Well as the playoffs start I figured I would do a quick rundown of all 4 of the Division Series and give you my predictions. And with the regular season finished after that epic tiebreaker to decide the AL Central lastnight, I will run through my thoughts on who should win each of the major Awards.
NATIONAL LEAGUE DIVISION SERIES
St. Louis Cardinals vs Los Angeles Dodgers
As you can imagine as I am a Cardinals fan, I will start with the Birds-Dodgers Series. As both teams stumbled into the playoffs many fans in both cities have to be worried about their team in one aspect or another. With the Redbirds, I think whats on everyone's mind is whether or not we will break out of our nearly 2 week funk in the batter's box? Many people are pointing to how the Birds finished in 2006 and yet they got hot at the right time and went on the go 11-5 on their way to their 10 World Series Championship. As much as I hope that is the case I feel that a change may be in order to jump start the offense. I respect Tony LaRussa as an excelent tactition and chances are he will do what he needs to to get this team ready for the playoffs. I feel like this team knows what it takes to seperate the regular season and the postseason and get the job done, with Ace Chris Carpenter there to set the tone. My next statement may seem like blastphomy at first, but I think it could be the key to the offense breaking out. I think LaRussa should flip-flop Pujols and Holliday for the series. Tony has always liked to bat Pujols 3rd to get him more at-bats over a 162 game season and that is a valid point, but with a 5 game season left why not see what happens? Matt Holliday is not Albert Pujols but he is no slouch either. Holliday has a very good on-base percentage and with him getting on base in front of Pujols you would ensure that the Dodgers would have to pitch to Pujols even more so than with Holliday batting behind him. This is not a permanent switch by any means but I feel it would be a fresh change that might be just what this team needs to explode and go on a run back to the World Series. Many people around town have been comparing this year's Cards to the 2004 powerhouse NL Champs. They are some similarities, but the differences are what is going to be the difference in this series. The 2004 club was no doubt better offensively, but this 2009 version takes the cake when it comes to pitching. With Carpenter and Wainwright up top; Hawksworth, McClellan, and Miller in the middle, and Franklin to finish the game, the Cardinals definitely have the advantage in this series. The Dodgers have a very good pitching staff, and its not going to be easy for either team to get going offensively, I just feel that from top to bottom the Cardinals have the better pitching staff. The X-factor in this series will be Albert Pujols, no matter where he bats. The Redbirds slugger ended the season with a bit of a power outage yet was still seeing the ball very well. I look for Albert to break out with a few key homeruns in the series that will ultimately be the difference.
PREDICTION: Cardinals win series 3-1
Game 1: CARDS 3 DODGERS 1
Game 2: CARDS 6 DODGERS 3
Game 3: DODGERS 4 CARDS 2
Game 4: DODGERS 1 CARDS 7
As I am typing this blog this next series is in the 4th inning:
Colorado Rockies vs Philadelphia Phillies
The Rockies head into the playoffs as the only NL team that isn't struggling, but thats not to say they will have a repeat of the 2007 NLDS. This series is going to be one of the most competitive out of the 4 first round match-ups. The Rocks look to be the better team defensively, and even though the Phillies have the bigger names in their pitching staff, I look at the pitching match-ups to be about equal. In the end, I think this series will come down to the respective offenses, and if that is the case I have to give the edge to the Rockies. When you can trot out guys like Helton, Tulowitzki, Hawpe, Atkins, Barmes, and Giambi you can match-up with any team any game anytime. The Phillies have some great hitters in their own right with Rollins, Utley, Howard, Ibanez, and Werth, I just think in the end the Rockies have a the better overall line-up. I think that the Phillies strike out too much with Howard leading the way. The Rockies are a better team when it comes to putting the ball in play and putting pressure on the defense. In the playoffs, when the pitching is at it's higest level putting the ball in play is key. If the Rockies can keep the Phillies sluggers in the ballpark they will win this series. The X-factor in this series will be the Rockies bullpen. I look for their relief corps to rise to the occasion when called upon by Manager of the Year Canidate Jim Tracy. If the Rockies bullpen does it's job finishing games they will move on to the NLCS.
PREDICTION: Rockies win series 3-2
Game 1: ROCKIES 3 PHILLIES 6
Game 2: ROCKIES 4 PHILLIES 1
Game 3: PHILLIES 2 ROCKIES 6
Game 4: PHILLIES 7 ROCKIES 1
Game 5: ROCKIES 5 PHILLIES 4
AMERICAN LEAGUE DIVISION SERIES
Minnesota Twins vs New York Yankees
I don't know as much about the AL teams as I do the NL, but I do know that ESPN seems to favoring the Yankees in this one.(HaHa) Don't get me wrong the Yankees have an excellent team top to bottom but I think this series is being overlooked by many as a warm-up for the Yanks on their way to the ALCS to face their nemesis the Red Sox. (Man wouldn't FOX and ESPN just love that!!!! BLAH!!!) I am here to tell you this isn't going to be a cake-walk for the Bronx Bombers. The Twins truly have nothing to lose, and when teams have nothing to lose they can be dangerous, especially a team that isn't expecting a fight. After lastnight's 12 inning marathon game in which the Twins laid it all on the line just to get into the playoffs, it was no doubt that the Yankees chose to play today and give the Twins a short turn around before Game 1 and I think that choice will back fire for them at least for tonight. Teams don't wear down in the playoffs, not with a chance for a ring on the line. The last thing I would do if I was the Yankees would be to put the Twins back on the field so quickly after that emotional win lastnight to TAKE the division from the Detroit Tigers. A team on a roll will continue to roll until something stops them. I personally would have given the Twins another day to come back to earth, but what do I know, CC could do that all by himself tonight. In the end I think that while the Twins will put up a fight, the Yankees are a much better team and will move on to the ALCS no matter how bad I don't want them to. The X-factor for this series will be the Yankees themselves. If they show up and play like they can they will take this series with relative ease.
PREDICTION: Yankees win series 3-1
Game 1: TWINS 4 YANKEES 2
Game 2: TWINS 1 YANKEES 6
Game 3: YANKEES 5 TWINS 2
Game 4: YANKEES 3 TWINS 2
Boston Red Sox vs Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
This series is going to come down to pitching plain and simple. Forget the Hex the Sox have over the Angels in the postseason, forget the offenses, the defence, and the managers. These two teams are so evenly matched in all aspects of the game, I will do you one better; this series is going to come down to Josh Beckett and whether he can throw strikes and be dominant or not?
Yeah I know, one starting pitcher shouldn't have that big of an impact on the entire series, but in this one Beckett just might the key. With Beckett going in game two, if he is as dominant as he has been in year's past it could lead the Sox back to the ALCS for the 2nd time in 3 years. If the Red Sox take Game 1 with Lester pitching and then come back with a dominant Beckett in game 2 it could be just enough to break the Angels spirits again and send the Sox on to face the Yanks in the ALCS. If the Angels win Game 1 behind John Lackey and then Beckett comes out and can't even the series for the Sox the opposite could be true and the Angels would head to the ALCS for the first time since 2002. If Beckett does even the series and the Red Sox steal home-field from the Angels and go back to Fenway tied 1-1, the Boston fans should will them to the next round. No matter the Game 1 outcome, the key to the entire series is whether or not Josh Beckett will be Josh Beckett or Brett Tomko? The X-factor in this series is obviously Beckett, and I look for him to struggle to throw strikes and give up about 5 runs in 4 plus innings and the Angels will take advantage of thiss and will go on to win the series.
PREDICTION: Angels win series 3-1
Game 1: RED SOX 2 ANGELS 4
Game 2: RED SOX 4 ANGELS 7
Game 3: ANGELS 3 RED SOX 8
Game 4: ANGELS 5 RED SOX 2
NATIONAL LEAGUE AWARDS
NL Cy Young Award
My vote is Adam Wainwright. It is like splitting hairs trying to decide between Carpenter and Wainwright but I'm going with Adam and his 19 wins. He could easily have 22 wins and he is the top 3 in all the main catagories.
Apologies to Carpenter, Lincecum, Haren, and Jimenez
NL MVP Award
Albert Pujols. Enough said.
Maybe next time Fielder and Howard
NL Manager of the Year Award
Jim Tracy. Theres something to be said about what Tracy did for a team that was left for dead when he took over. Without the big additions that helped the Cards, Phillies, and Dodgers; Tracy has lead the Rockies to the playoffs with a real shot at a 2nd World Series appearence in 3 years.
Thanks for the efforts to LaRussa, Manuel, and Cox
AMERICAN LEAGUE AWARDS
AL Cy Young Award
Felix Hernandez. King Felix has been the best overall pitcher for the last 2/3 of the season.
Sorry to Sabathia, Greinke, and Mariano Rivera
AL MVP Award
Joe Mauer. He is the best player in a position that does't lend well to great players.
Try Again Jeter and Texiera
AL Manager of the Year Award
Mike Scioscia. The Angels are the class of the AL West every year and this year is no different. Scioscia is one of the main reasons the Angels are in position to win the AL and get back to the World Series.
Thanks but no Thanks to Gardenhire, Girardi, and Francona
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Tuesday September 22nd, 2009
With the division races lacking true drama and my team in complete control of their division, I am going to change things up a bit and just express my various opinions on some topics around the baseball world. Hope you like it.
As I mentioned the Cardinals are to the point where its not if they will clinch and win the Central Division for the first time since 2006, it's which day this week it will happen? (I'm saying Thursday). By taking two of three from the Cubs over the weekend the Redbirds erased any hope that Cubs fans had no matter how diehard they may have been. I must mention however, that I was in the bleachers for the Sunday Night game on ESPN, one in which the Cubs salvaged one game with an 11 inning thriller that had everything; and the Cubs fans that were sitting a couple rows in front of me reinforced everything we Cards fans hate about the Cubs. These fans were drunk, obnoxiously loud, and to top it all off they were dillusional about their chances to win the division. Its one thing to go to another city to support your team, and I am in no way saying you should ever give up on your team, but the way Cubs fans do so is down right embarrassing. The group was the epitome of everything "real" baseball fans hate. I don't want this to be a sweeping indictment to all Cubs fans, but from what I saw I sunday there doesn't seem to be any hope for the Northsiders.
The Redbirds handily beat the Astros lastnight and look to be coming out of their offensive slump that plauged their last homestand; the put up great numbers against Wandy Rodriguez who had been previously unhittable. Mark DeRosa hit two homeruns and added a double to lead the way offensively and Kyle Lohse wasn't great put definitely took a step in the right direction in reclaiming his early season form. Lohse has been told he has two more starts to win back his rotation spot from John Smoltz; a move that I believe would be beneficial to the Cardinals in the playoffs. I think Smoltz could handle being our number 4 starter in the playoffs, but I believe he would be a bigger help to the team as a late-inning option out of the bullpen that would shore up the Cards most glaring weakness, Right-handed relief pitching.
MVP No. 3 for Pujols?
I truly and unbiasedly feel that Albert Pujols has again earned himself another MVP award, and any voter that votes against that has a hidden agenda or is just plain stupid and should have their vote revoked. Albert's stats this season are again impressive to say the least, and he's is probably a rough month batting average wise away from a triple crown. You can't say enough about Pujols off the field either and his presence in the locker room is unparalelled. Add all of these things in with the fact that his closest competition is either on a bad team (i.e. Prince Fielder), or has stuck out almost 200 times (i.e. Ryan Howard) and Albert has to be a lock for the N.L. MVP right?
N.L. Manager of the Year?
My cousin tells me yesterday that managers like Tony LaRussa don't win the award, "managers that taking crappy teams to the playoffs" win the award. Now right off the bat I didn't agree with him, one because he is a bit biased being a Rockies/Jim Tracy fan and two because I am a bit biased and feel LaRussa is the best canidate for the award. After further consideration, I realize that this isn't LaRussa'a award to lose, it is definitely Tracy's. A case can be made for all the division leaders and their managers; Charlie Manuel in Philly, Joe Torre in L.A., and of course LaRussa here in the Lou, but something must be said about the job that Jim Tracy has done. I'm not sure about the Rockies exact record when Clint Hurdle was fired but I am very sure that they were dead in the water when Tracy took over. I understand that Tracy didn't inherit a bad baseball team when he took over, in fact many would say their team this season is better than the one that went to the World Series 2 years ago. The one thing everyone needs to understand is that every team in the league is talented, some more than others obviously, but it is the manager's sole job to take that talent and maximize it to the fullest potential. Jim Tracy has taken the team he was given and maximized their talent into a full blown playoff contender and one of the hottest, most feared teams in the league. At the moment, the Rockies have a 4 game lead in the wildcard and should be able to win that race. If the Rockies get to the playoffs, Jim Tracy is my vote for Manager of the Year hands down. Thanks Cousin.
Baseball Picks for Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Yankees over Angels
Indians over Tigers
Dodgers over Nationals
Reds over Pirates
Orioles over Blue Jays
Mariners over Rays
Phillies over Marlins
Mets over Braves
Cubs over Brewers
Cardinals over Astros
Red Sox over Royals
Twins over White Sox
Padres over Rockies (sorry Jay)
Rangers over A's
Giants over D'Backs
As I mentioned the Cardinals are to the point where its not if they will clinch and win the Central Division for the first time since 2006, it's which day this week it will happen? (I'm saying Thursday). By taking two of three from the Cubs over the weekend the Redbirds erased any hope that Cubs fans had no matter how diehard they may have been. I must mention however, that I was in the bleachers for the Sunday Night game on ESPN, one in which the Cubs salvaged one game with an 11 inning thriller that had everything; and the Cubs fans that were sitting a couple rows in front of me reinforced everything we Cards fans hate about the Cubs. These fans were drunk, obnoxiously loud, and to top it all off they were dillusional about their chances to win the division. Its one thing to go to another city to support your team, and I am in no way saying you should ever give up on your team, but the way Cubs fans do so is down right embarrassing. The group was the epitome of everything "real" baseball fans hate. I don't want this to be a sweeping indictment to all Cubs fans, but from what I saw I sunday there doesn't seem to be any hope for the Northsiders.
The Redbirds handily beat the Astros lastnight and look to be coming out of their offensive slump that plauged their last homestand; the put up great numbers against Wandy Rodriguez who had been previously unhittable. Mark DeRosa hit two homeruns and added a double to lead the way offensively and Kyle Lohse wasn't great put definitely took a step in the right direction in reclaiming his early season form. Lohse has been told he has two more starts to win back his rotation spot from John Smoltz; a move that I believe would be beneficial to the Cardinals in the playoffs. I think Smoltz could handle being our number 4 starter in the playoffs, but I believe he would be a bigger help to the team as a late-inning option out of the bullpen that would shore up the Cards most glaring weakness, Right-handed relief pitching.
MVP No. 3 for Pujols?
I truly and unbiasedly feel that Albert Pujols has again earned himself another MVP award, and any voter that votes against that has a hidden agenda or is just plain stupid and should have their vote revoked. Albert's stats this season are again impressive to say the least, and he's is probably a rough month batting average wise away from a triple crown. You can't say enough about Pujols off the field either and his presence in the locker room is unparalelled. Add all of these things in with the fact that his closest competition is either on a bad team (i.e. Prince Fielder), or has stuck out almost 200 times (i.e. Ryan Howard) and Albert has to be a lock for the N.L. MVP right?
N.L. Manager of the Year?
My cousin tells me yesterday that managers like Tony LaRussa don't win the award, "managers that taking crappy teams to the playoffs" win the award. Now right off the bat I didn't agree with him, one because he is a bit biased being a Rockies/Jim Tracy fan and two because I am a bit biased and feel LaRussa is the best canidate for the award. After further consideration, I realize that this isn't LaRussa'a award to lose, it is definitely Tracy's. A case can be made for all the division leaders and their managers; Charlie Manuel in Philly, Joe Torre in L.A., and of course LaRussa here in the Lou, but something must be said about the job that Jim Tracy has done. I'm not sure about the Rockies exact record when Clint Hurdle was fired but I am very sure that they were dead in the water when Tracy took over. I understand that Tracy didn't inherit a bad baseball team when he took over, in fact many would say their team this season is better than the one that went to the World Series 2 years ago. The one thing everyone needs to understand is that every team in the league is talented, some more than others obviously, but it is the manager's sole job to take that talent and maximize it to the fullest potential. Jim Tracy has taken the team he was given and maximized their talent into a full blown playoff contender and one of the hottest, most feared teams in the league. At the moment, the Rockies have a 4 game lead in the wildcard and should be able to win that race. If the Rockies get to the playoffs, Jim Tracy is my vote for Manager of the Year hands down. Thanks Cousin.
Baseball Picks for Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Yankees over Angels
Indians over Tigers
Dodgers over Nationals
Reds over Pirates
Orioles over Blue Jays
Mariners over Rays
Phillies over Marlins
Mets over Braves
Cubs over Brewers
Cardinals over Astros
Red Sox over Royals
Twins over White Sox
Padres over Rockies (sorry Jay)
Rangers over A's
Giants over D'Backs
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Wednesday September 9th, 2009
Cardinals Update:
Well its been awhile since my last post so were going to begin with the Cardinals win on Labor Day.
Tony LaRussa described the performance as "heroic", and with the Birds coming of a tough series finale loss in the 9th inning to the lowly Pirates it truly was an outstanding peformance from the Cardinal ace Chris Carpenter. His line reads 9IP 0ER 1 H 2BB 10K's, but with the bullpen a little short and closer Ryan Franklin unavailable Carp gave the Cardinals exactly what you need from your NO. 1. Carpenter only needed 99 pitches to dispatch of the recently annoying Brew Crew leading the Redbirds to their 15th straight series opener. In those previous series the Cards are an astounding 14-1 with their last series lost coming back in early July against the NL East leading Phillies. Carpenter was truly dominant allowing only a double to Jody Gerut in the 5th inning and only allowing two balls to leave the infield.
Albert Pujols provided all the offense Carpenter would need with a two RBI double and later scoring on a single by the red-hot Matt Holliday. Carpenter improved his already impressive Cy Young resume and continues to lead the National League with a 2.16 ERA.
On Tuesday the Cardinals looked to lock up another series victory against the Brewers, but that prospect looked bleek early on. With John Smoltz on the mound after learning he would be given a few more chances to start, began the day with a little hicup. After a double by Ryan Braun, Smoltz left a pitch out over the plate to the NL RBI leader Prince Fielder and he made him pay with a two run homerun in the opening frame. It looked to be much of the same starting off the second when the Brewers began the inning with three straight singles that lead to another run and Cards deficit of 3-0. Smoltz really locked in after that retiring 12 out of the next 13 batters he faced, including the last eight he faced keeping the score where it was anf giving the Cards a chance to nibble away at the lead. The story of the day was missed opportunities with the Birds going 0 for 12 with runners in scoring position and stranding 11 baserunners including the bases loaded with one out in the eighth. After a solo homerun by Albert Pujols in the 5th cut the lead to 3-2 it looked as if the Cards would at least tie the score with the bases juiced and only one out and Colby Rasmus in the batters box. The Brewers relievers proceeded to get a strikeout of Rasmus and then getting Julio Lugo to groundout to third and the idea of a Cardinals win looked like a slim possibility with the all-time saves leader Trevor Hoffman coming in to save the game. In the ninth, Hoffman got out out quickly and with Pujols up to bat did what most pitchers do with the game on the line; walk him. The Cardinals new slugging outfielder Matt Holliday the proceeded to make the Brewers pay when he took a 2-1 pitch from Hoffman deep to centerfield for the go ahead 2 run homerun and another series victory for the Cards. With Ryan Franklin still unavailable Kyle McClellan came in to get the save for winning pitcher Blake Hawksworth, who is 3-0 after pitching a perfect 8th.
Today's game was much of the same from starter Adam Wainwright on his way to his league leading 18th win. Wainwright pitched 7 innings 5 hits 0 ER 1 BB and 6 K's to lead the Cardinals to a sweep of the Brewers and reduced their magic number to 12. The story of the day, as it is most days, was slugger Albert Pujols. El Hombre had two homeruns and three RBI's to increase his league leading homerun total to an amazing 47 with just under three weeks to play. Pujols looks to be a lock to have his first 50 homerun season in his career, a stat that seems as surprising as his nine year run at the record books. If Pujols continues his season at this pace he will most definitely win his 3rd MVP award in five years. The win gave the Cardinals a record of 84-57 and with a Dodgers loss this evening the Cards would take over the best record in the league for the first time all season. The only blemish on the day was the early exit for Holliday after a rather weird stumble on a ground out. The reports on him were that it was a precautionary move and that he had minor bruising of his left knee. Holliday did his part though with a sacrifice fly in the first inning to give the Birds a lead the would not reliquish. With closer Ryan Franklin again unavailable, the Cards ensured they would need to use him in beating a former teammate Jeff Suppan for the second time this season. Colby Rasmus added an RBI triple after battling a heel injury all week.
The Redbirds are 5-1 in their last six games and the starting pitching continues to be the story of this incredible run. Carpenter, Wainwright, and Joel Pinero are an amazing 29-3 since the start of July, with the team record a league best 34-10, good for the biggest division lead out of all six divisions at 11 and a half games over the surging Cubs. Wainwright and Carpenter are leading the way in the Cy Young race, though neither will acknowledge the fact, with Wainwright saying, "How can I win that when I'm not even the best pitcher on my own team", and Carp saying "That's the least of my concerns right now". The Giants Tim Lincecum is right there with the Cards Duo, and might have an advantage the other two wont have. With the Giants in a tough pennant race in both the National League West and the Wildcard, Lincecum will have the benefit of pitching in more meaningful games down the stretch, whereas the Cards all but have their division wrapped up at this point rendering some of their games less meaningful to say the least. That probably wont change the way the competitive pair pitch, with each one tyring to one-up the other start after start, but they could run into another problem if they both continue on this pace. Much the way Pujols, Edmonds, and Rolen did in 2004, the Cy Young contenders could run into a situation where they are splitting votes from Baseball Writer's who vote on the award. Either way its been fun to watch, keep it up Waino and Carp.
Baseball Picks for Wednesday September 9th, 2009
Rangers over Indians
Cubs over Pirates
Cardinals over Brewers
Giants over Padres
Rays over Yankees
Phillies over Nationals
BlueJays over Twins
Red Sox over Orioles
Marlins over Mets
Braves over Astros
Tigers over Royals
A's over White Sox
Rockies over Reds
Angels over Mariners
D-Backs over Dodgers, (Come on Haren!!!)
Well its been awhile since my last post so were going to begin with the Cardinals win on Labor Day.
Tony LaRussa described the performance as "heroic", and with the Birds coming of a tough series finale loss in the 9th inning to the lowly Pirates it truly was an outstanding peformance from the Cardinal ace Chris Carpenter. His line reads 9IP 0ER 1 H 2BB 10K's, but with the bullpen a little short and closer Ryan Franklin unavailable Carp gave the Cardinals exactly what you need from your NO. 1. Carpenter only needed 99 pitches to dispatch of the recently annoying Brew Crew leading the Redbirds to their 15th straight series opener. In those previous series the Cards are an astounding 14-1 with their last series lost coming back in early July against the NL East leading Phillies. Carpenter was truly dominant allowing only a double to Jody Gerut in the 5th inning and only allowing two balls to leave the infield.
Albert Pujols provided all the offense Carpenter would need with a two RBI double and later scoring on a single by the red-hot Matt Holliday. Carpenter improved his already impressive Cy Young resume and continues to lead the National League with a 2.16 ERA.
On Tuesday the Cardinals looked to lock up another series victory against the Brewers, but that prospect looked bleek early on. With John Smoltz on the mound after learning he would be given a few more chances to start, began the day with a little hicup. After a double by Ryan Braun, Smoltz left a pitch out over the plate to the NL RBI leader Prince Fielder and he made him pay with a two run homerun in the opening frame. It looked to be much of the same starting off the second when the Brewers began the inning with three straight singles that lead to another run and Cards deficit of 3-0. Smoltz really locked in after that retiring 12 out of the next 13 batters he faced, including the last eight he faced keeping the score where it was anf giving the Cards a chance to nibble away at the lead. The story of the day was missed opportunities with the Birds going 0 for 12 with runners in scoring position and stranding 11 baserunners including the bases loaded with one out in the eighth. After a solo homerun by Albert Pujols in the 5th cut the lead to 3-2 it looked as if the Cards would at least tie the score with the bases juiced and only one out and Colby Rasmus in the batters box. The Brewers relievers proceeded to get a strikeout of Rasmus and then getting Julio Lugo to groundout to third and the idea of a Cardinals win looked like a slim possibility with the all-time saves leader Trevor Hoffman coming in to save the game. In the ninth, Hoffman got out out quickly and with Pujols up to bat did what most pitchers do with the game on the line; walk him. The Cardinals new slugging outfielder Matt Holliday the proceeded to make the Brewers pay when he took a 2-1 pitch from Hoffman deep to centerfield for the go ahead 2 run homerun and another series victory for the Cards. With Ryan Franklin still unavailable Kyle McClellan came in to get the save for winning pitcher Blake Hawksworth, who is 3-0 after pitching a perfect 8th.
Today's game was much of the same from starter Adam Wainwright on his way to his league leading 18th win. Wainwright pitched 7 innings 5 hits 0 ER 1 BB and 6 K's to lead the Cardinals to a sweep of the Brewers and reduced their magic number to 12. The story of the day, as it is most days, was slugger Albert Pujols. El Hombre had two homeruns and three RBI's to increase his league leading homerun total to an amazing 47 with just under three weeks to play. Pujols looks to be a lock to have his first 50 homerun season in his career, a stat that seems as surprising as his nine year run at the record books. If Pujols continues his season at this pace he will most definitely win his 3rd MVP award in five years. The win gave the Cardinals a record of 84-57 and with a Dodgers loss this evening the Cards would take over the best record in the league for the first time all season. The only blemish on the day was the early exit for Holliday after a rather weird stumble on a ground out. The reports on him were that it was a precautionary move and that he had minor bruising of his left knee. Holliday did his part though with a sacrifice fly in the first inning to give the Birds a lead the would not reliquish. With closer Ryan Franklin again unavailable, the Cards ensured they would need to use him in beating a former teammate Jeff Suppan for the second time this season. Colby Rasmus added an RBI triple after battling a heel injury all week.
The Redbirds are 5-1 in their last six games and the starting pitching continues to be the story of this incredible run. Carpenter, Wainwright, and Joel Pinero are an amazing 29-3 since the start of July, with the team record a league best 34-10, good for the biggest division lead out of all six divisions at 11 and a half games over the surging Cubs. Wainwright and Carpenter are leading the way in the Cy Young race, though neither will acknowledge the fact, with Wainwright saying, "How can I win that when I'm not even the best pitcher on my own team", and Carp saying "That's the least of my concerns right now". The Giants Tim Lincecum is right there with the Cards Duo, and might have an advantage the other two wont have. With the Giants in a tough pennant race in both the National League West and the Wildcard, Lincecum will have the benefit of pitching in more meaningful games down the stretch, whereas the Cards all but have their division wrapped up at this point rendering some of their games less meaningful to say the least. That probably wont change the way the competitive pair pitch, with each one tyring to one-up the other start after start, but they could run into another problem if they both continue on this pace. Much the way Pujols, Edmonds, and Rolen did in 2004, the Cy Young contenders could run into a situation where they are splitting votes from Baseball Writer's who vote on the award. Either way its been fun to watch, keep it up Waino and Carp.
Baseball Picks for Wednesday September 9th, 2009
Rangers over Indians
Cubs over Pirates
Cardinals over Brewers
Giants over Padres
Rays over Yankees
Phillies over Nationals
BlueJays over Twins
Red Sox over Orioles
Marlins over Mets
Braves over Astros
Tigers over Royals
A's over White Sox
Rockies over Reds
Angels over Mariners
D-Backs over Dodgers, (Come on Haren!!!)
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Thursday August 20th, 2009
Cardinals Update:
The Cardinals won another nail-biter against the Dodgers lastnight to shrink the gap between them and the National League's best record. With their 3-2 win, the Redbirds have now won 10 out of their last 12 games and have failed to lose back to back games in more than three weeks. Paired with a Cubs win lastnight, the Cards lead remained 6 games for the division lead as we head to San Diego.
The Redbirds followed a playoff-type formula for winning the game. The win wasn't pretty but it was hard-earned and well deserved. The formula consisted of 7 strong innings from their starter Adam Wainwright, good, effective work from their bullpen, and the small-ball manufacturing of a late-inning run without the need of a basehit. In the end closer Ryan Franklin converted his 31st save in 33 chances to pace the National League.
Wainwright started the game with a bang carrying a no-hitter into the sixth inning and only ran into trouble in the seventh. In a span of three hitters Waino surrendered his 2-0 lead, and it was on to a bullpen battle with the score tied. Andre Either hit a hanging curveball on a 1-2 pitch into the seats to cut the lead in half. After Wainwright got Manny Ramirez on a long fly ball to right, Casey Blake followed by taking another hanging curve into the seats to tie the game at two.
With the game tied heading into the ninth, Pujols patiently drew a walk from the Dodger closer Johnathon Broxton. Albert then waited till a 3-0 pitch to Matt Holliday and took off towards second. After an errant trow from catcher Russell Martin, Pujols advanced to third and the Redbirds were in business against a tough foe in Broxton. Holliday came trough with a deep line shot to center that easily scored Pujols.
LaRussa brought in Dennys Reyes to start the bottom half of the inning. After Reyes failed to do his job by hitting Either, in was straight to the mound for LaRussa to summon his closer. Franklin came in with a tough task ahead, in facing Ramirez and Blake both of which have hit Franklin hard and for a high average in the past. Franklin was up to the challenge in getting Manny on a broken-bat grounder, Blake on an easy pop-out, and James Loney on a flyball. With another hard fought victory in the books the Cards succeeded in winnig another series and will look to continue their road success in San Diego against the lowly Padres.
On another note, The Cards agree to terms with future Hall of Famer John Smoltz on Wednesday. The Redbirds had two glaring weeknesses as of Tuesday, a 5th starter and right-handed relief help for the late innings. On Wednesday GM John Mozeliak adressed one if not both of those issues in signing Smoltz. After a week of "recruiting" phone calls from players such as Wainwright and Mark DeRosa along with manager Tony LaRussa and pitching coach Dave Duncan, Smoltz decided this was the best place to ressurect his career. In my opinion, the Redbirds might have gotten themselves a real find. I understand that his season has been a disappointment so far, but none of that matters now. I truly believe this is the best situation for him to succeed. First you have Duncan, who has taken far less talented pitchers and turned them around for the better. Smoltz might be Duncan's most talented reclammation project. Another benefit would be that of the Gold Glove catcher he will be throwing too; you can't say enough about the comfort level Yadi provides, allowing the pitcher to throw any pitch at any time. Toss in the fact that Smoltz will be pitching with a chip on his shoulder, wanting to show everyone that he isn't done yet. All in all I am very excited about the possibilities Smoltz provides for the Cards. From what I hear Smoltz will be starting for the Redbirds on Sunday in San Diego and will be provided a few opportunities to start and then the Cards will se what happens and go from there, wether that be to continue to start or if he will move to the bullpen to help out there. In either circumstance I believe he will provide a boost to a team already on a roll.
Around Sports:
Plaxico Burress getting what he deserves? Burress will take a plea bargain and recieve a two-year prison sentence on gun charges in New York. It seems that Plax's lawyers have talked some sense into him and told him that he would lose his trial and end up with a 3 1/2 year sentence. Listen I know he technically didn't hurt anyone in the shooting and I hear that its not against the law to be stupid, but this guy had no chance to win his trial. I wonder if him getting a similar prison sentence to the beloved Micheal Vick is a bit much, but the law is the law. I do believe that Plax may be the scapegoat for those new gun laws in New York City, but in all reality "Athletes with Guns" is a club that needs to be broken up and fast.
Burress has paid a steep price for what he has done, maybe as steep as any athlete in recent memory. I mean shooting yourself in the leg while clubbing in sweatpants is about as embarassing as it gets, and being released from the Giants after signing an extension is a pretty big punishment for a SuperBowl winning wide reciever. I don't agree with the sentence he is getting for being stupid, but I don't write laws for cities like New York and I do try to follow the laws that exist. Plax broke the law and he's going to jail.
Bolt breaks the 200 meter World Record by .11 seconds in a blazing time of 19.19 seconds.
None of the nearly four dozen sponsors that the Philly Eagles have are staying put despite the signing of Vick. Many of the sponsors only complaint is they wish they had a little more notice in the situation.
Baseball Picks for Friday August 21st, 2009
Mariners over Indians
Nationals over Brewers
Pirates over Reds
Angels over Bluejays
Yankees over Red Sox
Phillies over Mets
Braves over Marlins
Rangers over Rays
Astros over D-Backs
Twins over Royals
Orioles over White Sox
Rockies over Giants
Tigers over A's
Cardinals over Padres
Dodgers over Cubs
The Cardinals won another nail-biter against the Dodgers lastnight to shrink the gap between them and the National League's best record. With their 3-2 win, the Redbirds have now won 10 out of their last 12 games and have failed to lose back to back games in more than three weeks. Paired with a Cubs win lastnight, the Cards lead remained 6 games for the division lead as we head to San Diego.
The Redbirds followed a playoff-type formula for winning the game. The win wasn't pretty but it was hard-earned and well deserved. The formula consisted of 7 strong innings from their starter Adam Wainwright, good, effective work from their bullpen, and the small-ball manufacturing of a late-inning run without the need of a basehit. In the end closer Ryan Franklin converted his 31st save in 33 chances to pace the National League.
Wainwright started the game with a bang carrying a no-hitter into the sixth inning and only ran into trouble in the seventh. In a span of three hitters Waino surrendered his 2-0 lead, and it was on to a bullpen battle with the score tied. Andre Either hit a hanging curveball on a 1-2 pitch into the seats to cut the lead in half. After Wainwright got Manny Ramirez on a long fly ball to right, Casey Blake followed by taking another hanging curve into the seats to tie the game at two.
With the game tied heading into the ninth, Pujols patiently drew a walk from the Dodger closer Johnathon Broxton. Albert then waited till a 3-0 pitch to Matt Holliday and took off towards second. After an errant trow from catcher Russell Martin, Pujols advanced to third and the Redbirds were in business against a tough foe in Broxton. Holliday came trough with a deep line shot to center that easily scored Pujols.
LaRussa brought in Dennys Reyes to start the bottom half of the inning. After Reyes failed to do his job by hitting Either, in was straight to the mound for LaRussa to summon his closer. Franklin came in with a tough task ahead, in facing Ramirez and Blake both of which have hit Franklin hard and for a high average in the past. Franklin was up to the challenge in getting Manny on a broken-bat grounder, Blake on an easy pop-out, and James Loney on a flyball. With another hard fought victory in the books the Cards succeeded in winnig another series and will look to continue their road success in San Diego against the lowly Padres.
On another note, The Cards agree to terms with future Hall of Famer John Smoltz on Wednesday. The Redbirds had two glaring weeknesses as of Tuesday, a 5th starter and right-handed relief help for the late innings. On Wednesday GM John Mozeliak adressed one if not both of those issues in signing Smoltz. After a week of "recruiting" phone calls from players such as Wainwright and Mark DeRosa along with manager Tony LaRussa and pitching coach Dave Duncan, Smoltz decided this was the best place to ressurect his career. In my opinion, the Redbirds might have gotten themselves a real find. I understand that his season has been a disappointment so far, but none of that matters now. I truly believe this is the best situation for him to succeed. First you have Duncan, who has taken far less talented pitchers and turned them around for the better. Smoltz might be Duncan's most talented reclammation project. Another benefit would be that of the Gold Glove catcher he will be throwing too; you can't say enough about the comfort level Yadi provides, allowing the pitcher to throw any pitch at any time. Toss in the fact that Smoltz will be pitching with a chip on his shoulder, wanting to show everyone that he isn't done yet. All in all I am very excited about the possibilities Smoltz provides for the Cards. From what I hear Smoltz will be starting for the Redbirds on Sunday in San Diego and will be provided a few opportunities to start and then the Cards will se what happens and go from there, wether that be to continue to start or if he will move to the bullpen to help out there. In either circumstance I believe he will provide a boost to a team already on a roll.
Around Sports:
Plaxico Burress getting what he deserves? Burress will take a plea bargain and recieve a two-year prison sentence on gun charges in New York. It seems that Plax's lawyers have talked some sense into him and told him that he would lose his trial and end up with a 3 1/2 year sentence. Listen I know he technically didn't hurt anyone in the shooting and I hear that its not against the law to be stupid, but this guy had no chance to win his trial. I wonder if him getting a similar prison sentence to the beloved Micheal Vick is a bit much, but the law is the law. I do believe that Plax may be the scapegoat for those new gun laws in New York City, but in all reality "Athletes with Guns" is a club that needs to be broken up and fast.
Burress has paid a steep price for what he has done, maybe as steep as any athlete in recent memory. I mean shooting yourself in the leg while clubbing in sweatpants is about as embarassing as it gets, and being released from the Giants after signing an extension is a pretty big punishment for a SuperBowl winning wide reciever. I don't agree with the sentence he is getting for being stupid, but I don't write laws for cities like New York and I do try to follow the laws that exist. Plax broke the law and he's going to jail.
Bolt breaks the 200 meter World Record by .11 seconds in a blazing time of 19.19 seconds.
None of the nearly four dozen sponsors that the Philly Eagles have are staying put despite the signing of Vick. Many of the sponsors only complaint is they wish they had a little more notice in the situation.
Baseball Picks for Friday August 21st, 2009
Mariners over Indians
Nationals over Brewers
Pirates over Reds
Angels over Bluejays
Yankees over Red Sox
Phillies over Mets
Braves over Marlins
Rangers over Rays
Astros over D-Backs
Twins over Royals
Orioles over White Sox
Rockies over Giants
Tigers over A's
Cardinals over Padres
Dodgers over Cubs
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Tuesday August 18th, 2009
Cardinals Update:
Carpenter looked good not great lastnight. 8 IP 8 K's and the win, cant ask much more of him. Very much enjoying the competition going on between Waino and Carp. Keep going guys.
Pujols hit #39 lastnight and it would be nice to see him keep this up and hit over 50 for the season. With about 40 something games to go he looks like a lock to do so.
Ankiel's homerun in the 7th inning was a welcome surprise even if it was against a knuckleballer. He was in the midst of a 1-17 slump and for him to propel the cards to a hard fought win over the team with the best record in the National League was great to see.
Ryan Franklin got season save #30 lastnight and what else can you say about him other than he has been one of the most consistent aspects of the Cardinals team this year. His consistency is one of the main reasons for the Cardinals success this year; a season removed from the bullpen debacle that was the Cards last year, i.e. 29 blown saves.
The Cardinals have expressed serious interest in John Smoltz. I had previously predicted he would end up in Arlington with the Rangers, but from what I have been reading it sounds more and more like he will end up in St. Louis with former teammates Mark DeRosa and Wainwright. At the time Waino was traded from the Braves to the Cardinals Smoltz was not a fan of losing his young protege. Not to metion I have heard Waino can hold his own on the links with Smoltz, who has been known to get out on the course and give Tiger a run for his money. Jayson Stark of ESPN predicted that Smoltz would be a good fit for the Cards and said that he thought he would end up here to shore up the eighth inning. He also metioned that the Cubs were in freefall and that the Cardinals looked like a team that could end up in the World Series. I also liked that guy.
I'm going to skip the updates around sports for today because I refuse to comment on Brett Farve anymore than has already be done. Don't get me wrong I like the guy and he definitely makes the Vikings a better team but enough already. Good luck Brett, but you have worn out your welcome with me.
Baseball Picks for Wednesday August 19th, 2009
Royals over White Sox
Angels over Indians
Tigers over Mariners
Rockies over Nationals
D-Backs over Phillies
Brewers over Pirates
Blue Jays over Red Sox
Rays over Orioles
Giants over Reds
Braves over Mets
Rangers over Twins
Astros over Marlins
A's over Yankees
Padres over Cubs
Cardinals over Dodgers
Carpenter looked good not great lastnight. 8 IP 8 K's and the win, cant ask much more of him. Very much enjoying the competition going on between Waino and Carp. Keep going guys.
Pujols hit #39 lastnight and it would be nice to see him keep this up and hit over 50 for the season. With about 40 something games to go he looks like a lock to do so.
Ankiel's homerun in the 7th inning was a welcome surprise even if it was against a knuckleballer. He was in the midst of a 1-17 slump and for him to propel the cards to a hard fought win over the team with the best record in the National League was great to see.
Ryan Franklin got season save #30 lastnight and what else can you say about him other than he has been one of the most consistent aspects of the Cardinals team this year. His consistency is one of the main reasons for the Cardinals success this year; a season removed from the bullpen debacle that was the Cards last year, i.e. 29 blown saves.
The Cardinals have expressed serious interest in John Smoltz. I had previously predicted he would end up in Arlington with the Rangers, but from what I have been reading it sounds more and more like he will end up in St. Louis with former teammates Mark DeRosa and Wainwright. At the time Waino was traded from the Braves to the Cardinals Smoltz was not a fan of losing his young protege. Not to metion I have heard Waino can hold his own on the links with Smoltz, who has been known to get out on the course and give Tiger a run for his money. Jayson Stark of ESPN predicted that Smoltz would be a good fit for the Cards and said that he thought he would end up here to shore up the eighth inning. He also metioned that the Cubs were in freefall and that the Cardinals looked like a team that could end up in the World Series. I also liked that guy.
I'm going to skip the updates around sports for today because I refuse to comment on Brett Farve anymore than has already be done. Don't get me wrong I like the guy and he definitely makes the Vikings a better team but enough already. Good luck Brett, but you have worn out your welcome with me.
Baseball Picks for Wednesday August 19th, 2009
Royals over White Sox
Angels over Indians
Tigers over Mariners
Rockies over Nationals
D-Backs over Phillies
Brewers over Pirates
Blue Jays over Red Sox
Rays over Orioles
Giants over Reds
Braves over Mets
Rangers over Twins
Astros over Marlins
A's over Yankees
Padres over Cubs
Cardinals over Dodgers
Monday, August 17, 2009
Monday August 17th, 2009
Well I'm going to start today with a Cardinals update from the following weekend.
Friday night Wainwright did a little bit of everything for the Birds on his way to his league-leading 14th win of the season. Waino pitched 7 shutout innings and could have probably pitched further into the game but with a Wednesday start coming up against the Dodgers he was pulled prematurely. All was well and good with his pitching but he also got the scoring started with a 3rd inning homerun. The rest of the offense kept things rolling and the Cards went on to win 9-2. Saturday night was not as impressive a game with Pineiro and the billpen not nearly as sharp as they have been this season but we prevail none-the-less 7-4 to stretch the division lead to 4 and a half games over the Cubs who are in absolute freefall mode.
Sundays game was the most impresive of the weekend, at least the ending was, and a game in which a team can use as a jumping point towards the playoffs. After a less than impressive back-and-forth contest and two lengthy rain-delays, the Cards headed into the bottom of the 9th down a run with the daunting task of coming back against one of the finest closers in the league in Heath Bell. Bell hadn't blown a save since late May. After a leadoff single by Ryan Ludwick, Mark DeRosa hit a rocket shot off Bell's ankle, but the ball bounced right to firstbase for the out. Ludwick however, moved over to second on the play. The next batter Yadier Molina then came through with a single to tie the game and give Bell a blown save. With most of the fans gone for the day, rookie Colby Rasmus gave the remaining fans something to cheer about. Rasmus yanked an 0-1 pitch into thr right field seats and the Cards had completed the sweep of the lowly Padres. This was the second walk-off homerun for Ramsus on the season, and it pushed the NL Central leading Cardinals to a season high 15 games over .500 and stretched their division lead to 5 games over the Cubs and 8 games over the Brewers.
The walk-off win helped to give the Cardinals 8 wins in their last 9 games and the finished the week at 5-1.
The Cards are in Los Angeles to face the NL West leading Dodgers tonight, in a match up of teams going in opposite directions. With Chris Carpenter taking the hill looking for his 8th straight win and the Dodgers countering with a young knuckleballer making his Dodger debut, it looks to be an advantage in the Cards favor. With Mitchel Boggs going tomorrow and Waino taking the series finale, the Cards are looking to take another series and gain some ground on the team with the best record in the National League.
Draftee Update: The Cardinals and first round draft pick Shelby Miller have agreed to terms. Miller will recieve a $2.875 million bonus.
Around Sports:
Stasburg has not signed yet with the 12 midnight deadline looming. Many sources have been reporting that the Nats have offered around $15 million with incentives that would push the deal over $17 million, which would shatter the record bonus of $10.1 million that Mark Prior recieved after he was selected #2 overall out of USC behind Joe Mauer in 2001. I think this kid would be making a huge mistake but not signing. Right now his stock is as high as its going to get, and I truly believe that not signing would only lead to his mystique being damaged playing somewhere for a year. There is no benefit of him not signing, not for him or the Nationals.
Sign of things to come? Marc Bulger with be out about 2 weeks with a broken pinkie on his throwing hand. The injury occured on a transfer from center. Kyle Boller will take over the first-team duties while Bulger is out.
McNabb is excited about the possibilities that exist with him and his new teammate Micheal Vick being on the field at the same time. My thought is it is still too early to tell, but Donavan and the Eagles might have just become the fastest offense in the NFC and maybe the NFL.
The Detroit Tigers aquired Aubrey Huff from the Orioles for a minor leaguer today. The firstbaseman is batting .253 with 13 homeruns and 72 RBI's. Not much else to say on that subject.
Future Hall-of-Famer John Smoltz was officially released by the Boston Red Sox today, making him available to sign with any team he wants. I predicted last week that he would end up with the Texas Rangers, but with his release today, the pool of interested teams has increased. Some of the teams with interest include the Dodgers, Cardinals, Rangers, Astros, and Marlins. Smoltz figures to draw significant offers to land play in a playoff race. The teams that miss out on Smoltz will also have the opportunity to look at Vicente Padilla or Russ Ortiz, both of which became available as free agents on Monday.
Baseball Picks for Tuesday August 18th, 2009
Indians over Angels
Mariners over Tigers
Rockies over Nationals
D-Backs over Phillies
Pirates over Brewers
Red Sox over BlueJays
Rays over Orioles
Giants over Reds
Braves over Mets
Rangers over Twins
Astros over Marlins
Royals over White Sox
Yankees over A's
Cubs over Padres
Dodgers over Cardinals
Friday night Wainwright did a little bit of everything for the Birds on his way to his league-leading 14th win of the season. Waino pitched 7 shutout innings and could have probably pitched further into the game but with a Wednesday start coming up against the Dodgers he was pulled prematurely. All was well and good with his pitching but he also got the scoring started with a 3rd inning homerun. The rest of the offense kept things rolling and the Cards went on to win 9-2. Saturday night was not as impressive a game with Pineiro and the billpen not nearly as sharp as they have been this season but we prevail none-the-less 7-4 to stretch the division lead to 4 and a half games over the Cubs who are in absolute freefall mode.
Sundays game was the most impresive of the weekend, at least the ending was, and a game in which a team can use as a jumping point towards the playoffs. After a less than impressive back-and-forth contest and two lengthy rain-delays, the Cards headed into the bottom of the 9th down a run with the daunting task of coming back against one of the finest closers in the league in Heath Bell. Bell hadn't blown a save since late May. After a leadoff single by Ryan Ludwick, Mark DeRosa hit a rocket shot off Bell's ankle, but the ball bounced right to firstbase for the out. Ludwick however, moved over to second on the play. The next batter Yadier Molina then came through with a single to tie the game and give Bell a blown save. With most of the fans gone for the day, rookie Colby Rasmus gave the remaining fans something to cheer about. Rasmus yanked an 0-1 pitch into thr right field seats and the Cards had completed the sweep of the lowly Padres. This was the second walk-off homerun for Ramsus on the season, and it pushed the NL Central leading Cardinals to a season high 15 games over .500 and stretched their division lead to 5 games over the Cubs and 8 games over the Brewers.
The walk-off win helped to give the Cardinals 8 wins in their last 9 games and the finished the week at 5-1.
The Cards are in Los Angeles to face the NL West leading Dodgers tonight, in a match up of teams going in opposite directions. With Chris Carpenter taking the hill looking for his 8th straight win and the Dodgers countering with a young knuckleballer making his Dodger debut, it looks to be an advantage in the Cards favor. With Mitchel Boggs going tomorrow and Waino taking the series finale, the Cards are looking to take another series and gain some ground on the team with the best record in the National League.
Draftee Update: The Cardinals and first round draft pick Shelby Miller have agreed to terms. Miller will recieve a $2.875 million bonus.
Around Sports:
Stasburg has not signed yet with the 12 midnight deadline looming. Many sources have been reporting that the Nats have offered around $15 million with incentives that would push the deal over $17 million, which would shatter the record bonus of $10.1 million that Mark Prior recieved after he was selected #2 overall out of USC behind Joe Mauer in 2001. I think this kid would be making a huge mistake but not signing. Right now his stock is as high as its going to get, and I truly believe that not signing would only lead to his mystique being damaged playing somewhere for a year. There is no benefit of him not signing, not for him or the Nationals.
Sign of things to come? Marc Bulger with be out about 2 weeks with a broken pinkie on his throwing hand. The injury occured on a transfer from center. Kyle Boller will take over the first-team duties while Bulger is out.
McNabb is excited about the possibilities that exist with him and his new teammate Micheal Vick being on the field at the same time. My thought is it is still too early to tell, but Donavan and the Eagles might have just become the fastest offense in the NFC and maybe the NFL.
The Detroit Tigers aquired Aubrey Huff from the Orioles for a minor leaguer today. The firstbaseman is batting .253 with 13 homeruns and 72 RBI's. Not much else to say on that subject.
Future Hall-of-Famer John Smoltz was officially released by the Boston Red Sox today, making him available to sign with any team he wants. I predicted last week that he would end up with the Texas Rangers, but with his release today, the pool of interested teams has increased. Some of the teams with interest include the Dodgers, Cardinals, Rangers, Astros, and Marlins. Smoltz figures to draw significant offers to land play in a playoff race. The teams that miss out on Smoltz will also have the opportunity to look at Vicente Padilla or Russ Ortiz, both of which became available as free agents on Monday.
Baseball Picks for Tuesday August 18th, 2009
Indians over Angels
Mariners over Tigers
Rockies over Nationals
D-Backs over Phillies
Pirates over Brewers
Red Sox over BlueJays
Rays over Orioles
Giants over Reds
Braves over Mets
Rangers over Twins
Astros over Marlins
Royals over White Sox
Yankees over A's
Cubs over Padres
Dodgers over Cardinals
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Thursday August 13th, 2009
Well this is my very first blog post so here goes.
So I'm starting this blog because I am a huge sports fan, an even bigger St. Louis Cardinals fan and I talk about sports all the time. Yeah Yeah your saying, big deal. Heres the thing. My wife hates it when I talk baseball to her and hates it even more when I talk to her about sports that aren't baseball. So what I thinking is if I can just blog about what I would tell her when see gets home she would be happier, and hey who knows maybe I find out I kinda know what I'm talking about.
I have an overnight job and then I stay at home with my 2 year old son during the day, needless to say I have ample time to watch sports during the day. ESPN, MLB Network, anything with sports, I'm in.
Cardinals Update:
Well Carpenter looked good again lastnight. 10 K's 7 IP, i will take that any day
Franklin was solid again, can't ask for much more from your closer.
Pujols, Holliday, Ryan, And Skip did their parts with at least two hits each.
I'm becoming more frustrated with DeRosa, I mean yes I will take 21 HRS (10 as a Card) from anyone with a month and a half to go, but he needs to put the bat on the ball more consistently. Too many K's.
Im still a bit worried about the Cards in their set-up roles. I'm starting to see a real future for Hawksworth, he comes in throws strikes and uses his defense, works quickly and is aggresive. Sounds like he listens to Dave Duncan. Is it just me or does Duncan know what he's doing.
We need to get Ankiel and Rasmus going more consistently but they should be fine with less pressure on them.
Glaus took some grounders before the game yesterday. Boy would his bat be a welcome addition to our lineup in September.
Looking for another great start for Waino on Friday.
Around Sports:
Who thinks it fair that Youklis and Porcello get the same amount of games when Youk would have played in all 5 whereas Porcello would have only been in 1. Another great punishment handed down by the all-knowing MLB execs.
Donte Stallworth's year-long suspension, not long enough! He killed a MAN, not a dog!!!
Anyone else wondering WHERE in that Louisville restaurant did Pitino have sex with the blonde? I don't know about you but I have never been to a place like that. And really? You gave her 3 grand so she could go sign up for some health insurance? Really? Ever heard of a pre-existing condition?
Anyone else think Bronson Arroyo has lost his mind completely?
Those classy Cubs fans really showed their true colors lastnight. I sure hope that idiot gets what he deserves, and Victorino sues him. On that note, those Cubs just finished being swept by Cliff Lee and the Phils. Do you realize the Cubs haven't won a series against a winning team since May, that doesnt sound like a Curse-breaking team to me.
Tiger looked good today and finished in the lead with -5 opening round. Watch out, can you say hatrick?
Just finished watching Justin Verlander shut down the Red Sox. He just hit 100mph in the 8th inning. Wow, he might be the best pitcher in the American League with a chance for the playoffs, (sorry Halladay).
The IOC recommended golf and rugby for the 2016 Olympics, what??? Rugby but not Baseball, good call?
RIP Andy Kessler, your work to get skateparks in New York might have gotten the ball rolling to get us to where we are now with the X Games, Thank You and god bless.
Where will Smoltz end up? My guess, the Texas Rangers. They drop one bad pitcher in Padilla and pick up another in Hall of Fame bound Smoltz.
Baseball Picks for Friday August 14, 2009
I am in no way pushing my picks for the use as bets, in fact it would probably be pretty stupid to do so, I just like to make the picks and see how I do, enjoy!
Cubs over Pirates
Angels over Orioles
Tigers over Royals
Reds over Nationals
Giants over Mets
Marlins over Rockies
Braves over Phillies
Bluejays over Rays
Brewers over Astros
Red Sox over Rangers
Twins over Indians
Cardinals over Padres
D-Backs over Dodgers
A's over White Sox
Mariners over Yankees
So I'm starting this blog because I am a huge sports fan, an even bigger St. Louis Cardinals fan and I talk about sports all the time. Yeah Yeah your saying, big deal. Heres the thing. My wife hates it when I talk baseball to her and hates it even more when I talk to her about sports that aren't baseball. So what I thinking is if I can just blog about what I would tell her when see gets home she would be happier, and hey who knows maybe I find out I kinda know what I'm talking about.
I have an overnight job and then I stay at home with my 2 year old son during the day, needless to say I have ample time to watch sports during the day. ESPN, MLB Network, anything with sports, I'm in.
Cardinals Update:
Well Carpenter looked good again lastnight. 10 K's 7 IP, i will take that any day
Franklin was solid again, can't ask for much more from your closer.
Pujols, Holliday, Ryan, And Skip did their parts with at least two hits each.
I'm becoming more frustrated with DeRosa, I mean yes I will take 21 HRS (10 as a Card) from anyone with a month and a half to go, but he needs to put the bat on the ball more consistently. Too many K's.
Im still a bit worried about the Cards in their set-up roles. I'm starting to see a real future for Hawksworth, he comes in throws strikes and uses his defense, works quickly and is aggresive. Sounds like he listens to Dave Duncan. Is it just me or does Duncan know what he's doing.
We need to get Ankiel and Rasmus going more consistently but they should be fine with less pressure on them.
Glaus took some grounders before the game yesterday. Boy would his bat be a welcome addition to our lineup in September.
Looking for another great start for Waino on Friday.
Around Sports:
Who thinks it fair that Youklis and Porcello get the same amount of games when Youk would have played in all 5 whereas Porcello would have only been in 1. Another great punishment handed down by the all-knowing MLB execs.
Donte Stallworth's year-long suspension, not long enough! He killed a MAN, not a dog!!!
Anyone else wondering WHERE in that Louisville restaurant did Pitino have sex with the blonde? I don't know about you but I have never been to a place like that. And really? You gave her 3 grand so she could go sign up for some health insurance? Really? Ever heard of a pre-existing condition?
Anyone else think Bronson Arroyo has lost his mind completely?
Those classy Cubs fans really showed their true colors lastnight. I sure hope that idiot gets what he deserves, and Victorino sues him. On that note, those Cubs just finished being swept by Cliff Lee and the Phils. Do you realize the Cubs haven't won a series against a winning team since May, that doesnt sound like a Curse-breaking team to me.
Tiger looked good today and finished in the lead with -5 opening round. Watch out, can you say hatrick?
Just finished watching Justin Verlander shut down the Red Sox. He just hit 100mph in the 8th inning. Wow, he might be the best pitcher in the American League with a chance for the playoffs, (sorry Halladay).
The IOC recommended golf and rugby for the 2016 Olympics, what??? Rugby but not Baseball, good call?
RIP Andy Kessler, your work to get skateparks in New York might have gotten the ball rolling to get us to where we are now with the X Games, Thank You and god bless.
Where will Smoltz end up? My guess, the Texas Rangers. They drop one bad pitcher in Padilla and pick up another in Hall of Fame bound Smoltz.
Baseball Picks for Friday August 14, 2009
I am in no way pushing my picks for the use as bets, in fact it would probably be pretty stupid to do so, I just like to make the picks and see how I do, enjoy!
Cubs over Pirates
Angels over Orioles
Tigers over Royals
Reds over Nationals
Giants over Mets
Marlins over Rockies
Braves over Phillies
Bluejays over Rays
Brewers over Astros
Red Sox over Rangers
Twins over Indians
Cardinals over Padres
D-Backs over Dodgers
A's over White Sox
Mariners over Yankees
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