First things first, I need to apologize for getting this out so late this week, I’ll endeavor to get it done by Wednesday evening or Thursday early morning (west coast time, not your sissy east coast time). This was a short week because I was busy being tired Monday so I got nothing done other then going to the movies and watching some aliens get abused. But on to the football side of things, I had a rusty first week, I basically flipped a coin and went with Oregon, and if it was an MMA fight I would have been right, if we were scoring some kind of football game I was wrong. Also nobody can possibly hold that BYU/Oklahoma game against me, even the most diehard BYU fans didn’t call that one. I had someone try and tell me that they bet on BYU to win, it turns out that person had bet on BYU to beat the spread, and later on I ended up cleaning that person’s puke out of a sink…those two things are not at all related.
BYU’s defense was just much better then I think anyone predicted. Even before Sam Bradford got hurt they didn’t look sharp. In the end BYU’s defense just looked greatly improved from years past (more on that later). Shock I believe was the main feeling everyone had about that game.
This week holds one giant matchup, as well as some smaller games between schools that will look to put themselves on the map this year, normally I would have written about the game between Georgia Tech and Clemson but I just got done watching that game so I can’t retroactively predict who will win, oh well. I’m only going to touch on three games this week, which is kinda cheap of me but don’t be surprised if you a number of upsets this weekend, maybe South Carolina over Georgia, or Vanderbilt over LSU (who was not sharp against Washington last weekend). On to the comments:
“No mention of Bucknell at Duquesne? Pennsylvania is disappointed” – Dan
Oh I mentioned it, to myself, as a game that NOBODY was interested in, not even the state of Pennsylvania. We all know the battle for Pennsylvania happens this weekend when mighty Lehigh takes on Villanova. Also, I want everyone out there to know that Dan is bad at fantasy football and I don’t respect his ability to draft a team.
“I'm very excited that you decided to start these up again. However, you are already 0-1 and you also gained weight? Eat more salads! Lastly, no mention of Notre Dame? And you call yourself a fan...
PS I still think you're neat.” -Cali
I actually lied about the gaining weight thing L sorry. But in my defense I assumed that nobody would care. If it makes you feel any better the boxing trainer at the gym put me through one of the top 5 workouts of my life last night and today I can’t flex my stomach at all. Also Notre Dame is going to get mentioned this week. They looked sharp last week shutting down a team that had one of the better offenses in the country last year. Also I think you’re neat too /wink.
This next comment is about BYU from a huge BYU fan:
“I was totally stunned. I am still totally stunned. Usually my voice is gone by the end of the game. But I was so stunned, no sounds were exiting my mouth, just drool. I was catatonic. It was so awesome though - I could not believe my eyes.
I mean, we gave up 31 points/game over the last 7 games last year, routinely giving up over 350+ yards of offense. We got no big recruits on D. Basically the same personnel. And yet, we held Bradford & Co to 10 points on 96 yards passing for a full half. How????
Well, I've had two days to mull it over - 1) We made a clear philosophy change, and decided to go back to blitzing almost every down. Last year, we gave up the underneath routes and dropped 7 as our basic. I believe it allowed other offenses to get in a rhythm, and demoralized our defense over time. 2) Coach Mendenhall gave up defensive play calling to our D coordinator for the first time. Perhaps that had something to do with it also.
Man, it is serious euphoria in cougar land - lots of milk and cookies parties :-) There were so many hits on the main message board site cougarboard.com, that the site crashed. It was pretty funny.” – Brian
Couldn’t have said it better, let’s see if your boys can stay strong all year.
“I'm so happy. This is the sole source of information on college football for me, but at least it provides me with sufficient situational awareness that I understand the college football conversation around me! Thanks!” – Anonymous
Who the heck is anonymous! On to the games!
Saturday 12 September
#18 Notre Dame at Michigan 3:30PM EST
A week ago I wouldn’t have written about this game, but that was before the Notre Dame fighting Irish shut down Nevada with a great offensive and defensive performance. Don’t be fooled, the Irish should have won that game, but there’s no way that they should have dominated like they did by shutting out Nevada. It’s like me eating healthy on the weekend, there’s no way I’m going to make it a full Saturday without having something bad. The Irish were led by QB Jimmy Clausen who had more touchdowns than incompletions, and he has a heck of a tandem of receivers to throw to in Michael Floyd and Golden Tate.
The Michigan Wolverines in the meantime took on a bowl team from last year in Western Michigan and convincingly stomped them 31-7. Michigan runs the spread offense brought over by coach Rich Rodriguez from West Virginia so you will see a number of guys running all over the place on Saturday (they had four guys attempt more than one pass last weekend) although freshman Tate Forcier (from San Diego) has been named the starter.
Notre Dame’s defense isn’t likely to have another amazing performance when they go play in front of 100,000 people in the Big House at Michigan. That being said it’s going to be as tough as my mom’s Christmas fruitcake for Michigan to stop the vertical passing attack of the Irish, unless it rains. The Irish have a much better offense and defensive secondary, especially with some Michigan starters hurt. Notre Dame should eek out a close one on the road unless it rains in which case it will be more interesting than watching a dog try to pick up a ball that’s too big for them. Also in the interest of full disclosure, and before I stop receiving calls from her, I should mention that my mother has never to my knowledge baked a fruitcake. But you can be rest assured that if she did it would be appropriately tough.
Lehigh at Villanova 7PM EST
Well well, if it isn’t the real battle for Pennsylvania. Look for the courageous Mountain Hawks (Engineers) to try and rebound from their heartbreaking loss last week at the hands of…oh come on…Central Connecticut State???? (What the heck? How do I spin that? You guys only managed 184 yards of total offense…) Well anyway look for the pass happy Hawks led by Junior J.B. Clark to put the ball in the air early and often. The Villanova Wildcats, renowned cheaters and tax evaders, were able to squeeze a win against Temple last weekend with the leadership of junior QB Chris Whitney. I would never pick Lehigh to lose publically so I won’t finish this section. Instead I’ll stop it in the middle of a sentan
#3 USC at #8 Ohio State 8PM EST
I remember watching this game last year at an Ohio State bar with my friend Cara (who is from Ohio and is a huge OSU fan) and her husband Brian. The fans there were insane, cheering for every yard the Buckeyes were able to muster. And although they were not able to celebrate victory on that day, Cara and Brian should have something a little more important to celebrate this year, as they welcomed their first child (a boy who I’m sure ahs been properly attired in Ohio State gear by this point) a couple weeks ago. I write this because I forgot to send Cara a note a couple weeks ago congratulating her on the momentous occasion and wishing her all the best.
As much as I want for Cara and company to be happy again this weekend, standing in the way is the University of Southern California Trojans, who ran for 342 yards last weekend led by Junior Running Back Joe McKnight. In addition to a fearsome running game the Trojans have for the first time in their storied history opted to start a true freshman Quarterback Matt Barkley, who seems to be destined to follow in the recent line of USC quarterback success stories. Both of whom will be protected by the mauling offensive line of USC that according to some analysts has 5 out of 5 future draft picks in the NFL.
The Ohio State University Buckeyes had a less then impressive victory over Navy last weekend, needing to intercept a two-point conversion by the Midshipmen at the end of the game to seal the win. The gave up a surprising amount of rushing yards to the much smaller Navy team, much of it coming because the defensive line was pushed around by Navy. If they are to win this game OSU will need to rely on dual threat QB Terrelle Pryor, who will need to create some plays behind OSU’s physically underwhelming offensive line.
Last week I thought USC would just push OSU around and that would be the end of it. I still think that’s the case but since the game is at Ohio State and 100,000 plus fans perhaps the Trojans and their young quarterback will fold. Look for USC to run the ball again and again over the OSU defense. Also look for me to be barbequing a bunch of food during the first couple quarters of this game, stop on by if you are hungry.
As always comments can be e-mailed to me or posted on www.fatkidmusings.blogspot.com
Let me know if you know anyone else who would like to receive this column, or if you yourself have had enough of my nonsense.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Thursday, September 3, 2009
College Football Weekend 9/3/09-9/7/09
It feels like 1000 years since last football season. An entire generation of children has grown up and raised their own children since the last time I wrote this, and I’ve grown a year more cynical and jaded, but not wiser. In fact I promise 50% less insight and wittiness this year! And I know what you are saying, “Marty you were never that insightful or witty to begin with.” Well I’ve also gained weight, so there…In college football, as in life, things change albeit slowly sometimes. No longer is it the case where at the beginning of the year there are 10 or less teams that will contend for the title. Now you potentially have 25-30 teams in the nation that have a realistic chance at a national title.
Since we’re talking about change, it should also be mentioned that change is slow. Case in point: Utah. Utah was the only team in the country to go undefeated last year, yet they were not allowed to play for the national title. This isn’t the 70’s or 80’s or even 90’s anymore. Games are broadcast on networks all throughout the country. ESPN covers every game in Division 1 and it takes 15 minutes to glance over and see who a team has played. And yet the mindset still remains that only teams from big conferences can win the national title. So despite a larger number of teams having a realistic chance, still it remains unlikely that a team from a “less prestigious” conference will win a title. To date only the 1984 BYU team has won a national title in the modern era.
But enough fluff, on to this weekend itself. This is actually a fantastic weekend for college football. It’s the first weekend of the year and there are a handful of great games. Besides the games between ranked schools there’s always a couple games between high profile schools and smaller creampuff schools that end up being exciting or even ending in upsets (Michigan vs. Appalachian State) because the big teams haven’t quite found their polish and rhythm yet.
Thursday: September 3rd
# 16 Oregon at #14 Boise State 10PM EST
Sear your eyes watching the bright blue field on HD. Make it so that the rest of your football watching season is slightly blue. The Bronco’s of Boise State haven’t lost a home game since 2001, since then they have won 49 straight games at home and they have posted records of 12-1, 13-1, 11-1, 9-4, 13-0, 10-3, and 12-1 in the seven seasons since 2001. The Oregon Ducks are perennially disappointments to the high expectations they face, and were upset at home last year by Boise. Kellen Moore was the Broncos outstanding freshman quarterback last year who will look to continue running the innovative and high powered Boise offense. Oregon will look to start off their season with a win, which would be great because they have arguably the hardest schedule in the country, they have absolutely zero weak teams.
Expect this game to be exciting, not only because it’s the first big game of the year, but also because both teams have really fun offenses. I’ll pick Oregon to win, despite Boise’s long streak.
Saturday September 5th
Appalachian State at East Carolina 12PM EST
Appalachian State is one of the best Division 1-AA teams in the country, and their QB Armanti Edwards is a dual threat quarterback for the Mountaineers. However he hurt his foot mowing the lawn last month, so it’s unlikely we’ll see him. Despite that the Mountaineers always have a strong team, and typically start off strong, beating Michigan two years ago in the opener. The East Carolina Pirates were the darling giant slayers last year until they themselves fell victim to NC State, prior to that they had huge upset wins over Virginia Tech and West Virginia. QB Patrick Pinkney is a strong armed gunslinger who is hard to bring down.
With Armanti Edwards App. State probably has a real chance at the upset here, but without him the East Carolina Pirates are probably the stronger team, and they should win a close one.
#13 Georgia at #9 Oklahoma State 3:30PM EST
The Oklahoma State Cowboys were one of the best offenses in the country last year, just like every team in the big 12. Their spread offense led by QB Zac Robinson scored 20 points or more every single game. The Georgia Bulldogs lost their two best offensive weapons in QB Mathew Stafford, and RB Knowshon Moreno, both of whom are now playing in the NFL and making way more money then I will in my lifetime. What is left behind is a Georgia defense that is stacked against stopping the run, which will force Robinson to pass.
The key here is the OSU offense vs. the Georgia Defense, but the wrinkle is that OSU has two of the best punt/kick returners in the country. Normally I would favor the better defensive team, but not when playing on the road in the first game of the year. The Cowboys will do just enough to get by.
#20 Brigham Young vs. #3 Oklahoma 7PM EST
This game is an early test for two programs who would love to be in contention for a National Title. The BYU Cougars are year in and year out one of my favorite programs to watch because they run a pro style offense and generally keep their noses pretty clean. The Oklahoma Sooners have a very strong team both offensively and defensively and should be fun to watch. Both teams boast especially strong Quarterbacks in Max Hall for BYU and Sam Bradford for Oklahoma, both of which were two of the most prolific passers in the nation last year and Bradford won the Heisman trophy.
BYU is a great team, but they may have tried to bite off more then they can chew much like this monstrous apple I’ve been trying to eat all day (seriously it seems like I’ve been eating this apple for 45 minutes and it’s like half done and my jaw is tired). Oklahoma outguns and out-mans BYU in almost every category possible. They also have to travel the shorter distance to the game, which is apparently a very accurate decider for games played at neutral sites.
#5 Alabama vs #7 Virginia Tech 8PM EST
The Hokies of Virgina Polytechnic Institute and State University hold an all time record of 1-10 against the Alabama Crimson Tide. Leading the Hokies is the often shaky QB Tyrod Taylor, who has been at times a hot commodity and riding the pine (sitting on the bench) at others. QB Greg McElroy is the first year starter for the Crimson Tide, a team which lost both it’s starting running back and quarterback to the NFL. Historically both of these teams are fantastic defensively, and this could be all about defense, much like my performance reviews (ouch). Earlier in the week it was unclear if Alabama would have two of its star players available due to possible NCAA suspensions, however both have been cleared to play, but that may still serve as a distraction.
Based on the rule I set above for team being closer to neutral site winning, I’m going to have to pick Alabama, who is slightly closer to Atlanta than Virgina Tech.
Monday September 7th
Miami at #17 Florida State
It’s technically illegal to write a college football column and not mention these two teams playing each other. So I’m mentioning it.
As always I will post all the articles at http://www.fatkidmusings.blogspot.com/
If you would like to have a friend added to the e-mail list just shoot me their e-mail and I’ll make it happen. If you are tired of my sillyness and think poorly of me just let me know and I’ll remove you from the mailing list. Have a fun and safe labor day weekend!
Since we’re talking about change, it should also be mentioned that change is slow. Case in point: Utah. Utah was the only team in the country to go undefeated last year, yet they were not allowed to play for the national title. This isn’t the 70’s or 80’s or even 90’s anymore. Games are broadcast on networks all throughout the country. ESPN covers every game in Division 1 and it takes 15 minutes to glance over and see who a team has played. And yet the mindset still remains that only teams from big conferences can win the national title. So despite a larger number of teams having a realistic chance, still it remains unlikely that a team from a “less prestigious” conference will win a title. To date only the 1984 BYU team has won a national title in the modern era.
But enough fluff, on to this weekend itself. This is actually a fantastic weekend for college football. It’s the first weekend of the year and there are a handful of great games. Besides the games between ranked schools there’s always a couple games between high profile schools and smaller creampuff schools that end up being exciting or even ending in upsets (Michigan vs. Appalachian State) because the big teams haven’t quite found their polish and rhythm yet.
Thursday: September 3rd
# 16 Oregon at #14 Boise State 10PM EST
Sear your eyes watching the bright blue field on HD. Make it so that the rest of your football watching season is slightly blue. The Bronco’s of Boise State haven’t lost a home game since 2001, since then they have won 49 straight games at home and they have posted records of 12-1, 13-1, 11-1, 9-4, 13-0, 10-3, and 12-1 in the seven seasons since 2001. The Oregon Ducks are perennially disappointments to the high expectations they face, and were upset at home last year by Boise. Kellen Moore was the Broncos outstanding freshman quarterback last year who will look to continue running the innovative and high powered Boise offense. Oregon will look to start off their season with a win, which would be great because they have arguably the hardest schedule in the country, they have absolutely zero weak teams.
Expect this game to be exciting, not only because it’s the first big game of the year, but also because both teams have really fun offenses. I’ll pick Oregon to win, despite Boise’s long streak.
Saturday September 5th
Appalachian State at East Carolina 12PM EST
Appalachian State is one of the best Division 1-AA teams in the country, and their QB Armanti Edwards is a dual threat quarterback for the Mountaineers. However he hurt his foot mowing the lawn last month, so it’s unlikely we’ll see him. Despite that the Mountaineers always have a strong team, and typically start off strong, beating Michigan two years ago in the opener. The East Carolina Pirates were the darling giant slayers last year until they themselves fell victim to NC State, prior to that they had huge upset wins over Virginia Tech and West Virginia. QB Patrick Pinkney is a strong armed gunslinger who is hard to bring down.
With Armanti Edwards App. State probably has a real chance at the upset here, but without him the East Carolina Pirates are probably the stronger team, and they should win a close one.
#13 Georgia at #9 Oklahoma State 3:30PM EST
The Oklahoma State Cowboys were one of the best offenses in the country last year, just like every team in the big 12. Their spread offense led by QB Zac Robinson scored 20 points or more every single game. The Georgia Bulldogs lost their two best offensive weapons in QB Mathew Stafford, and RB Knowshon Moreno, both of whom are now playing in the NFL and making way more money then I will in my lifetime. What is left behind is a Georgia defense that is stacked against stopping the run, which will force Robinson to pass.
The key here is the OSU offense vs. the Georgia Defense, but the wrinkle is that OSU has two of the best punt/kick returners in the country. Normally I would favor the better defensive team, but not when playing on the road in the first game of the year. The Cowboys will do just enough to get by.
#20 Brigham Young vs. #3 Oklahoma 7PM EST
This game is an early test for two programs who would love to be in contention for a National Title. The BYU Cougars are year in and year out one of my favorite programs to watch because they run a pro style offense and generally keep their noses pretty clean. The Oklahoma Sooners have a very strong team both offensively and defensively and should be fun to watch. Both teams boast especially strong Quarterbacks in Max Hall for BYU and Sam Bradford for Oklahoma, both of which were two of the most prolific passers in the nation last year and Bradford won the Heisman trophy.
BYU is a great team, but they may have tried to bite off more then they can chew much like this monstrous apple I’ve been trying to eat all day (seriously it seems like I’ve been eating this apple for 45 minutes and it’s like half done and my jaw is tired). Oklahoma outguns and out-mans BYU in almost every category possible. They also have to travel the shorter distance to the game, which is apparently a very accurate decider for games played at neutral sites.
#5 Alabama vs #7 Virginia Tech 8PM EST
The Hokies of Virgina Polytechnic Institute and State University hold an all time record of 1-10 against the Alabama Crimson Tide. Leading the Hokies is the often shaky QB Tyrod Taylor, who has been at times a hot commodity and riding the pine (sitting on the bench) at others. QB Greg McElroy is the first year starter for the Crimson Tide, a team which lost both it’s starting running back and quarterback to the NFL. Historically both of these teams are fantastic defensively, and this could be all about defense, much like my performance reviews (ouch). Earlier in the week it was unclear if Alabama would have two of its star players available due to possible NCAA suspensions, however both have been cleared to play, but that may still serve as a distraction.
Based on the rule I set above for team being closer to neutral site winning, I’m going to have to pick Alabama, who is slightly closer to Atlanta than Virgina Tech.
Monday September 7th
Miami at #17 Florida State
It’s technically illegal to write a college football column and not mention these two teams playing each other. So I’m mentioning it.
As always I will post all the articles at http://www.fatkidmusings.blogspot.com/
If you would like to have a friend added to the e-mail list just shoot me their e-mail and I’ll make it happen. If you are tired of my sillyness and think poorly of me just let me know and I’ll remove you from the mailing list. Have a fun and safe labor day weekend!
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Please God don't let it happen...
Now that T.O. has been released from the Cowboys it is only natural for a Redskins fan to fear the ignorance that is Danny Snyder. I can already see the headline this afternoon that the Skins have signed Owens to a 5 year $65 million contract. Somewhere in Louden County Jason Campbell is crying...
<= A man with good intentions and shit for brains.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Monday, March 2, 2009
St. Dawkins Takes His Leave
When you have a living Saint playing on your team, like the Eagles have for the last 13 seasons, it's probably in your best interests to resign him. Considering that 1) He was the NFL defensive player of the league in December last year and 2) He has more active starts then any other player in franchise history. What the heck Eagles? How can you not resign Dawkins?
Friday, February 27, 2009
OFFSEASON CHAMPS!...sigh
God have I not seen this act 4 times before? My beloved Redskins have just spent 160 million dollars on 2 players in league with a salary cap. WHAT THE SHIT! I know they signed 2 good players, including the best defensive lineman in the league but come on, there were so many other holes to fill. That little fucking dwarf owner is killing a once proud franchise and has a mental midget as his GM just because he constantly kisses his ass. I might be auctioning off my fandom in the coming months so if you are interested let me know.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
MLB 2009 Preview Part 1…
Over the next few days I am going to be breaking down the 6 divisions and giving my preseason predictions for the upcoming baseball season. Feel free to disagree with everything I say and leave your feedback in the comments section. Now without further ado…
NL East:
Phillies
Mets*
Braves
Nationals
Marlins
(*Wild Card)
Best Player: Hanley Ramirez
Best Pitcher: Cole Hamels
Impact Newcomer: JJ Putz
Overview:
As Ric Flair once said, to be the man you have to beat the man, WOOOOOO!, and for that reason the Phillies remain on top. I know that the Mets revamped their bull pen and the Braves got Derek Lowe but neither of those moves scare me. While I do not like the Raul Ibanez signing for the Phils because Burrell gave them a nice right handed balance they still have too strong of a line up. Add to that the fact that K-Rod now lost 6 mph on his fastball and struggles to find the plate at times and I can’t think of a worse lineup for him to face then the Phillies. This leads me to my selection of JJ Putz as the impact newcomer. Over the course of the year I think his dominance in the 8th inning, his ability to go 2 innings and his reliability will be of more value to the Amazin’s then K-Rod.
When I look at the Mets offensively they have some really nice pieces in Wright, Reyes, Beltran, etc. but they are old at several others. Reyes is too lackidasical and Wright tries way too hard down the stretch every year. Add in the huge offensive holes in RF, LF, C and 2B and you have problems.
The Braves made some nice additions to their staff but don’t have enough fire power in that lineup. Garrett Anderson was a decent pick up but he is an every other day player right now.
The Nationals are the youngest team in the league and I think they might surprise a few people. (Yes I am a Nats fan) By surprise I mean they won’t lose 102 games again. If their young pitchers develop they could inch their way back towards .500.
Marlins, who the hell knows. They get rid of all their players every few years and always seem to reload. With Hanley Ramirez and Uggla they at least have some boppers in the line up.
AL East:
Tampa Bay Rays
Boston Red Sox*
New York Yankees
Baltimore Orioles
Toronto Blue Jays
(*Wild Card)
Best Player: BJ Upton
Best Pitcher: CC Sabathia
Impact Newcomer: David Price
Overview:
So the Yankees spent a billion dollars and the Red Sox signed some nice older pitchers and all of a sudden everyone forgets about the Rays? Sorry I guess to me a bunch of studs in their early 20’s and a ridiculously deep starting staff is better then overpriced old dudes. The Rays have Upton, Longoria, Crawford, Pena, Navarro all with another year of maturation under their belts and playoff experience. You think that beating the Sox in 7 games won’t carry over? I disagree. Now add David Price to the staff that already includes Shields, Kazmir, Garza and Sonnanstine and you could be looking at a dominant staff for the next 8 years. The additions of Matt Joyce and Pat Burrell also make them way more intimidating. Now I know you are wondering, how is BJ Upton the best player in the division? I see him as a 30/30 guy with a good average, crazy range in CF and a huge arm. Just like a carpenter I love tools and the kid is 24 and won’t hit his prime for 3 to 4 more years and already loves the big stage…scary.
Red Sox, great pitching but where do the runs come from? Youk won’t match last year, and who knows how healthy Papi and Lowell are this year. Add in JD Drews bad back and Elsbury playing without Crisps security net this year and you have some problems. Doen’t help that your catcher and captain can’t hit over .200.
Yankees, well they look good on paper right? Something tells me that AROD won’t be able to focus like Bonds did during this traveling circus in pin stripes. Jeter is a legend who shouldn’t be playing short anymore and should move to CF but apparently doing what is right for the team is blasphemous. Burnett isn’t in a contract year, Pettite is old, which Robi Cano shows up? Why is Joba starting? Will Jorge’s arm stay attached? Just way way too many questions here.
Orioles, man they have a chance to be really good in a few years. I love what McPhail has done with their outfield in Pie, Jones and Markaikis. Weiters is an absolute stud and should be the everyday catcher by late May. They have some good young pitchers coming up but could use a young corner guy in the infield.
Jays, the need to rebuild. Look for them to trade Halladay before the deadline for a huge ransom to a playoff contender. I wouldn’t expect him to throw as many complete games this year because if they were smart they would save his arm and make him even more attractive. I can see them getting 3 or 4 big time prospects for Doc.
So that’s my take, next up the Central Divisions.
NL East:
Phillies
Mets*
Braves
Nationals
Marlins
(*Wild Card)
Best Player: Hanley Ramirez
Best Pitcher: Cole Hamels
Impact Newcomer: JJ Putz
Overview:
As Ric Flair once said, to be the man you have to beat the man, WOOOOOO!, and for that reason the Phillies remain on top. I know that the Mets revamped their bull pen and the Braves got Derek Lowe but neither of those moves scare me. While I do not like the Raul Ibanez signing for the Phils because Burrell gave them a nice right handed balance they still have too strong of a line up. Add to that the fact that K-Rod now lost 6 mph on his fastball and struggles to find the plate at times and I can’t think of a worse lineup for him to face then the Phillies. This leads me to my selection of JJ Putz as the impact newcomer. Over the course of the year I think his dominance in the 8th inning, his ability to go 2 innings and his reliability will be of more value to the Amazin’s then K-Rod.
When I look at the Mets offensively they have some really nice pieces in Wright, Reyes, Beltran, etc. but they are old at several others. Reyes is too lackidasical and Wright tries way too hard down the stretch every year. Add in the huge offensive holes in RF, LF, C and 2B and you have problems.
The Braves made some nice additions to their staff but don’t have enough fire power in that lineup. Garrett Anderson was a decent pick up but he is an every other day player right now.
The Nationals are the youngest team in the league and I think they might surprise a few people. (Yes I am a Nats fan) By surprise I mean they won’t lose 102 games again. If their young pitchers develop they could inch their way back towards .500.
Marlins, who the hell knows. They get rid of all their players every few years and always seem to reload. With Hanley Ramirez and Uggla they at least have some boppers in the line up.
AL East:
Tampa Bay Rays
Boston Red Sox*
New York Yankees
Baltimore Orioles
Toronto Blue Jays
(*Wild Card)
Best Player: BJ Upton
Best Pitcher: CC Sabathia
Impact Newcomer: David Price
Overview:
So the Yankees spent a billion dollars and the Red Sox signed some nice older pitchers and all of a sudden everyone forgets about the Rays? Sorry I guess to me a bunch of studs in their early 20’s and a ridiculously deep starting staff is better then overpriced old dudes. The Rays have Upton, Longoria, Crawford, Pena, Navarro all with another year of maturation under their belts and playoff experience. You think that beating the Sox in 7 games won’t carry over? I disagree. Now add David Price to the staff that already includes Shields, Kazmir, Garza and Sonnanstine and you could be looking at a dominant staff for the next 8 years. The additions of Matt Joyce and Pat Burrell also make them way more intimidating. Now I know you are wondering, how is BJ Upton the best player in the division? I see him as a 30/30 guy with a good average, crazy range in CF and a huge arm. Just like a carpenter I love tools and the kid is 24 and won’t hit his prime for 3 to 4 more years and already loves the big stage…scary.
Red Sox, great pitching but where do the runs come from? Youk won’t match last year, and who knows how healthy Papi and Lowell are this year. Add in JD Drews bad back and Elsbury playing without Crisps security net this year and you have some problems. Doen’t help that your catcher and captain can’t hit over .200.
Yankees, well they look good on paper right? Something tells me that AROD won’t be able to focus like Bonds did during this traveling circus in pin stripes. Jeter is a legend who shouldn’t be playing short anymore and should move to CF but apparently doing what is right for the team is blasphemous. Burnett isn’t in a contract year, Pettite is old, which Robi Cano shows up? Why is Joba starting? Will Jorge’s arm stay attached? Just way way too many questions here.
Orioles, man they have a chance to be really good in a few years. I love what McPhail has done with their outfield in Pie, Jones and Markaikis. Weiters is an absolute stud and should be the everyday catcher by late May. They have some good young pitchers coming up but could use a young corner guy in the infield.
Jays, the need to rebuild. Look for them to trade Halladay before the deadline for a huge ransom to a playoff contender. I wouldn’t expect him to throw as many complete games this year because if they were smart they would save his arm and make him even more attractive. I can see them getting 3 or 4 big time prospects for Doc.
So that’s my take, next up the Central Divisions.
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