It isn’t quite the All-Star Break for baseball, yet most of the league’s teams are at or past the halfway point of this year’s grueling 162 game season. With that being said, there are certainly a number of teams and players that have already stood out in a positive way.
Yep, like a teacher gives her best students, it’s time to hand out some gold stars, this time to the best performers during baseball’s first half.
Gold Stars – Volume III Baseball’s Halfway Point
Tampa Bay Rays (49-32) Many prognosticators had these guys competing in 2008, but let’s be honest, did we all really believe it? One thing’s for sure, the Rays are loaded with talent all over the field, and oh yeah… Evan Longoria is for real.
Baltimore Orioles (41-39) Many critics had the Orioles finishing with the worst record in the majors. Meanwhile, the O’s are finding ways to stay afloat. Baltimore is 17-12 is one-run games, that’s four more one-run victories than all of last season. Their bullpen has been the strong point, posting the fifth best ERA in the majors (3.15). Andy MacPhail also deserves “props” for the deals he made in the offseason, as the players acquired in the Tejada and Bedard deals are making significant contributions to this year’s club (as well as in the minors).
Philadelphia Phillies (44-39) In recent years, Philadelphia has been a consistent slow starter. However, 2008 has been a different story. While many would point to Chase Utley and Cole Hamels as the main reasons for their hot start, one shouldn’t dismiss how deadly Philly’s bullpen has been, with a major league leading ERA of 2.62. Boston Red Sox (50-34) The reigning champs have sustained some injuries, with David Ortiz going down weeks ago and Curt Schilling being lost for the year. Still, the Sox keep picking each other up, and remain in a battle with the Rays and Angels for the AL’s best record.
Chicago Cubs (49-33) We knew they would likely perform well, but were the Cubbies expected to have a commanding lead for best record in the NL at the midway point? Maybe, maybe not. Either way, it’s going to be interesting to see what Chicago does at the trade deadline, especially with Carlos Zambrano injured. George Sherrill (3.53 ERA, 26 saves) Taking over as a full-time closer for the first time in his career, did anyone see these kind of numbers coming out of Sherrill? His 26 saves are second in the major leagues. If this guy doesn’t make the AL All-Star team, it’s a shame.
Carlos Quentin (.288 average, 19 HR, 61 RBI) Looks like the D’Backs gave up on Quentin one year too early, as he’s putting up MVP-type numbers for the White Sox through the first half.
Nate McLouth (.283 average, 15 HR, 51 RBI) Pittsburgh’s 26-year old center fielder has already reached career highs in home runs and RBI’s. The real question is, how long can he keep this torrid pace up? Chase Utley and Dan Uggla (23 HR each – leads MLB) Who out there had two National League second basemen leading the Majors in home runs? Yeah, I didn’t think so. The real question is, who deserves to start at second in the All-Star game?
Josh Hamilton (.312 average, 19 HR, 79 RBI) It’s been years since there was talk about a Triple Crown winner. That is, until Hamilton stepped up to the plate as a Texas Ranger in 2008. Currently, he leads the AL in homers and RBI’s, but has dropped to 10th in average. There’s plenty of season left for Hamilton to hit the record books.
Lance Berkman (.364 average, 21 HR, 67 RBI) Sticking with the Triple Crown theme, Lance Berkman has rustled up similar rumors in the NL this season. On a ridiculous pace in 2008, Berkman is currently second in the NL in average, 3rd in HR, and 2nd in RBI. Chipper Jones (.394 average, 16 HR, 46 RBI) It’s nice to once again have a story about someone chasing .400 this far into the season. Then again, do any of us really think that Chipper can pull it off? One thing’s for sure, if he does, Jones will be feeling… well… chipper.
Edinson Volquez (10-3, 2.08 ERA, 110 K’s) In his first full season, Volquez has been dominant since being traded from the Rangers to the Reds. He doesn’t count as a rookie, but should definitely be considered a candidate for the NL Cy Young award as the season progresses.
Tim Lincecum (9-1, 2.38 ERA, 114 K’s) In only his second season, the 24-year old Lincecum has been dominant in the young Giants rotation. If San Francisco could just acquire some supporting cast… Cliff Lee (11-1, 2.34 ERA, 90 K’s) and Ervin Santana (9-3, 3.32 ERA, 99 K’s) After abysmal 2007 campaigns, Lee (6.29 ERA) and Santana (5.76) were nearly traded by their respective teams. In the end, neither were dealt, and now both are comeback stories of the year. Justin Duchscherer (8-5, 1.91 ERA) With nearly 200 relief appearances over the last four seasons, Duchscherer was placed in the Oakland rotation this year, and has flourished. Now, he leads the majors with the best ERA, and a start in the All-Star game is certainly not out of the question.
Ryan Dempster (9-3, 3.26 ERA) Starting for the first time since 2003, Dempster has pitched extremely well for the Cubs. How smart is Lou Piniella looking right now for moving him back into the rotation?
Francisco Rodriguez (2.04 ERA, 31 saves) Rodriguez is having an incredible season, and well on his way to challenging Bobby Thigpen’s record of 57 saves (set back in 1990).
Silver Stars (Honorable Mentions) Rich Harden, Jim Johnson, Mike Mussina, J.D. Drew, Adrian Gonzalez, Ian Kinsler, Milton Bradley, John Danks, Joe Saunders, and Aaron Cook If you get a chance, check out this post’s counterpart, “Throwing Tomatoes: Baseball’s Halfway Point”.
This has been “Gold Stars”… let’s see who performs during the second half.
This weekend’s NFL Draft featured a number of similarities when compared to drafts of the past. As always, there were a boatload of trades and a plethora of surprise picks.
For me, there were a number of teams who came through with solid drafts. In particular, I’m handing out gold stars to the five teams listed below, in my NFL Draft edition of “Gold Stars”.
Gold Stars – Volume II – NFL Draft 2008 Please note: All picks state the round first, then the overall spot which the player was taken.
Kansas City Chiefs
Many of the critics are giving the Chiefs high marks for their draft. I’m joining in on that fun, and there are plenty of reasons why. Here’s the list of the new Chiefs:
1 (005) – Glenn Dorsey – DT – LSU 1 (015) – Branden Albert – OG – Virginia 2 (035) – Brandon Flowers – CB – Virginia Tech 3 (073) – Jamaal Charles – RB – Texas 3 (076) – Brad Cottam – TE – Tennessee 3 (082) – DaJuan Morgan – S – North Carolina State 4 (105) – William Franklin – WR – Missouri 5 (140) – Brandon Carr – CB – Grand Valley State 6 (170) – Barry Richardson – OT – Clemson 6 (182) – Kevin Robinson – WR – Utah State 7 (210) – Brian Johnston – DE – Gardner Webb 7 (239) – Mike Merritt – TE – Central Florida
When you’re a team with major holes to fill, the wise choice would be to start in the trenches. That’s exactly what the Chiefs did, and they did so in grand fashion by taking two of the most talented in the draft, LSU’s Glenn Dorsey and OG Branden Albert from Virginia. The Chiefs also managed to snag the talented Brandon Flowers for their secondary, as well as former Texas Longhorn Jamaal Charles to help out the running game. Still, the gem here is Dorsey, the former LSU star who despite being double teamed all season, managed seven sacks and 12 ½ tackles for a loss throughout LSU’s national championship run.
Washington Redskins
Wasn’t it a little strange seeing Washington’s name pop up so many times on the draft board? I think so. Either way, the ‘Skins took advantage of the opportunities they had, with a number of solid additions. Here’s the list:
2 (034) – Devin Thomas – WR – Michigan State 2 (048) – Fred Davis – TE – USC 2 (051) – Malcolm Kelly – WR – Oklahoma 3 (096) – Chad Rinehart – OG – Northern Iowa 4 (124) – Justin Tryon – CB – Arizona State 6 (168) – Durant Brooks – P – Georgia Tech 6 (180) – Kareem Moore – S – Nicholls State 6 (186) – Colt Brennan – QB – Hawaii 7 (242) – Rob Jackson – DE – Kansas State 7 (249) – Christopher Horton – S – UCLA
The Redskins had a great draft for a number of reasons. OK, so they seemed to ignore the D-line need again, but the big targets at WR were added. It was a need after falling short in trading for Cincinnati’s Chad Johnson. In recent weeks, the talk on the Washington Post website was the ‘Skins looking at Malcolm Kelly with the 21st pick, stating that Devin Thomas would not fall to them. Not only did Washington manage to select both receivers, but the Redskins also were able to trade out of the 21st slot for additional picks, and still get both players. That alone points to a successful draft. In addition to that accomplishment, Washington had a few other intriguing picks, including arguably the best punter in college last year (Durant Brooks), as well as Colt Brennan. Sure, Brennan got beaten up by Georgia on the national stage. He also wasn’t impressive in the Senior Bowl. He also has said to have iffy form. All that aside, he has the character, a ton of records, and has worked with a former NFL coach in June Jones. All in all, it makes him an intriguing late round pick by the ‘Skins.
Baltimore Ravens
Another draft, another Ravens team searching for an impact QB. OK, so maybe it doesn’t happen every year, but it sure seems like it. I was impressed with Baltimore’s draft for a number of reasons. Here’s the list:
1 (018) – Joe Flacco – QB – Delaware 2 (055) – Ray Rice – RB – Rutgers 3 (071) – Tavares Gooden – ILB – Miami (FLA) 3 (086) – Tom Zbikowski – S – Notre Dame 3 (099) – Oniel Cousins – OG – UTEP 4 (106) – Marcus Smith – WR – New Mexico 4 (133) – David Hale – OT – Weber State 6 (206) – Haruki Nakamura – S – Cincinnati 7 (215) – Justin Harper – WR – Virginia Tech 7 (240) – Allen Patrick – RB – Oklahoma
With Steve McNair retiring, the Ravens desperately were seeking a top QB. If not Matt Ryan, then it was going to be Delaware’s Joe Flacco, featuring a towering 6’6” frame and powerful arm. While I think the Ravens may have traded up a little high (in a panic) to get Flacco, I still think this could pan out to be a solid “un-Boller-like” selection. Next, there’s RB Ray Rice from Rutgers. I loved watching this kid play in college. Sure, scouts say he may not have the size, but man he runs hard. Like a bull, and I think he’ll be a fine addition as well. Finally, I can’t help but admit that Tom Zbikowski, the former Notre Dame safety, also sticks out in my mind. He can play special teams, he has speed, he hits hard, and he’s smart. He should be a great fit with the Ravens. All in all, a solid draft for the men in purple.
Carolina Panthers
I think the Panthers addressed some needs for sure, and got some solid value in a number of their slots. In a year where John Fox will be under a microscope more than ever, here’s their list of new additions:
1 (013) – Jonathan Stewart – RB – Oregon 1 (019) – Jeff Otah – OT – Pittsburgh 3 (067) – Charles Godfrey – CB – Iowa 3 (074) – Dan Connor – ILB – Penn State 5 (141) – Gary Barnidge – TE – Louisville 6 (181) – Nick Hayden – DT – Wisconsin 7 (221) – Hilee Taylor – OLB – North Carolina 7 (241) – Geoff Schwartz – OT – Oregon 7 (250) – Mackenzy Bernadeau – OG – Bentley
I admit when trading up, I thought the Panthers may have given up too much. Still, they were aggressive and filled needs, and you can’t fault them for that. Jeff Otah was listed as one of the better linemen in the draft, and should eventually help Carolina with their running game. As for former Oregon Duck RB Jonathan Stewart, call me crazy, but I think he could have a better career than Darren McFadden. Finally, I want to mention former Penn State LB Dan Connor, who was originally projected as a late first round pick. Instead, he fell to the third round, where Carolina gets great value, and a guy with great instincts. I think Connor will go on to excel in the NFL, just like former teammate Paul Posluszny began to do before a freak arm injury last season.
New York Jets
After a major drop off from a solid 2006 season, the Jets needed to improve in a big way. And on paper, it certainly looks like they may have done that. We’ll see how this crop does, but here’s New York’s solid list:
1 (006) – Vernon Gholston – DE – Ohio State 1 (030) – Dustin Keller – TE – Purdue 4 (113) – Dwight Lowery – CB – San Jose State 5 (162) – Erik Ainge – QB – Tennessee 6 (171) – Marcus Henry – WR – Kansas 7 (211) – Nate Garner – OT – Arkansas
Sure, the Jets didn’t have as many picks as the other teams mentioned above, but they picked quite well with what they had available to them. The pick most intriguing to me is Dustin Keller, former TE from Purdue. Scouts say he lacks in size and blocking ability, but I think this guy is underrated. He has 4.5 speed for a tight end, coupled with great hands. With that alone, he could cause some nightmares and tough matchups for opponents. He should be a solid weapon for the Jets passing game. In addition to Keller, I think Vernon Gholston could end up being a very talented defensive end in the NFL. I think both he and Dorsey could have solid careers. Finally, the Erik Ainge pick intrigues me. He is a solid QB for a fifth round pick, and he certainly has the size at 6’5”. Who knows, maybe he could climb the depth charts. The Jets certainly need a QB to step to the forefront. Hey, Tom Brady did it.
There you have it, five teams that personally jumped out at me during this year’s NFL Draft. Certainly, I liked some other picks in the draft such as the Steelers stealing Mendenhall late and the Cowboys adding speedster back Felix Jones, among others. Still, the five above teams in particular had unique moves, situations, or multiple picks that I felt could pan out or add some value. Feel free to pitch in your thoughts on the draft, and who you personally would give a gold star too. This has been “Gold Stars”, and that’s a wrap for another NFL Draft. When is kickoff?
Never out of season, it’s time to break out the tomatoes once again, and direct them at the individuals throughout sports that deserve them the most. Alongside “Throwing Tomatoes” this week, I present you with “Gold Stars”, which will act as the red fruit’s positive counterpart.
I don’t know about you, but every now and then in grade school, I would have a teacher that would give you a gold star on your homework, along with a “Great job”, or a “Well done” to go along with it. From what I hear, that was fairly common, and I bring that concept to sports.
This edition of each features all but the NFL Draft, which will get its own separate post (coming soon).
Where do you direct your tomatoes and gold stars this week?
Throwing Tomatoes – Volume VI plus Gold Stars – Volume I
MLB Arizona Diamondbacks …for not just having the great pitching… but hitting too. Hey, watch out baseball world, the Diamondbacks aren’t just pitching well with the likes of Brandon Webb, Dan Haren, and company. Their young bats are hitting too… and hitting a lot. The D’Backs own the best record in baseball, and show no signs of slowing down.
Barry Zito … for pocketing so much of San Francisco’s cash, yet not delivering in return. Wow, where do you rank Barry Zito among the biggest free agent busts in baseball history? My goodness, if I’m a Giants fan, I’m thanking the baseball gods for at least giving the city of San Francisco a pitcher like Tim Lincecum to help them forget about Barry (no, not that Barry). NBA Philadelphia 76ers …for giving the Pistons fits thus far in the first round. How many of you can honestly say that you thought Detroit would have this much trouble with the Sixers? Give Mo Cheeks and Philly credit. They’re playing hard… and playing well, even after faltering in the second half during Game 4 this weekend. The series is tied at two games apiece.
Phoenix Suns …after backup themselves up into an NBA Playoffs corner. Sure, the Suns spanked the Spurs in Game 4, but a 3-1 first round deficit is not what Phoenix had in mind this postseason. Not with Shaq in town. I would be shocked to see the defending champion Spurs lose this lead. You should be too.
NFL Washington Redskins …for finally changing their team philosophy regarding the NFL Draft. How did I think the ‘Skins did in the draft? I’ll share that in my next post. Instead, my gold star goes to Washington for changing their philosophy and actually keeping draft picks this time around.
Cincinnati Bengals …for being a stubborn joke of a franchise this offseason. The Chad Johnson story is ridiculous. OK, Johnson isn’t perfect, but he said he wants to be traded. The Bengals desperately need new fresh faces to come in. The Redskins offer what could end up being two first round picks, and Cincy doesn’t take it? Are you kidding me? Hey Cincy, don’t you realize Randy Moss was dealt for a fourth round pick?
NHL Dallas Stars …for continuing their playoff push with a 2-0 series lead over #2 seed San Jose. How fitting it is to give the Dallas Stars a gold star. Still, after ousting the Stanley Cup champs in round one, the Stars haven’t skipped a beat , and have now taken the first two games over the Sharks on the road.
Caps/Flyers Calls and Mishaps …after a few iffy calls and missed opportunities in the Washington/Philadelphia Game 7 Not to discredit the Flyers and how well they played in their series against Washngton, but how frustrated are those running the NHL right now? They were that close to having a dream matchup of Crosby and the Penguins vs. Ovechkin and the Capitals. Still, what looked like a few iffy calls here and there, combined with some missed opportunities by the Capitals, instead you have Philly advancing to play Montreal. Oh well NHL… maybe another year.
College Basketball Tyler Hansbrough …for choosing to come back for his senior year. How many players in the college ranks say they’re coming back for another year, only to later change their mind and go pro? Prior to March Madness, Hansbrough stated that he planned to come back if North Carolina didn’t win a championship. The Heels didn’t win, and Tyler kept his word. I applaud him for doing so, and I think one more year in college should help him prep more for the pros too.
Danny Green …on the other hand, will be testing the NBA waters. Sticking with North Carolina, sixth man Danny Green will declare for the NBA draft, but not hire an agent. Therefore, he could return. OK, I get it with Ellington and Lawson doing the same, but Green? No offense Danny, you can play ball, but you should stick in college longer.
Miscellaneous Danica Patrick …for becoming the first female to win an IndyCar race. I admit it, I was starting to think Danica was going to become one of those stories, where a ton of hype is tossed out, but no victories ever arrive. She proved me wrong and was able to make it happen recently. What a story it was, and what an emotional moment for Patrick, her family, her team, and her fans. Bravo Danica, that’s a gold star for you.
Michelle Wie …for not living up to the hype, and feeling additional pressure from Danica. You think Wie is feeling any any additional pressure now? I don’t care if she plays a completely different sport. Michelle Wie tried to compete with the men in golf, and didn’t come close. She hasn’t been able to compete with her own gender either. Now, the pressure is really on.
Camden (A tomato/gold star combo) I throw a tomato at the unfairness of life, but give a gold star to a great pet. For those of you who are pet lovers out there, you’ll understand. Camden (yes, he’s named after Oriole Park at Camden Yards – so this is partially sports related), my one-year old cat, died unexpectedly a few weeks ago at the age of one. He apparently had an underlying heart condition that was undetectable. He will be sorely missed by me, and by everyone that came into contact with him. R.I.P. little man…
Honorary Tomato Throwers of the Week Because those who found success earn a chance to sling one at their opposition Detroit Red Wings – at the Colorado Avalance, so much for that heated and tight rivalry. Atlanta Hawks – at the Boston Celtics, who many thought would easily sweep the #8 seed Tampa Bay Rays – at Boston, after sweeping the reeling Red Sox over the weekend.
This has been a special two-pack of “Throwing Tomatoes” and the all new “Gold Stars”. Please see my other post, featuring the NFL Draft breakdown, with a “Gold Stars” spin... coming soon.
