In an interesting Sports Illustrated piece, Peter King talks with Tom Brady about the knee surgery and what lies ahead on and off the field.
SI Article
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Ortiz and the number 3 spot
David Ortiz went 0 for 12 against the Mets this weekend with eight strikeouts and left sixteen runners on base. His average is now .195 and his slugging is .299. The Sox need to take him out of the number 3 spot now. They cannot afford to leave him there with these numbers.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Nick Johnson to Red Sox?
According to ESPN's Peter Gammons, the Washington Nationals have offered to trade Nick Johnson to the Red Sox for Manny Delcarmen.
Nick Johnson/Manny Delcarmen Swap
Even though the Red Sox seemingly have a ton of depth in their bullpen, I'd rather keep it that way. While Nick Johnson has had a fantastic 2009 and would allow the team more defensive flexibility, he has a history of injury concerns. If the Sox were to trade for Johnson, it would also signal the front office's belief that the end is near for Big Papi. I am still holding out hope for the resurgence of Papi. Regardless, though, Ortiz makes $12.5 million and will not be used in a utility role making that much money. Due to his declining production, I don't see a team trading for him, either.
This trade is unlikely to happen.
Nick Johnson/Manny Delcarmen Swap
Even though the Red Sox seemingly have a ton of depth in their bullpen, I'd rather keep it that way. While Nick Johnson has had a fantastic 2009 and would allow the team more defensive flexibility, he has a history of injury concerns. If the Sox were to trade for Johnson, it would also signal the front office's belief that the end is near for Big Papi. I am still holding out hope for the resurgence of Papi. Regardless, though, Ortiz makes $12.5 million and will not be used in a utility role making that much money. Due to his declining production, I don't see a team trading for him, either.
This trade is unlikely to happen.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Patriots Schedule Analysis Part I
I am sure that a lot will change between now and September, but here are my thoughts on the first four games of the season as of late May.
September 14, vs. Buffalo-This is sure to be a high-intensity game given that it will be the season-opener on Monday Night Football and will feature the return of Tom Brady and the debut of Terrell Owens as a Bill. Although the Bills have made some changes this off-season that should improve their team, I do not see it being enough for them to come into Foxborough and beat the Patriots in Week 1. Plus, Dick Jauron is still the coach in Buffalo.
September 20, at New York Jets-The departure of Brett Favre and the arrival of Mark Sanchez should bode well for the Jets in the long-run, but I do not see the Jets being a contender this year. Their roster simply has too many holes and I think Sanchez will have a rough rookie year transitioning to the NFL. This should be a relatively easy win for New England.
September 27, vs. Atlanta-Even with the addition of Tony Gonzalez, it will be difficult for the Falcons to repeat the success they had in 2008. The Falcons are a good team, but I just do not see them coming up to New England and beating the Patriots.
October 4, vs. Baltimore-The Ravens will also find it difficult to achieve the same level of success that they had in 2008. In the off-season, Rex Ryan left to become head coach of the Jets and brought linebacker Bart Scott and safety Jim Leonhard with him to New York. It will be interesting to see if the vaunted Ravens defense can still continue to play at the same level. On the offensive side, Baltimore needs some more play-makers as Derrick Mason is not getting any younger. Still, this will not be an easy win for the Patriots, but it still should be a win.
September 14, vs. Buffalo-This is sure to be a high-intensity game given that it will be the season-opener on Monday Night Football and will feature the return of Tom Brady and the debut of Terrell Owens as a Bill. Although the Bills have made some changes this off-season that should improve their team, I do not see it being enough for them to come into Foxborough and beat the Patriots in Week 1. Plus, Dick Jauron is still the coach in Buffalo.
September 20, at New York Jets-The departure of Brett Favre and the arrival of Mark Sanchez should bode well for the Jets in the long-run, but I do not see the Jets being a contender this year. Their roster simply has too many holes and I think Sanchez will have a rough rookie year transitioning to the NFL. This should be a relatively easy win for New England.
September 27, vs. Atlanta-Even with the addition of Tony Gonzalez, it will be difficult for the Falcons to repeat the success they had in 2008. The Falcons are a good team, but I just do not see them coming up to New England and beating the Patriots.
October 4, vs. Baltimore-The Ravens will also find it difficult to achieve the same level of success that they had in 2008. In the off-season, Rex Ryan left to become head coach of the Jets and brought linebacker Bart Scott and safety Jim Leonhard with him to New York. It will be interesting to see if the vaunted Ravens defense can still continue to play at the same level. On the offensive side, Baltimore needs some more play-makers as Derrick Mason is not getting any younger. Still, this will not be an easy win for the Patriots, but it still should be a win.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Brady doing well
On "Patriots Today," Tom Brady said that he is "feeling great." This is, of course, expected and he should be ready to go when Week 1 rolls around. After the reports that surfaced following his surgery, it is good to hear Brady himself say he is doing well.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Red Sox to trade for Victor Martinez?
According to Ken Rosenthal of FoxSports.com, the Red Sox are contemplating a trade for Victor Marintez.
V-Mart to Red Sox?
I would definitely support a trade for Victor. Although I think David Ortiz will bounce back from his awful start, the Red Sox front office shouldn't expect another AL MVP caliber season from him ever again. Ortiz has turned into a 25 HR, 90 RBI player at best. In order to have a successfully functioning offense, we need more production than that from the #3 hitter in the lineup.
With the acquisition of Martinez, it would help give off days to three specific players: Varitek, Lowell and Ortiz. Martinez would be able to play both catcher and 1B, giving some much needed rest to Varitek. If V-Mart spent a game at 1B, it would allow Youkilis to shift over to 3B and give Lowell's hip a day off, too. Of course, Martinez could also give Ortiz a rest from DHing.
While I would like the Sox to acquire a player of Martinez's caliber, the Red Sox should not forfeit the farm system to do so. I am okay with trading Clay Buchholz, Daniel Bard, and a second-tier offensive player. Trading Buchholz, Michael Bowden and Lars Anderson, however, would simply be too much. Theo and the front office greatly value their developing players and will not be pushed around. Unless a deal is there at the right price, the Red Sox will pass. The farther the Indians fall out of contention, the more leverage the Red Sox gain.
With all of this said, the Indians have to be willing to trade him. As Rosenthal notes, the Indians are still trying to win this year and are wary of losing their fanbase for next season as well.
With Martinez under control through 2010, I think a trade is unlikely this year. By holding off, the Red Sox give their farm system another year to develop, enabling the front office a better understanding of the talent these prospects possess.
I think the Red Sox have enough depth in their lineup that the David Ortiz problem can be fixed internally. If Ortiz does not bounce back, the Sox will be forced to push him down in the order. This would likely result in Jason Bay hitting 3rd, and Ortiz hitting 5th. After seeing what Bay has done so far this season, this may be the best move for the team regardless of whether or not Ortiz begins to swing the bat.
V-Mart to Red Sox?
I would definitely support a trade for Victor. Although I think David Ortiz will bounce back from his awful start, the Red Sox front office shouldn't expect another AL MVP caliber season from him ever again. Ortiz has turned into a 25 HR, 90 RBI player at best. In order to have a successfully functioning offense, we need more production than that from the #3 hitter in the lineup.
With the acquisition of Martinez, it would help give off days to three specific players: Varitek, Lowell and Ortiz. Martinez would be able to play both catcher and 1B, giving some much needed rest to Varitek. If V-Mart spent a game at 1B, it would allow Youkilis to shift over to 3B and give Lowell's hip a day off, too. Of course, Martinez could also give Ortiz a rest from DHing.
While I would like the Sox to acquire a player of Martinez's caliber, the Red Sox should not forfeit the farm system to do so. I am okay with trading Clay Buchholz, Daniel Bard, and a second-tier offensive player. Trading Buchholz, Michael Bowden and Lars Anderson, however, would simply be too much. Theo and the front office greatly value their developing players and will not be pushed around. Unless a deal is there at the right price, the Red Sox will pass. The farther the Indians fall out of contention, the more leverage the Red Sox gain.
With all of this said, the Indians have to be willing to trade him. As Rosenthal notes, the Indians are still trying to win this year and are wary of losing their fanbase for next season as well.
With Martinez under control through 2010, I think a trade is unlikely this year. By holding off, the Red Sox give their farm system another year to develop, enabling the front office a better understanding of the talent these prospects possess.
I think the Red Sox have enough depth in their lineup that the David Ortiz problem can be fixed internally. If Ortiz does not bounce back, the Sox will be forced to push him down in the order. This would likely result in Jason Bay hitting 3rd, and Ortiz hitting 5th. After seeing what Bay has done so far this season, this may be the best move for the team regardless of whether or not Ortiz begins to swing the bat.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Trade for Derrick Burgess?
According to ESPN’s John Clayton, the Pats are talking with the Oakland Raiders about a possible trade for Derrick Burgess. Burgess, a two-time Pro-Bowl defensive end for Oakland, would be an OLB in a 3-4. The Raiders are looking to unload Burgess because they are tight against the salary cap and trading Burgess would free up $3.5 million in cap room. Burgess is also in the final year of his contract and it is unlikely that he will re-sign with the Raiders. If he comes to New England, Burgess would fill arguably the biggest hole on the roster at OLB and would provide a much-needed pass rush. The downside is that Burgess has had some injury concerns in the past (he missed almost half of last season) and there are questions about him transitioning to a 3-4. Still, I would love to see the Pats pick up Burgess in exchange for an early second-day pick, most likely a third-rounder.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Laurence Maroney Video
This can't be real, but it is still a good video with Patriots running back Laurence Maroney.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Free website to watch NHL Playoff games
If you do not get Versus or another network on your TV, this is a great FREE website to watch all of the NHL Playoff games.
Hockey Webcasts
Hockey Webcasts
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Monday, May 11, 2009
Daniel Bard is called up from Pawtucket
The Boston Red Sox called up pitcher Daniel Bard from Pawtucket yesterday, May 10th. Javier Lopez was designated for assignment.
Daniel Bard is known for a fastball that comfortably sits in the 96-98 MPH range, and tops out around 100 MPH. His secondary pitches are average but improving. It will be interesting to see how often, and in what situations, the Red Sox pitch him. He could potentially become Jonathan Papelbon's setup man by season's end.
Sox Prospects has profiled him here as well:
Daniel Bard Profile
Daniel Bard is known for a fastball that comfortably sits in the 96-98 MPH range, and tops out around 100 MPH. His secondary pitches are average but improving. It will be interesting to see how often, and in what situations, the Red Sox pitch him. He could potentially become Jonathan Papelbon's setup man by season's end.
Sox Prospects has profiled him here as well:
Daniel Bard Profile
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Bill Parcells Coors Light Commercial
Here is a classic Coors Light commercial featuring former Patriots coach Bill Parcells:
Saturday, May 9, 2009
David Ortiz can't hit a HR to save his life!
David Ortiz has now gone 113 ABs without a HR. His BA sits at a disappointing .221. Elrey and I were recently discussing whether we think Big Papi was a steroid and PED user or not. It is worrisome when you hit 54 HRs in 2006, 35 in 2007, 23 in 2008, and can't hit a lick in 2009.
Maybe David Ortiz should consider another sport?
Maybe David Ortiz should consider another sport?
Friday, May 8, 2009
Patrick Chung Blocking
Chung (#15) lays out two Michigan offensive linemen during an interception return.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Manny Ramirez tests positive for PEDs
According to ESPN.com: Major League Baseball announced Thursday that Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Manny Ramirez has been suspended for 50 games for violating its drug policy.
The entire article can be read here:
Manny tests positive for PEDs
The entire article can be read here:
Manny tests positive for PEDs
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Tyrone McKenzie out for season
Patriots linebacker Tyrone McKenzie, a 3rd-round draft pick out of South Florida, is out for the season with a torn ACL in right knee. He was injured while participating in drills during the team’s rookie minicamp last weekend in Foxborough. McKenzie figured to vie for time with Tedy Bruschi and Gary Guyton at inside linebacker next to Jerod Mayo, meaning that the Pats may look to bring in another player to the mix at the position.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Sox 5 for 5, but what is Chamberlain's deal...?
With tonight's win at Yankee Stadium, the Red Sox have now won all five contests against the Yankees this year.
More importantly, though, what is the deal with Joba Chamberlain? If he thinks he's developing a reputation as somebody who guys are scared to hit against, he's wrong. Throwing at Jason Bay, after he had previously homered, was blatant and bush league. If he thinks it will help to fire up his team, he's wrong again. Simply stated: if you are not motivated to play in the Red Sox/Yankees rivalry as soon as you walk onto the field, you shouldn't be wearing the Red and Blue or the Pinstripes. The Yankees don't need Joba throwing at players and further motivating the Red Sox.
If Joba was throwing at Bay in order to instigate a brawl, he need only watch this video:
Joba better hope the Red Sox don't retaliate later in the season. We all know what happens when the Red Sox participate in a rumble: they go on to win Championships.
More importantly, though, what is the deal with Joba Chamberlain? If he thinks he's developing a reputation as somebody who guys are scared to hit against, he's wrong. Throwing at Jason Bay, after he had previously homered, was blatant and bush league. If he thinks it will help to fire up his team, he's wrong again. Simply stated: if you are not motivated to play in the Red Sox/Yankees rivalry as soon as you walk onto the field, you shouldn't be wearing the Red and Blue or the Pinstripes. The Yankees don't need Joba throwing at players and further motivating the Red Sox.
If Joba was throwing at Bay in order to instigate a brawl, he need only watch this video:
Joba better hope the Red Sox don't retaliate later in the season. We all know what happens when the Red Sox participate in a rumble: they go on to win Championships.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Patrick Chung Coin Toss Video
This is a classic video featuring Pats safety Patrick Chung. I love the reaction of the Purdue guys. Chung is #15, on the far left, talking with the referee.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
There goes slimy...
The Boston Celtics defeated the Chicago Bulls 4-3 to move onto the Eastern Conference semifinals. This series will go down as "the greatest series not to have a trophy awarded at the end of it."
Brad Miller, a.k.a. "slimy" or "cry-baby" was a whining pest the whole series. Tommy-Gun (and everyone else in Boston) was happy when he fouled out towards the end of Game 7.
I would like to tip my cap to Vinny Del Negro and the coaching job he has done. The Bulls put up quite a fight.
The Celtics move on to face the Orlando Magic in the next round. Expect a large dose of Dwight Howard and Rashard Lewis.
Brad Miller, a.k.a. "slimy" or "cry-baby" was a whining pest the whole series. Tommy-Gun (and everyone else in Boston) was happy when he fouled out towards the end of Game 7.
I would like to tip my cap to Vinny Del Negro and the coaching job he has done. The Bulls put up quite a fight.
The Celtics move on to face the Orlando Magic in the next round. Expect a large dose of Dwight Howard and Rashard Lewis.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Great E-Mail
This has to be one of the greatest e-mails of all-time. A reader sent this to Bill Simmons after the Patriots defeated the Chargers 38-14 in Week 2 of the 2007 season:
"Just thought you'd be curious as to the Super Duper Triple Secret 15 Scripted Plays that Norv Turner kept locked in a hermetically sealed vault guarded by the Secret Service, as reported by Andrea Kremer, a script so secret that he'd only tell his players right before the game: Here are the 15 plays of sheer offensive genius:
"1) Throw interception to Colvin left
"2) Run Tomlinson off left tackle for 2 yards
"3) Throw incomplete pass down the right side to Davis
"4) Throw left to Gates short of the first down
"5) Punt
"6) Run Tomlinson off left guard for 2 yards
"7) Run Tomlinson off left guard for 8 yards
"8) Run Tomlinson off right guard for 2 yards
"9) Run Tomlinson up the middle for 4 yards
"10) Sweep Tomlinson right for minus-1 yards
"11) Throw left to Jackson for 14 yards
"12) Get sacked by Colvin, and fumble
"13) Run Tomlinson off left guard for 3 yards
"14) Throw right to Tomlinson for 6 yards
"15) Run Tomlinson off left guard for 0 yards
"Play 16 was a punt. Norv's offensive genius is just stunning, I'm amazed the Patriots survived that game."
Original Article
"Just thought you'd be curious as to the Super Duper Triple Secret 15 Scripted Plays that Norv Turner kept locked in a hermetically sealed vault guarded by the Secret Service, as reported by Andrea Kremer, a script so secret that he'd only tell his players right before the game: Here are the 15 plays of sheer offensive genius:
"1) Throw interception to Colvin left
"2) Run Tomlinson off left tackle for 2 yards
"3) Throw incomplete pass down the right side to Davis
"4) Throw left to Gates short of the first down
"5) Punt
"6) Run Tomlinson off left guard for 2 yards
"7) Run Tomlinson off left guard for 8 yards
"8) Run Tomlinson off right guard for 2 yards
"9) Run Tomlinson up the middle for 4 yards
"10) Sweep Tomlinson right for minus-1 yards
"11) Throw left to Jackson for 14 yards
"12) Get sacked by Colvin, and fumble
"13) Run Tomlinson off left guard for 3 yards
"14) Throw right to Tomlinson for 6 yards
"15) Run Tomlinson off left guard for 0 yards
"Play 16 was a punt. Norv's offensive genius is just stunning, I'm amazed the Patriots survived that game."
Original Article
Patriots acquire Alex Smith
The New England Patriots acquired TE Alex Smith from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for an undisclosed 2010 draft pick.
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