember a quarterback who did not play in college and had the most unorthodox way of playing that position, and who ended up in the Hall of Fame. In the 50's I attended a game where he handily beat the Detroit Lions 36 to 0 in sub degree temperatures. He holds the record for most consecutive games with a touchdown pass. (47) His name is Johnny Unitas of the Baltimore Colts and is listed as one of the best quarterbacks of all time. I am pulling for Tim.
Bob
Friday, April 23, 2010
Media on Draft Day
Most of my family and friends think I am a strange person. Not only do I watch the whole NFL Draft, but I actually switch between the two TV stations that broadcast the event. Both ESPN and the NFL Network covered the festivities live, and each treated the affair like a world news event.
ESPN had Mel Kiper, John Gruden, Tom Jackson, Michael Irvin, and Chris Berman. The NFL Network had Rich Eisen, Marshall Faulk, Steve Mariucci, Steve Young, and Mike Meyock. Below are my observations from the first night of the draft.
Although both shows looked identical, (as far as scenery and number of members at the desk), the NFL Network came out a bit better and more comfortable to watch.
NFL's Mike Meyock impressed me the most. He was articulate, and concise. He really knew his stuff, and did much better than ESPN's Mel Kiper. Both know college players inside and out, but Kiper kept getting overshadowed by John Gruden, who talked and talked with such authority that you thought he was the "God of Football." Gruden was really annoying and if you ever watched Monday Night Football, he was a carbon copy of himself. He bragged about the talent of each player like it was the only pick of the draft. Each and everyone (32 times). At times he disagreed with Kiper, and shook his head, as if he was the only one who knew the game of football.
Tom Jackson threw in his remarks every so often, and Michael Irvin, who I can't understand half of the time said some things that left the panel quiet for a few seconds (seemed like a few minutes). Chris Berman seemed lost. At times there were big gaffs in the show with timing and wrong cameras, and you could see he was upset. At times he was a deer in headlights. Once the camera panned on him at the wrong time and he abruptly made hand gestures as if cutting his throat and shooing the camera away.
Berman's counterpart, NFL's Rich Eisen acted calm and collected. He didn't add much, but kept the flow going with his experts on the panel. Steve Mariucci was okay, but I never seem to learn much from him. He tries not to offend anyone and his information came out bland. I was really impressed with Marshall Faulk. You could tell that he had studied and came out with a lot of true gems about the college players. As far as Steve Young, he was okay too, but if he would have gone to the restroom during the show, nobody would have missed him.
Mel Kiper was the only one who came out against Tim Tebow. He is sure that Tebow will not make it in the NFL, and that the Bronco's made a big mistake. He did not hold anything back on this subject, and you knew exactly how he felt. Good for him that he spoke his mind and did not go with everyone else who didn't want to hurt Tebow's feelings or be controversial.
All in all, Mike Meyock was the best on the first night. I could have listened to him all night, and I learned just enough from him not to be overwhelmed. John Gruden was the worst, with his loud, supremacy attitude. He really got on my nerves and I now blame him for my headache after the whole thing was done.
If you have a choice on which program to watch on night two, I suggest the NFL Network.
Bob
ESPN had Mel Kiper, John Gruden, Tom Jackson, Michael Irvin, and Chris Berman. The NFL Network had Rich Eisen, Marshall Faulk, Steve Mariucci, Steve Young, and Mike Meyock. Below are my observations from the first night of the draft.
Although both shows looked identical, (as far as scenery and number of members at the desk), the NFL Network came out a bit better and more comfortable to watch.
NFL's Mike Meyock impressed me the most. He was articulate, and concise. He really knew his stuff, and did much better than ESPN's Mel Kiper. Both know college players inside and out, but Kiper kept getting overshadowed by John Gruden, who talked and talked with such authority that you thought he was the "God of Football." Gruden was really annoying and if you ever watched Monday Night Football, he was a carbon copy of himself. He bragged about the talent of each player like it was the only pick of the draft. Each and everyone (32 times). At times he disagreed with Kiper, and shook his head, as if he was the only one who knew the game of football.
Tom Jackson threw in his remarks every so often, and Michael Irvin, who I can't understand half of the time said some things that left the panel quiet for a few seconds (seemed like a few minutes). Chris Berman seemed lost. At times there were big gaffs in the show with timing and wrong cameras, and you could see he was upset. At times he was a deer in headlights. Once the camera panned on him at the wrong time and he abruptly made hand gestures as if cutting his throat and shooing the camera away.
Berman's counterpart, NFL's Rich Eisen acted calm and collected. He didn't add much, but kept the flow going with his experts on the panel. Steve Mariucci was okay, but I never seem to learn much from him. He tries not to offend anyone and his information came out bland. I was really impressed with Marshall Faulk. You could tell that he had studied and came out with a lot of true gems about the college players. As far as Steve Young, he was okay too, but if he would have gone to the restroom during the show, nobody would have missed him.
Mel Kiper was the only one who came out against Tim Tebow. He is sure that Tebow will not make it in the NFL, and that the Bronco's made a big mistake. He did not hold anything back on this subject, and you knew exactly how he felt. Good for him that he spoke his mind and did not go with everyone else who didn't want to hurt Tebow's feelings or be controversial.
All in all, Mike Meyock was the best on the first night. I could have listened to him all night, and I learned just enough from him not to be overwhelmed. John Gruden was the worst, with his loud, supremacy attitude. He really got on my nerves and I now blame him for my headache after the whole thing was done.
If you have a choice on which program to watch on night two, I suggest the NFL Network.
Bob
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Just Thinking
Ozzie Guillen, manager of the White Sox, remarking on only 10,000 fans at the Chicago/Toronto game, that the Blue Jays should put a few hockey players on their baseball team to get more attendance. With weather probably being the main factor, I would like to tell Ozzie that Toronto just needs better competition. Chicago only has 4 wins, and Toronto has 7 wins, and is in first place in their division. Ouch!
Attending sporting events can sometimes be not as much fun as anticipated. "The Philadelphia Phillies had a fan (not sure if "fan" is the right word here?)get into a fight with a father and his young daughter in the stands. The drunk put his fingers down his throat and vomited over the couple. I have heard some terrible stories of things happening at football stadiums (Oakland-Philadelphia), and this has got to be a new low for baseball. This was disgusting.
I wrote on "Twitter", that the NFL forces NFL teams to speak to the media about the upcoming draft before the big day. Things like, who they might pick? Who they might trade up or down for, etc.,
What a waste of time. Every team tries to be so secretive that news never comes out of these media promotions. Most of the dealing happens in the final minutes, so everyone lies or just tells the same stories that have been speculated from the press. Stop it! Quit wasting our time and theirs.
Five more days until the NFL draft. Got to make some popcorn!
Bob
Attending sporting events can sometimes be not as much fun as anticipated. "The Philadelphia Phillies had a fan (not sure if "fan" is the right word here?)get into a fight with a father and his young daughter in the stands. The drunk put his fingers down his throat and vomited over the couple. I have heard some terrible stories of things happening at football stadiums (Oakland-Philadelphia), and this has got to be a new low for baseball. This was disgusting.
I wrote on "Twitter", that the NFL forces NFL teams to speak to the media about the upcoming draft before the big day. Things like, who they might pick? Who they might trade up or down for, etc.,
What a waste of time. Every team tries to be so secretive that news never comes out of these media promotions. Most of the dealing happens in the final minutes, so everyone lies or just tells the same stories that have been speculated from the press. Stop it! Quit wasting our time and theirs.
Five more days until the NFL draft. Got to make some popcorn!
Bob
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Draft Day 2010 (April 22nd)
Eight days and seven hours until the start of the 2010 NFL Draft. Tick, tick,tick. I know this is not usually very exciting for some of the NFL teams in the league, but for us Detroit fans it is the closest thing to the Super Bowl. We (die-hard Lions)relish every moment, and hope that some miraculous pick will make our team, "not win" the Super Bowl, but just be respectable again. Most of us are not even hoping for the playoffs anymore. 8 wins, and 8 losses would really be a step up, and I believe all of Michigan would go crazy if that happened. It has been such a long, long, long time. I haven't checked on how the Lions rate with the highest picks each year, but over the past 4 years, they have had a number one, two number two's and a seventeen. Five years ago they picked number 9. And for all of that,Detroit won three games in the last two years. But, am I down? Oh no. I can hardly wait for draft day. Then after the Lions make their picks, I will probably be down.
Detroit's number one pick could be Suh, or McCoy, both defensive tackles. I am fine with that, although I think it would be better to give up the pick for two players in the second round and save some money. Either way, I think that Detroit has made some good moves already with free agents, and with a few new draft picks, who knows?
It will be interesting to see how other teams enter the draft this year. The Philadelphia Eagles need a quarterback, and the Minnesota Vikings are waiting on Farve's decision. Again! Plus there are a few new coaches, and it will be interesting to see how Pete Carroll pans out with Seattle and Mike Shanahan deals with McNabb in Washington. Can't wait.
bob
Detroit's number one pick could be Suh, or McCoy, both defensive tackles. I am fine with that, although I think it would be better to give up the pick for two players in the second round and save some money. Either way, I think that Detroit has made some good moves already with free agents, and with a few new draft picks, who knows?
It will be interesting to see how other teams enter the draft this year. The Philadelphia Eagles need a quarterback, and the Minnesota Vikings are waiting on Farve's decision. Again! Plus there are a few new coaches, and it will be interesting to see how Pete Carroll pans out with Seattle and Mike Shanahan deals with McNabb in Washington. Can't wait.
bob
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Opening Day: Tigers
I am still trying to get over the the disappointment that Polanco and Granderson are not with the Detroit Tigers anymore. How long will it last? They are not making it any easier for me. On the first day with their new teams, Polanco had a grand-salami (4 run homer)with the Phillies and Curtis had a lead off homer with the Yankees. Great starts for both of my favorite players in the past 4 years. I am sure I'll be watching many more Philadelphia and New York games this season to see how they progress. Good luck to both of them.
I thought that the new players for the Tigers played well. Sizemore looked a little young and nervous as a rookie, but Damon and Jackson seemed to fit right in. Both had a good start and looked comfortable playing for Detroit. One thing for sure, the Tigers will have much more speed this year and their bench players like Santiago and Rayburn will fill in nicely. Move over Chicago, the Tigers are coming!
It was a nice comeback win for Detroit on opening day, winning 8 to 4. Verlander pitched well enough, but the thing that stood out for me in game one, was Johnny Damon. I was not overly happy when we got him this year, and I knew it would take some time until I warmed up to him. What a shock. He looked like he had been a Tiger for 10 years. He was up-beat, comfortable and really seemed to be the leader of the team. And this was only his first day. I had heard that he was super in the locker rooms of New York and Boston, but I was impressed on how he stood out here. He looked like he belonged on the team more than Cabrera (20 million dollar man) did. This is hard to say so soon, but Johnny Damon could become my favorite Tiger!
Bob
I thought that the new players for the Tigers played well. Sizemore looked a little young and nervous as a rookie, but Damon and Jackson seemed to fit right in. Both had a good start and looked comfortable playing for Detroit. One thing for sure, the Tigers will have much more speed this year and their bench players like Santiago and Rayburn will fill in nicely. Move over Chicago, the Tigers are coming!
It was a nice comeback win for Detroit on opening day, winning 8 to 4. Verlander pitched well enough, but the thing that stood out for me in game one, was Johnny Damon. I was not overly happy when we got him this year, and I knew it would take some time until I warmed up to him. What a shock. He looked like he had been a Tiger for 10 years. He was up-beat, comfortable and really seemed to be the leader of the team. And this was only his first day. I had heard that he was super in the locker rooms of New York and Boston, but I was impressed on how he stood out here. He looked like he belonged on the team more than Cabrera (20 million dollar man) did. This is hard to say so soon, but Johnny Damon could become my favorite Tiger!
Bob
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
More Talk
Ah Spring. This is my favorite time of the year. We have the NCAA tourney, the NBA playoffs and the start of the new baseball season coming all at once. Plus let's not forget about the NFL. Football in the U.S. is talked about all year round. Just check out the sport pages in your daily newspaper and you will find lots of stories about your favorite team, even though the season opener is still 6 months away. What other sport is bantered this much? It takes some doing to get away from the news of the college player draft, the NFL trades, and all of the outlandish scandals. I love it.
I would be willing to bet that Brett Farve does not play football this year. However, if he does, he will not end up playing the whole season. He is so undecided that a disappointing start for the Vikings will send him to retirement. Again!
I don't know if Donovan McNabb is going to the Oakland Raiders. I really believe though, that he will not be with the Philadelphia Eagles this year. My reasoning is that if he were to stay, Michael Vick would already be gone. The Eagles have given up on McNabb.
Why did the Detroit Tigers get rid of Nate Robertson? I know that Nate, Bonderman, and Willis are all question marks for this year, but to get rid of a left-hander with some potential could come back to bite the team later near the playoffs. The Tigers now have 8 right hand pitchers and 5 left starting this season. My choice would have been to trade Bonderman and keep the left-hander. Lefties are not that plentiful.
Tom Izzo looks so tired this year. I hope it is not his health and that he is just getting a little older. All of these rumors of his leaving MSU, I doubt are true. But don't be surprised if he feels he needs some new challenges to get him rejuvenated. I hope not!
Happy Easter
Bob
I would be willing to bet that Brett Farve does not play football this year. However, if he does, he will not end up playing the whole season. He is so undecided that a disappointing start for the Vikings will send him to retirement. Again!
I don't know if Donovan McNabb is going to the Oakland Raiders. I really believe though, that he will not be with the Philadelphia Eagles this year. My reasoning is that if he were to stay, Michael Vick would already be gone. The Eagles have given up on McNabb.
Why did the Detroit Tigers get rid of Nate Robertson? I know that Nate, Bonderman, and Willis are all question marks for this year, but to get rid of a left-hander with some potential could come back to bite the team later near the playoffs. The Tigers now have 8 right hand pitchers and 5 left starting this season. My choice would have been to trade Bonderman and keep the left-hander. Lefties are not that plentiful.
Tom Izzo looks so tired this year. I hope it is not his health and that he is just getting a little older. All of these rumors of his leaving MSU, I doubt are true. But don't be surprised if he feels he needs some new challenges to get him rejuvenated. I hope not!
Happy Easter
Bob
Friday, March 26, 2010
New NFL Playoff Rule
When I first read the new rule for the NFL overtime playoff picture, I was not very enthused. My first thoughts were that if was just too little, and not enough change. If it doesn't help a lot, why change the rule in the first place? But after hearing some of the remarks by the NFL coaches I took another look at it. Guess what? I like it a whole bunch.
First off I looked at the problem. When the NFL changed the kickoffs from the 35 to the 30-yard line, the run backs by the special teams started getting deeper into the opponents territory, giving the receiving team a great field position to kick a field goal and win the game. The team winning the coin toss had a real advantage and it seemed too easy to win a game after a grueling battle, which finished in a tie.
The NFL solution is that if the "winning coin toss team" kicks a field goal, the opponent will have a chance to get the ball and do the same. If the two teams both kicked field goals, the game would go into sudden death and the first team that scores first in any way, wins. However, if either team scores a touchdown, or safety, the game would end right there. Got it?
This rule is a lot better than what the NFL had. It is not perfect, and I would have liked the coin toss (I hate it!) being eliminated. I am sure there will be more improvements in the future. This is a good start.
How about giving the home team the first option, or even going with "the team with the most yards after regulation?" Or the team with the best cheerleaders?
Any comments?
Bob
First off I looked at the problem. When the NFL changed the kickoffs from the 35 to the 30-yard line, the run backs by the special teams started getting deeper into the opponents territory, giving the receiving team a great field position to kick a field goal and win the game. The team winning the coin toss had a real advantage and it seemed too easy to win a game after a grueling battle, which finished in a tie.
The NFL solution is that if the "winning coin toss team" kicks a field goal, the opponent will have a chance to get the ball and do the same. If the two teams both kicked field goals, the game would go into sudden death and the first team that scores first in any way, wins. However, if either team scores a touchdown, or safety, the game would end right there. Got it?
This rule is a lot better than what the NFL had. It is not perfect, and I would have liked the coin toss (I hate it!) being eliminated. I am sure there will be more improvements in the future. This is a good start.
How about giving the home team the first option, or even going with "the team with the most yards after regulation?" Or the team with the best cheerleaders?
Any comments?
Bob
Monday, March 22, 2010
Another Weekend
What an amazing win for the Michigan Spartans this weekend. Korie Lucious hit a last second shot to beat Maryland, 85 to 83, to send Sparty into the Sweet Sixteen again. Michigan State looked like a team of the walking wounded. CBS's Brando said they looked like a "Mash" unit.
I am not sure how much further they can go in the tournament with their many injuries, but one thing I have to say is that Michigan State basketball always gives us an exciting "March Madness." Their next game is with the Cinderella's of Northern Iowa. Go Sparty!
What is with all of the upsets this year in the NCAA tourney? I have already thrown my bracket entries away. All of the big teams, Kansas, Georgetown, Villanova, and Vanderbilt got beat in the second round. My thoughts on this is that their opponents are teams they hadn't played before. They have been rated 1, 2, or 3 based on their schedules and games in their own conferences, where they are familiar with the weaknesses and strengths. More than ever this year I have noticed how poorly the big teams started off the beginning of their games. Are they too over confident?
The Lions are looking at "Pacman" Jones and although he is still young and in good physical shape, I really think they should pass on him. He has practically sat out two years because of off-field incidents. I believe in giving people a second chance, but I don't think the Detroit Lions are a team that should be taking a chance on someone who has a shaky past. They are shaky enough. And let's not talk about their past!
Bob
I am not sure how much further they can go in the tournament with their many injuries, but one thing I have to say is that Michigan State basketball always gives us an exciting "March Madness." Their next game is with the Cinderella's of Northern Iowa. Go Sparty!
What is with all of the upsets this year in the NCAA tourney? I have already thrown my bracket entries away. All of the big teams, Kansas, Georgetown, Villanova, and Vanderbilt got beat in the second round. My thoughts on this is that their opponents are teams they hadn't played before. They have been rated 1, 2, or 3 based on their schedules and games in their own conferences, where they are familiar with the weaknesses and strengths. More than ever this year I have noticed how poorly the big teams started off the beginning of their games. Are they too over confident?
The Lions are looking at "Pacman" Jones and although he is still young and in good physical shape, I really think they should pass on him. He has practically sat out two years because of off-field incidents. I believe in giving people a second chance, but I don't think the Detroit Lions are a team that should be taking a chance on someone who has a shaky past. They are shaky enough. And let's not talk about their past!
Bob
Monday, March 15, 2010
This and That
The Michigan Wolverines lost in the Big Ten Tournament on a last two-second shot. I have been amazed at how the TV sportscasters analyzed coach Beilein's decision to go man-to-man or to a zone defense? They kept discussing whether he made the right move or not? Of course, he didn't. We lost the game! I would not be critical of him had there been no timeouts left, but the coach had time to set up any attempt of Ohio State getting a shot off and he failed.
If this situation should ever come up again, I know that he would not do the same thing, no matter what he says to the contrary.
This loss might have changed a few things. Would Illinois be in the tourney now? Would Michigan be in the NIT? Would the Spartans be a higher seed? Who knows?
Michigan Spartans, number 11 in the country, goes to a 5 seed? Yeah, that is about right. They have not looked good the past few weeks, and they sure don't look like they will go far in the NCAA tournament. There is hope with Allen coming off a suspension, that he might get the team energized so that they might avoid an early knockout. My feeling is that they have not been physical enough all year. Early in the season they were constantly in foul trouble. It seems they have corrected that problem, but it has been hurting their defense and aggressiveness.
Small note on the Lions: With the acquisitions Detroit has made in the off-season, I have changed my thoughts about their number two pick. I now think the Honolulu Blue will take Suh and not trade down for an extra pick. I think the coaches are very happy with the players they have picked up in free agency and by trades. They are much improved since the beginning of the year and now will go for an outstanding defensive player. I am hoping!
Bob
If this situation should ever come up again, I know that he would not do the same thing, no matter what he says to the contrary.
This loss might have changed a few things. Would Illinois be in the tourney now? Would Michigan be in the NIT? Would the Spartans be a higher seed? Who knows?
Michigan Spartans, number 11 in the country, goes to a 5 seed? Yeah, that is about right. They have not looked good the past few weeks, and they sure don't look like they will go far in the NCAA tournament. There is hope with Allen coming off a suspension, that he might get the team energized so that they might avoid an early knockout. My feeling is that they have not been physical enough all year. Early in the season they were constantly in foul trouble. It seems they have corrected that problem, but it has been hurting their defense and aggressiveness.
Small note on the Lions: With the acquisitions Detroit has made in the off-season, I have changed my thoughts about their number two pick. I now think the Honolulu Blue will take Suh and not trade down for an extra pick. I think the coaches are very happy with the players they have picked up in free agency and by trades. They are much improved since the beginning of the year and now will go for an outstanding defensive player. I am hoping!
Bob
Friday, March 12, 2010
The Real Larry Foote?
I was really surprised when the Detroit Lions released Larry Foote a week or so ago. He had a lot of good things to say about our struggling football team last year when he came back to his home state where he attended high school in Flint Michigan. I thought that he was the type of player we needed. Larry seemed dedicated, loyal, with a good attitude, and had "game." He was (I had hoped) one more brick on bringing the Lions back to respectability. I guess the Lion's front office and coach Schwartz did not see him that same way. I am not sure what kind of skills he still possesses, but his latest remarks show a little of his true character. Now that he is leaving after one year, he is making statements about going to the Arizona Cardinals, which, quoting he said, "To get back to a winner." Boy, that was a fast reversal. In other words, to "Hell" with Detroit, and all the good words he said about the team last year was not the way he truly felt.
I am glad he is now gone. As always I will be rooting for the Lions to win every game this year, and if Foote goes to Arizona (might go to Redskins?), I will cheer the opposing team each and every game.
Bob
I am glad he is now gone. As always I will be rooting for the Lions to win every game this year, and if Foote goes to Arizona (might go to Redskins?), I will cheer the opposing team each and every game.
Bob
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
MORE THOUGHTS
I see that Eastern Michigan University (granddaughter goes there) hired a former Detroit Lion's assistant coach last week. Phil Snow who was the Lion's linebacker coach will now take over as defensive coordinator for the EM Eagles. Last year the Eagles lost every game, they were 0 for 12. Now I don't want to blow EMU's bubble, but Snow worked for the Lions for 4 years and the team's record for that period was 15 wins and 49 losses. What was on Snow's resume that made EMU hire this guy?
The Big Ten tournament is this weekend. I am predicting that a couple of the top teams, either Michigan State, Ohio State or Purdue will get knocked off early before the Championship game. I believe, however that all of these teams, including Wisconsin (granddaughter goes there)will do well in the Big Dance (NCAA Tourney).
I wish I had the high hopes as the Detroit writers do about the Detroit Tigers baseball team's chances this year. The pitching looks good, much better than last year, but new guys like Damon, Austin, and Sizemore look shaky to me. I hope I am wrong. If the Tigers don't make the playoffs this year, look for Dombrowski to leave because of the roster moves he has made.
Bob
The Big Ten tournament is this weekend. I am predicting that a couple of the top teams, either Michigan State, Ohio State or Purdue will get knocked off early before the Championship game. I believe, however that all of these teams, including Wisconsin (granddaughter goes there)will do well in the Big Dance (NCAA Tourney).
I wish I had the high hopes as the Detroit writers do about the Detroit Tigers baseball team's chances this year. The pitching looks good, much better than last year, but new guys like Damon, Austin, and Sizemore look shaky to me. I hope I am wrong. If the Tigers don't make the playoffs this year, look for Dombrowski to leave because of the roster moves he has made.
Bob
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
NFL Latest
The NFL is thinking about changing the rules for overtime play. As of right now, the winner of the coin toss has quite an advantage getting the ball first and then just working down the field to kick a field goal. Today's field goal kickers can kick farther and more accurate than the kickers in the 50's, and with the current passing attacks, teams can move down the field for a fairly easy win. How do they improve this?
I never did like the college football overtime format. I sure hope they don't go that route! It seems too dragged out.
I have heard some of the NFL ideas so far, and they are not very stimulating. I have my own ideas, and I would like to suggest them to the National Football League now.
1. Get rid of all coin tosses. They are childish and antiquated. Home teams should always receive the ball first. If they want it first?
2. In overtime, the team who has the ball last in regulation time must kick off to the opponents. This will force the last team with the ball to try and break the tie before regulation ends, knowing that they won't get the ball first in the overtime period. It could be mostly be their fault if the game goes to overtime for not being aggressive enough.
3. In the overtime period each team has 3 minutes to score with only one timeout. Once they lose the ball and time runs out, they must kick off to the other team. Kickoffs go back and forth with possessions. More kickoffs, more excitement, and more special teams involvement.
Would it work? I don't know. Just my thoughts.
The last period of the Olympic hockey game between Canada and the U.S. was one of the best I have seen in years. The offensive flow of both teams were tremendous and really exciting. The game was not stopped for unnecessary penalties or frequent commercial breaks. The NHL could learn a few thing from the Olympics.
March Madness is right around the corner. Can't wait!
Bob
I never did like the college football overtime format. I sure hope they don't go that route! It seems too dragged out.
I have heard some of the NFL ideas so far, and they are not very stimulating. I have my own ideas, and I would like to suggest them to the National Football League now.
1. Get rid of all coin tosses. They are childish and antiquated. Home teams should always receive the ball first. If they want it first?
2. In overtime, the team who has the ball last in regulation time must kick off to the opponents. This will force the last team with the ball to try and break the tie before regulation ends, knowing that they won't get the ball first in the overtime period. It could be mostly be their fault if the game goes to overtime for not being aggressive enough.
3. In the overtime period each team has 3 minutes to score with only one timeout. Once they lose the ball and time runs out, they must kick off to the other team. Kickoffs go back and forth with possessions. More kickoffs, more excitement, and more special teams involvement.
Would it work? I don't know. Just my thoughts.
The last period of the Olympic hockey game between Canada and the U.S. was one of the best I have seen in years. The offensive flow of both teams were tremendous and really exciting. The game was not stopped for unnecessary penalties or frequent commercial breaks. The NHL could learn a few thing from the Olympics.
March Madness is right around the corner. Can't wait!
Bob
Friday, February 26, 2010
LIONS DRAFT DAY
Even though the NFL draft day is about 5 weeks away, talk of the Detroit Lion's number two pick has gone from a formality to high speculation. It was a no-brainer that after St. Louis picked either defensive tackles McCoy or Suh, with the first pick, that the Lions would pick the other player.
Things have changed. Now that the Rams are going to pick quarterback Sam Bradford, the Lions will now have a choice between these two fine tackles. My feeling is that they will pick one of them, because Lion's coach Schwartz says they will draft the best athletes in the draft. These two probably are the best athletes to go into the draft this year, but I hope they don't pick either. I say, trade the number two pick and obtain two really fine players instead of just one. The Lions are hurting in so many positions that what they need now are more quality players instead of just one or two really good ones. I don't think they will do this, but they should. Number two picks are priceless and they should try to get as much out of it as possible. Of course, if they have another bad season, they may have the number two pick again in 2011?
I said in an earlier post that there were not a lot of good running backs in the 2010 draft. Actually there are a bunch of good ones, but only after the first round. I wanted the Lions to pick up Damien Tomlinson as a back, at least until Kevin Smith (sooner now, that he will not have his shoulder operation) returns. But it looks like now no one wants to deal with Damien. He hasn't had a good year since his father died in a car crash in 2008. So the Lions need a running back, at least temporarily. There should be some good ones in the second, or third rounds. With that extra pick from the trade, who knows?
I see the NFL Combine is doing baseline brain testing for all of the college players this year. We could have used this in the Matt Millen era.
Things have changed. Now that the Rams are going to pick quarterback Sam Bradford, the Lions will now have a choice between these two fine tackles. My feeling is that they will pick one of them, because Lion's coach Schwartz says they will draft the best athletes in the draft. These two probably are the best athletes to go into the draft this year, but I hope they don't pick either. I say, trade the number two pick and obtain two really fine players instead of just one. The Lions are hurting in so many positions that what they need now are more quality players instead of just one or two really good ones. I don't think they will do this, but they should. Number two picks are priceless and they should try to get as much out of it as possible. Of course, if they have another bad season, they may have the number two pick again in 2011?
I said in an earlier post that there were not a lot of good running backs in the 2010 draft. Actually there are a bunch of good ones, but only after the first round. I wanted the Lions to pick up Damien Tomlinson as a back, at least until Kevin Smith (sooner now, that he will not have his shoulder operation) returns. But it looks like now no one wants to deal with Damien. He hasn't had a good year since his father died in a car crash in 2008. So the Lions need a running back, at least temporarily. There should be some good ones in the second, or third rounds. With that extra pick from the trade, who knows?
I see the NFL Combine is doing baseline brain testing for all of the college players this year. We could have used this in the Matt Millen era.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Bits and Pieces Today
Tony Kornheiser got suspended for two weeks from his TV show, "PTI." The reason being, he used derogatory remarks about ESPN's Hanna Storm's wardrobe on camera. I agree that his mumblings were kind of crude, but I have heard worse descriptions of dress on the Academy Awards Red Carpet. Hanna wore red boots, a tight top, and a short skirt. His words were unkind, but not salacious or scandalous. Among some of the things, he said that these were not clothes that a 40 or 50 year old should wear. Ouch!
Why the harsh punishment? Probably, I feel because they both work for ESPN (the same workplace). Kornheiser apologized, and I feel that should have been sufficient. I sure don't feel that the punishment fit the crime.
How long is this thing with the Michigan Wolverine football team going to go on? Why can't this matter be finalized? The NCAA says that Michigan committed 5 violations, and the school says they want the truth and will hide nothing. It's done.! Documentation is all there and a student coach was caught lying. Please! Pass out the penalties and let's move forward. This is not a real big thing as far as school infractions go. Other Universities have done much worse. Why does the NCAA have to wait 90 more days to pass a ruling when no more evidence is going to come out of this? Rodriguez says his program misinterpreted the rules. I say we misinterpreted Rich Rodriguez as a Michigan coach!
Bob
Why the harsh punishment? Probably, I feel because they both work for ESPN (the same workplace). Kornheiser apologized, and I feel that should have been sufficient. I sure don't feel that the punishment fit the crime.
How long is this thing with the Michigan Wolverine football team going to go on? Why can't this matter be finalized? The NCAA says that Michigan committed 5 violations, and the school says they want the truth and will hide nothing. It's done.! Documentation is all there and a student coach was caught lying. Please! Pass out the penalties and let's move forward. This is not a real big thing as far as school infractions go. Other Universities have done much worse. Why does the NCAA have to wait 90 more days to pass a ruling when no more evidence is going to come out of this? Rodriguez says his program misinterpreted the rules. I say we misinterpreted Rich Rodriguez as a Michigan coach!
Bob
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Help for the Lions
Just read in the Detroit Free Press that the Detroit Lions were not interested in running back La Dainian Tomlinson, who was just released by the San Diego Chargers this week.
Why not? Is it the money? Haven't they wasted millions already on poor choice football prospects?
The Lions are still high on the future of Kevin Smith. He is their number one running back (for now) and is recovering from a leg or knee operation and might not be back until the middle of the season. Everyone is hoping it is sooner not later.
What to do? We need a running back. Any player they pick will probably be a temporary fill-in until Kevin comes back. The Lions don't plan on drafting a back this year because of the poor selection of backs coming from college. They plan on tackling the draft by picking the best talent this year and not necessarily filling positions. I agree with this plan, especially with the many needs the team has.
Why not get Tomlinson for a year, or maybe even two? Has he got anything left in his tank? Who knows? He is 30 years old (old for a back) and with a new team may become inspired to finish his career on a high note. The Lions could help him do that, and he surely would bring some fans back to the stadium to cheer him on so he could add to his NFL records.
He was the MVP in the NFL in 2006, and will definitely be a Hall of Famer when he retires.
Come on Lions! Sign him up!
Bob
Why not? Is it the money? Haven't they wasted millions already on poor choice football prospects?
The Lions are still high on the future of Kevin Smith. He is their number one running back (for now) and is recovering from a leg or knee operation and might not be back until the middle of the season. Everyone is hoping it is sooner not later.
What to do? We need a running back. Any player they pick will probably be a temporary fill-in until Kevin comes back. The Lions don't plan on drafting a back this year because of the poor selection of backs coming from college. They plan on tackling the draft by picking the best talent this year and not necessarily filling positions. I agree with this plan, especially with the many needs the team has.
Why not get Tomlinson for a year, or maybe even two? Has he got anything left in his tank? Who knows? He is 30 years old (old for a back) and with a new team may become inspired to finish his career on a high note. The Lions could help him do that, and he surely would bring some fans back to the stadium to cheer him on so he could add to his NFL records.
He was the MVP in the NFL in 2006, and will definitely be a Hall of Famer when he retires.
Come on Lions! Sign him up!
Bob
Sunday, February 21, 2010
2010 Detroit Tigers
It took me years to get back to cheering for the Detroit Tigers, and now they have put me into the same funk that I had after the baseball strike and that terrible year of 2003 when they only won 43 games. Spring training is just around the corner and there is nothing to get excited about in 2010.
I had finally got to the point of loving and caring for these players even though their results did not make it to the playoffs let alone the World Series the past 4 years. They were my team and I lived and died with them. So what do they do? They trade three of everyone's favorites to other teams, for guys we never heard of, or for players we have to learn to care for all over again. Polanco goes to the Phillies, Granderson and Jackson go to the Yankees. Does this make sense?
The Tigers will say it was all in cutting the payroll, but it doesn't look like it. They picked up Johnny Damon from the Yankees to replace Granderson. Both play the outfield, hit lefty, and can lead off. Damon is old (36) and slow on defense. Granderson strikes out a lot. I would have kept Granderson. Especially, since Curtis is young and still developing and may in the future become a great player. He is loved by the fans and did much for the city of Detroit with his many charities. Damon got $7 million a year for two years, and he may not even last a year.
The rookie, Austin Jackson will probably be the main center fielder for this year, and the experts are not really high on him as yet. That puts Damon in left field to replace the only other left hand hitter, Carlos Guillen. Where does he go, back to playing part time?
What a mess.
I cannot see any good in these trades at all. Was the team that far off from having a super season this year? 2010 does not look promising.
Bob
I had finally got to the point of loving and caring for these players even though their results did not make it to the playoffs let alone the World Series the past 4 years. They were my team and I lived and died with them. So what do they do? They trade three of everyone's favorites to other teams, for guys we never heard of, or for players we have to learn to care for all over again. Polanco goes to the Phillies, Granderson and Jackson go to the Yankees. Does this make sense?
The Tigers will say it was all in cutting the payroll, but it doesn't look like it. They picked up Johnny Damon from the Yankees to replace Granderson. Both play the outfield, hit lefty, and can lead off. Damon is old (36) and slow on defense. Granderson strikes out a lot. I would have kept Granderson. Especially, since Curtis is young and still developing and may in the future become a great player. He is loved by the fans and did much for the city of Detroit with his many charities. Damon got $7 million a year for two years, and he may not even last a year.
The rookie, Austin Jackson will probably be the main center fielder for this year, and the experts are not really high on him as yet. That puts Damon in left field to replace the only other left hand hitter, Carlos Guillen. Where does he go, back to playing part time?
What a mess.
I cannot see any good in these trades at all. Was the team that far off from having a super season this year? 2010 does not look promising.
Bob
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