Humble Pie

I didn't want to write this post. For years, hockey has provided me with a multitude of jokes. Not just about the sport, but the hyperbole that ensues when comparing it to anything I didn't care about. I grew up not giving hockey the time of day. Then the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins moved to my hometown and I started to kind of like it. I used how great live hockey is as an excuse to go the games, but I never cared about the NHL.

Then I moved to Philadelphia.

I've only gone to a handful of Flyers games, but the ones I have were incredible. The atmosphere beats every other sport hands down. I think its because hockey is such an exclusive club. You have to really be a fan to know the players and all the rules. So if the guy next to you knows what he's talking about then you immediately respect him and have a bond. I started last year just following the Flyers and fell in love with many of the players. Miraculously, the Broad Street Bullies made it all the way to the Stanley Cup Finals. This year, however, I find myself paying attention to more than just the Fly Guys. It culminated about two weeks ago when HBO kicked off its 24/7 series following the Penguins and Capitals as they lead up to their New Year's Day Winter Classic match-up at Heinz Field.

Simply put: It's AWESOME.

You learn all about the protocols that take effect when it comes to fighting and the preparation. It follows players to their home lives and you see them off the ice. I'm sure that's exactly what Gary Bettman wanted when he OK'd the show, but I've got to tell you, it definitely worked. Between Sydney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin, I can't stop watching. The coaches are enthralling and I find myself watching more and more hockey, even when Philly isn't playing. Not only are these guys superb athletes, they are tough as nails. Myself, standing at a mere 5'10'', always find myself rooting for the little guy. While most of these hockey guys could double as NFL linebackers, there are the occasional 'little guy' who gets the snot kicked out of him nightly and keeps coming back for more.

I can't pretend to be a loyal hockey fan. But I'm trying. I regret the years I spent bashing the NHL and now truly appreciate its place in sports culture and everything it provides to a city. My name is KC Jordan and I'm a hockey fan. It's been two days since my last game. And I can't wait to fall off the wagon.

Guess Who's Back?

It may be 20 degrees in Philadelphia today, but you'd never know it. For the second time in 18-months, the Phillies acquired stud left-handed pitcher Cliff Lee. It came out of nowhere. Somewhere around 6 p.m. last night word started to spread that the Phils were the mystery team still involved in the negotiations for Lee's services. But they were up against the Yankees unlimited budget and the fact that they scorned Lee by shipping him to Seattle this time last year to make room for Roy Halladay. Everyone wanted him back but in the eyes' of the fan base it was more that a million-to-one shot. Then the news came down just after midnight, Lee accepted the Phillies offer and would be teaming up to form the greatest rotation in the history of baseball.

After the initial exuberance subsided and more details began to emerge, it became even more unbelievable that the reports were true. He left $50 million on the table from New York and $30 million from Texas. He signed for less guaranteed years (5) then the Yankees and Rangers offered (6). This marks the third time in the last year that a coveted pitcher has asked to go to Philadelphia. First it was Roy Halladay, who went on to win the Cy Young this year and then it was Roy Oswalt at the deadline. Both players were acquired via trade, but both had no-trade clauses and could have easily nixed the deal. Halladay took much less than he would have commanded had he reached free agency because he wanted to go to Philly. This just doesn't happen. It's too good to be true. Based on the trade that brought Halladay in and sent Lee out last year, I fully expected Amaro to trade Hamels to the Rockies by lunch today. But it didn't happen and now the Phils will have Halladay, Lee, Oswalt and Hamels leading the way to October next season.

For all of you loyal Phils fans who kept your Lee #34 jerseys, don't fret. Lee will wear #33 but no one will chastise you for rocking last years uni. Personally, I couldn't be happier. I've followed Lee since his younger days in Cleveland where he quickly became one of my favorite players and the fact that he spurned the Yanks makes me love him even more. My only wish now was that I could fast forward time to Opening Day 2012 because this season will be more fun to watch than any other in the sport's history. Eight weeks til pitchers and catchers. Until then, it's the Mike Vick show in Philly.

The Hot Stove Just Got a Little Hotter

I have tremendous respect for baseball journalists. In fact, when I was little, instead of wanting to play baseball, I wanted to cover it. The offseason has to be difficult when it comes to finding enough content to fill the pages, but I had to laugh at an ESPN.com article that reported the Red Sox were willing to non-tender Jonathan Papelbon had Mariano Rivera accepted their two year/$30 million offer.

I understand where they're coming from but does anyone in the baseball world think the Red Sox had more than a 0.0001% chance of landing Mo? Not only is he the greatest closer who ever picked up a baseball, he's done it for the most historic and legendary team in baseball. Why on Earth would he ever pick-up and leave for the one team he's automatically programmed to hate with the fire of a thousand burning suns? I don't think there's any amount of money that could have taken Rivera out of the Bronx. At some point, you have to just sit back and say, "we might not want to even bother posting this article".

Of course Rivera was going to re-sign. Of course Jeter was going to re-sign. And of course Andy Pettitte is going to re-sign. Tomorrow I'll have a blog post about Christmas coming and it being cold in Alaska. Or I'll do what ESPN should have done and just assume everyone knows that in the first place.

Oh to be a fly on the wall in the Derek Jeter negotiations. Here you have your captain and face of the franchise. He's the most beloved athlete since, actually I can't think of anyone more beloved than Jeter. Even if you hate him, you secretly love him. His skills obviously are declining as is to be expected by any athlete approaching 40 not named Barry Bonds. I wouldn't have budged from my initial offer if I was the Yanks. What's Jeter going to do? Go play for the Minnesota Twins because they might have offered him more. No way! In all seriousness, the Yankees were generous at 3 yrs/$45 mil. If I'm running that team I offer him 2 yrs for $20 million and make him decide not be the short stop of the Yankees anymore.

Some argue that he should get paid for his past accomplishments. Not only is that horrible business sense, last I checked Jeter just finished a 10 year contract that paid him $189 million. Not exactly underpaid, especially for a guy that doesn't steal bases or hit for much power. I'd argue they won that World Series in 2009 in spite of Jeter and not because of him. Robinson Cano is clearly the best player on that team and yet is making money comparable to Juan Uribe. Have we heard a peep out of Cano? I didn't think so.

Unless the Yankees sign Cliff Lee, which I bet dollars to donuts doesn't happen, they're going to struggle this year. Oh they'll win their division and cruise into the second round of the playoffs, but there is no reason to believe their pitching we'll get them another World Series. Lee doesn't strike me as a New York guy and I think if Texas offers anything close to what New York offers, he'll stay with the state you don't mess with. I have the same feeling with Carl Crawford and Jayson Werth. Werth is going to get ridiculously overpaid and the only place where he can put up stats close to what he's going to earn is Boston. With that heavy uppercut swing, I can't think of a park more suited for his services than Fenway. Crawford is most certainly on his way to Anaheim and I think it's because of his hatred for New York after all those years in Tampa.

With Lance Berkman signing in St. Louis, that leaves the Yankees with some definite holes. A-Rod can't catch up to the inside heat anymore, Jeter is losing range at a higher rate than the ozone layer and Mark Teixeira's April slumps are turning into May and June slumps as well. Cano's a beast but Posada is older than any catcher should be. Granderson is erratic and while I love Brett Gardner, he just doesn't fit the make up of the club. Guys who play small ball need to play a role in a team dedicated to manufacturing runs. The Yankees are a wait for three-run homer kind of club. And if I'm right and Crawford and Werth sign elsewhere, that leaves Swisher in right (ouch) and no solid DH.

The rotation is a mess. After Sabathia, who obviously isn't sticking to that Subway diet he endorses in the commercials, you have the head-case AJ Burnett and Phil Hughes who has been pushed past his innings limit in past seasons and will undoubtedly show it in 2011. Vazquez left for Florida and that leaves two spots to fill. There's help on the farm but no matter how good you look in Triple-A, the Major Leagues are a different beast and there's no way to tell how playing in the Big Apple will affect a guy.

Maybe its more wishful thinking than fact, but the Yanks have a lot of work to do if they want to get back to the promise land. The Red Sox just acquired Adrian Gonzalez, Tampa's going to lose Crawford but they've got Desmond Jennings ready to step in. The Blue Jays have a tremendous pitching staff and the Orioles played like a team possessed under Buck Showalter down the stretch. The AL East is once again the best division in baseball and it's going to be a 162-game knock down, drag-out fight. How long 'til pitchers and catchers report?

No Man!

The official attendance was listed at 46,661. Twenty years from now, half a million people will claim they were in attendance. But I was there. In standing room only. In the rain. In the cold. With 46,000 others. Screaming at the top of my lungs.

This game was unlike any other I've been to before. Even before it started, there was a different feeling in the air. We all knew Doc was going to throw zeros, but that was in terms of runs allowed. We figured the Central Division champs, which led the league in hitting, slugging, OPS and virtually every other offensive category, would be able to get one measly hit. We erupted in excitement as he retired lead-off hitter Brandon Phillips to start the game.

"He's perfect so far, 26 to go," I said.

The fans huddled around me laughed. But my friends who attended with me nodded, knowing there was a distinct possibility he could do it. We felt it. The crowd got louder with every out. In the long list of games I've attended, I don't remember the Bank being louder than when the home plate umpire rang up Scott Rolen on a pitch that was a solid 4 inches off the plate. Forty-six thousand people expressed their disdain for Rolen, who argued briefly. Had he been ejected, the ground may have collapsed from everyone jumping up and down.

Not one batter that came to the plate looked comfortable. A first pitch strike to 25 of 28 batters will do that. His fastball had pinpoint precision. His curve ball was a knee-buckler and he threw 10 of the greatest change-ups I've ever seen in the history of baseball. He didn't want to come to the National League because he hated to hit, yet on this historic day, he had more hits than he surrendered.

The ninth inning was unlike anything I've ever experienced in my life. Most professional athletes will preface expressing their joy by saying something to the effect of "Next to the day I married my wife and the day my son was born, this is the greatest day of my life." Well I'm not married. And I don't have any kids. And just being honest, unless that kid comes out tap dancing, last night will be the greatest night of my life. I hugged complete strangers for well beyond what is considered socially acceptable. Nine innings ago we said hello, yet we will remember each other for the rest of our lives.

We climbed onto the railing where those standing place their drinks and food. The woman working as usher immediately instructed us to get down. We ignored her completely. By the time the second out was recorded she had changed her stance to, "just be careful". She understood. When Phillips hit the little tapper in front of the plate, every rally towel plummeted to waist high. The clapping stopped. The cheers fell silent. It was pure torture for all of one and a half seconds. It's like milli-second when you see the squirrel run out in front of the car but you don't have enough time to brake or swerve. Your heart jumps into your throat and it's out of your control at this point.

We had the utmost confidence in Chooch making the play. But it was a difficult one and no one would have blamed him had he been unable to retire Phillips. Instead, Ruiz makes what turns out to be a remarkable play. Dropping to both knees and looping the ball to Howard. Chooch's heart was obviously pounding as well and for him to stay cool and make that throw, when he had to make sure the throw avoided Phillips, who was clearly running inside the baseline, is incredible.

We jumped up and down. We screamed until our voices gave out and then we got hammered. No one left the stadium. It took forty-five minutes for anyone to even move from their seat. The ballpark bar, McFadden's, was electric. Women dancing on the bar, shots being poured everywhere and good times being had by all.

It was the greatest game of the year...and it was only Game 1!

It's Nights Like These We Live For

What is it about the game of baseball that brings out so much emotion in people?

Yesterday was on of the best day's of baseball I can remember watching in a long time. For me, it was the perfect storm of sporting days. It started around noon when the maintenance staff at work came to me to discuss painting my office. I had my laptop and with my office building Wi-Fi enabled I was able to relocate to the lounge where I flipped on the Phillies/Rockies game. I did everything that was asked of me work-wise and was able to kick back and enjoy some day baseball. The Phils looked good, getting timely hits and capitalizing on some Colorado defensive struggles. The ninth inning served as a stress test having to watch the inconsistent Brad Lidge nearly give the game away before finally nailing down the save.

I drove home listening to my favorite local sports radio talk show and knew it was going to be one of those days. I planned on watching my Indians take on the Yankees with Alex Rodriguez sitting on 599 career home runs. Cleveland hung in there against the best team in baseball despite the fact that the Tribe have a team payroll totaling 25% of the mighty Yankees. As Cleveland attempted to tie the game in the 9th against the greatest closer of all time, I felt safe in bouncing around the channels to see what else was going on in the wide world of sports. Much to my delight, I find out Matt Garza of the Rays is 3 outs away from this season's 5th no-no. Stumbling upon history like that is truly remarkable. I don't think I'd be as happy if a found a $100 bill sitting on the sidewalk as I walk to work.

Garza was dealing and managed to get the 27th out without surrendering a hit. My favorite part of any no-hitter is watching the teammates mob the star of the night. The jubilation on the face of Rays' ace David Price nearly brought me to tears. Price could be seen throughout the game sitting on the top step of the dugout hopping around like a little girl. When the bullpen guys come sprinting to the mound to tackle their comrade, I always get choked up. After watching the celebration and obligatory pie-in-the-face, I jumped over to watch the Twins hang 19 runs on the Royals.

I picked the White Sox to win the Central before the season began and they haven't disappointed so far, but the Twins play such a unified game and really do the little things that make teams successful. I'd be surprised if they didn't make a run at the division before all is said and done.

The night ended for me with the Red Sox and Angels. Clay Buchholz took the bump for Boston. I remember watching Buchholz toss a no-hitter against the Orioles in only his second big-league start. Opposite Buchholz was the newly acquired Dan Haren. Haren is anchoring my fantasy team staff this year so I wanted to see how he responded to the trade. Unfortunately for Haren, he was struck by a line-drive in the forearm, prematurely ending his night. The game was still a great one to watch as the rejuvenated Big Papi smacked two balls deep into the night.

As I laid in bed watching SportsCenter, I had this tingling feeling running through my body. I wanted to call everyone I know and tell them about how amazing the baseball played on this night was. LeBron James had a humungous billboard in Cleveland with the text 'We Are All Witnesses' plastered on the side of a building outside the Quicken Loans Arena. Well last night we were all witnesses to the greatest game ever invented and I can't wait for the action to resume today to see what history will take place.

Yes He Can!

I rearranged my entire evening last night to be in front of the television at 7pm. I don't do this often. As a sports fan, I like to be close to the game. Ideally I would like to be sitting behind home plate, but often resort to Plan B, aka my couch. Fifty inches of stunning high definition leave little to be desired. If I'm in the car I'll pop on the radio and get my fix there. Worst case scenario, I follow the box score on my BlackBerry. I like to know what's going on but I don't always need to be watching.

But not last night.

Aside from Jesus himself coming back to Earth, I was not missing the Washington Nationals game. I made sure dinner was already prepared and the dog had been emptied. I turned the ringer on my phone off and left my laptop upstairs in my office. I wanted an uninfluenced account to the Major League debut of pitching phenom Stephen Strasburg. We've been hearing the hype since his final days at San Diego State. It was a foregone conclusion that Strasburg would be drafted first overall. After a few minor league starts the legend began to build. I felt there were unjust expectations on this kid. He played in to it as well. When asked by the Nationals if he would like to throw out the first pitch the day after he was drafted he declined. His rationale was that the first time he stepped on the mound at Nationals Park he wanted it to be his first start. I knew on that day that he had a good head on his shoulders. But still, there was no way he could live up to the hype. A dismal franchise that has regularly finished last in the NL East was grooming this kid as a the savior: the pitcher who would turn around the franchise and establish them as a force to be reckoned with. I thought the pressure was unfair. No one player could do that, no matter how good they were projected to be.

The Nationals had issues well beyond the disastrous product they were putting on the field. A former GM was investigated for skimming a percentage of the signing bonuses given to Latin players and pocketing the cash. They played in a ballpark that was never meant to house baseball and their best player was refusing to report to the outfield after the manager determined he could no longer adequately play second base any longer. Last year, the team wore jersey's with Natinals draped across the front. Pretty sure there is an 'o' missing somewhere in there. One kid could never change this team.

Enter Stephen Strasburg.

The eyes' of the baseball world were focused on the nation's capital last night as Strasburg took the bump. What ensued is difficult to properly describe with words. Let's start with the stuff you can measure. Seven innings, two earned runs on four hits, one of which was a long home run off the bat of Delwyn Young. He didn't walk a batter and worked extremely quickly, not wasting time between pitches. Oh and he struck out 14 batters. The first start of his career and he struck out 14 batters.

Now let's get to the intangibles. His mound presence was menacing. He's 6'4'' but looked like Randy Johnson up there. His fastball, which topped out at 100 mph, was dynamic. We've all seen what Ubaldo Jimenez has done with a 100 mph fastball this season, but Strasburg's has movement. That's right, 100 mph with movement. I've never seen velocity and movement combined like that. His change-up appeared to be the pitch he had the least confidence in and still got batters to miss. He throws a slider-curve hybrid that goes 3-8 on the clock. He threw it at the heads of right handed batters and it ends up on the outside corner at their knees. On top of that he has a heavy 2-seamer with late-breaking sink. All of these pitches thrown with superb command. He didn't seem affected after surrendering the home run. As a matter of fact he seemed to pitch better striking out the side in his final two innings.

You can't give him a Cy Young after one start but there's reason to be excited in DC. The naysayers will tell you it came against the Pirates and that once the league gets some video tape on him they'll make adjustments. Well the Pirates have a pretty good line-up and the league has had videotape on Roy Halladay for ten years and still can't hit him. He's only 21 so things can change. Like any young pitcher he'll have his struggles. But keep on eye on Washington every fifth day for the rest of this season. You might just see something you've never seen before.

No One's Perfect

I can't stop thinking about this missed perfect game. Even with an excellent Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Finals and a mediocre but still entertaining Game 1 of the NBA Finals, my mind remains in Motown. Commissioner Selig made the right decision in not reversing the call. While it was a rare and special circumstance, the legitimacy of the game was at stake. Had he reversed the call, the entire umpire's union would be undermined and lacked any sense of authority going forward. The only reason I thought Selig might reverse it was because the call in question had zero impact on the outcome of the game. The only thing that would have changed is Galarraga's WHIP and Jason Donald's batting average. All things considered, Bud did the right thing.

As I thought more about it, I began to realize some of the subtleties that may be overlooked by a casual fan. A perfect game isn't just something accomplished and celebrated by a pitcher. It's effects loom large organizationally. Tigers' catcher Alex Avila would be able to add catching a perfect game to his resume. Announcers for both Detroit and Cleveland would always have the distinction of calling a perfect game. These are things that get you remembered forever. While Galarraga and everyone who watched know in their hearts that he was perfect for 27 outs, the accolades his supporting cast would have received will be lost to the wayside.

The scene at home plate yesterday was what makes baseball the greatest sport on the planet. Galarraga walked to home plate where the umpires were gathered and presented Jim Joyce with the day's line-up card. Joyce was visibly emotionally, wiping away tears as he accepted the line-up card olive branch. Noticing the sensitive moment, Galarragga reached out and patted Joyce on the back, reassuring him that everything would be alright. After collecting himself, Joyce returned the smack on the back and baseball was played. While the boos from the fans poured down for Joyce, the overall tone was one of empathy. It was a great lesson for little leaguers to take note of. Amid travesty, the game prevailed and brought together an elite fraternity of Major Leaguers. No one is bigger than the game and at the end of the day, we're all people. I was truly impressed with the compassion showed by the Tigers and especially Galarraga. That man has reached a level of respect in my book that is not easily ascertained. Everyone's opinions will be different, but we can move on and get excited for what promises to be another outstanding year of baseball.

Not Envious of Bud Selig Right Now

Wow! Still trying to find the words to properly express my feelings on last night's game in Detroit. Tigers' starter Armando Gallaraga retired the first 26 batters he faced before Indians short stop Jason Donald reached base on a blown call by first base umpire Jim Joyce. Donald hustled hard down the line after chopping a ball near the hole between first baseman Miguel Cabrera and second baseman Carlos Guillen. Cabrera got to it and after settling himself fired a perfect strike to Gallaraga who was covering the bag. Joyce was in position, yet ruled Donald safe when clearly he was out by one-half step. The term 'bang-bang' is used to describe a play close enough to go either way. This was no such play. Donald was out and it wasn't close.

While Tigers skipper Jim Leyland argued profusely after the game concluded, it was too late for anything to be done. Gallaraga admitted his disappointment but also recognized that umpires are human and mistakes are made. Joyce ran back to the clubhouse and watched the replay. Upon realizing his error he apologized immediately and publicly. The emotion in his voice was genuine and sincere. No one feels worse than Joyce that he robbed this kid of something that only 20 men have done in the lengthy history of this game. Leyland even admitted that Joyce is one of the better umpires in the game and he was merely protecting his player and venting his frustration when he confronted Joyce after the game.

Today, every media outlet that covers sports is talking about this tragedy. As I'm writing this, Commissioner Bud Selig is discussing the possibility of reversing the call. This is a dicey situation. First of all, the main glory in tossing a perfect game is being mobbed by your teammates and receiving a standing ovation from the fans. Reversed call or not, Gallaraga will never have that feeling. Secondly, while I think all of Major League Baseball would agree that reversing the call is the right thing to do to get this kid what he deserves, the precedent being set is volatile. This is a very special circumstance where an epically historical moment took place. The call in question didn't happen in the third inning or sixth inning, or even on the first batter in the ninth inning. It happened on the the would-be 27th out. Had the call been made correctly, the game is over and history is made. In this circumstance alone, I agree with over-turning the call and making things right. However, this should not and cannot be an everyday thing. When video footage clearly shows a call was kicked, the Commissioner cannot reverse every ruling. I fear that teams will get too loose with their requests for review. That will ruin the game of baseball.

The kid pitched one hell of a game; an absolute gem. He deserves to have his performance recognized as perfect. Selig has to make a tremendously difficult decision. I just hope this phenomenal moment doesn't alter the way games are officiated from here on out.

Laugh a Little, Will Ya?

As if ESPN wasn't already the leader in everything that is sports, they are now dominating commercials as well. Advertising is one of the most difficult professions to make a living on. When a commercial hits its' mark I like to applaud it.

Watch this quick spot and enjoy the subtle hilarity that makes this commercial simply amazing.

Arnold Palmer has nothing left to prove. His legendary status is firmly planted in the history of professional sports. Yet he

saw an opportunity to connect with a youthful fan base and I

must say, my respect and fondness of him has since gone

through the roof.

This next one is only for the nerdiest of baseball nerds. Check it out.

I can't tell you how many times I wish I knew sign language,

just for this very situation. Mike Scioscia plays the part

perfectly and Torii Hunter's infectious laugh and engaging

smile make this commercial brilliant as well.

While I enjoy the MLB Network and Fox Sports Network,

ESPN still holds the heavyweight title. Never resting on their

laurels, they continue to have the Midas Touch with

everything they choose to take on.

Junior Being Junior

In a weekend filled with great sports moments, my favorite has to be the one involving Ken Griffey Jr. Reports out of Seattle are that when Mariners manager Don Wakamatsu wanted the lefty to pinch-hit during a game last week, Junior was asleep in the clubhouse. Two unidentified teammates were quoted as saying Griffey ran back to the clubhouse to grab a jacket in the fifth inning and was found 'sound asleep' in a chair in the seventh.

I don't blame him. Have you tried to watch a Seattle Mariners game lately? They should prescribe videotape of M's games to insomnia patients. Forget counting sheep, watch a Casey Kotchman at-bat. It will be morning before you know it.

Seriously though, enough's enough with this guy. I've heard of pitchers sleeping in the clubhouse on their off-day or closers catching a few z's until the seventh inning stretch, but this is a tad ridiculous. You're making a couple million dollars, at least stay conscious during the game if you're only going to hit your weight. Manny might show up at the wrong stadium or in the wrong clubhouse but he's always ready to play. I just hope Seattle doesn't react to harshly and cut him, which is what any player other than Griffey would probably get dealt. His legendary status in that city will save him, but for how much longer remains to be seen. He was so dynamic and spectacular during his career, this is not the way I want to remember him. Had it not been for several unfortunate injuries, brought on by how hard he played, we would be looking at Junior approaching 1000 home runs. The sweetest swing in baseball history is now used only to cool off the pitcher when he's feeling a little too hot. Please Junior, just hang 'em up. You'll sleep much better at home.

The Voice of the Tigers

RIP Ernie

January 25, 1918 — May 4, 2010

Whiz Wit

I attended my first live baseball game of the season today. It feels as though a weight has been lifted from my shoulders. In this day and age of high definition televisions and a dismal economy requiring many families to cut back on luxuries, going to the ballpark is no longer the top option for viewing a game. For me there is nothing that compares to attending the game live. There's so much more than just the balls and strikes on the field. The camaraderie of being in complete agreement with total strangers is a special feeling. The zany antics of the mascots and the promotions staffs to engage the fans truly makes the game an event that can transcend your attitude. The interactions between players and coaches often go unnoticed during televised broadcasts, but when you're up close and personal you get to see all that. It's what makes baseball the greatest sport in the world. If you're reading this then I need not convince you of the wonders of baseball, so instead I'll air a grievance that I encountered during my trip to the ballpark.

The game I attended was between the Philadelphia Phillies and Florida Marlins at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. Everyone knows the staple of most Philly diets include the almighty cheese steak sandwich. Some may call it a hoagie but true Philadelphians know better. When ordering a steak sandwich you must specify what type of cheese you would like and whether or not you would like onions on your sandwich. It's a thing of beauty as the cooks chop up the meat and build this masterpiece. I always like to compare a good cheese steak to cotton candy. You don't even have to chew it, just melts in your mouth. The cheese steak sandwich pictured to the right is from Pat's King of Steaks, my cheese steak provider of choice. Unfortunately, what the cheese steak delivers in total awesomeness, it lacks in general healthiness. I devoured a steak sandwich that was just over a foot long, tossed in a few french fries and washed it down with several ice cold beers. Recently I've completely revamped my diet, personally preparing and cooking everything I eat as well as eating organic foods almost exclusively. As much as it pains me, I haven't had my beloved Taco Bell in months. I took one bite of my sandwich and realized I had completely abandoned my new healthy diet.

I was so wrapped up in the allure of the ballpark that I failed to keep my priorities in order. The game was a snoozer, with runs coming few and far between so on my way back from the facilities I decided to investigate what my healthier options could have been had I been thinking clearly. Turns out there are several healthy options including veggie and vegan substitutes for burgers and hot dogs as well as garden salads and veggie-packed sandwiches and hoagies. I asked one of the workers how well these healthy foods sell and the response was dismal. While I commend the Phillies organization for providing these options, I condemn the fans, myself included, for failing to take advantage of them. While I recognize this is America, a country that guarantees freedom to choose disgusting food, I would like to see Major League Baseball step up and mandate health reform in the concession stands. Smoking is no longer permitted in the stadium, so why should food that can contribute to your death just as easily as a cigarette be allowed?

Business will dictate that the greasier foods sell better but my contention is that people will not starve. If they are hungry they will eat and if the only options are healthy options then they will eat the healthy foods. We watch athletes who are in supreme physical condition, yet we view them from a stagnant position indulging in foods that will only further ensure we never become the players we adore. Time and time again, Americans have proved that given the ability to make a decision, we will inevitably make the wrong one. Let's remove the decision making and make our health a top priority. It sounds radical but people are able to adapt and adjust at incredible speed. Sooner or later it will just become the norm. The amount of children that attend these games is tremendous and the example we are setting is disastrous. Teach them the right way to treat your body and those little fans will one day become the teachers. My next tickets are for the May 2nd game against the Mets and I will be eating a veggie wrap at that game. Change starts one person at a time. Will you be next?

Something Left to be Desired

Let me preface this post by saying how spoiled I was for the first 21 years of my life. At just 16 days old I heard Harry Kalas call Michael Jack Schmidt's 500th home run. And every summer since then I've let Harry the K teach me about the game of baseball. Until I was 10 years old, Whitey Ashburn sat next to Harry forming one of the greatest broadcast booths in the history of sports. Since Harry left us last year, baseball just hasn't been the same. An organization as stacked as the Phillies needs to recognize their shortcomings in the broadcast department and make a change.

Chris Wheeler and Tom McCarthy have zero chemistry. T-Mac needs to drop the showmanship and just talk. The voice he has crafted is unappealing. Wheels on the other hand, needs to add some professionalism to the job. His comments are uninspired and lackluster. The hunky-dory, aw shucks attitude is not what an organization like the Phillies need. And then there's Gary Matthews. Thank goodness he's only in the booth for 3 innings because I don't know what I would do if he called all nine. Sarge has great rapport with players and is stellar in the post game on field interview. He should be in the stands getting fan input during the game instead of complaining about the same things every game. If he describes one more Ryan Howard home run trot as 'cadillac-ing' around the bases I'm going to lose my mind.

The Comcast post-game show is fairly good when it's Michael Barkann and Mitch Williams but Ricky Bottalico is just plain awful. His insight as a former closer is great, but all he does is talk about the negatives and has absolutely no personality or character at all. Is it too much to ask that you get top notch guys? The recent addition of Darren Daulton has potential, but having met Dutchie before I can tell you he's absolutely crazy. Hopefully he can bottle the craziness and be a great analyst.

If there was no legitimate replacements out there then I wouldn't complain this much. However, sitting in the booth next to them is Scott Franzke and Larry Andersen. Anyone who has listened to Franzke and L.A. knows how well they work together. Andersen is a total homer but that doesn't bother me because his passion is so genuine. He played for the Phils much longer than Sarge and has legitimate love for this organization. Franzke never tries to do too much and always sets up Andersen for the perfect line without making it obvious. Harry's son Todd Kalas is the 'sideline' reporter for the Tampa Bay Rays. He bounces around the stands for a couple innings and then will do either color or play by play for a couple innings on radio or television. Since he's not the primary guy for the Rays, I don't see why they wouldn't be willing to part with Kalas to an organization that he basically grew up with.

I respect T-Mac, Wheels and Sarge, but the time has come for a change. The Phillies were fortunate to have Hall of Famer Harry Kalas carry the booth with less than spectacular talent around him, but without HK it is no longer acceptable. Make the switch to get these guys off a television and bring in some true broadcasters.

Opening Day

It all starts in our nation's capital, where President Obama climbed to the rubber and lobbed in the ceremonial first pitch. Staying true to form, he wore a Nationals jacket but made sure he represented his hometown boys by donning a Chicago White Sox cap. After the pitch he went over and shook hands with each member of the umpiring crew. The crowd, largely compiled of Phillies fans, cheered and applauded loudly for our Commander-in-chief.

I wasn't overly impressed with the pitching performances. Newly acquired Phillies' ace Roy Halladay looked rusty. Failing to locate pitches early and surrendering hits to a weak Nats line-up. Fortunately for Doc, the Phils offense exploded for 11 runs. Astros' ace Roy Oswalt looked sloppy as well. Inconsistency seemed to be the theme for many pitchers. While Lincecum and Haren looked good, the majority of supposed 'aces' seem to need a little more seasoning before they gain their true form.

Shaun Marcum, who missed the entire 2009 season, took a no-hitter into the eighth inning. A remarkable feat for someone who hasn't faced professional hitters in a truly competitive nature in over a year. Unfortunately, Nelson Cruz took him yard after Vlad Guerrero broke up the no-no. The excitement didn't end there as Rangers catcher Jared Saltalamacchia sent everyone home happy with a walk-off single. Seeing the players pounce on Salty made everything in life seem just a bit easier to deal with. Another reason I love baseball.

The most anticipated Major League debut was that of Braves outfielder Jason Heyward. On the third pitch he saw in his big league career, the Jay Hey Kid took a violent hack and launched a ball deep into the right field stands. It was unlike anything I had ever seen before. I had goosebumps as he rounded the bases. This kid is going to be special.

Albert was Albert, mashing two home runs and going 4-5 at the plate. Garrett Jones of Pittsburgh also hit two, including a splash down shot into the Allegheny. There were two grand slams, one from Placido Polanco and one from Yadier Molina. But the play of the day and maybe of the year was turned in by Mark Buerhle. After deflecting the ball with his shoe, he raced after the ball into foul territory on the first base side and flipped the ball with his glove between his legs to first where Konerko snatched it bare-handed in time to retire Indians catcher Lou Marson.

I know it's only one day, but if it was any indication of how the next 161 games will be we are in for a treat. Play Ball!

Whose Eagles? Not My Eagles...

Really failing to find the words to describe how I'm feeling right now. In case you missed it, the Philadelphia Eagles traded Donovan McNabb to the Washington Redskins. You know, the Redskins that are right down I-95. The same Redskins the Eagles share a division with and play not just once, but twice per year. The very Redskins that just added two-time Super Bowl champion Head Coach Mike Shanahan.

Andy Reid now hands over the team to Kevin Kolb, who's thrown 130 passes in his entire career and hadn't thrown a touchdown until this past season when McNabb was injured. Presumably, Michael Vick stays on as backup, a role he will undoubtedly be thrilled with.

Which begs to ask the question: Whose Eagles are these?

It was just two years ago when Brian Dawkins was crawling out of the tunnel and bringing the crowd to its feet. Fast forward to today when the Eagles roster no longer includes McNabb, Dawkins, Brian Westbrook, and Sheldon Brown. My Eagles are gone. They claim this is not a rebuilding process. One thing is for sure though, they are much younger. The starting running back is coming off his rookie year, as is the number two wide-out Jeremy Maclin. DeSean Jackson is only entering his third year and Kolb, in his fourth year, experience wise is basically a rookie.

While I hate to see McNabb go, I understand where the Eagles were coming from. He had a decade to win there and was given every opportunity to do so. Five conference championship games is nothing to hang your head at, but ultimately he was unable to win the big one. I'm not going to miss wide-open receivers getting balls thrown at their feet. My gripe is dealing him to a very solid and division opponent in Washington. When the trade speculation included the Oakland Raiders and talks of Nnamdi Asomugha coming back in return, I was ecstatic. But a couple of draft picks, nothing of huge significance, leaves something to be desired.

It took intestinal fortitude to make a move like this and I commend Andy Reid for that. If he truly turns the page on the past and re-invents himself as a Head Coach with Kolb then this could be a success. However if the same old conservative Andy trots out there, there's going to be hell to pay.

It's Out of His Hands

When the Phillies traded Cliff Lee to Seattle to make room for Roy Halladay, it raised some eyebrows. The only thing most sportswriters considered was how epic that rotation would have been with Cliff and Doc and Cole. What most people failed to consider is that Cliff Lee is now on his third team in the last 9 months. At this time last year, Lee was preparing to defend his American League Cy Young for the lowly Cleveland Indians. By the end of the same season he found himself pitching the opening game of the World Series for Philadelphia. Now he sits on the disabled list in Seattle, wondering when his Mariner debut will come.

How does a player this talented get moved this often? There was some concern about his attitude in 2007, when the Indians sent him to Triple-A Buffalo and failed to include him on their playoff roster as they went to a seventh game in the ALCS. He only responded by winning the Cy Young the next season. His teammates in Philadelphia never spoke a poor word about him, but with only 3 months of getting to know each other, maybe the relationships forged weren't as deep as perceived. He's already stirred the pot in Seattle, getting suspended for throwing at Diamondbacks catcher Chris Snyder in a meaningless Cactus League match-up.

Phillies GM Ruben Amaro likely breathed a sigh of relief after completing the trade for Halladay. A pitcher with a better track record and hungry for a World Series ring versus a talented, but erratic lefty whose only success has come on the heels of impending free agency. Amaro likely failed to realize that should Seattle fall out of contention, Mariners GM Jack Zduriencik will be forced to move Lee. So now, the Cliff Lee who said he felt 'blindsided' by the trade out of Philadelphia, could return to the National League with a vendetta against the Phils. The Dodgers clearly have the prospects and need for a starting pitcher. The Cubs never shy away from a blockbuster deadline deal and the Rockies are only one player away from being serious pennant contenders. And it gets worse. Maybe Seattle doesn't mind trading him within the AL. I'm sure the Yankees would come calling. The very same Yankees the Phils could potentially play in a World Series rematch. On top of all of that, Lee will be a free agent, free to sign with any team, including the division rival Mets, who will clear some salary with expiring contracts and will be pressured to make a big signing after failing to land John Lackey this past offseason.

This could all be for not, but the possibilities remain. Never count out the Yankees ability to throw a wrench into the playoff picture. The Wild Card may go to the best non-division winner, but the true Wild Card this season will be Cliff Lee's employer.

It's Not All About the Numbers

I love Jamie Moyer. How can you not? He's 47 years old. Let me repeat. He's 47 years old. At its hardest, his fastball tops out around 86 mph. He's facing kids who are young enough to be his son. He's been treated less than fairly by the Phillies over the last year and has handled himself marvelously. Unfortunately, with the season just over a week away from starting, Moyer still finds his role with the team uncertain.

The Phillies have one of the best rotations in baseball. Roy Halladay sits at the top, with Cole Hamels, Joe Blanton and J.A. Happ all lining up behind him. The fifth starter is still a bit of a mystery. Kyle Kendrick has pitched very well this spring, stating his case for the final spot by only allowing three earned runs in close to 20 innings. Moyer's ERA is in the threes and his still has been for more consistent than his injury riddled 2009 campaign.

From a numbers standpoint, you would have to give the nod to Kendrick. But there are other numbers to consider. The age difference is by far the most glaring factor influencing the decision. The odds say Moyer is likely to break down given his age and the amount of pitches his shoulder and elbow have endured over the course of a brilliant yet lengthy career. On the other hand, Moyer is scheduled to make $8 million this season, a hefty price tag for a long man out of the 'pen. Although the Phillies have rarely made decisions about playing time or roles based solely on salary.

And then there's everything you can't measure about the situation. Moyer gets people out. Plain and simple. He throws 'junk' that is so far off from what hitters are used to seeing that it becomes effective. His knowledge and experience is clearly unparalleled by anyone on the team. His fatherly figure and cool demeanor has a calming and peaceful effect on the locker room.

The case for Kendrick is more complex. With injuries to Brad Lidge and J.C. Romero the loser of the fifth starters job will be sent to the bullpen. For Moyer that transition will be no problem, but for a young kid like Kendrick, you don't want to mess with his psyche too much. Confidence for a pitcher is almost as important as talent and ability. Should Moyer go down with an injury, throwing Kendrick into the rotation would be difficult. The same situation arose with Joba Chamberlain and we've all seen how the Yankees handled that disaster. Kendrick has become the shadow of new ace Roy Halladay. There's no one better to learn from and with some tutelage from the Doc it can only help his cause.

It appears as though Manuel is leaning towards Moyer, but it's a dicey situation to say the least. I'm glad I'm not the one making the decision. If you renamed Moyer Player A and Kendrick Player B and compared their resumes side-by-side I think Kendrick would get the job. Unfortunately, we have emotional ties to Moyer that make the decision exponentially harder. If I'm the skipper, I give the ball to Moyer and explain to Kendrick that his time will come. When I watch the 2010 Phils I want to be able to look into the dugout and see Old Man Moyer chatting it up with the boys, not chewing on seeds in the bullpen. It's a great problem to have, but a problem that will impact the season greatly.

Nathan's Famous Surgery

Let me begin by stating, if I ever write about the Minnesota Twins twice in the same week again, it will most likely come from a frigid portion of Hell. The teams two most prominent players have been making headlines of late for very different reasons. With Mauer's deal signed, sealed and delivered, the front office still has one headache to deal with. Closer Joe Nathan's elbow did not respond well to rest and will be undergoing the dreaded Tommy John Surgery.

The surgery is more common these days, with over one hundred players, mostly pitchers, having the procedure done. It's not a career-ender anymore, although the rehab is extensive. Some players have even come back stronger and throwing harder with more velocity and movement after the ligament is repaired. In Nathan's case, the timing of the injury is the most threatening to his career. He's 35 and will miss the entire 2010 season. The contract he signed in 2008 calls for him to make just over $11 million this season and next. Under ideal circumstances, Nathan could return midway through the 2011 season. If the Twins want to contend, they'll likely need an established closer to replace Nathan. Upon his return, he would likely assume eighth inning duties, making him grossly overpaid as a setup man and nearly ensuring they decline the $12 million option the ball club holds for '12.

If he were to hit the open market, he'd be a 37 year old closer with a history of elbow problems. Luckily, Nathan is with a great organization that would likely work with him in attempting to restructure his contract and guarantee he retires a Twin. Nathan's been dominant in his career, amassing nearly 250 saves for the perennial contenders of the AL Central. While the team has largely allowed its star players to go (i.e. Johan Santana and Torii Hunter) Nathan was the exception to the rule. I've always been opposed to long-term deals for pitchers, especially closers, given the volatility in their health. The role of the closer has been massacred over the years. Identifying your best pitcher is simple, but limiting him to entering a ball game during one specific scenario is moronic. Recording three outs without surrendering three runs is no monumental task. Any reliever on the team should be capable of that. A dominant closer like Nathan however, can set the tone for entire pitching staff, stabilizing and maintaining order.

The odds aren't stacked against Nathan's return, but they certainly aren't tipping in his favor either. It will take the determination and hard work that made him an all-star closer, to get him back there.

Spring Fever

The 2010 MLB season will commence with the reigning World Champion Yankees visit the Boston Red Sox on Sunday, April 4th. The time has come for my long awaited 2010 season predictions.

STANDINGS
AL East
1. New York Yankees
2. Boston Red Sox
3. Tampa Bay Rays
4. Baltimore Orioles
5. Toronto Blue Jays

AL Central
1. Chicago White Sox
2. Minnesota Twins
3. Detroit Tigers
4. Cleveland Indians
5. Kansas City Royals

AL West
1. Seattle Mariners
2. Texas Rangers
3. Los Angeles Angels
4. Oakland Athletics

NL East
1. Philadelphia Phillies
2. Atlanta Braves
3. New York Mets
4. Florida Marlins
5. Washington Nationals

NL Central
1. St. Louis Cardinals
2. Chicago Cubs
3. Cincinnati Reds
4. Milwaukee Brewers
5. Houston Astros
6. Pittsburgh Pirates

NL West
1. Colorado Rockies
2. San Francisco Giants
3. Los Angeles Dodgers
4. Arizona Diamondbacks
5. San Diego Padres

AL Wildcard
Texas Rangers

NL Wildcard
San Francisco Giants

World Series
Phillies defeat Yankees in 7 Games

Awards
AL MVP: Joe Mauer
NL MVP: Albert Pujols
AL Cy Young: Cliff Lee
NL Cy Young: Roy Halladay
AL ROY: Justin Smoak
NL ROY: Jason Heyward
AL Comeback: Ben Sheets
NL Comeback: Jeff Francis
AL Manager: Don Wakamatsu
NL Manager: Bobby Cox

AL All-Star Starters
C - Joe Mauer
1B - Mark Teixeira
2B - Dustin Pedroia
SS - Derek Jeter
3B - Evan Longoria
OF - Ichiro
OF - Curtis Granderson
OF - Carl Crawford
SP - CC Sabathia

NL All-Star Starters
C - Brian McCann
1B - Albert Pujols
2B - Chase Utley
SS - Hanley Ramirez
3B - David Wright
OF - Manny Ramirez
OF - Ryan Braun
OF - Jayson Werth
SP - Tim Lincecum

Joseph Patrick Mauer

As Spring Training progressed, it became more apparent that the Minnesota Twins would extend the contract of the best hitter in baseball, Joe Mauer. Today, the announcement came that the two sides have agreed to an 8 year/$184 million contract, ensuring Mauer would remain a Twin through 2018. There's obviously a lot to like about this deal. Mauer would have commanded much more in terms of both years and money had he hit the open market next season. The Yankees, with an aging Jorge Posada, would no doubt be chomping at the bit and make every resource available in attempting to court Mauer. While the contract was still significant in terms of annual salary ($23 million), it was considered a hometown discount. This contract does not significantly handcuff the Twins financially going forward. With only six years of experience, Mauer has already made over $20 million, not to mention the $5 .15 million signing bonus he received in 2001 when Minnesota drafted him. Being born and raised in St. Paul, Minnesota, he clearly made staying in 'Sota a priority. It's refreshing to see a player of his caliber with that kind of attitude. It's Joe being Joe, a stark contrast to the aloof and often times absent-minded Manny Ramirez.

The only fault I could find is that Mauer's already 26, meaning he would be 34 when the contract concludes and making what I assume will be over $30 million given the typical backloaded and deferred contracts most stars sign. Aside from the freak of nature that is Pudge Rodriguez, most catchers have difficulty remaining healthy past 30 years of age. The wear and tear is just too much for average catchers, let alone the best catcher in the league and leader of the team who will feel pressured to play as much as possible to fulfill the mega-contract he signed. Twins manager Ron Gardenhire is a brilliant baseball mind and will need to be forceful enough to sit Joe when the situation calls for it, regardless of the objections he might receive from his backstop and the fans. Luckily Minnesota can DH Mauer occasionally, relieving him of his catching duties while keeping his offensive production in the line-up. Discount aside, $184 million is a lot of money for a traditionally small market team. While they have been more generous of late, a contract of this stature can only make the remaining money to be spent shrink significantly. Will this translate to higher ticket prices? It remains to be seen. The full no-trade clause included in the deal may also make things difficult for the Twins down the road, should they fall from contention in American League Central. While Mauer would likely okay a trade to a contender, limiting the list of potential suitors only weakens Minnesota's bargaining power and could diminish the quality and quantity of players exchanged.

Overall, it's a great day to be a Minnesota fan. The future is bright, despite the unfortunate news for Joe Nathan and his elbow difficulties. This signing makes the Twins a contender for years to come.

Man Among Children

You sir, have one magnificent beard

Dear San Francisco Giants Front Office...

Just pay Timmy whatever he wants. Seriously. Back-to-back Cy Youngs and hair that would make an Olsen Twin jealous. Give him a blank check and a bottle of moose and stop letting this PR nightmare ruin what was a very productive off-season. The Dodgers are declining, the Rockies are still stacked but I have two words. Jim Tracy. He can't do it again. You could win the NL West this year but not if you have a pissed off Lincecum. He'll be a Yankee someday, but while you have him, pay him. That is all.

Life is Just a Fantasy

The second the Super Bowl ends, I immediately check out on football and get into baseball mode. Since pitchers and catchers haven't reported yet, the only thing I can legitimately give thought to is my fantasy baseball team. I've been playing fantasy baseball for 12 years. May not sound that long, but considering I'm only 22 years old, I've spent more of my life playing fantasy baseball than not.

While I've typically played in 10-12 man head-to-head snake draft leagues, last year I dove head first into my first auction-style keeper league. This league has it all. There's a $55 salary cap and other than that there are very few limits. In the beginning of March you can protect up to 12 players for the Rule V draft. Once that is completed, you can protect 10 players and the rest are gone from your roster. All remaining players are put up for auction with your $55 cap less the salaries of your protected players. When you draft a players he's automatically signed to a 3-year deal. Any expiring contracts can be renewed for one year by adding a dollar to their salary. Sounds complicated but its incredibly fun and addicting.

So here's my dilemma:

I know the 12 guys I'm protecting for the Rule V draft, but narrowing it down to 10 is proving extremely difficult. I can only keep one of the following five: Carlos Pena, Roy Oswalt, John Lackey, Joba Chamberlain or Rick Porcello.

Pena hit 39 dingers and missed most of September so there's upside there, however he only hit .220 and I got crushed in batting average last season.

Oswalt struggled last season but I chalk that up to not a lot of motivation being on a horrible Astros club. If he thinks he's auditioning for a trade, he may pitch out of his mind. Would hate to let go of him if he's the Oswalt of old.

Lackey is a head-case. He's missed time each of the last three seasons and moving to Boston will only make him more crazy. I love his stuff but don't know if I can depend on him for an entire season.

Joba is always a question mark. We've been hearing about his potential for years. Is this finally his breakout season? He's worthless fantasy-wise in the bullpen yet not as effective as a starter. There's the rub.

And then there's Porcello. The kid had an outstanding rookie season last year. He's in a very good park for a pitcher and may have matured in the offseason. On the flip side, maybe the American League figures him out or he breaks down after having his workload increased tremendously. Tom Verducci has long been a proponent of staying away from pitchers who increase their innings by more than 30 in one season.

Smart money is to keep Oswalt, but I'm seriously leaning toward Porcello. His contract is cheap and he has tremendous upside. Main problem is if he does pan out I'd lose him at the end of this year and probably only had him on the cusp of his true breakout year. So I turn to you. Any thoughts or facts I should know about? Fill me in.

It's the Future

I don't know about you but when I used to think about the year 2010, I imagined flying cars, space exploration of mars and of course, the ability to watch baseball on my mobile phone. While technology works on the first two, watching baseball has never been easier or more convenient. The unveiling of the new Apple iPad today was met with much fan fare. While the overall specs of the device reveal it to be merely an over sized iPhone, it falls short in comparison to the netbooks that have dominated sales in the recent months.

One application that will benefit greatly from the iPad is Major League Baseball's MLB.TV service. I've been subscribing to MLB.TV for three years now. Living in the Philadelphia market and being a Cleveland Indians fan leaves me without the ability to catch my Tribe more than a few times per season. With MLB.TV, I can watch every game live or on demand. I can choose between the home or away team broadcast, giving me the ability to choose between Cleveland's dynamic duo of broadcasters or catch the legendary voices of the opposing team, say the legendary Vin Scully when they happen to play the Dodgers. Being a college student leaves me away from my television and computer frequently, yet my desire to be watching live baseball never fails.

For a meager $100, I can watch all 162 games of my beloved Indians as well as several of their Spring Training match-ups. The service does not require you to choose one team exclusively either, so say there's the odd chance that a Yankees/Red Sox game isn't on a national broadcast, I just click on the NY and viola, baseball. While the iPhone gives you the convenience of baseball anytime, the size of the picture is quite limiting. Enter iPad. The 10'' screen is now more than adequate for watching a game. Granted the increased size poses transportation limits, it's nothing a small briefcase or shoulder bag won't eliminate. I can only imagine how the commute to work on buses and trains everywhere will become tremendously less excruciating.

As a baseball purist, I never want to be more than a click away from live game action. Today might not be remembered as monumental a day in baseball history as the day Lou Gehrig delivered his famous speech or the day Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier or the day Kerry Wood struck out 20 batters. But for baseball fans everywhere today has forever changed the way we'll remember those moments.

Thank You Captain Obvious

Phillies' skipper Charlie Manuel told reporters he would have loved to have Roy Halladay and Cliff Lee in his rotation.

All I can say is...duh!

Who wouldn't want both Doc and Cliff pitching on back to back days. The difficult part to swallow is that according to GM Ruben Amaro, it wasn't a payroll issue. Cliff Lee is slotted to earn $9 million during the 2010 season while righty Joe Blanton will earn $7 million. For a mere $2 million, Amaro could have dealt Blanton and headed to 2010 the clear cut favorite to win a third consecutive pennant. What Amaro did was take a stand that he had to know would be fairly unpopular among fans. The prospects exiting Philadelphia to get Lee and Halladay left the farm system woefully depleted. While Blanton would have received something in return, it would not be nearly the quality or quantity that the Phillies got from Seattle for Lee.

Basically Amaro opted to be competitive for seasons to come instead of stacking the deck for another run in 2010 and then having a large void once completed. There is definite doubt as to whether the Phils would have the payroll to sign Lee at the end of 2010. While their rotation this season would look stellar, its 2011 rotation would be lacking and not much help would be on the way from Triple-A.

Another factor to consider is the free agency of breakout right fielder Jayson Werth. Werth is going to want to get paid and given his production during his stay in Philly, I'd say it's reasonable. Cliff Lee did wonderful things over the last two seasons, but his career is still young and riddled with inconsistency. In sacrificing Lee for Halladay, Amaro shrewdly changed the course of the organization for the next few seasons and ensured a competitive product will take the field day in and day out.

Not many general managers would have the gusto to make a move like this, especially less than one full year into their tenure. Amaro has proved he is the right man for the job and will not let media or fan pressure dictate his moves. I can't wait for the day Roy Halladay accepts his Cy Young and World Series MVP Awards, purely to see the satisfaction on Ruben's face.

It's a New Year!

Happy 2010 everyone!

I never liked living in the past, so instead of reviewing 2009, let's consider what we can look forward to in 2010.

Tiger Woods return to the golf course

At some point, he's going to need to get back on the links. The million dollar question is how will his impending divorce affect his game play. I would have to think it will be burdensome initially as the gallery heckles America's favorite golfer. Once he gets in front of a microphone and actually addresses the incidents and fields questions from legitimate reporters, I think things will get easier for him. The question I'd most like answered has nothing to do with his infidelity, but instead the report that linked him to a Canadian doctor detained for unlawfully distributing performance enhancing supplements. For someone who allegedly cheated without remorse off the course, is it too much of a stretch to think he cheated on the course as well? Undoubtedly he will reclaim his title as greatest golfer on the planet, but it will truly take a miracle for him to regain all his endorsements and admiration that he once had.

The NFL Play-offs

For so much of this season the question was whether or not the Colts and/or Saints could complete the perfect season. Well that question has been emphatically answered on both sides, yet each team remains in the hunt for the Super Bowl. With two differing strategies on use of starting players in 'meaningless' games, we may finally see which strategy is more effective. Commissioner Roger Goodell has said he will 'look into' the Colts strategy of resting starters. Personally, I think its ridiculous that a rule could be imposed requiring teams to play their primary players when play-offs births have been clinched. Would you rather have an awesome week 16 schedule or a Super Bowl that features fully healthy players? I think that one is simple to answer. The only change we may see in 2010 is the overtime format. If an important playoff game is decided on the first possession of overtime with the losing team never touching the ball, I think the competition committee will take a closer look at what is in the best interest of the sport.

Can the Yankees repeat?

It remains to be seen whether they will re-sign Johnny Damon, but regardless, the Yankees still looked primed to repeat as AL Champions. And given the moves the Philadelphia Phillies have made in acquiring former Cy Young winner Roy Halladay, they look to be in great position to reach their third consecutive World Series. Although it appears both teams are finished making major moves this offseason, the Yankees still need a left fielder and Matt Holliday remains unsigned. Unlikely? Sure, but if there's one thing I've learned from the Yanks is never count them out of any major free agent. There was virtually no connection last year to the Yankees and Mark Teixiera, yet we all now how that one ended. The Phillies could still move some players as well, given the uncertainty of the outcomes of salary arbitration. Joe Blanton and Shane Victorino will be getting rather significant raises and given the Phillies payroll constraints, it is not out of the realm of possibility that one of them is calling a new city home next year.

Where will LeBron end up?

Although the 2009-10 NBA season is far from over, many have already begun to look to the offseason when King James becomes an unrestricted free agent. Speculation has been that he and USA basketball teammate Dwyane Wade will look to join forces, forming one of the most explosive and dynamic duos in the history of the sport. Hip Hop mogul Jay-Z will undoubtedly be a large player in attempting to attract James and Wade to Brooklyn where the Nets look to be relocated. Cleveland's only chance at keeping LBJ may be a NBA title this season. Wake up Shaq, the clock is ticking.

Can Jimmy Johnson win his 5th consecutive NASCAR Sprint Cup Title?

I'm not going to pretend I know much about NASCAR, but what this man has done over the last four years is nothing short of remarkable. Given the popularity and advancement of the sport, this has to go down as one of the most impressive records in the history of sports. A fifth consecutive title will only further establish his place in history.

So many questions yet all we can do is wait. It's 365 days anyway you slice it. Might as well enjoy it.