A Few Thoughts...

...from the Winter Meetings transactions.

1. He Who Shall Not Be Named - New York Yankees - 7 years - $161 Million
The Yankees got the best left-hander in the game. Sounds good right? For now, this deal is a slam dunk. But what happens four years from now When CC is a biscuit shy of 400 lbs and is still owed $69 million? Brian Cashman better introduce CC to Al Roker while he's in NYC so he can learn about gastric bypass surgery.

2. K-Rod - New York Mets - 3 years - $37 Million
I generally tend to frown upon giving closers more than $10 million per year, given the fact that closers come from anywhere and dominate (i.e. George Sherrill, Matt Capps, Brandon Lyon, etc...) and not make that much money. But in the Mets case, their bullpen was so terrible that they needed to go out and get the best closer money could buy. Six months ago K-Rod was thought to have commanded 5 years/$65 million, so for Mets GM Omar Minaya to get him on these terms was a slam dunk.

3. Mets acquire JJ Putz from Seattle in 3 team trade
What's better than getting the best closer available? Getting the second best closer available as well to set up for him. Provided Putz can take the ego-check and pitch the 8th inning, the Mets went from having one of the worst bullpens to one of the best. Be wary though, last year the Metropolitans acquired Santana and every sports writer in America handed them the NL Pennant. The Mets are still a few pieces away from "Elite" status, but they will definitely give the Phils a struggle in the East.

Side note: This may be one of the fairest three team trades in the history of baseball. The Mariners got two very good defensive outfielders in Endy Chavez and Franklin Gutierrez as well as a quality starter in Aaron Heilman and several above average prospects. The Indians walked away with a slick fielding Venezuelan second baseman and a ground ball inducing side armer in Joe Smith.

4. AJ Burnett - New York Yankees - 5 years - $82 Million
Commissioner Bud Selig told Cashman he could only sign pitchers with initials this offseason, but I think they would have been better off with OJ Simpson than AJ Burnett. The Yanks may have gotten a little greedy with this one. They couldn't just settle on Sabathia, they needed another starter but FIVE YEARS to AJ Burnett? I would rather bring back Randy Johnson or signed Braden Looper for two or three years. AJ Burnett has more arm problems than John McCain (low blow, I know).

5. Raul Ibanez - World F@#king Champions - 3 years - $30 Million
Let's be honest, he's 5 years older than Burrell. He hits slightly less but plays slightly more defense than Burrell. He probably works harder, but there's no way he cares more about the city of Philadelphia. Pat the Bat grew into a legend in Philly this season. He will be missed. Ibanez is a suitable replacement this year, but the final year of this deal, when Ibanez turns 39, Amaro is going to have some headaches.

Sin City was quiet this week but there are still plenty of names out there. Keep it here for your (un)biased opinions and analysis of every deal.

PS - Must mention the absolute stellar deal Oakland GM and genius Billy Beane made to get Matt Holliday. The Angels better get cracking because Beane's boys will be bringing the heat in the weak AL West next season.

CC Sabathia...

has turned to the darkside. As penalty, he is forever ex-communicated from this blog. Never again will his name be spoken from my end.

The Rivalry Still Exists

I'm not going to dance around this one. Sports need more rivalries. They really don't exist much anymore. Not even the sacred Yankees/Red Sox rivalry was interesting this year.

Today USC head coach Pete Carroll will suit up his team in their scarlet red uniform tops against the baby-blue uniform tops of the UCLA Bruins. This is a violation of NCAA rules, which requires visiting teams to be adorned in white, costing Carroll's Trojans two timeouts, one per half. Carroll was fine forfeiting the timeouts since USC is a 33 point favorite and will likely walk to another PAC-10 championship.

Carroll purposely violated this rule because he wanted to restore the rivalry between USC and UCLA. While it came off as smug and arrogant to sacrifice two timeouts in a championship game, I think Carroll is on to something. With Rick Neuheisel taking over the reigns at UCLA, it is largely expected the Bruins will to return to prominence in college football in the not too distant future. Basically, this game that few will watch today, could be must see television for the next decade. Neuheisel is on the record saying he didn't feel disrespected by Carroll's decision and would like to encourage the rivalry building effort himself.

Last year, even before the Celtics and Lakers battled in the NBA playoffs, restoring one of the oldest and greatest rivalries in professional sports, the Lakers had a similar idea to Carroll's. As the Celtics visited Los Angeles for a regular season game, the Lakers took the court in short shorts, in homage to the way players wore them back when the Celtics/Lakers rivalry meant something. After being down at the half, the Lakers switched back to the baggy shorts for the second half, but the point was made.

Army had the same notion as they unveiled camouflage uniforms for their annual season finale against Navy this afternoon.

I can't tell you how much I like this concept. Rivalries are what make sports great. History and tradition are what sports are all about. The more ways organizations can find to accentuate their current rivalries or restore older ones, the better. It takes away from the 'me' concept in sports and brings back the 'team' concept.

I think this trend will only continue to increase and for good reason. The excitement built around a good rivalry game is unparalleled by much in sports. I hope coaches everywhere take note of what is going on and implement their own twist to expand their biggest rivalry.

Yes We Can!

So much has been made about the controversy at the top of the College Football rankings. Since the No 1. and No 2. ranked teams are automatically awarded bids to the National Championship Game (and those rankings are determined by a computer) it hasn't been received as the fairest way to solve a season. Every year we have this argument and every year more and more people who don't understand the system start marching on City Hall that there should be a play-off system.

As this year draws to a close we have the undefeated Alabama Crimson Tide sitting atop the rankings with a slew of one-loss teams following, all crying about not getting a chance to play for a national title. Last year Oklahoma Head Coach Bob Stoops complained to every media outlet he could find about the atrocity that is the BCS rankings. This year, with his Sooners ranked No. 2 by the computers (even though they lost to the team ranked directly below them, Texas, who also only has one loss) Stoops has been quieter than Notre Dame's offense.

Now I can sit back and listen to all the sports talk shows debate the need for a play-off system all day long, but I was taken aback when the President-Elect of the United States, Barack Obama said during an interview that he would "throw his weight around" in order to get a play-off implemented during his stay in the Oval Office. I thought the President had duties like running the country and being Commander-in-Chief. I had to read the Declaration of Independence twice but I did actually find the clause where our Forefathers wanted to implement a play-off system and that's why we were breaking away from England.

How about instead of worrying about something that is merely providing Las Vegas with more gambling revenue you worry about something that makes a difference in young men and women's lives. In March of this year the United States Army implemented the Alternate Service Option to allow exceptional athletes in their program to avoid their mandatory two years of active duty and go directly to the pros. The program stipulates that cadets serving two years in the professional ranks of sports could serve six years of reserve time instead.

Citing this rule, the Detroit Lions drafted Army defensive stud Caleb Campbell in the seventh round of the NFL Draft this past April. It provided for a feel good story as Campbell walked down the runway at Radio City Music Hall in New York City to thousands of fans screaming, "USA, USA" at the top of their lungs. Campbell did a quick interview with ESPN who quickly got Lions Head Coach Rod Marinelli on the phone. Marinelli, a Veteran of Vietnam, told Campbell to "be in shape and ready to tackle" when he reported to camp.

Then, on the eve of the day Campbell was scheduled to report to Lions Training Camp, the Department of Defense reversed the ruling, saying Campbell would need to serve two active years before being eligible to return to the NFL. They claimed the Alternate Service Option was unfair to Campbell's classmates and those in the Navy and Air Force who did not have the option of playing in the NFL directly and avoiding the perils of war in Iraq.

I can't think of a more egregious act. At least honor the commitment you made allowing Campbell to pursue his dream, just as he honored his commitment to serve his country thus far. If the rule is unfair, then abolish it from this point forward, but to retroactively take away Campbell's shot at the pros is disgraceful.

If President Obama really wants to make a splash, he should investigate this scenario and re-implement the Alternate Service Option. For Campbell, his shot is likely over as the Lions season nears completion but future cadets can benefit from this. America prides itself on learning from its mistakes and correcting them in the future. Could Obama 'throw his weight around' and get this taken care of? Yes He Can! And yes he should.

Hot Stove League

The Major League Baseball off season is one of the most captivating off season's in sports. On the very first day of NFL free agency, virtually every big name signed. Not in baseball. We are ten days into the free agent market and thus far none of the big names are even reportedly close to signing. The intricacies of the MLB regulations are quite confusing. Here is a crash course in everything you could possibly wonder about baseball's off season.

Free Agency
Players are eligible for free agency after they have accumulated six years of Major League service, provided they have not signed a contract.

Arbitration
Players are eligible for salary arbitration after three years of Major League service. Before three years, organizations can renew a contract of a player for any amount they see fit, provided it is at least the league minimum.

Any player with an expiring contract who is unable to reach a new deal can be offered arbitration by their current organization. If the player accepts, the team and player will exchange salary figures until a deal is reached or taken to a hearing. If the player declines arbitration, the team will receive draft pick compensation from the team who signs the player. Two draft picks are awarded for Type A free agents and one draft pick is awarded for Type B free agents.

Rule 5 Draft
Any player signed at the age of 19 or older has four years to be placed on a Major League 40-Man roster. Any player signed at the age of 18 or younger has five years to be placed on a Major League 40-Man roster. If the player is not on a 40-Man roster at this point, they are eligible to be selected in the Rule 5 Draft. The draft order is determined by the previous season's standings, with the team with the worst record selecting first.

If a team selects a player in the Rule 5 Draft, they must keep them on their Major League roster for the entire season or return the player back to the team they selected them from. It costs $50,000 to select a player in the Rule 5 Draft.

Japanese Posting System
Any player under contract in the Nippon Professional Baseball league wishing to play in the MLB must following the Posting process. The Japanese league team will notify the Commissioner who then notifies all 30 MLB teams. Teams then submit sealed bids to the Commissioner. The Commissioner then notifies the NPB of the highest bid, without revealing which team has submitted it. The NPB team has four days to accept or reject the bid. If accepted, the MLB team then has 30 days to negotiate exclusively with the player's representatives. If a contract is reached the posting fee is paid directly to the NPB team. If a contract is not reached, no money is paid to the NPB team.

So there it is. Without a salary cap, baseball organizations have always seemed simple to run, however you can see how complicated it can get. Any questions or further clarifications needed? Comment on this post and I'll be glad to further explain any of the above.

Stop It! Stop It Now! Just Stop It!

I've bitten my tongue long enough. I can no longer sit in silence while this travesty takes place around me. The most over used and wrongly used phrase in sports has been taken to an entirely new level of wrong.

After last night's Monday Night Football game saw the Arizona Cardinals defeat the San Francisco 49ers by stopping Michael Robinson from the 2 yard line as time expired, the ill forsaken phrase was uttered, "Walk-Off Goal Line Stand".

Come on. Really? That's the best you could come up with?

It's the second time in a week where the infamous "Walk-Off" phrase was uttered when it shouldn't have even entered the mind of the play-by-play man. Last week, when Brandon Roy of the Portland Trailblazers hit a 30 footer at the buzzer to sink the Houston Rockets, it was described as a "Walk-off three pointer".

Two years ago, the NHL issued statements to networks covering the NHL (yup, all both of them) to address any goal scored in the sudden-death overtime period as "skate-off goals". This is by far the most asinine thing I have heard since Mike Tyson's farewell to boxing speech.

I won't single out individual broadcasters because it is poor taste and everyone is doing it. This epidemic needs to stop. It's not cool and you're not cool for saying it.

There is one sport and one sport only which can use this phrase and it is baseball. They coined it first and it fits the sport. Baseball would never describe a low-scoring game as a defensive struggle because they have their own terms, like pitcher's duel.

I understand the meaning they are trying to convey, but be a little more creative and let baseball have this phrase. The sport is suffering enough through suspended title clinching games, horrid weather delays and lower ratings than Who's The Boss reruns. ESPN does a tremendous job filling the public's thirst for sports information but their on air personalities are becoming too cute while trying to become celebrities. Report the news and move on.

I'm glad we had this talk. Now don't do it again

PS. An apology to Phillies fans for the Joe Carter photo, but let's be honest, you've gotten a little too smug over the last week. Just bringing you back to reality.

Didn't See That One Coming

Buckey Dent and Aaron Boone move over.

Chase Utley joined an elite club of Major League Baseball players yesterday. What club you ask? The infamous middle name club. Order the new social security card, because Chase Cameron Utley no longer exists. From this point forward, he will forever be known as Chase F. Utley.

During the Philadelphia Phillies 2008 World Series Champion parade and subsequent ceremony at Citizens Bank Park, Utley was given the microphone by Hall of Fame voice of the Phillies Harry Kalas.

Chase matter of factly proclaimed, "World Champions". After pausing a second and looking at his teammates behind him, he shouted, "World F@%king Champions". The stadium erupted in cheers while parents everywhere turned as white as Casper the Ghost on this Halloween Day.

Many have criticized the Phils' second baseman for his remarks. Last time I checked this was America, where the freedom of speech is a right everyone has.

As a role model in the city of Philadelphia, should he have chose his words more carefully? Perhaps. There's no reason to use that type of language with thousands of children present and millions more watching live on television, where censors were caught unprepared for the atomic f-bomb, letting it air on virtually every news channel in Philadelphia. The crazy thing is that Chase Utley was the one who said it. Had those words come from Pat Burrell's mouth no one would have even blinked.

I hate to break it you but anyone who has ever attended a sporting event in Philadelphia has heard a thousand times worse language from every mean and rotten fan guzzling down beer after beer. Utley epitomizes the true Philadelphian. He's a bring your lunch pale to work kinda guy. He's got long hair, facial hair and ain't afraid to get dirty. Just because you speak one way doesn't mean that's who you are. Language has evolved in the 21st century and Utley's remarks weren't all that horrible.

Rugged on the outside, Utley, like so many Philadelphians, has a sincere and genuine inside. He works wonders in the community and has donated more money to various charitable organizations than most of us combined. We all have our faults and no one is perfect, but for the city of Philadelphia, Chase is the perfect representation of this city.

A Sigh of Relief

At the University of Florida in 1965, researchers created a drink designed to better hydrate the football team during the relentless heating during two-a-days.

Paying homage to the University that employed them, they named their creation "Gatorade" after the schools mascot, the Gator. Forty three years later, Gatorade is on of the most successful beverage companies in the world.

Rumor has is that the University of Notre Dame had a similar creation which they called Irishade. Common folk may refer to it as whiskey.

All kidding aside, I'd like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude at how fortunate we were that Gainsville had the researchers that created Gatorade.

Without further adieu, the ten worst alternative colleges or universities that could have created Gatorade.

10. Chanticleerade
(Coastal Carolina University Chanticleers, Conway, South Carolina)
No one would drink that.

9. Anteaterade
(University of California-Irvine Anteaters, Irvine, California)
Who doesn't love an anteater?

8. Banana Slugade
(University of California-Santa Cruz Banana Slugs, Santa Cruz, California)
Really? Banana Slugs? Are you f@#%!$ kidding me?

7. Eeph-Ade
(Williams College Eephs, Williamstown, Massachusetts)
I've actually been to Williams College. Their mascot is a giant purple cow.

6. Missionarie-Ade
(Whitman College Missionaries, Walla Walla, Washington)
Pfizer got the naming rights to that one. Viva Viagra!

5. Trojanade
(University of Southern California Trojans, Los Angeles, California)
There's entirely too many inappropriate comments for this one.

4. Nad-Ade
(Rhode Island School of Design Nads, Providence, Rhode Island)
The official sponsor of jock straps everywhere

3. Flying Dutchmenade
(Hofstra University Flying Dutchmen, Hempstead, New York)
Honus Wagner just sat up in his grave an applauded.

2. Purple Pride-Ade
(Nyack College, Nyack, New York)
Not that there's anything wrong with that.

1. Cockade
(University of South Carolina Gamecocks, Columbia, South Carolina)
I'm not touching that one, no pun intended.

So stay hydrated America, and breath a sigh of relief when you reach for that Gatorade, for the alternatives could have been much, much worse.

Week 3

I improved from Week 1 but still a pretty bad week. Six wins, eight losses and one push.

ATL 6 KC
MY PICK = ATL

BUF 9.5 OAK
MY PICK = BUF

TEN 5.5 HOU
MY PICK = HOU

NYG 13.5 CIN
MY PICK = CIN

WAS 3 ARZ
MY PICK = ARZ

NE 13 MIA
MY PICK = MIA

CHI 3 TB
MY PICK = CHI

MIN 3.5 CAR
MY PICK = CAR

SEA 10 STL
MY PICK = STL

SF 4 DET
MY PICK = SF

DEN 6 NO
MY PICK = NO

PHI 3.5 PIT
MY PICK = PIT

IND 5.5 JAC
MY PICK = IND

BAL 2.5 CLE
MY PICK = CLE

DAL 3 GB
MY PICK = DAL

SD 9 NYJ
MY PICK = NYJ

Hindsight is 20/20

Ten years and ten days ago, the nation turned its watchful eye on St. Louis, Missouri where baseball history was made.

For many it was the first time since the 1994 player strike that they had given baseball the time of day. Many had sworn off the game forever. As an eleven year old boy I read the newspaper every morning as I slurped up the remaining milk from my daily bowl of Rice Krispies.

I wasn't concerned with the goings-on of the world around me. The truth was I couldn't care less about the escalating tension in the Middle East. I discarded every page dealing with legitimate journalism. Instead, I turned directly to the one page that could have been compiled by a monkey with a typewriter.

The box scores were all I cared about.

I hadn't developed the gambling addiction I carry today and the heart pounding fear I have when I check box scores now with my rent money on the line. The winners of the previous night's games worried me very little. Sure I checked to see if my beloved Cleveland Indians had managed to outscore their opponents but my focus was off the American League. The Senior Circuit reigned supreme in the nineteen hundred and ninety-eighth year of the last millennium. And two players in particular stood above the cut.

Big Mac and Slammin' Sammy.

When Mark McGwire finally hit the 62nd home run of the season, I sat wide eyed with amazement as the opposition, Mickey Morandini and Mark Grace extended their right hands for the congratulatory handshake. It was truly a life altering moment for me.

Fast forward to the present where we now know that the hallowed 61 home runs in a season record was broken using performance enhancing substances. I was always a fan of baseball but that moment thrust me into a full on obsession with baseball that has yet to subside.

I feel cheated.

It's like learning on your 21st birthday that you are really 22 and the monumental birthday that separates man from boy is no more.

What McGwire and Sosa did in the summer of '98 was magical and brought the game of baseball to where it is today, but the consequences of that statistical anomaly also known as the record breaking season have forever altered baseball history.

Week 2

I took last week on the chin, going a dismal 4-11. I'm predicting at least 8 wins this week.

KC 3.5 OAK
MY PICK = OAK

CIN 1 TEN
MY PICK = CIN

IND 2 MIN
MY PICK = IND

NO 1 WAS
MY PICK = NO

GB 3 DET
MY PICK = DET

CAR 3 CHI
MY PICK = CAR

NYG 9 STL
MY PICK = STL

JAC 5.5 BUF
MY PICK = JAC

TB 7 ATL
MY PICK = ATL

SEA 7 SF
MY PICK = SF

ARZ 7 MIA
MY PICK = ARZ

NYJ 1 NE
MY PICK = NYJ

HOU 4.5 BAL
MY PICK = BAL

SD 1 DEN
MY PICK = SD

PIT 6 CLE
MY PICK = CLE

DAL 7 PHI
MY PICK = PHI

Week 1

Every Friday I will pick each NFL game for the upcoming Sunday. Lines are courtesy of BoDogLife.com

CIN 2.5 BAL
MY PICK = CIN
NYJ 3 MIA
MY PICK = NYJ
NE 17 KC
MY PICK = NE
PIT 6.5 HOU
MY PICK = PIT
JAC 3 TEN
MY PICK = JAC
DET 3 ATL
MY PICK = DET
BUF 1 SEA
MY PICK = SEA
NO 3.5 TB
MY PICK = NO
PHI 8 STL
MY PICK = STL
DAL 6 CLE
MY PICK = CLE
SD 9 CAR
MY PICK = SD
ARZ 3 SF
MY PICK = SF
IND 10 CHI
MY PICK = IND
GB 2 MIN
MY PICK = MIN
DEN 3 OAK
MY PICK = DEN

Ocho Cinco

It's official. The Cincinnati Bengals no longer have a player on their roster named Chad Johnson. After an off-season full of distraction, the Bengals have finally removed Johnson from their roster. Unhappy with his contract, Johnson demanded a trade and threatened to sit out regular season games.

I'll take this opportunity to break another story from within the same team. The Bengals have a new No. 1 wide receiver in their clubhouse. His name you ask? Chad Ocho Cinco. Johnson officially changed his name from Chad Johnson to Chad Ocho Cinco. His new surname will appear on his jersey during games, as seen above.

Never has the NFL seen a character quite like Chad. They've fined him for his over-the-top celebrations after touchdowns. The "No Fun League" as Chad likes to refer to it has made several attempts to suppress the joy with which Chad plays. To sidestep their rigidness, Chad will now be officially referred to by announcers, in the media guide, and on his paycheck as Chad Ocho Cinco.

I love players expressing their individuality and think the precedent and defiance Ocho Cinco is showing is really going to stir the pot. The NFL kicks off its season tonight and with so many question marks in the league, anything is possible.

Value, Value, Value

Six weeks remain in the Major League Baseball season. Six weeks for the best of the best to prove their worth. It's tradition that each league names a MostValuable Player at season's end. This year's pool of possible winners is so tightly packed that even Bret Favre admitted he wouldn't want to make this decision.

The argument comes down to your interpretation of the letters MVP. Most valuable is vastly different than most outstanding, which is how most people vote.

The Philadelphia Phillies have dominated the award the past two seasons with Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins each taking home the hardware. After two months of this season, it looked as though thePhils would three-peat as Chase Utley was on another planet. Nagging injuries have brought Utley's numbers back to reality. Coupled with Howard and outfielder Pat Burrell's success, Utley's value in the line-up is not the strongest.

I love Ryan Braun. In only his second year of big league service he is putting up Ruthian numbers. His 31 home runs are impressive but with only 86 RBI, the majority of his destruction occurs with no one on base. Speaking of no one on base,Braun walks less than Stephen Hawking, evidenced by his .340 OBP. Compare that to Burrell, while only batting .266, his OBP is .393.

Manny Ramirez has only been in the National League for two weeks, so he's out.

The Cubs have gathered the National League's best record by utilizing a balanced attack. Derrek Lee, Aramis Ramirez and Alfonso Soriano have fueled off each other's success though no one has stood out as the most valued in Pinella's line-up.

So who's the last man standing? Albert Pujols. He's batting .348 with an OBP of .459. He's walked twice as many times as he's struck out. He's launched 27 dingers and is slugging .617. The Cardinals line-up is anything but threatening, yet Pujols has made everyone around him better. That's how I define an MVP.

If the Cardinals fail to make the playoffs, we'll see how much the baseball writer's think of Pujols' value. I'd be willing to put my money on Albert being named MVP regardless of how St. Louis finishes in the standings.

Manny being Manny

"Where's Manny?"

The answer to this question depends on two things: who's asking it and what's going on?

The final week of July, Red Sox skipper Tito Francona would have answered this with, "I wish I knew."

In the top of the ninth of Monday's game against the Phillies, Joe Torre's answer was, "In the can."

The latest 'Manny being Manny' moment has added to the infamy of one of the greatest hitters the game of baseball has ever seen. Since being acquired by the Dodgers, Ramirez is hitting .476 (20-42) with 4 HR and 14 RBI in just 11 games.

Ask any member of the American League East the same question and they'll likely smile as they respond, "3,000 miles west."

Boston's 19 run output last night might not indicate how much Ramirez is missed in Beantown, but time will tell as the Red Sox attempt to defend their World Championship.

Absent minded at times, Ramirez is in a zone that most hitters never experience in a career. His offensive outburst has kept the boys in blue in the National League West race and forced the first place Diamondbacks to acquire outfielder Adam Dunn from the Reds. LA is caught up with Manny Fever as the surrounding line-up has benefited exponentially from his mere presence.
His notorious lack of hustle doesn't matter when the ball lands in the stands.

While the rise in contracts to nine figures has placed more responsibility and added a sense of professionalism to baseball, let's not forget that this is a game. In my 20 years of watching America's pastime, I can't say I've witnessed a player having more fun on the diamond than Manny.

Next week, the answer to the million dollar question will be, "At the barber."
Torre informed Manny of his affinity for a clean cut look. Manny immediately agreed and said he didn't want any preferential treatment.

While some may be annoyed by his antics, I will watch every second of the remainder of his prolific career. There may never be a player like Manny again. On the last Sunday of July, five years after Manny hangs up his spikes, the answer to the question will be one word, "Cooperstown".


They say a picture's worth a thousand words. This one left me speechless.

Learning from the Past

Sources close to the Red Sox are reporting the reigning World Champs are interested in signing former Cleveland Indian closer Joe Borowski.

I can only offer these words of advice to Sox GM Theo Epstein: ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND?

Have you forgotten the terror that was Eric Gagne last year? Not only were you forced to give up a legitimate starting pitcher in Kasson Gabbard, but you got literally no return for it. Terry Francona placed his misguided faith with the erratic Gagne all the way through the ALCS. It took the Fenway Park mound filing a restraining order against Gagne, requiring him to stay 100 yards away from the rubber at all times for the BoSox to win the World Series.

So if you can't learn from the past, let me explain to you why signing Joe Borowski is literally the worst possible move you can make. His fastball is slower than Jamie Moyer's and has less movement than Bartolo Colon's. He's a fly-ball pitcher in a park where the left field fence is 314 feet away. In a year and a half in Cleveland, Borowski amassed an ERA over 5.50. His WHIP in 2008, was nearly 2.00. He allows more home runs than Nuke LaLoosh when Crash Davis tells the hitter the deuce is coming.

I know the market for relief pitching is thin, but the risk/reward here is not tilting in the Red Sox favor. I never smoked a cigarette in my life until I saw Borowski take the ball for his first save opportunity two April's ago. I now smoke a pack a day. Terry Francona lost 15 lbs dealing with the phenomena that is Manny Ramirez. Now that Manny is wearing Dodger blue, have mercy on Tito. A man's health is at stake here. Say NO to JoeBo.

Just Doesn't Look Right

On a day that we saw two future Hall of Famers, who combine for over 1100 home runs, change caps, I must say I'm having a hard time dealing with it. Ken Griffey Jr is in his 20th year of Major League service. He spent 11 years with the Seattle Mariners and the last 9 with Cincinnati. Now, Junior takes his act to the South Side of Chicago and back to center field as well.

Manny Ramirez takes the "Manny being Manny" show to LA. Like Griffey, Manny has played for only two teams during his 16-year career, eight each with the Indians and Red Sox. The eccentric slugger will now take orders from Joe Torre. A clash of the titans could be in store as Dodgers third base coach Larry Bowa is notorious for riding guys who don't hustle. It will be interesting to see how the remaining 8 weeks of the season play out.

I'd like to see Griffey get to play in the World Series, but seeing him in black pin stripes is going to take some getting used to.

Gateway to the West

While many have credited the St. Louis Cardinals success this season to manager Tony La Russa, the real reason for their success sits five feet to the right of him on the pine. Not many figured the Cardinals would be players for the National League Central crown when camps broke last Spring. Aside from the model-of-consistency that is Albert Pujols, the Red Birds were full of question marks. The most prominent being: How are we going to find 5 guys to throw in the rotation?

With Chris Carpenter and Mark Mulder sidelined with injury, the outlook looked bleak. So the Cards signed Kyle Lohse as an insurance policy for their dismal rotation. Braden Looper, Joel Piniero and Todd Wellemeyer don't exactly frighten hitters.

Enter Dave Duncan.



With his son roaming around in left field, Duncan has transformed his staff into the '05 ChiSox. They throw deep into games and allow minimal base runners. Kyle Lohse looks less and less like Eric Milton and more and more like Bob Gibson every time he toes the rubber.

Duncan is the only active pitching coach who didn't pitch during his big league career. He caught for the A's, Indians and Orioles and batted only .214. The 62 year old was responsible for the out-of-nowhere resurgence of Jeff Weaver during his teams '06 World Series run. That team however, was equipped with Cy Young winner Chris Carpenter.

With Carpenter scheduled to return in early August, Duncan may get some time off while the Cardinals make the push for the post season. La Russa may get most of the credit, but Duncan's work can be seen nightly in St. Louis. Without him, the Cardinals would be the cellar dwellers everyone expected them to be.

Dutch

I apologize for the poor picture quality (my photog had one too many jager bombs in them), but last week I had the privilege to meet former Philadelphia Phillies catcher Darren Daulton.

"Dutch" as he was commonly referred to as, was one of the nicer professional athletes I've met. He showed off his Florida Marlins '97 World Series ring and reminisced about his favorite characters from the Phillies. We laughed til it hurt as he told story after story of Krukie and Dykstra. One thing I took away from our conversation was how much enjoyment Daulton had as he told his stories. He truly loves the game and had a blast while he was playing.

Retirement looks to have treated Dutchie well. His golden tan and massive physique have not diminished since his playing days have ended. Plug him into any line-up today and he could rake with the best of them...and have a hell of a lot of fun doing it as well.

Bring Back the Juice

How pitiful is tonight's line-up for the State Farm Home Run Derby from Yankee Stadium? The lead-off hitter from the last place team in the AL Central is competing. True, Grady Sizemore is leading the Junior Circuit in four-baggers but come on. If you're going to rid the game of steroids then get rid of the home run derby. Instead, have a sacrifice bunt derby, or a work-the-count-and-draw-a-walk derby. The days of Big Mac and Slammin' Sammy crushing balls out of the stadium are long gone. Major League Baseball should bring back all those suspected steroid users and put them on display.


Official Prediction: Dan Uggla defeats Lance Berkman in the final round, winning a home in Miami for one lucky individual who will then negotiate relocating said home to somewhere where he can draw better.

Exercise in Caution

At the risk of beating a dead horse, I will offer my two cents once again at the impending C.C. Sabathia deal.

Cleveland is overly optimistic that they will be able to re-sign the south paw at season's end. When the '08 campaign commenced, Sabathia was clearly distracted by his possible free agency. He regained his Cy Young winning form since April and has been virtually unhittable in his last 8 starts. The lack-luster Indian offense has been unable to pick him up resulting in a sub .500 record for Sabathia.

So Tribe GM Mark Shapiro is in a belts and suspenders situation. Clearly the Indians have nothing to play for, yet upsetting the fanbase could result in decreased season ticket sales. So while I would like to see a return in top notch pitching prospects from a potential trade partner, the two draft picks Cleveland would acquire by losing Sabathia to free agency could prove to be worth it given the Indians excellent draft history.

A healthy Fausto Carmona and Jake Westbrook could team with Cliff Lee and Aaron Laffey to form a dominant rotation. Increased offense is much more critical, given the Indians needs.

So man up, Mr. Shapiro. Given an inevitable lose-lose situation, exercise caution and prove that no matter what, you are confident in your decision regardless of its analysis from the press. The Eerie Warriors have a tremendous core and while Sabathia's loss would be felt not only on the field but in the locker room, forcing the young athletes to assume more prominent roles may deem beneficial in the long run.

Bucking the Trend

Many Philadelphia Phillies fans were caught scratching their heads when the Phils failed to lock up first baseman Ryan Howard to a long term deal this off season. The perplexity turned to hostility as Howard got off to a horrendous start to the '08 campaign. The lack of financial security for the former NL MVP appeared to have derailed his focus. Howard was awarded the largest one year contract ever in arbitration, $10 million.

Phillies' GM Pat Gillick announced he would be retiring at season's end. So why not get Howard inked long-term and let it be someone else's problem down the road?

The truth is, Gillick may have been ahead of the curve as he declined to pay the big bucks for the masher in the middle of the line-up. The post-steroid era power outage in the big leagues this year has changed the offensive philosophy of many teams.

Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia has agreed quite well with hitters since opening in 2004. Problem is, the Phitins have struggled to find the pitching consistency necessary to exceed in post-season play. Offense can win you an NL East crown, but without pitching you can't expect to win a pennant.

So with LF Pat Burrell in the final year of his contract, it appears the Phils will have some money to throw at starting pitching in the off-season. Chase Utley was signed to a seven year, $85 million deal because of his ability to hit for average as well as tattoo balls into the cheap seats.

Conventional wisdom would say pay the man who won Rookie of the Year and followed that up with an MVP award. But Gillick's experience, wisdom, and intestinal fortitude allowed him to stand pat (pun intended) and keep his team in a position to succeed for a long time.

So Long, C.C.

Throughout this dismal year, the Cleveland Indians have maintained that they will not trade reigning AL Cy Young winner CC Sabathia. Despite a sub .500 record and a firm grip on last place in their division, the Tribe still hold high hopes that they will re-sign Sabathia.

Experts predict the big lefty will get moved before next month's trading deadline. While any potential deals are merely speculation, the Phildaelphia Phillies have the prospects and motivation to make a deal.

If there are two organizations in baseball that I know inside and out, it's the Indians and Phillies.

So here's the deal:

Phillies acquire
LHP Carsten Charles Sabathia
OF David Dellucci

Indians acquire
RHP Carlos Carrasco
OF Shane Victorino

Carrasco is projected as a front of the rotation guy with a fastball he can run up to 96 mph, a plus change up and devastating curve ball. He lacks command of all three which is the only reason he isn't pitching for Philadelphia today. Cleveland will have contractual control over him for several years and won't be losing that much if he pans out as expected.

Victorino plays exceptional defense and was born with a genetic mutation that resulted with a cannon for a right arm. He controls the bat well and uses the entire field. More importantly his salary is $480,000 this season. He is a high-energy guy who could team with Grady Sizemore to form one of the most athletic outfields in baseball. Imagine all the Web Gems.

Sabathia is looking for a contract similar to that of former Cy Young winners Johan Santana and Barry Zito. The small market Indians don't have the bank to pay Sabathia especially as they eat $11 million of Jake Westbrook's contract as he recovers from Tommy John surgery. Given CC's rather large physique, guaranteeing him anything past 4 years is a huge risk.

If Sabathia is merely a rental player for the stretch run, he will command much less than the prospect packages the Twins received for Santana and the A's received from Arizona for Dan Haren this past winter. As a compromise the Indians would be wise to package Dellucci and his $4 million contract for next season as he has largely been a disappointment.

The loss of Sabathia would be nauseating, however Cleveland will offer shots of Pepto Bismol to the first 10,000 fans in attendance. My guess is they may have a few left over.

Joba the Ace?

The Yankees have won 7 straight games. Alert the media. Is it possible that the mighty Bronx Bombers are going under the radar as they chase the Boston Red Sox and (gulp) Tampa Bay Rays?

They do still sit 5 full games behind the defending World Series champions. And they are dealing with inconsistent pitching from their young studs who they counted on excelling when they balked at a Johan Santana trade in February. Their ace, Chien-Ming Wang has injured his foot and will be out until at least September.

So how have they done it?

One word is sweeping the city so nice they named it twice: JOBA. Since Hank Steinbrenner complained that only an "idiot" would leave Chamberlain in the pen, the 22 yr old flamethrower has been stellar under treacherous conditions.

Imagine you were great at what you did for a living. Imagine you were so good and dominant that you were scheduled to replace the greatest closer of all time and no one was even sweating. Then imagine you are thrown into a completely different role and expected to resurrect the franchise. Not exactly a walk in Central Park.

So what has Joba done since his inclusion into the rotation? Limited by pitch count as they cautiously transition him to pitching every 5th day, Joba has been electric. The fear of losing significant velocity throughout a start has been non-existent. Last night he threw fastball after fastball past the San Diego Padres en route to striking out 9 over 5 and 2/3 innings.

The Yankees are about to get a tremendous momentum boost as the host the Mid-Summer Classic for the last time in the House that Ruth Built. It's true they may be on the elder side but with a young, fiery upstart skipper in Girardi and the best player on the planet in A-Rod they are on the verge of exploding. As heart-warming a story as the Rays have, it seems inevitable they will fade down the stretch. If Joba keeps on his torrent pace, he may be able to pitch the Yanks right into the World Series.

Never underestimate Cashman's ability to go out and add pitcher or another bat off the bench to try and catapult the team into a winning streak. With CC Sabathia on the market, look for those once untouchable pitchers, Hughes and Kennedy to be dangled to the Tribe for the best left-handed pitcher in the American League.

Wrong vs Right

It's human nature to want things to go well and be in control. When facing something we don't want to do, most people will attempt to resolve the situation and make it more enjoyable. But there's a right way to do it and a wrong way to do it. If you are a believer in karma you know what I'm talking about. And if you're not, look no further than what transpired last night as a perfect example.

Last off season, when it appeared the Los Angeles Lakers would be staring at another mediocre season, Kobe Bryant when on Stephen A. Smith's radio show letting the world know he wanted to be traded. He had given up on his team. With the league's largest contract and most talent, Kobe was immovable from the get-go. He threatened to sit out the entire season and ripped his teammates and the front office.

After the way the city of Los Angeles supported him during his sexual assault trial, I would say bailing on LA was immature. Nevertheless, he did what he felt was best for him.

Now let's take the red-eye to the east coast where the Lakers' biggest rival calls home. In Boston, Paul Pierce was also dealing with an identity crisis coming off the worst season in Celtics' franchise history. Pierce grew up rooting for the Lakers and wanted to get back to his roots on the West Coast. With a much more sensible contract, he could have easily demanded a trade to get out of Beantown.

So the General Managers of each franchise set out to surround their star players with the necessary talent to better the team and make their guys happy. Mitch Kupchak acquired Pau Gasol while Danny Ainge got Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett.

Both teams sailed through their respective conferences and arrived at the NBA Finals. It was a hard fought series but in the end the better team won.

Last night the Celtics captured the NBA Title for all the right reasons. So this off season, for karma's sake Kobe, keep your mouth shut.

Junior Griffey

When I was six years old, I thought I was Ken Griffey Jr. I wore my hat backwards and held my bat by the barrel instead of the handle as I swaggered to the plate. I drove my friends insane as I described every play I made as "Junior-esque". I would hit long fly balls into the neighbor's shrubs (also known as the green monster) and unstrap my gloves and admire my bomb with three steps before breaking into my home run trot. I wore No. 24 in little league and played center field. I told everyone I would be the next Ken Griffey Jr.

Until it was pointed out to me that Griffey was a southpaw and I unfortunately was north-pawed.

Not many things can devastate a six year old. Aside from the green Power Ranger being killed off the show, I cannot recall any more demoralizing event during my youth. Fortunately, I was able to overcome this travesty. My admiration for Junior has wavered as he's been banished to baseball obscurity, also known as Cincinnati. But no longer.

Tomorrow night at this time I will be sitting somewhere in the bleachers at Citizens Bank Park hoping to witness history. For the great Ken Griffey Jr has amassed 599 home runs throughout his stellar career. If Griffey does hit one tomorrow, it will make him only the sixth human being to hit 600 home runs. I've seen my share of ballgames in my day, but to see Griffey up close will cross off one of my biggest "to-do's" in sports. I have a feeling another home run may cross off one of Griffey's "to-do's" as well.

Pace of Game

I had to share this quote with you. Detroit Tigers Manager Jim Leyland on the pace of game memo handed down from the Commissioner's Office, "I'm not looking for trouble, I honor whatever the Commissioner does. If he wants me to do jumping jacks on the way to the mound, I'll do it. I'll do a cartwheel. I'll be glad to do it. I might look like a fool, but I'll do it.

Crafting a Winner

I’ve just won the lottery, $300 million. Enough to purchase the lowly Florida Marlins perhaps.

If I were to buy a Major League franchise, here’s what I would do. First off, I would be the owner/general manager ala Jerry Jones with the Dallas Cowboys.

We’ll use the Marlins for this example since they have the lowest payroll at the moment and have just agreed upon a new deal with the city of Miami for a new stadium.

I’d make sure I had a say in the ballpark development. The recent post-steroid era power outage in baseball has drastically changed the way the game is played. No longer is the best logic to sit around and wait for the 3-run homer to give you the lead. Instead, small ball and manufacturing runs have come back into style.

The new ballpark would be enormous in terms of field size. The fence in center would be at least 440 ft. Down the line in right field would be 350 ft and the left field line would be close to 375 ft. The gaps in left and right center would be a minimum of 400 ft.

It sounds insane but let’s not forget that the original dimensions of Yankee Stadium before its renovation in the ‘70s was 457 to left center, 461 to dead center and 407 to right center. These were the dimensions of the yard that Mickey Mantle, Roger Maris, Lou Gehrig and all the great Yankees hitters launched balls out of.

I would grow the infield grass high and slope the dirt toward the grass so all bunted balls remained fair.

My first goal to compiling my roster would be to get the two best catchers money could buy. Do you think it’s a coincidence that virtually every big league manager is an ex-catcher? Joe Torre, Joe Girardi, Mike Scioscia, Eric Wedge, and Jim Leyland were all backstops during their playing careers.

I firmly believe that a team is only as strong as it’s back-up catcher. The position is so brutal that you need to give your starter plenty of days off in order to keep him healthy and sane. So get the best two you can and teach them both to play first base. That way when one’s behind the dish you can DH the other or put him at first to spell him but still keep his bat in the line-up.

The rest of my positional players will all be guys who can handle the bat and hustle hard through every play. My dream line-up would consist of nothing but No. 2 hitters. In a ballpark as big as the one I’m proposing, concede the fact that you won’t be a home run hitting team and instead sign guys who can go the other way with two strikes, beat out infield singles, and sacrifice runners to the next base.

Derek Jeter and Placido Polanco are two guys who come to mind when it comes to doing whatever it takes to get on base or drive in a runner. They may not be the most gifted athletes, but they maximize what God gave them and have turned it into exceptional careers.

I want speed in the outfield as they will need to cover much more ground than your typical outfielder. Adam Dunn isn’t going to cut it in this ballpark; I don’t care if he can hit the ball a mile. Ideally, I would put three center fielders in my outfield and rotate them weekly at each position.

The size of the field wouldn’t limit my pitching staff to one specific type of pitcher. I would love to have a handful of sinker-ball pitchers as they tend to induce more ground balls and double plays. Another favorable aspect about sinker ball pitchers is they tend to work quickly. They don’t waste much time between pitches. They develop a rhythm that the infielders are fond of.

It’s a new era in Major League Baseball and General Managers across the league should take note of the changes. It’s my prediction that pure home run hitters will not receive as lucrative contracts as the players who can hit for average. Hanley Ramirez is arguably the best player in baseball and he hasn’t even peeked yet. On the open market it was predicted he would command around $200 million. Instead, he extended his contract with Florida for only $70 million and Hanley isn’t just a home run hitter.

You wait and see, the World Series champion this year will be a team that does the little things and it will change the course of baseball for the next decade.

Do you ever get down on your knees and thank God you know me and have access to my dementia?

I haven't been sleeping lately. Maybe it's the change in climate, or the fact that my workload just doubled, but I've found it increasingly difficult to recharge my batteries at night. As a result, I've utilized my insomnia and focused my attention on the only love in my life, the Cleveland Indians.

After last night's shutout of the Oakland Athletics, the Tribe's starters have recorded 34 consecutive scoreless innings. Nine innings each from Carmona and Lee, 7 and a third from Byrdie, and seven each from Sabathia and Laffey. As thrilled as I am with the recent performances, I must say it worries me horribly as well.

Last year Cleveland rode their two 19-game winners (C.C. and Fausto) into the ALCS. Only problem was, they had each fired so many innings that they ran out of bullets when it counted. Cleveland blew a 3-1 lead. In the off season Cleveland didn't make any substantial moves.

So here's my proposal. Currently Jake Westbrook is on the DL with a right rib cage muscle strain. He's scheduled to return in about three weeks. When he returns, it appears Cleveland will send Aaron Laffey back to Triple-A Buffalo. Let's keep him and utilize the dreaded 6-man rotation.

Sabathia, Carmona, Lee, Westbrook, Byrd and Laffey would not only get the job done, but with an extra day of rest over the course of the season they will make less starts and therefore be more apt to pitch well in September. This strategy could also keep Sabathia's stats down, possibly making it easier to re-sign him at season's end.

The pitchers will adjust after only a few starts and with scheduled off days and rain outs, pitching on an extra days rest is nothing new. If someone were to succumb to an injury, just plug in Jeremy Sowers who will make a spot start Friday against Cincinnati after the rain-out on Mother's Day.

We have the resources, why not use them in an effort to maximize our potential when we need it most? The playoffs.

Inter-League Play

I've spent many a work day bored out of my mind in my office and pondering ways to make Major League Baseball better. I do this so when I finally become commissioner I won't have to waste any time. This idea may need some convincing, but I like it and if you look at it with an open mind, you may as well.

I absolutely hate inter-league play. It has completely taken out the sanctity of the World Series. Nothing is worse than a World Series that includes two teams that played a home and home series in June. We'll get rid of that and instead, replace it with a divisional positioning series that begins on the last Monday of each month.

The site for each contest will be predetermined at the beginning of the year. The southern most team geographically will host the April series and the site will move north as the season progresses and temperature increases.

For this series alone, rosters will be allowed to expand to 32 players. Teams will compete in double-headers beginning on Monday and play each of the other teams in their division. The teams with the best records will then play a weekend series with 7:05 local start times. The third and fourth place teams will also play each other with 1:05 local start times. In the National League Central the fifth and sixth place teams will also play each other.

This leaves one odd team for the AL East and Central as well as the NL East and West. The fifth place teams in the mini-tournament will play each other at a neutral site predetermined based on geographical closeness.

This new format will accomplish two things. First, it will add excitement to the divisional races and help build rivalries, which in turn will help increase ticket sales. Second, it will help the weaker teams in the division catch up by directly playing those above them in the standings. The NFL has thrived on parity over the last decade (aside from the Patriots mini-signal stealing dynasty).

Of course the logistics of this idea will have to be hammered out but to compensate for the double-headers each team will have the following Monday off to rest and travel to their next destination.

It may sound whacky but I think it can work. No one loves the game of baseball more than myself, that's a bold statement but I stand behind it. I've thought about all the negative aspects of this but I think ultimately it can work.

Man Crush

For the record, I'm not gay (not that there's anything wrong with that). Although I do have a crazy man-crush on Chase Utley.

I mean seriously, is there a better role model in the game of baseball than Chase Utley. I'm a Cleveland Indians fan, but Utley has stolen my heart away from Grady Sizemore (sorry Grady, you're still my boy).

Yesterday, in a series against the Cubs, Utley double clutched before firing to Howard while attempting to turn two in the 10th inning. The ball took a weird hop, eluded Howard and made its way into the dugout, allowing the Cubs runner to score the decisive run. We're all human, nobody's perfect. What impressed me most was post-error, Chase sunk down, putting both hands on his knees and his head down. It's one game, in the middle of April against a non-division opponent. Yet, Chase cares.

As an Indians fan, I've witnessed too many players who didn't care (i.e. Joey Belle and Manny Ramirez). The only thing I ask of a player, is to give your all and CARE. In the post game interview, Chase owned up to his mistake, saying it was completely his fault, he let the team down, etc, etc. All I can say, is what a stand-up guy. No one blames him for the loss. The blown call homerun by Derosa in the 6th had a larger impact than Utley's throw (which, I watched the replay 11 times, I think Howard could have had it).

Chase signed a huge contract before the '07 season and has not let down the city of Philadelphia. His nickname is 'Dirtball' because of his Charlie Hustle style of play. He and his wife are active members in the community and volunteer at animal shelters throughout Philadelphia. Billy Joel may be right in "Only the Good Die Young" but if the good guys win a World Series this year, "Dirtball" will have a large say in it.

3 Worst Words

In February, I wrote a post titled "The Three Greatest Words in Sports". Well this weekend, I was unfortunately able to experience the three worst words in sports. Before I reveal that, it got me thinking what other 3 word phrases are least acoustically appreaciated. This list is not restricted to sports although my favorite ones are.

5. License and Registration
We've all heard it. It's usually accompanied by "Do you know why I pulled you over?" or "Do you know how fast you were going?". Now, if you're reading this from the male perspective you can understand why this phrase is in this category. We never get out of tickets based our flirting abilities.

4. Last Call, People
I've only been 21 for two weeks but it didn't take long for me to dread hearing this phrase. The lights flicker, everyone quiets, it's a depressing moment. The true veterans pace themselves to need another drink at this exact moment. I'm still retaining my amateur status while I pursue my dream to one day drink in the Olympics.

3. How many fingers?
Everyone, at some point or another was knocked to the ground and undoubtedbly a coach or trainer was standing over you with fingers extended, usually four asking the question: How many fingers? You have no doubt been either embarassed, or de-cleated, or any other negative word you may be fond of.

2. You're outta here.
This may be higher on Lou Pinella or Larry Bowa's personal list, but for now, I'll keep it at 2. Officials are human and can kick a call from time to time. In the heat of the moment, coaches may use some magic words that will result in them watching the rest of the game from the locker room.

1. You're still away.
I went golfing over the weekend. My playing partner was much better than myself. On a par 4, I hooked my ball into the rough off the tee. My partner hit a brilliant tee shot. My ball was burried. I grabbed my hybrid 2-iron and took a mighty whack. I was barely able to unearth the ball enough to get it back into the fairway. My partner, sitting in the cart evaluated my shot and replied, "you're still away". I cannot begin to explain the defeated feeling I was experiencing.

I consider myself a superstitious person and with the post, I hope to single handedly put the kay-bash on all my bad luck for years to come. Take that fate.

Expectations

Oh no! It's 2006 again!

In 2005, the youthful Cleveland Indians won 93 games and missed the playoffs by a mere 2 games. Heading into 2006, expectations were high that Cleveland would make its first postseason appearance since 2001. How did they respond? They won 78 games and finished fourth in a division they were largely regarded to run away with.

In 2007, no one knew what to think of the Indians. They had signed their young core to lengthy contracts giving them all financial security and making sure they would be together, through thick and thin. Notoriously slow starters, Cleveland got off to a tremendous start. The division lead changed hands, seemingly every week. The Tigers of Detroit were looking ferocious as ever after their disappointing World Series loss to the Cardinals the previous year.

When September came, Cleveland's inexperience didn't betray them. They won the division, tied the Red Sox for the best record in the Major's and looked poised to capture a World Series title that eluded the dominant Indian teams of the 90's.

The vaunted New York Yankees came into Cleveland and the youngsters said, "The hell with tradition." Without showing any intimidation, the Tribe systematically devoured the Yanks and marched into the ALCS to face the BoSox. After gaining a 3-1 series lead, Cleveland's dual aces showed signs of fatigue and lost the series in seven games.

So as many professional analysts picked Cleveland to win the pennant in 2008, anyone who followed the team knew to be wary.

Here's what Cleveland had going for them: Hafner had, by his standards, a forgettable 2007. No way he stumbled through '08. With Pronk mashing again in the middle of that order, it would take the pressure off of Martinez. Asdrubal Cabrera and Franklin Gutierrez gained valuable experience down the stretch last year and figured to be on the verge of breaking out. David Dellucci's injuries had subsided and his track record pointed to him having a solid year in left field. The starting rotation and bullpen were strengthened during the Spring and all signs pointed to "YES" for this to finally be the Tribe's year.

What no one looked at was what was working against the Tribe: C.C. Sabathia, in the last year of his contract, tables negotiations in order to 'focus' on the season. The 200+ innings thrown by each Sabathia and Carmona figured to have some lingering effect on the duo. Career years out of Peralta, Garko, and a plethora of timely hits seemed to have the forces of balancing leaning towards Cleveland coming back to reality in '08.

So what's happened so far in '08. That rock solid rotation has faltered. Sabathia and Byrd each own ERA's over 11.00. Borowski, blew another save in epic fashion, surrendering a walk-off grand slam to Torii Hunter. Aside from Sizemore, Tribe outfielders are hitting a miserable .147 (10-68) with only 6 RBI. Martinez strained his hamstring on opening day and has been like a UFO since (highly talked about, rarely seen).

Reigning AL Manager of the Year, Eric Wedge needs to refocus the team. Four wins in ten games aren't going to cut it in the American League Central Division. Fortunately for Cleveland, the Tigers can't discern a curveball from an apple pie. After this weekend's series with Oakland, Cleveland hosts two 2-game series with Boston and Detroit. This is where Cleveland can turn it around. I know it's early, but this team has proven that the pressure of expectations can influence them greatly. If they dig a hole too deep, they may never escape.

Opening Day

Today's the day. Finally, it's here. Opening Day 2008. I am eagerly awaiting the 3:05 start of the Cleveland Indians vs. Chicago White Sox today. The reigning Cy Young Award Winner CC Sabathia toes the rubber for The Tribe as they look to defend their American League Central Crown. The beauty of opening day is it's the one time you're guaranteed (barring injuries) to see each staff's ace face off against each other. Our 'guy' versus your 'guy'. Forget about last year, because it means nothing. It's a fresh start for everyone. Wipe the slate clean and let's get to it.

Last night's game between Atlanta and Washington was a real treat to watch. The Nationals debuted an absolutely beautiful new stadium last night as the featured game of the week, broadcast nationally on ESPN. It warmed my heart to hear Jon Miller and Joe Morgan back to their old routine with Peter Gammons occasionally chipping in with insightful nuggets of gossip that grabs my attention like The Young and the Restless captures my grandmother's. Ryan Zimmerman sent everyone home happy hitting a frozen rope over the left-center field wall for his fourth career walk-off home run. While no one expects the Nats to contend this season, they are running their team the right way and will be in a position to contend within the next 10 years.

Every day I am forced to grow up more and more whether I like it or not. But when I'm watching a baseball game, I can be a kid again and truly be captivated by the magnificence of this sport. I can barely contain my excitement as we get ready for, what could be, a season to remember.

MILESTONE ALERT: Keep a close eye on the Red Sox for the next few weeks. Left fielder Manny Ramirez connected for his 491st career home run in Japan last week. Nine shy of the vaunted 500 homer club. Manny will be the 24th player in Major League history to achieve this milestone. Good Luck Manny!

Student/Athletes or Athletes with Benefits

Let's set the scene for you. It's noon on Thursday, the opening day of the NCAA Basketball Tournament. I've just finished building the ultimate sandwich and as modest as I am, I have to admit, this thing is a masterpiece. I'm on a health kick right now so my sandwich is a variety of cured meats, thinly sliced provolone cheese, baby spinach leaves, bacon bits, and to finish it off, this monster is smothered in ranch dressing. OK, it might not be the healthiest sandwich ever, but it was that or a cheese steak, so I'm not going to split hairs. I've got a nice tall glass a V8 for even more nutrients and a bag of sunflowers seeds. The baseball purist in me can't fully give in to the domination basketball takes on this weekend.

I settle down on the couch, grab my laptop and shoot off a quick e-mail to my professor, letting her know the dreaded 24-hour Ebola virus has consumed me and I will be unable to attend class today. As I click 'send' it hits me, "I'm skipping class to watch these guys, when the hell do they go to class?!"

So often we hear the term student/athlete used to describe those participating in athletics at the collegiate level. But with conference tournaments tipping off at noon on a Wednesday and playing straight through the weekend, when do these kids find time to fulfill the student part of student athlete. Missing one class from my heavy workload puts me so far behind, I need to claw and dig my way out just to get a breath of fresh air. March Madness is what is occurring behind close doors at these Universities as students are drinking Red Bulls to assist the all-nighters so they can pass their midterms while those able to throw a leather ball through a cylinder are being pampered and given exemptions from class.

Now, am I only ranting because I'm jealous? Absolutely, but that doesn't mean I'm wrong. I waste a significant amount of time that should be spent on my studies watching these games, imagine playing in them. It's impossible to participate in a top notch Division 1 basketball or football program and take on a normal schedule of classes (12-15 credits) without receiving unfair advantages that the average student does not benefit from. I'm not even considering the fact that these students are paying tuition inflated heavily to cover the athletes scholarships, most of whom will bail for the pros before every receiving a degree.

I love watching college sports. LOVE IT. But this system is flawed and the blind eye needs to be focused back on to doing what is right.