Call em as I see em

There were a few glaring issues about todays Sox game that I was particularly enamored by: Ortiz breaking his bat over his knee, A rookie ump behind the plate, and the catcher/manager ejections.

I'm sort of torn between making some wise ass comment about how that's the most contact his bat has seen in a week and excited about him FINALLY showing fire in his attitude instead of sulking like a girl that got stood up on Prom night. I am not entirely sure what happened on the swing prior to that but the bat shattered in his hands mid swing. Either he finally had some power in that wrist that made it shatter or his wood was no good. Said in my Johnny Cochran, "if the glove does not fit you must acquit," voice. I do not think that this is some sort sign of things to come unless you call a phantom DL trip because of now a bum knee for snapping a bat that could have had a few hits in it if someone else used it.

A rookie umpire was thrust in the spotlight today in clearly a situation of greater magnitude than he has dealt with. I can't blame the 'Rook' but I can blame the crew chief. As far as I'm concerned if there is an injury to a fellow member of the crew there is no room for putting a rookie behind the plate, not the way it happened. I firmly believe that a year of seasoning or what we'll call umping the bases needs to happen before you get the priveledge of running this game. I'm just sayin...

Mike Redmond, a pushover by nature, actually has a pulse when a call doesn't go his way. This is evident by the fact that in his 12 year major league career he just gets his first ejection and also got his manager tossed in the process.Here's the recap: a shot flyball into right and Kubel comes up with a frozen rope to the plate and from 3 different camera angles Redmond appeared to have tagged Bailey out on the wrist a split second before his acrobatic slide. To see him freak out and then dance up on Tischner (the rook) like some extra in You Got Served was wrong, albeit justified but wrong nontheless. Then Gardenhire in response to his catcher's displeasure gets tossed for the sheer sake of getting tossed (it's a baseball rule just go with it.)

Now for the other edge of the sword. On an 0-2 pitch Josh Beckett throws a 12-6 yacker apparently just off the edge and barks something at the BoSox dugout. I'm gonna go with this, "Will someone tell this minor leauge lifer that I'm Texas sized Josh Mother Lovin' Beckett." Yeah that's probably what he said. Then the umpire looked like he tried to have words with Beckett at which point the newly revitalized power hitter that is Jason Varitek turned around and got into it with him so that his pitcher, whom threw a gem by the way, didn't get the boot. Noble and lucky that putting the newly passball happy Kottaras back there didn't blow up in there faces.

All in all a pretty eventful game and as for the completely random question of the day?
Will David Ortiz be the DH come the July 31st trade deadline? I'm gonna go with no on this one...

Spoke too soon...

Open Mouth, Insert foot. Yup that's pretty much the extent of my feelings on the last blog that I wrote. The Dice Man giveth, th Dice Man taketh away. And man is he takething away pretty hardcore right now.

The Japanese hurler is topping out at 92 mph and is once again NOT attacking the zone, and effectively pitching backwards which in theory is a great way to go about pitching in the major leagues but only when you can throw 3 strikes in an at bat, not two.

Does anyone else find it a coincidence that the day that John Smoltz is slotted to come back is the day after Brad Penny is able to be traded without his consent? I think not.

I'm starting to believe that the Tampa Bay Rays are the Milli Vanilli's of Major League baseball. More so to the fact that they are one hit wonders rather than 2 Black Haitians with Dreds that do this dance that is indescribable with words.

Starting to laugh at everyone calling Matt Wieters (including myself) "Joe Mauer with Power" when he has hit 11 HR's in less than a month this year, and is 2 HRs away from last years total. He says hes not doing anything different I say he's doing one thing different, hitting the ball out of the park AND hitting for a BETTER average. Speaking of Wieters, the Baltimore Orange Bird of the future makes his long awaited debut Friday and it just so happens to be the day after he is un-eligible for the Super Two category which allows him to reach arbitration one extra time in his career. What a punch in the crotch you are Business of baseball.

After finally seeing the tirade that was Carlos Zambrano this afternoon I will proclaim that this is what's wrong with the game. You can yell at an umpire and get in the face of them without actually touching them or anything of that nature but was firing the ball into left, really the way to show young baseball/Cub fans the proper way to go about being angry at a call...Probably not...but what do I know. Of course I am the same former player that told someone that if he threw inside at my head again i would take the bat and shove it up his {expletive}. Looking back on it I guess that wasn't the best thing so I'll give him a pass with a slap on the wrist. Just for the sheer sake of not being a hypocrite.

Last rant. I promise. Instant Replay in baseball Sucks! That's my argument...Just kidding...But seriously it sucks. Baseball is a game of human error...take Julio Lugo for example he is a perfect of example of human error!

Stay Tuned

Ryan

Stay tuned

A Promising Sight

In contrast to an earlier piece, Roll the Dice, Dice-K impressed me with his performance against the Mets on Friday night, despite taking the L. The WBC, although I'm a fan, definitely played a part in his early season struggles/ineffectiveness/lack of shoulder strength. But now with his extended rest and work in the minors looked like the pitcher that I wanted to see when he came here from Japan.

The first thing that jumped out at me was his velocity. I'm not just talking his velocity from the first two games, but his velocity all las year was topping out at around 93. Friday night he topped out at 96 and seemed to really be able to let it go. Prior to his signing the reports were, a rubber arm, a power arm, and a lot of deception with his pitches. Personally I have not seen that, whether it be because of the organization protecting its investment or because of pressure I was finally not antsy while watching the Samurai throw.

The worst thing about Dice-K's outing wasn't that he took the loss its that his high-power offense had to hit against the 2nd (yes I said second) best pitcher in baseball. Your welcome Roy Halladay. He seemed to be the dominant presence on the mound that I expect for 100 million dollars. And if this is the Daisuke that we are going to see for the rest of the year, then I will retract everything that I wrote about him in my previous columns. *I'm gonna call this a column for the sake of tooting my own horn.*

Maybe I'm coming around on the whole Japanese movement or maybe it's the drunken comatose state I was in for about 6 hrs this weekend clouding my thinking...You decide. Either way...For his first start off of the DL and opposing the Best pitcher in the National League you have to like what he offered up there. For now I'll give him a pass on the loss for pleasing my needs of seeing some extra giddy-up on the fastball and not trying to entice hitters with 3-2 curveballs 6 inches outside the friggin plate...ugh.

Stay Tuned

Ryan

State of the Nation

The Red Sox have had all sorts of sub-stories to talk about in the last few days. I figure that today I'll touch upon a few of them!

First off, I try to not conform to society, but what are you doing, David Ortiz? Not only is your hitting (or lack there of) affecting the production that this lineup is capable of, but the sulking in the dugout has got to cease! Every time you miss an 89 mph "Cheeseball" ala "Eck" you throw your arms up, you don't run it out (that's another aggravating trait that you have grown accustomed to), and then you go in the dugout and you look like you're being forced to listen to Celine Dion. If you still have anything left in the tank it will come but remember to play the game the RIGHT way. The Baseball Gods will look down favorably on someone who plays the game correctly.

Josh Beckett looked like the player that we thought we acquired from the Marlins in 2006, on Saturday night. giving up 1 unearned run and shutting down a potent, and star studded Mets lineup. He was overpowering, finessing, and flat out out-classing them and got nothing to show for it because of a 3rd string catcher hitting a ball off the top of Tha Monstah off of Jonathan Papelbon.

After watching Brad Penny for the 4th consecutive start give the Red Sox a chance to win and achieving the timeless "quality start" his stock is rising for his June 15th trade availability. Because of his 1 yr deal with the Red Sox he is entitled by MLB regulations to remain on the team through the ides of June before he is trade bait. His recent performance has shown that he is someone that you can count on handing the ball to every 5th day. This gives us a SERIOUS bargaining chip that is expendable because of the presence of John Smoltz to the Red Sox rotation. It may not happen on the 15th but rest assure that when Smoltz is ready to pitch he has a spot on that rubber and Penny will be with another ball club.

Finally, the ENIGMA that is Clay Buchholz. Today he took a perfect game into the 9th inning against AAA Louisville and threw 70 of 96 pitches for strikes. *scratches head bewildered* Wasn't this the same Clay Buchholz that came up here last year and pitched like Big Papi hits? *rimshot* Short answer: Yes. Long Answer: he busted his tail this offseason and learned what the best pitch in baseball is. Strike one. Follow that up with strike two on a consistent basis and you're going to have yourself one hell of a pitcher. In a similar case with Tommy Hanson of the AAA Braves affiliate they are both pitching out of this world but with 0 availability in the parent clubs rotation. The real question? Do we keep him and hope that the ageless 'Wake' doesn't come back next year and then have 4 fireballers in our rotation OR trade him with others for a young power bat, say Adrian Gonzalez. Pardon my salivating.

With a small sidenote: Dennis Eckersley needs to have more Freudian slips during broadcasts because it makes for a fun drinking game!

Stay Tuned

Ryan

Close-ing Time

First things first, I think Jonathan Papelbon is GREAT for baseball and especially the Red Sox. But I also know that the business of baseball says that when Paps' 6.25 mil contract is up for the Bo Sox, Daniel Bard is the one to usurp his throne. He is one of the most hyped rookies in Red Sox history and has got the lightning "stuff" to prove it.

Jonny is as close to you get as a sure thing in baseball. His saves going up in each of the last three years (35, 37, 41) respectively. But the dumbfounding thing is that little tidbit called ERA. That has also increased in the last three years. As a former catcher and baseball player what that equates to me is that people are seeing him MUCH more often and are figuring out that he is a FASTBALL pitcher. His number one pitch is a 95-98 mph hard one. his number 2 pitch is a fastball that he can spot on the corners, and his number 3 pitch is a fastball that he can just blow past everyone.

As far as I'm concerned there is only one closer that has the ability to shut people down with one pitch and that's good 'ol Mo in the Bronx. The reason why Mo Riv is so successful is because his "one pitch" moves...Paps' is straighter than an arrow and this season has struggled to be the dominant closer that was 2006- '07.

Unlike the "discounted" prices that Lester, Youkilis, and Pedroia got rewarded with this year, he has been holding out for what we'll call "K-Rod" Money. I can't say that he doesn't desrerve a substantial raise but probably not from the front office of the Red Sox. Especially, when there is a fireballing righty in the wings named Daniel Bard.

"Stuff" is great in a bullpen, but that shutdown mentality is unteachable, and mostly unattainable. For winnings sake I hope that Paps' gets the contract he deserves and hopes for, but in this economy the "Moneyball" philosophy says to let the big fish of the day go to catch the King of the Sea later.

Stay Tuned

Ryan

The Underrateds

In the game of baseball you get the superstars (Pujols, Santana, Rodriguez) of the generation and you also get the players that get too much hype (Holliday, Beckett, Beltre). Well this is me "giving props" as they say on the street to the Underrated Players of the league.

My most underrated catcher has got to be Mike Napoli. He has a HOSE behind the plate and with Mike Scoscia as your skipper you better be ready to work. As a dead red fastball hitter I've only seen one person be able to sack up and put one by him. *tips cap* good work Daniel Bard.

The Pitcher that makes this list is an obvious one for me. Derek Lowe. He has never been on the Disabled List, has a history of being a winner/big game pitcher, and also has pitched at least 185 innings with 12 wins a year since 2002. He is also the only person in history to Win all the clinching games of the MLB Playoffs.

My First Base vote goes for the slugger out in California, Adrian Gonzalez. He is fast becoming one of the most revered sluggers in the game. His HR total has inclined gradually in each of the last 5 years. The only reason he isn't a household name right now is because of the market he plays in. Expect 40+ and 120+ at the end of this season.

Getting the nod at second base is the Toronto Blue Jay pride and joy, Aaron Hill. Being a first round pick in 2003, he had a semblance of a breakout season in 2007 but is quickly rising the ranks in the AL and could make his first All Star appearance this year. His defense is also underrated but that's for another blog.

Manning the Hot Corner on this list is Mike Lowell. The consummate professional plays Gold Glove caliber defense night in and night out and is just 2 years removed from driving in 120 runs. With a lackluster '08 and losing a step or four due to offseason hip surgery. He is back on pace to hit 20 HR's and drive 100+RBI's.

The Shortstop that takes the cake is Jason Bartlett. Coming over in a trade from the Minnesota Twins he has played the most solid defense of any SS in the league and started out like a house on fire this year. He had 1 HR in all of last season, he is now hitting .379 with 5 HR's and the leader in the clubhouse.

Left field goes to the Red HOT Jason Bay. Being with the Red Sox he is starting to get his due, also having to replace a first ballot hall of famer couldn't be easy but Bay's gaudy numbers, if kept up could have him being a front runner for this years MVP race. Not to mention his flair for dramatics reminiscent of Papi in '04 has his asking price driving up in this his contract year.

Centerfield easily goes to Shane "The Flyin Hawaiian" Victorino. Day in and day out he plays superb defense, bats .300 and swipes bags like they are going out of style. On a team like the Philadelphia Phillies this guy is going to be a table setter for years to come in front of Utley and Howard.

Last, but certainly not least goes to the Right Fielder of the Toronto Blue Jays, Alex Rios. This 5-Tool Player does it all. He's the prototypical number 3 hitter in a newly potent Toronto Lineup. Defensively is always near the top of the league in assists and can run down just about any ball this side of Nova Scotia.

The big wigs of this game get their praise every day...Sometimes you gotta give credit where credits due.

Stay Tuned

Ryan

A Night to Remember at the Fens

Boston fans had a lot to be excited about Wednesday night. Our first baseman and clean-up hitter has come back from an oblique injury, A speedy center fielder puts his name in the record books tying the most putouts in a game, four home runs in one inning including back to back, and oh yeah some guy in a prolonged slump comes through in a big way!

Kevin Youkilis has returned from a nagging oblique ailment that landed him on the 15-Day DL. In his last two days in Pawtucket he went hitless, to which Francona quipped,"should we send you down to Double A?" Youkilis responded in a big way by collecting 3 hits to bring his average back up over .400. Gotta love seeing this lineup fill back in after being a tad anhorexic looking over the last couple weeks.

Jacoby Ellsbury ended the game by tying the major league record for most putouts by an outfielder in a single game with 12. That's 4 innings worth of flyballs to the one the call "Ells." This speaks volumes to the amount of ground he covers each and every game. Not just a bag swiper, this defensive genius deserve everything he gets this year.

The last time the Red Sox hit 4 HR's in the same inning was against Chase Wright of the New York Yankees. Where was I during all that you ask? Getting my unborn child's mother some ice cream at a grocery store and couldn't even hear it on the radio. I'd be damned if I missed four Homers in an inning another time. The Captain hits 2 bombs on the day and has certainly found his power stroke this year.

The most important feat of the night was the beleaguered slugger David Ortiz hitting his first pot shot of the year. Here's the play by play in my living room: Laughing hysterically about the stupidity that was this afternoon as Papi lumbers up to the plate, Says," ya know David, I could really go for you not sucking right now", *thunderous crack of the bat* JUMPS Straight up in the air completely disregarding the fact that my almost six foot frame doesn't mix with an almost 7 foot ceiling, landing gracefully and delving into a very slipshod version of the Carlton Dance. This, to me, was not as important as the opposite field double that followed the home run. It shows me that he is staying on the ball and about to start to rake up at the plate.

Here's the final note tonight. Although I miss the color commentary by Jerry Remy, Dennis Eckersley must be one of the funniest men on the planet. "Sneaky cheese" "Easy Cheese" "Paint!" These Eck-isms are rapidly becoming some of my newest and most used terms in my vocabulary.

Stay Tuned

Ryan

Odds and Ends

After watching Jon Lester get beat after being spotted a 4-run cushion, he was less than pleased with his outing. Offering up that, "no one, will work harder than him going forward.: Also, going on record saying that "losing this game was unacceptable." Yes, he's young, but he knows when it's time to buck up and pitch. I was thoroughly impressed with the maturity and intensity of his post game commentary and I expect nothing less than what he was the last half of '08, simply dominant. Look out baseball you may have woken a sleeping giant.

On Monday evening while scrolling through the guide, or as the wife likes to call it "channel surfing" I saw that the Yankees and Twins were on ESPN. I happened to tune in during the most pivotal at bat during the game: Justin Morneau vs. Phil Coke. This is an easy one. Morneau, the hottest hitter in baseball aside from his counterpart at 1B that night, should be able to come through and tie the game for the Twinkies. I couldn't be more off base. Morneau made Coke look like Danny Almonte circa 2001 with three swings that would make David Ortiz's slump laugh.

On a side note from that game, is anyone else giggling nervously at the thought of Alex Rodriguez and Mark Teixeira heating up at the same time? I'm certainly not worried but the puddle on the floor beneath me is saying, "uh-oh." Since May 8^th the Yankee 1^st Baseman has been seeing more fastballs as the result of Alex Rodriguez reinsertion into the Yankee starting 9. And when you're forced to give a fastball hitter the 'Ol Numba One the people in the bleachers should take cover.

I do realize that in a previous blog I chose the Rangers to win the AL West and although I still believe they will win, if they had any pitching they would win 120 games this year with that offense. They did inquire about the oft-injured Ben Sheets during the offseason but what he can bring to the table THIS season remains to be seen. This is why Brad Penny makes a lot of sense for them, rather than a group of prospects. Although his ERA is inflated due to the abysmal start against Baltimore he has turned in 3 quality stars in a row. If he is near 10+ victories at the trade deadline he could be gone after this extended audition in Bean Town.

A completely random thought: Why are there so many strange injuries this year? Joe Mauer (Inflamed Sacroiliac Joint), Alex Rodriguez (labrum tear in hip), Rickie Weeks (Torn tendon sheath in wrist) . Can you remember a more obscure group of injuries happening in the span of 2 months?

Stay Tuned

Ryan

Attention V-Mart Shoppers

For any of you that don't read MLB Trade Rumors, keeping tabs on the latest wheelings and dealings is a favorite fetish of mine. The most recent grumblings around the league are a shortstop swap between the Mariners and Bucs, Richie Weeks being out for the season, and oh, yes, the Red Sox are interested in Victor Martinez.

What Victor Martinez does is essentially what Mark Teixeira would have done had he not signed with the Empire over the Nation. He gives us a power bat in the middle of the lineup, an option at first to spell Lowell if needed, and the option at DH if Big Poopie can't figure out his swing.

My first thought was that this would give us our "catcher of the future" that we have been looking for. Chad Finn (Boston Globe) stated via Twitter(cheap plug) that he doesn't do a lot of catching anymore with Kelly Shoppach coming into his own. But I still think with some work with the legendary and ageless Gary Tuck, and the master of preparation Jason Varitek, Martinez could be one of if not the TOP catcher in the league on both sides of the ball.

Now the alpha question, What would it take to get it done? You have to assume that AT LEAST one of the Triple B (Buchholz, Bowden, Bard) Attack would be included in the deal plus a minor league bat or two. I personally think that Say Hey Clay would look good in an Indians uniform and you have to think that the Sox are going to try to stay away from dealing (Lars) Anderson unless a big(ger) name (Miguel Cabrera) comes up. The Indians have said that they'd deal Martinez for Young pitching and that is certainly something the Red Sox have a surplus of. This is what I think Theo could propose:

Clay Buchholz, Jeff Bailey, Michael Bowden, Manny DelCarmen and Johnathan Van Every FOR Victor Martinez and minor leaguer to be named later.

Reasons why this makes sense~

1)Insurance~ This is insurance at 4 positions essentially. Catcher, First base, Third base (indirectly), and DH.

2) Middle of the order Bat~ During Spring training David Ortiz said that this team needed a bat in the middle of the lineup…that couldn't be more accurate, I just didn't think it was going to need to fill his void.

3) He owns Boston~ This year alone he's hitting .309 with 3 Dingers. If we can keep him away from that visitors dugout in Fenway it will have been a good day.

If I'm Theo I give them ALMOST anything they ask aside from Nick Hagadone who will be major league ready next year during the summer. The only thing that I MAY wait for is to see if the Detroit Tigers fall out of contention being in one of the most hard hit areas in the country for the current depression their team could go on a fire sale, with Ordonez and Cabrera being on the block for young pitching and young hitting. While I wouldn't give much for an aging and almost powerless Ordonez the ONE person that I would sell the farm for is Cabrera. The guy can flat out rake and at 26 is still a young a budding superstar destined for greatness. If at the end of June the Tigers rotation can't hold up and are steadily descending into the pits of the AL Central Cabrera could very well be a Boston Red Sox.

Stay Tuned

Ryan

The ¼ Mile

About one quarter of the way through this arduous baseball season and the AL East race has not disappointed. The standings are as follows:

Toronto

Boston 3 GB

New York 4.5 GB

Tampa Bay 6.5 GB

Baltimore 9 GB

Wait a tick. Did I just make an absurd typo? Nope, the Toronto Blue jays are leading the most competitive division in baseball. How, you ask? There's a few reasons that I have been able to pinpoint.

First off. The Emergence of Aaron Hill. After having an injury riddled last couple of years; consecutive AB's and the reassurance of the starting job has lead to an outbreak season for this 2Ber. In a league with a plethora of All-Star second baseman (Pedroia, Kinsler, Roberts) Hill is fast becoming a fantasy baseball waiver wire gold mine and a sleeper for the starting job for this Midsummer's Classic.

Next. Starting Pitching. At first glance the only person of recognition is Roy "Doc" Halladay, but they are breeding pitchers like rabbits up North. You can Sharpie in Halladay for 20+ wins and 220+ innings, but the rookie phenom Ricky Romero has been compared to a smaller version of Johan Santana by Jack "Home Run or Bust" Cust, another rookie Scott Richmond that got off to a fast 4-0 start has come back to earth some but still has great stuff and the starting 5 ERA is one of the tops in baseball.

Lastly. Cito Gaston. After managing the Blue Jays to their only World Series wins in their history 1992 and 1993 they figured he still had something left to give. This franchise has a 15 year World Series Drought and is primed for FUTURE success. Cito, is the man to right this ship and through the first quarter mile, is my pick for Coach of the Year.

Still have to believe that this team is two years away from legitimate contention but speaks volumes for the strength of this division in the years to come.

Stay Tuned

Ryan

Charlie Hustle

While sitting in my cubicle, hanging my head in shame for allowing my computer to essentially contract AIDS (thank you Facebook and Myspace), I got to thinking. Why the hell is the all-time hit leader not in the Hall of Fame?

The last time I checked he didn't put a performance enhancing substance in his body in order to boost his level of play. He didn't purge himself in front of the Supreme Court. I still don't see how my tax dollars need to be spent to figure out who's sticking who in the butt. But I guess that's not my decision is it, George Mitchell?

Pete Rose simply put, had the utmost confidence in his team, that he thought putting a wager on them was a no-brainer and showed true faith in their ability. Did he compromise the integrity of the game? No. Was he in the wrong? Technically, but I'd take what he did over Black Sox (sans Shoeless Joe) scandal any day.

To me there's a big difference between betting on baseball and fixing a game. Eddie Cicotte, Lefty Williams, Happy Felsch, and Swede Risberg deserved to get banned from baseball regardless of their just cause in trying to stick it to Old Man Comiskey. What Mr. Rose did was certainly not the most exemplary thing to do. Although if we're going to let A-Rod back in the game after admitting to tainting himself, the game and any subsequent records that follow; we aren't going to banish one of the BEST hitters of all time to exile and not give him the satisfaction of knowing his hard work paid off with a Cooperstown induction.

Some food for thought: Does Mark McGwire, whom never failed a drug test, belong in the Hall? What about the godson of Willie Mays? The Rocket? Allegedly these three men poisoned this game and our forefathers' records by synthetically altering their bodies. Show me proof!

You show me evidence aside from the 'look at the size of his neck' or 'these numbers aren't humanly possible.' Spare me. As of right now those numbers ARE humanly possible. Maybe these individuals are the next Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, and Cy Young. All I know is that they may look the part, but in this country it's 'innocent until proven guilty.' Right now, however, it seems more like guilty until proven innocent.

I'll leave you with this today. What would the Rat Pack be without Sinatra? Or, what would a trip to Paris be without seeing the Eiffel Tower? It's exactly what the Hall of Fame is without "Charlie Hustle." Incomplete.

Stay Tuned

Ryan

The Krukker

Known for his crude impression of Billy Ray Cyrus's mullet during his playing days with the Phillies, John Kruk is fast becoming one of my most respected opinions as a baseball analyst.

He offers a realistic view into the player lifestyle and persona. Also isn't afraid to give someone a serious tongue lashing when warranted.

Although he had a respectable career (.300 BA, 100 HRs, and 592 RBIs), the Krukker's true calling is as a Baseball tonight analyst. His articulate insight into the game is uncanny and can only be learned through being a student of Baseball for many years.

Krukky is the quintessential analyst/reporter because of his ability to always keep an even keel. He gives his expert opinion just as well as resident baseball uber-god, Peter Gammons.

In the analyst world that tag team of Kruk and Gammons isn't far off from the iconic original Bronx Bombers, Ruth and Gherig. Have to give Krukky the nod as "the Babe" albeit for his not-so-svelte physique.

As far as the rest of the Baseball Tonight staff, its mediocre at best. Karl Ravech is the resident 'pot-stirrer' for the show which does add something, if not for playground banter between Kruk and Gammons. But answer me this ESPN, did you think with the savant that is John Kruk that you'd catch lightning in a bottle with your newest acquisition? Yes I'm talking about you Andre Dawson.

You were a spectacle to behold in the clean-up slot for the Cubbies. But the amount of superfluous fodder that comes out of your mouth makes me want walk in the game winning run with the bases loaded and just go home.

I would like to say thank you to the Krukinator for reporting so diligently and never being candid. All we need is someone who will accurately and more importantly honestly analyze and interpret this game. You are certainly up to the task and I commend you.

Stay Tuned

Ryan

A Needle in the Paystack

After reading Bill Simmons' latest column, I figured I'd offer my two, un-performance enhancing cents.

The 2004 were the most potent offense in history. Even better than the '27 Murderer's Row Yankees and any other team you can think of. Was it all due to hard work, sweat, blood and tears? Almost certainly not.

You have a singles hitter and stolen base threat who gets bigger and hits 20 HR's with one hand and almost drives in 100 runs from the leadoff spot?

A DH that before his emergence in Boston had never hit more than 20 round trippers? Anyone that thinks he was just a diamond in the rough is simply fooling themselves.

A loveable first baseman that was known as an OBP guy drops 20 homers?

A Boston icon in Nomar that although he got traded was clearly on the monumental decline from off-cycling?

Want more?

How about a 5'10'' Dominican that has a 3yr reign during the height of the "Steroid Era" as the best pitcher in baseball and then all of a sudden starts getting nagging injuries and can only top out at 88 mph on the gun? Normal aging process? Fat chance.

The question is: does this taint the World Series in '04 and essentially '07? NOT AT ALL.

Pardon my 4^th grade playground retort but, "Everyone was doing it."

Do the 2 HR's that Giambi hit in Game 7 against the Sox in '03 get thrown out? Nope.

Does the production from: Chuck Knoblauch, Andy Pettite, David Justice, Jason Grimsley and Jose Canseco from the 2000 World Series Champs get discredited? Anyone? Bueller? NOT A CHANCE!

So Pipe down with all this, "you won by cheating" garbage, because atleast one person from every World Series winning team from the time the Sox won theirs has had at least one doper. Don't believe me? Check this out.

1995 Atlanta Braves: David Justice

1996 New York Yankees: Andy Pettitte

1997 Florida Marlins: Gary Sheffield, Kevin Brown

1998 New York Yankees: Chuck Knoblauch, Andy Pettitte

1999 New York Yankees: Roger Clemens, Chuck Knoblauch, Andy Pettitte, Jason Grimsley

2000 New York Yankees: Jose Canseco, Roger Clemens, Chuck Knoblauch, Andy Pettitte, Jason Grimsley, David Justice

2001 Arizona Diamondbacks: Matt Williams

2002 Los Angeles Angels: Troy Glaus

2003 Florida Marlins: Pudge Rodriguez (named in Canseco's book).

2004 Boston Red Sox: Manny Ramirez

Recently, Lou Merloni (former Red Sox) spoke of a closed-door meeting about the proper use of steroids from an unnamed doctor. Of course Dan Duquette is going to refute this with his timeless rhetoric (already did). Whom do I believe? Framingham Lou of course.

But, by this point it was too late. The game was so engulfed in steroids that you had to embrace it. "If you can't beat 'em, join em." And the Sox most likely did exactly that. The doctors showed them how to use them. Although Duquette has professed that this meeting didn't happen it only makes sense that he would at the very least protect his investments whether they were doing something illegal or not. Never mind the ill-effects it could have on your body just make sure you could do it clean. Beantown was supposed to be immune to this sort of conformity right? *NAHT* Borat voice

The question now is: Where do we go from here? It doesn't start at the Major league level it starts at the Little League, Babe Ruth and High School levels. We have to start showing our kids that success and greatness comes from hard work and repetition, NOT a syringe. Maybe this way the next crop of big leaguers will respect the mystique of this game and stop jeopardizing its integrity.

Stay Tuned

Ryan

Evan Almighty

For years now Alex Rodriguez, tainted or not, has been the class of the league at the hot corner with David Wright taking the silver medal. Now A Rod isn't even the best 3^rd basemen in the AL East. In, step Evan Longoria.

Had he not have gone on the DL from a fastball to the wrist, (which he healed at a Secret World of Alex Mack like pace)he would have hit 30 dingers and driven in 100 RBI's. We are watching an inner circle Hall of Famer blossom right before our very eyes.

He plays the game with the enthusiasm of a Little Leaguer, be it that he isn't that far removed, and the charisma of Ozzie Guillen. This is refreshing to see. With all the 'roid rage and abusers of PED's it doesn't get much more pure than Evan Longoria.

Being a diehard Sox fan who watches every game means I get my fill of Longoria for approximately 18-20 games per year. And although I'm swearing and throwing shoes at my television there's the baseball history connoisseur in me that's glowing with ecstasy. It is a privilege as a spectator to be able to see a reincarnated version of Mike Schmidt from the '70's right before our very eyes.

His effortless swing, and elegance in the field has been on full display on the biggest stage. In 10 games vs. my beloved Red Sox he has torched us for more than HALF (24) of his league leading RBI total (44), more than half of his HR's (6) and he's hitting over .300 with a OPS of .975. *cold shiver down spine*

Longoria is 2^nd in the league in HR's behind his teammate Carlos Pena, 1^st in RBI's and tied for 4^th in batting. Triple Crown in the making? Wouldn't put it past him. I haven't seen a ballplayer that can impact the game so much on both sides of the ball since Junior, Griffey 1995. Before that? The aforementioned Mike Schmidt.

In a game riddled with lying, deceitfulness, and robust contracts that aren't worthy Evan Longoria is the new breed of ball player. With help from: Hanley Ramirez, Dustin Pedroia, Joe Mauer, Justin Morneau, Josh Hamilton, Carlos Quentin and Ryan Braun; I think we have entered into the post-Steroid Era. The post-Steroid Era is where the stolen base and squeeze bunts and steals of home come to roost. Sac Flies, and hit and runs are in the back of all the players minds. Where a home run isn't a forgone conclusion. And where the real baseball players shine. This group, headlined by Longoria, has all the makings of a fast and truthful track all the way to Cooperstown.

Stay Tuned

Ryan

The HCG Effect

The baseball world was rocked yet again with another bombshell yesterday. Manny Ramirez tested positive for a banned substance. But, NO it wasn't steroids. And it was in fact a performance enhancer. Manny just wanted to swing his stick better so he turned to HCG or Human Chorionic Gonodrotopin. Of course the stick I'm talking about isn't made by Louisville and was a crude attempt at an erectile dysfunction joke, but I'm not the one in question here.

I'm still not sold on his guilt. That being said that could change within the minute if something new breaks but I am sort of on board with Bob Ryan's opinion. If there is ONE person in this league that could take something and not know its effects Manny would most likely be that guy. He is best known for his on/off-field antics and this could just be another one. I am not naïve. I know that any person in baseball could be taking steroids or PED's but how about a few facts that can at least attempt to support my theory.

Steroids DON'T make you a better hitter, BOTTOM LINE. What they do is make you a more powerful hitter IF you make contact.

Steroids DON'T enhance your hand-eye coordination. That's god-given and Manny has probably the best knowledge of the strike zone.

Manny has passed approximately 15 drug tests over recent seasons.

I know what you're thinking. This doesn't really prove anything. Ya know what? You're right. But how about this, when someone that knows baseball thinks Manny Ramirez what do they think of. Right-Center field gap power. That is the easiest way to tell if someone is a slugger or if they are a pure hitter, by their ability to hit to the opposite field with authority. Manny's spray chart shows that he has more opposite field home runs than ANYONE in Major League Baseball over his career. Go find McGwire, Palmiero, and Sosa's charts and you will see 75% or more of their home runs were to Center and Left. This means that Manny stands alone in seeing the baseball deeper into the hitting zone to hit the ball the other way. The knack of a true hitter.

I heard an asinine comment from Mike Felger (total shocker) from Thursday's Dale and Holley show on WEEI. His exact words were, "Surprise, Surprise, another Dominican player tested positive for steroids." As ignorant and as racist as that is, I'm not sure that it's that far from the truth. With the esteemed Angel Presinal being from the Dominican and Manny having a home in Miami he very easily could have made the excursion to the home land.

There is the alternative though that he did do steroids and HCG would be the PERFECT chemical to cycle off your PED's with. It is a known fact that after excessive Steroid use your testicles shrink. Which, one, leads me to believe that Jose Canseco may look castrated, and two this would cause Manny's impotency and therefore his need for something to spike his sex drive. If I'm not mistaken Viagra is legal for MLB players and if he would have taken that he would have been in the clear. Canseco has went on record saying that he would give it a 90% certainty that Manny was on that list of the unnamed test that leaded A-Rod's name to the public. The prophet strikes again!

If MLB is still looking into this, which they should be, and it comes back that the doctor prescribed it to him unknowingly that would now be two suspensions for players that would not have been warranted. The other being Phillies reliever JC Romero. Something will need to be done because ball players don't have the normal tenure of "the working man" they work for approximately 20 years (if they're lucky) and that's it. If people are getting suspended for unjust causes, that's money, time and passion that they are losing and that's probably the most unethical part of all.

One of the more concerning things to me was the reaction of David Ortiz. A staunch supporter of the drug testing policy and anti-steroids he said, "It's confusing man, some things are on the list and some things, aren't. You just have to be careful." Playing like someone who is clearly on the decline (or off of steroids for the first time) it sounds as if he's changing his stance because a friend was nabbed. We already have flip floppers in Washington Papi, we don't need them in Boston as well. Ortiz who was surprisingly upbeat earlier in the week despite being mired in his season long slump was very sullen in that interview. Whether it be because a friend is in pain or he feels in danger that he might be caught this may open floodgates.

Maybe, Manny is taking this whole thing in stride by not saying a word and taking responsibility for his actions or inactions for that matter. But if it were me and I know for sure that I was not taking anything to enhance my performance (outside of the bedroom) I would be in Bud Selig's office right now pleading my case and filing appeal after appeal after appeal.

The major difference for me between this fiasco and the A-Rod debacle for me, is that he wasn't so anti-doping prior to and didn't call attention to himself (Katie Couric interview) to try to boldface lie in order to deflect the negative PR that comes with being a steroid abuser. I'm still not sure if Manny did it, and hopefully for his sake, and baseball's it comes back that it was a 50 game misunderstanding. But right now, like the Magic 8-Ball says, "All signs point to yes."

Stay Tuned

Ryan

Around the Bases

Sometimes there are too many topics, and to just write about one would be unfair to you all. So here's my version of a baseball Potpourri.

First and foremost, I would like to extend my deepest sympathies and well-wishes to Jerry Remy. The "Rem-Dawg" as Red Sox Nation knows him is taking an indefinite leave of absence from the booth, due to complications from Cancer Surgery. He went on record saying, "I hope that disclosing my bout with cancer will reinforce that dangers of smoking to every member of Red Sox Nation, especially children." A classy move, from an even classier man. Get well soon. And for all my tobacco wielding readers, think twice before you light up again.

Second, it came to light that on May 7^th Manny Ramirez will be suspended for 50 games due to the use of Performance Enhancing Drugs. In my previous article "Bottom of the Ninth: Where Have All the Heroes Gone?" I professed that Manny is one of the clean players in baseball. Although I'm not completely sold on his guilt (yet), when is all this stuff going to stop? I will have my in depth opinion on this for Monday's blog so if you're interested make sure you check back in. Play baseball for the love of the game, not some macho-man fantasy of being a slugger. If you are meant to break records, you'll break them.

Third, is anyone else noticing what the Royals and Zach Greinke are doing? These guys are for real. Greinke is throwing out of his mind and is already drawing Cy Young talk (6-0, .40 ERA, 54 K's). He ranks number one in the following categories: Wins, Strikeouts, Win %, WHIP, and Complete Games (3). He isn't just beating teams he's shredding their lineups and his changeup is laughing at them as it sails by. The Royals as a whole have power (Gordon, Jacobs, Guillen), speed (Crisp, Dejesus) pitching (Greinke, Bannister, Meche) and a lights-out closer (Soria). Look out baseball, Kansas City is back on the map for the unforeseeable future.

Lastly, if you haven't heard of Steven Strasburg, get to know him. The Nationals have already made it known that they highly covet this righty and intend to sign him at the draft for some astronomical Scott Boras like figure. He is 10-0 for San Diego State University, has a fastball that has hit 102, and has struck out 147 batters in 78.1 IP. Although many uber-prospects have been a bust, something tells me the lowly Nats deserve a break.

Stay Tuned

Ryan

Despicable

Once upon a time a bastard child was born in Lincoln, Nebraska with the given name Justin Louis Heath. He was born to a broken home that was encaged with drug abuse, a bout of polio, and a name change. Who is this man you ask? Justin "Joba" Chamberlain.

This flame throwing righty was drafted 41^st overall by the Yankees in '06 and probably rose a little too quickly through their ranks.

Two years later he is now thrust into the starting rotation without ever having won 10 games total in the minors. He has lost 4-5 mph on his fastball, and his slider is not as sharp since his transition from the bullpen. Chamberlain also had the misfortune of being mentored by a tyrant that made it known that, "if his pregnant wife was crowding the plate, he'd sit her on her ass." This is of course the 'oh so innocent' Roger Clemens.

While watching the installments of "The Empire" vs. "The Nation" over the last two years, I have seen nothing but controversy surrounding this bum. In one at-bat he threw over the head of Red Sox first sacker not once but twice, leading to the first (of what will probably be many) ejection of his career. In his next start against the Sox his "aim" was a tad better and he plunked Youkilis in the upper arm.

During this offseason he got arrested for a DWI. While being interrogated he proceeded to crack jokes about one of the most famous Bombers of all-time, Yogi Berra. This kid is a punk and needs to be taken down a few notches.

Tuesday night didn't start off well for him (4 R 1 IP) but then struck out 12 in his next 4 2/3 innings of work. With that many K's in his outing you'd think he'd have his control working, right? WRONG! After a long and ultimately productive (Base on Balls) by David Ortiz, Joba chose a new target. He drilled J-Bay right in the numbers, in what could not have been more blatantly obvious fashion.

Although a classless move, from a baseball players prospective this didn't make my DBoTN Award (Douche Bag of The Night). After he recorded the first two outs in the sixth, Girardi (Worst Yankee Skipper in history) went to the bullpen. The crowd gave him a Standing-O. It is then customary that you give a slight tip of the cap and exit into the dugout/clubhouse. This barbarian beat his chest (34 C) with his glove and then pointed to the crowd. Probably some horrific attempt at a shout out to the well bundled Spike Lee that was in attendance.

Wait a minute! He did what? Yes, you heard me.

When did a player with fewer wins than Bob Barker does sexual harassment lawsuits become bigger than the game of baseball? The Yankees already have one player that fitst that M.O. And his name is Alex Rodriguez, or B***h T**s if you will, and we see how things are going for him right now. *gives disapproving shake of head*

Pay your dues kid! You're far from the best pitcher in baseball and/or the best pitcher on your team for that matter. Jeter better show you how to be a "Yankee" quick because your parading around as a thug is going to be stopped quickly. If I can steal a line from Rocky IV, the next time Beckett is on the mound a subtle "I must break you" 96 mph heater will be in your number 4 hitters bread box. But what can you expect with a mother like this.

Yeesh, No denying who he belongs to.

Stay Tuned

Ryan

The Up-and Comers

Baseball is a sport for men, but you've got to have a lot of little boy in you. There are a lot of players in their first few years in the game that have caught my eye and could be on the fast track to super-stardom. Here's my lineup: *crowd roaring*

Leading Off~ Dexter Fowler CF

Batting second~ Gordon Beckham 2B

Batting third~ Matthew Wieters C

Batting Cleanup~ Chris Davis 1B

Batting Fifth~ Pablo Sandoval 3B

Batting Sixth~ Jay Bruce RF

Batting Seventh~ Elvis Andrus SS

Batting Eighth~ Jordan Schafer LF

Starting Pitcher~ Tommy Hanson

Closer~ Daniel Bard

Fowler~ This speedster for the Rockies is bringing the art of the stolen base back with style. 9 SB's through 22 games has him near the league lead and being able to cover a lot of ground in a fly ball happy park Coors Field is exactly what this Fantasy team neads.

Beckham~ Heavily touted by the "big club's" skipper (Ozzie Guillen) Beckham is a five-tool player. He is batting a chin hair under .300 (.299) for the White Sox AA affiliate and has an OPS of .896. Shortstop by trade, but the South Siders want him for 2^nd base, in fantasy world he would probably get the occasional start at SS and become eligible in both positions.

Wieters~ This catcher has been hailed as Joe Mauer with Morneau power. He hits from both sides of the plate and if not for the "business of baseball" he would be starting over journeyman Greg Zaun. His gaudy 2008 stats were: .355 BA 27 HR's and 91 RBI's. The O's have themselves a legitimate backstop for years to come if they can keep a player of his caliber under contract.

Davis~ Although off to a slow start in 2009, 2008 saw an emerging slugger in Arlington. 17 HRs in 80 games begs the question, what would his first full season bring? Hitting in a star studded lineup (Michael Young, Ian Kinsler, and Josh Hamilton) should reward Davis ample opportunities to drive in runs. First base is his for as long as the Rangers want him.

Sandoval~ This grip-and-rip slugger from San Fran is a clean-up hitter in the making. Thus far in '09 the third baseman is hitting .319 and emerging as the only power source in an anemic Giant lineup. Also having the versatility to play 1B and Catcher makes him a coach's dream and an invaluable member to your organization.

Bruce~ Playing on what could be a contender in October Jay Bruce is the only power bat the Red Legs have left in their outfield. With 6 HRs through Tuesday he is on pace to hit 30+ and that definitely gets him a spot on my "up and comer" squad.

Andrus~ This slick fielding rookie SS for the rangers moved their resident All-Star SS (Michael Young) to 3B. He's gotta be good, right? Precisely. He may need a year of seasoning at the big league level to adjust to the pitching but with the way this young man throws the leather around there is NO other SS his age capable of getting to the balls that he does. Gotta be strong up the middle to win in this league!

Schafer~ Anyone who hits an HR in his first AB should at least get some consideration. I'm not sure what it is about this kid but I'm jumping on his bandwagon. He's got a short little left hand stroke and is a plus defender who is capable of playing EVERY outfield slot. He may not hit .300 as a rookie but this kid is going to be a stud.

Hanson~ If it weren't for the Braves pitching staff throwing lights out right now, Tommy "gun" Hanson woulde be their number four starter. The firevalling 2yr old has a 1.69 ERA and 38 K's in 26 IP. If anyone falters Hanson will be on the first train to the 'Dirty South'.

Bard~ As far as closers in the making Daniel Bard fits the bill. He's got a triple-digits fastball, knee buckling slider, and compliment that with surgical like accuracy . When Papelbon leaves at the end of the season because the Sox won't pay him what he "thinks" he's worth (see K-Rod contract 3yr 37 mil). Why pay someone that when you have a farm system practically giving you someone else younger who throws harder? No brainer to me. In steps Bard, out steps Paps and once again the boy genius that is Theo Epstein will be proven that he is the best GM in baseball.

Yes there were players that I didn't mention, Matt Laporta, David Price, and Rick Porcello just to name a few. But that just goes to show, how rich the talent pool is for these boys of summer. Who's going to be in our children's dreams and on our fantasy teams for years to come? I wouldn't be against any of these young men to be the poster boys of the league in 5 years time.

Stay Tuned

Ryan

Mr. .400

68 years ago was the last time someone hit .400 in a baseball season. People have tried, people have failed. The closest was Tony Gwynn in the strike-shortened 1994 season. He hit .394 before the strike erased 45 games from his schedule. But close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades, right? So who now could become part of baseball history? One person on my list may surprise you.

Ichiro Suzuki~ Although he turns 36 this year there is no sign of a let up from this lefty. Since 2001, his inception into "the Show", he has not hit under .300. He has exceptional hand-eye coordination and a keen eye for the strike zone. Because of Ichiro's work ethic and outstanding bat control he will ALWAYS be around the top of the league in hits and average. Also has the 2^nd highest active career batting average behind the next man on our list.

Albert Pujols~ Pretty much numero uno in every facet of the game, Albert Pujols has all the tools to be a .400 hitter. Power to all fields, can hit to the opposite field, takes his walks, and doesn't swing at a pitch outside the strike zone. Albert also has the highest active career batting average at .334. In 2008, Albert Pujols was voted as the games "Most Feared Hitter" by the managers.

Robinson Cano~ Despite not being as "big" of a name as the first two players on this list, this young, budding star is a batting champ in the making. With a swing reminiscent of Rod Carew his balance and bat control is something to behold. Robinson has already finished 2^nd in the league in batting once during his second year in the Majors. Look for more contention in the upcoming seasons.

Kevin Youkilis~ The one shocker on this list goes to this man. He has an ugly stance, ugly swing, and is not afraid to share it but it would only be fitting for a Red Sox to be on this list. We all know that he is not Manny Ramirez. There aren't a lot of players that can do what Manny does with a bat in their hands. That being said, Kevin Youkilis has the highest batting average in all of baseball through the first month of the season at .407. Another interesting stat is P/PA: pitches per plate appearance. He has the highest p/pa avg. in the league at 4.2 (Pujols 3.34, Ichiro 3.17, and Cano 3.28). What this equates to is being able to be at the plate longer for a pitcher to make a mistake.

It should be interesting to see how the rest of the season turns out. But one thing is for sure, the hits will keep on coming for this quartet.

Stay Tuned

Ryan

OOPS

The bracket that I made wouldn't publish but here's the play by play.
The Rays and Rangers in the first round...
The Readers Digest version is that good pitching beats good hitting all day.
The Red Sox vs. the Royals...
The Red Sox have the advantage despite Greinke being a force on the mound. Sox in 5.
Dodgers and Cardinals...
Pujols Pujols Pujols, he owns the Dodgers Pitching staff. they'll take em out in 4
Cubs vs. Mets
Sorry Cub fans, Johan and the high powered offense complimented by a revamped 'pen have you

LCS's
Sox vs. Rays
I don't care how much they spank the Sox in the regular season (They will win the season series probably 12-6 or 13-7) I don't see them being able to beat Beckett, Lester and Smoltzy. another 7 game epic.

Mets vs. Cardinals
Sorry STL but the 'Amazins' are going to cake walk through you. Mets in 5.

World Series
Sox vs. Mets
In a rematch of the '86 WS this should be a great series. The Mets will win the 2 games that Santana pitches but I think the Sox win in 6. Sorry to all the Jordan's furniture customers. No sweep this year.

Youth Be Told

Want to know why we have problems with the Rays? One word: Youth. They have young speed, young power, young pitching, and a youthful defense. For the same reason why Dustin Pedroia is so exciting to watch, aside from the "Dustin vs. Goliath" commercials, is the entire Rays' team is full of vibrance and exuberance (how's that for "ances") or a team full of Pedroia's.

They get intense, excited, serious, focused and play phenomenal defense, all the things that real baseball players need.

The pitching staff from St. Pete is a little out of sorts right now. But, if the start from Garza against a team that had won 11 of 12 games is any indication on how this season series is going to go. Take cover Sox fans you're about to get dominated, or Garza'd if you will. The defending AL champs STILL have the youngest starting staff in the league. Anchored by "Big Game" James (Jury's still out), Scott Kazmir, the aforementioned Garza, Sonnanstine, and let us not forget about the Stud they have waiting in the wings in Durham, David Price.

Upton and Longoria, FLAT OUT STUDS. Crawford, great speed and veteran leadership for someone that isn't even 30 yet! Maybe the least recognized "big" move this offseason was the trade for Matt Joyce. This kid has 35 HR's written all over him (next year) and should be a force to reckon with in twenty-ten.

This team WILL continue to give us problems all year long. With their relentless running attack (Crawford 6 steals on Sunday)and the Red Sox having a Catcher with a below league avg arm; A single turns into a double and even a triple for some of the people on their team. They don't give up and when their pitching turns around…It's going to be scary. Which is why I chose them to win the AL EAST. But the Playoffs are a WHOLE OTHER ANIMAL.

This, however brings me to my next segment. Prediction time: DA DA DA DANANA *trumpet sound from
FIGURE IT OUT* circa 1998.

AL East-Rays 94 Wins

AL Central- Royals 91 Wins

AL West- Rangers 86 Wins (LAA can't overcome that many injuries)

AL Wildcard-Red Sox 92 Wins (Hotly contested by CHW, NYY, and Min)

NL East- Mets 92 Wins

NL Central- Cubs 94 Wins

NL West- Dodgers 97 Wins

NL Wildcard- Cardinals 88 Wins

 

Reminiscent of March Madness I have made out a bracket that is most likely destined to die a slow and painful death but this is what I see happening in this years MLB Playoffs

And if you're saying to yourself, "This is just another STUPID Sox fan." I say this to you. JOHN SMOLTZ. He is a physical Freak. Not to be confused with Tim "The Freak" Lincecum. This guy is one of the ALL TIME greatest post season performers and is back for one more round. And to the Yankee fans. Yes, you spent almost a half BILLION dollars *Dr Evil Voice*. But your team is Old. You have probably the WORST defensive outfield in the majors, your catcher is deteriorating (ala Jason Varitek), and your best player B---h T- - s is now going through more ridicule than Michael Jackson at Chuck E' Cheese.

The Rays and Red Sox if it should come down to it will probably go ANOTHER 7 games and be just as exciting as last year. But I wouldn't want to be the Rays and have to face Beckett, Lester, and Smoltz in the same series. Could be an uphill battle.

Stay Tuned

Ryan

Where Have All the Heroes Gone?

It has just surfaced today (thank you Selena Roberts) that Alex Rodriguez may have been on the "juice" starting in high school AND while being a member of the New York Yankees. Is it not enough that you were handed a god-given ability to rake a baseball, but you had to be the best player on the planet via a syringe? C'Mon!

Two nameless players in the Yankee clubhouse have went on record saying "they believed A-Rod was using based on side effects they saw - and a clubhouse staffer said management wondered if he was using banned substances." He also earned the name *pardon me ladies* "Bitch Tits." If the rumors are true this could be a side effect of anabolic steroids called gynecomastia.

The Mitchell Report has not named all of the players that were on the list, and few players have come forward stating their involvement with PED's. But I'll say this. I don't want to know. Baseball is sacred. There are things in the game that should and will never be touched. It's integrity is one of them. If those players are named it taints the game even more than the hubbub surrounding Alex Rodriguez, Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa etc.

Growing up watching baseball they were all like superheroes to me. Completely oblivious and naïve to any Big League Ballplayer using drugs I thought that the Home Run Race between Big Mac and Slammin Sammy was the most exciting thing and reminiscent of 1961 or *61 if you will between The Mick and The Hick (Roger Maris). Baseball players nowadays do some amazing things. But, how much of that is indicative to the drugs that they have taken?

You want to hear amazing? How about a 56 game hitting streak? Don't see that one being broken anytime soon. How about hitting 61 Home Runs in a City that breathes for the person that holds the record and the person you're competing with to break it. How about playing in 2632 consecutive games? No one will break that record while I'm alive. How about playing through multiple leg injuries and a stomach virus to hit a Walk-Off Homerun off of a future hall of famer?

You want to hear amazing? Try throwing 7 no hitters in a career. Want more? Try breaking the color barrier! Try hitting 756 career Home Runs (No I'm not talking about you Barry Lamar Bonds). These are the heroes in my book. That is god-given ability at its finest. They didn't have PED's or HGH then and look what they did. Is there anyone left that signifies what baseball is about? Is there anyone that is going to take this country on their back and show them how to Hit, Field, and be a role model to young Americans?

I have read José Canseco's book Juiced and although he is a HORRIFIC writer I'm starting to think that this man is more of a soothsayer than we think. He told us that Rafael "I did NOT take steroids period" Palmiero took steroids. He gets caught 3 months later. Ivan Rodriguez goes from looking like Schwarzenegger to Pedroia in a matter of months. I don't need to remind you that "I'm not here to talk about the past." (ugh Mark McGwire)

I understand why you took them. They work, plain and simple. If they didn't work people wouldn't take them. Baseball players have to use their bodies for every facet of their job. They know damn-well what they are putting into their bodies.

I can think of a handful of players off the top of my head that I believe that are clean…(aside from the obvious)

-Ken Griffey Jr. (One of the sweetest things in baseball history)

-Jim Thome (Not sure if its because he could be Roger Maris, but he's clean)

-Albert Pujols (He has had the fear of God put into him… literally)

Players that unfortunately don't make my clean list

-Nomar Garciaparra (Sorry Sox fans you saw the cover of SI)

-Miguel Tejada (Funny how he can't speak English when he's accused of taking steroids)

-Shea Hillenbrand (he hit 30 bombs one year and did he hit 30 total in his next 6 yrs in the bigs?)

So this is my response to you Alex Roidriguez. You should be ashamed. You had/have the talent. What's wrong with only hitting 400 HR's in the Major Leagues? Is that so bad? You needed to hit 800? You have publicly lied (or deliberately evaded the truth). You were only sorry that you got caught. Not that you took them. EVERY accomplishment you get from here on out deserves and asterisk*. This goes not only for you but for all other users. No one player is "bigger" than the game and although you're trying you will reap what you sew.

Stay Tuned

Ryan