More of the same from yesterday with last night's games, some day baseball (the savior of midweek boredom), today's Fantasy Spin, news and notes, and finally concluding with a preview of tonight's action.
Last Night
-Joe Girardi's Yankees managerial debut began successfully as Chien-Ming Wang allowed 2 runs over 7 innings, outdueling Roy Halladay in a 3-2 win over Toronto. Melky Cabrera homered in the win, as Chamberlain and Rivers closed out the Jays for the win.
-The evening started poorly for the Mets, and ended that way as a Robert Andino homer (his first as a big leaguer) in the 10th off of Matt Wise gave Florida a 5-4 win. Starter Pedro Martinez left in the 4th inning with a strained hamstring, but not before giving up 4 runs in his first 2 innings and allowing homers in the first two frames (to Dan Uggla and Luis Gonzalez) for the first time in his career. The Mets battled back with 3 in the 4th and 1 in the 5th to tie the score and then the bullpens brought the game to the 10th where Andino won it for the Fish. Angel Pagan drove in 2 in the Met loss.
-Jon Garland allowed just 1 run over 8 innings as the Angels toasted the Twins 9-1. Boof Bonser pitched well, but took the loss as Vladimir Guerrero drove in 3 for the Halos. Garrett Anderson and Maicer Izturis each drove in 2 in the victory.
-The Rockies and Cardinals finally got a game in this season, and it didn't disappoint. A Yadier Molina homer in the 5th gave St Louis a 1-0 lead going to the 8th, where a Matt Holliday fielder's choice scored a run to tie it, and a walk to Jayson Nix by loser Ryan Franklin gave Colorado a 2-1 lead they wouldn't relinquish. Taylor Buchholz got the win for the Rox, and Fuentes and Corpas closed the game out. The starters, Kip Wells and Kyle Lohse both had good outings.
-Boston and Oakland resumed their series with Dice-K and Blanton both pitching good games, but the Red Sox came out on top with a 2-1 decision. A Jack Cust homer off Dice-K gave Oakland the lead, but an RBI single by Ellsbury in the 5th and a run scoring double by Jason Varitek in the 6th gave Okajima and Papelbon enough support to secure the win.
-In another tight contest from Petco, San Diego scored 2 in the 4th on a Scott Hairston home run which was enough to defeat Houston 2-1. Chris Young's only allowed run was a bases loaded walk to Michael Bourn, and the team of Thatcher, Meredith, Bell, and Hoffman closed it out for the Padres. Brandon Backe allowed the 2 runs over 5 innings in defeat.
-It was a wild one in Seattle as a Josh Hamilton homer off of JJ Putz in the 9th gave Texas a 5-4 win over the homestanding Mariners. Vicente Padilla and Felix Hernandez both spun good games, but the Rangers started the madness in the 8th by scoring twice off of Eric O'Flaherty. Seattle then scored three times in the bottom half on an Ian Kinsler error and a Joaquin Benoit wild pitch. Putz was then summoned to quell the hysteria, but the two run Hamilton dinger gave Texas the lead, and then CJ Wilson pitched the 9th to close it out.
-Matt Cain threw 5 and 2/3 scoreless but couldn't earn the win. Derek Lowe was masterful until the 7th where he walked in a run and then allowed an RBI single to Eugenio Velez. LA then scored twice in the bottom half on a Rafael Furcal single, and won it off Keichi Yabu in the 9th. Takashi Saito picked up the win for the Dodgers.
Day Games
-Brian Bannister threw 7 scoreless innings of 2 hit ball as the Royals shut out the Tigers 4-0. Kenny Rogers allowed 2 runs over 6 innings to take the loss. Billy Butler drove in 2 for KC and Nunez and Soria pitched the final 2 frames to preserve the shutout.
-Ted Lilly allowed 4 runs in 4 2/3 as the Brewers canned the Cubs 8-2 in Wrigley. Jason Kendall had 2 RBI and a steal for Milwaukee, Rickie Weeks homered to lead off the game, and Corey Hart stole 2nd and 3rd in the same inning for the Brewers. Jeff Suppan threw 6 solid innings for the win.
-Bottom of the 9th in Boston, as Jon Lester and the Red Sox hold a 5-0 lead over Oakland.
News & Notes
-Pedro Martinez will go on the 15 day DL with his hurt hamstring and could be out 4-6 weeks according to Peter Gammons.
-Dodgers 3B coach Larry Bowa has been suspended 3 games for arguing a call last night.
-Carlos Zambrano left his start on Monday due to a cramp caused by low potassium. He should be fine, as Lou Piniella told MLB.com. Sources told SprungOnSports that Cubs fans are starting a banana drive so that Z can stay healthy.
-Jorge Posada will be scratched from tonight's Yankees-Jays game due to a sore shoulder, according to ESPN Radio in New York. Jose Molina will start and bat 8th.
Fantasy Spin
-After hitting a big homer in his first big league game, Cubs OF Kosuke Fukudome is being hyped like crazy. I asked Baseball America's Jim Callis on what should be expected from the Japanese sensation:
"Good player, I see him more as .280 with a good OBP and 15-20 HR." So fantasy owners shouldn't go overboard, but Cubs fans should be happy with what he brings to the table. ESPN fantasy writer Jason Grey said that he should hit around 15 homers with a lot of doubles, a good OBP, and plus defense.
-Grey also talked with SOS about Royals closer Joakim Soria, who struck out the side today and earned a save in Monday's win over Detroit. Grey said that he's "As underappeciated as any closer in the game." So try to get him on the cheap as he's highly recommended by yours truly.
Wednesday Night Preview
AJ Burnett and Mike Mussina face off as Toronto and New York go at it at 7pm on ESPN2. Other notable matchups includes Carmona and Vazquez in Chicago, Haren and Arroyo in the 'Natti, and Lincecum-Billingsley in LA
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Wednesday, April 2, 2008
N.B.A. Today
Scores, standings, news, and rumors are all here and now on Today.
Last Night
-Six late Peja Stojakovic points led New Orleans past Orlando 98-97 to keep the top spot in the west. Chris Paul led 5 players in double figures for the Hornets with 19 points and 12 dimes, and David West had 18 points and 12 boards. Hedo Turkoglu led the Magic with 26, who are pretty much entrenched as the 3rd seed in the east.
-Philadelphia dealt New Jersey a tough blow to their playoff hopes with a 108-99 win at the Izod Center. Andre Miller led the Sixers with 24 points and 11 assists while Vince Carter had 29 in the Nets loss. New Jersey is now 3.5 games behind Atlanta for the final playoff spot. It doesn't look good with 7 games left. The Sixers are in 7th place, a half game out of the 6th spot.
-Milwaukee continued the Knicks' woes, defeating them 119-115 in OT. Michael Redd had 36 to lead all scorers, while Quentin Richardson paced New York with 22.
-Detroit will likely finish with the east's 2nd seed barring a Boston collapse after the Pistons won in Minnesota 94-90 behind 27 from rookie Rodney Stuckey. Al Jefferson had 26 in the Wolves loss as they fell to 19-54.
-Chicago can now be counted out of the playoff picture after a 104-92 home loss to the Celtics. Ray Allen had 22 for Boston, while Kevin Garnett had 20 in the win. Tyrus Thomas led all scorers with 24.
-San Antonio remains tied atop the west as they defeated Golden State 116-92 at the AT&T Center. Tony Parker led all scorers with 26 for the Spurs who are percentage points behind New Orleans. Baron Davis had 19 for the Warriors, who sit a half game behind Denver for 8th in the west and just a full game shy of Dallas for the 7th position.
-Denver stayed on the right side of the playoff picture after a 126-120 win over Phoenix at the Pepsi Center. Allen Iverson led the Nuggets with 31 as Carmelo Anthony had 25 in the win. The Suns were led by Leandro Barbosa's 27, and stand in 5th position a half game clear of Houston who is in 6th and a half game behind the 3rd place Lakers in the division race.
-Houston remains in 6th after losing a tough 99-98 decision in Sacramento. Ron Artest had 30 ti lead the Kings, while Tracy McGrady led all scorers with 32 for the Rockets.
News & Rumors
-The Memphis Commerical Appeal reports that the Grizzlies could fire head coach Marc Iavaroni after just one season on the job.
-Despite the Hawks being in the 8th spot in the east playoffs for now, head coach Mike Woodson and GM Billy Knight may not be safe, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
-Sam Vincent is safe in Charlotte, says their local Observer.
-Bobby Jones suited up and played for the Spurs last night, making that the 5th team he's played for this season. That, folks is an NBA record.
-Ron Artest probably won't leave Sacramento after this season, DeSagana Diop remains happy as a Net, and Zach Randolph wouldn't be shocked if he were traded this summer. (Sacramento Bee, Newark Star-Ledger, Newsday)
-Eric Gordon will decide Friday if he will declare for the NBA Draft, says the Indianapolis Star.
-The Knicks will announce Donnie Walsh as their new president today. This confirms the rumors that the franchise really is on a 7 day delay from the rest of the world.
Wednesday Notables
Indiana remains 3 games out of the final spot in the east, they need a win in Botson (7pm ESPN) to stay in it. The Celtics can clinch the top spot in the conference with a win. Atlanta will host Toronto at the same time. Golden State can tie Dallas this evening for the 7th spot in the west (9:30pm ESPN) and perhaps push Denver out of the playoffs altogether.
Last Night
-Six late Peja Stojakovic points led New Orleans past Orlando 98-97 to keep the top spot in the west. Chris Paul led 5 players in double figures for the Hornets with 19 points and 12 dimes, and David West had 18 points and 12 boards. Hedo Turkoglu led the Magic with 26, who are pretty much entrenched as the 3rd seed in the east.
-Philadelphia dealt New Jersey a tough blow to their playoff hopes with a 108-99 win at the Izod Center. Andre Miller led the Sixers with 24 points and 11 assists while Vince Carter had 29 in the Nets loss. New Jersey is now 3.5 games behind Atlanta for the final playoff spot. It doesn't look good with 7 games left. The Sixers are in 7th place, a half game out of the 6th spot.
-Milwaukee continued the Knicks' woes, defeating them 119-115 in OT. Michael Redd had 36 to lead all scorers, while Quentin Richardson paced New York with 22.
-Detroit will likely finish with the east's 2nd seed barring a Boston collapse after the Pistons won in Minnesota 94-90 behind 27 from rookie Rodney Stuckey. Al Jefferson had 26 in the Wolves loss as they fell to 19-54.
-Chicago can now be counted out of the playoff picture after a 104-92 home loss to the Celtics. Ray Allen had 22 for Boston, while Kevin Garnett had 20 in the win. Tyrus Thomas led all scorers with 24.
-San Antonio remains tied atop the west as they defeated Golden State 116-92 at the AT&T Center. Tony Parker led all scorers with 26 for the Spurs who are percentage points behind New Orleans. Baron Davis had 19 for the Warriors, who sit a half game behind Denver for 8th in the west and just a full game shy of Dallas for the 7th position.
-Denver stayed on the right side of the playoff picture after a 126-120 win over Phoenix at the Pepsi Center. Allen Iverson led the Nuggets with 31 as Carmelo Anthony had 25 in the win. The Suns were led by Leandro Barbosa's 27, and stand in 5th position a half game clear of Houston who is in 6th and a half game behind the 3rd place Lakers in the division race.
-Houston remains in 6th after losing a tough 99-98 decision in Sacramento. Ron Artest had 30 ti lead the Kings, while Tracy McGrady led all scorers with 32 for the Rockets.
News & Rumors
-The Memphis Commerical Appeal reports that the Grizzlies could fire head coach Marc Iavaroni after just one season on the job.
-Despite the Hawks being in the 8th spot in the east playoffs for now, head coach Mike Woodson and GM Billy Knight may not be safe, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
-Sam Vincent is safe in Charlotte, says their local Observer.
-Bobby Jones suited up and played for the Spurs last night, making that the 5th team he's played for this season. That, folks is an NBA record.
-Ron Artest probably won't leave Sacramento after this season, DeSagana Diop remains happy as a Net, and Zach Randolph wouldn't be shocked if he were traded this summer. (Sacramento Bee, Newark Star-Ledger, Newsday)
-Eric Gordon will decide Friday if he will declare for the NBA Draft, says the Indianapolis Star.
-The Knicks will announce Donnie Walsh as their new president today. This confirms the rumors that the franchise really is on a 7 day delay from the rest of the world.
Wednesday Notables
Indiana remains 3 games out of the final spot in the east, they need a win in Botson (7pm ESPN) to stay in it. The Celtics can clinch the top spot in the conference with a win. Atlanta will host Toronto at the same time. Golden State can tie Dallas this evening for the 7th spot in the west (9:30pm ESPN) and perhaps push Denver out of the playoffs altogether.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Around The Majors- Tuesday
Opening Day may be over for most teams in baseball, but not for all of them. I'll go through yesterday's night action, and preview today's games with the latest news and the fantasy spin of the day.
Last Night
-There were a lot of unexpected things going on between the Mariners and Rangers. Erik Bedard walked 4 in his 5 innings of work, Ichiro went hitless, and Kevin Millwood pitched six scoreless innings and lost. Jose Lopez drove in 2 for Seattle and JJ Putz closed the door on the 5-2 win from Arlington. Michael Young homered off Bedard in the first for Texas.
-For all the haters of Livan Hernandez, they were left a bit speechless after yesterday. The new Twin allowed just 2 runs over 7 innings as rookie Carlos Gomez had 2 hits, 2 runs, and 2 steals in a 3-2 win over the Angels. Jered Weaver allowed 3 runs over 6 and 1/3 frames for the loss, as Howie Kendrick had 2 hits and an RBI for LA. Pat Neshek struck out the side in the 8th, and Joe Nathan pitched the 9th for the save.
-It was a wild one at the Ted last night. Long after Ian Snell and Tom Glavine put out good efforts on the hill, the Pirates scored 4 times in the 8th and once in the 9th to take a 9-4 lead. Then Atlanta scored 5 times in the 9th off of Damaso Marte and closer Matt Capps to tie the game at 9. They then went to the 12th inning where Xavier Nady hit a 3 run bomb (his 2nd of the game) off of loser Blaine Boyer to give the Pirates a 12-9 cushion. Then Jeff Francouer homered to make it 12-10 and an RBI single by Mark Kotsay made it 12-11 before Pittsburgh finally got the final out to preserve the win. Nady and Nate McLouth each drove in 4 (McLouth also homered), and Escobar, Jones, and McCann each drove in 3 for the Braves. Atlanta's bullpen has to find a way to stop teams after their offense kept them in the game again with a 9th inning rally.
-Jake Peavy allowed no runs on 3 hits in 7 innings and had 2 RBI as the Padres blanked the Astros 4-0. Roy Oswalt allowed 11 hits for Houston but amazingly gave up only 3 runs in his 5 and 1/3 of work. Michael Bourn stole 2 bags for Houston.
Fantasy Spin
Three prominent players from last night's action; Carlos Gomez, Nate McLouth, and Michael Bourn are the subjects of today's Spin. All three are great assets in H2H leagues because of their speed, but which one is better? The one who can contribute in more than one category. ESPN Fantasy writer AJ Mass says that Pittsburgh's young OF is his man for the job: "McLouth over Gomez... due to his not being a one-cat wonder." Mass said, most likely referring to McLouth's homer last night. "I think I'd go Bourn over Gomez as well - I expect a better SB/AB rate for Bourn." As shown last night, Bourn will go almost whenever he gets on base, which will mean a lot of swiped bags if he improves his overall OBP. Another ESPN writer, Matthew Berry said that he thinks Bourn could steal over 60 bases this year. While Gomez and Bourn may only give you steals, McLouth is better than the two because he can help you out in other areas.
News & Notes
-Moises Alou said that he wouldn't have been able to catch the Bartman Ball even if the now infamous Cubs fan hadn't caught the ball. Wait...now who are they gonna blame? It looks like the 100 year old Scapegoat never gets a break. From farm fodder to Kerry Wood yesterday, it looks like the same Old Style for the Cubbies.
-The average big league salary is now over 3 million dollars, and somehow there was some sort of revelation that A-Rod makes more than the Marlins. In a sad and horrifying truth to Yankee fans, GM Brian Cashman made this astute point about the Marlins:
"They've won a championship more recently than we have as an organization. So there's many different ways to skin a cat,"
Cue the laugh track and a "ha-ha" from Nelson Muntz.
-Philadelphia has signed Olmedo Saenz off of waivers, perhaps more proof that the team wants to trade Wes Helms for relief pitching. God knows they need it. Someone who immediately comes to mind is Mike Stanton. Even if you just laughed at that notion, he can't do much worse than Tom Gordon, right? (insert truthful sounding reassurance to Phillies fans here)
-The Indians are being very secretive about Victor Martinez's injury, more on it as it becomes available. Kelly Shoppach would receive time in his absence.
-Bartolo Colon will start on Opening Day for the Red Sox in 2008, the AAA Pawtucket Red Sox. The former Cy Young award winner makes his start on Thursday. Where's Nelson?
Tuesday Night Preview
The Yankees will try again to start their season at 7 as Chien-Ming Wang and Roy Halladay go at it in The Bronx. The Mets send Pedro Martinez to the hill in Miami at 7 against the Marlins dynamic 2nd starter Rick VandenHurk. Two 8pm games include John Garlans and the Angels facing Boof Bonser and Minnesota and Colorado and St Louis opening the season for real now as Kyle Lohse faces Kip Wells in a battle from the scrap heap. There are four 10pm games today, including Boston and Oakland renewing their series from Cali as Blanton again faces Matsuzaka. Felix Hernandez takes the hill for Seattle as they play Padilla and Texas, Brandon Backe and Chris Young go in San Diego, and Cain-Lowe is the matchup as the Giants battle the rival Dodgers.
Last Night
-There were a lot of unexpected things going on between the Mariners and Rangers. Erik Bedard walked 4 in his 5 innings of work, Ichiro went hitless, and Kevin Millwood pitched six scoreless innings and lost. Jose Lopez drove in 2 for Seattle and JJ Putz closed the door on the 5-2 win from Arlington. Michael Young homered off Bedard in the first for Texas.
-For all the haters of Livan Hernandez, they were left a bit speechless after yesterday. The new Twin allowed just 2 runs over 7 innings as rookie Carlos Gomez had 2 hits, 2 runs, and 2 steals in a 3-2 win over the Angels. Jered Weaver allowed 3 runs over 6 and 1/3 frames for the loss, as Howie Kendrick had 2 hits and an RBI for LA. Pat Neshek struck out the side in the 8th, and Joe Nathan pitched the 9th for the save.
-It was a wild one at the Ted last night. Long after Ian Snell and Tom Glavine put out good efforts on the hill, the Pirates scored 4 times in the 8th and once in the 9th to take a 9-4 lead. Then Atlanta scored 5 times in the 9th off of Damaso Marte and closer Matt Capps to tie the game at 9. They then went to the 12th inning where Xavier Nady hit a 3 run bomb (his 2nd of the game) off of loser Blaine Boyer to give the Pirates a 12-9 cushion. Then Jeff Francouer homered to make it 12-10 and an RBI single by Mark Kotsay made it 12-11 before Pittsburgh finally got the final out to preserve the win. Nady and Nate McLouth each drove in 4 (McLouth also homered), and Escobar, Jones, and McCann each drove in 3 for the Braves. Atlanta's bullpen has to find a way to stop teams after their offense kept them in the game again with a 9th inning rally.
-Jake Peavy allowed no runs on 3 hits in 7 innings and had 2 RBI as the Padres blanked the Astros 4-0. Roy Oswalt allowed 11 hits for Houston but amazingly gave up only 3 runs in his 5 and 1/3 of work. Michael Bourn stole 2 bags for Houston.
Fantasy Spin
Three prominent players from last night's action; Carlos Gomez, Nate McLouth, and Michael Bourn are the subjects of today's Spin. All three are great assets in H2H leagues because of their speed, but which one is better? The one who can contribute in more than one category. ESPN Fantasy writer AJ Mass says that Pittsburgh's young OF is his man for the job: "McLouth over Gomez... due to his not being a one-cat wonder." Mass said, most likely referring to McLouth's homer last night. "I think I'd go Bourn over Gomez as well - I expect a better SB/AB rate for Bourn." As shown last night, Bourn will go almost whenever he gets on base, which will mean a lot of swiped bags if he improves his overall OBP. Another ESPN writer, Matthew Berry said that he thinks Bourn could steal over 60 bases this year. While Gomez and Bourn may only give you steals, McLouth is better than the two because he can help you out in other areas.
News & Notes
-Moises Alou said that he wouldn't have been able to catch the Bartman Ball even if the now infamous Cubs fan hadn't caught the ball. Wait...now who are they gonna blame? It looks like the 100 year old Scapegoat never gets a break. From farm fodder to Kerry Wood yesterday, it looks like the same Old Style for the Cubbies.
-The average big league salary is now over 3 million dollars, and somehow there was some sort of revelation that A-Rod makes more than the Marlins. In a sad and horrifying truth to Yankee fans, GM Brian Cashman made this astute point about the Marlins:
"They've won a championship more recently than we have as an organization. So there's many different ways to skin a cat,"
Cue the laugh track and a "ha-ha" from Nelson Muntz.
-Philadelphia has signed Olmedo Saenz off of waivers, perhaps more proof that the team wants to trade Wes Helms for relief pitching. God knows they need it. Someone who immediately comes to mind is Mike Stanton. Even if you just laughed at that notion, he can't do much worse than Tom Gordon, right? (insert truthful sounding reassurance to Phillies fans here)
-The Indians are being very secretive about Victor Martinez's injury, more on it as it becomes available. Kelly Shoppach would receive time in his absence.
-Bartolo Colon will start on Opening Day for the Red Sox in 2008, the AAA Pawtucket Red Sox. The former Cy Young award winner makes his start on Thursday. Where's Nelson?
Tuesday Night Preview
The Yankees will try again to start their season at 7 as Chien-Ming Wang and Roy Halladay go at it in The Bronx. The Mets send Pedro Martinez to the hill in Miami at 7 against the Marlins dynamic 2nd starter Rick VandenHurk. Two 8pm games include John Garlans and the Angels facing Boof Bonser and Minnesota and Colorado and St Louis opening the season for real now as Kyle Lohse faces Kip Wells in a battle from the scrap heap. There are four 10pm games today, including Boston and Oakland renewing their series from Cali as Blanton again faces Matsuzaka. Felix Hernandez takes the hill for Seattle as they play Padilla and Texas, Brandon Backe and Chris Young go in San Diego, and Cain-Lowe is the matchup as the Giants battle the rival Dodgers.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Around The Majors- Opening Day Preview
In just a small taste of what Opening Day could be like, Nationals Park opened up in grand style last night on ESPN as Nats star 3B Ryan Zimmerman homered off of Peter Moylan in the 9th to give Washington a 3-2 walkoff win over the blue clad Braves. Both Odalis Perez and Tim Hudson turned out very good efforts in the contest, but a Paul Lo Duca passed ball allowed the tying run to score in the 9th off of eventual winning pitcher Jon Rauch, who was filling in at closer for a stiff Chad Cordero. But the Zimmerman jack gave the Washington fans something to cheer about for the present and the future of the park.
Today's Matchups
ESPN has the day's first match in Yankee Stadium's final home opener at 1 as New York and Chien Ming Wang hosts Toronto and Roy Halladay. Verlander faces Meche at 1 as well as Detroit takes on the Royals. ESPN2 will broadcast Ernie Banks day in Chicago as they unveil a statue of him outside of Wrigley Field before Carlos Zambrano and the Cubbies battle Ben Sheets and the rival Brewers at 2:20. Webb and Harang face off 10 minutes earlier in Cincinnati. Rays-O's, Nats-Phils, and White Sox-Indians begin at 3:05. ESPN has the west coast covered at 4:10 as the Dodgers and Giants renew their rivalry in both their 50th seasons on the left coast as Brad Penny takes on Barry Zito. Johan Santana has his first real start for the Mets as they head to Miami to face Mark Hendrickson (Florida's ace) and the Marlins at 4pm, and the Cardinals take on the NL champion Rockies at 4:15 as Francis faces Wainwright. Texas faces Seattle at 6:40, and ESPN2 starts off a night twinbill with the Twins and Angels at 7 followed by Oswalt and Peavy from Petco as the Padres host Houston. The Pirates open up in Atlanta at 7pm.
Today's Matchups
ESPN has the day's first match in Yankee Stadium's final home opener at 1 as New York and Chien Ming Wang hosts Toronto and Roy Halladay. Verlander faces Meche at 1 as well as Detroit takes on the Royals. ESPN2 will broadcast Ernie Banks day in Chicago as they unveil a statue of him outside of Wrigley Field before Carlos Zambrano and the Cubbies battle Ben Sheets and the rival Brewers at 2:20. Webb and Harang face off 10 minutes earlier in Cincinnati. Rays-O's, Nats-Phils, and White Sox-Indians begin at 3:05. ESPN has the west coast covered at 4:10 as the Dodgers and Giants renew their rivalry in both their 50th seasons on the left coast as Brad Penny takes on Barry Zito. Johan Santana has his first real start for the Mets as they head to Miami to face Mark Hendrickson (Florida's ace) and the Marlins at 4pm, and the Cardinals take on the NL champion Rockies at 4:15 as Francis faces Wainwright. Texas faces Seattle at 6:40, and ESPN2 starts off a night twinbill with the Twins and Angels at 7 followed by Oswalt and Peavy from Petco as the Padres host Houston. The Pirates open up in Atlanta at 7pm.
SprungOnSports 2008 MLB Predictions
The season is now underway in the United States, and myself along with a pair of my SOS colleagues will break down what they think will happen in the 2008 baseball season.
SprungOnSports
AL (*Wild Card)
East- Yankees, Red Sox*, Blue Jays, Rays, Orioles.
Central- Tigers, Indians, Twins, White Sox, Royals.
West- Angels, Mariners, A's, Rangers.
NL (*Wild Card)
East- Mets, Phillies*, Braves, Nationals, Marlins.
Central- Cubs, Brewers, Reds, Cardinals, Astros, Pirates.
West- Diamondbacks, Rockies, Padres, Dodgers, Giants.
Playoffs LDS- Tigers over Red Sox, Angels over Yankees, Diamondbacks over Phillies, Mets over Cubs.
LCS- Tigers over Angels, Diamondbacks over Mets.
WS- Tigers over Diamondbacks.
AL Awards
MVP- Alex Rodriguez, 3B, NYY
Cy Young- CC Sabathia, SP, CLE
ROY- Evan Longoria, 3B, TB
Manager- Jim Leyland, DET
Comeback Player- Vladimir Guerrero, OF, LAA.
NL Awards
MVP- Matt Holliday, OF, COL
Cy Young- Jake Peavy, SP, SDG
ROY- Kosuke Fukudome, OF, CHC
Manager- Dusty Baker, CIN
Comeback Player- Kerry Wood, RP, CHC
Jake Weintraub AKA Mets57
AL East 1. Red Sox 2. Yankees 3. Rays 4, Blue Jays 5. Orioles
AL Central 1. Tigers 2. Indians (Wild Card) 3. White Sox 4. Twins 5. Royals
AL West 1. Angels 2. A's 3. Mariners 4. Rangers
NL East 1. Mets 2. Braves (Wild Card) 3. Phillies 4. Nationals 5. Marlins
NL Central 1. Brewers 2. Cubs 3. Reds 4. Astros 5. Cardinals 6. Pirates
NL West 1. Diamondbacks 2. Dodgers 3. Rockies 4. Padres 5. Giants
ALDS: Red Sox over Indians, Tigers over Angels.
NLDS: Mets over Brewers, Diamondbacks over Braves.
ALCS: Red Sox over Tigers
NLCS: Mets over Diamondbacks
WS: Mets over Red Sox
Awards
AL MVP: Miguel Cabrera, Tigers
NL MVP: Prince Fielder, Brewers
AL CY Young: Justin Verlander, Tigers
NL CY Young: Johan Santana, Mets
AL ROY: Clay Buchholtz, Red Sox
NL ROY: Joey Votto, Reds
AL Manager: Joe Maddon, Rays
NL Manager: Bobby Cox, Braves
AL Comeback: Carlos Quentin, White Sox
NL Comeback: Andruw Jones, Dodgers
SOS Baseball Analyst Adam Ehrenreich
AL East: 1. Red Sox 2. Yankees 3. Rays 4. Blue Jays 5. Orioles
AL Central: 1.Tigers 2.Indians (Wild Card) 3.White Sox 4.Royals 5.Twins
AL West: 1.Angels 2.Mariners 3.Rangers 4.A's
NL East: 1. Mets 2.Phillies 3.Marlins 4.Braves 5.Nationals
NL Central: 1.Brewers 2.Cubs (Wild Card) 3.Reds 4.Pirates 5. Astros 6.Cardinals
NL West: 1.Dodgers 2.Diamondbacks 3.Rockies 4.Padres 5. Giants
ALDS: Tigers over Angels, Indians over Red Sox.
NLDS: Mets over Cubs, Brewers over Dodgers.
ALCS: Indians over Tigers.
NLCS: Mets over Brewers.
WS: Indians over Mets.
Awards
NL MVP: Prince Fielder, Brewers
NL Cy Young: Johan Santana, Mets
NL ROY: Chase Headley, Padres
Comeback POY: Nick Johnson, Nats
Manager of the Year: Joe Torre, Dodgers
AL MVP: Grady Sizemore, Indians
AL Cy Young: Erik Bedard, Mariners
AL ROY: Daric Barton, A's
Comeback POY: Vernon Wells, Blue Jays
Manager of the Year: John McLaren, Mariners
SprungOnSports
AL (*Wild Card)
East- Yankees, Red Sox*, Blue Jays, Rays, Orioles.
Central- Tigers, Indians, Twins, White Sox, Royals.
West- Angels, Mariners, A's, Rangers.
NL (*Wild Card)
East- Mets, Phillies*, Braves, Nationals, Marlins.
Central- Cubs, Brewers, Reds, Cardinals, Astros, Pirates.
West- Diamondbacks, Rockies, Padres, Dodgers, Giants.
Playoffs LDS- Tigers over Red Sox, Angels over Yankees, Diamondbacks over Phillies, Mets over Cubs.
LCS- Tigers over Angels, Diamondbacks over Mets.
WS- Tigers over Diamondbacks.
AL Awards
MVP- Alex Rodriguez, 3B, NYY
Cy Young- CC Sabathia, SP, CLE
ROY- Evan Longoria, 3B, TB
Manager- Jim Leyland, DET
Comeback Player- Vladimir Guerrero, OF, LAA.
NL Awards
MVP- Matt Holliday, OF, COL
Cy Young- Jake Peavy, SP, SDG
ROY- Kosuke Fukudome, OF, CHC
Manager- Dusty Baker, CIN
Comeback Player- Kerry Wood, RP, CHC
Jake Weintraub AKA Mets57
AL East 1. Red Sox 2. Yankees 3. Rays 4, Blue Jays 5. Orioles
AL Central 1. Tigers 2. Indians (Wild Card) 3. White Sox 4. Twins 5. Royals
AL West 1. Angels 2. A's 3. Mariners 4. Rangers
NL East 1. Mets 2. Braves (Wild Card) 3. Phillies 4. Nationals 5. Marlins
NL Central 1. Brewers 2. Cubs 3. Reds 4. Astros 5. Cardinals 6. Pirates
NL West 1. Diamondbacks 2. Dodgers 3. Rockies 4. Padres 5. Giants
ALDS: Red Sox over Indians, Tigers over Angels.
NLDS: Mets over Brewers, Diamondbacks over Braves.
ALCS: Red Sox over Tigers
NLCS: Mets over Diamondbacks
WS: Mets over Red Sox
Awards
AL MVP: Miguel Cabrera, Tigers
NL MVP: Prince Fielder, Brewers
AL CY Young: Justin Verlander, Tigers
NL CY Young: Johan Santana, Mets
AL ROY: Clay Buchholtz, Red Sox
NL ROY: Joey Votto, Reds
AL Manager: Joe Maddon, Rays
NL Manager: Bobby Cox, Braves
AL Comeback: Carlos Quentin, White Sox
NL Comeback: Andruw Jones, Dodgers
SOS Baseball Analyst Adam Ehrenreich
AL East: 1. Red Sox 2. Yankees 3. Rays 4. Blue Jays 5. Orioles
AL Central: 1.Tigers 2.Indians (Wild Card) 3.White Sox 4.Royals 5.Twins
AL West: 1.Angels 2.Mariners 3.Rangers 4.A's
NL East: 1. Mets 2.Phillies 3.Marlins 4.Braves 5.Nationals
NL Central: 1.Brewers 2.Cubs (Wild Card) 3.Reds 4.Pirates 5. Astros 6.Cardinals
NL West: 1.Dodgers 2.Diamondbacks 3.Rockies 4.Padres 5. Giants
ALDS: Tigers over Angels, Indians over Red Sox.
NLDS: Mets over Cubs, Brewers over Dodgers.
ALCS: Indians over Tigers.
NLCS: Mets over Brewers.
WS: Indians over Mets.
Awards
NL MVP: Prince Fielder, Brewers
NL Cy Young: Johan Santana, Mets
NL ROY: Chase Headley, Padres
Comeback POY: Nick Johnson, Nats
Manager of the Year: Joe Torre, Dodgers
AL MVP: Grady Sizemore, Indians
AL Cy Young: Erik Bedard, Mariners
AL ROY: Daric Barton, A's
Comeback POY: Vernon Wells, Blue Jays
Manager of the Year: John McLaren, Mariners
Saturday, March 29, 2008
College Hoops Saturday Night!
Last night, everything went according to plan except for the Memphis game. I was convinced that the Tigers would fall in the Sweet 16 round, but John Calipari and co proved me dead wrong with a big statement first half putting up 50 against a very quality Michigan State team while holding the Spartans to mjust 20. They showed the pro-Longhorns Houston crowd that they're a forced to be reckoned with and will not go down easy as they've reached their third straight Elite 8. Whether their most talented team this year will get them over the hump to San Antonio. And what has haunted them the entire season was actually an asset for them last night, as they shot 26-35 from the line. If they will be able to do that against Texas they'll be in great shape to go to the Alamo Dome. In his final game as a collegian, Drew Neitzel scored a paltry 6 points and may have been the reason why Tom Izzo's team still isn't dancing. The backcourt of Rose and Douglas-Roberts combined for 52 points, and will be the greatest threats to the Texas pair of DJ Augustin and AJ Abrams. That backcourt was too much for a really good Stanford club that got 26 and 10 from Brook Lopez (who's gonna be a hell of a pro) but very little from anyone else. Augustin had 23 points, 7 dimes, and 5 boards, Daimon James chipped in with 18, and AJ Abrams had 12. That battle between Augustin and Rose, the two best PG's in the land will be so very entertaining and riveting tomorrow. As predicted by me, Davidson had a great 2nd half led by (who else) Stephen Curry in a 73-56 win over the defensively daunting Wisconsin Badgers. They'll have a tough test tomorrow against the deep and well rounded Kansas Jayhawks who once again had a great first half in a balanced 72-57 win over Villanova. Rush, Robinson, and Chalmers each chipped in with solid efforts that were too much for the inexperienced Wildcats.
UCLA's overwhelming balance was also too much for the fantastic trio of Xavier seniors in a 76-57 win over the Muskateers. The Bruins' balance really shined today as Love and Collison each had 19, Westbrook had 17, and Mbah a Moute had 13. But Sean Miller has created a great program in Cincy, and will continue their success in the A-10.
UNC-UL up next from Charlotte, bet on the Heels in what could be the tourney's best match.
UCLA's overwhelming balance was also too much for the fantastic trio of Xavier seniors in a 76-57 win over the Muskateers. The Bruins' balance really shined today as Love and Collison each had 19, Westbrook had 17, and Mbah a Moute had 13. But Sean Miller has created a great program in Cincy, and will continue their success in the A-10.
UNC-UL up next from Charlotte, bet on the Heels in what could be the tourney's best match.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Around The Majors- Wednesday
The second game of the young 2008 baseball season has been completed and a split may be in order in Tokyo. There'll be the news and notes with today's fantasy spin and other items that may arise on this sunny, spring day in New York.
-Rich Harden was the story early this morning in Japan, as his six solid frames stymied the potent Red Sox attack in a 5-1 win for Oakland. Harden struck out nine and walked three in his outing, with many a whiff from the Boston lineup. Red Sox started Jon Lester didn't fare too well, allowing four runs in as many innings. Part-timer Chris Denorfia got the scoring started in the bottom of the 2nd by driving in Bobby Crosby with a single. The game got out of hand for Lester in the 3rd frame as he allowed a three-run jack to newly signed Emil Brown to give Oakland a 4-0 cushion. Harden's only blemish was a solo shot allowed to Manny Ramirez (who probably doesn't want to leave Japan) but then the trio of Casilla, Foulke, and Embree shut the door to preserve the win. Oakland tacked on another run on a Jeff Fiorentino single to give the A's the series split.
-Transactions from just today at this early hour begins with Pittsburgh's acquisition of reliever Tyler Yates from Atlanta for a minor leaguer. The Pirates may even ask Yates to set up closer Matt Capps but the reward is certainly greater than the risk. After a splendid first game, Boston OF Brandon Moss was sent down. Tom Mastny was optioned by Cleveland, Tim Byrdak released by Detroit, and Texas surprisingly sent down both Kameron Loe and Jarrod Saltalamacchia. Salty will try his luck at 1B to make his move to the big club soon. Jack Cassel and Runelvys Hernandez were both sent down by Houston and the Royals acquired reliever Ramon Ramirez from Colorado for a PTBNL.
-Yesterday's moves include the White Sox sending Josh Fields down, perhaps in a last ditch effort to maximize Joe Crede's value before finally jettisoning him most likely to IF starved San Francisco to reunite with Aaron Rowand. Miguel Cabrera finally got his 7 year contract extension to keep him in Detroit until the apocolypse, and San Diego wisely exercized the option on manager Bud Black. Oscar Robles, Craig Stansberry, Chip Ambres, and Shawn Estes were sent down by the Friars. Milwaukee released Claudio Vargas, but he may not be unemployed for long. The New York Post reports that the Mets are very interested in making Vargas their 5th starter as Orlando Hernandez, Mike Pelfrey, and Nelson Figeroa have all failed to convince Willie Randolph that they can pin down the final rotation spot. The St Louis DL filled up rather quickly as Chris Carpenter, Mark Mulder, Joel Piniero, Matt Clement, Tyler Johnson, Josh Kinney, and Juan Encarnacion have all been shelved making the Cards DL far superior than their actual roster. Texas have sent down both Frank Francisco and prospect Eric Hurley.
-The Cubs signed recently released OF Reed Johnson to a 1 year deal, sending down Sam Fuld and Eric Patterson in the process. This transaction is the subject of today's Fantasy Spin with ESPN's Eric Karabell:
-Fantasy Spin- Now that the Cubbies have inked Reed Johnson, adding to a crowded OF many (or maybe just me) have thought that it may cut down Felix Pie's playing time and reduce his value for those that own him in Fantasy. Karabell quickly debunked that theory: "I don't think it cuts into his value at all." Karabell told SprungOnSports. "On the contrary, Pie cannot hit lefties, and Johnson can. The Cubs needed a more versatile fourth outfielder than Matt Murton, and they have Johnson now. I don't see Pie losing value because of this." So let out a sigh of relief Cubs fans and Pie owners, that was today's Fantasy Spin.
-Last, but not least my take on the leaked Jose Canseco-A-Rod accusation story. Even if A-Rod met with this steroids distributor, it doesn't mean that he was given them. Just because I have a conversation with a drug addict or an adulterer doesn't make me one. Not only is it a quintessential case of heresay, Canseco has a huge incentive to embelish or even fabricate his story. Not only does Canseco allegedly say that Rodriguez tried to sleep with his former wife, this source says that Canseco wrote that he hated A-Rod's bleeping guts. Granted most of the things Canseco said in his other book came out to be true, but never was their quite a personal vendetta against an individual like there is in his new book. Just things people have to take into account before jumping to conclusions...
-Rich Harden was the story early this morning in Japan, as his six solid frames stymied the potent Red Sox attack in a 5-1 win for Oakland. Harden struck out nine and walked three in his outing, with many a whiff from the Boston lineup. Red Sox started Jon Lester didn't fare too well, allowing four runs in as many innings. Part-timer Chris Denorfia got the scoring started in the bottom of the 2nd by driving in Bobby Crosby with a single. The game got out of hand for Lester in the 3rd frame as he allowed a three-run jack to newly signed Emil Brown to give Oakland a 4-0 cushion. Harden's only blemish was a solo shot allowed to Manny Ramirez (who probably doesn't want to leave Japan) but then the trio of Casilla, Foulke, and Embree shut the door to preserve the win. Oakland tacked on another run on a Jeff Fiorentino single to give the A's the series split.
-Transactions from just today at this early hour begins with Pittsburgh's acquisition of reliever Tyler Yates from Atlanta for a minor leaguer. The Pirates may even ask Yates to set up closer Matt Capps but the reward is certainly greater than the risk. After a splendid first game, Boston OF Brandon Moss was sent down. Tom Mastny was optioned by Cleveland, Tim Byrdak released by Detroit, and Texas surprisingly sent down both Kameron Loe and Jarrod Saltalamacchia. Salty will try his luck at 1B to make his move to the big club soon. Jack Cassel and Runelvys Hernandez were both sent down by Houston and the Royals acquired reliever Ramon Ramirez from Colorado for a PTBNL.
-Yesterday's moves include the White Sox sending Josh Fields down, perhaps in a last ditch effort to maximize Joe Crede's value before finally jettisoning him most likely to IF starved San Francisco to reunite with Aaron Rowand. Miguel Cabrera finally got his 7 year contract extension to keep him in Detroit until the apocolypse, and San Diego wisely exercized the option on manager Bud Black. Oscar Robles, Craig Stansberry, Chip Ambres, and Shawn Estes were sent down by the Friars. Milwaukee released Claudio Vargas, but he may not be unemployed for long. The New York Post reports that the Mets are very interested in making Vargas their 5th starter as Orlando Hernandez, Mike Pelfrey, and Nelson Figeroa have all failed to convince Willie Randolph that they can pin down the final rotation spot. The St Louis DL filled up rather quickly as Chris Carpenter, Mark Mulder, Joel Piniero, Matt Clement, Tyler Johnson, Josh Kinney, and Juan Encarnacion have all been shelved making the Cards DL far superior than their actual roster. Texas have sent down both Frank Francisco and prospect Eric Hurley.
-The Cubs signed recently released OF Reed Johnson to a 1 year deal, sending down Sam Fuld and Eric Patterson in the process. This transaction is the subject of today's Fantasy Spin with ESPN's Eric Karabell:
-Fantasy Spin- Now that the Cubbies have inked Reed Johnson, adding to a crowded OF many (or maybe just me) have thought that it may cut down Felix Pie's playing time and reduce his value for those that own him in Fantasy. Karabell quickly debunked that theory: "I don't think it cuts into his value at all." Karabell told SprungOnSports. "On the contrary, Pie cannot hit lefties, and Johnson can. The Cubs needed a more versatile fourth outfielder than Matt Murton, and they have Johnson now. I don't see Pie losing value because of this." So let out a sigh of relief Cubs fans and Pie owners, that was today's Fantasy Spin.
-Last, but not least my take on the leaked Jose Canseco-A-Rod accusation story. Even if A-Rod met with this steroids distributor, it doesn't mean that he was given them. Just because I have a conversation with a drug addict or an adulterer doesn't make me one. Not only is it a quintessential case of heresay, Canseco has a huge incentive to embelish or even fabricate his story. Not only does Canseco allegedly say that Rodriguez tried to sleep with his former wife, this source says that Canseco wrote that he hated A-Rod's bleeping guts. Granted most of the things Canseco said in his other book came out to be true, but never was their quite a personal vendetta against an individual like there is in his new book. Just things people have to take into account before jumping to conclusions...
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