For those of you who don't know, I've also been doing some writing for the Bleacher Report. Things have been going very well! Recently, one of my articles got posted on the home page of NHL.com, so here are a few examples of the things we've been writing about over on the Bleacher Report!
Also, The Sin Bin is part of a grassroots fan movement for the Colorado Avalanche! Check us out on twitter @BurgundyBrigade, and check out our page on facebook!
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/640774-nhl-power-rankings-the-20-most-clutch-players-among-playoff-hopeful-teams This Article was featured on NHL.com
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/642924-colorado-avalanche-celebrate-milan-hejduks-900th-game-with-a-win
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/641893-martin-st-louis-and-the-best-waterbug-on-each-nhl-team
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/644436-colorado-avalanche-assuming-adam-foote-retires-who-will-be-the-next-captain
Hope you enjoy!!
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Golf Journal: Valley-Hi
Now that we are back into Spring, almost, I'm looking to get my golf journal going again! I went out today, for the first time this year, thanks to the fact that I'm currently on spring break.
I was very uncertain about how things would go, first time playing since about August, but was also kind of excited. I was getting to try out my brand new set of golf clubs that my wife allowed me to buy myself for Christmas. I got a set of Taylor Made Burner irons, and added a 3 wood burner to my collection, so I'm completely burnered up!
At first, I wasn't too happy with things because of the driving range. This particular course has mats set out to hit off of right now, and I HATE hitting on mats. They don't give you really accurate feedback on how you're hitting the ball, unless you absolutely catch it clean. My swing still felt a bit rusty, but after the about 30 minutes of hitting off of the mat, I felt okay about things. Still unsure, because it was a mat, but good enough to give a round a go.
I had been kicked out of the apartment by my wife while she cleaned so I had all the time I wanted to burn, essentially. So I went and signed up for 18 holes and got out. I was joined by a couple other gentleman, and I'm glad I was. They were very fun, laid back, and I really enjoyed the front 9 we all played.
Front 9 started off a bit rough, topped my first tee shot, which happens when it's your first time out for the season, but managed to have an okay next couple of shots. Ended the first hole, a par 5, with a 7. Meh, but I'll take it for now.
As the front 9 kept going, I got into a pretty good rhythm, and I was LOVING the way my new irons were striking the ball. I hit about 3 regulation greens in a row, which NEVER happens, and ended up with a couple good pars on the front 9. Ended with a 44 going out.
Then started the back 9. Something crazy happened to me on the back 9, I was playing really well. First 2 holes were both four pars and I scored a 5 on both of them. On the 12th hole, the shortest hole on the course, I absolutely destroyed my drive and put it to about 65 yards from the green. I've seen this book before, great tee shot, now I have a really short approach which I will no doubt duff off to the right and start swearing for a bit. Nope, caught it clean, with my new approach wedge (Taylor Made, did I mention that?) and landed it about five feet from the cup. Naturally, now I would do my usual 3 putt from 5 feet, right? No. Center of the cup, and a birdie. I'm usually good for a couple birdies every few rounds or so, but on my first time out? Pumped my fist, pulled the ball out, and quickly wrote down my 3 on my score card.
Moving forward, I expected to fold like a cheap suit, because that's what I do. NOPE. Holes 13 - 17 I parred all the way. Making a few pretty solid up and downs along the way. 17 was a short of short par 5 with a water hazard right in front of the green. I was feeling very peckish after a really good drive, and pulled out my 5 wood. I wasn't terribly concerned with hitting the green, just wanted to try and muscle it over the water, which I did! The stars were aligning, or something, because everything was going right.
18 had just an evil green. I was on in 2, and had a downhill putt from about 15 feet. I gave it a pretty gentle stroke and it went by the hole about 25 feet. 2 putted back for a 5 to close out my round. A back 9 38. That's right, 38 on 9 holes of golf. That is something that I have NEVER done. Gave me a grand total of 82 for the round. I was stunned! 82 is my all-time low round. Allow me to say it again, I LOVE my new golf clubs.
There were a couple negatives on the day. First, the driving range mats. Second, I couldn't find my sunhat before I went, so my neck is now totally red (curse you Irish skin!). Third, I lost a few balls along the way, only one into a hazard, but the others because this course was so poorly maintained that the majority of the course was dead grass. As many of you are aware, sometimes when you hit the ball into large areas of dead grass, and don't see EXACTLY where it landed, it is like searching for a needle in a hay stack trying to find your ball. I don't count myself for penalties on that, just drop another one by where I figure it went out, and go from there. Last, first time out, and I walked 18 the whole way. My legs are still yelling for this. Oh, well, I'm joining a roller hockey league that starts in like two weeks, they'll just have to get used to the abuse.
If any of you are avid golfers, and you're in the market for a new set of clubs, get yourself some burners. Those things are amazing. I've never hit so many clean shots before. I'm totally sold on the Taylor Made brand. If they let me do commercials, I would. I have never driven a ball farther or straighter, I've never hit so many greens in regulation. I've never played golf this well, until I got some Taylor Made Burners. Everything I get, from now on, will be Taylor Made, and I will continue to sing their praises.
Thanks for reading. Tell me some of your low golf scores so we can all compare!
I was very uncertain about how things would go, first time playing since about August, but was also kind of excited. I was getting to try out my brand new set of golf clubs that my wife allowed me to buy myself for Christmas. I got a set of Taylor Made Burner irons, and added a 3 wood burner to my collection, so I'm completely burnered up!
At first, I wasn't too happy with things because of the driving range. This particular course has mats set out to hit off of right now, and I HATE hitting on mats. They don't give you really accurate feedback on how you're hitting the ball, unless you absolutely catch it clean. My swing still felt a bit rusty, but after the about 30 minutes of hitting off of the mat, I felt okay about things. Still unsure, because it was a mat, but good enough to give a round a go.
I had been kicked out of the apartment by my wife while she cleaned so I had all the time I wanted to burn, essentially. So I went and signed up for 18 holes and got out. I was joined by a couple other gentleman, and I'm glad I was. They were very fun, laid back, and I really enjoyed the front 9 we all played.
Front 9 started off a bit rough, topped my first tee shot, which happens when it's your first time out for the season, but managed to have an okay next couple of shots. Ended the first hole, a par 5, with a 7. Meh, but I'll take it for now.
As the front 9 kept going, I got into a pretty good rhythm, and I was LOVING the way my new irons were striking the ball. I hit about 3 regulation greens in a row, which NEVER happens, and ended up with a couple good pars on the front 9. Ended with a 44 going out.
Then started the back 9. Something crazy happened to me on the back 9, I was playing really well. First 2 holes were both four pars and I scored a 5 on both of them. On the 12th hole, the shortest hole on the course, I absolutely destroyed my drive and put it to about 65 yards from the green. I've seen this book before, great tee shot, now I have a really short approach which I will no doubt duff off to the right and start swearing for a bit. Nope, caught it clean, with my new approach wedge (Taylor Made, did I mention that?) and landed it about five feet from the cup. Naturally, now I would do my usual 3 putt from 5 feet, right? No. Center of the cup, and a birdie. I'm usually good for a couple birdies every few rounds or so, but on my first time out? Pumped my fist, pulled the ball out, and quickly wrote down my 3 on my score card.
Moving forward, I expected to fold like a cheap suit, because that's what I do. NOPE. Holes 13 - 17 I parred all the way. Making a few pretty solid up and downs along the way. 17 was a short of short par 5 with a water hazard right in front of the green. I was feeling very peckish after a really good drive, and pulled out my 5 wood. I wasn't terribly concerned with hitting the green, just wanted to try and muscle it over the water, which I did! The stars were aligning, or something, because everything was going right.
18 had just an evil green. I was on in 2, and had a downhill putt from about 15 feet. I gave it a pretty gentle stroke and it went by the hole about 25 feet. 2 putted back for a 5 to close out my round. A back 9 38. That's right, 38 on 9 holes of golf. That is something that I have NEVER done. Gave me a grand total of 82 for the round. I was stunned! 82 is my all-time low round. Allow me to say it again, I LOVE my new golf clubs.
There were a couple negatives on the day. First, the driving range mats. Second, I couldn't find my sunhat before I went, so my neck is now totally red (curse you Irish skin!). Third, I lost a few balls along the way, only one into a hazard, but the others because this course was so poorly maintained that the majority of the course was dead grass. As many of you are aware, sometimes when you hit the ball into large areas of dead grass, and don't see EXACTLY where it landed, it is like searching for a needle in a hay stack trying to find your ball. I don't count myself for penalties on that, just drop another one by where I figure it went out, and go from there. Last, first time out, and I walked 18 the whole way. My legs are still yelling for this. Oh, well, I'm joining a roller hockey league that starts in like two weeks, they'll just have to get used to the abuse.
If any of you are avid golfers, and you're in the market for a new set of clubs, get yourself some burners. Those things are amazing. I've never hit so many clean shots before. I'm totally sold on the Taylor Made brand. If they let me do commercials, I would. I have never driven a ball farther or straighter, I've never hit so many greens in regulation. I've never played golf this well, until I got some Taylor Made Burners. Everything I get, from now on, will be Taylor Made, and I will continue to sing their praises.
Thanks for reading. Tell me some of your low golf scores so we can all compare!
Saturday, March 19, 2011
MLS Season Begins - Rapids Show Colorado Sports How to do it!
I had a brand new experience, tonight. Those of you who know me know that I am pretty much a follower of two sports, hockey and football, usually in that order. Recently, however, I have discovered the world's game. Soccer.
It all started when one of my friends in Colorado Springs told me that their Rapids support group, most specifically the Bulldog Support Group, check out their facebook page on that link, was going to go an Avalanche game.
Those of you who follow me on twitter, @TheSinBin, remember how much fun that was. The group was loud, on their feet the whole game, making noise, even when the Avs were down 5-1 and the rest of the building was busy knitting or something. After that event, I decided I had to check them out in their element.
Tonight I went to my first ever Colorado Rapids game as a member of the BSG, and let me tell you something. The rest of Colorado sports fans can learn a thing or two about how to support your team from the Rapids fans. Opening night, PACKED HOUSE. It was also banner night, as the Rapids celebrated their 2010 MLS Cup Victory at the start of the game. Then the game began, and what action it was!
Soccer, coming from a guy who has never really cared for the sport, is exciting as all hell to watch in person. Especially when you are in a group that is standing the whole game, chanting and singing to support the team or dog the visitors, telling the referees what they can do with their whistle, and jumping up and down during every chant and after every goal. There is a lot that goes on! Even the visiting team brought their own supporters who had their own chants. It was an amazing atmosphere.
One thing that people have been complaining about a lot in Colorado Sports this past year is the lack of fan support. Broncos complaining about having more Steelers fans than Broncos fans in the stands, Avalanche fans not filling the Pepsi Center (or playing video games on a tablet throughout the whole game. That's right kid in front of the BSG in 374, we saw you), Rockies never really filling the house, etc... Rapids fans were out in full scale tonight. Dick's Sporting Goods Stadium was filled. Rapids flags waved all game long. Support groups drove the Portland supporters into silence for most of the game. And the Rapids came out with a 3-1 victory.
Seriously, Denver sports fans need to remember what it is like to be rowdy and noisy and to make the team want to put hide under their benches because we're so loud. If you want a reminder of what that feels like, as I was given tonight, you need to go and check out the Colorado Rapids. It is MORE than worth the price of admission. Once Denver fans get the spirit back like the Rapids fans have, people will remember what a great sports town Denver really is.
GO RAPIDS!
It all started when one of my friends in Colorado Springs told me that their Rapids support group, most specifically the Bulldog Support Group, check out their facebook page on that link, was going to go an Avalanche game.
Those of you who follow me on twitter, @TheSinBin, remember how much fun that was. The group was loud, on their feet the whole game, making noise, even when the Avs were down 5-1 and the rest of the building was busy knitting or something. After that event, I decided I had to check them out in their element.
Tonight I went to my first ever Colorado Rapids game as a member of the BSG, and let me tell you something. The rest of Colorado sports fans can learn a thing or two about how to support your team from the Rapids fans. Opening night, PACKED HOUSE. It was also banner night, as the Rapids celebrated their 2010 MLS Cup Victory at the start of the game. Then the game began, and what action it was!
Soccer, coming from a guy who has never really cared for the sport, is exciting as all hell to watch in person. Especially when you are in a group that is standing the whole game, chanting and singing to support the team or dog the visitors, telling the referees what they can do with their whistle, and jumping up and down during every chant and after every goal. There is a lot that goes on! Even the visiting team brought their own supporters who had their own chants. It was an amazing atmosphere.
One thing that people have been complaining about a lot in Colorado Sports this past year is the lack of fan support. Broncos complaining about having more Steelers fans than Broncos fans in the stands, Avalanche fans not filling the Pepsi Center (or playing video games on a tablet throughout the whole game. That's right kid in front of the BSG in 374, we saw you), Rockies never really filling the house, etc... Rapids fans were out in full scale tonight. Dick's Sporting Goods Stadium was filled. Rapids flags waved all game long. Support groups drove the Portland supporters into silence for most of the game. And the Rapids came out with a 3-1 victory.
Seriously, Denver sports fans need to remember what it is like to be rowdy and noisy and to make the team want to put hide under their benches because we're so loud. If you want a reminder of what that feels like, as I was given tonight, you need to go and check out the Colorado Rapids. It is MORE than worth the price of admission. Once Denver fans get the spirit back like the Rapids fans have, people will remember what a great sports town Denver really is.
GO RAPIDS!
Sunday, March 13, 2011
NFL Owners and Players Can't Reach A Deal - Legal Battle to Ensue
Time has come, time has gone. Extension was given, extension has gone. Mediation requested, yet nothing seems to have been accomplished, and Friday the owners made it official by moving forward with locking out the players until a new Collective Bargaining Agreement can be reached.
Now, in case you're not familiar with what it is, or if you live in Wisconsin where there seem to be a lot of people who have forgotten what collective bargaining is, collective bargaining is when the group of workers in a specific field are allowed to have a say in the environment of their workplace. They are also allowed to negotiate things like health benefits, pay rates, etc... This is the whole purpose for having a union.
As with pretty much everything else in professional sports, the main issue revolving around the current work stoppage is money. The owners, claiming that they are losing money, are asking for a larger chunk of the $9 billion worth of revenue generated by the NFL. The players assert that the owners refuse to prove this, though there are many teams who have come forward ready to open their books for all to see. Many teams, however, have not offered to help prove the owner's point.
The players, however, while attempting to play the role of the victim, are doing something that isn't exactly on the up and up either. Knowing that a lockout was possible, the union threatened to decertify so that they can sue the league with an anti-trust lawsuit; claiming the owners are discriminating against a specific group of people. It's a crafty move that, frankly, made it so that they didn't have to make too much of an effort either. If you ask me, if you want to have the rights to collectively bargain, then you need to also accept the possibility of a lock out, not try to pull a little stunt like this so that you can get your way.
Bottom line here, the NFL as a whole is going to suffer from this. $9 billion of revenue, and they can't agree on a way to divide it. I have an idea. Why doesn't the NFL take that $9 billion that they are so indecisive about, and give it to public education. The state of Colorado alone is proposing to cut $300 million from the education budget, I bet that they could find a way to use it. So could the teachers in Wisconsin who now have lost their rights to collectively bargain.
All people involved in this lockout come off looking like greedy millionaires and billionaires crying about needing more money. Not good, especially in the current economy. Once again, until both of these parties can bring their big boy pants to work, both the league and the players will lose money and the fans.
Now, in case you're not familiar with what it is, or if you live in Wisconsin where there seem to be a lot of people who have forgotten what collective bargaining is, collective bargaining is when the group of workers in a specific field are allowed to have a say in the environment of their workplace. They are also allowed to negotiate things like health benefits, pay rates, etc... This is the whole purpose for having a union.
As with pretty much everything else in professional sports, the main issue revolving around the current work stoppage is money. The owners, claiming that they are losing money, are asking for a larger chunk of the $9 billion worth of revenue generated by the NFL. The players assert that the owners refuse to prove this, though there are many teams who have come forward ready to open their books for all to see. Many teams, however, have not offered to help prove the owner's point.
The players, however, while attempting to play the role of the victim, are doing something that isn't exactly on the up and up either. Knowing that a lockout was possible, the union threatened to decertify so that they can sue the league with an anti-trust lawsuit; claiming the owners are discriminating against a specific group of people. It's a crafty move that, frankly, made it so that they didn't have to make too much of an effort either. If you ask me, if you want to have the rights to collectively bargain, then you need to also accept the possibility of a lock out, not try to pull a little stunt like this so that you can get your way.
Bottom line here, the NFL as a whole is going to suffer from this. $9 billion of revenue, and they can't agree on a way to divide it. I have an idea. Why doesn't the NFL take that $9 billion that they are so indecisive about, and give it to public education. The state of Colorado alone is proposing to cut $300 million from the education budget, I bet that they could find a way to use it. So could the teachers in Wisconsin who now have lost their rights to collectively bargain.
All people involved in this lockout come off looking like greedy millionaires and billionaires crying about needing more money. Not good, especially in the current economy. Once again, until both of these parties can bring their big boy pants to work, both the league and the players will lose money and the fans.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Avalanche Have Hit an All-time Low
Sorry it has been a while since I've written anything on this site, folks, I've been doing a lot of writing on the Bleacher Report, and have neglected you. Thank goodness A-Mac has been here to help pick up some of my slack.
That being said, if you want a much more hopeful view of what I'm about to write, take a look at the story on Bleacher Report.
Well, the Avalanche have done it again. Now losers of seven straight games, and 17 out of their last 18 games, the Colorado Avalanche are setting a new standard for amateurism in their games. Never before have I seen members of this once proud franchise quit so often, and so fast game in and game out.
I have said to several people that this team may be the worst team in the history of the franchise, and that is worse than the one that earned us the number three overall draft pick three years ago.
This may become a bit of a rant, and I apologize for that, so I'll cut to the chase. Joe Sacco needs to be fired. This guy seems to have one way of coaching. He does not adjust, and he does not attempt to fix anything, he just keeps plugging away with the same things and the team does not improve.
Case and point, he constantly talks about needing to skate in order to play their game. You just watch teams clog up the neutral zone against the Avs and they can't do anything. They are lost, their passing is bad, they make bad plays and boom, the puck is going the other way.
Or, the way he handles his personnel. If Sacco isn't happy with how you're playing, he benches you for a period, or makes you a healthy scratch for the game as his way of "sending a message". It worked for a while last season, and even a bit at the start of this season. Now players seem to be playing scared out of fear of being a healthy scratch! That's not coaching! Part of coaching is showing faith in your players, and Sacco does not do that.
About the only person he has done that with is Matt Hunwick, who is possibly the worst trade the Avalanche have ever made. Hunwick is constantly out for goals against, avoids physical contact at all costs, makes horrible decisions in his own zone, and is frequently found just watching the play yet he is out almost every single short handed situation. It just baffles me.
Sacco did a great job in his first year, but it seems his message has been tuned out by his players. Plus, he comes out for every press conference saying the exact same things about making mental errors and not starting the game on time. All of those things, when they are problems for more than two months of a season, are the fault of a coaching staff. One or two games, those are your players and you make adjustments. No adjustments made, same mistakes night in and night out, coaches. Joe Sacco is a good AHL coach, and he has done all he can do right now. It is time to fire Joe Sacco.
That being said, if you want a much more hopeful view of what I'm about to write, take a look at the story on Bleacher Report.
Well, the Avalanche have done it again. Now losers of seven straight games, and 17 out of their last 18 games, the Colorado Avalanche are setting a new standard for amateurism in their games. Never before have I seen members of this once proud franchise quit so often, and so fast game in and game out.
I have said to several people that this team may be the worst team in the history of the franchise, and that is worse than the one that earned us the number three overall draft pick three years ago.
This may become a bit of a rant, and I apologize for that, so I'll cut to the chase. Joe Sacco needs to be fired. This guy seems to have one way of coaching. He does not adjust, and he does not attempt to fix anything, he just keeps plugging away with the same things and the team does not improve.
Case and point, he constantly talks about needing to skate in order to play their game. You just watch teams clog up the neutral zone against the Avs and they can't do anything. They are lost, their passing is bad, they make bad plays and boom, the puck is going the other way.
Or, the way he handles his personnel. If Sacco isn't happy with how you're playing, he benches you for a period, or makes you a healthy scratch for the game as his way of "sending a message". It worked for a while last season, and even a bit at the start of this season. Now players seem to be playing scared out of fear of being a healthy scratch! That's not coaching! Part of coaching is showing faith in your players, and Sacco does not do that.
About the only person he has done that with is Matt Hunwick, who is possibly the worst trade the Avalanche have ever made. Hunwick is constantly out for goals against, avoids physical contact at all costs, makes horrible decisions in his own zone, and is frequently found just watching the play yet he is out almost every single short handed situation. It just baffles me.
Sacco did a great job in his first year, but it seems his message has been tuned out by his players. Plus, he comes out for every press conference saying the exact same things about making mental errors and not starting the game on time. All of those things, when they are problems for more than two months of a season, are the fault of a coaching staff. One or two games, those are your players and you make adjustments. No adjustments made, same mistakes night in and night out, coaches. Joe Sacco is a good AHL coach, and he has done all he can do right now. It is time to fire Joe Sacco.
Monday, February 28, 2011
A-Mac Presents The National League Preview
In a day full of hockey drama, I will write about baseball.. The first real games of spring training have been played and its time to preview the Senior Circuit, The National League.
NL East-
1. Philadelphia Phillies- All they did was shock the world and sign Cliff Lee after trading him away for a season. They now have the best rotation in baseball. They will need to score some runs but we will see how a full season of Cliff and Roy Oswalt do in Philly(Good I am sure).
2. Atlanta Braves- The toughest thing they had this offseason was replacing Bobby Cox. They picked a good character guy to do that in Freddi Gonzalez. If Chipper Jones can have one more good year, the Braves will be the Wild Card team.
3. Florida Marlins- Sneeky good but still not great. Young team like always though Hanley is still the MVP of this team.
4. Washington Nationals- They paid a guy a 100 million dollars because he can grow a good beard. In all seriousness, Jayson was not Werth it. They have upside but without either of their last two Number 1 picks playing in the majors this season, they will once again not be in the playoffs.
5. New York Mets- Money issues, manager issues, every type of issues. They need to prove to everyone they can be good. I mean Wright might as well get traded as his talents are being abused being on that team.
NL Central- This division is tough to predict especially given key injuries to some teams.
1. Milwaukee Brewers- I called it first-Me and a lot of people! Adding Greinke and Marcum, they are built for the short term. If they fade by the trade deadline, they will trade Fielder but I forsee them doing well and winning this division, especially after the debacle in St. Louis.
2. St. Louis Cardinals- They should win this division but losing Adam Wainwright will hurt them. Pujols is pissed and is about to take his talents to the Bronx next year unless they can keep him happy. They will have to rely on Cris Carpenters twice rebuilt arm if they are to be any good.
3. Chicago Cubs- Added some key free agents but are still a few arms away from being awesome. This team is trending upward.
4. Cincinnati Reds- Trending downwards. They are young but the arms are iffy. Dusty worked some magic last season but won't have that this season even with Cuban Fireballer Aroldis Chapman.
5. Houston Astros- Finally in rebuilding mode, but still old in a lot of places. This is a team without an Identity with Berkman and Oswalt gone.
6. Pittsburgh Pirates- This team supports my theory for relegation! Can you even name another Pirate other than Doumitt or McCutcheon. I feel for Pirate fans but not for Pittsburgh fans in general since their other teams are kicking ass.
NL West-
1. San Francisco Giants- Hard to pick against the Defending World Series Champions. They have a great rotation and Kung Fu Panda has come into camp with lots of weight off so hopefully he can regain his form.
2. Colorado Rockies- Kept their core intact. A Full year of Tulo again. This team can be good but need to have a full rotation.
3. Los Angeles Dodgers- Ownership issues muddle the water for this team. They could be good but we will see how first time manager Don Mattignly can handle them.
4. San Diego Padres- Traded their best player but got some great prospects in return. This is a team in rebuilding but they are trying to do it right. Stick with them Padres fans and 3 years from now you will be rewarded. They should trade Health Bell this season and get a few good returns.
5. Arizona Diamondbacks- This is a team who could be good, but lack real cohesion as a unit. Upton will be gone at the trade deadline.
NL East-
1. Philadelphia Phillies- All they did was shock the world and sign Cliff Lee after trading him away for a season. They now have the best rotation in baseball. They will need to score some runs but we will see how a full season of Cliff and Roy Oswalt do in Philly(Good I am sure).
2. Atlanta Braves- The toughest thing they had this offseason was replacing Bobby Cox. They picked a good character guy to do that in Freddi Gonzalez. If Chipper Jones can have one more good year, the Braves will be the Wild Card team.
3. Florida Marlins- Sneeky good but still not great. Young team like always though Hanley is still the MVP of this team.
4. Washington Nationals- They paid a guy a 100 million dollars because he can grow a good beard. In all seriousness, Jayson was not Werth it. They have upside but without either of their last two Number 1 picks playing in the majors this season, they will once again not be in the playoffs.
5. New York Mets- Money issues, manager issues, every type of issues. They need to prove to everyone they can be good. I mean Wright might as well get traded as his talents are being abused being on that team.
NL Central- This division is tough to predict especially given key injuries to some teams.
1. Milwaukee Brewers- I called it first-Me and a lot of people! Adding Greinke and Marcum, they are built for the short term. If they fade by the trade deadline, they will trade Fielder but I forsee them doing well and winning this division, especially after the debacle in St. Louis.
2. St. Louis Cardinals- They should win this division but losing Adam Wainwright will hurt them. Pujols is pissed and is about to take his talents to the Bronx next year unless they can keep him happy. They will have to rely on Cris Carpenters twice rebuilt arm if they are to be any good.
3. Chicago Cubs- Added some key free agents but are still a few arms away from being awesome. This team is trending upward.
4. Cincinnati Reds- Trending downwards. They are young but the arms are iffy. Dusty worked some magic last season but won't have that this season even with Cuban Fireballer Aroldis Chapman.
5. Houston Astros- Finally in rebuilding mode, but still old in a lot of places. This is a team without an Identity with Berkman and Oswalt gone.
6. Pittsburgh Pirates- This team supports my theory for relegation! Can you even name another Pirate other than Doumitt or McCutcheon. I feel for Pirate fans but not for Pittsburgh fans in general since their other teams are kicking ass.
NL West-
1. San Francisco Giants- Hard to pick against the Defending World Series Champions. They have a great rotation and Kung Fu Panda has come into camp with lots of weight off so hopefully he can regain his form.
2. Colorado Rockies- Kept their core intact. A Full year of Tulo again. This team can be good but need to have a full rotation.
3. Los Angeles Dodgers- Ownership issues muddle the water for this team. They could be good but we will see how first time manager Don Mattignly can handle them.
4. San Diego Padres- Traded their best player but got some great prospects in return. This is a team in rebuilding but they are trying to do it right. Stick with them Padres fans and 3 years from now you will be rewarded. They should trade Health Bell this season and get a few good returns.
5. Arizona Diamondbacks- This is a team who could be good, but lack real cohesion as a unit. Upton will be gone at the trade deadline.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Broncos To Go With Orton...For Now
After day one of the NFL Scouting Combine, Denver Broncos head coach John Fox was asked about the quarterback situation that is currently brewing in the Mile High City. Fox said, "Right now Kyle is our starter." Echoing statements made by Chief Football Executive John Elway during Super Bowl week.
This has to be something that Kyle Orton likes to hear, as it is no real secret that he didn't want to come back as Tim Tebow's backup. So it has to be nice to know that he will come back into training camp on the top of the depth chart.
However, Fox also said this. "I don’t think we’ll really figure it out until we start competing. It’s a group of three that are very capable...We have a young guy, high draft pick, in Tim Tebow who got his feet wet last year toward the end of the season. And then shoot, Brady Quinn I’m looking forward to seeing.”
Wait a minute, didn't you just say that Orton was the starter? Well yeah, he did. But that is of course saying that if the season started right now, Orton would be the guy. Also, you have to think that with the unknown labor situation, having a seasoned veteran available should the players be out of practices for several weeks as a result of a lockout would be more beneficial than a second year player with only three games of experience.
Slow down, Tebow nation, I can hear you coming a mile away! Really, you should all like what Fox has said here too. Yes, Orton has been declared the starter, for now. But Fox is clearly far from dead set on this. As he said, we all won't know who the clear number one guy is until they start competing for it. One thing that Tim Tebow has never minded doing is competing, that is for certain.
This is something that should make all Bronco fans excited. Provided that there is no labor stoppage to delay off-season OTAs and mini-camps, this quarterback competition should make both quarterbacks better. Tebow is going to be better than he was, no doubts. So that means that Orton will have to work just as hard to stay ahead of Tebow. If he's able to do that, and show that he's still clearly the number one guy, then that has to be a good thing. If Tebow does overtake Orton as the team's number one, then the Broncos will be able to move forward with a guy who proved that he was ready for the position. For Bronco fans, this is a win-win.
This will also help the coaches figure out who has the better attitude and who is the better leader as a result. A true leader will see this as a challenge and rise to the occasion. If one of them sulks about it, it will undoubtedly affect his play. Tim Tebow has never been one to back down from any type of challenge to his ability, so it's pretty safe to say that the sulking won't come from him. Orton may not want to have to go through any type of a quarterback competition, but if he wants to remain the starter in Denver, then that's just too bad.
If Orton does go the sulky route and complain instead of letting his play do the talking, then I'll be the first one saying that we should start Tim Tebow. As of this moment, however, Elway and coach Fox have it right. Let's let these two guys battle it out, and see who gives the team the better chance to win come week one of the regular season.
This has to be something that Kyle Orton likes to hear, as it is no real secret that he didn't want to come back as Tim Tebow's backup. So it has to be nice to know that he will come back into training camp on the top of the depth chart.
However, Fox also said this. "I don’t think we’ll really figure it out until we start competing. It’s a group of three that are very capable...We have a young guy, high draft pick, in Tim Tebow who got his feet wet last year toward the end of the season. And then shoot, Brady Quinn I’m looking forward to seeing.”
Wait a minute, didn't you just say that Orton was the starter? Well yeah, he did. But that is of course saying that if the season started right now, Orton would be the guy. Also, you have to think that with the unknown labor situation, having a seasoned veteran available should the players be out of practices for several weeks as a result of a lockout would be more beneficial than a second year player with only three games of experience.
Slow down, Tebow nation, I can hear you coming a mile away! Really, you should all like what Fox has said here too. Yes, Orton has been declared the starter, for now. But Fox is clearly far from dead set on this. As he said, we all won't know who the clear number one guy is until they start competing for it. One thing that Tim Tebow has never minded doing is competing, that is for certain.
This is something that should make all Bronco fans excited. Provided that there is no labor stoppage to delay off-season OTAs and mini-camps, this quarterback competition should make both quarterbacks better. Tebow is going to be better than he was, no doubts. So that means that Orton will have to work just as hard to stay ahead of Tebow. If he's able to do that, and show that he's still clearly the number one guy, then that has to be a good thing. If Tebow does overtake Orton as the team's number one, then the Broncos will be able to move forward with a guy who proved that he was ready for the position. For Bronco fans, this is a win-win.
This will also help the coaches figure out who has the better attitude and who is the better leader as a result. A true leader will see this as a challenge and rise to the occasion. If one of them sulks about it, it will undoubtedly affect his play. Tim Tebow has never been one to back down from any type of challenge to his ability, so it's pretty safe to say that the sulking won't come from him. Orton may not want to have to go through any type of a quarterback competition, but if he wants to remain the starter in Denver, then that's just too bad.
If Orton does go the sulky route and complain instead of letting his play do the talking, then I'll be the first one saying that we should start Tim Tebow. As of this moment, however, Elway and coach Fox have it right. Let's let these two guys battle it out, and see who gives the team the better chance to win come week one of the regular season.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
A-Mac Presents The American League Preview
It is no secret that I am a baseball fan. I had the luxury of living in a town that had a great minor league baseball team growing up. When I was a child, the Rookie League team was affiliated with the Los Angeles Dodgers. This allowed me to be able to see a future Hall of Famer pitcher in Pedro Martinez not to mention a few solid MLB players like Erik Karros and Jose Offerman. It stoked my interest in baseball. I grew up a Red Sox and Braves fan. The Red Sox because its family required and the Braves because I adored Dale Murphy. At the time I followed the Braves more because the Red Sox were mired in the last days of the Rocket as a Red Sock. My interest in baseball waned for a few years til I got involved in fantasy sports. Fantasy Baseball is crack to me. The stats in baseball are much more geeky than football and that appeals to me. Football you just need to outscore your opponent with yardage and tds. Baseball you need to have pitchers with great WHIPs, K's, and OAVs and hitters with great OPS, Zone Defensive Ratings, and WARs. Though most still play in the traditional 5x5 leagues, Sabremetrics measure better stats. Wins are pretty much useless as a stat to tell who is a good pitcher. I mean Gil Meche once won 15 games in a season. Quality Starts on the other hand help you figure out who really is a good pitcher. So what does this have to do with my column? Absolutely nothing other than to say, I think I know baseball well enough to make my predictions!
Al East- Some claim this is the hardest division to play in but I think the AL Central is because they eat each other for breakfast. I will say this. Two of the best franchises ever do play in this division and the AL Pennant winner has come from this division most on the last 10 years.
1. Boston Red Sox- added Adrian Gonzalez going from a pitcher's heaven to a hitter's heaven. AGone will be a monster in Fenway. Added Carl Crawford and upgraded their overall defense which was a stated goal last season. The Rotation is solid and Beckett and Lackey are poised for bouncebacks. If Dice-K is the 5th starter, something good is going on.
2. New York Yankees(Yankpires)- They added a great 8th inning guy in Rafael Soriano and kept their Captain. They are due to fall maybe but I still think Captain Crunch(Found out he used to eat full boxes of the cereal every morning) Sabbathia is the 2nd best pitcher in baseball.
3. Tampa Bay Don't Call us Devil Rays- Added two Idiots in the twilights of their career but Manny is cheap for them and all he has to do is hit. Johnny Damon is still a serviceable hitter and should do well in the Trop. They might have lost their bullpen but they have David Price and some solid pitchers up and coming. They win 75 games for sure.
4. Toronto Blue Jays- They might leap frog both the 3rd and 2nd teams on this list and sneak into 2nd if their players turn out well. Who would have thought they could have traded their best pitcher and be headed in the right direction? They win 70 games or better. Jose Bautista Must prove he is real though for that to happen. They are poised to compete in the next few years like the Rays in 2008.
5. Baltimore Orioles- Will actually be close to .500 this year! They signed some good hitters in Vlad Daddy and Derek Lee and have some good young players. The Greek and Adam Not PacMan Jones need to pick it up after last season.
Al Central- They eat each other every year which is why the AL Beast gets the Wild Card.
1. Minnesota Twins- All they did was resign a great lockeroom guy and almost 600 HRs in Jim Thome. They signed a Japanese Import with tremendous upside. They kept Carl Pavano and his weird mustache. If Justin Morneau returns to health, they win 90 games.
2. Chicago White Sox- Added Adam Dunn, kept Mr. White Sock Konerko but lost their closer to the other Sox. Ozzie Guillen knows how to compete though we will see if he keeps his job if him and Kenny Williams keep butting heads.
3. Detroit Tigers- They could switch places with the White Sox if Miguel Cabrera gets his head on straight. But they traded Mr. Almost Perfect for no real reason. They should have kept Gallaraga. They signed Victor Martinez to DH and play 1b when Cabrera needs to rest. We will see if that works out for them.
4. Kansas City Royals- They aren't as crappy as years past even after trading Zack Greinke. They will still suck but Billy Butler will at least make some fantasy owner happy and Joakim Soria will continue to put up ungodly stats when you know he gets in the game.
5. Cleveland Indians- Poor Cleveland, I can't even say much more than that. This is like Major League but you know with no real chance of actually winning something.
Al West
1. Oakland A's- They had one of the best offeasons albeit quiet. Their division rivals all got worse by losing key players or losing out on key free agents. They have a young team and their catcher is sneaky good.
2. California Angels- I refuse to call them by anything other than that because that's what they are to me. I attended an Angels game when Wally Joyner was playing for them. They have a better pitching staff than the Rangers. Still they will suck after not upgrading at any offensive position.
3. Texas Rangers- They Fucked Up. Not only could they not sign their best Free Agent, they upset their Franchise face and signed a guy who is only good in contract years. They have some good young guys but Feliz, Wilson, and Andrus need to prove it to me that they can continue their uptick from last season. They still upgraded their catcher position which was a glaring problem last season, but is Napoli(who might not catch at all), and Torreable really that great of an upgrade. I will say if Brandon Webb is healthy, they might be better. I just forsee a freefall for Colby Lewis especially.
4. Seattle Mariners- They. Still. Cannot. Hit. King Felix will be gone by July and they will be the worst team not named the Cleveland Indians. Another sad summer in Seattle. Ichiro might also demand a trade if they cannot compete.
Al East- Some claim this is the hardest division to play in but I think the AL Central is because they eat each other for breakfast. I will say this. Two of the best franchises ever do play in this division and the AL Pennant winner has come from this division most on the last 10 years.
1. Boston Red Sox- added Adrian Gonzalez going from a pitcher's heaven to a hitter's heaven. AGone will be a monster in Fenway. Added Carl Crawford and upgraded their overall defense which was a stated goal last season. The Rotation is solid and Beckett and Lackey are poised for bouncebacks. If Dice-K is the 5th starter, something good is going on.
2. New York Yankees(Yankpires)- They added a great 8th inning guy in Rafael Soriano and kept their Captain. They are due to fall maybe but I still think Captain Crunch(Found out he used to eat full boxes of the cereal every morning) Sabbathia is the 2nd best pitcher in baseball.
3. Tampa Bay Don't Call us Devil Rays- Added two Idiots in the twilights of their career but Manny is cheap for them and all he has to do is hit. Johnny Damon is still a serviceable hitter and should do well in the Trop. They might have lost their bullpen but they have David Price and some solid pitchers up and coming. They win 75 games for sure.
4. Toronto Blue Jays- They might leap frog both the 3rd and 2nd teams on this list and sneak into 2nd if their players turn out well. Who would have thought they could have traded their best pitcher and be headed in the right direction? They win 70 games or better. Jose Bautista Must prove he is real though for that to happen. They are poised to compete in the next few years like the Rays in 2008.
5. Baltimore Orioles- Will actually be close to .500 this year! They signed some good hitters in Vlad Daddy and Derek Lee and have some good young players. The Greek and Adam Not PacMan Jones need to pick it up after last season.
Al Central- They eat each other every year which is why the AL Beast gets the Wild Card.
1. Minnesota Twins- All they did was resign a great lockeroom guy and almost 600 HRs in Jim Thome. They signed a Japanese Import with tremendous upside. They kept Carl Pavano and his weird mustache. If Justin Morneau returns to health, they win 90 games.
2. Chicago White Sox- Added Adam Dunn, kept Mr. White Sock Konerko but lost their closer to the other Sox. Ozzie Guillen knows how to compete though we will see if he keeps his job if him and Kenny Williams keep butting heads.
3. Detroit Tigers- They could switch places with the White Sox if Miguel Cabrera gets his head on straight. But they traded Mr. Almost Perfect for no real reason. They should have kept Gallaraga. They signed Victor Martinez to DH and play 1b when Cabrera needs to rest. We will see if that works out for them.
4. Kansas City Royals- They aren't as crappy as years past even after trading Zack Greinke. They will still suck but Billy Butler will at least make some fantasy owner happy and Joakim Soria will continue to put up ungodly stats when you know he gets in the game.
5. Cleveland Indians- Poor Cleveland, I can't even say much more than that. This is like Major League but you know with no real chance of actually winning something.
Al West
1. Oakland A's- They had one of the best offeasons albeit quiet. Their division rivals all got worse by losing key players or losing out on key free agents. They have a young team and their catcher is sneaky good.
2. California Angels- I refuse to call them by anything other than that because that's what they are to me. I attended an Angels game when Wally Joyner was playing for them. They have a better pitching staff than the Rangers. Still they will suck after not upgrading at any offensive position.
3. Texas Rangers- They Fucked Up. Not only could they not sign their best Free Agent, they upset their Franchise face and signed a guy who is only good in contract years. They have some good young guys but Feliz, Wilson, and Andrus need to prove it to me that they can continue their uptick from last season. They still upgraded their catcher position which was a glaring problem last season, but is Napoli(who might not catch at all), and Torreable really that great of an upgrade. I will say if Brandon Webb is healthy, they might be better. I just forsee a freefall for Colby Lewis especially.
4. Seattle Mariners- They. Still. Cannot. Hit. King Felix will be gone by July and they will be the worst team not named the Cleveland Indians. Another sad summer in Seattle. Ichiro might also demand a trade if they cannot compete.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
NFL and NFLPA Headed to Counsoling
According to an article from yahoo sports, the NFL and the NFLPA have apparently agreed to resume talks about a new collective bargaining agreement. To make matters even more hopeful, both sides have agreed to mediation. What is this we're seeing? Signs of maturity from both sides? Realizing that making sure they get a deal done and don't alienate the fans is more important than that extra billion dollars that they're fighting over.
Nah, they probably just realize that there won't be that extra billion to bicker about if there isn't a season next year. Nonetheless, this is really the first glimmer of hope that we have seen regarding the progress of the new collective bargaining agreement since the owners opted out of the current one.
Will mediation do any good though? I think so. Mediators are great at laying out the wants of both sides and finding places to give and take. The biggest challenge of this is going to be the people on the two sides. Just like the clip I posted, yeah I know, not very journalistic of me, but funny nonetheless, these are two sides that are willing to fight it out tooth and nail to get what they want. I mean, during the last rounds of talks, things did, allegedly, get a little bit touchy.
It will be good for both of these sides to have somebody saying out loud, "if you want to get something done, then you're going to have to compromise." Something the fans, and some of the players, have been saying for a long time. I'm sure there will be many more updates regarding this over the coming weeks. Let's hope that there is something productive to talk about. As for now, looks like both sides have finally found those "big boy pants" and pulled them out of the dresser. We'll see if they are now willing to walk around in them
Nah, they probably just realize that there won't be that extra billion to bicker about if there isn't a season next year. Nonetheless, this is really the first glimmer of hope that we have seen regarding the progress of the new collective bargaining agreement since the owners opted out of the current one.
Will mediation do any good though? I think so. Mediators are great at laying out the wants of both sides and finding places to give and take. The biggest challenge of this is going to be the people on the two sides. Just like the clip I posted, yeah I know, not very journalistic of me, but funny nonetheless, these are two sides that are willing to fight it out tooth and nail to get what they want. I mean, during the last rounds of talks, things did, allegedly, get a little bit touchy.
It will be good for both of these sides to have somebody saying out loud, "if you want to get something done, then you're going to have to compromise." Something the fans, and some of the players, have been saying for a long time. I'm sure there will be many more updates regarding this over the coming weeks. Let's hope that there is something productive to talk about. As for now, looks like both sides have finally found those "big boy pants" and pulled them out of the dresser. We'll see if they are now willing to walk around in them
Monday, February 14, 2011
Peter Forsberg Officially Retires
In another blow to the Colorado Avalanche, Peter Forsberg announced his retirement from the NHL today. He played only two games with the Colorado Avalanche in his latest attempt at a comeback.
Forsberg played well in the two games he played with the Avalanche. In Nashville, he had 17:32 of ice time and had two shots on goal. He also took two penalties and was minus-two.
In Columbus he had 17:38 of ice time with one shot on goal. He was minus-two in this game as well.
Before signing on with the Avalanche last week, Forsberg was very clear that he didn't know how things would turn out. He said that he didn't know how good he was going to be, but that he wanted to give it a shot. After two games, Forsberg seems to have decided that he is not up to a level of play that would help his team.
Regardless of the fact that Forsberg failed to return to the level of play he wanted, it is important to note the impact that he had on the game.
For a long time, Forsberg was considered the best player in the NHL, and arguably the world. His unbelievable combination of size, finesse and physical play was something that had only really been seen from the likes of Mario Lemieux. Forsberg was often more dangerous as a hitter when he had the puck.
His vision of the game was, and is, unparalleled. Watching Peter Forsberg play, there were always moments in games where you would watch him make a play and just shake your head really fast in that "did that really just happen" manner.
One could easily argue that Forsberg might be the best passer that has ever played in the NHL. I doubt that people like Joe Sakic, Milan Hejduk, Claude Lemieux or anybody else who was lucky enough to play on a line with Forsberg would say otherwise.
His career stats show how consistent he always was, even when he was fighting off nagging injuries. In 708 games, he has 885 points—249 goals and 636 assists. That boils down to 1.25 points per game.
Another thing that can't be overlooked is that he is plus-238 for his career. Forsberg never really got credit for his defensive abilities, but that plus-minus ratio helps show his versatility. I find it very interesting that he never won a Selke Trophy.
His postseason numbers were just as impressive. In 151 postseason games, Forsberg had 171 points—64 goals and 107 assists. He just couldn't be stopped.
His awards were many. Two gold medals, two Stanley Cups, the Art Ross Trophy (league's top scorer), the Hart Memorial Trophy (league MVP), the Calder Memorial Trophy (rookie of the year) and the Bud Light Plus-Minus award in 2003. In addition to these honors, Forsberg was a seven-time All-Star and a three-time First Team All-Star.
My hope is that the NHL will not hold his injuries against him when looking to induct him into the Hall of Fame. His value and ability as a player are unquestioned. The only question that should be asked about his numbers is, "Can you imagine how scary these numbers would be if he had never been injured?" Yet the injuries that cut short his brilliant career may keep him out. To me, that would be tragic.
Nonetheless, Peter Forsberg is a remarkable man and a fantastic player. His career was tragically short but immensely wonderful in what he managed to accomplish. His love for the game is unquestioned, and he is adored and respected by hockey fans around the world. He knows where he stands now and is saying a final farewell.
So from me and hockey fans everywhere, thanks for the amazing memories, Foppa. You will never be forgotten.
Forsberg played well in the two games he played with the Avalanche. In Nashville, he had 17:32 of ice time and had two shots on goal. He also took two penalties and was minus-two.
In Columbus he had 17:38 of ice time with one shot on goal. He was minus-two in this game as well.
Before signing on with the Avalanche last week, Forsberg was very clear that he didn't know how things would turn out. He said that he didn't know how good he was going to be, but that he wanted to give it a shot. After two games, Forsberg seems to have decided that he is not up to a level of play that would help his team.
Regardless of the fact that Forsberg failed to return to the level of play he wanted, it is important to note the impact that he had on the game.
For a long time, Forsberg was considered the best player in the NHL, and arguably the world. His unbelievable combination of size, finesse and physical play was something that had only really been seen from the likes of Mario Lemieux. Forsberg was often more dangerous as a hitter when he had the puck.
His vision of the game was, and is, unparalleled. Watching Peter Forsberg play, there were always moments in games where you would watch him make a play and just shake your head really fast in that "did that really just happen" manner.
One could easily argue that Forsberg might be the best passer that has ever played in the NHL. I doubt that people like Joe Sakic, Milan Hejduk, Claude Lemieux or anybody else who was lucky enough to play on a line with Forsberg would say otherwise.
His career stats show how consistent he always was, even when he was fighting off nagging injuries. In 708 games, he has 885 points—249 goals and 636 assists. That boils down to 1.25 points per game.
Another thing that can't be overlooked is that he is plus-238 for his career. Forsberg never really got credit for his defensive abilities, but that plus-minus ratio helps show his versatility. I find it very interesting that he never won a Selke Trophy.
His postseason numbers were just as impressive. In 151 postseason games, Forsberg had 171 points—64 goals and 107 assists. He just couldn't be stopped.
His awards were many. Two gold medals, two Stanley Cups, the Art Ross Trophy (league's top scorer), the Hart Memorial Trophy (league MVP), the Calder Memorial Trophy (rookie of the year) and the Bud Light Plus-Minus award in 2003. In addition to these honors, Forsberg was a seven-time All-Star and a three-time First Team All-Star.
My hope is that the NHL will not hold his injuries against him when looking to induct him into the Hall of Fame. His value and ability as a player are unquestioned. The only question that should be asked about his numbers is, "Can you imagine how scary these numbers would be if he had never been injured?" Yet the injuries that cut short his brilliant career may keep him out. To me, that would be tragic.
Nonetheless, Peter Forsberg is a remarkable man and a fantastic player. His career was tragically short but immensely wonderful in what he managed to accomplish. His love for the game is unquestioned, and he is adored and respected by hockey fans around the world. He knows where he stands now and is saying a final farewell.
So from me and hockey fans everywhere, thanks for the amazing memories, Foppa. You will never be forgotten.
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