A little late this week, but still before first kickoff which is all that matters. I had a pretty rough week last week.
I call Week 3 "The Week of Indecision". You start to question everything you ever thought about football right about now. Anyway, here we go. I promise to have write-ups again next week.
San Diego 34, GB 21
New England 41, Buffalo 27
Philly 21, Detroit 17
St. Louis 28, TB 21
Indy 31, Houston 28
Minnesota 24, KC 21
Miami 16, NYJ 13
SF 21, Pittsburgh 20
Baltimore 28, Arizona 9
Denver 17, Jacksonville 10
Cleveland 31, Oakland 27
Cincinatti 35, Seattle 6
Carolina 30, Atlanta 17
Washington 24, NYG 14
Chciago 13, Dallas 10
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Saturday, September 15, 2007
There's Some New Faces on the O's
I missed a few O's games this week because I started a new job and had some family stuff going on. I do see, however, that my O's have won two games in a row. They've won thanks to a good outing by their starting pitcher, some key hits, and a solid effort from their bullpen. I can only assume that the same formula equaled similar results in the games that I missed.
After some research, it appears this was NOT the case.
But there are some new guys wearing the orange and black these days. Let's meet them.
Tike Redman - the former Pirate castoff (my God, how low have we sunk?) has been lighting it up in limited duty for the O's. The O's signed him in May from the indy leagues. He's now 30 years old. I don't get it.
Scott Moore - the O's acquired Moore from the Cubs in the deal that sent Steve Trachsel to Chicago. Moore is still young at 23 and provides a left handed bat off the bench. He can play
third or first. Too bad he can't hit.
Victor Zambrano - the guy who was traded for Scott Kazmir. He was signed out of the indy leagues after being released by Toronto earlier this year. Really, what was the point of signing this guy?
Radhames Liz - Liz is young, 23, with a fastball that can reach 100 mph. He's got some good stuff, but has some control issues. When Mazzone came to the birds, my litmus test for him was going to be Daniel Cabrera. Cabrera isn't any better than before Mazzone got here. I don't blame Leo for that, but I see a lot of similarities between Liz and Cabrera. Also like Cabrera, Liz has been getting lit up.
Rocky Cherry - also acquired in the Trachsel deal, Cherry is a non-descript bullpen guy who can't be any worse than the guys already out there.
Fernando Cabrera - ditto, but signed as a minor league free agent
Jon Leicester - had a decent start against LAAACotUSoA, but he's already 28 and has virtually no big-league experience. Don't see much reason to have signed this guy. AAA filler.
Victor Santos - another 30 year old cast-off RP who the O's have decided to put in the rotation.
There you have it. Not a lot to like about this crew.
After some research, it appears this was NOT the case.
But there are some new guys wearing the orange and black these days. Let's meet them.
Tike Redman - the former Pirate castoff (my God, how low have we sunk?) has been lighting it up in limited duty for the O's. The O's signed him in May from the indy leagues. He's now 30 years old. I don't get it.
Scott Moore - the O's acquired Moore from the Cubs in the deal that sent Steve Trachsel to Chicago. Moore is still young at 23 and provides a left handed bat off the bench. He can play
third or first. Too bad he can't hit.
Victor Zambrano - the guy who was traded for Scott Kazmir. He was signed out of the indy leagues after being released by Toronto earlier this year. Really, what was the point of signing this guy?
Radhames Liz - Liz is young, 23, with a fastball that can reach 100 mph. He's got some good stuff, but has some control issues. When Mazzone came to the birds, my litmus test for him was going to be Daniel Cabrera. Cabrera isn't any better than before Mazzone got here. I don't blame Leo for that, but I see a lot of similarities between Liz and Cabrera. Also like Cabrera, Liz has been getting lit up.
Rocky Cherry - also acquired in the Trachsel deal, Cherry is a non-descript bullpen guy who can't be any worse than the guys already out there.
Fernando Cabrera - ditto, but signed as a minor league free agent
Jon Leicester - had a decent start against LAAACotUSoA, but he's already 28 and has virtually no big-league experience. Don't see much reason to have signed this guy. AAA filler.
Victor Santos - another 30 year old cast-off RP who the O's have decided to put in the rotation.
There you have it. Not a lot to like about this crew.
NFL Predictions: Week 2
Week 2. Whenever I think about what week 1 means, I think back to when Buffalo
beat New England 34-0 after Lawyer Milloy left the Pats. And then Buffalo was very bad, and the Patriots went to the Super Bowl. Week 1 is basically the 5th preseason game for a lot of teams so far as using it to determine future success. With that in mind, here's week 2 predictions.
Cincinatti @ Cleveland
How does Romeo Cremmel keep his job? He took over a bad team and made them worse. This year's Browns are going to make people long for Tim Couch and Kelly Holcomb. After their defense made Big Ben look like Kurt Warner circa 1999, they've decided to let Charlie Frye go. Maybe the addition of Ken Dorsey holding a clipboard will get their secondary on track. So, now Derek Anderson is starting for the Browns. Derek Anderson played a little bit last year, and actually pretty well, so that's got me wondering why they make the change at halftime in week 1. I'm guessing it was a symbolic move for Brady Quinn's psyche, but he's got to know that he's walking into a disaster here. This has to be one of the worst possible scenarios for a rookie QB since David Carr.
... and the Bengals are pretty good. For a lesson on how to bring a QB into the NFL, the Browns should look up Carson Palmer.
Bengals 38-10
Buffalo @ Pittsburgh
No real test for an average Pittsburgh team. I think it's great that the Steelers are going to start the year 2-0 and all the Steeler fans I know are going to get all excited. Seeing them mope around for the next couple months after all their hopes are destroyed is going to fill me with Christmas cheer.
Steelers 28-13
New Orleans @ Tampa Bay
I really don't like Tampa Bay. It seems like they've got decent talent. Cadillac Williams, Joey Galloway, Michael Clayton. Jeff Garcia has been underrated for a long time. TO said he was gay. That isn't true and doesn't really matter if he is, but that's all a lot of people think about when they hear his name. It seems like he's been around forever and he's produced everywhere, even in Cleveland. Still, they should be better but than what they are. Seattle shut them down last week. New Orleans was embarassed in the second half last week against Indy, but there's no shame in that. They should bounce back with a convincing win.
New Orleans 24-17
Houston @ Carolina
This is a tough one. A game like this is where having a few games under their belts would make this a lot easier for me. But I don't do this because it's easy. I do it for a huge financial gain. Houston beat Kansas City last week pretty easily. Carolina beat my dark horse team, the Rams. I didn't see the Texans game, but apparently Mario Williams has been playing pretty well. This means now that the Texans picking him over Reggie Bush only makes them look pretty stupid instead of complete f'in idiots. Carolina? They're okay. I have them pegged as one of the better teams to not make the playoffs this year. Their home-field advantage gives them the edge in a close game.
Carolina 27-24
Atlanta @ Jacksonville
I'm a dog lover, but I don't hate Mike Vick. He made a mistake. People make mistakes and make poor choices all the time in their lives. Most of these instances don't end up with you going to federal prison, but I can see how it could happen. I really don't think he's that bad of a guy, either. I don't know the exact circumstances more than anyone who has read the same stories I have, but to make it out of the place where he grew up, he had to feel enormous pressure to show that he was still one of the guys. To expect a guy who made it like Vick did to forget about where he came from and all his old friends he grew up with isn't fair to anyone. I'm sure they played a big part in Vick's decision process and I bet he would have felt some repercussions if he didn't go along with some of the things he did. And not just being labeled a "sell out". But, really, from a personal standpoint, what would be better: keeping people close to you
that you've known your whole life, or having people around that may just be hanging around
because you're Michael Vick? Probably a tough decision for him. My name's not Arthur Blank, though.
Even when he was at the top of his game, I didn't think Vick was that great of a quarterback. Sure, he was an amazing athlete, but his lack of throwing accuracy and a receiving corps with butter fingers made their offense one-dimensional. It was a hell of a dimension, but they weren't going to win any championships.
No one knows what he's going to be like when he gets out of prison, but he's not going to be the same. He's going to play and he'll deserve to play. Anybody who does his time and pays his dues deserves a shot. That's why we have a penal system.
Either way, the Falcons are going to be bad this year. Jacksonville is pretty good. I don't care if they lost to Tennessee last week.
Jags 27-13
Indianapolis @ Tennessee
Is it just me or is it whenever Tennesse wins under Vince Young, it's either by 3 or less points and coming from behind? This just isn't a sign of a very good football team. I think they're crap. And I think the reason that they're crap is because they spend 3 quarters trying to play one style of football, and when the going gets tough they switch up to a style that favors Young's talents and the talents of the rest of their offense. Taking a 5 step drop and finding the open receiver is apparently not one of Vince's strong suits. They've got two VERY good running backs and a decent defense and they should be better than what they play. Regardless, they're playing Indy this week. Indy has their weaknesses and this could be a close game, but Indy will win and they won't lose until they play San Diego. This sounds familiar.
Indy 38-24
San Francisco @ St. Louis
Everybody who reads this blog, probably knows of my healthy obsession with Stephen Jackson. I guess the Rams are having some O-line issues but I don't think that will stop Jackson from getting 200 yards from scrimmage this week. San Francisco beat Arizona last week which tells us not much. This will be a close game. Besides Jackson, the rest of the Rams offense will struggle.
Rams 17-13
Green Bay @ Giants
The Giants are favored to win this game. As I write this, Eli is still questionable. I'm really starting to not like Favre that much. He's been overrated for a few years now. He makes a ton of mistakes. Enough about Favre, I don't see the Giants winning this game with their #2 QB or a hurting Eli, even in Jersey. GB wins and goes to 2-0.
The Pack 21-14
Seattle @ Arizona
Boring. If I have to watch this game because it's the only game at 4, I'm going to be seriously pissed.
Hawks 28-10
Minnesota @ Detroit
I like Minnesota. They're going to surprise a lot of people this year. I just noticed Detroit is favored by 3. No way. There's some bright spots on Detroit's roster, but Minnesota is a playoff team and Detroit likes losing.
Minnesota 27-21
Dallas @ Miami
From a fan's perspective, I hate Dallas so much. So, so very much. Miami couldn't run the ball for nothing last week against the Skins, but Trent Green played pretty well. I expect Miami to change up their game plan a bit and be a little more successful running the ball. Dallas lit up the Giants woeful defense for 45 last week. Miami's defense is a lot better than New York's though and here is where Romo starts to struggle. 4 INT's for Romo.
Miami 17-10
Jets @ Baltimore
Turnovers will kill ya, especially at either end of the field. A lot of turnovers in Week 1 doesn't mean you're a bad team, though. Causing and committing turnovers isn't just luck. It can be taught and learned. When you've
got a veteran quarterback who knows what he's doing, this isn't going to happen every week. McNair will bounce back. Kellen Clemens is being reported as the starting QB for the Jets. I'm not a big fan of guys in their first starts for bad teams.
Ravens 31-7
Oakland @ Denver
Oakland is horrible and I'm a little tired of hearing so much news about them. Who cares and what difference does it make?
Denver 28-14
Kansas City @ Chicago
I may have underestimated the Bears' defense. They were pretty good last week against San Diego and Kansas City is no San Diego. The Bears will be pissed off this week, but their offense is Gross, man. If I was a Bears fan, I would really want Griese starting. He isn't great, but he's better than Rex. But, they'll win. They're favored by 12 which is way too much.
Bears 14-10
San Diego @ New England
This is going to be a great game. And I really like Norv Turner. He got a bad deal here in Washington and somehow got a label as a guy who is just too nice to his players. This is the NFL. You don't have to be a jerk. Belichick was fined 500 grand by the NFL for something I bet most of the teams in the NFL do. If they don't, they're cheating themselves and not the game. Way too harsh and this is Roger Goodell trying to appear like a tough guy once again. On the field, close. San Diego won a hard-fought game against the Bears and the Pats beat the cupcake Jets. The game's in New England. Chargers pull it out.
Chargers 31-27
Washington @ Philadelphia
Philly's favored by 6.5. That's crazy. True, the Eagles should have beaten Green Bay last week. That would mean something if GB was any good. Skins are struggling and I don't have my finger on the pulse of this team yet. I think they're going to beat Philly, though. My personal feelings get in the way of some of my Skins picks, though, that's why I never bet on them.
Skins 21-17
beat New England 34-0 after Lawyer Milloy left the Pats. And then Buffalo was very bad, and the Patriots went to the Super Bowl. Week 1 is basically the 5th preseason game for a lot of teams so far as using it to determine future success. With that in mind, here's week 2 predictions.
Cincinatti @ Cleveland
How does Romeo Cremmel keep his job? He took over a bad team and made them worse. This year's Browns are going to make people long for Tim Couch and Kelly Holcomb. After their defense made Big Ben look like Kurt Warner circa 1999, they've decided to let Charlie Frye go. Maybe the addition of Ken Dorsey holding a clipboard will get their secondary on track. So, now Derek Anderson is starting for the Browns. Derek Anderson played a little bit last year, and actually pretty well, so that's got me wondering why they make the change at halftime in week 1. I'm guessing it was a symbolic move for Brady Quinn's psyche, but he's got to know that he's walking into a disaster here. This has to be one of the worst possible scenarios for a rookie QB since David Carr.
... and the Bengals are pretty good. For a lesson on how to bring a QB into the NFL, the Browns should look up Carson Palmer.
Bengals 38-10
Buffalo @ Pittsburgh
No real test for an average Pittsburgh team. I think it's great that the Steelers are going to start the year 2-0 and all the Steeler fans I know are going to get all excited. Seeing them mope around for the next couple months after all their hopes are destroyed is going to fill me with Christmas cheer.
Steelers 28-13
New Orleans @ Tampa Bay
I really don't like Tampa Bay. It seems like they've got decent talent. Cadillac Williams, Joey Galloway, Michael Clayton. Jeff Garcia has been underrated for a long time. TO said he was gay. That isn't true and doesn't really matter if he is, but that's all a lot of people think about when they hear his name. It seems like he's been around forever and he's produced everywhere, even in Cleveland. Still, they should be better but than what they are. Seattle shut them down last week. New Orleans was embarassed in the second half last week against Indy, but there's no shame in that. They should bounce back with a convincing win.
New Orleans 24-17
Houston @ Carolina
This is a tough one. A game like this is where having a few games under their belts would make this a lot easier for me. But I don't do this because it's easy. I do it for a huge financial gain. Houston beat Kansas City last week pretty easily. Carolina beat my dark horse team, the Rams. I didn't see the Texans game, but apparently Mario Williams has been playing pretty well. This means now that the Texans picking him over Reggie Bush only makes them look pretty stupid instead of complete f'in idiots. Carolina? They're okay. I have them pegged as one of the better teams to not make the playoffs this year. Their home-field advantage gives them the edge in a close game.
Carolina 27-24
Atlanta @ Jacksonville
I'm a dog lover, but I don't hate Mike Vick. He made a mistake. People make mistakes and make poor choices all the time in their lives. Most of these instances don't end up with you going to federal prison, but I can see how it could happen. I really don't think he's that bad of a guy, either. I don't know the exact circumstances more than anyone who has read the same stories I have, but to make it out of the place where he grew up, he had to feel enormous pressure to show that he was still one of the guys. To expect a guy who made it like Vick did to forget about where he came from and all his old friends he grew up with isn't fair to anyone. I'm sure they played a big part in Vick's decision process and I bet he would have felt some repercussions if he didn't go along with some of the things he did. And not just being labeled a "sell out". But, really, from a personal standpoint, what would be better: keeping people close to you
that you've known your whole life, or having people around that may just be hanging around
because you're Michael Vick? Probably a tough decision for him. My name's not Arthur Blank, though.
Even when he was at the top of his game, I didn't think Vick was that great of a quarterback. Sure, he was an amazing athlete, but his lack of throwing accuracy and a receiving corps with butter fingers made their offense one-dimensional. It was a hell of a dimension, but they weren't going to win any championships.
No one knows what he's going to be like when he gets out of prison, but he's not going to be the same. He's going to play and he'll deserve to play. Anybody who does his time and pays his dues deserves a shot. That's why we have a penal system.
Either way, the Falcons are going to be bad this year. Jacksonville is pretty good. I don't care if they lost to Tennessee last week.
Jags 27-13
Indianapolis @ Tennessee
Is it just me or is it whenever Tennesse wins under Vince Young, it's either by 3 or less points and coming from behind? This just isn't a sign of a very good football team. I think they're crap. And I think the reason that they're crap is because they spend 3 quarters trying to play one style of football, and when the going gets tough they switch up to a style that favors Young's talents and the talents of the rest of their offense. Taking a 5 step drop and finding the open receiver is apparently not one of Vince's strong suits. They've got two VERY good running backs and a decent defense and they should be better than what they play. Regardless, they're playing Indy this week. Indy has their weaknesses and this could be a close game, but Indy will win and they won't lose until they play San Diego. This sounds familiar.
Indy 38-24
San Francisco @ St. Louis
Everybody who reads this blog, probably knows of my healthy obsession with Stephen Jackson. I guess the Rams are having some O-line issues but I don't think that will stop Jackson from getting 200 yards from scrimmage this week. San Francisco beat Arizona last week which tells us not much. This will be a close game. Besides Jackson, the rest of the Rams offense will struggle.
Rams 17-13
Green Bay @ Giants
The Giants are favored to win this game. As I write this, Eli is still questionable. I'm really starting to not like Favre that much. He's been overrated for a few years now. He makes a ton of mistakes. Enough about Favre, I don't see the Giants winning this game with their #2 QB or a hurting Eli, even in Jersey. GB wins and goes to 2-0.
The Pack 21-14
Seattle @ Arizona
Boring. If I have to watch this game because it's the only game at 4, I'm going to be seriously pissed.
Hawks 28-10
Minnesota @ Detroit
I like Minnesota. They're going to surprise a lot of people this year. I just noticed Detroit is favored by 3. No way. There's some bright spots on Detroit's roster, but Minnesota is a playoff team and Detroit likes losing.
Minnesota 27-21
Dallas @ Miami
From a fan's perspective, I hate Dallas so much. So, so very much. Miami couldn't run the ball for nothing last week against the Skins, but Trent Green played pretty well. I expect Miami to change up their game plan a bit and be a little more successful running the ball. Dallas lit up the Giants woeful defense for 45 last week. Miami's defense is a lot better than New York's though and here is where Romo starts to struggle. 4 INT's for Romo.
Miami 17-10
Jets @ Baltimore
Turnovers will kill ya, especially at either end of the field. A lot of turnovers in Week 1 doesn't mean you're a bad team, though. Causing and committing turnovers isn't just luck. It can be taught and learned. When you've
got a veteran quarterback who knows what he's doing, this isn't going to happen every week. McNair will bounce back. Kellen Clemens is being reported as the starting QB for the Jets. I'm not a big fan of guys in their first starts for bad teams.
Ravens 31-7
Oakland @ Denver
Oakland is horrible and I'm a little tired of hearing so much news about them. Who cares and what difference does it make?
Denver 28-14
Kansas City @ Chicago
I may have underestimated the Bears' defense. They were pretty good last week against San Diego and Kansas City is no San Diego. The Bears will be pissed off this week, but their offense is Gross, man. If I was a Bears fan, I would really want Griese starting. He isn't great, but he's better than Rex. But, they'll win. They're favored by 12 which is way too much.
Bears 14-10
San Diego @ New England
This is going to be a great game. And I really like Norv Turner. He got a bad deal here in Washington and somehow got a label as a guy who is just too nice to his players. This is the NFL. You don't have to be a jerk. Belichick was fined 500 grand by the NFL for something I bet most of the teams in the NFL do. If they don't, they're cheating themselves and not the game. Way too harsh and this is Roger Goodell trying to appear like a tough guy once again. On the field, close. San Diego won a hard-fought game against the Bears and the Pats beat the cupcake Jets. The game's in New England. Chargers pull it out.
Chargers 31-27
Washington @ Philadelphia
Philly's favored by 6.5. That's crazy. True, the Eagles should have beaten Green Bay last week. That would mean something if GB was any good. Skins are struggling and I don't have my finger on the pulse of this team yet. I think they're going to beat Philly, though. My personal feelings get in the way of some of my Skins picks, though, that's why I never bet on them.
Skins 21-17
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Song of the Week #2
If there's one talent I wish I had (other than controlling all living beings with my mind, being able to fly, and X-Ray vision) it would be to be able to write a song and then pick up a guitar and have it sound pretty good. This week's artist is a singer/songwriter from Minnesota.
Mason Jennings
His voice reminds me of a less wheezy Bob Dylan. Mason's debut album came out in 1998 and he's done about a record every two years. He's been asked to write a song for Shrek 2 (it didn't make the soundtrack), performed on-stage with Jack Johnson, and has now signed on with a major label, but still walks around in relative obscurity. He's slated to have two Bob Dylan songs he re-recorded on a movie soundtrack this fall, so maybe that will help him get some more attention. He tours nationally and usually sells out the super-small venues, which is probably the best way to see him anyway. Like the other guys, he's got some vids on youtube. This song is off his Century Spring album.
Mason Jennings - Sorry Signs on Cash Machines
Mason Jennings
His voice reminds me of a less wheezy Bob Dylan. Mason's debut album came out in 1998 and he's done about a record every two years. He's been asked to write a song for Shrek 2 (it didn't make the soundtrack), performed on-stage with Jack Johnson, and has now signed on with a major label, but still walks around in relative obscurity. He's slated to have two Bob Dylan songs he re-recorded on a movie soundtrack this fall, so maybe that will help him get some more attention. He tours nationally and usually sells out the super-small venues, which is probably the best way to see him anyway. Like the other guys, he's got some vids on youtube. This song is off his Century Spring album.
Mason Jennings - Sorry Signs on Cash Machines
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Week 1 Prediction Recap
I pulled out a very impressive (for Week 1) 10-5. Luckily for you guys, I'm not content with this record and I feel like I have something to prove.
I ain't no Randy Moss.
I ain't no Randy Moss.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
NFL Season Predictions
I suppose it's about time I made my season predictions.
NFC
East: Washington Redskins
Central: Minnesota Vikings
South: New Orleans Saints
West: St. Louis Rams
WC: New York Giants
WC: Seattle Seahawks
NFC Championship: Rams over Saints
AFC
East: New England Patriots
Central: Cincinatti Bengals
South: Indianapolis Colts
West: San Diego Chargers
WC: Baltimore Ravens
WC: Kansas City Chiefs
AFC Championship: Pats over Bengals
Super Bowl: Pats over Rams
NFC
East: Washington Redskins
Central: Minnesota Vikings
South: New Orleans Saints
West: St. Louis Rams
WC: New York Giants
WC: Seattle Seahawks
NFC Championship: Rams over Saints
AFC
East: New England Patriots
Central: Cincinatti Bengals
South: Indianapolis Colts
West: San Diego Chargers
WC: Baltimore Ravens
WC: Kansas City Chiefs
AFC Championship: Pats over Bengals
Super Bowl: Pats over Rams
Second Year Quarterback Theory
Any quarterback who played any amount of significant time in his rookie season and performed average or better, will completely suck butt his second year.
That means you, Vince Young, Jay Cutler, and Tony Romo.
That means you, Vince Young, Jay Cutler, and Tony Romo.
NFL Predictions: Week 1
Week 1 is predictably unpredictable but I'll give it a shot.
Eagles @ Packers
Donovan McNabb sets out on his road to redemption by taking on a Packers team led by the aging...er, I mean, ageless Brett Favre at Lambeau. Brett should have hung them up a couple years ago and he's set the organization back by keeping the front office on the fence about hs plans. But, he's Brett Favre, aka "White Steve McNair", so he gets a pass. The Eagles are traditionally strong during the early part of the season which coincides with being prior to McNabb and Brian Westbrook suffering season ending injuries.
Eagles 28-10
Chiefs @ Texans
Matt Schaub, who the Falcons could probably use right now, makes his Texan debut against a Chiefs team that doesn't seem to know who they're going to suit up year to year. The core of KC's team is getting old (even Damon Huard isn't as young as you think), but will probably still be productive. The Texans still won't be able to block anybody.
Chiefs 34-7
Broncos @ Bills
I usually don't like second year quarterbacks and I'm not going to make an exception for Jay Cutler. The good thing is he's got a running game that could win games if they just direct snapped to a running back every play. The Bills are boring and there's really no reason to watch them or this game. JP Losman isn't NFL #1 material.
Broncos 17-7
Steelers @ Browns
This is a grudge match between two AFC North teams who I think are both going to be crap. Everybody seemed to jump on Big Ben's back after the Super Bowl win when I thought he did less that year to help Pittsburgh win than Trent Dilfer did in Baltimore. The usual answer to that is that he is there to just not lose games. Maybe that's true when you have a monster defense and a smash mouth running game. Even so, that doesn't make Ben any good. They've still got a good running game, but their defense isn't what it used to be and will take a step backward this year. Ultimately, they'll have enough to beat Cleveland and lame duck QB Charlie Frye.
Steelers 14-10
Panthers @ Rams
I'm expecting this to be an offensive showcase. Stephen Jackson is an absolute beast with speed and he's probably the toughest guy to tackle in the NFL. He can catch balls out of the backfield, he can run outside, he can bust it up the middle. Unfortunately, he chooses not to play defense, but he'd make a Wilbur Marshall type linebacker. Or a Chuck Cecil safety. Man, I miss Chuck Cecil. Marc Bulger can play a little and they've still got some stellar wideouts. I'm hoping their defense is going to be improved. THE RAMS ARE GOING TO THE SUPER BOWL! Carolina is a mystery to me and I don't have a strong feeling about them. My gut's telling me they're going to be disappointing. THE RAMS ARE GOING TO THE SUPER BOWL!!!
Rams 38-31
Falcons @ Vikings
Minnesota has got a serious run-stopping defense and with Warrick Dunn running the ball, I don't see Atlanta being very successful. This is going to put a lot of pressure on Joey Harrington. I'm sure we all remember that Joey is not very good in these situations. He can have 10 receivers drafted in the top 3 overall and it's not going to make a difference. Tarvaris Jackson is just a place holder at QB for Minnesota. I don't see him being more than a number 2 guy for most of his career. I'm thinking Babe Laufenberg here. Chester Taylor and Adrian Peterson make an interesting combination in the backfield. I think the Falcons are going to lay down this year. It's a gross understatement to say Bobby Petrino has his hands full. If he can make it through the year with the players still listening to him when he talks, never mind winning games, consider it a success.
Vikings 24-10
Pats @ Jets
Chad Pennington is not very good. Tom Brady is very good. I don't see Randy Moss being a problem in New England. I doubt anything will ever even have to be said to him. Before he arrived, he knew what he was getting in to when he showed up to camp. Keep my mouth shut and win, or run my mouth and be sent home. He's at the point where he's going to be considered a guy who never lived up to his potential because of attitude problems and he'll try to avoid that label from here on out. New England continue their winning ways against a Jets team sure to be disappointed this year. Chad is going downhill.
Pats 27-9
Dolphins @ Redskins
Trent Green leads the new look Dolphins in to FedEx to take on my beloved Redskins. I usually find a way to make it to a lot of Skins games but not tomorrow, but that has nothing to do with my prediction. The Skins, regadless of their final record, usually squeak out a win on Opening Day. I'm hoping the Redskins don't cite Jason Campbell's (damn my second year quarterback theory!) inexperience as a reason to throw two-yard hitches and WR screens out the wazoo as has been their recent history. Follow that up with a draw play on 3rd and long which is never successful because you've just shown the opposition you have no confidence in your quarterback by throwing 2-yard hitches and WR screens all game. Luckily for us, the Skins have a punishing running game and two All-Pro caliber running backs in Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts. Their defense, which hasn't tackled anyone since an intra-squad scrimmage in 2004 training camp, should be better this year.
Skins 17-14
Titans @ Jags
So, David Garrard is starting for the Jags, huh? Wow, that'll make a world of difference. Hopefully you sense my sarcasm. You could have Muggsy Bogues handing off to their running backs and it would not make a difference. Jack Del Rio shouldn't be looking for a lot out of their quarterback anyway. Not saying David Garrard doesn't have talent, he does. I just don't think quarterback should play a big part in the Jags' philosophy. Find a couple serviceable journeymen and they're interchangeable. Some guys make careers out of this (Dilfer, Brad Johnson, I see Chris Simms going this way). Vince Young rubs me the wrong way. Not personally (that's for you, dh, if you read this). I've yet to see an offense ran around a double-threat quarterback be successful. A double-threat quarterback is an asset if the quarterback running is a third or fourth option and the QB can throw the ball accurately and accurately while on the move. I've yet to see this from Vince Young and I have my doubts that he'll learn. He'd have a lot more success if Frank Wycheck was still there.
Jags 21-10
Bears @ Chargers
I see the Bears going 8-8 this year even in their mediocre division. They're no match for San Diego.
Chargers 42-10
Buccaneers @ Seahawks
I find the Seahawks very boring. Shaun Alexander is starting his decline and that'll expose Matt Hasselbeck even more. I don't see anything truly outstanding here. They're perennial contenders, but that should tell you more about the NFC than about Seattle. Jon Gruden's Chucky-face isn't funny anymore. It's even less funny when your team sucks.
Seahawks 27-17
Lions @ Raiders
Why this isn't the Game of the Week I'll never know. I like Jon Kitna though, and Detroit's skill position players could match up well with any team. Kitna's one of those guys that if you replayed his career and he had a little better luck and was in better situations, might be headed to the Hall of Fame. Maybe. He's got a lot of weapons, but they have a habit of losing in Detroit, which shouldn't be ignored. Keeping Matt Millen in charge tells me the owners find losing acceptable and that attitude flows throughout the organization. The Raiders would probably struggle in the Pac-10.
Lions 21-14
Giants @ cowboys
Phil Simms and a coked-up Lawrence Taylor lead the Giants against Troy Aikman, Michael Irvin, and Emmitt Smith, and the rest of the cowboys in this fierce NFC match-up. My, how times have changed. Squeaky clean Eli caught a little slack from Tiki about his leadership skills. Kind of like when that idiot kicker talked about his brother. Eli handled it well. There should be rule that if you're a kicker or named Tiki, you can't talk about other people. Regardless, Eli should have a breakout year this year. Tony Romo will fall victim to my second year quarterback theory. He's not any good anyway. And Wade Phillips laid-back attitude may go over well with TO and the rest of the cowboys, but it won't translate into wins. And that doesn't translate into players keeping their mouths shut about the coach when talking to the media. It will be a season spawned from hell for the cowboys and their fans.
Giants 24-0
Ravens @ Bengals
The Ravens offense is an enigma. They did well getting rid of Jamal Lewis (Beware Cleveland), and I like McGahee. But, for some reason, there are days when they just can't get anything done offensively. They have a decent line, a decent quarterback, a GREAT tight end, and receivers with some talent. I see this as one of those days. The Ravens are a good team, and they'll make the playoffs, but they're going to lose this one.
Bengals 16-7
Cardinals @ 49ers
Remember Neil Lomax and Stump Mitchell and the heyday of the Cards? Well, they weren't that good then, either. Every year I think the Cardinals are going to surprise everyone and make it to the playoffs. Every year, I'm disappointed. Not this year, Arizona!!! The Niners surprised some people last year. Alex Smith is good and Vernon Davis. They have some quality players on defense. But, they're still average and average can beat Arizona.
Niners 24-20
Eagles @ Packers
Donovan McNabb sets out on his road to redemption by taking on a Packers team led by the aging...er, I mean, ageless Brett Favre at Lambeau. Brett should have hung them up a couple years ago and he's set the organization back by keeping the front office on the fence about hs plans. But, he's Brett Favre, aka "White Steve McNair", so he gets a pass. The Eagles are traditionally strong during the early part of the season which coincides with being prior to McNabb and Brian Westbrook suffering season ending injuries.
Eagles 28-10
Chiefs @ Texans
Matt Schaub, who the Falcons could probably use right now, makes his Texan debut against a Chiefs team that doesn't seem to know who they're going to suit up year to year. The core of KC's team is getting old (even Damon Huard isn't as young as you think), but will probably still be productive. The Texans still won't be able to block anybody.
Chiefs 34-7
Broncos @ Bills
I usually don't like second year quarterbacks and I'm not going to make an exception for Jay Cutler. The good thing is he's got a running game that could win games if they just direct snapped to a running back every play. The Bills are boring and there's really no reason to watch them or this game. JP Losman isn't NFL #1 material.
Broncos 17-7
Steelers @ Browns
This is a grudge match between two AFC North teams who I think are both going to be crap. Everybody seemed to jump on Big Ben's back after the Super Bowl win when I thought he did less that year to help Pittsburgh win than Trent Dilfer did in Baltimore. The usual answer to that is that he is there to just not lose games. Maybe that's true when you have a monster defense and a smash mouth running game. Even so, that doesn't make Ben any good. They've still got a good running game, but their defense isn't what it used to be and will take a step backward this year. Ultimately, they'll have enough to beat Cleveland and lame duck QB Charlie Frye.
Steelers 14-10
Panthers @ Rams
I'm expecting this to be an offensive showcase. Stephen Jackson is an absolute beast with speed and he's probably the toughest guy to tackle in the NFL. He can catch balls out of the backfield, he can run outside, he can bust it up the middle. Unfortunately, he chooses not to play defense, but he'd make a Wilbur Marshall type linebacker. Or a Chuck Cecil safety. Man, I miss Chuck Cecil. Marc Bulger can play a little and they've still got some stellar wideouts. I'm hoping their defense is going to be improved. THE RAMS ARE GOING TO THE SUPER BOWL! Carolina is a mystery to me and I don't have a strong feeling about them. My gut's telling me they're going to be disappointing. THE RAMS ARE GOING TO THE SUPER BOWL!!!
Rams 38-31
Falcons @ Vikings
Minnesota has got a serious run-stopping defense and with Warrick Dunn running the ball, I don't see Atlanta being very successful. This is going to put a lot of pressure on Joey Harrington. I'm sure we all remember that Joey is not very good in these situations. He can have 10 receivers drafted in the top 3 overall and it's not going to make a difference. Tarvaris Jackson is just a place holder at QB for Minnesota. I don't see him being more than a number 2 guy for most of his career. I'm thinking Babe Laufenberg here. Chester Taylor and Adrian Peterson make an interesting combination in the backfield. I think the Falcons are going to lay down this year. It's a gross understatement to say Bobby Petrino has his hands full. If he can make it through the year with the players still listening to him when he talks, never mind winning games, consider it a success.
Vikings 24-10
Pats @ Jets
Chad Pennington is not very good. Tom Brady is very good. I don't see Randy Moss being a problem in New England. I doubt anything will ever even have to be said to him. Before he arrived, he knew what he was getting in to when he showed up to camp. Keep my mouth shut and win, or run my mouth and be sent home. He's at the point where he's going to be considered a guy who never lived up to his potential because of attitude problems and he'll try to avoid that label from here on out. New England continue their winning ways against a Jets team sure to be disappointed this year. Chad is going downhill.
Pats 27-9
Dolphins @ Redskins
Trent Green leads the new look Dolphins in to FedEx to take on my beloved Redskins. I usually find a way to make it to a lot of Skins games but not tomorrow, but that has nothing to do with my prediction. The Skins, regadless of their final record, usually squeak out a win on Opening Day. I'm hoping the Redskins don't cite Jason Campbell's (damn my second year quarterback theory!) inexperience as a reason to throw two-yard hitches and WR screens out the wazoo as has been their recent history. Follow that up with a draw play on 3rd and long which is never successful because you've just shown the opposition you have no confidence in your quarterback by throwing 2-yard hitches and WR screens all game. Luckily for us, the Skins have a punishing running game and two All-Pro caliber running backs in Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts. Their defense, which hasn't tackled anyone since an intra-squad scrimmage in 2004 training camp, should be better this year.
Skins 17-14
Titans @ Jags
So, David Garrard is starting for the Jags, huh? Wow, that'll make a world of difference. Hopefully you sense my sarcasm. You could have Muggsy Bogues handing off to their running backs and it would not make a difference. Jack Del Rio shouldn't be looking for a lot out of their quarterback anyway. Not saying David Garrard doesn't have talent, he does. I just don't think quarterback should play a big part in the Jags' philosophy. Find a couple serviceable journeymen and they're interchangeable. Some guys make careers out of this (Dilfer, Brad Johnson, I see Chris Simms going this way). Vince Young rubs me the wrong way. Not personally (that's for you, dh, if you read this). I've yet to see an offense ran around a double-threat quarterback be successful. A double-threat quarterback is an asset if the quarterback running is a third or fourth option and the QB can throw the ball accurately and accurately while on the move. I've yet to see this from Vince Young and I have my doubts that he'll learn. He'd have a lot more success if Frank Wycheck was still there.
Jags 21-10
Bears @ Chargers
I see the Bears going 8-8 this year even in their mediocre division. They're no match for San Diego.
Chargers 42-10
Buccaneers @ Seahawks
I find the Seahawks very boring. Shaun Alexander is starting his decline and that'll expose Matt Hasselbeck even more. I don't see anything truly outstanding here. They're perennial contenders, but that should tell you more about the NFC than about Seattle. Jon Gruden's Chucky-face isn't funny anymore. It's even less funny when your team sucks.
Seahawks 27-17
Lions @ Raiders
Why this isn't the Game of the Week I'll never know. I like Jon Kitna though, and Detroit's skill position players could match up well with any team. Kitna's one of those guys that if you replayed his career and he had a little better luck and was in better situations, might be headed to the Hall of Fame. Maybe. He's got a lot of weapons, but they have a habit of losing in Detroit, which shouldn't be ignored. Keeping Matt Millen in charge tells me the owners find losing acceptable and that attitude flows throughout the organization. The Raiders would probably struggle in the Pac-10.
Lions 21-14
Giants @ cowboys
Phil Simms and a coked-up Lawrence Taylor lead the Giants against Troy Aikman, Michael Irvin, and Emmitt Smith, and the rest of the cowboys in this fierce NFC match-up. My, how times have changed. Squeaky clean Eli caught a little slack from Tiki about his leadership skills. Kind of like when that idiot kicker talked about his brother. Eli handled it well. There should be rule that if you're a kicker or named Tiki, you can't talk about other people. Regardless, Eli should have a breakout year this year. Tony Romo will fall victim to my second year quarterback theory. He's not any good anyway. And Wade Phillips laid-back attitude may go over well with TO and the rest of the cowboys, but it won't translate into wins. And that doesn't translate into players keeping their mouths shut about the coach when talking to the media. It will be a season spawned from hell for the cowboys and their fans.
Giants 24-0
Ravens @ Bengals
The Ravens offense is an enigma. They did well getting rid of Jamal Lewis (Beware Cleveland), and I like McGahee. But, for some reason, there are days when they just can't get anything done offensively. They have a decent line, a decent quarterback, a GREAT tight end, and receivers with some talent. I see this as one of those days. The Ravens are a good team, and they'll make the playoffs, but they're going to lose this one.
Bengals 16-7
Cardinals @ 49ers
Remember Neil Lomax and Stump Mitchell and the heyday of the Cards? Well, they weren't that good then, either. Every year I think the Cardinals are going to surprise everyone and make it to the playoffs. Every year, I'm disappointed. Not this year, Arizona!!! The Niners surprised some people last year. Alex Smith is good and Vernon Davis. They have some quality players on defense. But, they're still average and average can beat Arizona.
Niners 24-20
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
About the songs
I don't think it will let you save to your computer and play (it might, but I think it's protected). So click 'open' when the dialogue box comes up.
Song of the Week
I think I figured out a work around for the music so...
Here's another hopefully weekly updated thing. Every week I will put a song up here for you guys to listen to and share your opinion on. I have a wide ranging taste in music. Maybe you have heard of some of these guys and maybe you haven't. Here's the first one.
Streetlight Manifesto
... are a ska band from New Jersey. I first heard them when they opened for Reel Big Fish at a show out here a couple years ago. They are incredible live. Their front man, Tomas Kalnoky used to be in the band Catch 22. He did the vocals and guitar on their first album, Keasbey Nights, which if you're a fan of third-wave ska at all is a must have album. His voice changed quite a bit between Keasbey Nights and Streetlight's debut album, Everything Went Numb. Not better, not worse, but definitely less nasally. SM followed that album up with a remake of Keasbey Nights, which was good but lacked the charm of the original. The band has had a lot of line-up changes over the last few years and had a setback when a lot of their equipment was stolen, but continue to tour a lot and have a new album coming out later this year. There are quite a few clips on youtube of them and I'll let you guys check them out if you like this song. This song is off the Keasbey Nights album.
Streeetlight Manifesto- 9mm & A Three Piece Suit
Here's another hopefully weekly updated thing. Every week I will put a song up here for you guys to listen to and share your opinion on. I have a wide ranging taste in music. Maybe you have heard of some of these guys and maybe you haven't. Here's the first one.
Streetlight Manifesto
... are a ska band from New Jersey. I first heard them when they opened for Reel Big Fish at a show out here a couple years ago. They are incredible live. Their front man, Tomas Kalnoky used to be in the band Catch 22. He did the vocals and guitar on their first album, Keasbey Nights, which if you're a fan of third-wave ska at all is a must have album. His voice changed quite a bit between Keasbey Nights and Streetlight's debut album, Everything Went Numb. Not better, not worse, but definitely less nasally. SM followed that album up with a remake of Keasbey Nights, which was good but lacked the charm of the original. The band has had a lot of line-up changes over the last few years and had a setback when a lot of their equipment was stolen, but continue to tour a lot and have a new album coming out later this year. There are quite a few clips on youtube of them and I'll let you guys check them out if you like this song. This song is off the Keasbey Nights album.
Streeetlight Manifesto- 9mm & A Three Piece Suit
Let's Start Looking at Some Upcoming MLB Free Agents
In a hopefully recurring topic, I'm going to be looking at some of the high-profile guys who are probably going to test the free-agent waters this offseason. I'm an O's fan so I'm going to start this in the beginning of September. First up, the big one:
Alex Rodriguez, SS-3B, New York Yankees
It is all but certain that A-Rod will opt-out of the remainder of his contract that pays him $25.2 Million annually. Who in his right mind would opt out of a contract that large? A man whose agent is telling him he's going to get $36M in free agency. It's hard to believe a man being paid that kind of money would live up to his contract, but Rodriguez has without a doubt. In my opinion, by the time all is said and done, he'll be considered the best player of all time. Yes, better than Ruth, Williams, Honus Wagner, Willie Mays, etc.
So, what's the outlook for A-Rod? Someone will pay him close to the $36 million his agent's after. But who?
Boston - Incumbent third baseman Mike Lowell is a free agent after the season. For all the talk about the Yankees trying to buy a title and not producing enough young talent, the Sox are in the same boat when it comes to position players. With the exception of Pedroia, who I consider to be an average major-leaguer, and Varitek who is seriously overrated because he's "fiery", the Sox have no one playing significant time that came from the system. There's the new kid Ellsbury who's lighting it up, but he's played 12 games.
The Sox missed out on A-Rod after a MLBPA veto. It was a move that seemed to please A-Rod as he was willing to take a pay cut. Ahhh, this also tells me himleaving New York has nothing to do with money. Thanks Yanks fans!!!
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim California of these United States of America - Since Troy Glaus left, the guy mainly playing third base is Chone Figgins. There's a lot to like about Chone Figgins. He hits for a high average, will take the occasional walk and can steal bases at a pretty good success rate. He has almost no power, not even double power which with his speed is pretty telling. Chone Figgins is an exceptional utility-man to have on your roster, but if LAAACotUSoA want to return to the series, they're going to need to upgrade here.
Texas- Hank Blalock is turning into a bust here and Tom
Hicks is willing to spend money. Michael
Young has adapted well to playing SS and Ian Kinsler is very good so A-Rod would stay at third if he returned.
Philly - Philly already has 3/4 of a great infield with Howard, Utley, and Rollins. The Phillies are dying for a championship here and would probably be willing to spend the money to bring A-Rod here. Abraham Nunez is playing third now for Philadelphia and he's just plain bad. Rodriguez could get Philly over the hump, but if A-Rod is looking for a care-free atmosphere after New York, he's not going to find it in Philly.
St. Louis - Scott Rolen is virtually unmoveable from third base, but come on, they've got Eckstein playing short.
San Francisco- I can see SF making a bid for Rodriguez, but I see
nothing attractive about it for Rodriguez to play there. The media
attention will be all over Barry for the first year and then it will
all turn to Alex. The team is not very good at all.
So, that's who I see in the running for Alex Rodriguez.
My Prediction: Philadelphia Phillies 5yr/$178M
Alex Rodriguez, SS-3B, New York Yankees
It is all but certain that A-Rod will opt-out of the remainder of his contract that pays him $25.2 Million annually. Who in his right mind would opt out of a contract that large? A man whose agent is telling him he's going to get $36M in free agency. It's hard to believe a man being paid that kind of money would live up to his contract, but Rodriguez has without a doubt. In my opinion, by the time all is said and done, he'll be considered the best player of all time. Yes, better than Ruth, Williams, Honus Wagner, Willie Mays, etc.
So, what's the outlook for A-Rod? Someone will pay him close to the $36 million his agent's after. But who?
Boston - Incumbent third baseman Mike Lowell is a free agent after the season. For all the talk about the Yankees trying to buy a title and not producing enough young talent, the Sox are in the same boat when it comes to position players. With the exception of Pedroia, who I consider to be an average major-leaguer, and Varitek who is seriously overrated because he's "fiery", the Sox have no one playing significant time that came from the system. There's the new kid Ellsbury who's lighting it up, but he's played 12 games.
The Sox missed out on A-Rod after a MLBPA veto. It was a move that seemed to please A-Rod as he was willing to take a pay cut. Ahhh, this also tells me himleaving New York has nothing to do with money. Thanks Yanks fans!!!
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim California of these United States of America - Since Troy Glaus left, the guy mainly playing third base is Chone Figgins. There's a lot to like about Chone Figgins. He hits for a high average, will take the occasional walk and can steal bases at a pretty good success rate. He has almost no power, not even double power which with his speed is pretty telling. Chone Figgins is an exceptional utility-man to have on your roster, but if LAAACotUSoA want to return to the series, they're going to need to upgrade here.
Texas- Hank Blalock is turning into a bust here and Tom
Hicks is willing to spend money. Michael
Young has adapted well to playing SS and Ian Kinsler is very good so A-Rod would stay at third if he returned.
Philly - Philly already has 3/4 of a great infield with Howard, Utley, and Rollins. The Phillies are dying for a championship here and would probably be willing to spend the money to bring A-Rod here. Abraham Nunez is playing third now for Philadelphia and he's just plain bad. Rodriguez could get Philly over the hump, but if A-Rod is looking for a care-free atmosphere after New York, he's not going to find it in Philly.
St. Louis - Scott Rolen is virtually unmoveable from third base, but come on, they've got Eckstein playing short.
San Francisco- I can see SF making a bid for Rodriguez, but I see
nothing attractive about it for Rodriguez to play there. The media
attention will be all over Barry for the first year and then it will
all turn to Alex. The team is not very good at all.
So, that's who I see in the running for Alex Rodriguez.
My Prediction: Philadelphia Phillies 5yr/$178M
I screwed up again
I really didn't think I would have this hard of a time figuring this out. Please be patient.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Time for Bedard to shut 'er down
So the O's aren't doing anything but embarassing themselves lately. Erik Bedard is hampered by a muscle strain and has been very un-Bedard-like in his last two starts. He got roughed up by Minnesota last week, and after pushing his start back a couple days, was roughed up by Tampa Bay last night. The guy is obviously in pain. It is not worth risking a more serious injury so he can make 4 or more 5 starts this year and the O's finish 15 games under .500 instead of 20. Plus, sending him out there to get blasted isn't helping the guy's psyche. He's pretty much already stated he's leaving when he becomes a free agent and I have to believe that is due to the O's perpetual losing ways. If we want to come anywhere close to .500 next year, we're going to need Erik healthy. And then, maybe, we can keep some of our studs and lure some big name guys to B-more.
Another effect of Tejada's "leadership"
Melvin Mora used to always hustle. I was just checking out his BB-Ref page. He's already grounded into twice as many double plays this year than in any other season. This is with a month left and missing three weeks to injury earlier in the year. Melvin is in the bunch of O's bad apples now.
Why Miguel Tejada should leave the Orioles
In my opinion, Miguel Tejada is at least 50 percent responsible for the O's recent struggles. He has consistently made errors at crucial points of games. If I see him make another error when the O's are up by 1 in the late innings and there's runners on 2nd and 3rd, I'm going to drive the 20 minutes to Camden Yards. Someone needs to tell Dave Trembley that Tejada needs a late-inning defensive replacement. Oh, wait. They traded him (Chris Gomez) for nothing in return. Way to go, Birds!
Tejada also has a poor attitude. Not that he doesn't care. I'm over the fact that he doesn't run out ground balls or is always forgetting how many outs there are in the inning. He's just mopey. It's rubbed off on Melvin Mora. I'll never forget Mora complaining that he was given a day off and he wasn't notified ahead of time. Hey, Melvin, 2003 is over. You are not an all-star anymore. Yes, you have two all-star games under your belt. However, it is a rule that every team must be represented. If you want to cite your two all-star games as reason for special treatment, keep that fact in mind. You haven't had an all-star caliber season in a few years and I think you're washed up. But I don't blame you for thinking you're better than everyone. I blame Miggy.
Jay Gibbons. You're unbelievable. You were .207 with 3 home runs and were complaining about playing time. Again, this is Miguel's fault.
Apparently, a few players on the Orioles were upset when they were told by Trembley that they would have to take infield prior to every game. Guess who led the complaining? Yeah, you guessed it. Miguel. The guy who can't remember how many outs there are in the field or on the bases.
There was an article in the Sun a few weeks ago about how much things are different under Trembley. One of the main points of the article, besides the infield practice, was team stretching. Trembley stresses that the O's are a team and needed to do things together. Apparently, this really upset Tejada and Trembley had to sit down with him and explain that he wasn't above the team.
Miggy, pack your sh*t.
Tejada also has a poor attitude. Not that he doesn't care. I'm over the fact that he doesn't run out ground balls or is always forgetting how many outs there are in the inning. He's just mopey. It's rubbed off on Melvin Mora. I'll never forget Mora complaining that he was given a day off and he wasn't notified ahead of time. Hey, Melvin, 2003 is over. You are not an all-star anymore. Yes, you have two all-star games under your belt. However, it is a rule that every team must be represented. If you want to cite your two all-star games as reason for special treatment, keep that fact in mind. You haven't had an all-star caliber season in a few years and I think you're washed up. But I don't blame you for thinking you're better than everyone. I blame Miggy.
Jay Gibbons. You're unbelievable. You were .207 with 3 home runs and were complaining about playing time. Again, this is Miguel's fault.
Apparently, a few players on the Orioles were upset when they were told by Trembley that they would have to take infield prior to every game. Guess who led the complaining? Yeah, you guessed it. Miguel. The guy who can't remember how many outs there are in the field or on the bases.
There was an article in the Sun a few weeks ago about how much things are different under Trembley. One of the main points of the article, besides the infield practice, was team stretching. Trembley stresses that the O's are a team and needed to do things together. Apparently, this really upset Tejada and Trembley had to sit down with him and explain that he wasn't above the team.
Miggy, pack your sh*t.
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