Sports from both sides

Huskies @ Stanford a writers bleeding thoughts

2011-10-21T12:45:00.000-07:00

It's been a long long time since I've done anything on this blog, but I have some burning thoughts inside of me from a fans perspective. Thing's I can't put into my stories for Rivals and have no other place to lets it out...

I think the Huskies can win this football game. I've said it a few times to friends and family, but never on record as a non-biased writer. So why the two thoughts? Well because in reality, everything tells me that Stanford is the better team and should win the game, so as a writer I'm following that and picking the Cardinal. But as a bleeder of purple and gold, I'm picking the Huskies...Win-Win for me? I guess so, but that's just the way it goes.

Why do I think the Huskies win? Well because the Husky offense is just too good to be stopped. They're going to put up points in the game, that means they'll be in the game no matter what Stanford does on offense. If the Huskies score 40 points, which I think could happen, they will at the very least be right with the Cardinal.

But the Huskies come in knowing this is the biggest game the program has seen in probably 10 years. You could argue the Holiday Bowl or one of the late games last season, but NO, a win over Stanford put them into contention for the Rose Bowl and would show the nation that the Huskies are back. The players know that, Sark knows that, and that fire should give them an edge that Stanford can't match. Even at home in Stanford Stadium, it's not exactly the most amazing atmosphere for college football, I don't think the Cardinal are all that fired up for this one.

Go ahead and tell me that the Huskies defense isn't good enough to contain Andrew Luck, I'll agree, I think he will have a big game. But if the Huskies win the turnover battle and special teams battle, which seems very possible, how can they lose the game? With Price under center and Polk pounding it as well, all the offense needs is for the other two aspects of the game to give a little bit of help, and it will be all there for the taking.

My last reason for thinking the Huskies win is that I am a firm believer in what Sark is capable of. Yes he's made some mistakes here and there, but he has a brilliant offensive mind that will keep the Huskies rolling. I expect a game plan that is effective and high powered and puts up a lot of points. He is ready for this one and so are the Huskies.

As a non-biased writer I picked Stanford 45-38, But what I REALLY think will happen, is the Huskies win 42-34.

Jeff Lindquist to Washington? The day after Jake Locker is taken number 8

2011-04-29T14:12:00.000-07:00

Jake Worthen of Scout.com is reporting that Jeff Lindquist, the Mercer Island quarterback is headed to Washington to play for Steve Sarkisian and the Huskies. He had said he was going to announce on May first, but apparently he decided early and his choice is Washington. It is a little bit curious that he chose the day after Jake Locker was taken in the top 10 of the NFL draft.

He must like what Sarkisian was able to do to the draft stock of Locker and wants the same for himself. The 4 star QB was deciding between Washington and Stanford, but Washington ended up winning out.

This will make for an interesting next few years as the Huskies are in the middle of a QB battle between Nick Montana and Keith Price, but chances are that Lindquist will come in and compete for playing time right away.

This is huge for the Huskies and leaves the Cardinal looking elsewhere for the heir to Andrew Luck. For Washington, they may have found the future at QB, while he is a little late to step right in for Locker, he looks like he will be able to fill the shoes just fine.

Jake Locker...Overrated or Over-criticized? Tennessee Titans seem to think Over-Criticized

2011-04-28T17:51:00.000-07:00

The Titans just made their pick and they go with Jake Locker number 8 overall in a surprise early in the draft. I had him going number 12 to the Vikings, but I think the situation he is going into could be perfect for him. He has some work to do, but apparently his choice to come back didn't cost him so much as everyone has expected.

Jake Locker joined the Huskies about 5 years ago and the talk was that he was going to lead the program back to the promise land...The Rose Bowl. Everyone thought that he was the second coming, giving him the nick name of the Montlake Messiah as well as Jake Jesus Locker...Check out his wikipedia page, in the first sentence about his college life it says he was dubbed the savior of the program. Jake himself would be the last person to talk about himself in this sense, he is a humble hard-working guy who appears to only want to improve. That being said he was on several awful Huskies teams where he got little to no help. His first 2 years he spent running for his life behind a terrible offensive line. His second two years he had an improved line but turned into a pro-style quarterback under Steve Sarkesian. After his Junior year the entire country thought he was going pro, and he would be a top pick in the draft. But he decided to stay one more year. In his final year he led the Huskies to a 7-6 record..including their first bowl games in years. Something he should be should be proud of...but that doesn't mean he is going to turn into a top flight pro QB, or even close to that...

As I mentioned, he was slotted to be a top pick in the draft had he declared last year...or maybe he wasn't going to be a top pick, or even a first round pick...The reason that the nation thought he would be going that high in the draft was because ESPN, especially Todd McShay and Mel Kiper who said he was going to go that high...I am not going to pick a fight with McShay or Kiper at all, I am sure he did think that Locker would be the top pick in the draft, but I have heard from a reliable source that it wasn't the case. My source explained to me that before underclassmen declare, organizations go through the prospects and say when they would likely draft a player. Locker was not going to be picked in the first round by any team in football according to my source...Yes things change with the combine and workouts, but I have a feeling that the owners telling Locker he wasn't such a high pick led him to go back to Washington. Lockers wouldn't be the only recent QB overrated by ESPN...A similar situation happened with Jimmy Claussen, who Kiper said was a top 5 pick, but he fell deep into the second round of the draft...That wouldn't happen if the NFL viewed him as a top 5 player.

Back to Locker though...He has all of the intangibles that coaches drool over, especially Josh McDaniels (Look where that got him). But the only measurable skills Locker has helping him at the NFL level is his speed. He is a fast and powerful runner, but how many QB's run in the NFL? The only one who does it consistently is Michael Vick, who is just a freakish athlete and is much faster than Locker. Yes some others will scramble around and run occasionally, but if a QB's strength is their running prowess, they likely won't make it in the league. Locker has a pretty strong arm as well, but overthrowing receivers by 10 yards on a consistent basis isn't going to get him the starting job. Locker has shown time and time again he lacks any accuracy on both his long throws and his short throws...That is a death sentence in the NFL.

The majority of NFL routes are timing routes where the QB has to get the ball out at the right moment, PLUS it has to be in the right spot. Neither of those things are in Lockers repertoire, meaning he can't make the majority of the throws needed in the NFL. Think about a 10 yard out route, or a 10 yard outside hitch. Locker drops back looking one way trying to look off the secondary (Something I will get into)...then turns back and throws the ball to his receiver, the likelihood things go wrong are HUGE...yes that is the case for all QB's, but the majority of NFL quarterbacks are accurate passers which highly lowers the chances of something going wrong. When a QB's weakness is accuracy it basically will doom him, because NFL defensive backs are too good not to capitalize on poor throws. Accuracy isn't something that can be taught either. It can be improved yes, but Locker isn't even close to where he will need to be.

Locker made poor decisions throughout his career as a Husky yet some think he will be able to be smart enough to still use the tools he has in order to succeed, seems illogical to me. He has poor footwork, poor ability to look off defenders and he is very incapable of recognizing when to tuck and run and when to pass. He likes to lock onto his receiver, which he could get away with at the college level, but that won't work when someone like Ed Reed is watching and waiting to intercept any pass thrown...Even think back to the first game against Nebraska, those quality DB's were able to jump all over his throws. Locker also wouldn't tuck and run the ball even when he had enough room to get a first down or a touch down...sometimes he ran and it was productive, but often times he tried to pass when he had a running lane and no one to throw to.

Oddly though ESPN seems to think that he is an accurate passer and his only true negatives are his durability and decision making. While I agree those are down-sides, after watching 4 years of Locker he is not an accurate passer.

For UW it seemed as if Locker was throwing fade routes or dumps for the majority of his senior season. If Locker was such a good QB I would expect them to utilize him rather than expect their receivers to go make plays. Fade routes are basically jump balls where all the QB has to do is make a decent throw and let his guy go to work. Any QB should be able to make those throws, and Locker even struggled with those, often times throwing them too far outside and out of bounds.

Locker's completion percentage his senior year was 55.4 percent...that is an awful number...even if you give him the benefit of the doubt that he had no time to throw or no one to throw to, he was unable to make the majority of the throws during the season. Heck look at his game against Nebraska in the Holiday Bowl, he had no completions in the first half! He finished the game 5 of 16! Yes they won the game, but that was on the defense and Chris Polk, not Locker. A guy who is supposed to be a first round pick at QB should be the guy a team can lean on in big games, Locker was not that guy and will never be that guy.

I thank Locker for helping Washington get some national attention, but he never really won anything. His record as a QB was 15-25 for Washington. He had 4 game winning drives led, but also had several stinkers of games. That is not what I could call a savior of a program nor a top draft prospect ... I hope him the best in the NFL..Go prove me wrong Jake! I even think a team will take a shot on him in round one of the draft...but I believe that he will either have to change positions to avoid becoming a total bust in the NFL.

NFL Mock Draft, Will Locker be drafted in round one?

2011-04-28T16:43:00.000-07:00

With time ticking down until the first pick will come in I have decided it's time for me to throw in my first round mock draft. It's a little late coming, but what better time to get the picks in than right before, at least it won't be late like the Minnesota Vikings in 2003. So without further adieu, here is my mock draft:

1. Carolina Panthers: Cam Newton, QB Auburn
He's number one everywhere, but I just don't see how the Panthers could pass him up. Yeah they have Jimmy Claussen but Newton is a winner and is too much of a fan favorite to pass up. I don't see him as a star in the pros, but I think he is decent, expect him to be something on the level of David Garrard...maybe that comparison is a little easy seeing as they are both African-American Qb's?

2. Denver Broncos: Von Miller, LB Texas A&M
The Broncos have to go with the best available pick right here. Miller isn't the top player in the draft, Patrick Peterson is, but Denver has one of the best corners in the game in Champ Bailey. Miller adds a dynamic pass rushing ability to a team that had just 23 sacks total last season. He could play the Sam linebacker or Defensive end which gives him even more value at the next level.

3. Buffalo Bills: Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama
He's big and strong and a safe pick at number three. The Bills are a long way away from being a contender, but they can start by using this pick to add someone to the middle of their 3-4 defensive scheme. Dareus is a guy who can do it all, stop the run, pressure the passer and even move to the defensive end spot if needed.

4. Cincinnati Bengals: Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU
He has the highest upside of any player in the draft and the Bengals need someone to help them make plays. They have no QB so drafting a receiver doesn't make a whole lot of sense to me at this spot. Peterson fits in with the Bengals defense as he's big and strong, but also might be the fastest player in the draft after running a 4.3 40 at the combine.

5. Arizona Cardinals: Blaine Gabbert, QB Missouri
The threat of a repeat of Matt Leinert might scare the Cardinals away from making this pick, but they are in dire need of someone to run their offense. They have a strong receiving corp, good young running backs, and a good offensive line, but no one to play QB. They could go defense and wait on a QB, but I think Gabbert is the pick at number 5.

6. Cleveland Browns: Julio Jones, WR Auburn
I think that A.J. Green is the better receiver of the two, but the Browns had a big guy names Braylon Edwards who failed them in the past. They make the move and go with Jones and grab a speedy guy who makes an immediate impact in the passing game and the return game. He has Monster upside written all over him.

7. San Francisco 49ers: Nick Fairley, DT Auburn
After hoping Gabbert would fall to them the 49ers are going to have to go with the top player on defense and that is Fairley. He has some issues, but the whole world watched him go out and basically win a national championship for the Crimson Tide. He will help an already strong defense and the 49ers will have to wait on finding a QB.

8. Tennessee Titans: A.J. Green, WR Georgia
The Titans have Chris Johnson on offense, but when he's been bottled up they haven't had anywhere else to turn to. They get a gift with Green slipping all the way to 8. He is the real deal and with the problems surrounding Randy Moss, Green will fill in and be a playmaker for a team that needs someone who can work outside.

9. Dallas Cowboys: Tyron Smith, OT USC
The Cowboys have all of the playmakers they need, but it's the two lines they can't seem to figure out. Jerry Jones makes the smart call and decides it isn't fantasy football anymore and goes with the unsexy pick of Smith.

10. Washington Redskins: Da'Quan Bowers, DE Clemson
The Redskins have had troubles with Albert Haynseworth, but if he can get his act together the defensive line for the Skins would be a dominant part of their team with Bowers rushing around the edge. He has some injury questions, but he could be a star if he stays healthy.

11. Houston Texans: Prince Amukamara, CB Nebraska
One of the worst secondaries in the league last year has to do something about it. They would like to move up and get Peterson, but if that doesn't work out they have to address the need right here and get the second best Corner in the draft.

12. Minnesota Vikings: Jake Locker, QB Washington
I talked a lot about Locker here, but the more I think and watch, he has too much upside to turn down. He has the intangibles and the speed that the Vikings will have trouble passing over him. They could be one player like Locker away from being a Super Bowl winner in a few years. He goes from Purple to Purple, I am not saying he will be an All-Pro, but he won't be slipping as some analyst may think.

13. Detroit Lions: Anthony Castonzo, OT Boston College
The Lions would have loved for Smith to fall to them, but with him not there they still need to make a move and get help along the offensive line. If either Amukamara or Smith are available at this spot the Lions take them, but I don't expect that so they will settle for the number 2 O-lineman on the board.

14. St. Louis Rams: Corey Liuget, DT Illinois
The Rams are a much improved team on offense and this pick begins their work on the defensive side of the ball. Liuget is a player who plays with a high motor and is always after the football. He would be a beast in the middle and could be the key to the Rams winning the NFC West.

15. Miami Dolphins: Mike Pouncey, OG/C Florida
He would join a line that is solid on the outside, but the interior has had some holes recently. The Dolphins are a team that has been much better in recent years than they were about 5 years ago and thats because they build form the core. This continues on that line of thinking and they will try to win games in the trenches.

16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Robert Quinn, DE/OLB UNC
After missing 2010 his draft stock takes a hit, but he will be a good pass rusher with his blend of size and speed. The Jaguars get a gift here because Quinn has top 10 talent, but he slips to them at 16.

17. New England Patriots: Cameron Jordan, DE California
Bill Belichick wants his team to be smart and thats what Jordan would bring to the table alongside his great frame and athleticism. He will fit in with their 3-4 scheme on the end and should be productive on one of the better defenses in the league.

18. San Diego Chargers: Muhammad Wilkerson, DT Temple
He's a perfect fit in the middle of the line for the 3-4 scheme of the Chargers. He came out early and was able to rise this spring into the first round. He has top 10 talent and had he waited a year to come out would have been fighting for a spot in the top 5.

19. New York Giants: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB Missouri
He still has some development to do, which makes him the perfect fit with the Giants. They are solid on the defensive line and have good ends, but they are aging. Smith will fit in as an End in their 3-4 scheme and could become a major pass rusher with his major athleticism and speed.

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Ryan Kerrigan, DE Purdue

He is a tough guy to project position wise, but has a knack for getting to the football and getting tackles for a loss. Whether he ends up at defensive end or OLB, he will make plays at the next level. The Bucs are in need of someone like Kerrigan to rush the passer on the outside and the value here is very strong.

21. Kansas City Chiefs: Nate Solder, OT Colorado

The Chiefs are all about running the football and they already have one of the best offensive lines in football. They have a hole at right tackle which is where Solder will come in and play right away. His addition will help an already dominant running game.

22. Indianapolis Colts: Gabe Carimi, OT Wisconsin

Someone has to protect the most valuable player in all of football right? That's gotta be the primary focus of the Colts on offense. A possible addition of Mark Ingram could happen, but their offensive line is important if they want their offense to be one of the best in the league. Manning with time is unstoppable.

23. Philadelphia Eagles: Jimmy Smith, CB Colorado

Smith is rated as the number two guy by a lot of teams, ahead of Prince. He had some questions about character issues, which have kind of gone away, but where else should he accepted than the team that welcomed Michael Vick into town?

24. New Orleans Saints: Mark Ingram, RB Alabama

There are some questions about his speed, but with Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush, Ingram could come in and be a perfect fit for a three headed running attack. The Saints were down badly in the playoffs with injuries at runningback and Ingram seems like a good fit for a team with an already dynamic offense.

25. Seattle Seahawks: Andy Dalton, QB TCU

Don't get locked into this pick, I think the Seahawks will do whatever they can to move away from this spot. They will move back and pick up several picks. If they take Dalton he will fit in nicely, he has some mobility, not a lot, but he appears to be almost NFL ready, give him one year behind Matt Hasslebeck and he should be ready to go.

26. Baltimore Ravens: Brooks Reed, DE/OLB Arizona

The Ravens are getting older on the defensive side of the ball, adding Reed would give them flexibility and an athletic playmaker along their front 7. He would be able to step in right away and help a defense that is strong, but has been less dynamic in recent years.

27. Atlanta Falcons: Danny Watkins, OG Baylor

The Falcons are pretty well set around their team, they could use some help along their defensive front 7, but their O-Line needs to be their bread and butter. Watkins is ready to play right away and will help the Falcons in the running game as well as give Matt Ryan time to throw in the pocket.

28. New England Patriots: Akeem Ayers, OLB UCLA

The Patriots are the only team with 2 picks in round one and they go defense twice. This pick as all about upside. Ayers was a top 5 pick early after the season ended, but slipped. Under the strong coaching in New England he could flourish into one of the better linebackers in the league.

29. Chicago Bears: Adrian Clayborn, DE Iowa

He fits more as a 4-3 defensive end, but I see the Bears taking him and using him in their 3-4 scheme on the end. He is a big strong kid with the ability to stop the run, but put some pressure on the QB. The Bears need help on the interior of their defensive line and he could move there, but his size alone will be important for the Bears defense.

30. New York Jets: J.J. Watt, DE Wisconsin

New York is a great fit for Watt who is a big strong end, but he has elite pass rushing ability. They get one of the biggest D-End prospects from the draft and fill a need at the same time. The value with this pick is huge for them.

31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Derek Sherrod, OR Mississippi State

He is not the typical lineman the Steelers would go after, but they need to get an offensive tackle at this spot. He is the best available and could develop in time. He has good technique and is in the right place at the right time.

32. Green Bay Packers: Cameron Heyward, DE Ohio State

They have a need on the outside of their defensive line and Heyward is the best pick there at this point. If someone else slips to this spot, like Watt they could go after him. The Packers could also go after Ayers if he is available, this pick is difficult because a lot happens in one round.

Bandwagon fans...maybe they're on to something? Cough Cough Boston Red Sox fans...

2011-03-11T14:53:00.000-08:00

Up until about a year ago I was the first person to hate on bandwagon fans. My general thinking was that you should support your team no matter what happens, if they stink it shouldn't matter, don't be a fan just because your team is winning...But I was listening to the radio a while back and heard something interesting that I decided I couldn't really disagree with...

The guy on the radio explained that bandwagon fans are actually the smartest type of fan there is...yes you read that right, they are GOOD fans...But how could that be? Isn't loyalty something important in sports? You love your team through thick and thin because they are yours. This guys argument took the loyalty idea and showed why you shouldn't support losing teams...like the Seattle Mainers for example. The idea is that organizations have no need to try to win if their fan base is going to stay loyal, go to games and buy merchandise. The owners and GMs are trying to make money, and if winning games helps then they will do that, but why worry about winning when you can make the same money, or more by being mediocre?

The other reason being over-faithful is a poor decision is that it allows the team to remain at the status quo. Why would they make changes when they are still loved? Think of it like this...You're married or dating someone and she loves you even though all you do is sit on the couch and watch TV. You don't have to put any work in, everything is great. Why would you ever want to change things?

Thats how it works with over-loyal fans. Bandwagon fans are more like this...You're in the relationship, everything is great and both people are working together and love is all around. But one day you think you can stop doing any work, you want to just sit on the couch and relax all day. But she is not going to let that happen, she gives you the choice, either improve or she's out. You need her so you will obviously make the changes needed for her.

In both cases you are the GM and she is the fan-base...now what would you want? The GM who has no reason to improve or the one who has to either make changes or they're done?...I want the GM to change if he's a loser.

To be clear I am not saying that championship chasers are smart fans...those people are just losers at life. I used to be one of those though..When I was young I was a Chicago Bulls fan while they won all of their titles, then when Jordan left I became a Houston Rockets fan as they won a championship. Same thing happened with the Atlanta Braves in baseball and the Tennessee Titans in the NFL...But I was young and didn't know any better and eventually learned.

There isn't much of a feedback area for fans who want to show their displeasure with a team, the only thing I can think of is with signs at the game, but then you've bought a ticket which gives more money to the money hungry GM. So why not ignore the team? Don't go to games, don't buy their products, just flat out don't support them. Eventually they will have to make a change in what they are doing or they will fall apart. Loyal fans fund their teams, but why would you pay for a failing product? Would you go to a movie you knew was going to be bad? NOPE, but you go to games and complain afterwards right?

I doubt many bandwagon fans are thinking about this when they jump on the bandwagon of a winning team...But it doesn't mean it is such a bad thing. My belief is that everyone has their favorite teams, mine are the M's, Hawks and Huskies...all teams who have had their ups and their downs...Especially the M's which has led me to not caring much about them. Are they still my favorite baseball team? Yes of course, and I will follow them, but I will not be buying any M's hats or shirts any time soon, and I won't be going to many games until they improve their organization. Same goes for the Seattle Seahawks and Washington Huskies...I am going to root for them in every single game, when they win I'll be the first to say something good about the win, but it doesn't mean I have to show my support for them every day.

When those teams are the talk of the town, I will be leading the charge there too, call me a bandwagon fan if you want to, but I will respond by calling you a ignorant fan of mediocrity.

The only fans I won't give this credit to are Boston Red Sox fans. Half of them never cared about baseball until the Sox won thw world series. The other half have legit reason's though to jump aboard the bandwagon, those who have lived in Boston forever and had their dreams crushed year in and year out.

Champion chacers are pansies, but bandwagon fans are geniuses...End of story.

Baseball America Top 100 prospects team by team breakdown

2011-03-09T19:29:00.000-08:00

Baseball America released their annual rankings for prospects 2 weeks ago here. In order to better compare teams I have gone through and listed the prospects by team along with their position and overall ranking. I take no credit for creating the rankings, just the division into teams alphabetically by city.

Team with top future: The Kansas City Royals are by far and away the team with the best looking prospects. They have the most players in the top 100, which includes 3 in the top 10, and 5 in the top 20. Also they expect 8/9 of these players to reach the majors in the next two years.
2nd place: Tampa Bay Rays: They have 7 in the top 100, many near the top 20.

Team without hope: The Milwaukee Brewers are the only team with zero players in the top 100. They have a solid young core of players at the Major League level, but if they can't win with what they have up there, it would be a very long rebuilding process.
2nd place: Florida Marlins, even though they have the young Michael Stanton already up, their only top prospect is outside of the top 100.

Major League Team # of pitchers/#of position players
Rank. Player, position. Age/Estimated arrival at Major League level

Arizona Diamondbacks 2/1
33. Jarrod Parker, rhp, 22/2012
82. Tyler Skaggs, lhp, 19/2013
99. Matt Davidson, 3b, 20/2013
Atlanta Braves 5/1
5. Julio Teheran, rhp, 19/2012
17. Freddie Freeman, 1b, 21/2011
35. Randall Delgado, rhp, 21/2012
37. Mike Minor, lhp, 23/2011
86. Craig Kimbrel, rhp, 22/2011
93. Arodys Vizcaino, rhp, 20/2013
Baltimore Orioles 1/1
14. Manny Machado, ss, 18/2013
28. Zach Britton, lhp, 23/2011
Boston Red Sox 2/1
52. Jose Iglesias, ss, 21/2012
67. Anthony Ranaudo, rhp, 21/2013
97. Drake Britton, lhp, 21/2013
Chicago Cubs 1/1
38. Brett Jackson, of, 22/2012
48. Trey McNutt, rhp, 21/2012
Chicago White Sox 2/1
20. Chris Sale, lhp, 22/2011
47. Alex White, rhp, 22/2011
85. Brent Morel, 3b/ss, 23/2011
Cincinnati Reds 1/3
7. Aroldis Chapman, lhp, 23/2011
50. Billy Hamilton, ss/2b, 20/2013
64. Devin Mesoraco, c, 22/2012
73. Yonder Alonso, 1b/of, 23/2011
Cleveland Indians 2/2
25. Lonnie Chisenhall, 3b, 22/2011
47. Alex White, rhp, 22/2011
54. Jason Kipnis, 2b, 23/2011
61. Drew Pomeranz, lhp, 22/2012
Colorado Rockies 1/2
32. Tyler Matzek, lhp, 20/2013
49. Wilin Rosario, c, 22/2012
80. Nolan Arenado, 3b, 19/2013
Detroit Tigers 2/1
21. Jacob Turner, rhp, 19/2012
65. Nick Castellanos, 3b, 19/2013
87. Andy Oliver, lhp, 23/2011
Florida Marlins 0/1
81. Matt Dominguez, 3b, 21/2011
Houston Astros 1/1
42. Jordan Lyles, rhp, 20/2011
94. Jonathan Villar, ss, 19/2013
Kansas City Royals 5/4
8. Eric Hosmer, 1b, 21/2012
9. Mike Moustakas, 3b, 22/2011
10. Wil Myers, of/c, 20/2012
18. John Lamb, lhp, 20/2012
19. Mike Montgomery, lhp, 21/2012
51. Christian Colon, ss, 21/2012
68. Danny Duffy, lhp, 22/2012
69. Jake Odorizzi, rhp, 21/2013
83. Chris Dwyer, lhp, 22/2012
Los Angeles Angels 1/2
2. Mike Trout, of, 19/2012
57. Jean Segura, 2b, 21/2013
76. Tyler Chatwood, rhp, 21/2012
Los Angeles Dodgers 2/1
26. Dee Gordon, ss, 22/2012
89. Zach Lee, rhp, 19/2013
90. Rubby de la Rosa, rhp, 22/2011
Milwaukee Brewers 0/0
No Players on list
Minnesota Twins 1/3
34. Kyle Gibson, rhp, 23/2011
45. Aaron Hicks, of, 21/2013
60. Miguel Sano, 3b/ss, 17/2014
100. Joe Benson, of, 23/2012
New York Mets 1/2
44. Jenrry Mejia, rhp, 21/2011
59. Wilmer Flores, ss, 19/2013
77. Cesar Puello, of, 19/2013
New York Yankees 3/3
3. Jesus Montero, c, 21/2011
30. Gary Sanchez, c, 18/2014
41. Manny Banuelos, lhp, 20/2012
43. Dellin Betances, rhp, 23/2012
78. Andrew Brackman, rhp, 25/2011
98. Austin Romine, c, 22/2011
Oakland Athletics 0/2
63. Grant Green, ss, 23/2012
91. Chris Carter, 1b/of, 24/2011
Philadelphia Phillies 2/2
4. Domonic Brown, of, 23/2011
39. Jonathan Singleton, 1b/of, 19/2013
56. Brody Colvin, rhp, 20/2013
70. Jarred Cosart, rhp, 20, 2013
Pittsburgh Pirates 2/1
11. Jameson Taillon, rhp, 19/2013
46. Tony Sanchez, c, 22/2012
79. Stetson Allie, rhp, 20/2013
San Diego Padres 2/1
31. Casey Kelly, rhp, 21/2012
58. Simon Castro, rhp, 22/2011
75. Anthony Rizzo, 1b, 21/2012
San Francisco Giants 1/1
23. Brandon Belt, 1b, 22/2011
55. Zack Wheeler, rhp, 20/2013
Seattle Mariners 1/2
12. Dustin Ackley, 2b, 23/2011
16. Michael Pineda, rhp, 22/2011
53. Nick Franklin, ss/2b, 20/2013
St. Louis Cardinals 1/1
13. Shelby Miller, rhp, 20/2012
62. Zack Cox, 3b, 21/2012
Tampa Bay Rays 4/3
6. Jeremy Hellickson, rhp, 23/2011
15. Matt Moore, lhp, 21/2013
22. Desmond Jennings, of, 24/2011
27. Chris Archer, rhp, 22/2012
71. Jake McGee, lhp, 24/2011
88. Josh Sale, of, 19/2013
92. Hak-Ju Lee, ss, 20/2013
Texas Rangers 2/1
24. Martin Perez, lhp, 19/2012
74. Jurickson Profar, ss, 18/2013
84. Tanner Scheppers, rhp, 24/2011
Toronto Blue Jays 2/2
29. Kyle Drabek, rhp, 23/2011
36. Travis d'Arnaud, c, 22/2012
40. Brett Lawrie, 2b, 21/2012
95. Deck McGuire, rhp, 21/2013
Washington Nationals 0/4
1. Bryce Harper, of, 18/2013
66. Danny Espinosa, ss/2b, 23/2011
72. Derek Norris, c, 22/2011
96. Wilson Ramos, c, 23/2011

MLB Preview, Key to success: Tampa Bay Rays

2011-03-09T15:05:00.000-08:00

My complete preview for the MLB season is here, today I will continue my team by team analysis of the player that is the most important to watch in the upcoming season. This isn't necessarily the best player, rather someone who's season is important for the team, or their growth as a player.

Tampa Bay Rays: B.J. Upton
It muse be a family thing, because Justin Upton was the Key to the Arizona Diamondbacks for the fear of turning into B.J. The older Upton came into the league with the hype that he would be hitting for power, stealing bases and have a good average. He was the number 2 prospect by Baseball America in 2004 at the age of 19! The problem is that he has never been able to live up to the hype, at least not for long stretches.

His first full season at the major league level was his best by far, he hit .300 with 24 home runs and 82 rbis, all highs for his career. He only stole 22 bases that season (has 40+ every year since), but the overall production has fallen substantially since that first season except for one small stretch when it looked like Upton was ready to take a leap into super-stardom.

That was the 2008 ALDS and ALCS, a stretch of 11 games where Upton carried the Rays into the World series by beating the Chicago White Sox and Boston Red Sox. In those 11 games Upton hit 7 home runs, had 15 rbis with a .304 batting average. The entire baseball world thought that he was finally going to live up to the hype as a legit power-speed-average player.

That wasn't the case, he followed up that season by posting consecutive averages of .241 and .237. He did hit 18 home runs last season, but because of his low average it was still a very underwhelming year.

The good news for Upton, he is still just 26 years old and has time to make something of his career, but another season like his last two may be the end of him. This season the Rays are expected to compete, and Upton is going to be hitting in the one or two hole, which means he needs to find a way to get on base.

The Rays lineup is not one that will scare opposing pitchers when other than Evan Longoria, there is no real difficult out. Upton apparently has the potential to be the guy who is feared by opposing pitchers, he has done it before, and with the loss of Carlos Pena, he will need to do it again this season. But I am unsure if it will ever be possible to predict Upton, his trend is all or nothing.

Upton has played 8 seasons of professional baseball between Major and Minor League. He has three seasons with an average at or above .300. In those seasons he has 3 of his top 4 home run totals. Meaning when he is hitting for a low average, he isn't hitting home runs either, which is an unusual trend. Most players average goes down the more home runs they hit, but Upton is the opposite.

Looking at that trend it shows that Upton is either hitting the ball very well, or not at all; there is no in-between. That makes any projections of Upton a crap-shoot, but what it does show is that him having a good year will be key to the Rays. If trends continues, a good year for him is going to be a complete season with power and average as well.

While his bat is a question mark, one thing that is sure is that Upton will be a top tier fielder. He hasn't won a Gold Glove, but he has been towards the top of the league in advanced fielding stats for the majority of his career.

In a tough division, the Rays will need their lineup to hit well all year long if they expect to compete. They have solid pitching, but in the American League East, hitting is what wins ball-games.

This year is also important for Upton because he has Desmond Jennings nipping at his heels for playing time. Jennings is the number 22 rated prospect this year by Baseball America, and was actually ranked 6th before last season. If Upton struggles, he may be benched to give Jennings a shot in Center field and in the lead-off spot. Jennings has less power potential, but more speed and average upside than Upton. There is clearly a future for both, but the Rays have plenty of young talent that will eventually get their shot.

Also manager Joe Maddon has already benched Upton before for not hustling, so him being benched to look at young talent seems like a reasonable possibility.

Others considered: The Rays have 7 players in the top 100 of Baseball Americas prospects, which is one of the highest totals in the league. These players have some developing to do, but they are the future of the Rays, the question is whether they will become Upton-like and never develop. Or they could become like Longoria or David Price and become some of the best in baseball...Price and Jeremy Helickson: Price has done it before with a dominating 2010 season, Helickson will be in his first full year, but has done very well at every level. If they are able to put together strong seasons, the Rays will be able to match up with any team in the American league. Both are young and with an increased work-load they may struggle, but they both have Cy Young upside.

Previous keys to their teams: Diamondbacks and Orioles. Red Sox and Braves Chicago White Sox and Chicago Cubs Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians Colorado Rockies and Detroit Tigers Florida Marlins and Kansas City Royals Los Angeles Angels and Kansas City Royals Minnesota Twins and Los Angeles Dodgers New York Yankees Milwaukee Brewers Oakland Athletics Seattle Mariners New York Mets Philadelphia Phillies

MLB Preview, Key to success: Philadelphia Phillies

2011-03-07T16:06:00.000-08:00

Philadelphia Phillies: Chase Utley

On a team as loaded with star power it's nearly impossible to say one player will make or break their season. The Phillies have about as many superstars as any other team in baseball, but Utley is the one guy whose success is the key to them going from very good to the best team in baseball.

Last season, Utley sprained his thumb causing him to miss all of July and half of August. In the month of July the Phillies went 15-13, which is decent, but goes to show the importance of having Utley in the lineup. I won't put the injury prone tag on Utley because it was the first time he has missed such a substantial time during a season. That being said he is getting older and it wouldn't be a surprise to see him on the DL again this year.

Utley was considered the best second basemen in baseball going into 2010, not only because of his hitting, but his glove as well. While he has never won a Gold Glove, he did win the Fielding Bible award in 2010.

Since becoming a full-time player in 2005, Utley has three seasons with more than 30 home runs, four 100+ Rbi seasons, five seasons with 13+ stolen bases, and never batted below .275 including two years above .300. Plain and simple, Utley is GOOD...Not just good, but he has been the best second basemen in baseball over the last six years. Only last year did Robinson Cano surpass him at the top.

That was just one season though and 2011 is there for Utley to take back the top spot and carry the Phillies to the World Series. They have several power hitters, several base stealers, but Utley is the one guy who can do it all, which is key for their lineup to produce.

Assuming he hits second or third, Utley has Shane Victorino in front of him, as well as possibly Jimmy Rollins. Those two guys are going to be on base a lot, having Utley to drive them in is important to the team. Behind Utley is Ryan Howard and Raul Ibanez; two guys with power, but not great averages. Having Utley on base in front of them will increase their run production as well as allow them to see better pitches.

You could argue that Utley isn't so important because Howard and Ibanez could just drive in the top two. That's true, but Utley is able to not only drive in the runs, but be one base for the sluggers to hit him in as well. If he can get back into his top form he would be a huge run producer for the Phillies.

The Phillies have one of the most amazing rotations I have ever seen. They have two guys who are Cy Young candidates every year in Roy Halladay and Cliff Lee, then they have two guys who would be aces on almost any other team. Cole Hamels and Roy Oswalt will be over-shadowed, but they could end up with the best numbers of the bunch. Joe Blanton is the number 5, and he is the kind of pitcher that any team in baseball would love. He'll pitch lots of innings and have a solid era.

Because of this dominant rotation, the Phillies don't need to score tons of runs to be one of the best teams in baseball. But they do have a good lineup which can take a lot of pressure off of their rotation. If they can give early leads, the starters can limit their stress and keep their arm healthy for the playoffs.

Others Considered: Jimmy Rollins was considered, but I think he is pretty much done. Age has caught up with him and his bat is not what it used to be. That being said, they have Victorino who will fill in fine at the lead-off spot...I also considered the bull-pen, namely, Brad Lidge. He has been up and down for the last few years and he'll need to pitch well in order to assure the Phillies get all the wins they can. He may get a lot of action this season as the closer, but he'll need to be more consistent if he wants to keep the closer role.

Previous keys to their teams: Diamondbacks and Orioles. Red Sox and Braves Chicago White Sox and Chicago Cubs Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians Colorado Rockies and Detroit Tigers Florida Marlins and Kansas City Royals Los Angeles Angels and Kansas City Royals Minnesota Twins and Los Angeles Dodgers New York Yankees Milwaukee Brewers Oakland Athletics Seattle Mariners New York Mets

MLB Preview, Key to success: New York Mets

2011-03-06T12:18:00.000-08:00

New York Mets: Mark Rogow/Jason Craig

For the second time, it's a non-player, but looking over the Mets, they are one heck of a mess. Rogow is the Coordinator of Medical Services and Craig is the Strength and Conditioning coordinator; two guys who look like they will have plenty of work this season.

The Mets the last few years have been one of the most injury riddled teams in the league. I don't blame these two men for that, but this year will likely be no different than the last few years because the same injury plagued players are coming back.

Carlos Beltran has had knee problems for the last two seasons, which has caused him to play in just 81 and 64 games in those seasons. Just a few years ago he was a 40 home rune 100 rbis batter, but injuries have derailed his career. He is still bothered by knee injuries, so chances are he will miss time again in 2011.

Jose Reyes had stolen 56+ bases in 4 seasons in a row up until the 2009 season. That was when injuries set in to slow him down. In 2009, Calf injuries kept him out of the majority of the season, then in 2010 he found out he had a thyroid problem which forced him to stop baseball activities. He eventually made it back, and played well for the Mets, but still he has question marks due to the recent injuries.

Luis Castillo is old, but also injury prone as well. In the last 3 years, he has played in under 90 games twice. Some of that was due to lack of production, but he also spent time on the disabled list both years. He is getting up there in age, but the Mets expect him to start. I doubt that happens, and I think he will be out of the lineup sooner than later.

Jason Bay isn't exactly injury prone, he has had just one year since becoming a full-time player in which he played fewer than 145 games. That was last year when he missed the final 2 months from a concussion. Head injuries are unpredictable, and it is tough to tell what the impact could be on his play this season. The Mets will need him to step up because he is one of their better hitters that isn't a major injury risk.

Francisco Rodriguez isn't normally much of an injury plagued player. But he did miss a month and a half due to a torn ligament in his thumb suffered in an off-field altercation with his girlfriends dad. He has been able to throw and is expected to start the season in the closer role, but hand injuries are dangerous for pitchers, especially a closer who has a generally violent delivery.

2 years ago Johan Santana was the last person anyone would point to as injury prone; he had started 33+ games in 5 years in a row. Then in 2009 he was fine until late August when the injury questions showed up.

He missed the entire month of September because of surgery to remove bone chips in his throwing elbow. 2010 was similar because he was healthy until the final month of the season. Then he got hurt and needed surgery to repair his shoulder. That injury is still a problem and Santana isn't expected to join the team until the second half of the season.

When he pitches, Santana is one of the best in baseball; his worst era since 2002 was 3.33. Also in that time he has posted 6 seasons with an era below 3. He may be the best pitcher over that time period, but injuries have put question marks on his future.

After naming these 6 players, there is only 1 star left on the team, David Wright, who is likely not to miss any games, and be the only player who is consistently producing for the Mets.

If everything were to go right, and none of these players went to the DL, the Mets would be a contender. They are some of the best players in baseball, but I see no way they can remain healthy for an entire season. They may not all get hurt, and likely it won't happen at the same time, but the loss of players of such a high caliber would be deadly...Again.

Washington Huskies senior night, Thank you MBA, Holiday and Venoy

2011-03-05T15:53:00.000-08:00

Tonight the Huskies face USC in their season finale. The game itself may end up being meaningless as far as standings go, but for Husky fans it will be a farewell to a senior class that has done some great things for the program.

This senior class was part of a Pac10 regular season championship, a Pac10 tournament championship, 2 NCAA tournament appearances, as well as a sweet 16 appearance. Thats without whatever they may do to finish off this season.

Matthew Bryan-Amaning is one of the most entertaining players I have ever watched, but at the same time the most frustrating. I will never forget the flying Tea-Bag against Stanford last season, it was magical. When there is a fast break, he automatically becomes the fastest player on the court, he wants the highlight dunk. When he gets it, he is going to bring the house down and light a fire under his teammates.

Then there are those times when I can't watch him play. The easy lay ins that bounce out all game long. Maybe it isn't because he misses easy ones, it is because he makes them look easier than they are. His athleticism and ball skills are tough to beat, and when he is on, he is tough to stop.

An unofficial nickname some friends and I have for him is the Bear. He just plays like a beast and you never know when he'll explode during the game. It's bound to happen, but his ferocity and beastliness are off the charts.

Justin Holiday is the kind of player who was unnoticed up until the end of last season. That doesn't mean he wasn't doing big things for the team, he just wasn't getting any attention. The lock down defender role Holiday has played at Washington has been huge for the Huskies. He can take away the opponents best scorers for long stretches in the game. He plays with a high motor and intensity that is impossible to coach.

He has gotten more credit this season as his offense has progressed. At times he may turn the ball over, but his presence on the offensive side has been a huge boost for the Huskies. He is the quiet third scorer for the team, but has also been able to keep his intensity on defense.

My fondest memory of Holiday will be what he does following every post-game press conference. As he walks out he says "You all have a good night," which doesn't seem like a big deal, but it just shows the kind of man he is off the court.

Venoy Overton is the one of these three that fans have loved for his entire career. Not that Matt or Justin weren't playing their roles, they just weren't on the level that V.O. was. When he comes into the game, the entire tempo changes. The opposing guards are know they are going to have him all over them all the way up the court. He will go after the ball and isn't afraid to foul. When he goes into a game he always has an impact, even as a 6th man, Venoy is able to be one of the leaders of the team.

Other than just defense, Overton runs the offense in a way that looks like it is out of control, but really is just based purely on quickness. He gets the ball into the front court in just seconds, and tries to make a drive right off of the bat. When he doesn't have it he slows it down and makes the smart play. He's also the Huskies closer, whether at the free throw line, or making a full court run to the hoop, he makes plays when it counts.

The first time I ever broke the no cheering as press was because of Venoy. Against WSU the steal at mid-court on the inbounds pass had be jumping up and down clapping. Oops I guess?

I came to UW the same time as these 3, and the legacy they will leave behind is a great one. The Washington program is near the top, and it is in large part to this senior class. We'll see how the season wraps up, but if the past tells us anything, the Huskies are bound to make a run.

The Huskies have some good recruits coming in to try to fill the shoes of the seniors. I doubt we'll have them all for their senior night in a few years, but ya never know. Tony Wroten Jr. may end up staying and dominating the conference for all 4 years.

Quick prediction: Washington-81 USC-64

MLB Preview, Key to success: Seattle Mariners

2011-03-05T14:20:00.000-08:00

MLB Preview, Key to success: Oakland Athletics

2011-03-04T12:02:00.000-08:00

Quick side note: I'm going to go one team at a time, but still put two up per day. This gives more space for each team, and easier for sort-ability.

MLB Preview, Key to success: Milwaukee Brewers

2011-03-04T11:34:00.000-08:00

Thursday Pac-10 predictions: UCLA @ UW, OSU @ Arizona, Oregon @ ASU, USC @ WSU

2011-03-03T15:34:00.000-08:00

Big night for the Pac10 tonight with the champion still to be determined. UCLA has a tough test heading to Washington, but can they handle it and keep their hopes alive? Arizona hosts an Oregon State team that beat them at home, maybe that gives them confidence for another win?

My picks:
Washington-86 UCLA-79
Oregon State-58 Arizona-82
ASU-71 Oregon-64
WSU-71 USC-67

Quick added note about the upset prediction in Seattle: While the Bruins come in hot, I think Hec Ed will be too much to handle for the Bruins. Josh Smith returns home and will be the target of the Dawg Pack, that should be a major factor in the game tonight. If he can find a way to put the jeers out of his mind, I expect a big game from him, which should keep it close, but still won't be enough for UCLA to win. They are talented, but Washington comes in desperate and mad, that's how they play best. Nothing would surprise me tonight though, a blow out by either team is possible, but a good close game would be helpful for each team as they prep for the post-season.

MLB Preview, Key to success: New York Yankees

2011-03-03T15:28:00.000-08:00

MLB Preview, Key to success: Minnesota Twins and Los Angeles Dodgers

2011-03-02T17:00:00.000-08:00

My complete preview for the MLB season is here, today I will continue my team by team analysis of the player that is the most important to watch in the upcoming season. This isn't necessarily the best player, rather someone who's season is important for the team, or their growth as a player.

Minnesota Twins: Francisco Liriano
Just a few years back, Liriano burst onto the scene for the Twins with some ridiculous numbers. In his first full season he struck out well over a batter an inning, had a WHIP of exactly 1, and his ERA was 2.16 over 121 innings. He was supposed to become one of the best in baseball, and supplant Johan Santana as the ace of the team.

Thats when his career took a turn for the worst after an elbow injury. He needed Tommy John surgery before the 2007 season, which forced him to miss the entire year. He started the 2009 season at the majors, but was awful, he was sent down after posting an 11.32 era in 3 starts. He dominated in the minors and came back up and pitched well in the end of the 2009 season.

Last season Liriano pitched well, but didn't dominate like he did when he first came into the league. He struck out over a batter per inning, but his ERA was 3.62 and his whip 1.26, good numbers but sabermetrics tell the whole story.

Liriano was the 8th best pitcher based on WAR. He was a 6 win player, just below Adam Wainwright, and ahead of stars such as Zack Greinke and CC Sabathia.

It is clear that Liriano has the stuff to be one of the best pitchers in baseball, but coming off the injury he has been wildly inconsistent. This season is his second full year at the Majors since the surgery and he should be one hundred percent, and pitching at his highest level. That is assuming that he can get back to his old form, something that may never happen.

The Twins have several innings eaters in their rotation, but no one who can win a game on his own, except for Liriano. He should be going out every 5 days and giving the twins a good shot to win the game. If he can do that, the Twins have a decent shot at winning the division.

Liriano has the upside of being the best pitcher in the division, last year he was second behind the Detroit Tigers Justin Verlander. While Verlander has a better history of being great, I see Liriano with more potential. These two could be difference makers in a wide open division race.

If Liriano can post numbers like last season, or better even, I think the Twins will be contending for the division. If he is hurt, or pitches poorly, the Twins have no show this year.

Others considered: Joe Mauer: He has had injury problems in the past, but when he is healthy he is the best hitting catcher in baseball. He is the key to this teams lineup which is evident by his 2009 MVP award...Justin Morneau: his balky back caused him to miss half of the 2010 season, and in previous years he's missed some time as well. When he is in the lineup he's a great asset, but I question his ability to come back and produce this season.

Los Angeles Dodgers: Matt Kemp
This time last year Kemp was being talked up as a potential 40-40 guy and someone who could turn into of the best hitters in baseball. He couldn't have been the complete opposite...

He hit 28 home runs, which was a career high, but his average was a pitiful .249. He also stole only 19 bases, getting caught 15 times, he also struck out 30 times more than in 2009. His struggles were a big reason that the Dodgers weren't able to compete in the NL west. They were just 2 games under .500, but finished in 4th place in their division.

Kemp put on a lot of weight going into last year, which was supposed to add to his power. Instead it took away his speed, killed his contact and added just 2 home runs. Not the results he or the Dodgers were hoping for.

This season he comes in and needs to focus on hitting for a better average, and let his natural power get the ball out of the park. He has the skill set to be a high average player, which is evident in his .342 average over 98 games in 2007. His power numbers weren't great, but he was just 22 years old at the time.

As a 26 year old, and the likely 3 hitter, this is the year where Kemp needs to shine for the Dodgers. They lack any other true power hitter in their lineup, yet they have several very good bats. Andre Ethier is a potential for more power, but he's only hit more than 23 home runs one time in his career.

The Dodgers are a solid team as a whole, but unless they have some star power they won't be winning any titles this year. Kemp is that possible superstar, he just needs to figure it all out.

Rumors swirled that he wasn't working hard last year and that he didn't seem to care too much. I wonder if that was Manny Ramirez rubbing off on him. Manny could do it, Matt apparently could not. This season Kemp is the big dog on the team, and he is the difference between the Dodgers being a decent team, or them challenging for the NL West crown.

Others considered: Jonathan Broxton: He was supposed to be a sure-thing, lock down closer last year. But he had problems all year long and was removed from the closer role several times. He is back in as the closer, but the question remains if he can be a top level closer...Rafael Furcal: He's battled injuries for the majority of the last 4 years, but when he has played he has been one of the best lead-off men in baseball. He looks to be healthy, but he is getting older and the chances of him being on the DL seem high, if that happens the Dodgers may struggle...Chad Billingsley and Clayton Kershaw: The two young pitchers could become one of the better 1-2 punches in baseball. While Kershaw has developed into a true ace, Billingsley has taken a step back, he needs to rebound this year to help anchor the staff.

Previous keys to their teams: Diamondbacks and Orioles. Red Sox and Braves Chicago White Sox and Chicago Cubs Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians Colorado Rockies and Detroit Tigers Florida Marlins and Kansas City Royals Los Angeles Angels and Kansas City Royals

MLB Preview, Key to success: Los Angeles Angels and Houston Astros

2011-03-01T19:16:00.000-08:00

My complete preview for the MLB season is here, today I will continue my team by team analysis of the player that is the most important to watch in the upcoming season. This isn't necessarily the best player, rather someone who's season is important for the team, or their growth as a player.

Los Angeles Angels: Kendry Morales
A season ago he appeared well on his way to a second consecutive 30 home run, 100 rbi season. That was when one of the more bizzare sports moments ever happened. He hit a walk off home run against the Seattle Mariners in late May. He rounded the bases and when he got to home plate, he collapsed amidst a mob of teammates.

Morales broke his leg during the celebration, which sidelined him for the rest of the season. The Angels were already struggling at that point, but the loss of their best power hitter proved to be the nail in the coffin of their season.

With opening day a month away, there is a possibility Morales may not be ready, but Angels Manager Mike Scioscia is confident he will be ready to go. That may mean as the designated hitter, but his bat in the lineup is very important to the success of the team.

The Angels lack proven veteran hitters, and even if Morales only has one full season, the other veterans in the lineup are all well past their primes. Torii Hunter, Bobby Abreu and Vernon Wells have had success at different times in their careers, but they are all over 32 years old. Wells is coming off of a career year, but that was preceded by three years that he played very poorly. Abreu and Hunter are power speed guys who have lost a lot of both their power and speed, which takes away from their value in the middle of the lineup.

That leave Morales to be the teams big bat, something he is perfectly capable of doing. The Angels let Mark Teixiera leave for the New York Yankees in the belief that Morales would be able to be just as good. He has not disappointed, and I think the future is bright for the 27 year old.

He has really no downside as a hitter, his average is very good, he doesn't strike out much, and he has a decent eye as well. His health shouldn't be judged by last season, the injury was a freak thing that I doubt happens again. Maybe he is injury-prone, but it is too soon to make a judgement on that.

The key to Morales is whether he is able to get his timing back and be an anchor in their lineup. I expect that to happen, but it may take a month or so before he fully finds his stride again. Once he does so, expect him to become one of the premier hitters in the game, not just for power, but also his high average and on base percentages.

Others considered: Fernando Rodney: Last season he was dominant at times in the set-up role, but other times he struggled. He has the closer role as of now, but if he isn't able to keep the ball in the strike zone the Angels may be forced to replace him...Dan Haren: Which Haren will they get, the one they had last season who was dominant, or the one who started the year poorly for the Arizona Diamondbacks? He could be a second ace for the team, but there is the downside there that he is unable to pitch to his potential like the first half of 2010.

Houston Astros: J.A. Happ
Last season the Astros decided they were going to plan for the future. That involved dealing Roy Oswalt to the Philadelphia Phillies, Happ was the top player the Astros got back. He stepped in quickly for the Astros by starting 13 games with a 3.75 ERA in 72 innings.

He went back and forth between reliever and starter for the Phillies, but he appears to be locked into the starting rotation in Houston. Happ is listed as the number 3 starter behind Wandy Rodriguez and Brett Myers, two guys who have had some consistency problems in the past, but are a solid head of the rotation.

Happ is an important player for the Astros because while he doesn't have a lot of Major League experience, he is 28 years old, which is usually around when a pitcher hits his prime. His career has been an odd one, but considering he has pitched just 289 major league innings over four years of professional baseball, he should be set to put together a full season.

That could also be a down-side to Happ. The Astros would like to get 180+ innings from him, but he doesn't have the history of being able to do that. He has always had a good ERA, low walk totals, and low strike out totals. Those things should help him achieve a high inning season, but he could very easily hit a wall in the second half of the year.

The division is wide open at this point, especially because of the injury to Adam Wainwright. While the Cincinnati Reds may be the favorite, they have question marks in their rotation. I think Happ could be the determining factor in the Astros having the best 1-2-3 in the NL Central.

Their one-two punch is pretty mediocre, especially compared to the other teams in the division. But the other number 3 starters in the Central are Bronson Arroyo, Shaun Marcum, Jake Westbrook, Carlos Zambrano, and Kevin Correia. I would put my trust in Happ before any of those five, but that's assuming he can remain healthy.

The Astros don't have the hitting to compete just yet, but Happ will help them be competitive this season and possibly into the future. He has the stuff to be a number 2 starter at some point down the road. This season he needs to build his innings tolerance and be reliable for the entirety of the season. If he can do that, and pitch to his potential, he could be a key player down the road as the Astros try to rebuild with young talent.

Others considered: Hunter Pence: I love this guy, he's going to hit about 25 home runs, steal about 15 bases, and hit about .280. Write it down and just watch him do it every year. I see him improving some this season, but a steady bat like his is very important to a young soft hitting team...Carlos Lee: El Caballo is on his last legs, last season was his first since 2004 without 100 rbi's, which is amazing. But he is a big guy and is 34 years old, he may have some left in the tank, but this year he needs to prove that.

Previous keys to their teams: Diamondbacks and Orioles. Red Sox and Braves Chicago White Sox and Chicago Cubs Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians Colorado Rockies and Detroit Tigers Florida Marlins and Kansas City Royals

Top Sports Memory: Number 1: 2005 Seattle Seahawks, NFC champions

2011-03-01T12:50:00.000-08:00

If you have anything you want to add to my memory feel free to comment, if you want give me your top 5, I expect everyone's to be different.

Honorable Mentions: David Tyree's Catch...Kevin Dyson comes up 1 yard short...Giants commit 11 False Starts...IMA Game of the Century

Number 5: 2001 Huskies beat the Canes in explosive Husky Stadium

Number 4: Antonio Freeman did WHAT?1?

Number 3: The BeastQuake in Seattle

Number 2: '95 Mariners; the Double

Number 1

2005 Seahawks; NFC Champions:

This isn't just one game...it is the entire season. A season so amazing that it makes the list twice when you throw in the Giants game in my honorable mentions. That Seahakws team is one that I will remember forever, they weren't flashy, they weren't the best team to ever play, but man were they a great football team.

Mike Holmgren had the offensive philosophy that he would run a play, you would know it was coming, but you wouldn't stop it. That play was Shaun Alexander running over the Left Tackle behind Walter Jones and Steve Hutchinson. Alexander wasn't a back that made you say wow, he wasn't going to break many tackles, but he was going to find the holes and get to the end zone or first down, ever single time.

As a matter of fact, the Hawks converted every single 3rd and 1 play that season. My guess is that they ran the ball on 95 percent of those plays as well, but they couldn't be stopped.

I went to every single game that season, saw them dominate opponents at home and going 8-0 in Qwest. The Hawks started a measly 2-2 including an overtime loss in Washington. But they followed that up by winning their next 11 games. Their only loss was a meaningless game against the Packers that they probably could have won, but lost 23-17.

Alexander broke the NFL record for touch downs in a season that year, he scored 28 of them...a record that was broken not long after by LaDainam Tomlinson.

The reason I put this number one on my list is because of all of my memories this is the one that is about a team that achieved just about everything they could have achieved. They fell short in the Super Bowl, which I will get to, but they ROLLED through the regular season, and the playoffs was even more of a breeze. They wont their playoff games by scores of 20-10 and 34-14...both games I was at.

I have heard from some people that the Hawks in 05 weren't that good of a team, they point to a down year in the NFL as the only reason the Hawks won 13 games and an NFC Championship. I will defend this team to my grave, they were good, very good, and to be honest they were hands down the best team in the league that season.

Their offense was methodical, they took their time driving down the field with Alexander, but they also had Hasslebeck under center who could make just about any throw needed. Their top 3 receivers, Darrell Jackson, Bobby Engram and Joe Jurevicius were not guys who were well known around the league, but they were somewhat reliable and made the big catches at the right times. The same could not be said for Stone Hands Jerramy Stevens, who I will never forgive for his drops.

The Hawks also had a good enough Defense to make sure games weren't shoot-outs. They weren't going to be record setters by any means, but they were a solid bunch that made plays when they needed to and gave the offense chances to win games.

Now on to the Super Bowl...I am torn on how to describe my feelings on this one...I don't want to blame the refs, and I won't...at least not in full, but because the head referee from the game Bill Leavy said he "Kicked two calls in the fourth quarter and impacted the game", I think I have to point out that the Hawks got the short end of the stick...

The Super Bowl was one that no one outside of Seattle or Pittsburgh probably cared much about, the Hawks play in South Alaska and the Steelers are a team not many people seem to like...Going into the game I thought the Hawks had a legit shot to beat the Steelers, and they did, but as Holmgren said, they couldn't beat the refs too...Here is a great video explaining the calls that were questionable at best:

The video shows the pass interference that was ticky tack. I think it is an OK call, but really how many times does something like that happen in an NFL game? There is more contact than that on almost every single pass...heck take a look at this video for comparison to another play in the game that drew no flags..even if it isn't PI, it's at least illegal contact of some sort...

The next call that comes to mind, that isn't in the video is the ILLEGAL BLOCK called on Hasslebeck while he made a tackle...wait what? Yes, it is true and makes no sense at all. Hasslebeck dove at the knees to make a tackle, and made the tackle, but somehow had an illegal block called on him. Anyone who can explain that one to me, be my guest!

The Touchdown for Big Ben is iffy..I still don't think he got in, but there wasn't enough evidence to overturn the call. The problem I do have with the call is that the line judge didn't signal TD until Ben put the ball over the line while laying on the turf clearly down. If he got in it was during the dive, but NOT when he was laying on the ground...One pretty big kicker on this one...it was a THIRD Down play. The Steelers would've had to kick a field goal.

The holding call is mentioned in the video above, but what isn't said is that it is holding and offsides, therefor the penalties would offset and the pass to the 2 wouldn't count anyways. But it would have given the Hawks a better opportunity because they wouldn't have lost 10 yards. Although I think the holding flag wouldn't have been thrown had the offsides flag been thrown instead...but I really can't say.

That is my rant on the bad calls, but the Hawks still had their chances and lost the game. They didn't play well, didn't execute and it killed them. However this is supposed to be a good memory right? Which it is...This team was fun to watch, and they were the closest to a champion that I have ever seen in Seattle. I will remember this season for as long as I live, because it brought success to the city of Seattle, and even ended with plenty of controversy.

MLB Preview, Key to success: Florida Marlins and Kansas City Royals

2011-02-28T16:33:00.000-08:00

Kansas City Royals: Mike Jirschele

I'm guessing most people don't have a clue who this guy is, if you do, props to you. He is the manager of the Omaha Storm Chasers, the AAA affiliate of the Royals. So maybe he isn't a player, and he isn't technically on the Royals, but that doesn't mean he isn't the most important person in their organization right now.

The Royals are bad, and looking through their major league roster, I don't see a whole lot of upside. The best player on their team is Billy Butler, who appears to be nothing more than a solid average, medium power guy. From a DH/1B, that is not anything special, it's towards the bottom of the league at the position.

Jirchele is important because the Royals farm system is loaded with some of the best prospects in baseball. Using Baseball Americas recent top 100, the Royals have nine in the top hundred, including five of the top 20 and three in the top 10. No other team seems to match up with the prospect power the Royals have.

Their top 5 include 1b Eric Hosner, 3b Mike Moustakas, OF/C Will Myers, LHP John Lamb, and LHP Mike Montgomery. Having prospects that are highly touted is great, but most prospects seem to be more hype than actual production.

There hasn't been much to talk about with the Royals the last few years. They have had some decent prospects before, but they never make much noise. Maybe the lower systems are to blame, or maybe it is their Major League office messing things up.

Jirchele has been around for quite some time as the AAA manager, so maybe he is not doing a very good job. It is difficult to tell whether they have had prospects who just weren't ever going to be good, or if they never had a chance to develop. This year it looks as if they have legitimate prospects, so it will be a good season to judge if the Royals should continue to rely on Jirchele.

This is why the minor league system is so important for the Royals. If they can help in the growth of their prospects, they could be competing in the next 3-5 seasons. They have been bad for a long time, but this could be their chance to make a push to be relevant again. Look at what the Tampa Bay Rays have done the last few years, they built their team from the inside and became a contender, and almost won a World Series.

The Royals need to try to do the same, but they must remain patient and smart. If they get greedy and bring guys up before they're ready it could be kill their maturation process. Rome wasn't built in a day, and the Royals contending won't happen in a day either.

Others considered: The Royals scouting director, their player management guys, their GM: These guys all have an impact on what is done with their young talent, but I think the AAA manager, and the AA manager will be most important...Billy Butler: He is the only guy on the team I see with a real bright future, he has had some success, but may turn out to be nothing more than an average hitter with average power.

Florida Marlins: Michael Stanton

As an 18 year old, Stanton hit 39 home runs in 125 A ball games, the following season he split between AA and high A, settling for just 28 home runs in 129 games. Then last season he started the year off in AA, where he hit 21 home runs in just 53 games, which led all of professional baseball at the time.

The Marlins decided enough was enough, and they called the 20 year old up to the majors. He proceeded to hit 22 home runs in just 100 games. If he kept that pace for 162 games, he would have finished the year with 35 home runs. For a 20 year old to have numbers like that is insane, but it was not a fluke.

He is a physical freak, at 6-5, 233 pounds, Stanton's power is legit and could only get better. He struggled to with contact in his first year, hitting just .259 with 123 strike outs (199.3 per 162 games). That is to be expected though for someone as young as Stanton.

This season he will be starting in right field for the Marlins and will likely end up hitting 3rd or 4th. That could be a lot of pressure for the young kid, but he hasn't struggled at any point in his career, so why would this year be any different?

With Hanley Ramirez in the lineup, Stanton will see good pitches, also he will have guys on base very frequently. The Marlins have several young contact hitters that will be atop their lineup which will be very good for Stanton. Gaby Sanchez is another guy who could help Stanton; he is older than Stanton, but has very few games played at the Major League level. He should hit for some power, which would let Stanton see more pitches.

While he is still young, this year is important for Stanton because it will be his first full year in the majors. Pitchers will have a better idea how to pitch to him this time around. He hasn't seen very many pitchers more than once in his career, so that could catch up with him. If he is able to make adjustments and keep his power numbers up, he could quickly turn into one of the better power bats in the league.

Also his average is a question mark that he needs to answer. He could go two ways, either into an Adam Dunn clone, hitting 40 hrs with a .250 avg, or a legit power hitter like Barry Bonds.

Others considered: The Marlins entire rotation has some proving to do. They are a relatively young bunch, but all have seen some sort of success. Most notably is Josh Johnson who started the 2010 season on fire, but cooled off to end the year. Also Ricky Nolasco was the opposite, he started awful, but closed the season on a high note. Their lineup is also young with upside, it will be interesting to see how they develop as a team, I wouldn't be surprised to see them contend as soon as this season.

Previous keys to their teams: Diamondbacks and Orioles. Red Sox and Braves Chicago White Sox and Chicago Cubs Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians Colorado Rockies and Detroit Tigers

Sunday Six: the week in review

2011-02-27T15:31:00.000-08:00

Another week in the books, more sports to be discussed. This week there were some repeating stories, but also one story that shook up the entire make-up of the National League.

1. Adam Wainwright to have season ending Tommy John Surgery:
My full story here; but since that time the rumors that have swirled have been all over the place. The most important may be the discussion that the Cardinals may be forced to trade Albert Pujols. I want to put an end to that, because I think there is no way on earth the Cardinals could do such a thing.

Pujols is the best player in baseball and in my opinion, the most dominant in all of sports. Trading him would be the worst PR move the Cardinals could ever make, even if they know they had no chance to re-sign him, and were able to get a great package for him, it still would be an awful move. He is the face of the team, fans love him, and the money he brings in likely out-weighs his cost.

Back to Wainwright and what it means... His absence makes the Cardinals rotation go from one of the best in the NL to probably the second worst in their own division. There aren't any pitchers worth going after in the free agent market, trading for one also would be tough, so they are left with what they have. Someone may step up and pitch out of their mind, but replacing Wainwright is going to be impossible.

2. Arizona is falling apart, giving hope to UCLA and Washington:
A week ago, the Arizona Wildcats had beaten the Washington Huskies, which gave them a firm hold on the Pac-10 championship. With 4 games remaining they had a solid lead, all they had to do was win a few more games and they were golden.

That's when they headed to Los Angeles to play USC and UCLA. They dropped both games, including a 22 point loss yesterday to the second place UCLA Bruins. With the losses, they have fallen into a tie with UCLA, and are just a game and a half ahead of Washington.

Lucky for Arizona, they have the easiest schedule left of the three teams. They face Oregon State and Oregon this week, both games at home, where they haven't lost this season. They did lose to Oregon State on the road earlier this season, but that was a one point game, and was their second conference game of the year. If they win both games, they will clinch at least share of the title.

The UCLA Bruins have a tough week ahead of them as they head to Washington for their two final games. First, this Thursday they play Washington, which is going to be a huge test. Both teams are fighting for not only the conference title, but an easier first round game in the conference tournament. If UCLA wins both games, they will share the title, no need for any help by the Oregon schools. Saturday they head to Pullman to face the Cougars, which will be a test as well. The Cougars will be trying to play spoilers, plus they play well most of the time at home, that game is anyones.

The Washington Huskies have three games left, all at home, but all against good basketball teams. Even if they do win all three games, they could end up in second place in the Pac10, which they will take, but it isn't a championship. The Huskies are a team that can come out and beat anyone on any night, but if they aren't hitting their shots, they will lose. At home, they win, end of story, but this week will not be easy for the Huskies.

Any of the three could end up on top, but in the end I expect all to be in the NCAA tournament, and also surprise the nation. March can't come soon enough.

3. NFL Draft preview/Combine:
I plan to write a more complete story this week about the NFL draft and talking about the combine. But it has been a major part of the last week, and I couldn't leave it out.

The whole process seems weird to me, it is like parading around show-dogs and teams pick the winners. Measurables in my opinion are very overrated. I think watching a kid play football and seeing their game-film is the most important thing. Even though GM's don't go only on how fast or strong someone is, I think the overall process is too much pomp and circumstance.

4. The NBA trade deadline:
As I have said, the NBA is not my thing, it is drawn out, and overall just seems boring. Nonetheless, the trade deadline came and went, and there were plenty of moves that happened, some were a long-time coming and others were out of left field.

The first, and most notable trade was Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups going to the New York Knicks. Obviously, there was more to it, but Carmelo has been on the outs in Denver for quite some time. It was inevitable that he would be moved, and then he finally was. He has played good for the Knicks so far, the question of how Amare Stoudemire would react has been asked. So far so good, but both guys want to score, and at some point that may become an issue.

The Boston Celtics upset their fans when they sent away Kendrick Perkins and Nate Robinson in return for Jeff Green and Nenad Krstic plus some draft picks as well. The trade does not appear to make them better at this point, but the fans are just wondering why they made the deal. It looked like they would be able to stand pat and be good enough to make a run again in the playoffs. The Celtics didn't think so, but it may be a while before we know if they made a good move.

NBA trades are mostly just moving money and salaries around, so in the end judging these trades is impossible to do without looking deeper into the numbers. That is something I won't do, because I dislike the NBA, but thats probably already clear.

5. Who's number one?
Last week the tops teams in NCAA basketball all seemed to fall. In fact the top 4 all did lose, which gave Duke the free pass to the number one ranking. They did not make the most of that opportunity by losing last night to Virginia Tech. It was a close game, but at this point, that loss is going to drop them a few spots indefinably, but who will be number one?

My bet is on Ohio State, who won both of their games last week. But so did Kansas, so it could be either one. They will be number 1 and 2, but based on the voters selections last week, I assume Kansas will not leap-frog the Buckeyes.

After those two, it is again cloudy. the next 3 teams all lost this week, Pittsburgh, Texas and San Diego State had opportunities to move into the top 3, but they weren't able to win twice last week.

BYU, the 7th ranked team may move all the way up to number 3 in the nation. Thanks to Jimmer Freddette, they went into San Diego State and won in convincing fashion. Duke could hold on to their top 3 ranking, but I think BYU deserves to be ahead of them after winning a huge conference game, on the road, against the 6th ranked team in the nation.

6. NFL Labor Dispute:
I wrote an earlier story here, and really not all that much has changed. But what has happened is the deadline has come closer, when it comes, something must happen. That deadline is Thursday at 11:59 P.M., which is when the CBA expires, but it could be moved by the owners if they decide to give the players more time.

If it comes and goes with no agreement, the players will be locked out. I think the deadline will be extended and eventually a deal will be worked out. It would be a major loss for both the players and owners to take a season off. Both sides know this, but one has to budge.

I think the players will be the ones needing to budge to make the deal work. They need the years salary more than the owners do, they also have a shelf life before they will be retiring, meaning they need to make the money now. I am on the players side of things, but the owners hold more cards than the players do, and usually the one with the better cards ends up on top.

My hope as a fan is that we see football next Fall, a year without NFL games would be a tough pill to swallow.

Top Sports Memory: Number 2

2011-02-27T10:19:00.000-08:00

If you have anything you want to add to my memory feel free to comment, if you want give me your top 5, I expect everyone's to be different.

Honorable Mentions: David Tyree's Catch...Kevin Dyson comes up 1 yard short...Giants commit 11 False Starts...IMA Game of the Century

Number 5: 2001 Huskies beat the Canes in explosive Husky Stadium

Number 4: Antonio Freeman did WHAT?1?

Number 3: The BeastQuake in Seattle

Number 2

1995 Seattle Mariners: The Double:

I have said before that I can't say a single bad thing about the 95 Mariners, but I have thought of something I would change...well two if you include them being world champions. But I with I were older during the 95 season so that I would be able to remember the magic even better. But maybe because I was so young it helped form my love of sports...Either way it was a magical season and the double was just icing on the cake: The Double, courtesy of MLB.com

Whenever I watch that play or hear the call I get the chills! My memory I have of watching the game may not even be a real memory, it doesn't quite fit logically, but it is still entrenched in my mind nonetheless...I remember sitting on the floor in front of the TV with just my dad and mom watching along with me. I was nervous as all get-out. Then when it happened I remember just being giddy with joy and jumping up and down.

The Mariners were going to the ALCS! My memory of it just makes me smile, but here is why I am not so sure it makes any sense...In my memory I am in the second house I ever lived in, but in 95 I don't think I lived there yet. Maybe I did, but I am pretty sure I moved there later. Either way I am going to take this and call it a top memory.

I don't remember any of the season, not that the M's were way out of it in late August, but I do remember the "refuse to lose" slogan that swept the area. It was so cool to me that the Mariners just weren't going to lose. And they didn't...well until the ALCS, but the magic had already been made. Even better to me was that I hate the Yankees, probably more than any other team in any sport, and the double crushed their hopes of winning the World Series.

One thing I know I remember is this picture in the newspaper the next day, it still is one of the best pictures I have ever seen...

As I continue through Thiel's book on how that team saved baseball The Double becomes even more important in my sports memory bank. If the M's don't come back to force a playoff, if the Mariners don't beat the Angels in the 1 game playoff, If Edgar doesn't hit that double, If Junior doesn't make it around to score...Chances are there isn't baseball in Seattle...but all of those things did happen, and while I think the Mariners organization has its problems...having baseball in Seattle is something I will never take for granted.

MLB Preview, Key to success: Detroit Tigers and Colorado Rockies

2011-02-25T11:28:00.000-08:00

Colorado Rockies: Troy Tulowitzki

Ever since he came into the league in 2007, the talk has been that Tullowitzki could be one of the best short stops in the game, but he has been unable to stay healthy long enough for that to happen. He has played two seasons where he missed very little time, but his other two he missed over 100 games combined.

Last year Tullowitzki missed substantial time, but still put his name out there as one of the best players in all of baseball. That was in large part to his September to remember, where he had a stretch of 15 games where he hit 14 home runs. When he got hot, no one knew when he was going to stop, he just kept launching the ball out of the park, and was doing everything he could to try to get the Rockies into the playoffs.

They lost just 2 of those 15 games, but after those 15 games, Tullowitzki did not homer again, and the Rockies won just one out of their next 14 games. They couldn't do anything when Tullowitzki wasn't carrying them. The one game they did win, Tullowitzki was 4/5 with a home run and 5 rbis. He needed some help, but there was none to be found.

If he were a healthy guy who you knew would play 160 games every season, he would be considered the best SS in baseball, but he isn't, which makes his season the key to the Rockies. Other than Tullowitzki there is no one in their lineup that will scare opposing pitchers. Maybe Carlos Gonzalez, but he has only had really one good season. If Tullowitzki is absent the Rockies offense is going to look anemic.

It isn't just injuries that take Tullowitzki out of the lineup, he also is a straight up streaky hitter. September is a good example of this, but he also has months where he just doesn't hit. Last April he had just one home run, but did hit .304 for the Rockies so he was forgiven. The best players in baseball don't have single home run months, he needs to be consistent and carry the Rockies for the entirety of the season.

Others considered: Carlos Gonzalez: He is coming off an amazing year where he did everything for the Rockies, but I have doubts another season like that is on its' way...Ubaldo Jimenez: Like Gonzalez he had a great year, especially the first half of the season, but then he tailed off; what Ubaldo will we get? The dominant one, or the mediocre one? The Rockies will need him to be a force atop their rotation to compete with the rest of the pitching heavy National League.

Detroit Tigers: Max Scherzer
Last season he got off to an awful start to the year, his ERA in April was 4.23 and then in May it was 9.45. He was pretty much left for dead, but after that he was straight up filthy. His ERA after the All-Star break was 2.47, which included a 1.29 ERA in August. The inconsistency is nothing new to Scherzer, as he had similar ups and downs in 2009, but his finish to 2010 makes him a prime candidate to break out.

He is just 26 years old, has one blue eye, one brown eye, and is a strike out machine. In 195.2 innings he had 184 strike outs, good for an 8.46 K/9. That ratio is up there with some of the best in the league, but the question is, can he put together an entire season?

He seems to be up for the task this season after he really only had 2 bad months in 2010. When the Tigers were making their push for the division they road his arm down the stretch. He had seven consecutive starts going from late July to September first, in which he gave up no more than 2 earned runs, in all of those games he pitched 6+ innings, and actually all of those games, but one he gave up two or no runs. That is the kind of dominance the Tigers should expect for stretches in 2011.

But what about the none-dominating stretches? Will those be 9+ era months? Or just a bad start here or there? Maybe he will be able to put it together and not have a rough patch. If he can find a way to make the rough patches not as rough, keep the Tigers in every ball-game he pitches in; He could step up as a dominant number 2 starter behind Justin Verlander.

This season is a big one for the Tigers, the division is wide open, they have a good lineup led by perennial MVP candidate Miguel Cabrera, and newcomer Victor Martinez. They just need to find consistency from the young arm of Max Scherzer if they expect to win the division.

Others considered: Miguel Cabrera: He is going to be up there for the AL MVP, but we know what to expect so I don't see that as a key to their team...Victor Martinez: He is the new guy on the block, but like Cabrera he has a proven track record, the question will be, how will he respond to a pretty big ballpark...Rick Porcello: He is another young arm that needs to step up, he could be a legit number 3 in the rotation, but will have to pitch better than he has recently.

Previous keys to their teams: Diamondbacks and Orioles. Red Sox and Braves Chicago White Sox and Chicago Cubs Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians

MLB Preview, Key to success: Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians

2011-02-24T13:49:00.000-08:00

Cincinnati Reds: Joey Votto

He may be the reigning NL MVP, but that doesn't assure he will have another year as good as 2010. That is one of the reasons I think his play is so important to not only the Reds, but himself as well.

Votto was a very good hitter in his first two seasons, but last year was head and shoulders ahead of his first two. He made a run at the triple crown, and pretty much put the team on his back and carried them to the playoffs. That was after not even being voted to the NL all star team.

Things will change this season for the 27 year old Canadian, he is a known commodity and will likely be pitched around throughout the season. The question is, will he be able to put any hoopla behind him and just play baseball?

I think he will be able to do so, but not to the level of last season. He will be a top 5 hitter in the NL and he will win plenty of games for the Reds, but triple crown threatening seasons don't happen very often. For Votto, another .300, 30 hr, 100 rbi year is on its' way, but not a whole lot more, but if thats the case the Reds will need all of it.

Votto is in the middle of a good lineup that has plenty of power, he is different though because he adds a good average as well. Having a player of his caliber hitting 3rd or 4th makes their lineup go from mediocre to very good, and the upside of being great.

Votto's abilities are only matched by one man, Albert Pujols...the best player in baseball. Some may argue that Votto is better right now, I'll disagree with that, but he is no doubt the difference between the Reds being a contender and them being a .500 baseball team. That though assumes he can have another MVP Caliber season, which I think he will be close to, but just short of.

Others Considered: Drew Stubbs and Jay Bruce are two young guys that the Reds have seen do great things. Last season each of them played full seasons and had great numbers, the two of them join an already young strong lineup that is becoming one of the best in baseball...Johnny Cueto and Edinson Volquez: The two young starters have shown flashes of dominance at times, but then other times have looked awful. Both have control problems, but if they are able to find the strike zone consistently they will be a dominant one two for years to come.

Cleveland Indians: Grady Sizemore
Just 2 seasons ago Sizemore was coming off a 33 homer, 38 steal season, and was primed to go after the elusive 40-40 mark. His effort never got going and it was a short-lived season for him, playing in only 106 games and hitting just 18 home runs and stealing 13 bases. He followed that up with a 33 game season in 2010 and has pretty much been left for dead.

Sizemore is only 28 years, but had micro-fracture knee surgery which may delay his return to the lineup. His doctors do expect him to be ready to start the year, but being a base-stealer he will need to be near 100 percent if he wants to be valuable.

The Indians are not likely to compete for a playoff spot this season, but if they can figure out what they have in Sizemore going forward. He could easily be a player who finds his health and gets back to his power-speed combo, but there is just as good a chance he never recovers and has no future with the Indians.

Sizemore's season is important to the Indians because he could very well be a key to them turning things around in the wide open AL Central. No team in their division is a power house, meaning if the Indians can have guys like Carlos Santana and Matt LaPorta develop quickly, add in Shin-Soo Choo and their lineup could be one of the best in the division.

For that to happen though, Sizemore needs to become the player he once was, and that has to happen this year or he is likely not going to be given another chance. The Indians are a bad team, but they do have some young talent that would benefit from seeing a guy like Sizemore be successful.

Others considered: Carlos Santana is coming off a major knee injury that halted his rookie year, if he can get back to where he was last year, he would be one of the best hitting catchers in the game...Matt LaPorta was disappointing for the Indians last year, but the highly touted first basemen needs to rebound this year and be a big bat in the middle of a bad lineup.

Previous keys to their teams: Diamondbacks and Orioles. Red Sox and Braves Chicago White Sox and Chicago Cubs

Top Sports Memory: Number 3: Marshawn Lynch sets off a BeastQuake

2011-02-24T12:15:00.000-08:00

If you have anything you want to add to my memory feel free to comment, if you want give me your top 5, I expect everyone's to be different.

Honorable Mentions: David Tyree's Catch...Kevin Dyson comes up 1 yard short...Giants commit 11 False Starts...IMA Game of the Century

Number 5: 2001 Huskies beat the Canes in explosive Husky Stadium

Number 4: Antonio Freeman did WHAT?1?

Number 3

January 8, 2011: The BeastQuake: Seattle Seahawks Vs. New Orleans Saints

First let me give some background on this one...I have had season tickets to the Seahawks for about 15 years. I hadn't missed a home game in Qwest field until the 2009 season. I had been to every single home Seahawks playoff game during my lifetime. Yet I was NOT at this game.

I can't begin to explain my devastation for missing it. I had a work day for my house I couldn't miss...worst decision EVER! If I were at the game it would be number one almost indefinitely. But instead I was at home watching the game, but it still was the most amazing run I have ever seen.

I'm sure by now you've seen this video once or twice, or if your me about 150 times. I can't get enough of it! Going into the game against the Saints I thought the Hawks would win it. It just seemed meant to be, they were huge underdogs, but playing at home and having Matt Hasslebeck seemed like a recipe for a win. Even after the awful start to the game I thought they were in great shape...Down 10-0 to the defending champs seemed tough, but I liked what I saw...and man was I right!

That play was the epitome of Marshawn Lynch...He is just a guy who isn't going to be taken down lightly, he is a BEAST of a runner. I remember the Giants game when he had a 7 yard run that should have been nothing but he just kept fighting and fighting to get 7 yards even though the Hawks were out of it. This run was very similar, had he been taken down after 10 yards it would have been a great run.

I was on my feet jumping and screaming and he just kept going. Most 67 yard runs are a break away play and take no time, this was probably the slowest run of that length ever, not because the Beast is slow, but he was following his blockers...that run was just flippin nuts!

I don't know how else to explain it! It made an earthquake for goodness sakes! It's too bad the Hawks lost in Chicago, but I know for a fact 10 years from now we will be seeing this play on Sportscenters top 10 NFL plays ever! And if not...we can always watch these fun renditions of the BeastQuake.

Adam Wainwright out...What does that mean for the St. Louis Cardinals in the NL?

2011-02-23T16:45:00.000-08:00

The Cardinals are my pre-season favorite to win the World Series, but that was before the news broke that Adam Wainwright could miss some substantial time this year, maybe the entire season. News came out of the Cardinals camp that he suffered a significant injury to his throwing elbow during a bullpen session on Monday.

Last year Wainwright was second in the NL Cy Young race behind Roy Halladay, but his season was one of the better seasons in recent memory. He pitched 230.1 innings, has a 2.42 ERA, a 1.05 whip, struck out 213 batters and finished with 20 wins on the season. He ranked 4th among National League starters with his 6.1 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) in 2010. (War is a sabermetric stat that determines how many wins a player is worth in comparison to someone who could be found to replace them)...Plain and simple he was filthy.

All of that was great, but the Cardinals still missed the playoffs by 5 games. Take him out of the rotation and it could be bad news for the Red-Birds.

Assuming the injury is as bad as suspected and he needs Tommy John Surgery, the Cardinals will need to seek out another arm for their already injury riddled rotation.

Chris Carpenter is a bona fide ace who can be the number one for the Cardinals, but he has a history of injuries that could be the final blow to the Cardinals at any point mid-season. Carpenter missed almost the entire 2007 and 2008 seasons with injuries, but has since found his way and dominated opposing batters to the tune of a 3.22 era in 235 innings in 2010, and a 2.24 era in 192.2 innings in 2009.

Jaime Garcia will have to step into the number 2 spot, which he clearly has the skills for, but he is young and coming off an injury of his own. Garcia's career was delayed due to Tommy John surgery forcing him to miss almost 2 year, but he bounced back in his rookie 2010 season. He pitched just 163.1 innings after being shut down in September, but had an amazing 2.70 ERA on the year. If he has a year similar to last season he would be a great number 2, but after him it would be a major drop off.

St. Louis' depth chart currently lists Jake Westbrook and Kyle Lohse as the final two starters in the Cardinal's rotation.

Westbrook was an innings eater last season, finishing with 202.2 innings and a decent 4.22 ERA, if he can repeat that, the Cardinals would be alright with him as their number 3, but anything worse would be lethal to their playoff hopes. The bad news on Westbrook is that he has been very inconsistent in his career, so no one knows what to expect.

Lohse is a different story, he pitched just 92 innings last year and had a 6.55 ERA. That cannot happen again if he wants to be of any help for the Cardinals. However, just 2 seasons ago he put together a very good season in his first year as a Cardinals he pitched 200.0 innings and had a 3.78 ERA. If he has a season like that, the Cardinals will certainly be able to stay afloat in the NL Central, but that season looks like an anomaly for Lohse.

So that's four starters down, but still one more spot needs to be filled, which could be done from the inside or the outside of the organization, both options seem viable.

The top two free agents right now are Jeremy Bonderman and Kevin Millwood, both who have had success at times, but haven't been able to stick on any one team. If a good deal can be made to sign one of the two of them, that would probably be the Cardinals best option.

If the Cardinals decide to stay in their organization for a fifth starter, there are a few options, none of which seem very good...Miguel Batista, P.J. Walters, Lance Lynn, Ian Snell and Brian Augenstein seem most likely...Of those, the only names I recognize from previous time in the Major's are Snell and Batista, both former Seattle Mariners, and neither one very good.

Really whoever fills in as the fifth starter won't be very good, but the question remains, how will St. Louis fare without their ace? Will they flounder and miss the playoffs again, or maybe they can respond and win the Central, blow through the playoffs and win a championship...oh and then sign Albert Pujols to a long-term deal...

I think the answer lies somewhere in the middle. I still think the Cardinals are the favorites in the central division. The Cincinnati Reds will likely regress from last season, the Chicago Cubs will be better, but not enough better, and the Milwaukee Brewers will probably be in the mix as well, but fall short. Any one of those teams could win it though and I wouldn't be surprised, it is a tough division.

I expect the Cardinals to win about 89 games in the regular season. The top of their rotation has to remain healthy and each get about 30-35 starts and 200 innings. The hitting on this team will be good enough to carry a mediocre pitching staff into the playoffs...When a team has Pujols and Matt Holliday on their team, they are going to score plenty of runs...but the playoffs will be when the pitching needs to step up.

In a playoff series the Cardinals would like their chances when they start Carpenter and Garcia, but even if they win all their starts (a HUGE if)...one of the lesser pitchers would still need to get a win. It seems very unlikely for them to be able to push through a tough National League without their ace.

That being said, I will stick with my prediction because anything could happen. Had I waited a week and made my guess now, I would have chosen someone else to win it all, but I will stick to my guns and say that the St. Louis Cardinals are going to be World Champions in 2011.