The Greates Golfer
September 3, 2007
I remember watching Jack Nicklaus win the 1986 Masters at the age of 40 and think that was the greatest golf could produce. It was a tremendous feat and Nicklaus was great. Of course, Tiger was just 11 and it would be ten years before he would join the tour. That was then and this is now.
When Tiger joined the Tour, I was skeptical if anyone could beat the hype that followed him. I have little to be skeptical about anymore. He has proven over and over that when he comes to a tournament, his intentions are to win. He doesn't just show up and he doesn't just want to play good. Tiger wants to win and he accepts nothing less then victory. That is the difference between him and some other top atheletes.
Tiger doesn't need to prove that he is one of the greatest golfers of all time, however, his performances show over and over that he is. He is in the hunt again this weekend and it should surprise no one. He has at least another 10 to 20 years to prove to all skeptics that he is as great as Jack.
I have no doubts anymore.
Congrats Brandt Snedeker
January 26, 2007
Brandt shot a 61 on his first round in the Buick Open, which is quite a feat. However, I don't expect to see him winning the tournament. Golf tournaments are 4 rounds long, usually, for a good reason. One round does not mean alot.
Of course, if one round means anything then you would have to wonder about Vijay and Phil, since they both shot over par yesterday. But the first round is just the first step for a long weekend.
I expect to see Vijay bounce back today and Tiger will shoot another 66. Phil will make the cut but at the bottom portion and Brandt Snedeker will get to play this weekend, too. Then on Saturday Tiger will pull away from the pack and chalk up another win on Sunday.
Brandt had a great round but I don't think that is going to be the only highlight in his career. This kid will make more cuts and hopefully he might make a run at one of the majors.
It is nice to root for Serena
January 25, 2007
I never thought there would come a time when Serena Williams would be the underdog, crowd favorite. I thought that she and her sister would rule tennis for a couple of decades. Somewhat like Steffi or Chris or Martina. However, the two somewhat fell off the top of the circuit though Serena has won 8 grand slams and Venus has won 9. They are only 25 and 26 respectively, but people have written them off as has beens.
I would love to see Serena to continue her comeback and I would love to see Venus comeback, since these two are two of the most talented women tennis players I have ever seen. But at this time I will just enjoy watch Serena win the Australia Open for the third time.
Is this the Last Time?
January 23, 2007
Is Parcells really gone? I think he has retired before.
I don't know if I really buy that Parcells is going off into the sunset and not to ever be back on a sideline. I remember when he "retired from the Giants". Then he retired from the Jets. And he then retired from the Patriots. I just don't know if this is the final time he will retire. There are plenty of teams that could bring him back. Please don't forget that Oakland brought back Art Shell from the retirement home.
Parcells is a wonderful football coach but I will be glad when he finally retires. Maybe then TO will go away, too.
The water bottle boy
January 18, 2007
What planet is Michael Vick from? Every earth person knows that water bottles cannot be taken on planes. But Vick seems to not remember that, how can that be?
The Atlanta Falcons do not have a problem because Vick likes to smoke dope, they have a problem because Vick is a dope. A quarterback must be more observant and aware of his surroundings. A quarterback cannot be sacked by an airline employee. This is a ridculous situation.
Michael Vick will never reach his potential as a quarterback because he is trying to win by talent and not using any brain matter. What a wastecake.
Why does Nick surprise you?
January 4, 2007
Why is everyone so surprised that Nick Saban said one thing and did something else? Do we all have that short of a memory that we don't remember what Saban did to MSU or LSU?
I don't mind Saban jumping, I just mind his arrogant manner in which he told everyone that he wasn't going. He must think that everyone is stupid and believes anything that a bigtime coach says. I don't believe a word any bigtime coach says, however, I do appreciate those that tell the truth. All Saban had to say was, "Look I am the Dolphins' coach. At the end of the season I will look at the future. Next question." Yes, that leaves the door open, but the door is open until the position is filled.
Saban just proved that bigtime coaches are not the brightest lightbulbs. Are you really surprised?
I didn't know excuse
October 24, 2006
"I was taking a supplement and didn't know what was in it, therefore, I am not responsible if I tested positive." That is the classic excuse for steroid users. And everyone is to believe that since the person didn't know he was therefore not trying to cheat. Wait a minute why should we believe big, dumb football players but not wimpy, stupid baseball players?
I want everyone to just shut up and get your head out of the sand. Every professional and amateur sports person tries to find an edge that makes them better than their opponent. Of course, this is an ongoing search to keep better than the next professional. Some pros use pure talent and when that is gone they have to retire. While others try to educate themselves in ways that will improve their abilities. Some of the things that the educated ones find are chemical enhancements that look a little shady.
In these grey areas is where the pro has to decide if they want to know more or do they just want to jump into the water. Those that jump in the water, don't want to know what is in it, they just want the results. That doesn't make them any less cupable than the ones who find everything out and then jump in. They are all trying to get an advantage and whether you know what helps you or you don't is irrelevant. They are all playing in the grey areas.
The stupid defense is an attempt at trying to say I am a good guy and I didn't know I was breaking the rules. It is lame and doesn't make the user any less cupable of a steroid user.
The Miami Debacle
October 19, 206
Anyone who believes that Miami did enough in response to the football riot they participated in on Saturday have their head in the sand. With that said, anyone who is surprised with Miami's response is sharing the sand with the Miami fan.
There is no surprise in Miami's unresponse to the riot. Why? Simple, Miami is a football factory and they cannot afford to lose anymore recruits. If Miami would have suspended indefinitely the players involved they would have ruined their reputation among recruits. Miami did just enough of a response, so that their president could pretend that there is a zero tolerance for fighting.
My problem with this is Miami's definition of fighting. Earlier this year in Louisville, Miami stomped on the Louisville logo in the middle of the field. This incident was disgraceful and totally inappropriate. However, under the new rules of zero tolerance for fighting, this incident is acceptable and would not be punished.
Miami has a thuggish mentality about football, and they make no apologies and don't expect any. This is just another example of the bad boys of Miami. There will be more.
Why is Lou good for the Cubs?
October 17, 2006
Why is Lou a good choice as a manager? What is he going to bring to Wrigley Field? How long will he be here?
I am one Cub fan that just doesn't understand why I should be happy with the choice of retread Lou as manager. I watched Lou play baseball for the Yankees. I followed Lou managing the Yankees and the Reds and the Mariners and the Devil Rays. He usually threw bases and hats at umpires. He likes to yell and he can't manage young pitchers to save his team. That is the main reason I don't see him as a manager for the Cubs.
The Cubs have young pitchers and if they had someone that could bring them along like a Giardi, they could be a contender in two years. But Lou will misuse his pitchers and the Cubs will be a mess when they finally fire him.
I don't see this as a good move.
What is Miami going to do?
October 17, 2006
Donna Shalala the president of Miami University won't fire Larry Coker and isn't going to hand out any extra suspensions. Can I ask why? Is it because Miami wants to make sure they don't lose any more games?
The little known Florida International announced yesterday that they dismissed two of the perpertrators of Saturday's brawl from the football team. Also, the other 14 offenders were suspended indefinitely. This response may hurt the team in winning games, but it is a response that sends a clear message, that fighting like common bad boys will not be tolerated. I have to applaud the school and the coach for stepping up and trying to put an end to this behaviour.
Now, do I believe that Miami will send the same message. No way that is a school that embraces their bad attitude history and wants to make sure everyone know they are tough. They may be tough street fighters, but they are poor examples of football players.
Coker has lost the team
October 16, 2006
Larry Coker has a lot of blame in the fiasco of the Miami football team. Please remember that this Miami team uncermoniously stomped on the Louisville logo earlier this year. After that incident why didn't Coker clamp down on stupid behavior?
Coker is a joke of a coach. He is incapable of understanding what to do when young men act like jerks. When people called for Coker's firing, I found it to be silly. That was because they wanted to fire him for the wrong reason. Fans wanted Coker fired because he didn't win every game. I don't find that to be a firable offense, but I do think that incompetence and lack of discipline is a firable offense.
It is time to fire Coker and find someone who can control the Miami thugs. Or we could just eliminate the Hurricanes' football program. Either one is fine with me.
I don't want Lou
October 12, 2006
I decided early in August that it would be best if the Cubs said goodbye to Dusty, and that the Cubs go in a different direction. I am always hoping that direction is to the World Series. But I don't want the Cubs to go in the direction of the old, hysterical, tyrannical manager of Lou Piniella.
I didn't think that Lou was a good fit for the Yankees and I don't think he is a good fit for the Cubs. The Cubs need a manager that can handle young arms and be a little innovative. A Cubs manager needs patience, adaptability, and innovation. I don't think that describes old Lou.
Lou would just be an older Dusty. If the Cubs are to turn it around they don't need to go there. Dusty didn't win and Lou won't either.
It is Sad
October 11, 2006
I remember Lawrence Phillips the running back for the Nebraska Cornhuskers. I also remember that he had problems keeping his temper under control and that noone ever made him responsible for his actions.
I don't blame college football for Phillips being a bully/abuser, however, I do blame them for not making him look in the mirror and face the facts. Osborne claimed that he deserved a second chance and that it was better to keep him on the team then to send him to his own devices. I agree it was better to keep him on the team, but that does not mean you don't make him pay for his actions.
Every time that Lawrence got in trouble for the first time, there were numerous first times, his coach or mentor said, "He needs our help. Let him play football it will teach him how to act." Then when Lawrence didn't preform great and was too much trouble, he was kicked out the door.
I think that people need to relook at what is the good of sports. It is suppose to be an opportunity to make a good life, not a road to destruction. Yes, the man has a responsibility for his own actions. However, please don't be surprised when someone doesn't take responsibility for their actions at the age of 20 if they were never made to own up when they were six.
Responsibility doesn't begin at adulthood. It has to be taught. This is just another sad case of a star athlete allowed to behave badly.
Al what should I do?
October 9, 2006
Steinbrenner called Al Davis yesterday to ask him how he can get back to the World Series. Al's answer was simple, "Go back to the good old days".
George is going to use the Oakland Raiders' motto "drudge up the old guys to get back to the championship". What makes the idoit Yankee fans think that Lou Pinella will bring back greatness? Don't you understand that the Yankees lost because their pitching stunk.
Getting rid of Torre may be a good idea but bringing in Lou is stupid. If the Yankees want to win it is simple. They should go to the Marlins and offer to trade whoever for their young pitching staff. The Yankees also should think of cleaning the clubhouse of players who don't fit the Yankee mold: ARod.
Memo to George, Al Davis' advice has made his team the laughingstock of the NFL. Is that what Yankees want to be?
Letter to the Cubs' Management
October 3, 2006
Dear Cubs' Management: Please get a manager like Joe Giardi.
The Marlins were stupid enough to get rid of the manager of the year, and I think the Cubs should sign him. Joe may be a hard nosed, stubborn manager, but that doesn't preclude him from being able to manage young pitchers and get kids to believe they can win. The Cubs will have a very young staff next year and they need someone who can get them to pitch their best and not overuse them. It was only one year but Joe showed promise in understanding pitchers. This probably has something with being an ex catcher.
Yes, I wanted Dusty and thought he could lead the Cubs, but it didn't work. Let's be adventurous and jump off the cliff and sign Giardi. To be honest the Cubs can't get much worse.
At least I hope not.
More Steroids?
October 2, 2006
If the baseball experts back off of this new steroid revelation, then I will have to believe that the steroids accusations against Barry Bonds is personal.
Barry Bonds has been accused of using steroids because his appearance changed dramatically and he had a relationship that put him six degrees from Balco. There is no hard evidence and Mr Bonds has always maintained that he never took steroids and it was his routine and workouts that resulted in his physical changes. He has said that he heals quickly and that his diet has helped him maintain the body of thirty year old in his forties.
Baseball fans outside of San Francisco have never believed Barry because they maintain that it appears he has taken some chemicals. Fans have demanded that he is a cheater and he should be banned from baseball. Some fans have demanded for a thorough investigation and that all steroid users or cheaters should be thrown out of baseball. That is a heavy order.
Of course, I have always thought that baseball doesn't want to know who took steroids. I have also been one of those who always believed that Barry took steroids, but there isn't much that could be done. And I have always believed that anyone since 1980 could be under the question of whether they were a steroid user. Now most people have to face a dilemma, Roger Clemens has been accused of being a steroid user.
Everyone I have heard talk about this so far have their head in the sand. These people want to put Roger in a different category than Barry and they want everyone to remember these are just accusations. Hey, Barry is accused of being a user, there is no real proof. So as far as I am concerned Roger and Barry are in the same boat. The biggest difference is that Roger is a likable guy and yes Barry is a sullen creep.
If people don't start calling for Roger to come clean, I am going to have to jump the fence and think that maybe Barry is right. "People are just out to get Barry."
What does a suicide attempt person look like?
September 28, 2006
With all this hoopala surrounding TO my one question is: what does a person look like that attempts suicide?
They look like the person next door. They look like your co- worker. They don't have any outstanding features that you can point out. They don't have a sign on them that says "I tried to kill myself".
I am cynical and have a problem believing people who have something to gain by not telling the truth. I also think that TO would be better served by people who care about him not about what they will get from him. Noone in this whole debacle seems to have any credibilty. Parcells looked like an angry buffoon. The PR specialist appeared to be a groupie. And TO was TO, swimming up that river in Egypt "d nile".
I still think TO needs help. I just don't think anyone wants to help him and he is too "man of statue" to ask. This will not end well.
No Trick
September 27, 2006
I can't believe that people would think that TO pulled a fake suicide attempt. I am listening to ESPN radio and about every other caller is saying something like that. Huh? I don't respect much about TO and think he is an egotisical jerk. But suicide is real and it can happen to anyone. TO is human and has problems, he needs help. No attempt whether successful or not is a cry for help. Whether you like him or not, TO needs sympathy not ripped.
Simms is tough
September 25, 2006
Chris Simms is one tough quarterback. No one is going to doubt Simms dedication and drive to make his team a winner. I hope he has not hurt himself in the process in proving this.
People were starting to question Simms heart, since he has started off so poorly this season. However after playing with a ruptured spleen, it will take a long time for anyone to question his drive. Simms actually helped put the Bucs up before they lost a close one to the Panthers.
Too bad for Simms that it will be awhile before he will get to do what it appears he loves to do. Hope he gets back in perfect health, soon.
Notre Dame not in the top 10
September 18, 2006
Thank goodness that some voters came to their senses and didn't leave Notre Dame in the top 10. However, there is still plenty of time for the overzealous voters to put Notre Dame back in a BCS game. That is the joke about the BCS. Notre Dame is highly overrated but the BCS doesn't care, because their fans will pay to watch them in a big bowl game. Therefore, it is imperative for the BCS to make sure they give Notre Dame a big bowl payoff.
Larry Coker needs to pack his bags. I didn't think he would lose, and in a way I was right, he didn't lose he got blown out. Miami was more demolished and embarrassed than the Oakland Raiders. Larry Coker won't be in Miami much longer. He lost to a team that no one respects and considers a tier 2 team. Miami fans know that they belong in the top 10 and they aren't even ranked this week. Someone will pay for that disrespect.
Oklahoma should be embarrasssed by their lack of concentration to finish their game. The Sooners should have beat the Ducks. Tell me who wants to be known as a Duck? The Sooners are a good team, however, they let down after two bad calls. Football players have to forget about bad calls and continue to play. If not they get beat like the Sooners. Too bad, but it was fun to see the Ducks beat the powerhouse Oklahoma for the first time.
Bush took money???
September 16, 2006
Reggie Bush and his family took $100,000 in gifts and such while he was still in college. Oh, you got to be kidding. I thought this story was broke right before the Heisman announcement last November. This is an old story and will never amount to anything.
It will never matter to the NCAA if Reggie's gifts were loans or legal. The NCAA doesn't want to punish Bush, USC or anybody else in this case, for that matter. This incident will be swept under the rug as though nothing ever happened. Enough people will be paid to shut up and Reggie will keep his stats and Heisman trophy.
College infractions are always about semantics and this will end up being about the difference of a loan and a gift. These were all loans. Since everyone knew that Reggie would have enough money to repay them.
Jeter is not the MVP
September 13, 2006
Why are the "experts" touting Jeter as an MVP this year? If you put Jeter with his stats this year on any other team, no one would be touting him as MVP. They would be saying what a nice player he is.
Jeter is only getting attention because he plays in NYC. Jeter is only second in batting average to someone, Joe Mauer, who has 90 less at bats. However, Mauer has only 2 less homeruns and 30 less hits but has a better slugging and on base average. Jeter leads in no hitting statistics, but people say he is a great leader. Huh, this is most valuable player, not most valuable leader. So, what is it that makes one think that Jeter is a canidate above Jeramie Dye, David Ortiz or Justin Morneau?
Jeter plays on a team with Giambi, ARod and Abreu who all have good statistics. MVP is supposed to be a player whose statistics make him superior to his teammates and to all the other players. Derek is having a good year but this is not an MVP year.
A Hard hit
September 11, 2006
Trent Green slid, slammed his head on the ground and lost consciousness. Was it a clean or dirty hit? I don't think there are many dirty hits in football, simply because all hits are suppose to stop and knock the opposing player out. Pro football is not for little boys who cry when they get a cut.
I think that most of the rules that have been changed to protect the quarterback have overprotected the pansy qb and made the defense tacklers out to be the bad guys. Defensive players are suppose to stop and take the ball away from the offense, that is their job. Why is there this silly sliding rule for quarterbacks? It is totally slanted to let the qb get more yardage than they actually attain. Yes, players can get hurt when the defense tackle, but that is pro football.
What an idiot
September 7, 2006
Why are parents such idiots? There are plenty of stories of parents losing control about their child's game. In Connecticut a parent took a baseball bat to coach's head because his child was going to be disciplined. And now we have a parent blind side tackling a kid on a football field. Huh in what universe is this acceptable behavior?
I have heard the arguments that the parent was protecting his child. The other child was playing dirty by blind siding the child. For all the excuses I say, who is the adult here? Do adults understand the difference between game and reality?
My mother wouldn't let me watch too much tv, whatever too much is, because she didn't want me to confuse reality. She was always reminding me that tv was make believe. She would also remind me that baseball games were just that, games not reality.
So, why do parents have so much trouble discerning what it means to protect a child and what it means to be a wacko wrapped up in the make believe of sports. Sports are games and parents need to get a prospective and make sure we teach our children how to differentiate what is real.
There is no good excuse for a grown man to whack another person's child, just because he thought he was playing the game unfair. Guess what. People play unfair. And if we let any parent come down and beat the ever loving crap out of everyone that made a cheap shot, there wouldn't be time to play the games. Parents grow up or ban all parents from childrens games.
NFL to get tough on Steroids?
September 6, 2006
The NFL is going to get tougher on drugs. Huh, don't kid yourself. The NFL doesn't want to get tough on drugs. They and the owners like the way things are going right now. They like to say they have a drug policy that keeps the playing field level, but remember it is the teams that supplies the drugs for football players.
In baseball it has always been the private trainers who are the culprits that give bad advice and steroids to their clients. The clients, the baseball players, have made the choice to hire them and take their bad advice. In football it is the team physicians that are perscribing the steroids and hgh. In football the players are being told by the team that it is in the best interest of the team for the player to take the drugs. Can we see a problem here?
Football doesn't want to get rid of steroids or hgh because they are what allow players to make their remarkable recoveries. Don't be fooled by the talk coming from the NFL, they are not strengthening their drug policies. The policies will never be strengthened because it doesn't make business sense to do so.
Steroids and hgh are in professional sports and they are here to stay. The NFL is trying to figure out how to spin it so that there is still an appearance that they are the good guys. Just get used to drugs.
How can they be this bad?
August 30, 2006
The Cubs are awful. The past two games against the Pirates are just a showcase of how awful they are. How did it get this bad? Is it Dusty's fault? Is it the incompetent players? Or the young pitchers?
There are no answers but last night's game, where the Cubs showed their lack of confidence and threw the game away is hard to watch. Zambrano was pitching very well last night and then he hurried an unnecssary throw to second base and he fell apart. Is this Zambrano's youth? I think he needs to grow up. At times he looks like the best pitcher in baseball and an inning later he looks like a member of the three stooges.
Can these Cubs do anything right? Today's game isn't going any better. This is just an awful and disappointing year.
Jerry upset at leaker
August 29, 2006
Jerry Jones reminds me of the the present administration. He is more concerned with the person that leaked the info that TO had been fined, than with the fact that TO is going to destroy his football team. I just don't get it. Why is he so mad at the leaker? Does it really matter?
For all we know, TO told the media he had been fined. That wouldn't surprise me in the slightest considering the situation. TO needs controversy. It is the controversy that TO lives for and plays for. Without controversy there is no hurdle to jump over.
Football players have to make things up to get themselves to play hard. They don't hate the guys they are playing against, so it is make believe that gets them juiced up. But TO is smarter than that, he gets controversy to swirl around him. The controversy then makes him want to prove something and therefore he plays great. It is just circular.
I understand TO enough to dismiss him as a nuisance, but Jerry Jones yelling about a leaker is just plain ridiculous. Jerry get in reality. If there are no leakers, then there would be no stories and then no one would talk about the Cowboys. Jerry you don't want that. Jerry you want everyone talking about the Cowboys 24/7, and you don't care whether it is good or bad. To Jerry it is all about the dollar and right now the dollars are flowing.
When the leaks stop the money will stop.
HGH in the NFL
August 28, 2006
Gary Wadler prepared a report about the Carolina Panther steroid problem and here is one of the findings. "Several of [the players] were using disturbing, particularly alarmingly high amounts with high dosages for long durations -- some in combinations," said Dr. Gary Wadler. "This wasn't just a passing flirtation with these prohibited substances. When I see [prescriptions] 'renewed five times,' I say, 'What are you trying to accomplish?' "
What do you think they were trying to accomplish? They were trying to win. Let's not forget that in the NFL winning is everything. So if there is a way to get an edge, everyone has to do it. Let me say that I am not surprised. Remember that the NFL has a history of former players developing horrible side effects from their steroid use.
So, why are people not up in arms about this steroid story? Why aren't people wanting to take away Carolina's wins? Is it because there is no Barry? Are there no faces to villify?
The biggest problem with the Carolina incident is that it only identified that there is still a problem in football. It did not address the problem or slow it down. HGH is wildly perscribed in professional sports because it promotes repair of injury. But what is not known is how much it is perscribed to those healthy players.
There is a drug problem in all sports.
Is anything going to be done about that?
The kiss of death
August 21, 2006
A football coach that can't sleep after he has made a decision, is in for a long season. ASU's coach named his starting quarterback on Friday. Then he supposedly had problems sleeping and had to talk with everybody, but the cheerleaders, on if it was the right move. My mother always said don't say something you will regret later. Maybe Dirk Koetter should have listened to his mother and kept on thinking about his quarterbacks before he names one the starter. Because on Sunday he changed his mind and named the other kid the starter.
It maybe that this new starter will prove to be the right choice, however, I think that Koetter has a big headache for this season. Flip flopping before the start of the season only translates into disaster.
I wouldn't want to be an ASU fan, today.
Do they have pitching?
August 17, 2006
The Cubs have pitched a bunch of rookies this year. Some have pitched well and some not so good. I have to admit I have preferred using the pitchers from the minors instead of going out and getting some retreads. But the question is are they any good?
Hopefully, by the end of September the Cubs will know whether they have any pitchers to put in a rotation next year with Zambrano. Carlos is the only veteran and he is 25. If Zambrano could cut his walks in half he would be a great number one to build around.
So, will Guzman, Marshall, Marmol, Hill, Mateo or O'Malley be those pitchers that will take the Cubs to the World Series? I sure hope there are four starters among them. I am getting tired of waiting until next year.
Get him help
August 11, 2006
I have heard some silly excuses for someone's behaviour but the excuses being made in Maurice Clarett top the cake. If these people would stop for a second they would realize that this man needs help not excuses.
The silliest thing I heard was that it was the big bad NFL that made Clarett into a convict. The theory goes this way. If Clarett would have been in football then he would have his time filled and wouldn't get in trouble. That must mean that pro football players don't have run ins with the law. Right? Please explain the Bengals.
No the NFL or Ohio State or the people he associated with did not cause Clarett's trouble. Maurice caused his own. He now needs to get people to help him by making him face that fact and maybe he could get a paying job and have a middle class life.
Clarett headlines
August 9, 2006
Maurice Clarett grabbed another headline. Ho hum. How did he get so far off the golden brick road?
Clarett is not an old man but he is also not a mature 22 year old either. He is a mixed up boy that needs alot of help. Will he ever straighten out his life? Does he know he has problems?
No one would believe this story if it wasn't true. This is a very sad life that needs alot of help.
Steroids everywhere?
August 7, 2006
Drug testing and steroids have been a big topic in sports this year. Why do we finally focus on that now? How did we get here from yesterday? Was it Barry Bonds? Was it the Tour de France? Or was it that American matra, win at all cost?
I would like to say that the steroids is all Barry Bonds fault and he should be run out of baseball and never heard of again. However, that is just wrong. Steroids were not put in baseball by Barry Bonds. Cycling is not the only sport that has a drug problem. There are drugs/chemicals in most professional sports today.
Body builders have used steroids for years, because they help with the development of the muscles and if used properly can have winning effects. Football players have used some sort of chemicals to keep them keyed up and to block pain, so that they can win. Baseball players have used uppers and other chemicals to keep them alert and on the edge, so that they can play at least 162 games and go to the playoffs. The common factor is drugs/chemicals can faciltate winning.
American sports fans are all about winning. Most fans want huge feats, such as 61 home runs in a season or 56 game hitting streak. Or fans want to see winners, such as the Yankees who have won too many World Series to count. American's don't embrace losers and parents don't either. So, is the drug problem the fan's fault or is it the parent's fault?
I think it is everybody's fault. Fans, parents, players, owners and money share blame in the drug problems in sports. And it won't get any better if everyone doesn't demand a change.
$72 an Hour isn't normal for a QB?
August 3, 2006
Rhett Bomar was paid around $72 an hour to work for a car dealership in Norman Oklahoma. Now that's a problem? I have to say it is probably one of the best parttime jobs he could have gotten. However, he is a football player who has aspirations for the NFL, why not get an education on what other type of jobs he could have if this NFL stuff doesn't work.
I actually don't see what much the kid did wrong. He reported the income and paid his taxes. Just because he got paid more than most people would, where is the crime? The deplorable NCAA rules committee is a bunch of babies who think their rules make college basketball and college football not professional minor league sports. Sorry college football in Oklahoma is a professional sport. The players should be paid.
The school makes money off of these kids. So what is wrong with letting the young men make money? I know that Rhett is not a great role model and for that matter he may not even be the brightest quarterback prospect. But in this incident I don't see the crime.
Thank you Maddux
August 1, 2006
Greg Maddux always plays hard and with enthusiasm. The Cubs have had some of those most awful years when Greg has pitched for them, but he hasn't said Chicago is a losing town. When the Braves didn't want Maddux and he signed with the Cubs again; he didn't bash Atlanta. Maddux is a grateful player. He has always been a Cub favorite.
If there were more players like Maddux there wouldn't be enough sports stories. But baseball would be a nicer sport. The Cory Lidles of the world keep baseball that nasty sport that everyone talks about.
This Cub fan thanks Maddux for the memories.
Benson or Jones
July 28, 2006
Who will start for the Bears, Cedric Benson or Thomas Jones? As a fan I don't care which one, as long as the Bears win. I think that both will have good years and the Bears will use both.
I like to watch two headed monsters run up and down the field and I am hoping to see that with the Bears. There is nothing that says a team can only use one running back and for some teams two are better than one.
I am looking forward to watching the Bears. Go Bears.
What does Anderson know?
July 27, 2006
Greg Anderson is ready to go back to jail because he is going to keep his integrity. Huh? How does testifying destroy his integrity? This doesn't make sense.
My only guess as to why Greg Anderson doesn't want to testify is that he figures that is best for him. Anderson will be able to go to prison and then be released at some point and then write about the experience. This will provide him a new career since the "trainer days" might be over.
Anderson is not protecting Barry, of course, we know Barry doesn't need protection. Greg is doing this for himself.
Golf is not about the driver
July 24, 2006
Golf is not about how far you hit the little white ball. It is about how many hits does it take for you to get that ball in the hole. If you hit a ball 370 yards but only make par, that doesn't mean you will win in golf.
This past week Tiger proved that golf is about thinking. If he plays the course everyone should wonder just how many majors he will win. Tiger not blasting for the trees was a wonderful sight to watch. It was quite a relief to watch someone understand that to get close to the cup doesn't have to mean driver, wedge. Tiger's accuracy and patience is why he made Sergio look like a fish out of water.
There are a lot of guys out there that can blast the ball. They don't win majors because golf isn't just about length. I watched John Daly on his last hole on Friday, he was at -2 and going to make the cut. Well, old John didn't seem to think it matter whether he made the cut or not. He took out his driver and put two balls out of bounds. What did that prove? It proved that no matter how long he has played, he has never learned golf and he didn't make the cut. Daly will never get past being just a long hitter.
If Tiger has now learned how to play the golf courses, there may be a good chance that he will win at least another 10 majors. And that is probably low balling his wins.
Ozzie needs sensitive training?
June 23, 2006
Ozzie Guillen will have to go to sensitive training for calling Jay a bad name. Huh? Does the clueless commissioner think sensitive training will stop Ozzie, say it like it is, to shut up?
I don't think so. People learn what is appropriate to say and when to say it as a child. Once a person has reached their high school years it is almost impossible to teach them not to swear or not to call people names. It just doesn't happen.
No one ever taught Ozzie that there is an appropriate place to say certain things and then again there are things left best unsaid. This is a failure in his youth, I don't think any amount of sensitivity training is going to effect Mr Guillen. He is a jerk and he will stay a jerk.
The World Cup has been fun
June 20, 2006
I have thoroughly enjoyed watching the World Cup for the past weeks. And I am looking forward to the games this week, though we already know most of those who will advance.
Trinidad is one of my favorites and France and Sweden are two of my disappointments. I would love to see Trinidad beat or tie Paraguay. And I would still like to see if France can play a full game. The French or the Swedes have not played with the fire and speed that is needed to advance.
As of today the Brazilians and Argentines, seem to be the ones to beat. Of course, when they get to elimination anyone can win. This is fun.
Selig says no to HGH
June 16, 2006
Bud Selig doesn't seem determined to clean up baseball no matter what he says. Can you really believe this guy?
Baseball and Selig and all the other owners allowed steroids to go untested for years. Now, the fans are to believe that these grown men knew nothing about the steroid use and they want to get rid of any cheaters. Give me a break.
The owners put their heads in the sand while baseball players got bigger and stronger through modern medicine. Baseball didn't want anything to do with testing for banned substances.
How can you ban a substance if you don't check to make sure no one uses it? Is this on an honor system?
For me I don't think an honor system works when there is so much money involved. Either baseball test for their banned substances or baseball shut up about getting rid of cheaters.
Diamnodbacks don't want to pay Grimsley
June 13, 2006
The Arizonia Diamnodbacks released Jason Grimsley and now they want to reneg on their contract. The contract says if you release a player, the team is liable for what money is left on the contract. However, if another team picks up the player the releasing team is not liable.
I really think this sounds more like someone who is trying to cover their assets.
Baseball officials have known all along that they are employing players who are using and abusing different chemicals. Some of these chemicals are actually supplied by the teams themselves. Now, there is a team who wants to say "that is cheating, so I don't have to pay them." The question is, if Grimsley was a topflight closer would the Diamondbacks be so quick to get rid of him?
Baseball history says, no. I think that the Diamondbacks should shut up about the pay.
This is not about cleaning up baseball, this is only about money.
World Cup is up to hype
June 12, 2006
World Cup talk was the number one topic this past weekend in our house. My niece came home and watched the first two games with me on Friday. Then on Saturday all of us were up at 9:00 to watch England start their climb to the finals. Of course, we did watch most of the other two on Saturday. But my nephew preferred watching England, so he went to play computer games during the other two matches.
On Sunday the first game was okay, but my niece's Columbian boyfriend had to come and watch the Mexico/Iran match. He was rooting hard for Iran, which made my nephew decide he wanted Iran, too. After Mexico went up 3-1 he left the room in disgust.
Today the US plays and since my niece and nephew are in school and the other grownups in the house have to work, I will watch that match alone. Of course, everyone will want my report, which will be the entire discussion this evening.
World Cup talk all week. What could be more fun?
Is the field of play level?
June 9, 2006
Some injured baseball players are permitted to use banned, muscle-building drugs if officials believe it to be a medical need. That means that some recovering players are using testosterone. Does this tilt the level playing field?
I know that there are medical uses of steroids, hgh and other muscle-building drugs. But I think that it should be considered that maybe an injured player is at an advantage, because he is using these drugs. Is this fair?
Maybe this Grimsley episode will make people actually look at drugs in sports. This is not a right and wrong issue, there are many nuances that need to be considered. If the field is to be level the "drug problem" in baseball needs addressed and not just wished away.
A new name in Steroids
June 7, 2006
Jason Grimsley told federal investigators that he used steroids and he named others. Why does this not surprise me?
I think that is because I live in the real world. Only those people, Bud Selig, who live in fantasyland don't understand that steroids are and were prevalent in professional sports. Until there is nothing to be gained by using steroids or other chemicals, drugs will remain in professional sports.
Steroids have legitimate use for people who have had transplants or have asthma. These drugs allow people to live, therefore, steroids are here to stay in the real world.
Will Grimsley's story grow legs and actually get baseball to admit they have a problem? Probably not. But maybe something good will come out of this.
Cubs don't give away pitchers
June 2, 2006
I don't like to hear rumors about the Cubs giving away Kerry, Prior or Maddux. I never liked Maddux leaving the Cubs in the first place.
I have always liked watching Greg pitch. When he first played for the Cubs, he was one of the only highlights to watch. He would give up a run in the first or second inning and then pitch lights out until the eighth. Then the cubs would either give the game away or maybe get lucky and not lose.
Then Maddux left for the south and I was bummed. Now people want to talk about trading him to a contender. I don't want that. And I also don't want to give up on Prior and Kerry.
The only thing good the Cubs can do with trading any of these pitchers is if they get a "Dontrelle Willis" type pitcher. Remember the Cubs traded for Matt Clement and gave away Willis in the process.
Cubs don't give away anymore pitchers.
Why is Roger still in the News?
May 31, 2006
Roger Clemens has learned to play baseball, in the past few years. He used to only know how to pitch, and he is pretty good at that. But in the last few years he has learned how to play baseball executives against each other probably better than anyone to date.
Roger will pitch around 15 regular starts and then he hopes to be in the playoffs. And he will get paid more than most of the regular ballplayers get for an entire season. That isn't bad. For each start there will be a sellout, so the owners will get their money. And Roger will sell merchandise because everyone wants to see the possible last Clemens pitched game. Of course, the way he is going that game may not happen until 2010.
I don't like Clemens, but I have to admire his ability to make money. I already admired his ability to pitch.
The Cubs make me Crazy
May 30, 2006
I have been a Cub fan since I was 6 years old. That is a long time. I have seen them win some fun games. I have seen them lose some horrible games. They have had good years and of course, they have had horrible years. I think they are putting me over the edge this year.
I was very hopeful this year. Of course, there are detractors that say I was delusional. My response is "Cardinal and Yankee fans aren't people, so those comments don't count." The Cubs are much better than the month of May has shown. However, if these Cubs don't follow up with more games like yesterday, I will probably be committed by June 10th.
Cubs play ball.
Is Marco the real deal?
May 29, 2006
Marco Andretti almost won the Indy on his first try. But does that mean he is the real deal?
Marco at the age of nineteen probably knows more about the Indy 500 than sixty year old fans. The Indy is a family tradition. Yes, they haven't fared too well at it. But, they have been there and they have given fans great moments.
I don't think Michael Andretti is ready to retire, but I think his son is ready to compete. Here's hoping that yesterday wasn't a fluke.
I think Marco is going to be a star.
It is painful to be a Cub Fan
May 27, 2006
I don't know why I have not learned that it is too painful being a Cub fan. Watching the Cubs lose really suck.
Yesterday's game was a typical painful experience. The Cubs were winning and Carlos was pitching well. Then Jaque can't find the ball and the game becomes unglued. Yes, they lost in the ninth but it was the ball lost in the sun that was the turning point in the game.
At times, I should know better. But I have the game on again today, hoping for the Cubs to show some sign of a real baseball club.
How did it get so Bad?
May 26, 2006
You have to admit your team are at the bottom of the barrel when they are swept by a triple A team. Actually, I am not sure that the Marlins are a triple A they maybe double A. I just know that the Cubs were awful in that series. Just awful.
The long season gives me a little hope that maybe they can turn this around. I have been a Cub fan for over forty years, so you know I use this logic quite a bit.
Right now there is only thing that is positive about the baseball season. The Royals are worse than the Cubs.
Too PC
May 25, 2006
I live in CT and yesterday I read a story about the high school sport association that made me want to scream. The football committee of the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference passed a silly rule that makes it an offense if a football team wins by more than 50 points. Huh????
This was for high school, not pee wee. And in pee wee they don't even have those kind of rules. I understand people get upset that a coach can run up the score just to prove he is a man, but this is not the way to solve that problem.
High school is suppose to prepare kids to go out in the real bad world and make a life for themselves. Kids have to learn they won't get their dream job by filling out one application. They, also, have to learn as my mother always said, "Life isn't a bed of roses", they have to grow up. This rule does nothing but coddle overprotected kids whose parents don't want to have their kiddies' feelings hurt.
Guess what? It is not working. This is a stupid rule.
Intight is not Throwing At
May 24, 2006
I can't believe all the people who say that if a pitcher throws high and intight, they are throwing at the batter. That is wrong. Pitchers have to throw high and intight to get these armoured ballplayers off the plate.
The plate space belongs to the ball and the bat. The ballplayer who has his hand, arm or whatever in that space are violating "plate space" and they can get hit. That is not the pitcher's fault. That is the batter's. Get out of there.
I wish there were a few, at least not just Roger Clemens, who understands that the ball can travel in the "plate space" and that is not a violation. Most of the pitchers in the league today are afraid they will hit a batter, that is one reason for the increase in home runs.
Pitchers take back the "plate space" from these greedy hitters. It will make a better game.
Are these Yankees for real?
May 23, 2006
The Yankees lost to the Red Sox again? How is that possible when you pay much for a championship team?
People are making excuses for these Yankees, saying that they are all hurt. Huh? Look at who played last night Jeter, Giambi, Damon, Posada, Williams, Rodriguez and Cano, the highly touted "superstar to be". I think these are the players the Yankees said they were going to use to regain their championship. The every day players are not the problem.
The Yankees problem is the problem all the losing teams have, and that is pitching. If you don't have pitching, it really doesn't matter how many home runs ARod hits in the ninth inning.
The Yankees will be buying a pitcher very shortly, because they figure that is why the Tigers have a better record right now.
Pujols may be the real deal
May 22, 2006
I remember watching Albert Pujols hit in his first season and thinking he was a pretty good hitter. Of course, I probably paid more attention to him than most baseball fans because he played for the Cardinals. My only thought at that time was maybe he won't develop if they keep switching his fielding positions.
The folklore is that if a player doesn't know where he is playing his hitting is not effective. Albert has made that fiction. He has developed into a great hitter.
Pulos could hit 81 home runs this year. But he already is a real star and I still don't like him on the Cardinals.
What a nice problem
May 20, 2006
The Patriots have to figure out who will backup Tom Brady. That is actually a nice problem when you consider that Brady has been one of the best uninjured quarterbacks since he stepped in for the injured Drew.
Will the Patriots have a quarterback sitting on the sidelines who will be able to step in like Brady did. Or will they have one of those veteran QBs like Kerry Collins or Jay Fiedler able to step in and not miss a beat.
I don't know I just have the feeling that whichever way they go, the Patriots will make the right decision.
Interleague is a gimmick
May 19, 2006
I didn't like the idea of interleague and after 10 years I still don't like it. Interleague is a gimmick and a revenue maker.
I am a Cub fan and I really have no desire to see the Cubs play the White Sox at all. Well, if the White Sox get to the World Series then I might want to see them against the Cubs.
I live in Ct. and I have no desire to see the Mets play the Yankees. Okay, that is because one of them has to win. These silly games of playing supposedly town rivals was maybe fun for 10 seconds, time up.
If MLB wants teams to play their rivals then put all the teams in one league and have them play each other all the time. This is a silly ploy to make rivals out of teams that are in the same city or state. It doesn't work.
The Cubs arch rival is not the White Sox, it is those no name Cardinals. And surprise, the Yankees arch rival are not the startup Mets, it is those hated Red Sox.
Yes I am excited
May 18, 2006
I know that Kerry won't pitch a complete game today. However, any diehard cub fan has to be excited to see Wood pitch today.
I have thought from the time he struck out all of those Astros that Kerry Wood would be a great Cub pitcher. I know it hasn't been rosey. And I have to listen to Cardinal fans tell me that "DL stands for disabled loser cub pitchers".
Today is a new start and I can only hope for Wood to begin his greatness. I do believe.
Barry gets hit
May 17, 2006
Barry got hit and got a couple of hits, but he did not charge the mound. Huh? Why didn't he go after the pitcher?
Every hitter who gets touched by a ball immediately runs to the mound to smack the pitcher, but not Barry. Is Barry becoming a pacifist in his old age?
I don't think so.
Of course, there are numerous reasons for not running to the mound. The one I like is that he was afraid no teammate would follow him. It really doesn't matter the reason, what matters is that we are still talking about Bonds. I feel like I am watching "Groundhogs Day". Will we get to the end of the movie anytime soon?
Poor TV Scheduling?
May 16, 2006
ESPN decided it would be a great scheduling ploy to broadcast every appearance of Barry Bonds, once he got close to Ruth's number. Huh? Who really wants to see that.
I got tired of that silliness back during the McGuire/Sosa battle. Then I was really bored and didn't want to hear about Bonds, when he was on his pursuit of McGuire's record. Now I turn off the radio or tv, every time someone wants to talk about Bonds. This is stupid.
Who is really interested in seeing Bonds hit home runs, but SF fans? I would find it more interesting to watch Albert Pujols smack the ball around. And I am a Cubs fan.
The Barry chase is poor tv. Good TV would be the Pujols show. Or maybe the Tigers show.
It can get Worse
May 15, 2006
The Knicks want to buy out Larry? Can the Knicks have a worse year?
The resounding answer is Yes. The Knicks as they are put together now do not give any hope that they will be a competitive team soon.
Getting rid of Larry Brown is not the answer. Yes, Larry will not make this team a winner but no coach will.
Isiah Thomas is not the answer as a coach, however, that may be the only way to get rid of Thomas. If Thomas coaches the Knicks next season, the Knicks will have a worse season than last year. And Thomas will be gone by the end of the year.
The Knicks need a total makeover, not just the coach.
Matsui apologizes?
May 13, 2006
I can't understand why it is considered news when Matsui apologized for getting hurt. Is it so foreign for American pro sports to have players that care more about the team than themselves?
Probably.
Americans have players like Gary Sheffield, who is more concerned that he could possibly hurt himself permanently if he kept playing. Or Wood and Prior, who have to go on the DL, so that they will be able to pitch in the future. I have no idea when that "future" is, but it is suppose to be sometime. American players learn to look out for their future. The team is not the part that is stressed.
Matsui comes from a society where they teach the collective is more important than the indivdual. So, why is it shocking that he would apologize?
It isn't shocking. Get used to it.
Matsui is out
May 12, 2006
I don't like Yankee fans because the moment it looked like Matsui was really injured, they google "best left fielders available". The fans don't even wait for the reports, their first and only thought is, we need another superstar.
I don't begrudge the Yankees from spending their money, but could you at least wait a day or so to reflect on what is really needed. Of course, the Yankees will overpay and not get the best deal. But, they will do something and very quickly.
George wasn't happy with the Yankees earlier this week. Can you imagine what he is thinking now?
He is on the hotline screaming "get me Barry Bonds".
You know he is.
Casey Martin I hope you succeed
May 11, 2006
Casey Martin could have had a long career playing on the golf tour, if he hadn't had the circulatory disorder in his leg. He is a decent golfer.
Now, he is going to coach at the University of Oregon and I hope he has a long career there. His determination and dedication will serve him well coaching in college. Here is hoping he will succeed.
Pierre saved the day
May 10, 2006
Juan Pierre picked the ball off the top of the wall last night and saved the day for the Cubs. No, the Cubs still lost, but Pierre's catch kept Rich Hill from being the trivia answer to a stupid Bond's question. That is the only good you can see from this game.
The Cubs can't hit. They can't score. So, please Cubs don't let Barry get a homerun this series. I have to have something to be happy about.
It appears to be a long summer.
Kelvin could be out before he starts?
May 9, 2006
Kelvin Sampson could be fired before he ever coaches a game for IU. Now, that would be another blackeye for Indiana. And of course, I would not care. I like Sampson to a point, but I can't stand Indiana. Anything bad that happens to Indiana University is never enough.
The NCAA is a joke with their rules violations, but if they make life miserable for IU, that is fine by me. Bring on the restrictions.
Why all the Talk?
May 8, 2006
Everyone wants to talk or write about Barry Bonds. Why? He is not on the verge of breaking a record. I can only imagine that these people are too young to remember the real chase.
The only real home run chase was in the summer of 1973 and finished in April 1974. In 1973 there was no 24 news or sports stations, therefore the coverage of the record was radio and the sports page. I don't remember people talking about it non stop. And I don't remember being bantered by stupid non stop talk.
I do remember Hammering Hank. He is the HomeRun King and until Barry gets close to that record I think everyone should just "Shut up and sit down." I liked Aaron because he wasn't a loud, boastful player. And I liked him despite of the fact he never played for my Cubs. He was a good hitter and always enjoyable to watch.
Let's just calm down and if you insist on talking, think of some other subject. Thank you.
Let's get somebody, now
May 6, 2006
I don't jump ship very quickly, but I am fed up with the no offense Cubs, already. I want somebody in the lineup that can bring in Juan.
Yes, I have been a Cub fan for too many years. My brother in law thinks I should be used to all of the losing. Guess what? I am not, and I am not a lovable loser. I want to win. And I want the Cubs to win this year. Not next.
Therefore Cub biggies, make a deal sooner rather then too late.
Offensive??
May 5, 2006
I think I am missing something. The Illni Indian mascot that symbolizes a strong, brave leader is offensive. The Irish mascot that symbolizes a short, prancy, goofball that might be drunk is not offensive.
Hum. I guess I just don't understand.
A good parent
May 4, 2006
There are enough knucklehead parents in professional sports, especially tennis. It is nice to be reminded that not everyone is like that and Earl Woods did that. He was the parent who was a parent.
Parents need to stay out of their kid's profession. They need to be available for the kid to talk and play with them at home. Enough said.
This Can't be True?
May 3, 2006
There is a story that Larry Brown wants Isiah to get him Keynon Martin and Alonzo Mourning. Is this for real?
The Knicks already have too many "overthehill, highpriced, potential stars". Keynon is a serviceable rebounder that can bang inside. But why is he under suspension? Do the Knicks really need another headcase player?
Alonzo has had a good season, but he is 36 years old and physically wearing down. Do the Knicks really need another old man playing for them?
I can't believe that this story is true, except that it is about the Knicks. Knick fans, it may be the next century before the Knicks right themselves from Isiah's and Brown's deals. Maybe you should think of changing your team.
Selig does something right?
May 2, 2006
Bud Selig says that MLB will not have a huge celebration when Barry passes Babe Ruth, because it will only be a number 2 position. So what? ESPN will keep telling everyone when he does. And you will be able to tivo the event as much as you want. Therefore, this event will be well documented and promoted.
I am of at least two opinions on this. One, I really don't think this is the time for the celebration, he will be just number 2. However, when a pitcher reaches that magical 300 wins, there are big celebrations. Also, if Griffey or ARod was the one who was doing this, would Selig do the same thing? I am not quite sure.
Bud Selig is a passive agressive, who has no opinion until he reads it in the paper every morning. This stand by the commish is a typical Selig avoidance decision. He avoids pissing off some fans and advertisers by hiding behind the number two. Will he piss off Barry? There is always that possibility, but what doesn't piss Barry off??
Moises get real
May 1, 2006
Moises Alou said that teams are pitching around Barry, because they don't want him to break Ruth's record. I have to say, that is ridiculous.
Yes, the strategy is to pitch around Barry, but not because of the Ruth's record. Teams pitch around Barry, so that they have a better chance of winning the game.
It is easier to pitch Moises than to pitch to Bonds, history says so. And until it really isn't, Bonds is getting pitched around. Moises is having a good year and Bonds is so, so. The season is one month long.
Any manager worth their paycheck will pitch around Barry until Bonds quits hitting. So, Moises I like you, but it is not about a record, it is about winning today.
Bears being adventurous?
April 30, 2006
I have followed the Bears since Gale Sayers first put on the Bear uniform. I have known bad teams and I have seen good teams. This past year the Bears had a pretty good team and since most of the defense is returning the draft didn't hold many needs. In the past the Bears have needed to draft a whole new team, but this year was different. So, I didn't watch what the Bears were drafting.
This morning I see the Bears drafted a specialist out of Miami. I have to agree with those who say this can only go two ways, boom or bust. But, as a fan, I kinda of like this bold move. At least the Bears have decided to try to be a little less conservative, maybe it will runoff into the offense. And Grossman will have an explosive year.
I said, I was a Bear fan. I can dream can't I????????
Glad to see some smarts in the MLB
April 29, 2006
I have never considered that baseball players use their intelligence to win. But Greg Maddux has shown that applying intelligence to your pitching is just as effective as throwing a 120 mph fastball. Maddux has never been a power pitcher, and as he as aged his fastball is slower.
Maddux thinks before he pitches and that makes the hitter have to think harder, which is Maddux's advantage. Hitting is a memory activity and thinking is sometimes not a good thing. Maddux has already outdueled the Cardinals, who have the most powerful lineup in the National League, twice this year.
However, Delmon Young, the minor league bat thrower, shows that not all ballplayers think before they act. His temper tantrum demonstrates there are problems with entitled ballplayers who have no respect for rules. Rules are not made to be broken and bats are not made to be thrown.
Get the babies out of baseball and let the others play.
Clark a better choice
April 28, 2006
I have heard rumors, that the Cubs have looked at Mike Sweeney and Tony Clark as temporary replacements for Derek Lee. My preference would be for Sweeney, only because he has been a better hitter.
However looking at what is the best fit, I would have to think that Tony Clark is the one the Cubs should get. It shouldn't cost the Cubs that much to attain Clark. Clark is at least playing first base this year, Mike isn't. Both of the players have been in the league for eleven years and Sweeney is a career 300 hitter. However, Sweeney has hit yet this year.
The Cubs just need someone to play for two months, hopefully. Therefore, Clark looks like the best bandage they could apply, if they decide they are going to put one on.
Head or feet first?
April 27, 2006
Michael Barrett was hurt sliding head first. Why is he sliding head first? Aren't his hands his top asset?
According to Dusty, a player chooses to slide by what feels most natural, but Dusty hates head first slides. He considers them more dangerous than feet first slides. The interesting part of that statement is the "more".
Sliding is dangerous. It doesn't matter if it is feet or head, sliding may cause injury. Notice: playing baseball may cause injury. Injury is one of the side effects of playing baseball.
At least, Barrett was playing hard and trying to win. The Cubs don't need players who think about an injury to decide how they are going to play. That just creates poor baseball.
A dream
April 26, 2006
I have been waiting to watch Angel Guzman pitch in the majors for years. Since 2001, the Cubs have proclaimed that Angel is one of the best prospects in baseball. So, a fan waiting for a World Series is always excited to see the next Cy Young or at least Fergie Jenkins on their team.
My dream today is that Angel doesn't get hurt and pitches well enough to get a win. That isn't too much of a dream.
My wish
April 25, 2006
I have a dream. A dream that Carlos Zambrano will find the strike zone every inning. Carlos can strike out 12 players every outing, but if he walks 4 batters he is not going to win most of those games.
So my wish is that Carlos finds the strike zone and stop giving up walks. Walks are bad.
Keith are you serious?
April 24, 2006
In admitting that he doesn't think women belong in the dugout, did Keith Hernandez reveal one of his weaknesses? I take from what Keith was saying, that he is easily distracted and can't keep his mind on the game if a pretty face is around him. Therefore, I would deduce that pitchers would have had better luck against Keith if they had just applied a little lipstick and a dress. The Barry Bonds JLo outfit would probably have made him strike out all of the time.
Keith reminds me of my 14 year old nephew who can't talk after he sees a pretty face. But, of course, he is 14.
A nice story
April 23, 2006
I read a nice story in the NY Times about a high school basketball player who wanted to learn to read more than be the next LeBron. It was a touching and insightful story. This young man, who has potential as a pro prospect, couldn't read or write, though he had made it to his senior year in high school. His story is wrenching of how he grew up in NY city and how he had asked for help but everyone was too busy to listen.
He finally found someone who would listen in his senior year of high school. The prep school he attended that year, tested him and found that he had dyslexia. They reclassified him as a junior and got him help with extra classes. He has learned to read and write and will attend St Johns this fall. I am rooting that he does well, not just on the court but in the classroom.
There are so many stories about people who want to take the easy way to the top and they never make it. It is nice to see a story about someone who took the hard road and made it.
Are the Royals ever going to be competitive?
April 22, 2006
I can't believe that the Royals are really as awful as their record. The Marlins have more wins and they are a triple A team. So, how did the Royals get so bad?
One thing that stands out about these Royals is their roster. They have two 38 year old guys, Reggie Sanders and Matt Stairs, who I thought should have retired three years ago. At least the Marlins are bad, but they are trying to get better by playing young players. Are these Royals trying to get better? Then why not get rid of the old guys and let the young kids play?
Just my thoughts.
The season is not over
April 21, 2006
I have not declared the season over. The Cubs will still win. How? I am not quite sure. This fan, me, is willing them to win.
Yes, Todd Walker is not Derek Lee. However, he has been hitting this season, so maybe he can be a stop gap.
As a Cub fan since the days of Ernie at first and Randy Hundley catching Fergie and Santo at third, I have to believe they will win.
Sweep the Cards for another series. Cubs win??????????
Lets hope it isn't serious
April 20, 2006
The worse thing, for a fan to see, is a player getting hurt. Injuries are a part of all the sports, but only hockey and NY Yankee fans actually root for them.
So today I can only hope that both Derek and Eyre are fine and will be in the lineup in a couple of days.
He is olddddd
April 19, 2006
Does anybody remember that Randy Johnson is 42 and will be 43 by the end of the year?
I never understood why the Yankees thought they had such a great steal when they got Randy last year. Baseball players do not get better after they reach forty.
The Cubs signed Maddux in 2004 and I figured, "Nice to let him finish where he started. And if he wins 10 to 15 games a year that will be helpful." I never thought he would be the number one starter.
Does anyone understand that Maddux is a better pitcher?
A few comparisons: Maddux is 40 years old; Randy is 42. Greg came up in 1986 at the age of 20. Randy came up in 1988 at the age of 25. Greg's career ERA is 3.01 and Randy's is 3.12. Greg has 321 wins while Randy has 265.
It just amazes me that Maddux seems to be overlooked because he is not a power pitcher and not animated. Maddux is just a solid pitcher that will probably pitch another few years with the Cubs. And of course my dream is that he will get a World Series ring.
The season just began
April 17, 2006
The season isn't even a month old and the Yankee fans are already crying and the Met fans are crowing.
A problem living around so many Yankee and Met fans are that those sets of fans are almost as unbearable as Red Sox fans. Actually, I have come to the conclusion that Yankee fans are the worse. I should know, my brother in law is one. Everytime a player makes a bad play he yells, "Send that loser to Columbus."
The problem with Yankee fans are that they complain about every game. There are players that need to be sent to Columbus after one inning. I am surprised that there aren't more Yankee fans on the DL for their constant worrying after each loss. Last year the Yankees started the season losing more than they were suppose to. Yankee fans were ready to fire Torre send Giambi to the minors and basically buy another team. Yet, if I remember correctly they won the division! My advice to the Yankee fans is: take a lude and don't start worrying until at least June.
Met fans are just about as bad. I enjoy listening to them cry when they are bad, which is what they have been recently. But now I don't know how much I will like hearing them crow, like they did in '86. Because, the Mets don't win all that much, they have this 'inferiority complex' to the Yankees, they crow very loudly when they start winning. My one hope is that they pitch the way they should, which is lousy, then my summer will be peaceful to a point. I will just have to hear the Yankees, but I am almost used to that hum.
The Cubs are not finished
April 16, 2006
It bothers me that people have already written my cubbies off for the year, because of the pitchers on the DL. These Cubs of this year will come through. They have actually improved their pitching. Yes, Kerry and Prior are on the DL but heck us cub fans have seen this before. The bullpen is not what it was last year. Last year the bullpen would have the lead or was to keep the game close and low and behold there the ball flew out of the ballpark. The cubs needed relief pitching and they got some. Eyre and Howry have already shown that maybe there won't be as many loses for the cubs this year. And yes Dempster has done okay.
However the biggest change in the cubs this year will be Juan Pierre. I have been a cubs fan for too many years and I don't remember the cubs ever having a real leadoff batter. Juan changes all of this. Juan is a very good leadoff hitter and may prove to have a great career with the cubs. He will be allowed to run and bunt at will. This will finally put bodies on base so that Derek and Ramirez can send them home.
Yes, I am still excited about the season and the new acquisitions are what brings the hope of a pennant. Then of course I am hopeful that Kerry and Prior will pitch in the near future and Carlos will find the strike zone. Maddux looks like he is 34 not 40. So, there are reasons to still play baseball in Chicago.