“Throwing Tomatoes” has officially been delayed a day each week due to College Football and the NFL starting up – but don’t fret, like Jell-O, there’s always room for tomatoes! Take the following examples, which headline this week’s batch:
Throwing Tomatoes – Volume XVI
Chad Ocho Cinco …for legally changing his name from Johnson to Ocho Cinco. It’s ridiculous. It’s silly – but it’s so Chad Johnson – I mean Ocho Cinco. Shawn Merriman …for playing injured. OK, it isn’t just an injury. It’s two torn knee ligaments (LCL and PCL). Give the guy the “Tough as Nails” award, but it’s a “buy one, get one free” gig. He also gets the “Dumb as Rocks” award too. Sorry Shawn, but get surgery so you don’t risk the rest of your career.
Jim Tressel and Ohio State …for leaving Beanie Wells in the Youngstown State game midway through the third quarter. It’s a known rule in college football. You take your stars out as soon as the game is well in hand. Take the Beanie Wells situation, for example. The Buckeyes led 33-0 midway through the third quarter, and instead of having Wells out of the game, he got hurt instead.
Jose Guillen …for having to be restrained from a heckling fan. There are hecklers everywhere, especially when alcohol is flowing in sports stadiums. Athletes are paid big bucks to tune those fans out. Even with the anger management issues that Guillen tends to let come out, he needs to be the better person and avoid it. Then again, playing for the Royals may be getting to him too.
Koby Clemens …for “misremembering” the law.
The Rocket’s kid has been arrested, along with two other minor
leaguers, after a disturbance late the other night in Salem, VA. Good
ol’ Koby – what a chip off the ol’ block, eh?
Ana Ivanovic …for making unfortunate tennis history. Usually, making history in sports is a good thing – but not for Ivanovic in this case, who lost to the 188th-ranked Julie Coin in the U.S. Open. On the bright side, it gives me the opportunity to provide a photo of Ivanovic to those that adore her – uh – tennis skills.
The C.C. Sabathia “One Hitter” …for being handled the way it has been. The biggest part about a no-hitter is not just the accomplishment, but the excitement and energy that gets generated immediately during and after it happens. Even if the MLB reverses the questionable call of a base hit against Sabathia, the accomplishment has been ruined – and for those counting opinions, I do think it was an error, not a hit.
Kansas City Chiefs …for cutting kicker Jay Feely after one day. How would you like to be hired and fired within 24 hours? Yeah, that’s what I thought.
Honorary Tomato Throwers of the Week Because those who found success earn a chance to sling one at their opposition
East Carolina – at #17 Virginia Tech after a 27-22 upset victory.
Tampa Bay Rays – at their critics – as entering September, they have the best record in baseball.
Jimmie Johnson – at the field after winning the race at Fontana over the weekend.
This has been “Throwing Tomatoes”… presented a day late, but not a tomato short.
College football has begun – well, for most teams. There are those that didn’t show up over the weekend. Don’t worry though, they get awards too – specifically… the All-Chump Team for Week 1. Here they are… read ‘em and weep!
College Football: The Week 1 All-Chump Team
QUARTERBACK Starter: Tommy Beecher – South Carolina 12 for 22, 106 yards, 4 INT
While Beecher stunk up the joint, Smelley was a breath of fresh air.
Backup: Sean Glennon – Virginia Tech 14 for 23, 139 yards, 2 INT It’s time for the Hokies to remove Tyrod Taylor’s red shirt and replace it with… well… a red shirt – maroon red, that is.
RUNNING BACK
Starters: James Davis and CJ Spiller – Clemson Tigers Combined for 8 carries and 20 yards rushing against Alabama
Clemson’s dynamic duo only running for the big two-oh? That simply won’t get it done.
Backup: LeSean McCoy – Pittsburgh 23 carries for 71 yards
One would expect more production from a Heisman dark horse against a Bowling Green team that allowed 208 rushing yards per game in 2007. Correction… former Heisman dark horse.
WIDE RECEIVER
Starter: Brian Robiskie – Ohio State 3 catches for 41 yards versus a lackluster Youngstown State team
Sure, the Buckeyes blanked the Penguins in Week 1, but going forward, Ohio State is going to need more from Robiskie and the offense if they want to win the Big Ten. Backup: Demetrius Byrd – LSU 3 catches for 34 yards against Appalachian State He didn’t really need a big game in this one, but as one of the better receivers in the country, you would expect flashier numbers from Byrd, who needs to step up with guys like Early Doucet gone to the NFL.
TRENCHES: O-LINE & D-LINE
Starter: North Carolina D-Line No sacks vs. McNeese State
Someone in powder blue has to be picked on – especially after the apparently much improved Heels struggled to defeat McNeese State
Backup: South Carolina O-Line Allowed five sacks to North Carolina State during their 34-0 victory.
Even shutouts can be deceiving. The Wolfpack may have been blanked on the board, but they exposed holes with the Gamecocks by getting five sacks, along with four picks of Beecher.
RUSH DEFENSE
Starter: Towson Allowed 558 yards rushing to Navy, including a Midshipmen school record 348 yards by Shun White on 19 carries.
OK, so the Tigers are a 1-AA team, but nearly 600 yards on the ground? Some teams don’t give up that total over half a season.
Backup: Clemson Gave up 239 total yards on the ground to Alabama in a 34-10 loss
‘Bama had two backs with 90+ yards on the ground, one of which was Glen Coffee. I guess it’s true, caffeine will kill ya.
PASS DEFENSE
Starter: Missouri Allowed 451 yards and 5 TD’s to Juice Williams (Illinois)
Thank goodness for Chase Daniel and that potent offense – because the Missouri secondary couldn’t cover Bea Arthur in the open field.
Backup: Stanford Allowed 404 yards passing and two 150-yard receivers in their win against Oregon State Both Stroughter and Morales each had at least a 12-pack of catches (one had 13). The last time I saw two 12-packs come and go that fast, I was at John Daly’s house.
SPECIAL TEAMS
Starter: Virginia Tech Punt blocked for TD with under two minutes to go
The Hokies special teams group was decent throughout, but when it was crunch time, they gave up the play that ultimately lost them the game.
Backup: Scott Blair – Georgia Tech 0 for 2 FG’s and 5 for 6 on extra points versus Jacksonville State
OK, so the Yellow Jackets didn’t need the points this week, but with Boston College as Tech’s next opponent, Blair is going to have to stop kicking like Ray Finkle.
Take a deep breath… the wait is finally over. Football is here!
Every season, each team earns a clean slate, and 2008 will be no different. However, whether a team likes it or not, everyone earns a reputation and a theme even before the season begins. With that being said, I’ve pieced together a series of conference previews, with a unique twist.
Call this one a SEC preview set to music – featuring all twelve teams presented in the order of standing at the end of the 2007 season – and the theme song they should be playing in the locker room this week.
SEC EAST PREVIEW
Tennessee Volunteers “Rock Steady” – No Doubt
“Steady now, stop rocking it… it’s a delicate environment.” Erik Ainge may be gone to the NFL, but the Volunteers will be just fine on offense, as there are a handful of veterans present, including Arian Foster, Lucas Taylor, and Josh Briscoe. Therefore, the Tennessee offense should be “rock steady” for QB Jonathan Crompton – or “rocky top steady” if you will. It’s the Tennessee defense that will have to step it up, especially after losing talented players such as Jerrod Mayo and Jonathan Hefney. Another New Year’s Day bowl is certainly not out of the question for the Volunteers.
Top Returner: RB Arian Foster (1,193 yds rushing and 12 TD’s in ‘07)
Georgia Bulldogs “Great Expectations” – Styx
“Everybody will be watching just to see what can you do. They’ll be waiting, anticipating for the genius to come through.” Before you say it, yes “Who Let The Dogs Out” was the logical choice, but I thought I would go in another direction. I’ll be honest, if I were to rank a team by talent, I would put Georgia at the top of the list – and I’m certainly not alone there. The question remains, can Georgia live up to these “great expectations”? The schedule isn’t exactly easy, with a road trip to Arizona State being added in the mix with an already brutal SEC schedule that features LSU and Florida in back-to-back weeks. Still, as we all know, one loss can still get you into the title game – heck, even two.
Top Returner: RB Knowshon Moreno (1,334 yds and 14 TD’s in ‘07)
Florida Gators “Torn” – Toad The Wet Sprocket
“I feel nothing besides this pain… please don’t watch me.” Yes, the Gators are loaded with talent – again. Yet, that isn’t the story in Gainesville entering the 2008 season. Instead, it’s the injuries – specifically the five torn ACL’s that Florida players have sustained. Among the injured include starting TE Cornelius Ingram and starting safety Dorian Munroe, who are both out for the year. Overall, the Gators only lost 11 lettermen, while also having another solid recruiting class (#12 in 2008 according to Scout.com). While health has been an issue, depth likely won’t be. So does anyone know when Gatorade Ligament is going to be released? Something tells me it will taste the same as all the others.
Top Returner: QB Tim Tebow (3,286 yds passing, 895 yds rushing, 55 total TD’s in ‘07)
Kentucky Wildcats “Down In A Hole” – Alice in Chains
“I’d like to fly but my wings have been so denied.” On paper, it looks like this season will be a drop-off for the Wildcats, especially on offense, where only four starters return. Gone are most of the offensive weapons, from almost the entire receiving corps, to Rafael Little, to star QB Andre Woodson. The defense returns eight starters, but in the tough SEC Conference, it may be too much of a hole for Kentucky in 2008.
Top Returner: DE Jeremy Jarmon (62 tackles and 9 sacks in ‘07)
South Carolina Gamecocks “Double Vision” – Foreigner
“I get my double vision, oh, seeing double double…” This season in South Carolina, there isn’t just one Spurrier calling plays, but two, as Steve Spurrier Jr. is also in the mix. The report during the opener against N.C. State was that Spurrier Jr. is calling the plays, but the “Ol’ Ball Coach” himself has the right to override any call at any time. Don’t worry my friends, you aren’t seeing double on the sidelines. Still, the question remains… how will this change affect South Carolina throughout the season? The QB position features a trio of options, and this team could easily go in either direction as the season progresses.
Top Returner: WR Kenny McKinley (77 rec, 968 yds, and 9 TD’s in ‘07)
Vanderbilt Commodores “Gone” – Pearl Jam
“Gonna leave ‘em all behind me cause this time I’m gone… long gone.” Coming off a 5-7 season, the Commodores return only nine starters, including only three on offense. The rest of the starters are long gone. It’s been over 25 years now since Vandy has been to a bowl game, and it looks like the Commodores will be waiting for at least one more year.
Top Returner: CB DJ Moore (83 tackles and 6 INT’s in ‘07)
SEC WEST PREVIEW
LSU Tigers “We Are The Champions” – Queen “We are the champions – my friends. And we’ll keep on fighting – ‘til the end.” Entering this season, Les Miles and the Tigers earn the right to say they are the champions. As 2008 approaches, there is enough talent still present to give it another go. Still, 24 lettermen have moved on and only 12 starters return on this year’s LSU squad. A midseason three week stretch at Florida, at South Carolina, and home vs. Georgia won’t be easy either. With that being said, LSU’s talent is going to cause all kinds of headaches for the rest of the SEC.
Top Returner: DE Kirston Pittman (68 tackles and 8 sacks in ‘07)
Auburn Tigers “What You Are” – Dave Matthews Band
“What you’ve become, just as I have… are you and I so alike?” Over the last few seasons, it seems like Auburn struggles against the weaker teams, while excelling against the top teams. Coming off a 9-4 season, the Tigers return 16 starters, and have enough talent to take the SEC – if they can keep their focus across the entire season. In addition, Auburn’s toughest road foes are West Virginia and Alabama, as they host Georgia, Tennessee, and LSU.
Top Returner: DE Antonio Coleman (38 tackles, 8.5 sacks, and 9.5 tackles for a loss in ‘07)
Arkansas Razorbacks “Crash Burn” – Blues Traveler
“I’m gonna watch you… gonna watch you fall like a tower of cards.” Bobby Petrino left the Atlanta Falcons and has come to Fayetteville to run the Arkansas program. While Petrino has had success in the college ranks (at Louisville), there are going to be some growing pains in the early going – and for a number of reasons. First off, Petrino and Co. bring an entirely different offense to Arkansas, 25 lettermen have been lost, and only 11 starters return. Most importantly, nearly 3,000 yards of rushing offense is gone to the NFL, as Darren McFadden and Felix Jones have departed. In a tough SEC conference, it likely will be a difficult year for Petrino and the Razorbacks.
Top Returner: C Jonathan Luigs
Mississippi State Bulldogs “Hey Bulldog” – The Beatles
“Some kind of innocence is measured out in years.” Mississippi State was a team that crept under the radar in 2007. When they lost to the SEC powers, they were blown out – yet they still managed eight wins, including victories over Auburn and Alabama. Head Coach Sylvester Croom also nearly doubled his win total from the previous three seasons combined. With 14 starters returning in 2008, the question remains as “Hey Bulldog”, who are you going to be this year? Likely not an SEC title contender, but a second straight bowl appearance is certainly not out of the question.
Top Returner: FS Derek Pegues (50 tackles and 5 INT’s in ‘07)
Alabama Crimson Tide “Dream On” – Aerosmith
“Every time I look in the mirror, all these lines on my face getting clearer – the past is gone.” Nick Saban certainly has Alabama moving in the right direction, especially after taking the #1 recruiting class according to Scout.com for 2008. Still, as we know, that class will have a more significant impact down the road. For this season, the Crimson Tide will be a solid team, but title hopes are just a dream for now, especially with the road schedule that Alabama has on its plate – including Clemson (on opening weekend), Tennessee, LSU, and Georgia.
Top Returner: FS Rashad Johnson (94 tackles and 6 INT’s in ‘07)
Mississippi Rebels “Houston” – R.E.M. “So a man’s put to task and challenges…” Houston Nutt takes over the Ole Miss program that once featured Ed Orgeron, who was responsible for recruiting a large amount of Pete Carroll’s former talent at USC. At Ole Miss, Orgeron was able to bring in some talent, yet unable to lead the Rebels to a bowl appearance. Nutt, who’s had plenty of success at Arkansas, could be just what this team needs to get back on track. A bowl appearance will be tough in 2008, especially with road opponents that include Wake Forest, Florida, Alabama, and LSU.
Top Returner: DE Greg Hardy (64 tackles and 10 sacks in ‘07)
Take a deep breath… the wait is finally over. Football is here!
Every season, each team earns a clean slate, and 2008 will be no different. However, whether a team likes it or not, everyone earns a reputation and a theme even before the season begins. With that being said, I’ve pieced together a series of conference previews, with a unique twist.
Call this one a Big Ten preview set to music – featuring all eleven teams presented in the order of standing at the end of the 2007 season – and the theme song they should be playing in the locker room this week.
BIG TEN PREVIEW
Ohio State Buckeyes “Third Season” – AFI “But I’ll wait… ‘til the seasons change. I’ll wait… ‘til the fall comes.” For the Buckeyes, it’s been back-to-back National Championship appearances, both leading to painful and lopsided losses. Ohio State is back with most of #### talent intact, featuring stars like Beanie Wells and James Laurinaitis. It certainly looks like the Buckeyes are the favorite to win the Big Ten once again, but head coach Jim Tressel and the boys are hoping the third time is the charm when it comes to the BCS.
Top Returner: RB Beanie Wells (1,609 yds rushing, 15 TD’s in ‘07)
Illinois Fighting Illini “Lost!” – Coldplay
“Just because I’m losing, doesn’t mean I’m lost, doesn’t mean I’ll stop.” When looking at the Illini, what’s most visible is what is lost, and that’s the 24 lettermen, headlined by first round draft pick Rashard Mendenhall (to the Pittsburgh Steelers). On top of that, Illinois also has to face Penn State, Michigan, and Wisconsin on the road. Still, with all this stacked against them, you really can’t count head coach Ron Zook and the Illini, as they should scrap their way to a respectable season - just not matching their nine win 2007 campaign.
Top Returner: WR Arrelious Benn (54 rec., 676 yds., 2 TD’s in ’07)
Michigan Wolverines “Free Fallin’” – Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
“I wanna free fall out into nothin’, gonna leave this world for a while.” There are a lot of new faces in Ann Arbor, and while new head coach Rich Rodriguez is at the top of that list, the biggest hit the Wolverines have taken is on offense, where only three starters return. Among the list of the departed include Chad Henne, Mike Hart, Mario Manningham, and Ryan Mallett. With that being said, it’s likely that the Wolverines, under a new system, will likely take a few steps backward before they take any forward.
Top Returner: DT Terrance Taylor (55 tackles, 3.5 sacks in ’07)
Wisconsin Badgers “Almost There” – The Police
“In the end, there’s a silence, and the TV set doesn’t show the fall.” The Badgers are a tough team to figure out every year. Then again, maybe not. There’s always so much talent, often centered around a power back on offense and a bunch of big bodies on both sides of the trenches. Still, when push comes to shove, Wisconsin always ends up in the top tier of the Big Ten, but never quite at the top - but instead “almost there”. This season looks like more of the same, but having Ohio State and Penn State at home could help the Badgers shake this recent trend.
Top Returner: TE Travis Beckum (75 rec., 982 yds., 6 TD’s in ’07) Penn State Nittany Lions “Young Man, Old Man” – Black Crowes “Young man crazy, old man wise… Some folks real, some just jive.” This year’s Penn State team can be summed up by discussing two people, the young man, that being new starting QB Daryll Clark, and the old man, head coach Joe Paterno. Paterno is heading into the final year of his contract, and there is a lot of talk about possible retirement, even though you would never hear that from Paterno himself. As for Clark, he isn’t crazy, but crazy talented, with a Michael Robinson-like skillset that will push Penn State to the spread-like offense that they ran in 2005 – and ran quite successfully, I might add. If all the pieces fall into place, Penn State could surprise in 2008.
Top Returner: DE Maurice Evans (54 tackles, 12.5 sacks in ‘07)
Iowa Hawkeyes “Bad Boys” – Inner Circle “Watcha gonna do when they come for you?” So many teams have been dealing with off-the-field problems, but Iowa’s seem to be near the top of the list, as eighteen different players have been in trouble with the law one way or another. Whether a coach will admit it or not, these distractions do affect the team, and in a big way. On the plus side, Iowa only lost 14 lettermen from last year’s team, and more importantly, the two Big Ten teams the Hawkeyes do not face are Ohio State and Michigan. If they can avoid the off-field distractions, Iowa could return to a bowl game.
Top Returner: OG Seth Olson
Purdue Boilermakers “Last Exit” – Pearl Jam “For better or for worse… a best we began…” This will be head coach Joe Tiller’s “last exit” at Purdue, as he retires after this season. Over the years, he’s seen a number of talented Boilermaker players, from current NFL great Drew Brees, to senior starting QB Curtis Painter. With that being said, Purdue does have some talent returning, and there’s no doubt that the Boilermakers will do their best to have Tiller go out in style. Personally, I see a bowl game, but not one on New Year’s Day.
Top Returner: QB Curtis Painter (3,846 passing yds., 29 TD’s in ’07)
Indiana Hoosiers “Outshined” – Soundgarden
“I’ve kept the movie rolling, but the story’s getting old now. I just looked in the mirror, things aren’t looking so good.” Last season, the Hoosiers played in their first bowl game since 1993. Still, with the talented WR James Hardy headed to the NFL and flashy QB Kellen Lewis being suspended through the spring, it certainly seems like Indiana will once again return to a level below mediocrity – not only being “outshined” by the rest of the Big Ten, but once again by their their basketball program. On the bright side, at least they don’t have to wear those candy-cane-#### pants.
Top Returner: DE Greg Middleton (50 tackles, 16 sacks in ’07)
Michigan State Spartans “Forgotten” – Linkin Park “Moving all around, screaming of the ups and downs…” The Spartans are that team that always seems to get out to a decent start, before imploding midway through the year. Call it coaching, call it lack of focus… I call it consistency. Even so, that doesn’t dismiss that this team does have explosive talent, led by senior veterans Brian Hoyer and Javon Ringer. This is not a team you want to get into a shootout with – and not one you should forget about either.
Top Returner: RB Javon Ringer (1,447 rushing yds., 6 TD’s in ’07)
Northwestern Wildcats “Runnin’ With The Pack” – Bad Company “You can’t hold me down, you can’t hold me back, goin’ my own way…” Northwestern was a very quiet 6-6 last season – so quiet in fact, that the Wildcats didn’t earn a bowl appearance. OK, so they lost to Duke and got blown out by 51 points to the Buckeyes. Still, the Wildcats return 15 starters, led by the talented one-two offensive combo of C.J. Bacher and Tyrell Sutton. With Penn State and Wisconsin off the schedule, the Wildcats could sneak into their first bowl game since 2005.
Top Returner: QB C.J. Bacher (3,656 passing yds., 19 TD’s in ’07)
Minnesota Golden Gophers “The Only Way Is Up” – Yazz
“Things may be a little hard now, but we’ll find a brighter day.” 2007 was a long season for the Golden Gophers – very long. The only thing not long about it may have been the total yardage by the team’s offense. After a 1-11 season where the only win was in OT over Miami, OH, Minnesota can only go up from here. The good news is this: Minnesota only lost 18 lettermen, while also managing to crack the top 30 on Scout.com’s Team Recruiting Rankings for 2008 – not bad for a team that put up a goose egg in the Big Ten standings last year.
Top Returner: WR Eric Decker (67 rec., 909 yds., 9 TD’s in ’07)
The 2008 Olympics are ongoing in Beijing, China. Over in the States, baseball is reaching the stretch run, preseason NFL is at its midway point, and college football is creeping up on us. With all that’s going in sports, there’s also an itch to throw tomatoes – but as you’ll soon see, that itch is taken to all kinds of levels this week.
Throwing Tomatoes – Volume XV
Chinese Gymnasts …for not being of age. OK, OK… so I don’t have any proof… but look at them. Does anyone really believe that they’re all 16-years old? I tried to call and inquire, but no one picked up - I think their babysitter may be hogging the phone. I kid… I kid. Spain Basketball …for their inappropriate team photo. There really isn’t much you can say here, other than the fact that the Spanish basketball team’s picture – which was supposed to be a local joke – was completely inappropriate and uncalled for. To keep from promoting it further, I’m not including the image.
Gymnastics Judges …for awarding a bronze medal to Cheng Fei, who fell on the vault. Listen, I get the whole “level of difficulty” concept. Even so, I don’t agree with a gymnast earning a medal after landing on her knees. Perhaps there was a little homecookin’ going on for Fei and the Chinese gymnasts? Either way, I feel for USA gymnast Alicia Sacramone, who finished fourth – adding yet another tough moment to her Olympic experience.
Swedish Wrestler Ara Abrahamian …for his lack of sportsmanship. Did anyone hear about this guy? He won a bronze medal, and followed that accomplishment by placing it on the ground.and leaving the medal ceremony in protest to the judge’s ruling. Wow, that’s sportsmanlike. There is such thing as a golden tomato - and this guy earned it. It’s the only gold he’s getting this year – and by the way, reports are saying that the IOC has stripped his bronze too. USC Football’s Jock Itch Outbreak …for being news. Aww nuts! USC football is dealing with a jock itch outbreak – and why do I feel like this story is just scratching the surface? Seriously though, this isn’t news. You know what would be news? The jock itch outbreak spreading to Notre Dame, and resulting in a spark to the Irish offense – now THAT would be a story. Until then, this story is best kept under wraps… or cups.
Kansas City Royals …for giving up back-to-back-to-back-to-back home runs to the Chicago White Sox. Yikes, it takes a unique skill to give up that many home runs in a row, and that’s exactly what the Kansas City pitching staff did. I wanted to talk to them about it after the game, but the players were going, going, gone.
Jacksonville Jaguars …for making the Dolphins look like a playoff contender. Yes, it’s preseason. Yes, the game doesn’t count. Yes, this is a Dolphins team with a lot of new faces. Still, the potential Super Bowl contending Jaguars team made Miami look great – including during the first half when a number of starters were in. For one day, Chad Pennington and the rest of the Dolphins had something to cheer about – for a change. Besides, how else could I incorporate this Dolphins cheerleader (see right)?!
Joe Gibbs Racing …for cheating. Per the story via Fox Sports: “The No. 18 and No. 20 Joe Gibbs racing teams in the Nationwide Series will likely face big penalties after efforts to alter the results of a chassis dyno test”. Sorry Joe, you can’t throw a challenge flag for this one.
Honorary Tomato Throwers of the Week Because those who found success earn a chance to sling one at their opposition
Michael Phelps – at the doubters and swimming competition. On a side note, props go out to Mark Spitz who was all class while Phelps swallowed up eight golds. Minnesota Twins (70-53) – at anyone that predicted the Indians or Tigers to cruise in the AL Central division.
Philadelphia 76ers – at the Eastern Conference after resigning Andre Iguodala to a six-year deal. If you ask me, Iguodala is an underrated talent in the NBA.
This has been “Throwing Tomatoes”… where there’s always an itch to throw the red fruit.
The 2008 Olympics in Beijing have begun. The PGA Championship was delayed, but played. And that’s not all – it was a big weekend for sports. With that being said, there should be enough sports stories that warrant a tomato attack.
Where do you direct your tomatoes this week?
Throwing Tomatoes – Volume XIV
The French 4x100m Relay Swimming Team …for not backing their own trash talk. If you didn’t hear about it, here was the quote: “The Americans? We’re going to smash them. That’s what we came here for.” What a race it was – with Michael Phelps, Jason Lezak, and the team proving that the American swimmers simply won’t put up with that “crepe”. While the USA wears gold with their red, white, and blue – the French are simply wearing red.
USA National Anthem Playback in Beijing …for being incomplete and choppy. Did anyone else catch the first medal ceremony the other night for Michael Phelps? The National Anthem recording was choppy at first, and cut short at the end. I guess all their money was spent on the opening ceremony. China may need to get that fixed, considering that the Americans will be earning a bunch more gold medals before the end of the Olympics.
Argentina Basketball …for their opening game performance against Lithuania. Argentina and team leader Manu Ginobili, the 2004 gold medalists, were shocked by Lithuania in their opener in Beijing.
The Tragic Death of Todd Bachman in Beijing …for crushing a family, breaking the hearts of a team, and overall putting a damper on the 2008 Olympic games. My thoughts and prayers go out to the USA Volleyball team, former Olympian Elisabeth Bachman, U.S. men’s volleyball coach Mark McCutcheon, and family.
NBA Stars Talking Departure …for Europe.
The reports are out there. Both LeBron James and Kobe Bryant have
reportedly made statements that they would consider signing with a
European team. For $50 million a season, would you drop the NBA for
Europe?
Phil Mickelson, Ernie Els, Sergio Garcia, and Vijay Singh …for once again not taking advantage of a “Tiger-less” major. Another PGA major without Tiger Woods, and once again Padraig Harrington is the only one who takes advantage of his absence. Mickelson managed a top 10. Sergio was there ‘til the end. The rest of the big names were nowhere to be found. Perhaps they were in the Hooters tent with John Daly.
Manny Ramirez …for his most recent comments directed at Red Sox Nation. Have you heard the latest on Manny? He wants to sign with the Yankees during the offseason, just so that he can wreak havoc on the Red Sox. How do you think the Dodgers feel about that one? Wait, what was that sound? I think it may have been Hank Steinbrenner reaching for his checkbook.
Baseball’s Contenders …for how they’re performing on the road. Specifically, this batch of tomatoes is directed at the likes of the Cubs, Red Sox, Yankees, Rays, Twins, White Sox, Mets, Diamondbacks, and Dodgers, who are all under .500 on the road. With the playoffs creeping closer and closer, the home field advantage in the MLB playoffs is going to be bigger than ever this year. Only the Phillies and Angels have a better record on the road than at home this season.
Barry Bonds …for announcing live at a recent Giants game that he’s not retired. Barry… we knew that. Really, we did.
Honorary Tomato Throwers of the Week Because those who found success earn a chance to sling one at their opposition
Padraig Harrington – at the PGA field after firing back-to-back 66’s at Oakland Hills to win a second straight major.
Kyle Busch – at the field after winning over the weekend at Watkins Glen. That makes it eight victories for Busch this season.
The USA Basketball “Redeem Team” – at Yao Ming and China after an opening round 101-70 victory.
Jason Lezak – at French swimmers after an incredible finishing leg of the 4x100m men’s freestyle relay.
This has been “Throwing Tomatoes”… where a few bushels are being shipped to Beijing – because the Olympics are just getting started.
The love affair is over. The “Manny Show” is road trippin’ to the west coast. In a blockbuster deal at the end of baseball’s trade deadline, Manny Ramirez has been shipped to Los Angeles, while Jason Bay goes to Boston, and four players end up with the Pirates.
Manny Ramirez has finally been traded, and to be honest, this is the best deal Boston could have done. The best. If you don’t think so, then give me a better, but still realistic scenario. Seriously, think about it for a second. Manny Ramirez - he’s a talent. We all know it. When he hits… he crushes the ball. He hits for average and has power. He hits in the clutch. He hits during the postseason. He’s well on his way to being a member in baseball’s Hall of Fame.
Yes, all of that is nice. Still, what’s painfully more glaring is the fact that Ramirez has the tendency to make himself a clubhouse cancer. He doesn’t run out ground balls. He shows up his opponents by staring down home runs. He plays when he wants to – often sighting injuries. He fumbles and stumbles his way after fly balls. Worst of all, he complains – about his contract, about his teammates, about his team’s front office.
And that my friends, is why “Manny being Manny” wore out in Boston years ago. Yes, years ago. Sure, with every home run, the annoyances and frustrations subsided. Yet, with every additional complaint, it all resurrected – and believe me, those complaints were there more often than not.
So this is it Boston, Manny is gone - headed to Tinseltown to play for Joe Torre and the Dodgers. How do you feel? Do you have a hangover worse than Paris Hilton on a Sunday morning? Or maybe you feel nothing but relief? Being out and about during tonight’s announcement, this writer felt the buzz and heard some of the comments – most notably the pre-trade line where an associate said “I hope he’s traded for a bag of dirty baseballs”.
But enough about Manny, let’s talk about the trade. What a victory for the Red Sox. You lose the team’s attitude, but replace him with Jason Bay, a guy who puts up similar numbers in a full season. Don’t believe me? Let’s dive deeper:
Manny Ramirez – 36 yrs old – 2008 Salary: 20 million 2006 – 130 G – 35 HR, 102 RBI, .321 avg. 2007 – 133 G – 20 HR, 88 RBI, .296 avg. 2008 – 100 G – 20 HR, 68 RBI, .299 avg.
Jason Bay – 29 yrs. old – 2008 Salary: 6 million 2006 – 159 G – 35 HR, 109 RBI, .286 avg. 2007 – 145 G – 21 HR, 84 RBI, .247 avg. 2008 – 106 G – 22 HR, 64 RBI, .282 avg.
A few quick points (about the above numbers) should be made before moving on. Bay fought off an injury in 2007, and while his average was down, he still managed 21 home runs. Also, while overall Ramirez’s numbers are a little better, Bay’s salary is only six million, and he’s seven years younger. Most importantly, Bay has been putting up these numbers in Pittsburgh’s park, with a roster of Pirates protecting him. Imagine this talent with Boston’s lineup protection at Fenway Park half of the season? Bay could easily improve – and should for that matter. What does Boston give up? Craig Hansen, once a gem of a prospect in the organization, meant little in the eyes of Boston fans this season. He throws gas, yes - but he’s also wild. In 2008, Hansen has posted an ERA of 5.58, while striking out 25 and walking 23 over 30 2/3 innings. Brandon Moss, the other Red Sox casualty, was also nothing more than a utility player in Boston. In 78 AB’s, Moss managed 2 HR and 11 RBI, while batting .295 as a member of the Red Sox. All in all, this trade is a major victory for the Red Sox.
Heck, it’s a victory for all teams. The Dodgers are stuck in the middle of a tight NL West division race, where an experienced veteran bat was desperately needed. The Red Sox desperately needed to move Manny, especially after all of his most recent antics. Finally, there are the Pirates, who as always, needed to move a pricey talent (by their standards), in hopes to get younger and better.
It’s a good deal for all, especially in Boston, where Manny can be Manny somewhere else. No more disappearing acts into the Green Monster. No more dreads flapping in the breeze. No more walk-off homers that don’t include any walking away from the plate.
Yes, the media may be sad to see the “Manny train” headed west, but the Red Sox fans shouldn’t be. Toss those Manny thoughts into the Boston Harbor and welcome Jason Bay with open arms. Give Bay a few weeks, and he’ll likely flood Boston with reasons for Red Sox Nation to love him.
At first, it was just another day. What began as a simple comedic approach turned into a fountain of generosity. Let me explain by going back in time a few days…
Blog Day
As many baseball fans out there are aware, the Red Sox-Yankees rivalry is one of the biggest in all of sports. Also, like many, I had never had the opportunity to see this rivalry unfold live. It became clear that in order to channel that frustration, I needed to poke fun at the situation – in blog-form.
Yes, I just wanted to sit in one of those historical seats, not just bathing in the lights of Fenway Park, but also the passion that seeps out of each and every fan that was donning ‘B’s’ and ‘NY’s’ on that particular day.
Then, a funny little thing happened on KP’s Blog. A message from a stranger arrived – a very kind stranger. She was offering tickets to the Yankees and Red Sox, a game that would be nationally televised on ESPN.
Wait a second, this can’t be right. This can’t be true. These tickets have to be fake. This has to be a spammer… or perhaps a practical joker.
Nope.
She wrote back a second time, likely sensing the disbelief that emanated from my first response.
Her name was Bri Porter… and she really was offering tickets to that game. No strings attached – just tickets to the game. She couldn’t make it, and simply wanted someone to fill the seats… someone that would really enjoy them.
Yep, I filled that description – just as much as she filled the description o####ood person.
The following day, the rhythmic sound of my doorbell danced in my ears, and minutes later, my dream had arrived – carefully wrapped in a white cardboard FedEx envelope.
Game Day
As game time approached, the skies above Boston were growing angry – real angry – like Lindsay Lohan after receiving her car insurance bill. The sky later opened. Every rain drop pelted down, exploding on the pavement – much like this writer’s hopes of catching the Sox and Yanks that night.
However, upon arrival at Fenway Park, the rain had stopped. The game was on – only slightly delayed.
The electricity was present at Fenway Park that night, as I expected it to be. The crowd was definitely more energized to face the Yankees – and it didn’t hurt to have ESPN there filming the game’s every pitch.
From the early going, this game would be all Boston, as David Ortiz put the first Boston player into scoring position with a base hit (see below).
The Red Sox wouldn’t stop there, tacking on seven runs in the first four innings, en route to a 9-2 victory over the rival Yankees. And once again, I was finally present to see these two teams battle each other – all thanks to a person I’ve never met before. I thank Bri again for her generosity, and with that… there was still one last thing that I needed to do.
Pay it Forward
If you’ve recently thought that there just aren’t enough good people in the world anymore, think again. Day in and day out, a person comes along willing to offer something up without thinking twice. It can be something as heroic as donating a kidney, to something as simple as offering tickets to a game. While the two aforementioned examples are drastically different, both are powerful in their own way… and here’s why.
You see, these tickets put a smile on my face. They made my day. They helped me get through what was a real tough week. Because of that, I needed to do something in return.
That’s when I decided to “pay it forward”. Many of you have heard the concept, where instead of paying a person back, you instead give a gift to a third party.
For me, that was the obvious answer – to take this generous gift and “pay it forward” – and how to do so, well… that answer was right in front of me during the entire game. It was a no-brainer for me to let the kindness travel, and that’s why I have made a donation to the Jimmy Fund, which raises money for children and adults with cancer (via the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston), and has been closely working with the Boston Red Sox organization for as long as I can remember – for 50 years in fact.
Once in a while, life will surprise you so much – so much that you get knocked over backwards. When knocked backwards, pay it forward. That’s what I did.
Leading up to the start of The Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, the world of golf questioned how much excitement would be generated in a “Tiger-less” environment. The PGA would quickly brush that talk away, listing plenty of names who could help carry the torch until Tiger’s triumphant return. After watching big names such as Phil Mickelson (1st round 79) and Ernie Els (1st round 80) stumble out of the gates, we waited for someone else to help carry the load.
The PGA got just that, but the man who emerged was not one that anyone was expecting.
While we waited for a lefty with a smooth swing, a tall righty nicknamed “The Big Easy”, or a Spaniard sporting vibrant colors and a kid-in-a-candy store type mindset, a shark was lurking in the tall grass at Royal Birkdale. Not just any shark, but “The Shark”.
Greg Norman, at the ripe old age of 53, was back in contention at a major championship.
Norman wouldn’t stop there, pushing his way to the top of the leaderboard after 54 holes.
That is when everything began to become all too familiar.
With every missed fairway, the flashbacks began to become more clear. With every missed green, the images of 1986 – and final day leads on all four majors – only to win one… emerged. With every putt that lipped out on Sunday, we became entrenched in the memories of the horrific collapse of Norman’s 1996 Masters – where he lost a six-shot lead on the final day. The record kept skipping, allowing for each Norman collapse to come into the clear – seven in all.
We could feel the eighth one coming. The three consecutive bogeys to open the final round of The Open Championship made the future easier to see.
Yet, making the turn to the back nine, Norman managed to hold a one-shot lead. While Norman continued to struggle, the blustery weather conditions wouldn’t allow for anyone else to pull away.
As a result, we held hope. We pushed for history to unfold before our eyes. A 53 year-old - who hadn’t finished in the top 10 of a major this millennium – was right there.
The Claret Jug was his for the taking.
Only… he didn’t take it. Instead, it was Padraig Harrington who seized the day – and the Claret Jug, after an electrifying finish that vaulted him to a four-shot victory over Ian Poulter.
Left in the dust once again on a major championship Sunday was Greg Norman.
For a weekend, we witnessed Greg Norman’s return to glory, only to watch him falter yet again. Only this time, the majority didn’t feel for him quite like that Sunday over a decade ago.
Maybe it was because at age 53, he wasn’t supposed to be here. Maybe we could see it on his face – that he was at peace with his performance and pleased with a tie for third place once the tournament was over. Maybe knowing that he had new wife Chris Evert to comfort him made things OK.
Just like that… our own honeymoon with “The Shark” was likely over. This time for good. Our memories of him will likely only come back once we visit a Reebok store - to see his colorful logo hung across store walls - or maybe at a liquor store as we stumble upon the Greg Norman wine label. Sure, Norman has earned an invite to Augusta (for finishing in the top four at Royal Birkdale) – but do we honestly think he will make the cut?
Maybe any or all of the above is true – or maybe it’s something else.
Perhaps we feel cheated. History was there for the taking - a story brighter than anything Tiger could have presented us with was right there… only to be blown away in the wind that howled through Merseyside, England as the championship came to a close.
This was supposed to be Greg’s day… again - but it wasn’t. Instead, it was Paddy’s day – times two – and I’m left feeling nothing but a little bit of déjà vu.
This week’s batch hones in on gangs and catfights, while also taking the time to toss a few at familiar targets… but enough chatter, let’s just get to the tomatoes.
Throwing Tomatoes – Volume XI
Gang Signs …for potentially spreading throughout sports, this time to the NFL. This one goes out to the whole situation. First off, at the NFL. How would anyone in the NFL front office even know this is the case? Are they going strictly off the Paul Pierce situation in Boston? If so, that’s ludicrous.
Secondly, could any of you point out any of these signs? We aren’t talking something like “The Van Buren Boys” from Seinfeld here are we?! All in all, it’s a shame that sports have come to this.
I hope for their sake “tomato red” is a neutral gang color. Danica Patrick …for getting involved in another altercation. Patrick confronted female driver Milika Duno, and later got into a verbal spat, in which Patrick accused Duno of getting in her way too many times. Looks like the post-first-victory struggles are starting to get to Patrick a little bit.
Come to think of it, does a “catfight” really deserve a tomato?!
Michelle Wie …for being disqualified at the LPGA’s State Farm Classic. Wie was disqualified for not signing her scorecard before leaving the scoring area following the second round. What’s worse is that she was finally in contention (in second place to be exact). Instead, the result is yet another miscue by Wie, who continues to be a huge disappointment. Terry Francona …for not taking care of all AL teams during the All-Star game. While treading softly with Scott Kazmir and the Rays, Francona ended up overusing Orioles closer George Sherrill, which reportedly got under the skin of the Baltimore front office. As a result, should we expect another AL East brawl? Maybe Coco Crisp should just teach his teammates how to dodge a tomato.
Dan Uggla …for forgetting how to play defense during the All-Star game. Uggla had back-to-back errors in the 10th inning of the All-Star game, plus three total in the game. He also ground into a double play and struck out. It could have been worse, especially if Colorado’s Aaron Cook didn’t bail him out by escaping a bases loaded, nobody out jam in the 10th.
Manny Ramirez …for causing yet another story and altercation. Yep, Manny’s in the news again, and once again it’s about his contract. He wants to know if Boston is picking up his option, and was quoted as saying, “I want no more [times] where they tell you one thing and behind your back they do another thing. All in all, it’s another case of “Manny being ####”… scratch that, “Manny being Manny”.
Phil Mickelson and Ernie Els …for not carrying the torch during Tiger’s absence. Apparently, there’s more pressure to perform when everyone is looking to you to perform while Tiger’s at home rehabbing. Even though it could have been much worse for Phil and Ernie at the British Open (Els tied for 7th and Mickelson tied for 19th), neither were really in it after nightmarish opening rounds. The Orioles on Sunday … and the fact that they just can’t win… AGAIN. Yet another tomato until the O’s can win on Sunday. Make that 15 consecutive losses on Sunday for the Birds… and that stat really IS “for the birds”.
Honorary Tomato Throwers of the Week Because those who found success earn a chance to sling one at their opposition Washington Redskins – at the NFC East after acquiring Jason Taylor from Miami on Sunday. Greg Norman – at anyone who says a man in his 50’s can’t compete at a major championship. Chris Wood – at anyone who says an amateur can’t compete at a major championship. Tampa Bay Rays – at anyone who thought they would go away quietly. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim – at the AL West after taking a commanding nine game lead.
This has been “Throwing Tomatoes”… and be sure to avoid the ones with any strange signs or signals on the labels.
Light up those citronella tiki torches and crack open a Leinie’s Red Minnesota, because Brett Favre is talking with the Purple People Eaters. Legal or not, the signs have been there for days.
Read ‘em and weep.
Top 10 Reasons to Believe the Vikings Tampered with Green Bay **
10 – Brett has been spotted at local libraries reading up on Scandinavian American culture.
9 – The University of Minnesota is now teaching the proper pronunciation of “Favre” in their English 101 course.
8– Tarvaris Jackson reportedly sent Favre a text message saying “BTFO”.
7 -- The top selling appetizer of “Cheez Whiz on a Triscuit:” was replaced by “Herring on a stick” on Brett Favre’s Steakhouse menu.
6 – Favre contacted Bjork about starring alongside him in a sequel of Nanook of the North, but only if she brings the swan dress from the 2004 Academy Awards.
5 – Suddenly Deanna Favre is lactose intolerant and not interested in cheese.
4 – Brett Favre was seen buying a purplish color pair of Wrangler jeans.
3 – Brett’s kids were spotted planting a Norway pine in the backyard.
2 – Brett’s southern accent has been replaced by a plethora of “yah’s” and “don-chya-no’s”.
1 – Faint sounds of a deep horn have been heard at Favre’s estate in Hattiesburg, MS.
** Please Note: None of these rumors are true. Instead, this post was meant strictly to poke fun at the latest of a line of rumors involving Brett Favre coming out of retirement. Good day - yah!
This week’s tomatoes get delivered in four packs, in honor of #4 himself, Brett Favre. While the Favre saga is ongoing (and quite tomato-worthy), it certainly isn’t alone.
Where do you direct your tomatoes this week?
Throwing Tomatoes – Volume X
The “Brett Favre Saga” …for getting more confusing by the day. This whole thing is getting a little out of hand. First, we hear about the text to Ted Thompson. Then the request for reinstatement. Next, Green Bay declines Favre’s release request. We hear rumors of Favre being a backup, plus the chatter about a Packer fan rally. Heck, another six-pack of stories likely popped up in the time it took for me to write this sentence. Green Bay Packers …for thinking they can brush off a legend. Listen, I know everyone has a take on this one. We could all vote and it would likely be split right down the middle. Still, I have to say this… while I think Brett Favre could have handled the situation better, I still feel the Packers need to let him come back and be their QB. I understand what Green Bay is doing, but Favre single handedly helped revive this historical franchise, which was stuck in the dumps for years. This is how you repay him when he changes his mind and wants to come back for more?
The Packer Fans Rally … for not sounding the least bit impressive. The headlines all over the sports pages discuss a rally of Packer fans backing Favre and chanting for him to return to Green Bay. Yet, you read the story and it discusses a “crowd of over 100”. Really? That’s it? Does that mean the rest of you want Aaron Rodgers? REALLY?
Tampa Bay Rays …for hitting a major bump in the road right when everyone was jumping on the wagon. There are still a lot of games left. With that being said, it isn’t often that you see championship teams struggle for such a prolonged period of time. The losing streak is at seven games. This week’s All-Star game will be a much needed break for the Rays.
People Drinking the Angels Haterade …instead of recognizing how good this team is.
Is it me, or is no one talking about the Los Angeles Angels of
Anaheim? Maybe because the team name confuses them? Either way, the
Angels are tied with the Cubs for the best record in baseball heading
into the All-Star break. And get this, they open the second half at
home against the Red Sox. Time to ask T.O. for some popcorn.
Travis Henry …for testing positive for marijuana. Yep, you got it… it’s just another story about a talented athlete flushing his career right down the toilet after getting into trouble one time too many.
Martin Truex …for failing inspection at Daytona. As a result of the illegal car, Truex and his DEI team were penalized 150 points by NASCAR. That one will leave a mark… and so will this tomato.
are paid big bucks to tune those fans out. Even with the anger management issues that Guillen tends to let come out, he needs to be the better person and avoid it. Then again, playing for the Royals may be getting to him too.
closer, the home field advantage in the MLB playoffs is going to be bigger than ever this year. Only the Phillies and Angels have a better record on the road than at home this season. 
– Tarvaris Jackson reportedly sent Favre a text message saying “BTFO”.
will be a much needed break for the Rays.
one will leave a mark… and so will this tomato.