Here we are.  After a horrible year for dallas sports, most of my picks proved quite faulty.  I fell for it again.  Putting everything you have in you for you're team, especially if they're the Cowboys, can be very demoralizing.  Mavs were predictable.  We ALL knew they would beat the Spurs, and they did, and we all knew they would lose to Denver, and they did.  Rangers won games that they shouldn't have, and lost games that should have been blowouts.  Stars missed the playoffs for only the third time since moving to Dallas.  

After the Yankees winning the World Series, sports are everywhere all over again.  Football season is already over half way finished, hockey is just getting going and basketball just started.

I believe you'll be hearing from me very soon.  

next: Mavs rolling, Cowboys surviving and Stars struggling...

Oh, and Jimmie Johnson won again...4 in a row, congrats! (I really cant stand NASCAR

When I worte my previous post on the NBA and the teams 'to look out for' I wasnt accounting on so many of them to start so poorly.  The 76ers, Raptors and Knick (after dealing away all their talent for cap room 2 years from now) have all dwindled away in the early season.  One team who has stepped up, against all odds is the Dallas Mavericks.

Josh Howard has been out for the last 5 games, and the Mavericks have won them all except a blown 4th quarter lead against the Lakers.  In the last 10 games, the Mavs have won blow outs and nail bitters against teams like The Knicks, Rockets, Pacers and Suns.  After loosing to Orlando by two points a week and a half ago, the Mavericks have won 8 out of 10 and three straight.  Rick Carslile is doing something right, and whatever it is, promises to get better as the year goes on.

Dirk Nowitzki is averaging 25 points a game along with almost 9 rebounds.  He hasnt slowed down much in his 11th season, and is showing the leadership that Avery and Nelson couldnt get out of him.  I think With Rick Carslile - if the Mavs go places this year- that Dallas wont lose due to being out coached.  Dirk, once again is at the top of the NBA for points per game and is putting up another bid for most valuable player.  I know, everyone thinks he didnt deserve it when he won it the last time, and everyone is always on the lebron/kobe bandwagon, but if Dirk keeps carrying Dallas the way he has, his chances are as good as anyones in the race for Most VALUABLE Player.   7th place in the conference after an injury plagued start, the Mavs are moving.  Watch out New Orleans.

Another player who has been a huge factor for the Mavericks is the bench.  Jason Terry, pretty much a starter, has taken his role as 6th man to a higher priority than any player in the league.  He averages 20 points, 4 assist and 1 turnover a game.  He energizes the crowd even when hes not playing.  Other bench guys who have stepped up huge include Brandon Bass, who I think will be a starter at some point in time in his career, and JJ Barea. 

At first glance of JJ, one might say, "What does Dallas see in this guy the Nash and Harris didnt have to offer?"  And the truth to that question is nothing.  There is no way he is, or ever will be better than either one of those players.  However JJ is taking his chances with what is being thrown at him.  Rick Carslile likes JJ off the bench, giving either Terry or Kidd a rest.  Once JJ started getting comfortable out there, many players - good players - figured out why this little man playing.  Listed as six foot nothing (and thats being generous), Jose Juan lit up the scoreboard against the LA Clippers 3 nights ago, dropping the game winning 3 pointer for a nightly total of 15 points.  This guy has NEVER done that before.  Not only has Barea stepped up, he was guarded by BARON DAVIS almost the whole night.  The achilles heel of the Dallas Mavericks didnt know what the fuck to do against little JJ.  I love it!  2 nights later against the Phoenix Suns, Barea is a starter.  He earned it in the game against the Clippers, and Carslile rewarded him.  What did JJ do against Steve Nash on national television?  18 points 3 rebounds 4 assists and a steal.  If this guy gets ANY rebounds, the other team should be ashamed.  There was this one rebound, where little JJ was in the middle of the lane, surrounded by Shaq, Dirk, Amare, and a couple of other 6'9'' players, and Ill be damned if JJ didnt jump and out rebound all 3 of them!  Who is this guy?  He may be six foot nothing, but his heart and passion surpasses that of many players in this league. 

When I look at the near future of the Mavs, do I think they'll goto the playoffs?  Possibly.  In those playoffs, will they contend for a conference championship again?  Maybe (highly unlikely).  And just sayyyyyy the Mavs win the Conference, do they have a shot at a title against the likes of Detroit or Boston or Orlando?  Its a long shot but if their bench produces like they did against the Clippers (65 out of 100 and something points) then just maybe...MAAAAAYYYYYYBE....It could happen.

2nd half of season gets off to a good start.

WIth Tony Romo's return hyped up as much as it possibly could, in a very important divisional game against the Redskins (a team the Boys had already lost to) a win was a must.  And boy did they deliver.  People have been down playing the Cowboys defense as of late, maybe because of a lack of effort against the Giants, Cardinals, and Rams, but when the offense struggleded against the Skins, the defense held true.  Jay Ratliff, having a HUGE season already has 6 sacks on the year, was a force that the Redskins could not stop.  At the same token, Damarcus Ware did his usual thing collecting another sack to his yearly total of 11.  Romo threw 2 interceptions in the first half of the Redskins game, but players like Ware and Ratliff helped get us out of an early hole.  Even after the 2 interceptions, by halftime the Cowboys were losing 10 - 7.  We got a look at a healty Terrence Newman in the 2nd half, as snagged an interception - only Jason Campbell's 3rd of the season - and broke up the final 4th and 4 drive of the Redskins.  No doubt, with the team completly healthy you would figure a great run at the post-season is eminent.  This is false to alot of people who STILL thihnk the Cowboys will crash and burn.  A poll on Fox Sports asked viewers if they think Dallas will make the playoffs, and some 58% said no.  Perhaps this is due to the gruelling schedule remaining, and boy is it not a pretty one.

First is a game that the Cowboys could overlook.  Like the Cardinals, and the Rams, the 49'ers (after Mike Singletary became the coach) have played teams very hard.  Singletary is 1 - 2 as the new coach but has made a pretty lousy team look pretty good, even in the losses.  He has earned the respect from his players, and is promising nothing but sucess for the team.  Last week, againt the Rams, The 49'ers put up some 35 points in the first half.  Although the were playing the Rams, the Cowboys need to prepare for a tough home game against a revitalized San Fransisco team.  IF not careful, Cowboys fans could see their ever so confident team get run over by an under-rated team.  The record may not say much for the niners this season, but look out in 09'.  Frank Gore could put up big number against the Cowboys, as many other runningbacks have done this year.  Portis, Westbrook, Jacobs, and Jackson to name a few.  Dallas hasnt been all that great against the run this year, but with Terrence Newman back and healty the pass defense should hold San Fransisco to be a one dimensional team.  My pick: DAL 27 - SF 13

The week after San Fransisco should be another gimmie.  So much so I dont think it deserves much focus at all (although if the Cowboys choke that one away then Ill be regretting it).  The only thing I really have to say about it is that Hasselback should return as the QB by then, so our secondary might be put to through a decent test.  Also, Julius Jones might want some revenge against his former team, so look out for him.  MY pick:  DAL 30 - SEA 17

This one is going to be one of the tougher games on the schedule.  Dallas at Pittsburgh.  Alot of people are still riding the Ben Roethlisberger bandwagon after carrying the Steelers to a Superbowl a couple of years ago, but I am proud to say that I am not one of them.  To be honest with you, I think if BIG BEN plays, the Cowboys will win outright, but if he gets hurt again, before the game, and Leftwich returns, I think the Boys could be in deep trouble.  Ben has thrown interceptions galore in recent weeks, and looks more like a Chase Daniel than a Terry Bradshaw.  Sort of like the Cowboys of recent, the Steelers have been either winning games because of their defense (no suprise there) or just loosing them completly.  The Steelers got mauled by the Giants (so did the cowboys) and then got run over by the Ravens, and barely squeeked by a lousy San Diego team in therrible weather conditions (not to mention a blown call at the end of the game that left very sour taste in Las Vegas' mouth).  My point about the Steelers game is that they're weak offensivley.  VERY weak.  The ONLY thing they have going for them offensively is Willie Parker when he's healthy.  Not Hines Ward, or Big Ben, or any other nameless offensive players, but Willie Parker could be the thorn in the Cowboys side.  Mendenhal prooved to be a good pass by the Cowboys, and Felix prooved to be a great one.  I definatly look foward to his return this weeken against San Fran.  This game should be a tough to to call in favor of the Cowboys but Im going to continue to be biased and say that:  DAL 20 - PIT 17

Next is probably the most important game on the remaining schedule.  The re-match against New York.  After blowing last years playoff game against them (cough Crayton) the Giants started where they left off.  Smashing Dallas' faces in the dirt.  Mike Jenkins looked like a Rookie against the G-men a couple of weeks ago as he literally, watched Brandon JAcobs strole into the end zone with out even attempting to tackle him.  Maybe its because he was terrified that the 'should be' linebacker was running at him, full speed ahead as if he wants to be a running back.  Wait?  You're telling me that Brandon Jacobs IS a running back?  O shit no wonder why the Dallas defense watched him run by instead of making an effort.  To be honest, if I saw that man running full steam straight at me, I would fall to my knees and start repenting cause he is a BEAST.  I hate the Giants, but JAcobs is by far the best player on that team, and with him, I think it will be difficult for anyone to beat them.  As over-rated as Eli has become, as long as he has Brandon Jacobs he'll be a top rated QB for a loooooooooong time.  I would like to pick Dallas in this one, AND I dont think its a shoe-in that we will lose but:  DAL 17 - NY 24

The last two games will be tough as well.  Bal at Dal and Dal at Phi.  Im tired of typing so Im just gonna say this:  If Westbrook gets the carries he deserves, then and only then does Philly stand a chance.  Baltimore only wins if Suggs and Lewis take Romo out - which is quite possible.  here are the picks:  DAL 24 - BAL 20       DAL 17 - PHI 10

 If you havent noticed, I picked Dallas in all but one of the remaining games.  I did this because I believe Dallas will ride into the playoffs with HUGE momentum and make a run at the superbowl.  I stand by my pick from week one for the superbowl

DAL vs. NY JETS (maybe even the Dolphins)

Either way I think this season is the start of a new dynsasty.  Cowboys will win it all this year, and also when the superbowl is played in Dallas. 

By the way, did you know that the new Cowboys stadium will host the following:

1. 2010 NBA All star game
2. 2011 superbowl
3. 2014 mens basketball final four!
4. Nebraska vs Texas A&M game for the next 10 years

pretty wild stuff huh?

Since the Mavs are proving to be non-contenders, as suspected, here are the teams I wish to be successful in the 2008 - 09' season:

1)  The New York Knicks:  Mike D'Antoni has an opprotunity to be the Bill Belicheck of the NBA.  Leaving one of the more powerful teams in the Western conference for a doppy, no show of a team last year in the New York Knicks will solidify as him as one of the premiere coaches in the league.  When Tom Brady went down for the year with a knee injury, Belicheick didnt fret, and when Harrison went out for the season, Bellichick just replaced him.  With numerous other injuries on the team, the Patriots are still 6- 3 leading their division all due to, as much as I hate to say it, a great coaching style from the biggest ass holes of a coach around.  If Mike D'Antoni can take this fecies filled team, and make them contenders, he would be doing the same thing for New York as Bellichick is doing with the Pats.

The knicks have gotten off to an unexpectedly good start.  They're 4 - 2 with victories over the new look Heat and a pretty good western conference foe, the Utah Jazz.  All of this being done while Stephan Marbury and the other guy being benched.  I know, great writting huh?  Anyways, its apparent that D'Antoni isnt going to tolerate the selfish play, and egotistical attitudes of these one dimensional players.  He's establishing a new attitude, and creating a new team that wants to win in New York.  It's going to be difficult for the Knicks to win their division this year, if not impossible, with the Raptors, 76'ers and the defending world champions Boston Celtics competing for it, but hopes for the playoffs isnt that un-reasonable.  If I was D'antoni and the New York Knickerbockers, I would aim for a 7th or 8th sead in the Eastern conference.  Be realistic with what your team has to offer, but let the other teams know you're on the rise.  Who knows, maybe with a couple of playoff berths before 2010, you might actually get LeBron - now wouldnt that be something?  I definatly think, with the way things are going now, that the Knicks, like the Miami Dolphins and the Celtics for that matter, have a chance at going worst to first.  Maybe not in ONE season, but they're definatly on the rise.

2)  Another team from the Eastern Conference Atlantic Division - The Philiadelphia 76'ers.  This has got to be one of my favorite teams now.  I watched very little of these guys up untill the playoffs of last year.  They gave their opponents a damn good run for their money in 07' - 08' as Andre Iguodala proved to be a game changing player.  Perhaps following in the sutble foot steps, that many 76'ers fans still hear, of Allen Iverson is there hope that Andre Iguodala can be their premeire player.  With the aquisition of Elton Brand - leaving Baron Davis in the dust in LA - this team has the potential to compete for the division this year!  Imagine this:  Baron Davis is traded to the Clippers in hopes of playing with another big time superstar in Elton Brand, however Elton signs as a free agent with the 76'ers in hopes of competing for a championship right NOW.  What if, somehow, some way, the 76'ers could get their hands on Baron Davis too?!  All would be good, and Davis wouldnt have a center with down syndrom (Chris Kayman) while being stuck as a Clipper.  There would be a new power trio in the Atlantic division, and they would seriously give the Celtics a run for their money.  LISTEN TO ME MR. SNIDER - GET BARON DAVIS, GET HIM NOW!  I look foward to seeing the 76'ers in the playoffs once again in 09' and many times in the near future, and maybe, JUST MAYBE they'll win a championship - following the footsteps of the Phillies of course.

3)  The Miami Heat - After watching the olympics, quite an understatement I was freaking glued to it, Dwayne Wade showed the world that he is one of the best, in the world.  On a team of high flyers, slam dunkers, 3 ballers and fade awayers, D-Wade led them all.  Once upon a time, D-Wade was considered one of the best in the league, being included in conversations of Jordan-esque type players along with Kobe and LeBron.  Something happened, probably along the lines of always being injured, he lost these comparisons.  However, the Olypics brought D-Wade's dominance to a new level.  As a Mavericks fan, I have seen D-Wade control the game when it matters most.  Shaq didnt win that Championship, D-Wade did.  Now with the help of Rookie sensation Michael Beasly, and a damn good player in Shawn Merion, the Heat are finally contenders again. 

The Miami heat have also gotten off to a slow start.  One thing they could be missing is the presence of a true point guard.  My fantasy point guard for this team would have to be Steve Nash.  He's getting older, but if he was on a team with D-Wade, Beasly and former team-mate Shawn Merion, things would be getting DONE in Miami.  It wouldnt be another trio to compete with Boston, it would be a quartet.  Almost a full starting roster of superstars, past and present, but still capable of getting the job done.  I'm not too sure how dominant Beasly will be this year, or for the rest of career for that matter, but I'm sure wherever he goes, he'll be a nice contributor to say the least.  Should he meet his actual potential, and be a superstar in a star driven league, things will definatly be looking up in Miami for a long time comming. Get Steve Nash, win another championship :)

4)  Probably the last team Im really excited about, and I think alot of people are for that matter, is a team who put up a great effort at the end of the 07' - 08' season and went into the playoffs riding great confidence.  Too bad they were put up against the Boston Celtics in the first round.  Yea, I'm talking about that team, who has been the laughing stock of the NBA for almost as long as the Browns have been for the NFL.  The Atlanta Hawks.  First and foremost, the Hawks gave the Celtics a damn good run in the first round.  If they had won, it would have been just as bad, if not worse than when the Mavericks lost in the first round to the Golden State Warriors.  This team has alot of talent, along with potential.  led by veteran point guard Mike Bibby, and one of the best and most under-rated players in the league Joe Johnson.  I wasnt much of a fan of Childress but I thought he wouldnt fit the role of a team player anyways.  Another Marbury type in my opinion, but the Hawks have started this long season off undefeated!  There is only one other team (I think) that is undefeated at this point, and they are the Western Conference Champs, LA Lakers.

This team, and city, finally have something to root for.  Not only are the Falcons kicking some ass - with a rookie QB mind you - but the Hawks who are definatly on the rise.  With a strong center in Josh Smith, an amazingly consistent shooting guard/small foward in Joe Johnson and veteran point guard Mike Bibby, a good foudation has been set, and now post-season expectations are higher.  Things will be tough for the Hawks, as they play divisional foes Orlando and Miami numerous times this year.  Although they may not win their division, they definatly can make a strong push for the playoffs later on in the season.  Dont be suprised, as you were last season to see the Hawks push for divisional bragging rights, and continue moving in the right direction for an eventual Championship.

Like I said, with the Mavs giving me nearly nothing to cheer for, other teams potential is enough to grab my attention.  Along with the fore-mentioned teams, here are some others that should still be fun to watch.  The new look Detroit Pistons (thanks to Allen Iverson - brings big hype wherever hegoes, just dont expect him to PRACTICE).  The Phoenix Suns, Shaqs first full season in purple and orange, not to mention Steve Nash whos dying for a ring.  Boston, and the Lakers of course. 

The teams I think are over-hyped and over-rated yet again are:  Houston, Toronto (although I like the offseason moves), Utah (god I hate Utah, except for Deron, theyre nothing), Dallas, San Antonio, and many others who dont even desever to be listed.  Hope you enjoyed :)

This will be my second go around for this post.  Hopefully, my pc doesnt crash when Im finished typing the whole thing, again.

Theres only one October!  And with the end of October comes the sad fact that the end of Baseball is with us again.  After a wet and wild World Series conclusion in Philladelphia, the free agency season begins! Someone's team might get big player, along with a Big contract this year! 

As we all know, there are many big time players out there looking for alot of money.  But one has to wonder if the risk is worth it.  Are these players going to take your team to the next level, or just keep being busts in terms of sucess?  Are they worth a 10 year, multi million dollar deal?  One player Id like to start with is Mark Teixeira.  Big Tex is a huge free agent this year.  After failing to do what he was brought in to do, along with Tori Hunter and Gary Matthews Jr.  for the Los Angeles Angels, many teams are considering giving Teixeira big bucks for his output in the next 5 to 10 years.

Many teams have shown interest in Mark Teixeira, even from his days with the Rangers.  When his contract expired in Texas, there were many reports of the Yanks, Red Sox and obviously the Angels and Braves all making offers to Teixeira.  Even Tom Hicks and the Rangers organization offered him a huge deal (many people called it a bluff, cause the Rangers didnt want him, nor did Tex want to return.  By declining this Ginormous offer, something like $56 million for 3 years, Mark Teixeira comes across as the bad guy...A 'spit in the face' of Rangers fans) yet he kindly declined :).   The Yanks will be needing a power hitting first baseman after many roller-coaster seasons with Jason Giambi, and for them to make a move on him wouldnt suprise too many of us.  The problem with New York is that they have their all seeing baseball eyes on practically every free agent.  CC Sabathia, for one, who will also demand HUGE money.  Also, the Bronx Bombers have stated interest in K-Rod from L.A. - one of the games premiere closers in 08'.  As we all know, when the Yanks are interested in a player, the Red Sox usually are too.  Youkolis(sp?) is iffy at first base for the Red Sox, but he can also play 3rd base pretty well.  Boston would probably like to keep Big Papi at DH, although he is perfectly capable at 1st as well.  We dont know who has the edge on Mark Teixeira as of right now, but one thing is for sure, he will not settle for another one year, $12 million deal.  Boras and Tex want the 10 year, $200 million landmark.  So is Mark Teixeira worth all that money?  To many teams, Im sure he is, but he cant carry a team over the top into a world series.  He has already proven that, with a loaded first place Angels team, that he isnt that special of a player.  Sure, he is going to put up huge numbers for the rest of his career (wherever it may be) but he will never be a difference maker in the post-season.  Big Bad Tex isnt alone in this catagory.  Many 'hot-shot' players in the league now-a-days cant deliver when it counts.  Even, in many peoples opinion, one of the best EVER cant seem to get it done.  Thats right folks, Im taking about the Madonna man himself!  Mr.  Alex Rodriguez!  

Let me start off by saying that A-Rod is an outstanding ball player.  Like I said, possibly one of the greatest to ever play the game.  With the Possibility of shattering Hank Aaron's record (Barry owns nothing as far as Im concerned) and still having time to play the game.  A-Rods potential has been a glimmering hope for many teams interested in him for aid in a world series appearance.  But will he ever deliver in that catagory? 

Over the years, 13 to be exact, A-rod has AVERAGED 43 homers, 127 RBIs and 190 hits per year!  These numbers are outstanding, however A-rod has only made 7 playoff appearances, 3 ALDSs' and no world series games.  Even with a stacked Yanks team, full of hitters (kind of lacking on the pitching aspect of things) A-rod doesnt seem to be 'the one' to bring the pin stripes back to the world series.  Honestly, he never will be 'the one'.  If the Yanks wanna have a chance at anyhting in the near future, they will have to to one of two things.  1)  Stop signing big time players to huge deals, and win it all the Tampa Bay way (even though they lost the WS, they still made it).  If this does not work for mr.  Steinbrennner, then continue on with your usual ways and sign CC, and K-rod to massive 6 or 7 year deals.  Personally, I think the yanks have enough hitting, and signing Teixeira wouldnt do them much good.  A-rod may be carried to a world series with the Yanks, but he will definatly not be doing the carrying.  Take you $256 million, go get your gold gloves, your MVPs, your hitting titles and be one of the best, yet most disapointing players a fan could ever hope for.  Players like A-rod, and Teixeira wont carry teams.  They'll simply play for themselves, write their own history, and be another hall of famer who wasnt worth shit to his team.  When I think of A-rod, the only thing that comes to mind was him blowing off the final home run derby at yankee's stadium.  What kind of player, hired to represent the leagues most successful team, rejects the offer at the last All-Star game at the legendary Yankee Stadium?  Not only that, but once pulled from the actual game, he walks to the locker room, packs up his bags and leaves!?  No respect for his team, or the legacy they had before his sorry ass showed up.  Personally, I think A-rod didnt participate in the home run derby because he knew he was going to be shown up by a player from his ex team.  A player who loves the game, his team and the chances he has received to make a huge difference in Major League Baseball.  This player is non other than Josh Hamilton.

Hamilton has the opprotunity to do what no player has ever done before.  LEAD the Rangers to the promise land.  This may sound rediculous, but no player, in the history of the Rangers was able to do this.  Players like Juan Gonzales, and Pudge.  From A-Rod to Sammy Sosa and Rafeal Palmeiro.  Pitchers like Nolan Ryan and John Wettland all unable to create a TEAM in Texas.  With the aquisition of Josh Hamilton, the Texas Rangers have the best team chemistry, maybe in the league (although I wouldnt put them ahead of Tampa Bay, or even Boston).  Hamilton had a breakthrough year to say the least.  He led the American league in RBIs and was top 5 in home runs.  Also, one of the leading candidates for MVP.  The amazing thing is, Hamilton did all of this earning what A-rod likes to call 'laundry money' - $400,000!  One can tell by watching Josh, that he truely loves the game, and earning less money than any other superstar in the league has to make him feel very humble for his achievments.  Hamilton is due for a big contract, and a big career, my only hope is that he doesnt fall into the same catagory with the likes of A-rod.  He'll win his MVPS, and his batting titles, and maybe even a triple crown, but unlike A-rod - Hasmilton will win a world series.  ON THE RECORD:  THE RANGERS WILL WIN A WORLD SERIES BEFORE THE YANKS WILL AS LONG AS A-ROD IS ON THAT TEAM!  With rising stars, the Rangers potential is un-wavering.  IF you're unfamilir with the Rangers rosters moves over the 08' season, they had more players on the roster over the year, than any other team since the 80's.  An injury plagued team, and pitchers comming and going from the minors really showed us a glimpse of Texas Rangers baseball future.  Before he was injured, David Murphey was a rookie of the year candidate.  Rightfully so, leading all rookies in homers, RBIs and stolen bases right around the midway point in the season.  Obviously Longoria is going to be named rookie of the year, maybe even MVP the way he played (they've announced these awards by now Im sure, I just havent heard anything about them yet...anyone know?) but Murphey, despite injuries, still gave him a run for his money.  The strength of the Rangers, that alot of people dont know about is our catchers.  Laird, obviously the veteran leading the way, has always been able to throw out almost any runner.  The thing he lacks is consistency at the plate.  Taylor Teagarden, enter stage left.  Taylor played 16 games in his debut season!  In those 16 games, he had 6 home runs, 15 hits, 10 runs and a .319 average!  Imagine a full year for this kid.  Not only that, he makes even the worse pitchers in the league better - already favored by Rangers pitchers over Laird, Saltalamachia and Max Ramierez.  The Rangers are headed in the same direction as Tampa, and one player, other than Hamilton has done his fair share hitting long balls.  Longview TX's own CHRIS DAVIS!

One year from now, when the 2009 all star game happens in St. Louis, Dont be suprised to see Chris Davis right along side with Hamilton, Kinsler, Young and Bradley (if he stays with TX).  Also, dont be suprised to see him hitting long balls in the homerun derby along side Hamilton - putting on a clinic of 'how its done - the big boys way' for the rest of the league.  Chris Davis came out of AAA ball playing with the Frisco Ruffriders (terrible name).  As soon as he stepped onto the field at the Ballpark in Arlington, the likes of Mark Teixeira were no longer missed.  Davis hit the ball just as well, if not better than the selfish, money grubbing Teixeira.  Davis will be a long term solution at first base, just as long as Tom Hicks doesnt trade him for another wasted big deal player.  Chris Davis drempt of playing for the Texas Rangers as a kid, and hopefully he'll remain one for a very long time.  He has the potential to be THE BEST first baseman in the league.  The thing is, he plays 3rd also!  If Blalock stays injured, the Davis can play 3rd, then that makes room for bringing up more of our loaded minor league players.  Fact:  2 of the Rangers farm teams went to their league championship game in 08'.  Although both lost their series, maybe this championship mentallity will finally carry over to the Rangers. 

A-Rod is good.  Maybe great.  Maybe the best ever.  Teixeira can hit.  He can catch and throw.  But what these players lack is the certain something.  Hamilton has it.  Davis has it.  Kinsler is getting there.  But with the hitting combo that the Rangers offer, DO NOT be suprised to see them compete within the next 2 seasons.  All we need is an Ace to develope (which is alot to ask for), and were made in the shade.  Watch out LA!  Your division title days our numbered!