Piling On LeBron

Apparently the LeBron bashing has extended all the way to Peoria, IL...

http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/mlb/news/story?id=6661570

Pistons Fans Beware

I'm guessing it's not much fun rooting for the Detroit Pistons these days. Not only is your team terrible, but now Isiah Thomas is in the mix for head coach. Yet another example of a former great player who has no business on the bench or in the front office. Be afraid Pistons fans!

Draft Day

The 2011 MLB draft is tonight, and a few questions come to mind:

• Who will go first overall?


• Where will Bubba Starling end up?


• What round will the Cubs pull out another head-scratcher pick?

Same Old Cubs

And the Cubs find a way to lose. Again.

You Must Read This!

I know you're busy, but you have to read this column. What I have to say could change your life. This is a topic that impacts us all. I can't stress how important it is. I know we're all free-thinking people, but it's time to change your thinking. Hear me, and hear me well. We're at the crossroads, the turning point if you will. The moment of truth is now at hand...

TO CONTINUE READING, PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO THE NO-BRAINER SPORTS PREMIUM PACKAGE.

Bonds Gives Back

Everybody likes to rip on Barry Bonds, but how about this gesture...

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=6590118

Interleague Play Starts Today

I don't know about you, but I couldn't sleep last night thinking about the Tigers/Pirates and Astros/Blue Jays matchups.

Pondering Posada

In case you have been living under a rock, Jorge Posada apparently took himself out of the lineup last night. Many reporters are speculating that he was upset about batting last.

At age 39, Posada is running on fumes. So far this year he's batting .165. At this point Posada is lucky to be in the lineup at all. Still, he's been a solid player for 17 seasons, so I guess I can see how pride got the best of him. Now he needs to man up and apologize to his manager and to his teammates.

Rumor is the Yankees were so upset by his behavior that they looked into voiding his contract. I sure hope that's not true. Posada is a Yankee great and a future Hall of Famer (at least in my opinion). I'd hate to see his impressive career tarnished by a brief flash of selfish and stupid behavior.

From Bad To Worse

A rotten Cubs offense just got worse as Geo Soto was placed on the DL. This is a serious blow to a team that was already struggling to score runs. The short-handed Cubs need big-time production from Ramirez and Pena, and they need it now.

The Red Menace!

Recently a friend asked me what I had against the Cincinnati Reds. After all, who didn’t love watching the 1970s Big Red Machine?

With all due respect to Johnny Bench and company, the 2011 Reds turn my stomach. Here are a few of the many reasons why.

• Dusty Baker: I wasn’t a Dusty fan before he came to Chicago. After several years of watching him ride Cubs starting pitchers into the ground, my dislike intensified. The icing on the cake was 2005. That was the year Dusty gave out-making specialist Neifi Perez 609 plate appearances. If that isn’t lineup sabotage, I don’t know what is.



• Bronson Arroyo: As if his hair wasn’t annoying enough, the Reds starting pitcher smacked two homers against the Cubs in 2006. Arroyo has topped the enemy list ever since.



• Aroldis Chapman: Radar gun watchers love Chapman, but so far he’s completely overrated. Yes the kid has a big-time arm, but the hype surrounding this wild, unproven lefty is truly sickening. In case you’re scoring at home, Chapman has walked 18 batters in 26 innings for his career. He may be a star some day, but he also may be the next Robbie Beckett.



• Jonny Gomes: Bad attitude, bad haircut, bad spelling of his first name. That’s more than enough to make the list.



• Brandon Phillips: Speaking of bad attitude, is there anything to like about this guy? OK, he’s a great defensive player. And yes he has decent power for a middle infielder. But his career on-base percentage is .318. Why fans and members of the media treat this guy like the second coming of Chase Utley is beyond me.

Tiger Talk

Today Tigers Manager Jim Leyland said "I don't like to ask guys to bunt who haven't done it very often." With all due respect, I call bullsh!t.

I don't have the numbers in front of me, but I watch a ton of Tigers games. Leyland has to sacrifice bunt more than any manager in baseball. And I want to poke my eyes out almost every time.

Leyland gives away outs like they're going out of style. It will be a happy day when this "old school" managerial method goes out of style as well.

Type First, Think Later?

Dr. Mr. Mendenhall. Please stop sending your every thought to the entire planet. You'll be a much happier person.

In case you missed his latest effort...

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=6478438

The Definition Of Insanity

How can the Cubs give yet another start to punching bag James Russell? Anyone, literally anyone in their minor league system would be a better option. How many beatings do the Cubs have to watch before they see the light? And why do I keep tuning in?

The Plot Thickens

Earlier today Judge Susan Richard Nelson threw a penalty flag at the NFL lock-out. From ESPN.com...

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=6424084

Magic Time

Say what you want about Orlando Head Coach Stan Van Gundy, but he doesn't pull any punches when talking to reporters. He even mixes in a little sarcasm for the home viewers. After losing to the Atlanta Hawks, here's what Van Gundy said about his team's final shot:

• “We didn't get a shot. I mean, we got one flail at the end. Turk caught the ball, held it out in front of him, and the guy took it from him. He gave him the ball. No, we didn’t want him to do that.”

That's outstanding. If Van Gundy ever puts together a comedy tour, I'm buying tickets.

I Don't Get It

Do I have this right? When the Red Sox started the season ice cold, it was a major news story. Now that they're red hot, it's no big deal.

MLB vs. the Dodgers

I'm not sure how this mess will play out, but I loved this interview...

http://sports.espn.go.com/los-angeles/mlb/news/story?id=6404728

Stop The Madness

A dumb story just got a little dumber...

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=6395973

Angels Wave Goodbye To Wood

Brandon Wood seemed like one of those "can't-miss" prospects. Of course, there is no such thing. Can you say "Brien Taylor" or "Ryan Anderson"? Anyway, the Angels designated the once-promising Wood for assignment earlier today. Here's a quick summary from ESPN.com...

http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_/id/9348/angels-finally-give-up-on-brandon-wood

More Bad History

Just when you thought the Cubs legacy couldn't get any worse, there's this story...

http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/mlb/news/story?id=6396358

The Shirt Off His Back

I know times are tough, but wow! From ESPN.com...

• "Reds pitcher Mike Leake was arrested on a shoplifting charge at a downtown department store Monday, accused of trying to steal six shirts with a total value of $59.88."

We can't blame Dusty for this one.

Round One

If the first two games are any indication, the NBA playoffs should be fantastic this year. The Pacers and Sixers pushed the Bulls and the Heat to limit on Saturday. Orlando, Boston, Oklahoma City, and Dallas should have their hands full in the first round as well.

Uh Oh

After three quarters, the Pacers lead the Bulls by eight, in Chicago. Time for Rose to take over!

So Long, Derrick

Sad to see Derrick Williams leave College Basketball, but who can blame him? http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2011/news/story?id=6347632

Don't Look Now

The Red Sox took two out of three from the mighty Yankees. It won't be long until Boston hits and shoots past the .500 mark.

Maybe The World Isn't Ending

You can rest easy now. The Red Sox and Rays won yesterday. Here's a crazy prediction. They'll both win again today, too.

Not Sure What To Make Of This

Here's an odd report from Seattle:

• Jack Wilson asked to be taken out of the Mariners' 7-3 loss to the Rangers on Wednesday, Seattle manager Eric Wedge told reporters today. Wilson implied that Wedge had removed him from the game, which upset Wedge, tweets Geoff Baker of the Seattle Times. The Twitter feed of the Brock & Salk radio show on 710 ESPN Seattle reports that Wedge described Wilson's actions as "unspeakable" and wouldn't discuss the veteran infielder's status with the club.

Bad News For Illini Fans

I can't say I'm surprised by this... http://www.pjstar.com/news/x675819765/Richmond-declares-for-NBA-draft-wont-return-to-Illini

Slow Start

So the Rays and Red Sox are 0-3 to start the season. How soon until the talking heads push the panic button? I say it starts on ESPN Radio tomorrow.

Format Problems

For some reason Blogspot is running every paragraph together. My apologies.

Who Do You Like?

So how many of you had U-Conn, Kentucky, Butler, and VCU in the final four? Loyal readers know that I picked those four teams way back in February. OK, maybe not. Pitt was my choice to cut down the nets as I recall. Looking at tonight's games, I like Butler over VCU. Brad Stevens is a magician and Matt Howard and Shelvin Mack are absolute studs. The VCU story has been fun to watch, but there's a reason they had to win a play-in game to qualify for the tournament. A nice run ends this evening. In the second game, I'll take Kentucky over the great Kemba Walker and company. Say what you want about John Calipari, but the guy can really coach. Brandon Knight will control the game and the Wildcats will move on to Monday. Did I mention that I picked Pitt to win it all?

Sooners' New Coach

A nice hire by OU... http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=6281370

This Also Just In

Mr. David Price is pretty damn good too.

This Just In

That Jason Hewyard guy is pretty good! So why the hell is he batting 6th?

The 2011 Cubs--A Quick Look

Spring has sprung, and the 2011 Cubs look to be an improved squad. Here's a quick glance at the Northsiders position by position...

• C-Geo Soto: At age 28, Soto has become one of the best backstops in the NL. Health was an issue in 2010, which meant lots of at bats for automatic out Koyie Hill (Soto's backup). The Cubs have to get 130+ games out of Geo this season.


• 1B-Carlos Pena: Many Cubs fans were disappointed by the Pena signing, but considering the options I think Jim Hendry did pretty well. Pena's power and ability to draw walks will be a welcome addition to a lineup that needs a jump start.


• 2B-Blake DeWitt & Jeff Baker: Not an exciting platoon, but it could be an effective one. Baker is helpless vs. RHP, but he's provided a potent bat against southpaws. DeWitt has shown decent plate discipline early in his career, and he's only 25.


• 3B-Aramis Ramirez: Fans forget what a solid player Ramirez has been during his time in Chicago. Yes, last year was a disaster, but Ramirez put up big numbers from 2004 to 2009. He turns 33 in June, so there's no reason to think he can't rebound.


• SS-Starlin Castro: The sky is the limit for young Starlin. Hanley Ramirez comparisons abound. Sounds good to me.


• OF-Alfonso Soriano, Marlon Byrd, Kosuke Fukudome, Tyler Colvin: Cubs fans are an interesting bunch. They love Byrd and Colvin and hate Soriano and Fukudome. I guess it's based on salary. My advice is to erase the dollar signs from your brain. Players make what they make. Get over it. The truth is that Soriano and Fukudome have underachieved, but they've still contributed. The Cubs need Soriano's power and Fukudome's onbase skills. Byrd is a useful CF who will likely hit lefties again. Colvin's athleticism and raw power make him a streaky and intersting option. The four-man OF rotation could end up being a strength this year.


• SP-Ryan Dempster, Carlos Zambrano, Matt Garza, Randy Wells, Andrew Cashner: If the Cubs have an advantage in the NL Central, it's the starting rotation. The upside here is very high. Cashner is a wild card of course, but a season isn't defined by a team's fifth starter. If he flops, the Cubs have plenty of young arms to choose from as a replacement.


• RP-Carlos Marmol, Sean Marshall, Kerry Wood, John Grabow, etc: I'm not as excited about this collection of relievers as many Cubs fans seem to be. I see market corrections for Marmol and Marshall, who pitched out of their minds last year. Kerry Wood will probably be productive when he's healthy, but God only knows when that will be. John Grabow is beyond terrible. The rest of the bullpen options (Mateo, Samardzija, Russell, Coleman, Diamond) aren't worth discussing.

Will the Cubs win the NL Central? Probably not. However, they'll be much better than last year and they'll likely stay in the race through Labor Day. I see 82-80 and a third-place finish.

Quade Fires Back

Here's what Cubs manager Mike Quade had to say regarding Carlos Silva's recent attack on the organization:

• “Everyone needs to know that this was my call. It wasn’t Jim Hendry’s. If [Silva wants] to be irritated with somebody, this is on me, OK. It was my decision, complete and totally. I was really disappointed when I heard [Silva's comments]. First of all, he’s dead f—ing wrong, OK, about my pitching coach. And I have no f—ing time for that. Respect is a two-way street. I don’t want to hear anything about respect. If you ain’t giving it, you ain’t getting it.”

I usually don't care what players and coaches say to the media, but this was the right thing to do. Silva's classless comments needed to be addressed. Hopefully this is the period at the end of the sentence.

Jimmer Strikes Again

I know Jimmer Fredette is a great college player, but you don't have to kiss his ass when he plays poorly. Here is his line from last night's loss to Florida:

11-29 FGM-A
3-15 3PM-A
2 REB
5 ASST
6 TO

After the game, Greg Gumbel called his performance "courageous." You know what's courageous? Throwing up brick after contested brick down the stretch while wide-open teammates watch in frustration.

Bad Player, Bad Name

As a lifelong Cubs fan, my world is often confusing. This spring the head-scratching has reached a new level.

Almost every fan I talk to is rooting for Darwin Barney to win the 2B job. Yes, the same Darwin Barney who "slugged" .374 in 1,700 minor league plate appearances. He's also the same Darwin Barney who won't take a walk if you give him a box full of cash.

I know Blake DeWitt and Jeff Baker aren't very exciting options, but those two players are Chase Utley compared to Darwin Barney.

Plus, his freakin' name is Darwin Barney!

"The Trade"

The Nuggets record since trading Carmelo Anthony? 9-2

The Knicks record since acquiring Carmelo Anthony? 7-7

All is well in my universe.

Random Thoughts

A few NCAA Tournament observations, questions, and predictions...

• Gus Johnson has to be the best announcer in sports. I'd love to hear him call a baseball game.
• After playing five games in five days, U-Conn shows no signs of slowing down. I really thought they would struggle in the first round. Shows what I know.
• Bruce Pearl probably just coached his last game in Tennessee.
• What the hell happened to Michigan State this year?
• To the surprise of almost nobody, Gonzaga and West Virginia look rock solid.
• Way back when, I picked Pitt to win it all. I'm not changing my mind.
• Is anyone else sick of Jimmer Fredette?
• VCU is knocking off Georgetown tonight. Write it down! Bet the farm! Keep the faith! Save the planet! Let the wookie win!
• Apparently Charlie Sheen picked Akron to cut down the nets. No word on who Emilio Estevez picked.
• Craig Sager has the worst hairpiece in the history of mankind. His rug makes William Shatner's head helmet look real.
• I love the Illini, but smart money says they go down in the first round yet again. I really hope I'm wrong!

Mr. Foot, Meet Mr. Mouth

Just when you thought the NFL labor fight couldn't get any stranger, Minnesota running back Adrian Peterson decided to give us his two cents. This excerpt is from Profootballtalk.com:

"It’s modern-day slavery, you know?” Peterson said. “People kind of laugh at that, but there are people working at regular jobs who get treated the same way, too. With all the money . . . the owners are trying to get a different percentage, and bring in more money.”

First and foremost, we've all said (or typed) stupid things that we wish we could take back. Hopefully that's how Peterson feels. Having said that, these comments are beyond ridiculous. Modern-day slavery? Really? How much money did you earn last year, Adrian?

Remember it's a business folks, plain and simple. When the financial pie is this big, of course tempers will run a little hot. Of course that doesn't excuse criminal stupidity. I just hope that die-hard fans who are usually "pro player" have the ability to tune this nonsense out.

Getting Ugly

The Players have fired the next shot in the ongoing NFL labor feud. According to ESPN...

"The NFL Players Association is putting into place a plan that would prevent each top college prospect from attending next month's draft in New York, according to multiple league sources. The NFLPA already has contacted 17 top prospects that ordinarily would have received an invitation to attend the draft and informed them not to go."

This is a potential blow to an otherwise entertaining spring tradition. The NFL draft and its in-depth coverage has turned into can't-miss TV for millions of fans.

For the record I still plan to watch, as the "rookie putting on team hat" segment never did much for me. However, I doubt most football enthusiasts feel the same way.

I hope drunken Jets fans will still storm the facility and boo whoever their favorite team selects. Now that's can't-miss TV.

The NFL Labor Situation

As many legal experts predicted, the NFL Players Union has decertified, opening the doors to a lockout, court battles, and more.

Of course this is frustrating to fans, but it's way too soon to fear the worst. Perhaps Buffalo Bills' player rep George Wilson said it best yesterday:

"Fans, players, everybody needs to take a deep breath and take it one day at a time. The season doesn't start until September. If we get to July, August, and September and start losing games, then I can understand people getting emotional. But it's March. Take a deep breath."

I don't know much, but I do know that once both sides start losing checks, a deal will get done. We'll have football in 2011, and not with replacement players.

Riley Sounds Off

I've never been a big Pat Riley fan, but I enjoyed his comments about his team's recent losing streak and the media's collective panic-button reaction:

"Write it off. It's the media being neurotic. It's [the media's] need to make a story, create a story, and make that story come true. And that ain't going to happen. We're just in a tough time right now. We'll get through it...It's like anything else, like I always say, the playoffs will tell."

I'm sure there are still objective sports writers covering the Miami Heat, but many of them seem to fall into the category Riley described. And he's 100 percent correct about the playoffs. Would you want to face LeBron James and company in the postseason? No thanks.

Keep it up, Pat. And keep the Gordon Gekko haircut, too. It still works.

Trouble In Philly?

ESPN is reporting that surgery is now an option for 2B Chase Utley, who continues to battle knee problems.

Not to push the panic button in early March, but this would be a serious blow to the Phillies. You can say what you want about Halladay and Howard, but Utley is clearly their most valuable player. It's almost impossible to replace a middle infielder who gets on base and hits for power.

Is a Michael Young deal in the Phillies future? Perhaps. That rumor has been floating around for weeks. Nothing against Young, who has been a fine major leaguer, but at age 35 he's certainly no substitute for Utley.

Bulking Up

According to MLB Network, Rockies LF Carlos Gonzalez added "19 pounds of muscle" during the off season, and Braves RF Jason Heyward is "up to 250 pounds."

How long until some knucklehead sports writer accuses one of them of using steroids (without any evidence of course)?

Early Predictions

Opening day is right around the corner, so why not come out "swinging?" Get it? Anyway, here are my early predictions for the 2011 season:

NL East--Phillies, Braves, Marlins, Mets, Nationals
NL Central--Brewers, Cardinals, Cubs, Reds, Pirates, Astros
NL West--Rockies, Giants, Dodgers, Padres, D-Backs
Wild Card--Braves
NL MVP--Ryan Braun
NL Cy Young--Tommy Hanson

AL East--Red Sox, Yankees, Rays, Blue Jays, Orioles
AL Central--Twins, Tigers, White Sox, Royals, Indians
AL West--Rangers, Angels, A's, Mariners
Wild Card--Yankees
AL MVP--Joe Mauer
AL Cy Young--Jon Lester

I'll take the Red Sox over the Phillies in an epic seven-game series. Yes, the Phillies "Big Four" will come up a little short.

Upon Further Review

ESPN's Jerry Crasnick wrote a great piece about the so-called "can't-miss prospect." One interesting excerpt is an old quote from Chipper Jones about then teammate Jeff Francoeur:

"He's going to be a superstar, no doubt about it. He'll be the next Dale Murphy. If he continues to hit and play the outfield like he has for the first 20 or so games of his career, we're going to be talking about more than that."
-- Chipper Jones, 2005

Well, a funny thing happened on the way to stardom. NL hurlers figured out that Mr. Francoeur never met a pitch he didn't like. I don't care how great your "tools" are, nothing sandbags a career like poor plate discipline.

It's 2011, and Francoeur is starting over with the Kansas City Royals. He's only 27, so there's still time for him to get back on track. However, with a career onbase percentage of .310, I wouldn't hold my breath.

And In This Corner

From ESPN.com...

Chicago Cubs pitcher Carlos Silva and third baseman Aramis Ramirez scuffled in the dugout Wednesday during a game against the Milwaukee Brewers in Maryvale, Ariz.

My first thought was, "Hopefully Ramirez didn't break has hand on Silva's face." My next thought was, "With my luck, Starlin Castro will somehow get injured." My final take, "I'll be really glad when the Cubs part ways with Carlos Silva."

If that guy does anything at all in April, the Cubs should deal him to the highest bidder. It's the last year of Silva's rotten deal, so he should be a little easier to move.

Don't let the door hit your giant ass on the way out, Carlos.

Testing Testing

According to the Chicago Sun-Times, former Alabama QB Greg McElroy scored 48 out of 50 on the Wonderlic aptitude test. And we're supposed to care why?

I've never understood the fascination with the Wonderlic scores of rookie football players. Don't get me wrong, I'm really glad McElroy knows that the words "resent" and "reserve" mean "neither the same nor opposite." That skill should serve him well in life.

Now, can he actually play pro football?

Can The Cardinals Compete?

Predictably, most of the planet is ready to slam the door on the Cardinals season. Yes the Adam Wainwright injury is a serious blow, but it was only a few short years ago the Redbirds won the World Series with the following collection of starting pitchers:

• Chris Carpenter, 15-8, 3.09
• Jason Marquis, 14-16, 6.02 (How the hell did he win 14 games?)
• Jeff Suppan, 12-7, 4.12
• Mark Mulder, 6-7, 7.14 (Nice effort, Mark.)
• Anthony Reyes, 5-8, 5.06
• Jeff Weaver, 5-4, 5.18
• Sidney Ponson, 4-4, 5.24 (Are you kidding me?)

Will it be difficult for the Cards to compete this year? You bet. The NL Central is an improved division. However, the best player in baseball still wears Cardinal red, as do a Hall of Fame manager and a Hall of Fame pitching coach. The revamped staff still includes Carpenter, Jaime Garcia, and Jake Westbrook, so don't write this team off just yet.

March Madness In February

With just a few games to go, will our beloved Illini make the NCAA tournament? Let's take a quick look at their resume.

As of this post, Illinois is 17-9, 7-6 in the Big Ten. Current RPI (http://www.realtimerpi.com/) is 38, and current strength of schedule is 20. Quality wins include North Carolina, Wisconsin, Michigan State, and Minnesota. Bad losses include UIC (beyond terrible), Indiana, and Northwestern.

Illinois' final games are at Michigan State, at Ohio State, vs. Iowa, at Purdue, and vs. Indiana. I'll say they go 2-3, ending the season at 19-12, 9-9. One Big Ten tournament victory would get the Illini to the magic 20-win mark, which should be good enough for a trip to the "Big Dance."

If I'm wrong and Illinois misses the tournament again this year, they can chalk it up to the UIC loss. UIC is 6-21 with an RPI of 285.

There is simply no excuse for losing that game.

Labor Schmabor

Just in case the NFL contract fight isn't entertaining enough for you, guess what's right around the corner...

On June 30th, the NBA's collective bargaining agreement expires.

Thank God for baseball!

Sad News

Very sorry to hear this news...

http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/nfl/news/story?id=6135463

More Pujols Rumors

The last few days have given us some of the worst sports reporting in recent memory. Here are a few Albert Pujols rumors that I haven't heard or read, but they're not much worse than what the so-called experts are cranking out:

• Pujols to run for President, names Bo Hart running mate
• Pujols to play Gollum in "The Hobbit"
• Pujols to counsel Miguel Cabrera on the dangers of alcohol
• Pujols announces concert dates with Justin Bieber
• Pujols signs to play QB for Washington Redskins; Mike Shanahan questions his conditioning
• Pujols wants to replace Steve Carell on "The Office"
• Pujols calls spelling of last name "confusing"
• Pujols joins Glenn Beck and Bill O'Reilly on "Bold Fresh Tour"
• Pujols texts racy photos to Brett Favre
• Pujols doubts Warren Report findings
• Pujols dies hair, admits "blondes have more fun"
• Pujols receives crank call, doesn't have Prince Albert in a can

Pujols On The Move?

And just like that, the baseball universe is ready to say that Albert Pujols is leaving St. Louis.

In case you missed it, the Pujols "deadline" has come and gone. In spite of what some news organizations are reporting, contract talks between the Cardinals and Pujols haven't ended. The talks have simply been postponed until after the season, per Albert's request.

Don't take my word for it. Here's what Pujols' agent had to say earlier today:

"The expiration of today's deadline does not eliminate the possibility of Albert returning to the Cardinals in 2012, but simply delays negotiations until the conclusion of the Cardinals' season."

Will he re-sign with the Cards? Who the hell knows? However, I think it's just as likely as any other scenario, including a move to the Bronx.

Don't burn those #5 jerseys just yet Cardinal fans.

Junior Returns

According to ESPN, the Seattle Mariners have hired Ken Griffey Jr. as a special consultant. Maybe he'll teach the M's youngsters how to nap during ballgames.

In all seriousness, it's good to see Junior returning to Seattle as something other than a washed up player, which is exactly what he was in 2009 and 2010.

More Money

According to Ken Rosenthal, the Cubs have signed Carlos Marmol to a three-year, $21-million contract extension.

Marmol is certainly a major talent, but the last thing I would overpay for is a relief pitcher. Shelling out $7 million per year for a guy who throws 70-80 innings doesn't seem like the best use of funds.

MLB Network's "Top 10" Series

First, let me say how much I enjoy MLB Network. By and large they do a great job with programming and day-to-day baseball coverage. I'm even intrigued by the network's positional "Top 10 Right Now" series.

Today I watched the RF edition. Take a guess who topped that list.

Ichiro!

For those of you scoring at home, that's the same player who "slugged" .394 last year.

I like Ichiro as much as the next guy, but calling him the league's best RF "Right Now" is borderline criminal. If it's truly a "Right Now" list, then how the hell did he finish ahead of players like Shin-Soo Choo, Nelson Cruz, Jayson Werth, and Jose Bautista? Jose Bautista hit 54 bombs last year!

I hope the rest of the "Top 10" series doesn't follow this disturbing path. If it does, get ready for Todd Helton to lead the 1B line-up.

Yankees Still Searching For Arms

According to MLBTradeRumors.com, the New York Yankees are considering signing RHP Kevin Milwood to a one-year deal. The former Brave, Phillie, Indian, Ranger, and Oriole was 4-16 with a whopping 5.10 ERA in 2010.

The Yankees have already fired up the "Way-Back Machine" by signing Freddy Garcia and Bartolo Colon this off season.

I guess Steve Trachsel wasn't available.

Remembering Chuck Tanner

Former Pirates, Braves, White Sox, and A's Manager Chuck Tanner passed away today.

Tanner was probably most famous for leading the "We Are Family" Pittsburgh Pirates of 1979. I was a very young baseball fan back then, but I have fond memories of that squad. I also have a vague memory of a Chuck Tanner meltdown during the 1980s. Perhaps one of you can help me with it.

As I recall, Tanner put on a radical shift in the bottom of the 9th with Astros 1B Glen Davis at the plate. Davis singled through the open right side and drove in the winning run. After the game, a reporter asked Tanner why he ordered the shift. Tanner replied, "That guy hasn't hit a ball to the right side all year."

The reporter reminded the frustrated Braves skipper that Davis had singled to right the evening before. Tanner's reply?

"Shut up!"

I really hope that story actually happened how I remember it. It was a long time ago and my memory gets worse every year, but it still cracks me up. In any case, rest in peace, Chuck.

All That Jazz

You can scratch my "Utah to the NBA finals" prediction:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=6109031

This is a huge loss for the team and the league. I'm very sorry to see Jerry go, but not as sorry as Jazz fans will be.

Super Sunday

As much as I love the Super Bowl, it always makes me a little sad because another NFL season is coming to an end.

The 2010-2011 campaign was memorable to say the least. It's only fitting that two of the league's greatest franchises are meeting on Super Sunday. So who's coming out on top?

Like most big games, this contest should come down to turnovers. As balanced as the Steelers are, Big Ben makes me a little nervous. Will he scramble and execute a game-winning throw, or hold the ball too long and turn it over at crunch time?

In a battle of two evenly matched teams, I'll take the more efficient offense. For me, that's Aaron Rodgers and the Packers. I like Green Bay in a dog fight, 23-19.

The Brett Favre shadow will finally disappear. It's about time.

Numbers Don't Lie

We all know how great Kobe Bryant is, but until today I had no idea that he is eighth on the NBA's all-time scoring list.

That's right, at age 32 Kobe has already passed the likes of Hakeem Olajuwon, Oscar Robertson, Jerry West, and Dominique Wilkins.

Next up, Elvin Hayes and Moses Malone.

QBs On The Move In 2011

Assuming that the labor issues get settled in a timely fashion, it should be an interesting offseason in the NFL. Several solid, or at least intriguing, QBs will be looking for new homes in 2011. Consider this quick list:

• Donovan McNabb
• Vince Young
• Kyle Orton
• Kevin Kolb

And that doesn't even count Carson Palmer, who is demanding a trade. If I'm the Arizona Cardinals, I'm licking my chops. The birds are basically a QB away from returning to playoff contention.

They almost can't screw this up.

More News That Isn't News

Earlier today, Chad Ochocinco announced that he is changing his name back to Chad Johnson. Hopefully millions of football fans had the exact same reaction I did:

"Who cares?"

Chad is yet another example of somebody who needs to perform more and talk less.

Piling On Jay Cutler?

So let me get this straight...I'm supposed to believe that Jay Cutler faked or exaggerated an injury to take himself out of a playoff game? That has to be the craziest thing I've ever heard. And please don't bombard me with more nonsense about body language, facial expressions, and ice packs.

Now for the only vote that counts, Coach Lovie Smith:

"Jay didn't take himself out of the game. If you're going to attack somebody, you should be attacking me as the head football coach, and our medical staff. We're the ones. He wanted to go back in. He was injured and went back in in the second half. I see it the complete opposite of how it's been portrayed right now."

Finally, the voice of reason. Critics can question a lot of things about Jay Cutler, but toughness isn't one of them. Did anybody watch the Bears/Giants game this year? How would you like to play behind that offensive line?

Cutler might be a jerk (I honestly have no idea one way or the other), but he shows up to play. If he was on the sidelines during the biggest game of his career, he had to be injured. Case closed.

Warren Sapp Strikes Again

I'm watching the NFL Network, and Marshall Faulk just asked why the media dislikes Jay Cutler. Warren Sapp's answer?

"One word. Body language."

Outstanding. You just can't make this stuff up.

Round Three--This Time It's Personal!

I sure hope you're not betting based on my picks. It goes without saying that the crystal ball is severely damaged this postseason. After two playoff rounds, I'm exactly .500. Ladies and gentlemen, that is sad.

But it's a new week, and once again I attack the slate of playoff games with a fresh approach. Maybe it's time to try George Costanza's "do the opposite" strategy. Maybe it will get me a job with the New York Yankees. Maybe not.

Upon further review, maybe I should continue to go with my gut. It always comes through at crunch time. It also really likes beer. And potato chips. And chilli.

Anyway, on to the games...

• Packers over Bears: This just in...Aaron Rodgers is a freak of nature. I can't remember the last time a quarterback played at this high of a level for this long. Combine his talents with a defense that is really coming together, and I think Bears Nation is in big trouble. Evil Jay Cutler could be just around the corner. You know, the guy who looks like he's never played football before. This one will get ugly. Packers 35, Bears 16.
• Steelers over Jets: I hope this contest lives up to the hype. On paper, it looks too good to be true. Powerful defenses. Dynamic coaches. Rock-solid running games. Explosive receivers. Serious trash talkers. The Jets continue to impress, but I think the magic finally runs out on Sunday. I like the Steelers at home, 24-20, and I love the idea of a Pittsburgh/Green Bay Super Bowl.

So with that in mind, grab your ATM card and bet the Bears and Jets.

Say What?

So in one day the Patriots went from the best team in football to overrated chokers. Is it just me, or do sports fans get dumber every year?

Playoff Picks, Round Two

After a dreadful start to week one of the NFL playoffs, the Packers and Ravens helped me save face. This weekend's lineup of games is tough to pick, but as always I remain unafraid! Here's how I see round two...

• Ravens over Steelers: I wouldn't even bet a nickel on this pick, as it's way too close to call. However, Baltimore was my preseason Super Bowl selection, so I'm not backing off now. Summer predictions aside, I really like the balance of the Ravens offense--great running game, solid quarterback, depth at the WR/TE position, and a reliable kicker. The X factor might be Steelers' receiver Mike Wallace, who can stretch the field with the best of them. This should be a tight, entertaining game that goes down to the last two minutes. I'll toss a coin and take the Ravens, 24-20.
• Falcons over Packers: Green Bay is loaded with talent, but the Falcons just don't lose at home. Atlanta's running attack will help them win the battles for field position and time of possession. Look for "Matty Ice" to get an early lead and force the Packers to play catch up. This should be another close call, with Atlanta holding on 34-28.
• Bears over Seahawks: First of all, who in his right mind would have picked Seattle over New Orleans last week? That performance was beyond shocking. Lightning can't strike twice, right? Well maybe it can, but it won't, not in Chicago anyway. The Bears are simply better at almost every position. Unless Jay Cutler craps himself, which is certainly possible, Seattle's playoff run is over. Cutler comes through and the Bears win, 30-16.
• Jets over Patriots: This is a painful pick both ways, as I can't stand either team. The only thing more annoying than Rex Ryan is the way America's sports media kisses Tom Brady's ass. The good news is that the game should be wildly entertaining, partly because of the bad blood between everybody involved. I know the Patriots are really really good, but I'm not ready to hand them the AFC just yet. New York still has the advantage on defense, even with New England's infusion of young talent. If the Jets can run the ball effectively, and if Mark Sanchez can eliminate turnovers, the game will be there for the taking. Jets pull the upset, 27-24.

Good Riddance

So long to a rotten season in College Football.

Last night's sloppy, uneven national championship game was the perfect imperfect ending to a painful 2010. From the Cam Newton scandal to the Ohio State "suspensions" to the TCU screw job, this was a season NOT to remember.

Now if I could only erase the memory of Oregon's hideous uniforms from my brain. I'm afraid those feathered jerseys and radioactive socks will keep me awake for many nights to come.

It's A Good Thing I Don't Gamble

Earlier in the week I believe I said "I would bet the farm on the Saints." I sure hope nobody listened!

Nice defense, New Orleans. Truly gutless.

Cubs Make A Big Move

After a month of rumors and denials, Matt Garza is coming to Wrigley.

The Cubs acquired the 27-year-old righty, OF Fernando Perez, and a player to be named later from Tampa Bay for P Chris Archer, SS Hak-Ju Lee, OF Sam Fuld, C Robinson Chirinos, and OF Brandon Guyer.

I've always been a big Garza fan, even during his highly publicized meltdowns. He's got tremendous stuff, he's been very durable, and his contract is Cub-friendly. He should be a solid, occasionally spectacular, NL starter.

Certain baseball writers think the Cubs gave up way too much for Garza, but I just don't see it. Sam Fuld is a dime-a-dozen utility outfielder. Chris Archer pitched well in A and AA ball, but the Cubs are loaded with young arms. Robinson Chirinos hit very well at AA in 2010, but he's been in their minor league system for 10 years, managing only 79 home runs in 2,900 at bats. Guyer has been up and down in four minor league seasons, including a very “up” 2010. His low walk total is a concern.

And now we come to Mr. Lee. Smarter people than yours truly love him as a prospect. After all, he's only 20 years old and has impressive patience at the plate. However, Lee slugged an embarrassing .351 in Peoria last season. I know he's young, but the caliber of pitching in low A ball is dreadful. If I worked in the Rays’ front office, I would be worried about his ability to swing the bat as he moves up the ladder. However, time is on his side.

Even if Lee becomes an everyday Major League shortstop, I still like this deal for the Cubs, who already have a superstar in the making at short. The Cubs may not be the NL Central favorites, but they just got a lot better. Nice move by Jim Hendry.

NFL Playoff Preview

Round one of the NFL postseason presents a few intriguing matchups. Here's what you can expect this weekend:

• New Orleans over Seattle--You don't have to be Jimmy the Greek to nail this one. The defending champs should walk all over the 7-9 Seahawks. I don't gamble anymore, but if I did I'd bet the farm on Drew Brees and the Saints. Marty Crane is about to have a terrible weekend.
• Indy over NY Jets--Tough call here. Both teams are watered-down versions of last year's playoff squads. Both teams have frustrated fans this season. Both teams are still dangerous. I like the Jets running game and aggressive style of defense, but I love Peyton Manning in January. Plus, it's a home game for the Colts and Joseph Addai is back in the starting line up. Look for Indy to "put its best foot forward" against Rex Ryan's Jets. Another Rex Ryan foot joke! Get it? Now that's comedy!
• Baltimore over KC--If I keep picking against the Chiefs, I'll be right sooner or later. This may shock you, but I really don't like the Chiefs. And of course, the Ravens were my preseason Super Bowl pick. Easy win on the road for Baltimore.
• Green Bay over Philly--This matchup is basically a coin toss, but I think the Packers' defense will be the difference. I also think that Michael Vick and DeSean Jackson are pretty beat up. To be fair, I'm picking with my heart too, as I love watching Aaron Rodgers play QB. I really want to see him play in the next round, and I think I will.

Bold Predictions

The crystal ball is up and running for the New Year. Here's how I see it...

• The Baltimore Ravens will defeat the New Orleans Saints in Super Bowl XLV (I think I got that number right). Ray Rice will get to say "I'm going to Disneyland!" Or is it, "Disneyworld?"
• The NFL will avoid a lock-out in the 11th hour.
• The Fighting Illini will make the Sweet 16. Bruce Weber will still sound like Peter Brady going through puberty.
• The Pitt Panthers will cut down the nets on April 4th.
• The Boston Celtics will win the NBA championship, knocking off the Utah Jazz.
• The Chicago Cubs will finish the season 82-80, good for third place in the Central. The Cardinals will edge the Brewers for the division crown. Dusty's Reds will finish under .500.
• Carlos Pena will win over doubting Cubs fans.
• Ozzie Guillen will say and do a bunch of stupid stuff. I won't be able to understand most of it. Adam Dunn will swat his usual 40 homers for the White Sox.
• Albert Pujols will sign a contract extension with St. Louis and then win the MVP award, yet again.
• AL MVP...Joe Mauer
• NL Cy Young...Tommy Hanson
• AL Cy Young...Justin Verlander
• The Boston Red Sox will win the 2011 World Series, defeating the "invincible" Philadelphia Phillies.
• Reality TV will continue to be a huge waste of time.
• "There's an app for that." Sorry, just trying to be one of the cool kids.