It's the weekend finally and there seems to be some good matchups this weekend. Here's the info on the big series of the weekend:
Yankees(12-10) @ Indians(10-12) Let's just say that these two teams don't like each other. Cleveland was the big dog in the AL in the mid 1990's until the Yankees stepped up and took the mantle from them. Everyone loves being the Yankees and the Indians are no exception. Coming off a strong series against the Royals, look for the Indians to keep the pressure on. The Yankees will hopefully have A-Rod back in the lineup and the Yankees miss Carmona and Cliff Lee, the most consistant healthy pitchers for the Indians. Pick: Yankees take 2 of 3
Angels(14-9) @ Tigers(10-13) Detroit just got done sweeping the powerless Rangers at home and they have found their offensive stride. Having Curtis Granderson back in the lineup will make the Tigers the team to beat in the AL Central again and Miguel Cabrera, Magglio Ordonez and Co. are now hitting a ton. The Angels won the last game in Boston, but they seem to be missing something....their starting pitching. Pick: Tigers sweep
Diamondbacks(16-6) @ Padres(9-14) This is a pitching dream series, for the most part. Friday, you have Randy Johnson(0-1) v. Randy Wolf(2-0). Saturday, it's Micah Owings(4-0) taking the mound v. Justin Germano(0-2). On Sunday, you have Brandon Webb(5-0) v. Jake Peavy(3-0)-why this game isn't the Sunday Night Baseball game on ESPN is beyond me. I'd much rather watch this game than do what I'm going to do(listen to it). I think the Big Unit will get his stuff together and throw a great game on Friday, the question is will Wolf match him pitch-for-pitch? Pick: Diamondbacks take 2 of 3
These are the three series that I'm looking forward must to. It should be a great weekend!
It's glad to be back in the blogosphere, here's something for ya'll to chew on
Well, the baseball season is only three weeks old but we do have a few surprises. Here's the list of surprises, both negative and positive:
The Detrot Tigers are playing like an A-Ball team. I know that they got some wins over the weekend against Cleveland, but this team needs to put together some big weeks to get back into the race. They will be getting Curtis Granderson back soon, but they still have glaring holes in the bullpen with the absence of Fernando Rodney and Closer-In-Training Joel Zumaya. I think they'll turn it around before Memorial day, which is the first true measuring stick for the season.
Also in the AL Central, the Kansas City Royals have been a pleasant surprise this season so far. The team is at 9-10 right now after being swept by the A's(more on them later), but I like their starting rotation with Zack Grienke, Brian Bannister, and Gil Meche. I know the Mets could use Bannister now. The questions that I have all have to do with their lineup. This team will only go as far as Alex Gordon and Billy Butler will take it, which I think will be an improved team, but still about a year or 2 away from the playoffs.
The Oakland A's are leading the AL West and I can honestly say that I didn't see this one coming. I was expecting Joe Blanton and/or Rich Harden to be traded as the team rebuilded again. Once Harden and Eric Chavez get back from the DL, look for the A's to continue their run at least until Memorial Day. By then, John Lackey for the Angels and Erik Bedard for the Mariners will be healthy.
Who would have thought that the Florida Marlins would be leading the NL East? A team of no-names that gets paid less than A-Rod and Manny are leading the division. This definitely won't last, I'm still going with the Mets over the Phillies and Braves to win the division.
Speaking of headline grabbers, how about the NL Central. The Cardinals, who many picked to finish in 5th place, were in 1st place until yesterday and now sit a 1/2 game behind the Cubs. I hear that the "What the Fuk?" shirts are popping at Wrigley, we'll see how the lovable losers fair when they play someone other than the Pirates. Miguel Tejada got 2 years older overnight, what a shock. Eric Gagne is pitching horribly for the Brewers and Rickie Weeks and Ryan Braun can't hit right now, but that should change soon. And look at the job that Dusty Baker is doing in Cincinnati. Sure, I'm not a Reds fan but it's always good to see the Reds play well. Ken Griffey will always have a place in the hearts of many people my age and Johnny Cueto? What a stud!
The NL West hasn't really been too crazy, except for the fact that the Baby 'Backs are doing what they couldn't do last season. They are crushing the ball behind Justin Upton and Mark Reynolds. With the staff that they possess, they have to be the favorites to win the division.
Remember though, it's only been 3 weeks so we'll see how it works out.
Here's a rough list of MLB Players that may be traded by the July 31st deadline.
Yankees: OF Bobby Abreu Red Sox: OF Wily Mo Pena, SP/RP Julian Tavarez Blue Jays: SP/RP Casey Janssen Orioles: DH/OF/1B Jay Gibbons, CL Chris Ray Devil Rays: OF Rocco Baldelli White Sox: OF Jermaine Dye, SP Mark Buehrle Indians: 3B Andy Marte Twins: OF Torii Hunter Royals: DH/1B Mike Sweeney, OF Reggie Sanders, C Jason LaRue or C John Buck Tigers: SP Mike Maroth, OF Marcus Thames Angels: C Jose Molina A's: OF Milton Bradley, OF Jack Cust Mariners: SP Jeff Weaver Rangers: 1B Mark Teixeira, OF Kenny Lofton Braves: C Jarrod Smorticcia Marlins: 3B Miguel Cabrera, SP Dontrell Willis Mets: OF Lastings Milledge Nationals: OF Austin Kearns, SP John Patterson, CL Chad Cordero, 1B Nick Johnson, SS Christian Guzman Phillies: OF Pat Burrell, SP Jon Leiber Cubs: OF Cliff Floyd, OF Jacque Jones, SS Cesar Izturis, C Michael Barrett, SP Carlos Zambrano, CL Ryan Dempster Reds: CL David Weathers, SP Eric Milton, 3B Edwin Encarnacion Astros: 3B Morgan Ensburg, OF Jason Lane, SP Jason Jennings, RP Brad Lidge Brewers: OF Geoff Jenkins Pirates: SP Zack Duke, OF Xavier Nady Cardinals: CL Jason Isringhausen, SP Anthony Reyes, SS David Eckstein Rockies: 1B Todd Helton, SP Aaron Cook, SP/RP Taylor Buckholz Diamondbacks: OF Justin Upton, 3B Chad Tracy Dodgers: OF Matt Kemp, SP Mark Hendrickson Padres: RP Cla Meredith Giants: OF Randy Winn, RP Kevin Cojjeria
We've had everyone under the sun complain about starting the season in early April in cold weather cities(Hey, that's where the sport started!) and we've had tons of games postponed due to the weather and we even had a series moved from Cleveland to Milwaukee and that series drew more fans in BrewCrew country than a Marlins 6, 9, or maybe 12 game homestand in Miami.(around 56 K for the Angels-Indians series) But here's the big things I've gotten out of the first 2 weeks of the season.
First, how are the Atlanta Braves doing it? They’re off to an amazing start without one of their starters in Mike Hampton, who is out for the year, and then they find out at the beginning of the season that Andruw Jones wants to stay in Atlanta. I can tell you how they’re doing it…pitching, pitching, and more pitching. Their biggest problem last season was their bullpen and now that is fixed with Rafael Soriano and Mike Gonzalez setting up Bob Wickman and their starters are pitching pretty good. Sure, it’s early in the NL East but I think it’ll be a 3 team race to the end between the Braves, Mets, and Phillies(a 1-6 start is almost a kiss of death…ALMOST) and at the end of the year, the Braves might be the team to beat.
Next, the NL Central and NL West won’t be decided any time soon. Sure the Dodgers are attempting to run away from the rest of the division, but it’s not happening. In the Central, the Cardinals are winning without Chris Carpenter while the rest of the division is not taking advantage of this.
At the beginning of the season, who would have thought that Jose Valverde, Saloman Torres, Al Reyes, Armando Benitez, Dan Wheeler, Eric Gagne, and 50 Florida Marlins relievers would have more saves than Mariano Rivera? The Yankees are 5-6 and they are either losing or blowing teams out(the exception was A-Rod’s game-winning Grand Slam against the Orioles April 8). The rotation has more holes in it than a piece of Swiss cheese and they can’t get Roger Clemens to the Bronx soon enough. I think, in the long run, the Yankees will fall short to either the Blue Jays or the Red Sox(or both).
Does the AL Central have a bad team? I know that the Royals are struggling right now(they need more pitching…when’s Luke Hockevar or Brian Bannister coming up?), but they will have a good team later in the season behind Alex Gordon and David DeJesus. Can I be the first to say that this is the best division in baseball….As of 4/15, the only team with a losing record was the Royals and the Indians are leading the division with a 6-3 record, a ½ game in front of both Minnesota and Detroit, with the ChiSox in 4th Place 2 games back with a 5-6 record. Just think if this division wasn’t located in cold weather locations….
The AL West has the 2007 AL Cy Young award winner in it. Take 3 guesses who that is…Rich Harden…NO….John Lackey….NO….Dan Haren….NO…..Felix Hernandez! King Felix outdueled DiceK in his Fenway debut with a one hitter. Hernandez hasn’t given up a run in his first 2 starts(an 8 inning win and then the one hitter on Wednesday). When I watched this kid’s major league debut, I thought he was going to be special. This season, he’s 2-0 with a 0.00 ERA and a 18/4 K/BB ratio. That’s what we like to call a great start to the season.
According to numerous reports, Tony LaRussa was arrested last night on su####ion of driving under the influence of alcohol. Here's what happened. Tony fell asleep at an intersection and did not respond when the cops knocked on his window. Here's the thing....with a blood-alcohol level of .093, which is above the legal limit of .08 in Florida, how the hell would you fall asleep. I've been at or above that level a time or two and at no time did I feel sleepy.......
Tony, you disappointed your fans, family, and your team.....good job Mr. LaRussa
For the first time since 1991, the Atlanta Braves did not win the NL East last season. In the offseason, the Braves got healthy with the return of Mike Hampton to the rotation and improved their horrible bullpen with the additions of Mike Gonzalez(from Pittsburgh for Adam LaRoche) and Rafael Soriano(from Seattle for Horacio Ramirez).
Catcher Brian McCann is a great young catcher that can hit the tar out of the ball. Defensively, he is good at calling games. His biggest problem has been staying healthy. If he does that, he could be an All-Star this season. Grade: B+
First Base Well, this was a source of strength for the Braves before they traded Adam LaRoche to Pittsbugh but now it's going to Scott Thorman, who played a little last season. He seems to be able to handle the bat, which is really his strong suit. Platooning with him will be Craig Wilson from the right side. Wilson has good power, but strikes out way too much to be that effective. Grade: C
Second Base Once again the Braves got rid o####ood player at an infield position. Marcus Giles was a stable player up the middle when he was healthy. He's now with the Padres and Kelly Johnson and Willy Aybar will get a shot here. Johnson got some playing time in left field in 2005 and that should help him win the starting spot. Grade: B-
Shortstop Edgar Renteria is back for his second season with the Braves after a .291, 14 HR, 70 RBI season. He's got a good glove, but he's prone to throwing wildly to first. Shouldn't really be a problem though. Grade: B
Third Base Larry is back at third again and I think his days of attempting to play the outfield are over. Jones had a normal year by his standards, hitting .324 with 26 HR and 86 RBI. His RBI total was smaller because of the people hitting in front of him not getting on base. That should improve this season. Grade: B
Outfield A group led by Andruw Jones should dominate, but the question is how will Jeff Francour rebound from a subpar season. I think Ryan Langerhans is an all-star waiting to happen. Of course, all of the talk around Atlanta is about the pending free agency of Jones who is likely to go elsewhere. If the Braves are out of contention near the trade deadline, I would not be surprised if Andruw is traded to a contender for prospects. If anything, he would be one hell of a 3 month rental. Grade: B+
Starting Rotation I'm anxious to see how Mike Hampton returns to the rotation. I think he still has great stuff, but he'll have to become more of a finesse pitcher than a power pitcher(picture the second coming of Tom Glavine). John Smoltz is still solid as a rock, but Tim Hudson struggled getting the ball down in the zone last season. Chuck James was a surprise this past season and I have a feeling it will continue this season. The #5 spot is currently being held by Kyle Davies, but he will be challanged by Lance Cormier. Whoever isn't the #5 will be valuable in the reconstructed bullpen. Grade: B-
Bullpen This bullpen might be the best in the division. Bob Wickman, who came over at mid-season from Cleveland, went 33 of 37 on saves for the season. He will be set up by Mike Gonzalez, a hard-throwing lefty with a vicious slider, and Rafael Soriano, who is a Gonzalez clone except from the right side. Grade: B+
Overview The Braves are competing in a division that has improved drastically and they are right in the thick of the pack between everyone but the Nationals. Down the stretch though, they'll need to get another starter to complement Smoltz and Hampton. If they do that, they can win the division. If they don't, they're out of it, plain and simple. Grade: B
The Rangers locked up Michael Young yesterday with a 5 year-$80 million extension. I would look for this team to hang around until the end, but their bullpen and outfield will be their undueing.
Catcher Gerald Laird has been the backup in Arlington for a couple of years and its his turn behind the plate. If he struggles, Miguel Ojeda will be waiting to take over. Grade: C
First Base One of the best all-around first basemen in baseball is Mark Teixeira. Last season, he lost some power from the right side, but I think he'll fix that. Grade: A-
Second Base I like the platoon of Ian Kinsler and Jerry Hairston. Both are good defensively and Hairston has played the outfield as well. Grade: B-
Shortstop All I'm going to say about Michael Young is that he can hit......everywhere. I love the fact they gave him an extension to wrap him up for another 5 years. Grade: A-
Third Base Hank Blalock is a great player who has began to struggle with the power numbers, but he still has the great glove and great hitting for numbers. Grade: B+
Outfield Here is the biggest weakness on this team. I love Brad Wilkerson, but he can't stay healthy. Kenny Lofton...isn't he as old as Julio Franco now? Who the hell is Nelson Cruz? Ya know that you have a weakness when you give Sammy Sosa a call for a chance to make the team. The one saving grace would be having Frank Catalonatto who can play the corner outfield positions unless they want to keep him as the DH. Grade: C-
Designated Hitter Catalonatto has a great bat, but I don't think he'll be their DH for too long. Look for Victor Diaz to be the DH is an outfielder is hurt. Grade: B-
Starting Rotation I like what they attempted to do in the offseason, bringing in Brandon McCarthy from the White Sox and resigning Vicente Padilla. The rotation is pretty weak after McCarthy with Robinson Tejeda and Edinson Valquez battling for the #4 and 5 spots with John Koronka and John Rheinecker. Kevin Millwood is an innings eater at the #1 spot. Grade: B-
Bullpen OK.......If you have a decent closer, why would you sign someone who has had 3 surgeries on his elbow to be your closer? That is what the Rangers did with Eric Gagne. I don't think he'll ever be what he once was and it will show when he gets hurt yet again. At leas they still have Otsuka, for now. Grade: C+
Overview This is a good offensive team, but once again the pitching will cause them to struggle. Grade: C+
The Seattle Mariners will be facing a PR nightmare next offseason because Ichiro is a free agent and he may want to go to greener pastures.....i.e. The Dodgers(a great fit for a Japanese superstar). If they don't resign him, the owner(who is the CEO of Nintendo) will need to do something more to keep fans in the seats of Safeco.
Catcher Kenji Johjima is a Japanese import that had a good season last year, batting .291 with 18 HR and 76 RBI. If he goes down, they will be hurting. Grade: B
First Base This was supposed to be a great homecoming for Richie Sexson. The lumberjack from Portland was supposed to be a .300, 40, 120 guy for the Mariners. So far he has lived up to the HR and RBI totals, but his average has been in the .260s the past 2 seasons. The M's will need him to be a little more patient at the plate for them to compete. Grade: B
Second Base The defense for the Mariners is so important that Jose Lopez is in there. However, Lopez had a good offensive season batting .282 with 10 HR and 82 RBI. If he is injured, Jose Vidro, acquired from the Nationals, can fill in. Grade: B-
Shortstop Yuniesley Betancourt(hopefully I spelled it right) and Willie Bloomquist make a good platoon here if need be. Betancourt will be the starter. Grade: C+
Third Base Adrian Beltre was another one of those big free agent signings in the 2004 offseason that hasn't paid off. Beltre batted .268 with 25 HR and 89 RBI but he needs to hit better for average for this team to win. Grade: B-
Outfield Ichiro is a gold glover who is moving from Right to Center this season. I know he'll be fine and bat .330 with 100+ runs scored, but the rest of the outfield is a question mark. Raul Ibanez had a great season last year with 33 HR and 123 RBI, while Jose Guillen is coming off of an injury and is a problem child. If anyone struggles, Jeremy Reed is waiting in the wings to replace them. Grade: B-
Designated Hitter Jose Vidro was brought in for his bat and he will bring a .280, 10, and 80 season with him to Seattle. I liked the move earlier in the offseason, but I would rather have seen them make a move to bring in someone like Mike Piazza or Ryan Klesko to be a power bat as their DH. They did the best they could do, I guess. Grade: C+
Starting Rotation In an attempt to rebuild their rotation around "the King" Felix Rodriguez and Jarred Washburn, the Mariners signed Miguel Batista and Jeff Weaver to free agent deals and traded their best reliever, Rafael Soriano, to Atlanta for Horacio Ramirez, who is coming off of an shoulder injury. Batista has had some good years starting and Weaver is coming off of his best month as a professional last October, but I don't think these signings are enough to put their rotation over the top. The other three pitchers(Rodriguez, Washburn, and Ramirez) will be the leaders of the rotation and I like their stuff, but their downfall will be their FA signings. Grade: C+
Bullpen I'm not that impressed with J.J. Putz as the closer, but I do like the FA signings of Chris Reitsma and Arthur Rhodes. The main setup men will be Reitsma with Julio Mateo and Rhodes as the 7th inning guys. Grade: C+
Overview I think the Mariners are heading in the right direction, but they are still about a year or two away. Grade: C+
Two offseasons ago, the A's traded Tim Hudson and Mark Mulder in an attempt to build for the future. Last season, they reaped the benefits of those trades by winning the AL West and making it to the ALCS with players such as Danny Haren and Kiko Calero pitching their way to the offseason. This offseason, the A's lost Barry Zito to the Giants in free agency but they should continue to chuck along.
Catcher Jason Kendall is great catcher, but he still doesn't have the power output some would want from this position. He's still a leader on the field, which is what his biggest purpose is. Grade: B
First Base Now this is a position that needs some help. Dan Johnson was supposed to be the saving grace for the offense, but he only batted .234 with 9 HR and 37 RBI. This production has to come up. The new phenom that may get his shot is Daric Barton. Barton, another part in the Mark Mulder trade, is a hitting machine but a defensive liability. The former catcher is still trying to learn the position. If all else fails, like last season, the A's can move Nick Swisher to 1B and insert Bobby Kielty into the outfield. Grade: C+
Second Base I like Mark Ellis because he's gritty. He reminds me a little of David Eckstein and as long as he stays healthy, he's a steadying influence in the middle of the diamond. Grade: B-
Shortstop Talking about staying healty, if Bobby Crosby could we would know how good he truly can be. Crosby seems to get injured every season and he misses about 2 months. I got a hunch that he'll stay healthy this season. Grade: B
Third Base It seems like this position is the best it has been in years, depth wise, and Eric Chavez is one of those solid 3B that have all of the tools. The best part about him is that he is a left handed bat that can hit to all fields and he's great defensively. Grade: B+
Outfield What can I say about this outfield except they can all cover a lot of ground. The starters will be Nick Swisher, Mark Kotsay, and Milton Bradley with Bobby Kielty coming off the bench. As long as Bradley keeps his cool and Swisher stays in the outfield, this is a great corp of guys. Grade: B
Designated Hitter The big offseason acquisition for the A's was bringing in Mike Piazza to be their DH. I like this move because the man can still hit a ton. However, his defensive skills have dwindled so the move to DH should help him. Grade: B-
Starting Rotation As long as everyone stays healthy, this is a scary rotation. Rich Harden, Dan Haren, Joe Blanton, Estaban Loaiza, and either Brad Halsey or Joe Kennedy will make up the rotation. Harden is a bonafide ace and Haren and Blanton aren't too far behind him. Loaiza is the veteran presence on the staff and I think Halsey will win the #5 job and be the lefty at the end of the rotation. Grade: A-
Bullpen At the University of Texas, Huston Street was a lockdown closer. In Oakland.....He's a lockdown closer. Street leads the 'pen with Justin Duchscherer and Calero as his top setup men. Grade: B+
Overview It looks like another AL West title for the A's with that stellar rotation and great bullpen. I do think they will struggle at times getting runs though but it will work out in the end. Grade: B
The Angels had some tough luck with injuries last season and they have made some interesting moves in the offseason. Led by Vladimir Guerrero, the offense should be well enough to win their share of games. However, the pitching staff still has questions.
Catcher The Angels have depth at the position with 3 players that have had major league experience. My money for starting will be Mike Napoli, who started the bulk of the games last season. His backups will be Jeff Mathis and Jose Molina, the middle brother of the Molina brothers. Grade: C+
First Base Shea Hillenbrand should bring some stability to the position. The free agent signing from the Giants is a good fit because of his bat. Ex-phenom Casey Kotchman and Cuban defector Kendry Morales will be the primary backups here and at DH. Grade: C+
Second Base Rookie Howie Kendrick is a great fit and should contribute immediately. Grade: B-
Shortstop Orlando Cabrera was one of three SS who moved prior to the 2005 season, when he replaced David Eckstein. I like his defense and his bat, but they need to find a good place in the lineup for him. Grade: B
Third Base Talk about finding a position for someone, Chone Figgins should be in the outfield but because of the signing of Gary Matthews Jr., he still has to play 3B. Good speed, but bad OBP. They were forced to keep Figgins at third as well because of the injury to Dallas McPherson, who is out for the season. Grade: C+
Outfield Vlad the Impaler, Garrett Anderson, and Free agent signing Gary Matthews Jr make up one hell of an outfield. Vlad should be in the MVP mix and Anderson will have his regular 20 HR, 90 RBI season. Grade: A-
Designated Hitter Isn't Juan Rivera the guy who stole stuff from Derek Jeter's locker? Well, it's nice for him to find his way back onto a team. His defense is horrible, so DH is the only fit. Grade: C+
Starting Rotation As long as everyone is healthy, this is a great staff. The Angels resisted trading young guns Ervin Santana and Jared Weaver in the offseason and they will be in the rotation. The lone question mark is Bartolo Colon, who will not be pitching until May. Grade: B+
Bullpen K-Rod is still a dominating closer, but the Angels will have to find a setup man. They traded Brendan Donnelly in the offseason and replaced him with fireballer Justin Speier. However, they still have Scott Shields in the mix for that lead setup role. Grade: B
Overview This team will be better than last season, but I think they will still fall behind the A's in the west. However, they should be able to contend for the wild card with the Tigers, White Sox, Blue Jays, Yankees, and Indians. Grade: B-
I love doing some obscure posts, but I think this might get some play. I've been to a lot of places to watch sports, but some of the ones that I will have listed are from others opinions as well. Here's the list, enjoy
Top MLB Stadiums(AL) I have to admit that my favorite moment in an AL stadium happened in 2004 when I watched the Cardinals play the Royals at Kaufmann Stadium in K.C. Rankings 1. Fenway Park-Boston: I haven't been here yet, but I have heard from friends that it is the place to go. I'm hopefully going there this season. 2. Jacobs Field-Cleveland: Watching a game here was a great experience. It's always fun to go watch a game between 2 teams that are in the playoff hunt. Plus, I got to see Mike Mussina pitch for the Yankees against a good lineup for the Indians in August 2005(1 game) 3. Kaufmann Stadium-Kansas City: The example above was the best experience, but I also saw the Royals beat the Red Sox last August(2 games).
Top MLB Stadiums(NL) If anyone thinks that this list is biased, you are dead wrong. Rankings 1. Wrigley Field-Chicago: Now I've been there for a Cards-Cubs game on Labor Day 2003, that's right the time we lost 4 of 5 and the Cubs won the division, but I think I enjoyed watching a game that didn't involve the Cardinals up there. Watching the Astros play the Cubs was a great time and I just love Wrigleyville, maybe it's the Irish blood in me(2 games). 2. Busch Stadium-St. Louis(past): Sure I like the new stadium, but I grew up in the Old Busch Stadium and watched so many great games there. I would go there every opening day just to watch Ozzie Smith do his backflip. I watched guys like Ozzie, Willie, Pags, Big Mac, Tewks, Lee Arthur Smith, Eck, and many other greats play at the greatest cookie cutter. One of my cherished items in my sports memoribilia is a rock from the rubble of the old Busch Stadium.(over 100 games) 3. Veterans Stadium-Philadelphia: My friend Ryan saw a game there during its last season and he said that it was more enjoyable than going to Yankee Stadium so I'll have to put it up here.
Top College Football Stadiums Now I've been to a few of these and hopefully will be going to more in the future. Rankings 1. Kyle Field-Texas A&M: I was told how awesome the 12th Man was from a LONGHORNS fan so that's why it's ranked at #1. The comradery and the uniqueness of the Aggies are a specticle. 2. Neyland Stadium-Tennessee: When I watched the Power T form and the Vols run out onto the field, it brought tears to my eyes. I've been to some games, but this was my first Vols game. Driving in from Memphis that morning and seeing the home opener of the 2004 season was probably the greatest sports moment I've ever had.(1 game) 3. Beaver Stadium-Penn State: WE ARE....PENN STATE. Seeing the scenary around State College and hearing that chant sent chills down my spine. I love the fact that the Nittney Lions are in the Big 10 because that means if and when I buy Illinois season tickets, I can go there every other year
Top NFL Stadiums Being in St. Louis, I've seen the Greatest Show on Turf play and I've actually talked with some of the players of that team. However, I think watching football in a dome sucks. Rankings 1. Soldier Field-Chicago: Da Bears in the freezing cold of the Windy City is a sight, even for a non-Bears fan. 2. Giants Stadium-New York: The fans are rude, crude, and socially unacceptable and I love it! 3. Arrowhead Stadium-Kansas City: The Chiefs are like a religion to these people.
Top College Basketball Arenas Now my top three will be from arenas I've only been to, but I'll have a list of the ones I want to go to. Rankings(one's I've been to) 1. Rupp Arena-Kentucky: The only thing that would make Rupp even better is if it was on campus. The Blue and White was a great place to see a game at.(1 game) 2. Hearnes Center-Missouri: I sat and watched a Big Monday game between Mizzou and Syracuse in 2004 from a classroom in the corner of the Hearnes Center and I loved the feel of "The Barn". It's a shame they opened up the new Mizzou Arena b/c it's not the same(1 game) 3. SIU Arena-Southern Illinois: Its a miniature Assembly Hall that seats around 8,500. There isn't a bad seat in the house and the fans are great.(1 game) Rankings(one's I haven't been to) 1. Assembly Hall-Illinois: Maybe its because I'm an Illini at heart, but I just want to see one game there before I die 2. Cameron Indoor Stadium-Duke: How can you not want to see a game at Duke if you're a college basketball fan? I mean, it's Duke! 3. Pauley Pavilion-UCLA: The history of the Bruins, from John Wooden to BIll Walton to Lew Alcinder, is alive in that place.
The reigning AL Central champs are coming off of another early playoff exit, but they should be ready to make another push towards the playoffs this season. Losses have hit their starting rotation the hardest. Here's the position preview.
Catcher The Twins picked Joe Mauer over Mark Prior in the 2003 draft because of his signability, or Prior's lack of signability. I think the Twins definately got the best of that deal. Mauer, the 2006 AL Batting Champ, is a superstar in the league and probably the best catcher in the AL. Grade: A
First Base Justin Morneau is the reigning AL MVP and will have another monster season. Grade: A
Second Base I'm not sold on Luis Castillo. I think he's a decent fit for this team because of what he can bring to the lineup, but he needs to get some more steals. His defense is ok and should help out whoever is playing shortstop. Grade: C+
Shortstop Jason Bartlett needs to have a good season to keep his job here. If he struggles, look for Alexi Castilla to come up from AAA to take the job. Grade: C
Third Base Nick Punto? He had a good season last year but can he do it again? If he can't, the Twins signed Jeff Cirillo in the offseason as a backup plan. Grade: B-
Outfield Spiderman is still out there and Michael Cuddyer had a career year last season, but Rondell White is like the new Julio Franco, playing until he's in his 50's. Hopefully Torii Hunter stays healthy, if he doesn't they could struggle. Grade: B-
Designated Hitter Jason Kubel seems to be someone like Willie McGee(I know that Cardinal Nation will hate me for this). He can hit anything anywhere(at least when I watch him play.) Grade: B
Starting Rotation With the losses of Francisco Liriano(Elbow Surgery) and Brad Radke(retirement), the Twins took a hit in the rotation. They still have Johan Santana, the best pitcher in the game, and Carlos Silva. The good thing about having injury issues last season was that #### Bosner and Matt Garza were able to get some needed experience. I'm kinda leary of the signing of Ramon Ortiz and Sidney Ponson though...Grade: B
Bullpen This bullpen is exceptional. I would say that it rivals both the White Sox and Tigers. Joe Nathan is a great closer and Juan Rincon is a great setup man. Dennys Reyes is a good reliever from the left side. Grade: A
Overview The Twins will win this division because of their toughness and the fact that they've been there since they were deemed the Contraction Kids by their owner Carl Pohlan and the commissioner Allen H.(Bud) Selig. Since 2002, this franchise has been around and in the playoffs. I know the fans are proud and when the new stadium is built, they should be selling it out. I love seeing the small market teams, like the Twins, Marlins, and A's succeed because that is what baseball is all about. Grade: B+
Buddy Bell has a young team that has been rebuilding since the George Brett/Brett Saberhagen years. This season should be the first for highly-touted prospects Alex Gordon and Billy Butler.
Catcher The offseason trade for Jason LaRue shows that the organization is not too happy with John Buck's play. This will be a position of weakness for the Royals and whoever wins the job will have their work cut out for them. Grade: C-
First Base Ryan Shealy was acquired last season from Colorado and was the starter as soon as he landed in KC. He hit .277 with 7 HR and 37 RBI and should be able to continue his maturation process. Grade: B-
Second Base I love Mark Grudzelanek because he is a hard nose player. However, he is getting up in age and could have a down season in '07. Grade: C+
Shortstop Angel Berroa's numbers regressed in '06 to .234, 9 HR, and 54 RBI. At least his error total went down from 25 to 18. Grade: C
Third Base Let the Alex Gordon countdown begin. Gordon, the University of Nebraska prospect, was the top prospect in the Royals organization last season playing in AA. If he makes the team, that may make Mark Teahan expendable. Teahan, part of the Beltran trade in '04, is a good player who doesn't make a lot of mental mistakes. Grade: B
Outfield This is a group that needs some fresh blood. I'm not a big fan of Emil Brown and even though I like Reggie Sanders, he is getting up in age. The defense in the outfield revolves around David DeJesus in center. Grade: C-
Designated Hitter Mike Sweeney is way past his prime and needs to retire! Grade: C
Starting Rotation Gil Meche has to be grinning all the way to the bank when he signed his 5 year-$54 million contract in the offseason, my one question for Dayton Moore is.....ARE YOU NUTS? Meche is not a #1. Hell, he's not even a #2 on most teams but you paid him that much money. I do like Luke Hudson and Brian Bannister, but they both need more experience. Grade: D
Bullpen Dotel is the only person in the pen I would keep....and that's even a stretch. Grade: F
Overview I wish ownership would allow Dayton Moore to rebuild and retool the way that Royals fans want them too. I love the youth on the team, but then need more veterans. Maybe they should go after Jose Vidro in the offseason. Grade: D+
The reigning AL Champs made the first big splash in the offseason getting Gary Sheffield from the Yankees to add the power bat that they were missing in the World Series against St. Louis. Here's the position preview for the Tigers.
Catcher What can you say about Ivan Rodriguez. Pudge had a great season, but struggled in the postseason. He is the leader on the field and is a perfect fit for Jim Leyland when dealing with the young arms on the staff. I can't think of a better catcher for this team. Grade: A-
First Base What started out as Chris Shelton became "The Mayor" Sean Casey who should be loved by the fans in the Motor City because of his great work ethic. This guy is a throwback in every sense. He may not be a power hitter, but he has a great glove and can spread the ball everywhere. Grade: B+
Second Base I hoped and prayed that Placido Polanco would have been available in the free agent market prior to the 2004 season because he is probably the player I miss the most as a Cardinals fan. He is a hardnose, gritty player who tends to do what a #2 hitter needs to do, get the runner over. Grade: B
Shortstop Carlos Guillen had an MVP-type season last year because he actually stayed healthy the entire year. Guillen is a free agent-to-be and hopefully will be resigned with a long term deal. I don't know what he doesn't get the love that he deserves nationally, but he will this season. Grade: A-
Third Base It's another homegrown player that has made a difference for this team. Inge, who started his career as a catcher, made a good transition to third base and was rewarded with a contract extension. He batted .253 with 27 HR and 83 RBI last season and was the power bat in the bottom of the order. Grade: B-
Outfield The outfield of Craig Monroe, Curtis Granderson, and Magglio Ordonez is probably the best outfield in the AL Central. Monroe had a good year power wise with 28 HR and 92 RBI and a .255 average while Granderson went .255 with 19 HR and 68 RBI and 8 SB. Magglio went .298 with 24 HR and 102 RBI. They need more production on the bases from Granderson. Grade: B-
Designated Hitter They are using Gary Sheffield as the DH and will love having the power bat this season. He is a perfect fit for this lineup. Grade: A-
Starting Rotation This staff is the best in the Central with "The Gambler" Kenny Rogers, Bonderman, and Verlander as top of the line starters. Nate Robertson and Mike Maroth are dependable lefties with injury issues. First round pick Andrew Miller is waiting the wings. Grade: A-
Bullpen I love this staff, with Todd Jones closing and Joel Zumaya and Fernando Rodney setting him up throwing 100 mph heat. Grade: A-
Overview I'm picking the Tigers to finish second, but this is a three team race in the AL Central and any of the three teams can win it and the wild card probably will come out of this division. Grade: B+
I am an avid sports fan who attempts to watch/read about as many games as possible. Growing up in St. Louis, I am a die-hard St. Louis Cardinals fan. Not having an NFL team for most of my life, until the Rams showed up, I am a Tennessee Titans fan and I am also a University of Tennessee fan. I am a recent graduate of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
