We are in-between holidays. All the TV shows are re-runs. There's no news going on with the Red Sox. The Patriots have a meaningless game on Sunday. It's just a slow week.
I was reading the paper & just happen to run across the name of "Hickman." Hickman's happened to be the sponsor on my Little League team many, many years ago. It reminded me of a lot of basics that I learned - teamwork, proper technique, practice & the value of hard work. We played hard to win each game, but if we didn't my coach was OK - as long as we had a positive attitude & put out our best effort.
To all the coaches in Little League, Pony League, Babe Ruth League & youth leagues of all sports who instill in players that it's your attitude & effort that counts - I thank you. You are teaching lessons that will help kids throughout their life. It sure helped me.
Happy New Years! All the best for 2011!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Podcast Being Worked On
The recent podcast of December 23rd is on the blog, but the software is not allowing our readers to listen to it.
It is being worked on & hopefully corrected in the next day or two.
Thanks for your patience.
It is being worked on & hopefully corrected in the next day or two.
Thanks for your patience.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Super Bowl Goes Through Foxborough
The Patriots took advantage of many miscues by the Buffalo Bills on their way to wrapping up the AFC East Championship. Their win insures a first round bye & home field advantage throughout the playoffs.
Most impressive was the Patriots running game & turnovers forced by the Pats "D." As a few friends have mentioned, you just hope that the Patriots have not peaked too soon. Baltimore is coming on hard over the past few weeks. Then you have the usual suspects in the Steelers, Jets & Colts.
I thought Brady got up pretty slow after a few runs in yesterday's game. Hope his health is not an issue, especially since most sportscasters feel that the Patriots will go as deep in the playoffs as Brady & the offense will take them.
It should be an interesting playoff season.
Most impressive was the Patriots running game & turnovers forced by the Pats "D." As a few friends have mentioned, you just hope that the Patriots have not peaked too soon. Baltimore is coming on hard over the past few weeks. Then you have the usual suspects in the Steelers, Jets & Colts.
I thought Brady got up pretty slow after a few runs in yesterday's game. Hope his health is not an issue, especially since most sportscasters feel that the Patriots will go as deep in the playoffs as Brady & the offense will take them.
It should be an interesting playoff season.
Friday, December 24, 2010
Johnny Damon Back to NY?
So much for the Detroit Tigers love me & how he wanted to stay there. After 1 season in Motown Johnny Damon is looking for work.
A free agent, Damon is fielding offers from the Angels, Rays & Yankees. He would only be a part-time player in New York, but Johnny has a tendancy to go for the biggest paycheck. His former employer may have a biggest checkbook, given their lack of signings. Damon would fit in as another 30-something on an aging roster.
You may remember that the Red Sox put in a waiver bid on Damon last year. He declined to come back to Boston after playing for the Yankees & being treated as a traitor in Fenway Park for 4 years. Some fans don't forgive.
Say what you want about his signing with the Yankees, but Johnny Damon always played hard, played hurt & was an excellent teammate in Boston for his 4 years. He was also the leader of the 2004 "idiots" who brought Boston the first World Series Championship in 86 years. Maybe that's how Red Sox fans will remember him once his playing days are over.
A free agent, Damon is fielding offers from the Angels, Rays & Yankees. He would only be a part-time player in New York, but Johnny has a tendancy to go for the biggest paycheck. His former employer may have a biggest checkbook, given their lack of signings. Damon would fit in as another 30-something on an aging roster.
You may remember that the Red Sox put in a waiver bid on Damon last year. He declined to come back to Boston after playing for the Yankees & being treated as a traitor in Fenway Park for 4 years. Some fans don't forgive.
Say what you want about his signing with the Yankees, but Johnny Damon always played hard, played hurt & was an excellent teammate in Boston for his 4 years. He was also the leader of the 2004 "idiots" who brought Boston the first World Series Championship in 86 years. Maybe that's how Red Sox fans will remember him once his playing days are over.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Pap Still the Closer
Bobby Jenks was officially introduced yesterday as the newest member of the Sox bullpen. During the press conference Theo went out of his way to clarify that Jonathan Papelbon is still the team's closer. Gentlemen, start your engines on the Pap watch!
With Jenks, Wheeler & Bard in the fold one school of thought is that the Sox will trade Papelbon & let one of these 3 guys emerge as the closer. A trade may be tough to do as Pap will probably earn $10-$12 million via arbitration. Hard to move that big a salary.
The more likely route is that Pap returns & is motivated to put the 2010 season behind him. Last year's ERA & blown saves were Cinco Ocho's all-time worst. Time to use all 3 pitches again with good location.
Come the trade deadline in July, however, the Sox might try to move Pap if he is not performing - just to get something in return. With free agency looming in 2012 it's very probable that this is Pap's last year in a Red Sox uniform.
With Jenks, Wheeler & Bard in the fold one school of thought is that the Sox will trade Papelbon & let one of these 3 guys emerge as the closer. A trade may be tough to do as Pap will probably earn $10-$12 million via arbitration. Hard to move that big a salary.
The more likely route is that Pap returns & is motivated to put the 2010 season behind him. Last year's ERA & blown saves were Cinco Ocho's all-time worst. Time to use all 3 pitches again with good location.
Come the trade deadline in July, however, the Sox might try to move Pap if he is not performing - just to get something in return. With free agency looming in 2012 it's very probable that this is Pap's last year in a Red Sox uniform.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
A Christmas Story - Of Sorts
It was the night before Spring Training. Not a creature was sturring, not even an annoying pick-up with an "NY" sticker plastered on its back.
Visions of 2004 & 2007 danced in my head. On Youk, on Pedroia & Big Papi rang a Christmas bell. On Gonzo, on Crawford & Saltie as well.
As I watched Theo, Tito & players move out of sight to Fort Myers, I heard George Steinbrenner's voice say "Merry Christmas to all" & "my boys are getting coal this year."
Happy holidays! 2 months to Spring Training...
Visions of 2004 & 2007 danced in my head. On Youk, on Pedroia & Big Papi rang a Christmas bell. On Gonzo, on Crawford & Saltie as well.
As I watched Theo, Tito & players move out of sight to Fort Myers, I heard George Steinbrenner's voice say "Merry Christmas to all" & "my boys are getting coal this year."
Happy holidays! 2 months to Spring Training...
Monday, December 20, 2010
Green Bay Gives Pats A Fight
Trap game. Pushover game. A rookie QB. The New England Patriots made a defensive stand at the end of last night's game to take home a hard-fought win 31-27 over the Green Bay Packers at Foxborough. It wasn't pretty at times, but a win is a win.
Give both teams credit. The Pack started the game by recovering a surprise on-side kick. That sent a strong message to the Patriots that the cheeseheads from Wisconsin meant business & were not going to lay down & play dead. The Patriots offense came alive in the 4th quarter & the Pats "D" made one last stand with a big sack as time ran out.
Green Bay did lose, but they can build on a game where they were just one play or two away from a huge upset win.
And the Patriots know that, despite several miscues, they got the necessary win. Sloppy play & multiple penalties, however, will not get them far into the playoffs.
Give both teams credit. The Pack started the game by recovering a surprise on-side kick. That sent a strong message to the Patriots that the cheeseheads from Wisconsin meant business & were not going to lay down & play dead. The Patriots offense came alive in the 4th quarter & the Pats "D" made one last stand with a big sack as time ran out.
Green Bay did lose, but they can build on a game where they were just one play or two away from a huge upset win.
And the Patriots know that, despite several miscues, they got the necessary win. Sloppy play & multiple penalties, however, will not get them far into the playoffs.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Sox Get Dan Wheeler
Nice going, Theo.
Dan Wheeler is another great arm for the rebuilding of the Boston bullpen. He had 3 great years in Tampa Bay pitching the 7th & 8th innings of games. He signs a 1-year deal with a club option for 2012.
The bullpen now features Atchison, Albers, Dubront, Jenks, Wheeler, Bard & Papelbon. Not bad, hah! There are several more arms in the minors - including Andrew Miller & Lenny Dinardo - as lefties. I think you always need 2 lefties in the pen against the Yankees.
The news keeps getting better for 2011.
Dan Wheeler is another great arm for the rebuilding of the Boston bullpen. He had 3 great years in Tampa Bay pitching the 7th & 8th innings of games. He signs a 1-year deal with a club option for 2012.
The bullpen now features Atchison, Albers, Dubront, Jenks, Wheeler, Bard & Papelbon. Not bad, hah! There are several more arms in the minors - including Andrew Miller & Lenny Dinardo - as lefties. I think you always need 2 lefties in the pen against the Yankees.
The news keeps getting better for 2011.
Where's Manny?
One of the names missing for the free agent conversation is Manny Ramirez.
Manny flamed out in LA after his female steroid problem. Then he went to the White Sox as the player who was going to get them into the playoffs. That never happened. He ended up a part-time player.
Has Manny's $20 million a year finally come to an end? Oh, yes.
Have his antics to create animosity among players & coaches in Boston & LA finally caught up to him? Maybe. There still may be a team or two out there willing to take a chance that his talent to hit may be worth sacrificing team unity. But it won't be at $20 million a year. Perhaps Manny's ego can't take that.
Don't look back, Manny. Theo's not calling.
Manny flamed out in LA after his female steroid problem. Then he went to the White Sox as the player who was going to get them into the playoffs. That never happened. He ended up a part-time player.
Has Manny's $20 million a year finally come to an end? Oh, yes.
Have his antics to create animosity among players & coaches in Boston & LA finally caught up to him? Maybe. There still may be a team or two out there willing to take a chance that his talent to hit may be worth sacrificing team unity. But it won't be at $20 million a year. Perhaps Manny's ego can't take that.
Don't look back, Manny. Theo's not calling.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Albers In, Jenks Almost In
The Red Sox officially added Matt Albers to the bullpen by signing him to a 1-year deal. Former White Sox closer Bobby Jenks is close to signing a 2-year, $12 million deal with the Sox pending a physical.
Albers & Jenks add new arms to a depleted bullpen with the departures of Delcarmen, Ramirez & Okajima. Andrew Miller, a lefty from the Marlins, is another arm who came to the Sox in exchange for Dustin Richardson. Like Jerry Remy says, get 5 or 6 out there & see who sticks.
The addition of Jenks gives Boston more options with Jonathan Papelbon who will be arbitration eligible to make $10-$11 million this coming year. Pap's time in a Boston uniform is coming to an end, but I'd like him to stay since it's a contract year & he will be highly motivated to perform. Same can be said for motivation in a contract year with J.D. Drew & Big Papi.
I don't think anyone can argue that Theo has done a great job this off-season.
Albers & Jenks add new arms to a depleted bullpen with the departures of Delcarmen, Ramirez & Okajima. Andrew Miller, a lefty from the Marlins, is another arm who came to the Sox in exchange for Dustin Richardson. Like Jerry Remy says, get 5 or 6 out there & see who sticks.
The addition of Jenks gives Boston more options with Jonathan Papelbon who will be arbitration eligible to make $10-$11 million this coming year. Pap's time in a Boston uniform is coming to an end, but I'd like him to stay since it's a contract year & he will be highly motivated to perform. Same can be said for motivation in a contract year with J.D. Drew & Big Papi.
I don't think anyone can argue that Theo has done a great job this off-season.
I Like Ryan Lavarnway
Ok, he's an Ivy League catcher from Yale. But he did have the best HR's per AB ratio in the college ranks. He's a big guy at 6'5" & he throws well. I'm sure the Sox would like to see him mature a little more at Double-A or Triple-A.
Ryan Lavarnway is a kid to remember as a future big leaguer. He's a power-hitting catcher that I saw play in the Arizona Fall League this year. (He happen to hit a home run that game.) I really liked what I saw, both offensively & defensively. Unlike the Dusty Brown's, he can hit & hit for power.
If the Sox thought a beat-up Russell Martin was the answer to keeping a 3rd catcher around, I'd put a vote in for Lavarnway if the need arises. He might just surprise everyone.
Ryan Lavarnway is a kid to remember as a future big leaguer. He's a power-hitting catcher that I saw play in the Arizona Fall League this year. (He happen to hit a home run that game.) I really liked what I saw, both offensively & defensively. Unlike the Dusty Brown's, he can hit & hit for power.
If the Sox thought a beat-up Russell Martin was the answer to keeping a 3rd catcher around, I'd put a vote in for Lavarnway if the need arises. He might just surprise everyone.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Overbay to Pirates, Rivera Back in Pinstripes
Lyle Overbay played the last 5 years for the Toronto Blue Jays. He signed a 1-year contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates & will return to the NL in 2011. Good for Red Sox fans. Overbay could be a little like Carlos Pena when it came to beating the Red Sox.
The Yankees re-signed closer Mariano Rivera for 2-years at $30 million. Rivera, who performed like a machine for many years, looked more human last year as he blew several save opportunities. Rivera is still a very good closer, but age is catching up to him like several of his Yankee teammates. The Yankees keep getting older.
The AL East is shaping up to be a Red Sox - Yankees race again. However, in this race for 2011, the Sox have the younger legs.
The Yankees re-signed closer Mariano Rivera for 2-years at $30 million. Rivera, who performed like a machine for many years, looked more human last year as he blew several save opportunities. Rivera is still a very good closer, but age is catching up to him like several of his Yankee teammates. The Yankees keep getting older.
The AL East is shaping up to be a Red Sox - Yankees race again. However, in this race for 2011, the Sox have the younger legs.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Steinbreener Boys Get Coal In Their Stockings
George would not be happy with his offspring.
His boys let Carl Crawford slip away to a secret Red Sox offer for the speedy, free agent outfielder.
New reports indicate that prize free agent pitcher Cliff Lee, the #1 guy on the Yankees Christmas shopping list, is going to a well-kept secret bid offered by the Philadelphia Phillies for his services.
That move of Lee to the Phillies is fine with Red Sox Nation. It would give the Phillies the best rotation, hands down, in the NL. We can worry about the Phillies in the World Series.
Poor Steinbrenner boys! Your first chance to run the show & you can't deliver for your fans. There may be a lot of empty, over-priced seats in Yankee Stadium this year.
His boys let Carl Crawford slip away to a secret Red Sox offer for the speedy, free agent outfielder.
New reports indicate that prize free agent pitcher Cliff Lee, the #1 guy on the Yankees Christmas shopping list, is going to a well-kept secret bid offered by the Philadelphia Phillies for his services.
That move of Lee to the Phillies is fine with Red Sox Nation. It would give the Phillies the best rotation, hands down, in the NL. We can worry about the Phillies in the World Series.
Poor Steinbrenner boys! Your first chance to run the show & you can't deliver for your fans. There may be a lot of empty, over-priced seats in Yankee Stadium this year.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Cliff Lee - Where Are You?
Cliff Lee is still unsigned.
The latest version of why Lee may stay in Texas has to do with NY State & NY City taxes. Lee could make a lower base salary in Texas & still net more dollars because the tax rate in Texas is less.
Does it really matter? The dollars are so huge it's hard for the average person to imagine. Will coming to New York get him 5 cars instead of 4 or 3 houses instead of 2? Does it really make a difference?
C'mon, Cliff. Just stay in Texas where you will go to the playoffs every year since the Angels are so depleted now. Why hassle your wife & kids into the Bronx atmosphere.
The latest version of why Lee may stay in Texas has to do with NY State & NY City taxes. Lee could make a lower base salary in Texas & still net more dollars because the tax rate in Texas is less.
Does it really matter? The dollars are so huge it's hard for the average person to imagine. Will coming to New York get him 5 cars instead of 4 or 3 houses instead of 2? Does it really make a difference?
C'mon, Cliff. Just stay in Texas where you will go to the playoffs every year since the Angels are so depleted now. Why hassle your wife & kids into the Bronx atmosphere.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Patriots Win, Jets Lose Again
The New England Patriots demolished a highly-ranked Chicago Bears team in Chicago 36-7. Offense & defense carried the day. Special teams not so much. The win guarantees the Patriots a playoff berth. Nice win in tough conditions.
On the flip side, it looks like Rex Ryan buried his offense along with the game ball from the Patriots game last week. His offense, which could muster only 3 points last week, doubled their output to 6 points in a losing effort at home against the Miami Dolphins 10-6. Sanchez & Co. are in a big scoring drought. How is Rex going to talk his way out of his 2nd straight loss to a division opponent?
Things are rosy in New England. Not so rosy in New York. Life is good.
On the flip side, it looks like Rex Ryan buried his offense along with the game ball from the Patriots game last week. His offense, which could muster only 3 points last week, doubled their output to 6 points in a losing effort at home against the Miami Dolphins 10-6. Sanchez & Co. are in a big scoring drought. How is Rex going to talk his way out of his 2nd straight loss to a division opponent?
Things are rosy in New England. Not so rosy in New York. Life is good.
Line-Up Fun
Since the additions of Adrian Gonzalez & Carl Crawford I've seen about 20 different line-ups from sportswriters. I'm going against the conventional wisdom of the left-right theory that most are following.
Here's my line-up card:
1 - Jacoby Ellsbury, CF (L)
2 - Carl Crawford, LF (L)
3 - Kevin Youkilis, 3B (R)
4 - Adrian Gonzalez, 1B (L)
5 - Dustin Pedroia, 2B (R)
6 - David Ortiz, DH (L)
7 - Jarrod Saltalamachhia, C (S)
8 - J.D. Drew, RF (L)
9 - Marco Scutaro, SS (R)
Why not give Ellsbury & Crawford more at-bats? They are your table setters & it's like having 2 chanches to get a baserunner on that can steal. If you have your own version of the 2011 Red Sox line-up, let me know by double-clicking on the Comment section below.
Here's my line-up card:
1 - Jacoby Ellsbury, CF (L)
2 - Carl Crawford, LF (L)
3 - Kevin Youkilis, 3B (R)
4 - Adrian Gonzalez, 1B (L)
5 - Dustin Pedroia, 2B (R)
6 - David Ortiz, DH (L)
7 - Jarrod Saltalamachhia, C (S)
8 - J.D. Drew, RF (L)
9 - Marco Scutaro, SS (R)
Why not give Ellsbury & Crawford more at-bats? They are your table setters & it's like having 2 chanches to get a baserunner on that can steal. If you have your own version of the 2011 Red Sox line-up, let me know by double-clicking on the Comment section below.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Quite A Week in Boston Sports
It's been quite a week...
The Red Sox pull off a blockbuster trade to land Adrian Gonzalez & then acquire free-agent Carl Crawford. Instant excitement for 2011.
The Patriots totally demolish Rex Ryan's mouth 45-3 to move past the Jets for the division lead. Huge win.
The Celtics keep winning, even getting a basket at the buzzer to beat the hapless 76's.
The Bruins are getting great goaltending & win their games this week.
All 4 teams look playoff bound. What other city can say that? Certainly not New York with the lowly Rangers & Knicks. Not LA either.
It's nice to be a Bostonian - this week especially.
The Red Sox pull off a blockbuster trade to land Adrian Gonzalez & then acquire free-agent Carl Crawford. Instant excitement for 2011.
The Patriots totally demolish Rex Ryan's mouth 45-3 to move past the Jets for the division lead. Huge win.
The Celtics keep winning, even getting a basket at the buzzer to beat the hapless 76's.
The Bruins are getting great goaltending & win their games this week.
All 4 teams look playoff bound. What other city can say that? Certainly not New York with the lowly Rangers & Knicks. Not LA either.
It's nice to be a Bostonian - this week especially.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Who's Next?
With the signing of Carl Crawford the Red Sox have pulled off their best winter since 2003 when they signed Curt Schilling & Keith Faulk. Adrian Gonzalez & Crawford give the Sox instant credibility to return to the playoffs.
The Crawford signing definitely stunned a few other teams as well. The Rays knew Crawford was going somewhere else, but they did not want him to stay in the AL East. The Yankees had Crawford as their Plan B in case they don't sign Cliff Lee. And the Angels were the front-runners in the Crawford sweepstakes so he could join their running offense. Sorry, guys, you lose out.
Theo's Christmas shopping is almost done. A right-handed bat off the bench would be nice & a couple of relievers to replenish the bullpen would be good. You might say we're down to filling the Christmas stocking as the big presents are all wrapped up.
It's only 2 months to the start of Spring Training. Can't wait!
The Crawford signing definitely stunned a few other teams as well. The Rays knew Crawford was going somewhere else, but they did not want him to stay in the AL East. The Yankees had Crawford as their Plan B in case they don't sign Cliff Lee. And the Angels were the front-runners in the Crawford sweepstakes so he could join their running offense. Sorry, guys, you lose out.
Theo's Christmas shopping is almost done. A right-handed bat off the bench would be nice & a couple of relievers to replenish the bullpen would be good. You might say we're down to filling the Christmas stocking as the big presents are all wrapped up.
It's only 2 months to the start of Spring Training. Can't wait!
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Welcome Carl Crawford!
Join the party, Carl! The Red Sox picked up a 2nd impact player in Carl Crawford with a 7-year, $142 million deal. Crawford was expected to sign with either the Yankees or Angels, but the Sox beat both of them to the speedy outfielder.
The loss of Crawford to the Sox leaves the Yankees betting all their chips on Cliff Lee. The fact that Lee has not accepted a Yankees offer yet leads one to believe that he wants to stay in Texas. But time & money will tell.
With the addition of crawford you wonder if Jacoby Ellsbury becomes expendable or if there is a possible move of J.D. Drew in the works. The Sox are definitely heavy from the left side & could use a right-handed bat. Maybe there's another trade coming.
Kudos, Theo, way to go! Red Sox Nation is ready for 2011.
The loss of Crawford to the Sox leaves the Yankees betting all their chips on Cliff Lee. The fact that Lee has not accepted a Yankees offer yet leads one to believe that he wants to stay in Texas. But time & money will tell.
With the addition of crawford you wonder if Jacoby Ellsbury becomes expendable or if there is a possible move of J.D. Drew in the works. The Sox are definitely heavy from the left side & could use a right-handed bat. Maybe there's another trade coming.
Kudos, Theo, way to go! Red Sox Nation is ready for 2011.
Carlos Pena Exits Tampa Bay
No more late-inning home runs from Carlos Pena against the Red Sox. Pena signed a 1-year, $10 million deal with the Chicago Cubs yesterday. He is the latest player to exit the Rays organization with more to come.
Pena may have only hit .195 last year, but he is a long ball threat every time he steps up to the plate. More time than we would like to remember, Pena always seemed to get a big hit to sink the Red Sox. At least we won't have to worry about him anymore.
Overall, Tampa looks to be taking a step backwards. Their relief corps is gone. Pena will soon be followed out the door by Carl Crawford. Joe Maddon & Co. will have to build around Evan Longoria & their starting pitchers in 2011.
Looks like the AL East will be Boston & New York once again.
Pena may have only hit .195 last year, but he is a long ball threat every time he steps up to the plate. More time than we would like to remember, Pena always seemed to get a big hit to sink the Red Sox. At least we won't have to worry about him anymore.
Overall, Tampa looks to be taking a step backwards. Their relief corps is gone. Pena will soon be followed out the door by Carl Crawford. Joe Maddon & Co. will have to build around Evan Longoria & their starting pitchers in 2011.
Looks like the AL East will be Boston & New York once again.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Jeter Re-Signs With Yankees
Derek Jeter will retire a Yankee. The much publicized re-negotiation of his contract with Yankee management ended with a 3-year, $51 million deal & an option for a 4th year. Jeter will be 40 when his last contract year expires.
Leave it to the Rem Dawg to give the best comment on the Jeter situation. Jerry said that it was an embarassment to Jeter, who played 15 years with the Yankes, to be treated this way by Yankee management. He went onto say that Brian Cashman wasn't the culprit. It was the other 2 "idiots," meaning the 2 Steinbrenner boys.
With multi-year contracts in place for Posada, Rivera & Jeter - their equivalents of Big Papi to the Sox - the Bronx Bombers continue to get older while the Red Sox get younger.
Wait until Girardi has to move Jeter out of the top of the order & then move him out of shortstop. Never a dull moment in Yankee-town.
Leave it to the Rem Dawg to give the best comment on the Jeter situation. Jerry said that it was an embarassment to Jeter, who played 15 years with the Yankes, to be treated this way by Yankee management. He went onto say that Brian Cashman wasn't the culprit. It was the other 2 "idiots," meaning the 2 Steinbrenner boys.
With multi-year contracts in place for Posada, Rivera & Jeter - their equivalents of Big Papi to the Sox - the Bronx Bombers continue to get older while the Red Sox get younger.
Wait until Girardi has to move Jeter out of the top of the order & then move him out of shortstop. Never a dull moment in Yankee-town.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Patriots, Red Sox Have A Great Day
It's great to be a fan of New England sports. It was especially great yesterday.
The Patriots demolished Rex Ryan's mouth & team 45-3 at Foxborough last night. As impressive as Brady & the defense played, I was more impressed with the post-game comments of the coach & players. Not a one said anything like "take that, Rex, & shove it down your big mouth." Instead, they all were gracious in victory & started to focus on the Chicago Bears.
Earlier in the day, the Sox introduced Adrian Gonzalez as their newest member of the 2011 roster. In his interviews with NESN & other media outlets it was obvious that Gonzo is more than a good hitter. He mentioned preparation, video, & executing a plan to attack a certain section of the strike zone. His comments reminded me of a Ted Williams approach to hitting. His demeanor is unassuming, but he has an inner confidence that will serve him well in this market. No question that he will be a fan favorite in no time.
In this day of pampered pro atletes & it's an all-about-me attitude, a la T.O. & Manny, it's no wonder why Boston fans love the old school T-E-A-M approach that is the philosophy of the New England Patriots & the Boston Red Sox. It's a throw-back philosophy that serves both teams & their fan bases well. It's refreshing to me.
The Patriots demolished Rex Ryan's mouth & team 45-3 at Foxborough last night. As impressive as Brady & the defense played, I was more impressed with the post-game comments of the coach & players. Not a one said anything like "take that, Rex, & shove it down your big mouth." Instead, they all were gracious in victory & started to focus on the Chicago Bears.
Earlier in the day, the Sox introduced Adrian Gonzalez as their newest member of the 2011 roster. In his interviews with NESN & other media outlets it was obvious that Gonzo is more than a good hitter. He mentioned preparation, video, & executing a plan to attack a certain section of the strike zone. His comments reminded me of a Ted Williams approach to hitting. His demeanor is unassuming, but he has an inner confidence that will serve him well in this market. No question that he will be a fan favorite in no time.
In this day of pampered pro atletes & it's an all-about-me attitude, a la T.O. & Manny, it's no wonder why Boston fans love the old school T-E-A-M approach that is the philosophy of the New England Patriots & the Boston Red Sox. It's a throw-back philosophy that serves both teams & their fan bases well. It's refreshing to me.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Werth Gone, Bullpen Next
The GM meetings in Orlando will take a different turn for the Red Sox. Instead of considering new signings to solidify their infield, the Sox got their man yesterday in Adrian Gonzalez. Put a check mark next to that "to do" item.
With Jayson Werth signing a big deal with the Nationals, the asking price for Carl Crawford may be too high now. Werth got $18 million a year for 7 years. Crawford is sure to go for more than that. That may be too rich for the Red Sox who still have Cameron, Ellsbury, Drew & others available.
It looks like Theo will turn his attention to the bullpen this week. Gone are Okajima, Delcarmen & Ramirez. The Sox need to re-stock at least 2 more dependable arms, preferrably one lefty, to give relief to Daniel Bard & Jon Papelbon. Felix Dubront showed promise last year as both a starter & reliever. He may play a bigger role in 2011 out of the bullpen as the Sox currently have 6 starters.
It would be nice to keep the momentum going this week & put the final pieces to the puzzle together for 2011.
With Jayson Werth signing a big deal with the Nationals, the asking price for Carl Crawford may be too high now. Werth got $18 million a year for 7 years. Crawford is sure to go for more than that. That may be too rich for the Red Sox who still have Cameron, Ellsbury, Drew & others available.
It looks like Theo will turn his attention to the bullpen this week. Gone are Okajima, Delcarmen & Ramirez. The Sox need to re-stock at least 2 more dependable arms, preferrably one lefty, to give relief to Daniel Bard & Jon Papelbon. Felix Dubront showed promise last year as both a starter & reliever. He may play a bigger role in 2011 out of the bullpen as the Sox currently have 6 starters.
It would be nice to keep the momentum going this week & put the final pieces to the puzzle together for 2011.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
An Early Christmas Present
Theo & Co. put an early Christmas present with a big red & blue bow under the tree of Red Sox Nation. News broke yesterday of the trade with San Diego to put Adrian Gonzalez in the Red Sox lineup for the next several years. Alleluia!
Gonzalez is the left-handed equivalent of Kevin Youkilis with a little more power. He is a Gold Glover at first base. In 5 years with the Padres in a huge park he averaged 30 HR & 100 RBI. The Nation is a buzz once again thinking about the 2011 season.
The Sox did give up 3 first-rate prospects, particularly Kelly & Rizzo, along with a player to be named later. The Padres get an injection of new young talent that they can control at manageable money for several years. Even though the Padres gave up a key player which they would not be able to re-sign, they maximized his trade value by pulling off the deal now.
With the infield solidified the Sox can now turn to the outfield free agents of Crawford & Werth.
Nice goin', Theo! Merry Christmas!
Gonzalez is the left-handed equivalent of Kevin Youkilis with a little more power. He is a Gold Glover at first base. In 5 years with the Padres in a huge park he averaged 30 HR & 100 RBI. The Nation is a buzz once again thinking about the 2011 season.
The Sox did give up 3 first-rate prospects, particularly Kelly & Rizzo, along with a player to be named later. The Padres get an injection of new young talent that they can control at manageable money for several years. Even though the Padres gave up a key player which they would not be able to re-sign, they maximized his trade value by pulling off the deal now.
With the infield solidified the Sox can now turn to the outfield free agents of Crawford & Werth.
Nice goin', Theo! Merry Christmas!
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Sox Talking to Gonzo
OK, now I'm getting excited. Pull off the deal, Theo! Give the Padres whatever they want.
The Sox & Padres are talking once again about a trade for Adrian Gonzalez. Gonzalez is a key piece to the future of the Red Sox. It's like Teixeira all over again. If they get Gonzo at 28 years old, he can be a fixture at 1B for years.
As Yoda said, there is no try - only do or don't do. Let's do it!
The Sox & Padres are talking once again about a trade for Adrian Gonzalez. Gonzalez is a key piece to the future of the Red Sox. It's like Teixeira all over again. If they get Gonzo at 28 years old, he can be a fixture at 1B for years.
As Yoda said, there is no try - only do or don't do. Let's do it!
Friday, December 3, 2010
Varitek Coming Back
According to the AP, the Red Sox have signed a 1-year deal with Jason Varitek to bring him back to the team for the 2011 season as a back-up catcher. The deal is worth $2,000,000.
I say good. Varitek can certainly mentor Saltie. In a back-up role last year #33 was very productive offensively until he sustained a broken bone in his foot. His signing gives the Sox & their pitching staff a known quantity at the position.
It would have been hard to see Varitek in a different uniform this year. After all those years of service with the Red Sox this last contract may give him a way to retire as a Red Sox. I like that ending.
I say good. Varitek can certainly mentor Saltie. In a back-up role last year #33 was very productive offensively until he sustained a broken bone in his foot. His signing gives the Sox & their pitching staff a known quantity at the position.
It would have been hard to see Varitek in a different uniform this year. After all those years of service with the Red Sox this last contract may give him a way to retire as a Red Sox. I like that ending.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Crawford & Theo Talk
The Red Sox have begun discussions with Carl Crawford in Houston. Theo & his team met with Crawford & his reps. Everything seems to have gone well. The Sox will have competition to sign Crawford from the Yankees & the Angels.
Crawford would have a middle-of-the-order spot in the lineup where he could do more hitting & less stealing, a good fit as he gets older. Fenway Park also plays to his strength as a hitter to left-center with plenty of doubles. We can use his speed in the outfield as well.
I still hope that the Sox sign a corner infielder first. Paul Konerko & Adrian Beltre are out there.
Crawford would have a middle-of-the-order spot in the lineup where he could do more hitting & less stealing, a good fit as he gets older. Fenway Park also plays to his strength as a hitter to left-center with plenty of doubles. We can use his speed in the outfield as well.
I still hope that the Sox sign a corner infielder first. Paul Konerko & Adrian Beltre are out there.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Bottleneck Is Cliff Lee
It appears that the hot stove won't get hotter until Cliff Lee decides to become a Yankee or stay a Texas Ranger. That's the buzz from all the sports shows last night. The theory is that, once the Lee situation is settled, Carl Crawford & others will start finding homes.
Reports are that Lee initially rejected a multi-year deal from the Yankees. Two possibilities... Either Lee wants more money from the Yankees or he is giving the Rangers more time to come up with a similar offer. All of Red Sox Nation would like to see the Rangers keep Cliff Lee.
With the winter meetings starting next week it's possible that you see the dominos start to fall. More probably, however, there will be talk between clubs that will lay the ground work for future trades. The Sox will no doubt be talking to the Padres about how much they want for Adrian Gonzalez.
Overall, the hot stove has been anything but so far.
Reports are that Lee initially rejected a multi-year deal from the Yankees. Two possibilities... Either Lee wants more money from the Yankees or he is giving the Rangers more time to come up with a similar offer. All of Red Sox Nation would like to see the Rangers keep Cliff Lee.
With the winter meetings starting next week it's possible that you see the dominos start to fall. More probably, however, there will be talk between clubs that will lay the ground work for future trades. The Sox will no doubt be talking to the Padres about how much they want for Adrian Gonzalez.
Overall, the hot stove has been anything but so far.
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