Todays Tidbits

Ollie on the Block

2006-05-04T13:13:00.000-05:00

According to Will Carroll over at Baseball Prospectus, the Pirates and Phillies may be discussing a deal that would send Oliver Perez and Ryan Doumit to the City of Brotherly Love. Just two weeks ago, there was a rumor the Phils were interested in Ronny Paulino, who seems to have won the starting job in Doumit's absense.

Not sure why anyone would give up much for Perez right now. I've got to believe there is something physically (or mentally) wrong with Perez. This is completely unfounded speculation, but is it possible Perez was on steroids? I think it was Jim Thome who pointed out a few weeks ago that one reason why hitters are doing so well so far this season is that all the pitchers had to stop juicing, as well.

Either way, I'm not ready to give up on Ollie yet, and he's still young enough that he could work his way out of this funk now that he's hopefully receiving solid coaching. Another thing to note is that Cota has been catching for him, maybe they should let him work with Paulino who has had a very positive effect on Duke, Maholm and Snell.

Steelers Sign 12 UFA's

2006-05-01T14:30:00.000-05:00

In addition to the four UFA's mentioned earlier (TE Jon Dekker, DE/LB Mike Kudla, DT Scott Paxson and CB Anthony Madison), the Steelers have signed an additional 8 prospects. Among them:

S Mike Lorello ~ West Virginia -- Versatile safety had another fine season in 2005, collecting 82 tackles (7 TFL’s), 3 sacks, 3 interceptions, 7 PD’s and a league leading 5 forced fumbles. Much more talented athlete than he is given credit for, with a great work ethic. Most adept at stopping the run and blitzing the quarterback. Problem, according to insiders, is NFL scouts doubt Lorello’s speed and see him more as a 6’ 1", 210 pound linebacker, until he can show them he has the required speed to play safety in the NFL. If he does run well, don’t be surprised if he sticks around as a special teams demon/backup safety. (draftdaddy.com)

C/G Grayling Love ~ Arizona State -- Arizona State red-shirted Love during his true freshman season in 2001. He started one of the 14 games he appeared in during the 2002 season lining up at right tackle and center that year. Love lined up at right tackle and he started 11 of the 12 games he appeared in during the 2003 season. He started six games at left guard and six games at right guard during the 2004 season earning first-team All Pac-Ten honors along the way. He lined up center and he was named second-team All Pac-10 as a senior in 2005 despite missing significant playing time due to a foot injury. Love's potential is limited by his lack of ideal size and explosiveness so it's unlikely he ever develops into a quality starter. He is also coming off a foot injury so there are concerns about his durability in the NFL. However, he is a versatile technician that won't make a lot of mistakes, so he could develop into a valuable reserve. If Love goes "undrafted" in 2006, he is worth bringing in as a priority free agent. (scout.com)

S Zach Baker ~ East Carolina -- East Carolina's Zach Baker has the ideal size for an NFL safety at 6-2, 208 pounds with a time in the 40 of 4.5. Baker was third on the Pirates in tackles and tied for the team lead in interceptions with three in 2005. He could prove to be a steal for some team in the later rounds or via post-draft free agency. (The East Carolinian)

K Mark Brubaker ~ East Stroudsburg -- see profile from ESU's site

OT Nick Hagemann ~ South Dakota State -- see feature article on South Dakota State site

S Jamar Landrom ~ Tennessee State -- from an April 16th article about Landrom's showing at the NFL's Pro-Timing Day: According to the New York Giants recordings, Landrom ran his 40-yard dash in 4.48 seconds (with the wind) and 4.49 (against). He also ran the short shuttle in 4.22, the three-cone drill in 6.75 and the long shuttle in 11.36. In addition, he had a 37-inch vertical jump and a 9-foot-10 broad jump. He also recorded 17 repetitions in the 225-pound max-reps bench press. Landrom showing at the Pro-Timing Day ranked him in the top ten of strong safeties in almost every event according to times listed on nfl.com.

TE Isaac Smolko ~ Penn State -- Smolko is not quite big enough (6-4, 246) to be a power blocking tight end and not quite polished enough to join the new breed of receiving tight ends. (scout.com)

DE Lee Vickers ~ North Alabama -- see profile from U of North Alabama web site

Malkin transfer could be costly

2006-05-01T13:30:00.000-05:00

According to Reuters, Malkin's Russian team feels the Penguins must buy out the sniper's contract before he can leave for North America. The Russian Federation has not signed a transfer agreement with the NHL. The current deal endorsed by the IIHF would see the team receive $900,000 in compensation.

"We're not asking for ($900,000) compensation from Penguins. Such a sum is a handout and we're not interested in handouts," Metallurg Magnitogorsk general director Gennady Velichkin told Russian media. "Put simply, they must buy his contract from us."

Malkin, who was picked second overall behind countryman Alexander Ovechkin in the 2004 Entry Draft, scored 21 goals and 47 points in 46 games in the Russian SuperLeague last season. And now he wants to play in Pittsburgh.

"I've already made up my mind for next season -- I'll be leaving for the NHL," Malkin told the Sport-Express newspaper. "I'm 100 percent sure of that.

When asked how much the Penguins should have to pay for the services of Malkin, Velichkin made a comparison to soccer star Andriy Shevchenko's move from Dynamo Kiev to AC Milan for $25 million.

"Dynamo received millions from Milan for Shevchenko, why can't we get that?, asked Velichkin.

"But I can't name the exact price for Malkin. We must wait for Pittsburgh's offer first."

Malkin is widely regarded as the best player not currently playing in the NHL.

Steelers Add UFA's

2006-05-01T12:28:00.000-05:00

While they have not announced their full list of undrafed free agents, info is starting to leak out about who the Steelers have added, the most interesting so far of which is Ohio State defensive end Mike Kudla, who the Steelers may try to move to outside linebacker. Scout.com considered Kudla a 6th rounder, but one of my favorite sites, draftdaddy.com, liked him even better:

LB Mike Kudla ~ Ohio State -- Listed as a defensive end, he will very likely play linebacker in the NFL, because he might be a little short for a lineman at 6’ 2". At the Combine, Kulda’s record tying 45 bench press reps, 4.70 40 time and 37" vertical showed he’s a great athlete at 275 pounds. Probably projects as a 3-4 linebacker in the NFL. His showing at the Combine will have teams considering him between the 3rd and 5th round.

Another name that could be interesting is Princeton tight end Jon Dekker, here's what draftdaddy had to say about the big Ivy Leaguer, ranking him as their top small-school tight-end and a member of their Elite 20 small-school prospects (a group that also features Steelers 4th rounder Willie Colon):

TE Jon Dekker ~ Princeton -- Talented tight end, with good size at 6' 5", 255 pounds, who came on strong as a senior, collecting 32 receptions for a 11.5 yard average and 5 touchdowns. Impressive blocker at his level, who can find the seem in the zone and make some big plays. Could be player to watch out for, if he can impress scouts at Pro Day. Tight end seems to be a position were former Ivy Leaguers have done well at in the NFL.

The Steelers also picked up a few guys who did not get invited to the Combine, but did some nice things for major programs.:

DT Scott Paxson ~ Penn State -- Very Much an unsung player on PSU’s talented defensive line. Paxson played next to impact junior Jay Alford and the pair did a nice job, helping the Lions to a 12-1 season. Paxson finished the 2005 season with 44 tackles, 11 tackles for loss and 3 sacks. Had 33 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss and 3 sacks in 2004. Tall, athletic player at 6’5" and 280 pounds, who blocked 5 kicks in 2004 alone. Sort of reminds us of former NFL player Shane Burton. Paxson did not receive an invite to Combine, which is a mild surprise to us, considering his size and how well he played for a top ranked team.

CB Anthony Madison ~ Alabama -- Three-year starter who totaled 44 tackles and broke up six passes last year. Junior numbers included 26/4/14. Undersized cornerback who works best facing the action. Fluid pedaling in reverse, smooth transitioning with opponents and positions himself to break up passes. Feisty, not afraid to mix it up and quickly closes to the action. Physically beaten down by opponents and loses out in battles. Struggles when his back is to the action. Potentially a dime back in zone coverage or backed off the line of scrimmage, Madison offers a special-teams mentality as well.

More to come...

Who's Left

2006-04-30T23:43:00.000-05:00

We all know how much the Steelers love undrafted free agents, so who are some of my favorite draft-leftovers:

A pair of tall receivers (something the Steelers could still use) are left in Miles Austin & Martin Nance [UPDATE: signed with Buffalo], though the Steelers receivers corp looks pretty stocked right now with Ward, Wilson, Holmes, Morgan, Washington, Reid and Morey. Undrafted Pitt receiver Greg Lee has signed a free agent deal with the Arizona Cardinals.

Former George Mason basketball star Jai Lewis was brought in for a workout at tight-end, could be worth taking a flyer on and maybe stash on the practice squad.

My favorite UFA is defensive Eric Henderson, whom I actually had the Steelers taking in my mock draft and would be a nice pick-up. Scout.com had him ranked as a 4th rounder, as they also ranked inside linebacker Kai Parnham and cornerback Anwar Phillips; two positions at which the Steelers did not address depth in the draft.

In my mock I also projected cornerback Khalid Naziruddin who also went undrafted.

The World According to Kiper

2006-04-30T23:19:00.000-05:00

I'll cut Mel a little slack since he probably hasn't slept in a few weeks. The self-proclaimed guru doesn't think too much of the Steelers draft, but that may be due to the fact that he isn't real clear on who they drafted:

Pittsburgh Steelers: GRADE: C+
The Steelers have replaced Antwaan Randle El with wide receivers Sinorice Moss and Willie Reid. On defense, Anthony Smith makes up for the loss of Chris Hoke in free angency. Defensive tackle Orien Harris could turn out to be one of the better Day 2 picks.

I personally think the Steelers had one of the better drafts in the league, made even more impressive by the fact that they were picking near the bottom of every round. I might change my tune, though, if the Steelers had traded up to draft Sinorice Moss and were going to make Anthony Smith a defensive lineman.

As it stands, the Steelers addressed most, if not every one of their needs, stacked their special teams and added depth all over the board. I've already given my day 1 thoughts, so let's quickly recap day 2.

While it would've been nice to add T.J. Duckett, he was not worth the 2007 3rd rounder Atlanta supposedly wanted. Unable to work the deal using one of their remaining 2006 picks, here's how used them:

In the fourth round the Steelers took a bit of a project on the 0-line in Willie Colon, who had been mentioned as one of their targets earlier in the week. With any other team, this might be a suspect pick as most scouting bureaus did not even rate him as a drafted player, but I trust the Steelers saw something in him that makes them believe he can compete, and if the Steelers know anything...it's the o-line. With their next pick they grabbed what (even Kiper acknowledges) could be the steal of day 2 in Orien Harris. Harris replaces Keisel as the young up-and-comer on the d-line and should be a big contributor on special teams.

In round five the Steelers grabbed their back-up quarterback of the future in Omar Jacobs. Jacobs has the talent and athletic ability to have been a 1st rounder, but needs to improve his technique. The Steelers also selected a tight-end to add depth to position that needed it. Davis is a big, strong kid, who probably won't see a ton of action this year, barring injury, but is much more of a legit tight end then, say, Matt Kranchick was.

The Steelers finished up the day by adding a couple guys who have practice squad written all over them, at center and running back.

With where they were picking and what their needs were, I could not be happier with this draft...and Mel, if Daniel Smith is replacing Chris Hoke, than Orien Harris should be able to fill in nicely for Chris Hope.

Holmes in One

2006-04-29T17:00:00.000-05:00

Did the Steelers need to trade up in round one to grab wide receiver/kick returner Santonio Holmes from the Ohio State University? Maybe not. Did they need to give up a 3rd & 4th rounder to do it when the trade chart showed a 3rd & 5th should have been more than enough? Maybe not. Did the Steelers fill two big needs with one big pick? Absolutely. Holmes should step right into the slot and will become the punt returner and possibly return kick-offs, as well. At least that's what we thought for a couple hours...more on that in a minute.

The Steelers made up for their traded picks by exchanging their 2nd rounder for two 3rd round picks. With their first pick in the 3rd round, the Steelers selected Syracuse safety Anthony Smith. A somewhat surprising pick considering two safeties the Steelers were thought to be interested in, Ko Simpson and Darnell Bing, were still on the board. While Smith may take some time to adjust to playing safety in the NFL (remember how lost Polamalu was as a rookie?), he should contribute immediately on special teams coverage and kick blocking formations...he blocked six kicks in college.

With their final pick of the day, the Steelers showed how seriously they are taking the loss of Randle El to the return game by selecting punt return specialist Willie Reid from Florida State. Reid was a productive wide receiver in college, and may someday evolve into a #3 or #4 receiver in the pros, but it is very clear why he is being brought to Pittsburgh. Scout.com ranks Reid as the 2nd best return specialist in the draft, behind only Devin Hester, a 2nd round selection of the Bears.

Barring additional trades, the Steelers will have 6 more picks tomorrow, including two in the 4th, two in the 5th and one in each of the 6th and 7th rounds. There is plenty of depth left to add, but the Steelers addressed their three main areas of concern today.

2006 Tidbits Mock Draft

2006-04-28T09:54:00.000-05:00

A little more than 24 hours to go before the 2006 NFL Draft begins, and about 30 hours before the Steelers make their first selection, but now it's time for me to make mine. For starters, no way the Steelers are going to sign 10 draft picks, so along the way, I'm going to swing a couple trades. Here we go:

Round 1: Pick 32 (Overall: 32) - LenDale White, RB, USC
Here's the first trade for the Steelers. I think LenDale White is the Steelers man and I think they may have to move up a few spots to get him. There is a chance he could slip by Indianapolis, but it's not a risk I take. The Steelers 3rd & 6th round picks should be the most they'd have to give to get him, and I think for their needs...it's worth it. White spends most of the season on the bench, getting limited action...until, of course, Duce gets hurt in the preseason opener and then White shares time with Fast Willie. If Cowher & Co. can keep White's head in the game and his weight under control, White becomes a Heath Miller-like steal at towards the end of round 1. They could also grab Ohio State center Nick Mangold, the top center in the draft, though they may have to move ahead of the Jets and Jaguars to assure they get him.

The Steelers could also trade down with this pick and improve their position in subsequent rounds.

Round 2: Pick 32 (64) - Danieal Manning, S, Abilene Christian
I think the Steelers would love to see USC's Darnell Bing or South Carolina's Ko Simpson fall into their lap here, but I think their off the board by now. Mannings got good potential at safety and could be playing some nickel & dime by midseason. Where Manning can contribute right away is on special teams, where he takes over kick return duties and is a force on the coverage team.

Round 4: Pick 32 (129) - Mike Hass, WR, Oregon State
Like day one, I'm beginning day two with another trade. This time I'm dealing my 4th & 5th to move up in the 4th and grab Hass. If the Steelers don't trade their 3rd pick, they'll have already taken a wideout by now, but I think Hass gives you good value here, and fills a need. Hass is possibly the best deep threat in the draft, and that's the main offensive component the Steelers have been lacking. Hass should see time on the outside in 3 receiver sets, allowing the Steelers to keep Cedrick Wilson in slot, where he belongs.

Round 4: Pick 34 (131) - Eric Henderson, DE, Georgia Tech
With the Steelers first compensatory pick it's time to address the depth on the d-line. The Steelers seem to really like last year's 7th round pick Shaun Nua, and by adding Henderson, they'll have solid depth along the line, and maybe a potential starter (Aaron Smith will become a free agent at season's end). Some consider this pass-rusher a boom-or-bust type prospect. He has had some injury problems in the past, but if he can get passed them, he could be a steal on day two. I wouldn't put it passed the Steelers to try to turn him into an outside linebacker, either.

Round 4: Pick 36 (133) - Bruce Gradkowski, QB, Toledo
Move over Rod Rutherford, there's a new local kid in town. Gradkowski is a tough kid and could grow into a decent back-up. Not much to say here. I think the Steelers definitely take a quarterback on day 2, and unless somehow Omar Jacobs slips through a whole bunch of cracks, I think Gradkowski's their guy.

Round 5: Pick 35 (167) - E.J. Whitley, OT, Texas Tech
Anytime I read "Steelers re-sign Barrett Brooks", I know it's time to draft some depth on the line. The Steelers seem to like last year's 6th rounder, Chris Kemoeatu, and the juries still out on Trai Essex, so I think Whitley is a good value this late. He played every position along the o-line in college, and while he doesn't seem to have the "mean streak" the Steelers like, his versatility should make up for it. I see him as a Chukky Okobi-type, who could provide them good depth at a number of positions.

Round 7: Pick 32 (240) - Khalid Naziruddin, CB, Texas Tech
For my last pick of the draft, I'm going back to defense and giving myself a little protection in the secondary in case I can't re-sign Ike Taylor after this season, and let's face it, the Steelers need to take at least one guy with a really long last name. Like Taylor, Naziruddin is a bit of a developmental project. He's got the "mean streak" and plays bigger than his undersized frame. Played some safety in college, in addition to corner. If he can learn to take better angles and improve his tackling, he could be a nice pick-up this late...and if he doesn't, who cares, he's Pittsburgh's Mr. Irrelevant.

So, that's my mock draft. If the Steelers don't feel the need to trade away 3 picks, they could fill some an additional need for depth at tight end (Jai Lewis?), and you can never draft too many offensive or defensive linemen. Lot of question marks surround this year's draft and it should definitely be a fun one to watch...even for Steeler fans.

Fact vs. Fiction

2006-04-27T10:18:00.000-05:00

Okay, I'm stealing this from ESPN, but who cares, here we go...

FACT: The Steelers will trade up on day 1 of the draft.

This one comes down to simple math, the Steelers have 10 draft picks and neither the roster spots or room under the rookie cap to sign 10 draft picks. I look for them to actually trade up twice this weekend, once in the first round (their 1st, 3rd and a 5th or 6th depending how high they move up) and again on day 2, moving up in the 4th round for their own 4th and the 5th or 6th they trade earlier.

FICTION: The Steelers are happy with their receiving corp.

They can say it all they want. Cedrick Wilson can step into the #2 role and they love Nate Washington and Quincy Morgan showed some things. The bottom line is Cedrick Wilson can absolutely replace Randle El at wideout, but only because Randle El was a non-factor on offense for most of the year. Wilson did show improvement as the year went on, but does anybody believe he's a #2 receiver on a Super Bowl contender? He belongs in the slot. Washington and Morgan, and maybe even Walter Young, can provide a little depth, but none of those guys are or ever will be stars. The Steelers must spend a day one pick on a receiver and hope he can contribute. Luckily, next year's crop of receivers should be a lot stronger.

FACT: The Pirates are the worst clutch team in baseball.

Watching the Pirates is like watching Wily Mo Pena...if he comes up in a completely unimportant situation, with the bases empty, get out the binoculars, cause he's going to launch a moon-shot. If, god-forbid, there's a runner in scoring position...you can chalk up the backwards-K before he even steps to the plate. And, though it pains me to say it, the worst culprit might be Jason Bay.

FICTION: The Pirates are the worst team in baseball.

As Michel Therien proved, there is a learning curve when you take over for a team that has not been properly coached. Jim Tracy and staff have the unenviable task of undoing the damage of past regimes. Working for them is the fact that the players on this team are willing to do what they must to improve, including running spring training-like drills the day of games and showing up early for one-on-ones with coaches. This team will improve, and with the exception of Oliver Perez, the young pitchers seem to be making some progress. Perez, meanwhile, continues to get hit harder than Rich Tylski's kids (too soon?).

FACT: The Penguins are going to be fun to watch next year.

While they may not be a playoff contender yet, the Penguins by the start of next season should have a core of young talent like this town hasn't seen since the 70's. Assuming they can get Evgeni Malkin across the border, and have this year's #2 selection on the team, even if they don't win (yet)...they should be entertaining every night.

FICTION: The Pens are leaving town.

It's just not going to happen.

Rich Tylski Beats His Kid

2006-04-21T15:46:00.000-05:00

Just when it looked like Derek Bell had Douche Bag of the Week locked up...

Former NFL offensive guard Rich Tylski and his wife were accused of hitting their adopted daughter with a belt, slamming her head on a table and other abuse that left the girl with broken bones in her hands and leg.

The 35-year-old Tylski and wife Jane, 36, were free on $20,000 bond each on the child abuse and neglect charges. They were released Wednesday after turning themselves in. A message left on their home answering machine wasn't immediately returned, and it was unclear whether they had lawyers.

Tylski spent nine seasons in the NFL, playing in 95 games with the Jaguars, Steelers and Panthers before retiring after the 2004 season.

The child, whose age and name weren't released, was taken to a Jacksonville hospital March 10 for a fractured right thigh bone. Her parents said she had fallen down the stairs about eight hours earlier.

Doctors found extensive bruising in various stages of healing. A skeletal survey found six or seven healing fractures in the child's hand, the police report stated.

The girl later told investigators that she lied about falling down the stairs and she demonstrated on a doll how her mother had pushed her leg over her head until they heard a pop, the report said. The report also stated that Rich Tylski said he had hit the child with a belt.

The Department of Children & Families told police the girl missed 14 days of school from October to March.

DCF spokesman John Harrell said he could not discuss the Tylski case because of state confidentiality laws. "Whenever we receive information that a child may be abused, we respond within a matter of hours. We investigate all cases of child abuse thoroughly wherever they may lead. Our No. 1 priority is child safety," he said.

During an interview on March 24, the child told investigators that her mother slammed her head on the table when she wouldn't eat. She said both parents hit her. She said a scar on her forehead was from her mother slamming her head into the table, but denied her mother hurt her leg, the police report said.

In a second interview April 3, the girl described how her mother would bend her fingers backward.

All Pro Dad, which promotes active fatherhood, listed Tylski as an NFL player involved with the organization on its Web site. A call to its Tampa office was not immediately returned.

A call to the DCF about the case was not immediately returned.

Derek Bell Smokes Crack

2006-04-20T14:38:00.000-05:00

Former outfielder Derek Bell was charged with felony cocaine possession, police said Thursday.
Bell, 37, was pulled over for a traffic violation, Tampa police said.

"He was found with a crack pipe in the back seat of his car which was still warm," police spokesman Larry McKinnon said.

Bell is also charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, McKinnon said. Bell later told police the items were his.

He was being held in jail on $2,500 bail. It was unclear if he had an attorney.

Barry Bonds Rookie Card

2006-04-18T23:21:00.000-05:00

It's the Journey...Not the Destination

2006-04-03T10:59:00.000-05:00

For an organization that promotes effort over results, Dave Littlefield is the perfect man for the job, and was rewarded today with a one-year contract extension, which now runs through the 2008 season. Under Littlefield's watch, the Pirates definitely seem to be in better shape as an organization than before he got to town, but let's face it, you don't need thick socks to fill Cam Bonifay's shoes. Has Littlefield done a good job at rebuilding the franchise? It's too soon to tell. Are some of the building blocks in place and/or on the way? Absolutely. I'm not saying I agree with or disagree with extending his contract, I just think it's interesting that a team that must be so careful with every decision it makes, didn't take a wait-and-see approach, when his contract ran through next year already.

It's too bad for Craig Patrick that the Penguins didn't take that approach after the offseason he had. Remember how excited we all were about the Pens free agent pick-ups? And they were, for the most part, bonafide stars...and looked what happened.

Pirates Finalize Roster (pretty much)

2006-03-31T11:43:00.000-05:00

With a couple moves today, the Pirates have set their roster for opening day. Victor Santos has been selected as the fifth starter, though he will actually become the #2 starter in order to let the young pitchers face weaker opposition. That I like, the selection of Santos I don't like. Brandon Duckworth, who was reassigned to minor league camp, had a better spring and I get the feeling like Santos was only kept, because sending him back to KC means the Bucs would lose out on $25K. Not that Duckworth is so great, just in a situation where the best player should have been selected with all things being equal...all things were not equal. Santos is now just holding down a spot for Sean Burnett, who should be in the majors by May/June.

Starting Rotation: Oliver Perez, Victor Santos, Zach Duke, Ian Snell, Paul Maholm

Jody Gerut, despite a strong spring was sent to AAA today. The team cited his lack of speed for the demotion and instead chose to keep Nate McLouth. Gerut hopes to regain the speed he had back in 2003 and all but admitted that his knee is not 100% yet. Keeping McLouth could be more significant than just selecting a 5th outfielder, McLouth will challenge Chris Duffy (who did not have a great spring, health-wise or performance-wise) for playing time in centerfield.

The rest of the offense will be as follows:
C: Ryan Doumit, Humberto Cota
IF: Sean Casey, Jose Castillo, Jack Wilson, Joe Randa, Freddy Sanchez, Jose Hernandez
OF: Jason Bay, Chris Duffy, Jeromy Burnitz, Craig Wilson, Nate McLouth

In the bullpen, Matt Capps has been awarded a trip up north after a solid spring, capped off (no pun intended) with a big strikeout of Manny Ramirez the other day. The only thing left to be determined in the bullpen is whether Damaso Marte is healthy enough to break camp with the team. Terry Adams and CJ Nitkowski are still with the team, and one of them would take Marte's spot if he's not ready to go.

Here's your bullpen:
John Grabow, Damaso Marte (?), Ryan Vogelsong, Salomon Torres, Matt Capps, Roberto Hernandez and Mike Gonzalez.

Will this be a team that competes for a playoff spot? Probably not. Could this be a team that finishes over .500? Absolutely. Now, keep in mind I'm saying they absolutely could...not they absolutely will. But it's good enough to get me excited for the upcoming season. Let's go Bucs!

Pirates Pare Roster by 5

2006-03-29T09:53:00.000-05:00

The Pirates made half of their remaining cuts this morning, reassigning utility-man of the future Jose Bautista to minors, along with catching prospect Ronny Paulino, infielder Mike Edwards and pitchers Britt Reames and Scott Strickland.

The demotions of Bautista and Edwards (and earlier JJ Furmaniak) means that Jose Hernandez has inexplicably locked up a roster spot as the back-up utility man.

The Pirates have also officially announced what has been reported all week, that the team will start the season with Kip Wells, John VanBenschoten and Bryan Bullington on the 60-day DL, meaning they will have room for 3 players who are not on the 40-man roster. This will include Hernandez, Giovanni Carrara (most likely) or Terry Adams, and possibly Brandon Duckworth...though it sounds like the Pirates are going to go with Santos and start off with Duckworth in Indy.

That's about it for now, expect the Bits to start picking up soon, with the Pirates just about ready to start play, the upcoming NFL draft, and thankfully only 11 more Pens games before we can start focusing on the offseason.

One other note, anybody catch Scrubs last night and see the Terrible Towel hanging up in Turk & Carla's apartment?

Steelers Re-Sign Two, Pick-up 3 Picks

2006-03-27T16:42:00.000-05:00

Today, the Steelers signed their final unrestricted free agent, wide receiver Quincy Morgan, as well as exclusive rights free agent and 2005 7th round pick Shawn Nua. No terms were announced yet. Morgan should help in the return game and could even find himself in a starting role at some point if the Steelers don't use a high pick in the draft to fill the void left by Randle El. Cedrick Wilson will definitely see increased action, but may be best suited for the slot, with Morgan making a nice, tall counterpart for Hines Ward.

Despite some speculation last week, it remains highly unlikely that the Steelers will trade for Buffalo receiver Eric Moulds. The Bills are thought to be asking for a 4th round pick, which is very reasonable compensation, but whomever trades for him, would have to take on his salary, and Steelers would be hard pressed to find room for the approx. $7M he'll count against the cap this year.

The NFL today awarded 32 compensatory draft picks, including 3 to the Steelers. Pittsburgh was awarded two 4th-round picks (#131 & #133 overall) and a 5th-rounder (#167) as compensation for losing free agents Plaxico Burress, Kendrell Bell and Keydrick Vincent. This gives the Steelers 10 picks in the upcoming draft, but don't expect them to keep all ten. The extra picks will give the Steelers some ammo to trade up in some rounds, as they will have the 32nd selection in each round. With a number of major players due to become free agents next offseason, drafting solid depth next month will be crucial to the franchise's continued success.

In case you missed it, there is a nice story up on the Steelers web site about Bam Morris, who seems to have turned his life around. Worth the quick read.

Pens in Rare Form

2006-03-26T11:02:00.000-05:00

If anybody missed (or I should say, if anybody actually watched) the Pens game Friday night against the Isles, you missed a great game. I have not watched a Pens game since before the Olympic break, but for whatever reason decided to tune in and was rewarded with seeing Ryan Malone open the scoring with one of the prettiest goals I've ever seen. The game was great fun all the way till the end, when Sid the Kid finished it in OT. Good work in his debut by Noah Welch, as well.

Click here for some highlights

Pirates Trim Roster

2006-03-21T12:31:00.000-05:00

The Pirates made some tough decisions today as they made 11 cuts. Several players cut today can expect to make it to Pittsburgh at some point this season, including starting candidates Sean Burnett and Tom Gorzelanny, both of whom will start the season in AAA. Other members of the 40-man sent to AAA today include Yurnell DeCaster, Brad Eldred and Rajai Davis.

Six non-roster invitees were reassigned to the minor league camp, including Nerio Rodriguez, Ron Chiavacci, Matt Whiteside, Carlos Maldonado, Jason Alfara and Gookie Dawkins. Dawkins had an excellent spring and could be a candidate to replace Jose Hernandez, when he is inevitably released later in the season.

The demotions of Burnett and Gorzelanny mean that in all likelihood Ian Snell and Brandon Duckworth have locked up the two openings in the starting rotation (provided there is no Craig Wilson trade), while Victor Santos seems to be headed to a swingman role in the bullpen. Ryan Vogelsong, who was once being considered for a spot in the rotation, could be in danger of losing his spot in the bullpen. The Pirates roster is now down to 42 men, meaning 17 more cuts will be coming over the next week or so.

Done Deal

2006-03-14T20:28:00.000-05:00

The Steelers and Brett Keisel have come to terms on a new 4-year deal. Financial terms have not been disclosed. The numbers have come out, however, on Ryan Clark's deal. The safety will get $7M over 4-years, including a $1.7M signing bonus.

Kimo's new deal with the Jets, by the way, will pay him $9.2M over 3-years, including a $3.2M signing bonus. I'm glad to see Kimo get a good payday in what is almost certainly his final NFL contract and I wish him all the best. Kimo served the Steelers well for several years, and let's face it, if he hadn't rolled up on Palmer's knee, we might still be looking for one for the thumb.

Safety in Numbers?

2006-03-14T18:30:00.000-05:00

The Steelers signed their first free agent from outside the organization today and entertained another, almost assuring that at least 2 Steelers free agents will not return.

A sure sign that Chris Hope has played his last game in black & gold, the Steelers signed former Redskins safety Ryan Clark. Clark, 26, is considered a marginal starter and is a downgrade from Hope. I would expect Tyrone Carter to get lots of playing time this season and I'm hoping the Steelers draft a decent safety in April. Though the dollar amount is not yet public, Clark's contract is said to be a 4-year deal.

In a move that could potentially upgrade a position (something the Steelers rarely do through free agency anymore), the Steelers entertained former Cleveland tight end Aaron Shea today and are thought to be close to reaching agreement on a contract. If Shea is signed to be the #2 tight end, Jerame Tuman's days in Pittsburgh are over. Both Hope and Tuman are said to have turned down offers from the Steelers.

Back to the defense, the Steelers could lock-up Brett Keisel to a new deal as early as tonight. The Steelers have a little added incentive to wrap things up with Keisel quickly as Kimo von Oelhoffen signed a 3-year deal today with the J-E-T-S.

And, in case anybody missed it, the Steelers have re-signed back-up linebacker Clint Kriewaldt and back-up quarterback Charlie Batch. The Steelers are expected to take a developmental quarterback on day 2 of the draft, and also have former Pitt QB Rod Rutherford on the roster.

Now, how about some baseless speculation. Keyshawn Johnson was released by the Cowboys today (to make room for TO?). Keyshawn could be the perfect addition to the Steelers offense. A big possession receiver to go along with the little possession receiver (Hines Ward) and the little, fast, deep threat in the slot (Cedrick Wilson). Throw in Quincy Morgan, Nate Washington and maybe a draft pick and I like that corps a lot, not to mention possibly two good pass receiving tight ends in Heath Miller and (maybe) Aaron Shea. Keyshawn's old enough that maybe he'd be willing to play for less money for a chance at a ring. Just a thought.

The El With 'Em

2006-03-12T16:25:00.000-05:00

After turning down an offer from his hometown Bears (guess god didn't want him to play there), it didn't take Antwaan Randle El long to find a new home. The star punt-returner and mediocre receiver landed a 6-year deal worth $31M with the Washington Redskins. The Skins added Brandon Lloyd yesterday and already have Santana Moss and David Patten.

While he should not be all that difficult to replace on offense, his return skills will be missed. Don't be surprised to see the Steelers draft a kid with good return skills in April. Other options could include Ike Taylor or maybe Cedrick Wilson. Ricardo Colclough has returned kickoffs, but I don't think he's got the speed or shiftiness needed to return punts.

While the Steelers have not locked up any of their own free agents yet, their initial focus seems to be on locking up Brett Keisel. They are also supposedly close to a contract extension with Chukky Okobi which would probably lessen his cap hit for this year and open up a little extra money.

Where Are They Now?

2006-03-11T10:11:00.000-05:00

Ever wonder what happened to former Steeler d-lineman Jeremy Staat? Me neither, but if you've got nothing better to do on this lovely Saturday morning, click here.

Pens Trade Recchi & Cross, Claim Winger

2006-03-09T14:46:00.000-05:00

The Pens have made two deadline deals (so far?), first sending 38-year old forward Mark Recchi to the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for winger Niklas Nordgren, forward Krystofer Kolanos and a 2nd round pick in next year's draft.

Recchi waived his no-trade clause to be sent to Carolina. There is a clause in Recchi's contract that will let him opt-out and become a free agent after the season. There is speculation that Recchi will return to Pittsburgh next season.

Nordgren, 26, is 5'11", 185 lbs. and has scored 6 points (4G, 2A) in 43 games for the Hurricanes this season. Prior to this season, Nordgren spent the past few years as on of the top players in the Swedish Elite League. Seems to have a fairly well-rounded skill set, is considered to be a strong skater and looks like he's got some potential.

Kolanos, 24, is 6'3", 206 lbs., has split time this season in Edmonton and 2 AHL teams. He had 3 points (2G, 1A) for the Oilers earlier in the season before being dealt to Carolina. Edmonton had acquired Kolanos on waivers earlier in the season from Phoenix, who selected him in the 1st round (19th overall) of the 2000 draft. Kolanos has scored 10 goals and 12 assists in 22 AHL games this year. Kolanos has 35 points in 115 career NHL games. He is considered to have a lot of potential, but just hasn't found a home yet. Could be a nice pick-up for the Pens.

The Pens have also sent defenseman Cory Cross to Detroit in exchange for a 4th round pick in next year's draft. Cross came to the Pens, along with Jani Rita, from Edmonton earlier this season in a trade for Dick Tarnstrom.

Earlier today, the Penguins claimed winger Andy Hilbert from Chicago. Hilbert, originally drafted in the 2nd round by the Bruins, stands 5'11", 198 lbs. and had 5 goals and 4 assists for the Blackhawks in 28 games this season. His most recent goal came January 13th against the Penguins.

The Pens had trouble finding somebody willing to give up a 2nd round pick for Ryan Malone. Toronto was supposedly offering Nic Antropov. We'll see if any more deals are announced, but it looks like Malone, Leclair and Jackman will remain with the Penguins.

Elsewhere, former Penguin Kris Beech has been dealt from Nashville to Washington, along with a 1st round pick, in exchange for defenseman Brendan Witt. Also, the Capitals have claimed Rico Fata on waivers from Atlanta. The Thrashers claimed Fata on waivers earlier in the season from the Pens.

Fire Up the Ol' Rumor Mill

2006-03-09T10:26:00.000-05:00

With the NHL's trading deadline set for today at 3 pm, there could be several Penguins on the move, including:

Ryan Malone: the latest buzz is that there is a strong chance that the Pittsburgh native could be heading north to either Ottawa or Toronto. San Jose, New Jersey and Philly are also thought to have some interest in Malone. The asking price is believed to be a high draft pick.

Mark Recchi: teams interested include Carolina, Ottawa, San Jose, Colorado, Philly and Tampa.

John Leclair: teams interested include Boston, Detroit, Montreal and Dallas.

Defensemen: the Rangers are looking for some affordable d-men, among those mentioned as possible targets are Penguins Ric Jackman and Cory Cross.

Down But Not Out

2006-03-07T21:52:00.000-05:00

The Bits has been out of commission lately due to the fact that I am in the process of moving and work is picking up. But never fear, the Bits will be back soon...not sure exactly when yet, but definitely in time for opening day. In the meantime, the Steelers are juggling aging veterans to find cap room, the Penguins returned from the Olympic break without missing a beat and the Pirates are tearing up the Grapefruit League.