The 2011 NFL Regular Season is right around the corner. With just about almost every big named free agent signed, it's time to look at each division and see what teams will be vying for the division crown. In this piece i'll discuss why the AFC West is a division you should look at as the Chargers,Chiefs,Broncos and Raiders will be teams to watch out for. I will state the cases why each team could win the division.
San Diego Chargers - They have a top 10 QB in constant 4,000 yard passer Phillip Rivers. They have 6'5 WR Vincent Jackson back and to play a full season. They also re-signed 6'5 WR Malcon Floyd. Rivers is equipped with two very tall WR's which could post match up problems with opposing corner backs. He also has arguably the best tight end in the game in Antonio Gates. Also, the run game should be a solid force to with one year veteran Ryan Matthews being the #1 back now that Darren Sproles has bolted for New Orleans. If the defense replicates last years defense as being the #1 defense in football, they could make a serious case to be a top three team in the AFC and challenge for a Super Bowl berth.
Kansas City Chiefs - The Chiefs won the AFC West last year in shocking fashion, surprising a lot of people. They have a solid QB in Matt Cassell, a top five RB in Jamaal Charlers and a under rated solid WR in Dwayne Bowe. They've added veteran WR Steve Breaston through free agency , defensive tackle Kelly Gregg from Baltimore and full back Le'Ron McClain from Baltimore. They've had a solid under the radar off season. I don't see why they can't possibly repeat as AFC West champs if the team plays at the same level as last year and shock the nation again. They had the 14th overall defense last season but with the addition of Gregg on the defensive line should be a big help and with Eric Berry having his first full season under his belt, the defense should be even better then 14th this year. If they can put it all together like last year, they should once again be a force in the AFC West.
Denver Broncos - They have a QB controversy with veteran Kyle Orton the projected starter but the fans want one year veteran Tim Tebow, who you never know could become the next Michael Vick as he can pass and run the ball. The WR's are solid with Brandon Lloyd,Eddie Royal and Demaryious Thomas. The run game should be solid with Knowshon Moreno and LenDale White. I really can't see the offense being much of a problem but it's the defense you have to pay attention to as they had the 31st rush defense and 25th pass defense, both together gave them the worst overall defense last season. They didn't make no big changes to the defense except for adding line backer Von Miller out of Texas A&M with the #2 overall pick in the 2011 draft. With Denver's offensive options, i can see them putting up points but the defense has to be better after how bad they were last year.
Oakland Raiders - They had the 11th overall defense last year but they lost their star corner back in Nnamdi Asomugha when he went to Philadelphia this off season. Their rush defense was 25th even with the pass defense being second. Now with Asomugha out of Oakland, expect the defense to get a lot worse after not picking up no one of significance this off season. The offense is a mess as well with no consistent guy but Jason Campbell looks to be their man. The running game was second with Darren McFadden being a beast and even when he was injured for parts of the season, backup Michael Bush carried the load and did as well as McFadden. If the run game has the same success, they will be a strong force and be able to disrupt even the best rush defenses. They got a nice young WR core with Darius Heyward-Bey, Louis Murphy, and Jacoby Ford. They finished the 2010 season with an 8-8 record but they swept their other AFC West rivals. 6-0 in the division but only 2-8 outside of their division. They are always a good upset specialist but don't fall in love with them because they are a inconsistent football team but could surprise and make a case for a AFC West title if they can beat teams outside of their division.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Rockies Trade Ace Ubaldo Jimenez To The Cleveland Indians
In what became the biggest trade at the trading deadline, the Colorado Rockies traded their ace pitcher 27 year old Ubaldo Jimenez to the Cleveland Indians for four prospects, two being highly ranked pitching prospects. The Rockies fell out of contention after a hot start to the season. The Indians, who i don't think were given a chance to be a playoff team this year started the season off hot and have maintained pace in the AL Central although they are two games out of first place behind the Detroit Tigers currently. They have surprised many people with there great play through the first four months of the season. Now that they are out of first place, which they were in for a majority of the first three and a half months of the season, they needed a front line starter to solidify their rotation. Now they got one in Ubaldo Jimenez. They did give up a hefty package of prospects to obtain Jimenez, including pitchers Alex White and Drew Pomeranz. In the deal, Colorado also got back pitcher Joe Gardner and utility man Matt McBride. White was rated the 47th best prospect entering 2011 according to Baseball America and Pomeranz the 61st best prospect. McBride was having a solid season at AA Akron batting .297 with 14 HRs , 53 RBIs and a .359 OBP , .535 SLUG equating into a .894 OPS, which got him a promotion to AAA Columbus where he has started off very slow in 12 games so far. Gardner isn't having such a good season so far in AA Akron where he is sporting a 7-8 record and a 4.99 ERA. He has 60 strikeouts and 47 walks in 97.1 innings. He also has a 1.59 WHIP which is not good at all. The Indians made this deal so they have Jimenez for two more years after this year and so they can have a legit ace to help them get to the playoffs and win the AL Central division. A 1-2 punch of Ubaldo Jimenez and Justin Masterson isn't bad for a young upstart team chasing a playoff spot. Many people say why would the Rockies trade Jimenez who is still under control through next year with a $5.75 million club option for 2013 and $8 million club option for 2014. Well Jimenez had a Cy Young caliber 2010 season going 19-8 with a 2.88 ERA striking out 214 batters to go along with a 1.15 WHIP. He finished third in Cy Young voting. This season he is 6-9 with 4.46 ERA with 118 K's in 123 innings and a 1.37 WHIP. He has lost 3 MPH off his fastball and he has been more wild. There are concerns there is something wrong with his arm but nothing has come up this season. People think he was just a one year wonder and is falling apart at a young age and don't know how a 27 year old pitcher can lose 3 MPH off his fastball. Rockies GM Dan O'Dowd was smart to pull the trigger on the deal with the Indians as he gets back four prospects and two big ones that can replenish there system and be future top of the rotation starters for them. Alex White and Drew Pomeranz project to be top of the rotation starters and possible sure fire #1's. Pomeranz has shown to be a strikeout machine in the minors posting 11.1 K's per 9 innings in high A ball and 10.9 K's in AA ball. Alex White is a ground ball pitcher with an alright K's rate. For the Rockies to get these two pitching prospects means a lot because now they get rid of possible damaged goods in Ubaldo Jimenez and get two top flight prospects back and two other solid minor pieces for the future. With Troy Tulowitzki and Carlos Gonzalez anchoring the offense in the major league level and no big named pitchers on the Rockies staff, they will have two possible future aces join the staff in 2012 along with injured Jorge De La Rosa. Barring any injuries, both White and Pomeranz should be at the major league level together by opening day 2013. White is already up in the majors and Pomeranz recently was promoted to AA. Gardner is projected to possibly be a solid bullpen guy come in the future and by the way McBride is hitting in the minors, he could maybe make a splash in the majors not too long from now. The Indians simply made this deal to show the fans they are committed to winning this year and in the coming years. It's a risky move by Cleveland to trade for a guy who has lost 3 mph off his fastball and give up four prospects with two being top 75 pitching prospects. It's a solid trade by Colorado as they get really solid pieces for the future for a guy who may be breaking down at a young age. If everything pans out well for the Rockies, they will have made a great trade when they look back on this in a few years. Great trade for Colorado it looks to me and we will have to wait and see how Ubaldo adjusts to a new league,division and batters to see if Cleveland also made a good deal. It's a deal both teams, to me, had to make.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Where Will Carlos Beltran Be Traded To?
Where will Carlos Beltran be traded to? That is the question many people have been asking since the All Star break. Carlos is most likely the most coveted trade chip on the market and many teams are looking to add him for a playoff push and possible World Series championship. Carlos is weary of going to the AL because he doesn't want to be made a DH, he has made it clear he wants to play right field. Several teams, like the Phillies,Braves,Giants,Redsox,Rangers to name a few are aggressively trying to pry Beltran away from the Mets. Sandy Alderson, GM of the Mets has made it known that he wants one top level prospect in return for Beltran and the Giants don't want to give up high A pitcher Zach Wheeler, the Phillies don't want to give up outfielder Dominick Brown who is currently on the big league roster and the Braves are awry to give up one of there many prized pitching prospects. Carlos wants to stay in the NL so he can play the field and because he knows the pitchers and parks well and doesn't have to make too many adjustments. Carlos Beltran is batting .291 on the season with 15 HR's and 64 RBI's in 96 games. He also shows a .391 OBP and .519 SLG% which equates into a .910 OPS. He's having a great season considering everyone thought he would need 1-2 games off a week before the season started to give his bad knees a rest but his knees are holding up and allowing him to be a everyday player. He has a clause in his contract that blocks a team from offering him arbitration in the off season, so a team that trades for him can't get draft pick compensation. He also has a full no trade clause, so he can decide what teams he'll block a trade to and what teams he'll accept a trade to. Lets now take a look at the possible landing spots for Carlos Beltran as the trade deadline draws closer and a possible trade hovers over Carlos Beltran.
Philadelphia Phillies: They could use an offensive piece and Carlos Beltran would be a huge addition to the lineup and would give them a starting outfield of Beltran,Victorino,Ibanez and they can send down Dom Brown to AAA or keep his bat on the bench. Philadelphia holds the best record in the MLB and Beltran does have postseason experience, so he could be a very key addition to the Phillies in there quest for another World Series title.
Atlanta Braves: They could really use an outfield bat and since Jason Heyward is in RF, maybe Beltran gets shifted back to CF or Heyward moves for Beltran. Their farm system is deep and they got great pitching prospects but aren't budging to give one up the best ones. They seem willing to give up Mike Minor, who the Mets recently scouted. Beltran would be a perfect addition to the Braves if they can get him and would be good leader heading into the playoffs.
San Francisco Giants: They desperately need offense since there young star catcher Buster Posey went down with a broken leg. Pablo Sandoval and Nate Schierholtz have been carrying the load on the offense. What's really got them soaring in first place is there pitching, both there rotation and bullpen. If they can add Beltran's bat to the offense, they might have a really good chance to repeat as World Series champions.
Milwaukee Brewers: The Brewers are going all in this year trying to win a World Series in what could be the final season in a Brewers uniform for young slugging first basemen Prince Fielder. They made trades for pitchers Zack Greinke and Shaun Marcum in the winter and added closer Frankie Rodriguez from the Mets during the all star break. There farm system is very thin so no one knows what they could offer that could woo Sandy Alderson in sending Beltran to Milwaukee. If Beltran goes to Milwaukee, he gets to play in RF and Corey Hart will be moved to CF. It'd also give them one of the top offenses in the game.
Pittsburgh Pirates: The team that is shocking the nation with there surprisingly great play so far are in a three way tie for first place in the NL Central with the Brewers and Cardinals. There young pitching is really carrying them as there offense could definitely use some veteran leadership and a middle of the order bat. Beltran would fit perfectly in Pittsburgh but although they are playing well, Beltran may not think they're serious contenders. Putting Beltran in the lineup with Andrew McCutchen and Neil Walker would be a great addition for a franchise who hasn't seen the playoffs since 1992.
Boston Redsox: The Redsox have arguably the best offense in the MLB but that's not stopping them from thinking of trading for Beltran's bat. If you add Beltran to a lineup that already consists of Adrian Gonzalez,Dustin Pedroia,Kevin Youkilis,Carl Crawford,Jacoby Ellsbury and David Ortiz , opposing pitchers will have nightmares the night before they start against Boston. The thing is, is Redsox young prospect is already playing RF and is doing a fantastic job and making the Redsox think otherwise about adding Beltran when there farm system took a hit after the A-Gon deal in the winter. They have bigger issues with there rotation and bullpen, so i don't think Boston will get Beltran.
Detroit Tigers: The Tigers offense is being carried by Miguel Cabrera (what else is new), Johnny Peralta,Alex Avila and Brennan Boesch. Adding Beltran will solidify the lineup and make it one of the for real threats in the AL and could get them over the hump and back into the World Series for the first time since 2006 when they were swept by the St.Louis Cardinals. To go with the rotation that features Cy Young candidate Justin Verlander and young guns Max Scherzer and Rick Porcello, the Tigers could be a real threat in the playoffs if they can make it.
Cleveland Indians: Another surprise in the MLB this year, the Indians are two games back in the AL Central of the Tigers and could really use a outfield bat. This is where Carlos Beltran comes into the picture, with Grady Sizemore and Shin Soo-Choo on the DL, the Indians could use Beltran's middle of the order production to get them back in first place. There starting pitching has been a nice surprise and the offense isn't too bad but could definitely use Beltran's help to get them back in the playoffs.
Texas Rangers: This is a little puzzling since they already got Josh Hamilton and Nelson Cruz in the outfield and in the corner outfield spots. I'm not sure Beltran wants to move back to CF and the Rangers already got Endy Chavez,Chris Gentry and David Murphy all in the crowded outfield picture. Texas also already has a top notch offense led by Cruz and Hamilton so i don't know why they need to add more offense especially a Beltran type contributor. What they really need is pitching, a bullpen piece and a starter who can get them over the hump and get them away from the Angels in the AL West. Texas does have a deep farm system so they could maybe make two big additions like a Heath Bell/Mike Adams/Ubaldo Jimenez/Hiroki Kuroda/Carlos Beltran/Hunter Pence/B.J Upton/Anibal Sanchez/Leo Nunez/Michael Bourn.
Philadelphia Phillies: They could use an offensive piece and Carlos Beltran would be a huge addition to the lineup and would give them a starting outfield of Beltran,Victorino,Ibanez and they can send down Dom Brown to AAA or keep his bat on the bench. Philadelphia holds the best record in the MLB and Beltran does have postseason experience, so he could be a very key addition to the Phillies in there quest for another World Series title.
Atlanta Braves: They could really use an outfield bat and since Jason Heyward is in RF, maybe Beltran gets shifted back to CF or Heyward moves for Beltran. Their farm system is deep and they got great pitching prospects but aren't budging to give one up the best ones. They seem willing to give up Mike Minor, who the Mets recently scouted. Beltran would be a perfect addition to the Braves if they can get him and would be good leader heading into the playoffs.
San Francisco Giants: They desperately need offense since there young star catcher Buster Posey went down with a broken leg. Pablo Sandoval and Nate Schierholtz have been carrying the load on the offense. What's really got them soaring in first place is there pitching, both there rotation and bullpen. If they can add Beltran's bat to the offense, they might have a really good chance to repeat as World Series champions.
Milwaukee Brewers: The Brewers are going all in this year trying to win a World Series in what could be the final season in a Brewers uniform for young slugging first basemen Prince Fielder. They made trades for pitchers Zack Greinke and Shaun Marcum in the winter and added closer Frankie Rodriguez from the Mets during the all star break. There farm system is very thin so no one knows what they could offer that could woo Sandy Alderson in sending Beltran to Milwaukee. If Beltran goes to Milwaukee, he gets to play in RF and Corey Hart will be moved to CF. It'd also give them one of the top offenses in the game.
Pittsburgh Pirates: The team that is shocking the nation with there surprisingly great play so far are in a three way tie for first place in the NL Central with the Brewers and Cardinals. There young pitching is really carrying them as there offense could definitely use some veteran leadership and a middle of the order bat. Beltran would fit perfectly in Pittsburgh but although they are playing well, Beltran may not think they're serious contenders. Putting Beltran in the lineup with Andrew McCutchen and Neil Walker would be a great addition for a franchise who hasn't seen the playoffs since 1992.
Boston Redsox: The Redsox have arguably the best offense in the MLB but that's not stopping them from thinking of trading for Beltran's bat. If you add Beltran to a lineup that already consists of Adrian Gonzalez,Dustin Pedroia,Kevin Youkilis,Carl Crawford,Jacoby Ellsbury and David Ortiz , opposing pitchers will have nightmares the night before they start against Boston. The thing is, is Redsox young prospect is already playing RF and is doing a fantastic job and making the Redsox think otherwise about adding Beltran when there farm system took a hit after the A-Gon deal in the winter. They have bigger issues with there rotation and bullpen, so i don't think Boston will get Beltran.
Detroit Tigers: The Tigers offense is being carried by Miguel Cabrera (what else is new), Johnny Peralta,Alex Avila and Brennan Boesch. Adding Beltran will solidify the lineup and make it one of the for real threats in the AL and could get them over the hump and back into the World Series for the first time since 2006 when they were swept by the St.Louis Cardinals. To go with the rotation that features Cy Young candidate Justin Verlander and young guns Max Scherzer and Rick Porcello, the Tigers could be a real threat in the playoffs if they can make it.
Cleveland Indians: Another surprise in the MLB this year, the Indians are two games back in the AL Central of the Tigers and could really use a outfield bat. This is where Carlos Beltran comes into the picture, with Grady Sizemore and Shin Soo-Choo on the DL, the Indians could use Beltran's middle of the order production to get them back in first place. There starting pitching has been a nice surprise and the offense isn't too bad but could definitely use Beltran's help to get them back in the playoffs.
Texas Rangers: This is a little puzzling since they already got Josh Hamilton and Nelson Cruz in the outfield and in the corner outfield spots. I'm not sure Beltran wants to move back to CF and the Rangers already got Endy Chavez,Chris Gentry and David Murphy all in the crowded outfield picture. Texas also already has a top notch offense led by Cruz and Hamilton so i don't know why they need to add more offense especially a Beltran type contributor. What they really need is pitching, a bullpen piece and a starter who can get them over the hump and get them away from the Angels in the AL West. Texas does have a deep farm system so they could maybe make two big additions like a Heath Bell/Mike Adams/Ubaldo Jimenez/Hiroki Kuroda/Carlos Beltran/Hunter Pence/B.J Upton/Anibal Sanchez/Leo Nunez/Michael Bourn.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
1st Half MLB Awards
The all star break is upon us and that means its time to hand out the first half awards for the AL and NL. Here are my choices for the leaders in each category at the halfway mark of the season.
National League:
MVP: Jose Reyes, New York Mets SS - Reyes leads the league in stolen bases,hits,triples and average. Jose is putting together his greatest season since entering the league, he's also playing great defense at his shortstop position. He is a free agent after the season and is expected to get a bigger contract then fellow speedstar Carl Crawford got last winter when he ditched the Rays for the Redsox for a 7 year, $142 million deal. He recently hit the DL but is only expected to spend the minimum amount of time on the DL and return July 22nd. Honorable Mentions: Matt Kemp LAD, Prince Fielder MIL, Lance Berkman STL
Cy Young: Roy Halladay, Philadelphia Phillies - Doc Halladay is up to his usual tricks again holding down an 11-3 record at the break with a 2.45 ERA, 138 K's and a 1.01 WHIP. He is leading a Phillies rotation that also features Cy Young candidates Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels. Philadelphia holds the best record in the MLB at the break at 57-34. Honorable Mentions: Cliff Lee PHI, Cole Hamels PHI, Jair Jurrjens ATL, Tommy Hanson ATL
Rookie Of The Year: Craig Kimbrel, Atlanta Braves P - Kimbrel is absolutely doing a fantastic job in the ninth inning for the Braves. He has set the rookie record for most saves at the all star break with 28. He also shows off a 2.35 ERA and over 46 innings has struck out 70 batters and has a 1.04 WHIP. Kimbrel is quickly evolving into one of the games more dominant closers. Honorable Mentions: Danny Espinosa WAS, Freddy Freeman ATL, Dillon Gee NYM
Manager Of The Year: Clint Hurdle, Pittsburgh Pirates - Clint is leading a Pirates team who has no big names on the team unless you would call rising superstar Andrew McCutchen a big name by now. He has a veteran pitching staff with no real ace but solid pitchers that keep them in the game and have one of the best closers this year in Joel Hanrahan. McCutchen and Neil Walker lead the offense that always finds ways to scrape across enough runs to win the ball game. Pittsburgh is four games over .500 and sits one game behind first place in the NL Central. Honorable Mentions: Kirk Gibson ARI, Bruce Bochy SF, Tony La Russa STL, Terry Collins NYM
American League:
MVP: Adrian Gonzalez, Boston Redsox 1B - Gonzalez was traded last winter from the San Diego Padres to the Boston Redsox and signed a huge 7 year, $154 million contract extension before the 2011 season to keep him in Boston through 2018. Adrian leads the league in RBI's,AVG and Hits. He is carrying a great Redsox offense and leading the Redsox to first place in the AL East after the first half. Gonzalez is doing it all for Boston so far. Honorable Mentions: Jose Bautista TOR, Curtis Granderson NYY, Paul Konerko CHI, Miguel Cabrera DET
Cy Young: Justin Verlander, Detroit Tigers - Verlander is having arguably his best season of his career holding a 12-4 record and 2.15 ERA at the break. He has struck out 147 batters and has a 0.87 WHIP. He has a no hitter this year as well where he only walked one Blue Jay. Verlander is carrying the Tigers in the central division and keeping them in contention. Detroit currently sits ahalf game over Cleveland in the AL Central. Honorable Mentions: Jered Weaver LAA, C.C Sabathia NYY, Josh Beckett BOS, James Shields TB
Rookie Of The Year: Michael Pineda, Seattle Mariners P - Pineda is having a very solid rookie season in Seattle showing off a 8-6 record with a 3.03 ERA, 113 K's and a 1.03 WHIP. He has serious gas to his fast ball and is really taking control of hitters. It's Pineda's award to lose i believe and the way hes pitching, he may run away with rookie of the year. Honorable Mentions: Eric Hosmer KC, Alexi Ogando TEX, Jordan Walden LAA
Manager Of The Year: Manny Acta, Cleveland Indians - Manny Acta is doing an incredible job with this Indians team, seating them a half game out of first place in the AL Central. No one gave Cleveland a shot at contention this year but the Indians are a very relentless team and are sticking around due to there phenominal young pitching. If the Indians stay in contention all year, i can see Manny Acta winning this award. Honorable Mentions: Terry Francona BOS, Joe Maddon TB, Ron Washington TEX, Mike Scioscia LAA
You can follow me on twitter at @ScoreboardSteve
National League:
MVP: Jose Reyes, New York Mets SS - Reyes leads the league in stolen bases,hits,triples and average. Jose is putting together his greatest season since entering the league, he's also playing great defense at his shortstop position. He is a free agent after the season and is expected to get a bigger contract then fellow speedstar Carl Crawford got last winter when he ditched the Rays for the Redsox for a 7 year, $142 million deal. He recently hit the DL but is only expected to spend the minimum amount of time on the DL and return July 22nd. Honorable Mentions: Matt Kemp LAD, Prince Fielder MIL, Lance Berkman STL
Cy Young: Roy Halladay, Philadelphia Phillies - Doc Halladay is up to his usual tricks again holding down an 11-3 record at the break with a 2.45 ERA, 138 K's and a 1.01 WHIP. He is leading a Phillies rotation that also features Cy Young candidates Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels. Philadelphia holds the best record in the MLB at the break at 57-34. Honorable Mentions: Cliff Lee PHI, Cole Hamels PHI, Jair Jurrjens ATL, Tommy Hanson ATL
Rookie Of The Year: Craig Kimbrel, Atlanta Braves P - Kimbrel is absolutely doing a fantastic job in the ninth inning for the Braves. He has set the rookie record for most saves at the all star break with 28. He also shows off a 2.35 ERA and over 46 innings has struck out 70 batters and has a 1.04 WHIP. Kimbrel is quickly evolving into one of the games more dominant closers. Honorable Mentions: Danny Espinosa WAS, Freddy Freeman ATL, Dillon Gee NYM
Manager Of The Year: Clint Hurdle, Pittsburgh Pirates - Clint is leading a Pirates team who has no big names on the team unless you would call rising superstar Andrew McCutchen a big name by now. He has a veteran pitching staff with no real ace but solid pitchers that keep them in the game and have one of the best closers this year in Joel Hanrahan. McCutchen and Neil Walker lead the offense that always finds ways to scrape across enough runs to win the ball game. Pittsburgh is four games over .500 and sits one game behind first place in the NL Central. Honorable Mentions: Kirk Gibson ARI, Bruce Bochy SF, Tony La Russa STL, Terry Collins NYM
American League:
MVP: Adrian Gonzalez, Boston Redsox 1B - Gonzalez was traded last winter from the San Diego Padres to the Boston Redsox and signed a huge 7 year, $154 million contract extension before the 2011 season to keep him in Boston through 2018. Adrian leads the league in RBI's,AVG and Hits. He is carrying a great Redsox offense and leading the Redsox to first place in the AL East after the first half. Gonzalez is doing it all for Boston so far. Honorable Mentions: Jose Bautista TOR, Curtis Granderson NYY, Paul Konerko CHI, Miguel Cabrera DET
Cy Young: Justin Verlander, Detroit Tigers - Verlander is having arguably his best season of his career holding a 12-4 record and 2.15 ERA at the break. He has struck out 147 batters and has a 0.87 WHIP. He has a no hitter this year as well where he only walked one Blue Jay. Verlander is carrying the Tigers in the central division and keeping them in contention. Detroit currently sits ahalf game over Cleveland in the AL Central. Honorable Mentions: Jered Weaver LAA, C.C Sabathia NYY, Josh Beckett BOS, James Shields TB
Rookie Of The Year: Michael Pineda, Seattle Mariners P - Pineda is having a very solid rookie season in Seattle showing off a 8-6 record with a 3.03 ERA, 113 K's and a 1.03 WHIP. He has serious gas to his fast ball and is really taking control of hitters. It's Pineda's award to lose i believe and the way hes pitching, he may run away with rookie of the year. Honorable Mentions: Eric Hosmer KC, Alexi Ogando TEX, Jordan Walden LAA
Manager Of The Year: Manny Acta, Cleveland Indians - Manny Acta is doing an incredible job with this Indians team, seating them a half game out of first place in the AL Central. No one gave Cleveland a shot at contention this year but the Indians are a very relentless team and are sticking around due to there phenominal young pitching. If the Indians stay in contention all year, i can see Manny Acta winning this award. Honorable Mentions: Terry Francona BOS, Joe Maddon TB, Ron Washington TEX, Mike Scioscia LAA
You can follow me on twitter at @ScoreboardSteve
Sunday, July 10, 2011
My AL and NL All Star Teams
Derek Jeter starting at shortstop for the AL? Really? This is a reason why fan voting should be abolished from the MLB All Star game. The fans voted Derek Jeter to start at shortstop for the AL, (.270 AVG , 3 HRs , 24 RBIs , .330 OBP , .683 OPS). Are those all star numbers? I don't think so. More deserving of the starting spot would've been the Cleveland Indians' Asdrubal Cabrera (.293 AVG , 14 HRs , 51 RBIs , .347 OBP , .836 OPS) or the Detroit Tigers' Jhonny Peralta (.310 AVG , 14 HRs , 50 RBIs , .360 OBP , .887 OPS). Yet, these guys are merely backups. Derek Jeter yesterday, got his 3,000th career hit and two days before announced he will pull out of the all star game to rest his calf. That is the only reason why Cabrera has the starting job at shortstop for the AL in the all star team, because Jeter pulled out. Shouldn't he have been starting in the first place? That's whats messed up with the fan voting, it's pretty much a popularity contest when voting. Another position where fan voting did not get it right was the NL third base position where the Philadelphia Phillies Placido Polanco was voted the starting 3B for the NL. The usual stars at the third base position in the NL have spent big chunks of time on the DL this year, the Nationals Ryan Zimmerman , the Mets David Wright and the Giants Pablo Sandoval. Placido Polanco has been having an ok season but why is no one looking at the Cubs Aramis Ramirez? Here are Polanco and Ramirez's stats and you judge who should start. Polanco: (.274 AVG , 4 HRs , 39 RBIs , .331 OBP , .676 OPS) and Ramirez (.299 AVG , 15 HRs , 51 RBIs , .347 OBP , .846 OPS). Clearly, Aramis Ramirez should be starting for the NL at third base but the fans messed it up. The backup third basemen is the Braves Chipper Jones, who yesterday underwent surgery on his knee, so he is out of the all star game and is being replaced by the Reds Scott Rolen. Are you kidding me? Scott Rolen? I guess no one likes the Cubs at all since Aramis Ramirez isn't getting a call to be on the roster as at least a back up third basemen. I really hope the MLB gets rid of fan voting and gets a panal of hall of famers or employees in the MLB front office to vote who gets a roster spot for each league. Anyway, here is my All Star rosters, they may include players who have recently landed on the DL but im going by best numbers, so here we go.
American League:
C-Alex Avila , Detroit Tigers
1B-Adrian Gonzalez , Boston Redsox
2B-Robinson Cano , New York Yankees
3B-Alex Rodriguez , New York Yankees
SS-Asdrubal Cabrera , Cleveland Indians
OF-Jose Bautista , Toronto Blue Jays
OF-Curtis Granderson , New York Yankees
OF-Jacoby Ellsbury , Boston Redsox
DH-David Ortiz , Boston Redsox
P-Justin Verlander , Detroit Tigers
P-CC Sabathia , New York Yankees
P-Jon Lester , Boston Redsox
P-Josh Beckett , Boston Redsox
P-James Shields , Tampa Bay Rays
P-Jered Weaver , Los Angeles Angels
P-Dan Haren , Los Angeles Angels
P-Michael Pineda , Seattle Mariners
P-Mariano Rivera , New York Yankees
P-Jose Valverde , Detroit Tigers
P-Jordan Walden , Los Angeles Angels
P-Brandon League , Seattle Mariners
P-Chris Perez , Cleveland Indians
P-David Robertson , New York Yankees
Reserves:
C-A.J Pierzynski , Chicago Whitesox
1B-Paul Konerko , Chicago Whitesox
1B-Miguel Cabrera , Detroit Tigers
2B-Howie Kendrick , Los Angeles Angels
3B-Adrian Beltre , Texas Rangers
3B-Kevin Youkilis , Boston Redsox
SS-Jhonny Peralta , Detroit Tigers
OF-Josh Hamilton , Texas Rangers
OF-Brennan Boesch , Detroit Tigers
OF-Matt Joyce , Tampa Bay Rays
OF-Michael Cuddyer , Minnesota Twins
National League:
C-Brian McCann , Atlanta Braves
1B-Prince Fielder , Milwaukee Brewers
2B-Rickie Weeks , Milwaukee Brewers
3B-Aramis Ramirez , Chicago Cubs
SS-Jose Reyes , New York Mets
OF-Ryan Braun , Milwaukee Brewers
OF-Matt Kemp , Los Angeles Dodgers
OF-Lance Berkman , St.Louis Cardinals
P-Roy Halladay , Philadelphia Phillies
P-Cliff Lee , Philadelphia Phillies
P-Cole Hamels , Philadelphia Phillies
P-Jair Jurrjens , Atlanta Braves
P-Tommy Hanson , Atlanta Braves
P-Clayton Kershaw , Los Angeles Dodgers
P-Ryan Vogelsong , San Francisco Giants
P-Ian Kennedy , Arizona Diamondbacks
P-Craig Kimbrel , Atlanta Braves
P-Drew Storen , Washington Nationals
P-Leo Nunez , Florida Marlins
P-Joel Hanrahan , Pittsburgh Pirates
P-Heath Bell , San Diego Padres
P-Jonny Venters , Atlanta Braves
Reserves:
C-Miguel Montero , Arizona Diamondbacks
1B-Joey Votto , Cincinnati Reds
1B-Gaby Sanchez , Florida Marlins
2B-Brandon Phillips , Cincinnati Reds
3B-Pablo Sandoval , San Francisco Giants
3B-Chase Headley , San Diego Padres
SS-Troy Tulowitzki , Colorado Rockies
OF-Carlos Beltran , New York Mets
OF-Andrew McCutchen , Pittsburgh Pirates
OF-Hunter Pence , Houston Astros
OF-Matt Holliday , St.Louis Cardinals
OF-Justin Upton , Arizona Diamondbacks
Final score prediction: NL 7 AL 5. National League secures home field in the World Series!
American League:
C-Alex Avila , Detroit Tigers
1B-Adrian Gonzalez , Boston Redsox
2B-Robinson Cano , New York Yankees
3B-Alex Rodriguez , New York Yankees
SS-Asdrubal Cabrera , Cleveland Indians
OF-Jose Bautista , Toronto Blue Jays
OF-Curtis Granderson , New York Yankees
OF-Jacoby Ellsbury , Boston Redsox
DH-David Ortiz , Boston Redsox
P-Justin Verlander , Detroit Tigers
P-CC Sabathia , New York Yankees
P-Jon Lester , Boston Redsox
P-Josh Beckett , Boston Redsox
P-James Shields , Tampa Bay Rays
P-Jered Weaver , Los Angeles Angels
P-Dan Haren , Los Angeles Angels
P-Michael Pineda , Seattle Mariners
P-Mariano Rivera , New York Yankees
P-Jose Valverde , Detroit Tigers
P-Jordan Walden , Los Angeles Angels
P-Brandon League , Seattle Mariners
P-Chris Perez , Cleveland Indians
P-David Robertson , New York Yankees
Reserves:
C-A.J Pierzynski , Chicago Whitesox
1B-Paul Konerko , Chicago Whitesox
1B-Miguel Cabrera , Detroit Tigers
2B-Howie Kendrick , Los Angeles Angels
3B-Adrian Beltre , Texas Rangers
3B-Kevin Youkilis , Boston Redsox
SS-Jhonny Peralta , Detroit Tigers
OF-Josh Hamilton , Texas Rangers
OF-Brennan Boesch , Detroit Tigers
OF-Matt Joyce , Tampa Bay Rays
OF-Michael Cuddyer , Minnesota Twins
National League:
C-Brian McCann , Atlanta Braves
1B-Prince Fielder , Milwaukee Brewers
2B-Rickie Weeks , Milwaukee Brewers
3B-Aramis Ramirez , Chicago Cubs
SS-Jose Reyes , New York Mets
OF-Ryan Braun , Milwaukee Brewers
OF-Matt Kemp , Los Angeles Dodgers
OF-Lance Berkman , St.Louis Cardinals
P-Roy Halladay , Philadelphia Phillies
P-Cliff Lee , Philadelphia Phillies
P-Cole Hamels , Philadelphia Phillies
P-Jair Jurrjens , Atlanta Braves
P-Tommy Hanson , Atlanta Braves
P-Clayton Kershaw , Los Angeles Dodgers
P-Ryan Vogelsong , San Francisco Giants
P-Ian Kennedy , Arizona Diamondbacks
P-Craig Kimbrel , Atlanta Braves
P-Drew Storen , Washington Nationals
P-Leo Nunez , Florida Marlins
P-Joel Hanrahan , Pittsburgh Pirates
P-Heath Bell , San Diego Padres
P-Jonny Venters , Atlanta Braves
Reserves:
C-Miguel Montero , Arizona Diamondbacks
1B-Joey Votto , Cincinnati Reds
1B-Gaby Sanchez , Florida Marlins
2B-Brandon Phillips , Cincinnati Reds
3B-Pablo Sandoval , San Francisco Giants
3B-Chase Headley , San Diego Padres
SS-Troy Tulowitzki , Colorado Rockies
OF-Carlos Beltran , New York Mets
OF-Andrew McCutchen , Pittsburgh Pirates
OF-Hunter Pence , Houston Astros
OF-Matt Holliday , St.Louis Cardinals
OF-Justin Upton , Arizona Diamondbacks
Final score prediction: NL 7 AL 5. National League secures home field in the World Series!
Friday, June 24, 2011
NBA Lottery Draft Grades
Here are my grades for the NBA Lottery Draft Selections.
1.Cleveland Cavaliers: Kyrie Irving (1) & Tristan Thompson (4). - They took the best prospect in the draft in Irving at #1, which was a no brainer. They now have a future star at point guard which is huge in the NBA now because it is now a point guard's league. They then pulled off a shocker at #4 and took Texas forward Tristan Thompson. Thompson is a good athlete but i don't know about the decision to take him at #4. Some people were expecting Enes Kanter or Jonas Valanciunas but they took someone that played in the NCAA in Thompson. Tristan has good potential but time will tell if he was worth the #4 pick over Valanciunas,Kemba Walker,Jan Vesely. Draft Grade: B+
2.Minnesota Timberwolves: Derrick Williams (2) - They took the second best prospect in Derrick Williams which was also another no brainer after Irving. He is very versatile, can shoot the three , grab rebounds, and is an explosive play maker. Some people don't know if he is a 3 or 4, which could make some people wonder if Williams was the absolute right choice for Minnesota. With 2009's fifth overall pick, Ricky Rubio finally arriving in Minnesota, the T-Wolves got Rubio another young star to work with and with Kevin Love and Michael Beasley already with the team, they have the makings of a very good young team for the future. Draft Grade: A
3.Utah Jazz: Enes Kanter (3) & Alec Burks (12) - Some people thought they would take Kentucky point guard Brandon Knight at #3 but they pulled off a bit of a shocker taking the big man from Turkey in Kanter who is profiled as a very good big who will do great in the NBA, i like the pick for the Jazz as it shows they're not giving up on Devin Harris at point guard who was acquired in February in the Deron Williams trade to the Nets. Kanter is another big man to put in the mix with Derrick Favors,Al Jefferson and Paul Millsap, so you would think they'll dangle one of the veterans Jefferson or Millsap in a trade. They took Alec Burks out of Colorado at #12 which isn't a bad pick as they needed help at guard, he can score and could be a two guard or provide a spark of the bench but he needs to work on defense. Draft Grade: A-
4.Toronto Raptors: Jonas Valanciunas (5) - The Raptors have had bad luck in the drafts but Valanciunas is a good pick although he may not be here next year but with a potential lockout looming, it may not be so bad and plus, Toronto isn't expected to contend anyway. Valanciunas gives the Raptors a future big who some people say is better then Kanter. Jonas has said that he reminds himself of a former Raptors player in Chris Bosh who left Toronto one year ago to join LeBron James and Dwyane Wade in Miami. If Valancuinas is here for the 2012-2013 season and shows why he was selected fifth overall, the Raptors will have finally made a good choice. Draft Grade: B+
5.Washington Wizards: Jan Vesely (6) & Chris Singleton (18) - Vesely is an animal, only 21 years old and stands at 6'11 and may still be growing, he can dunk with authority and can hit shots from deep. To me, Vesely is a no brainer at #6. They had the #18 pick and took Florida State forward Chris Singleton who many say is the best defensive player in the draft and should fit in fine with Washington. John Wall must have been very happy with the Wizards draft last night to get a big man and a versatile forward in Singleton. Good job by the Wizards last night: Draft Grade: A+
6.Charlotte Bobcats: Bismack Biyombo (7) & Kemba Walker (9) - They took a defensive beast in Biyombo from Congo but he terminated his contract and there is controversy there for breach of contract so we'll see how that plays out. He can rebound a lot, great shot blocker but he has absolutely no offensive game. They then took Kemba Walker at 9 who owner Michael Jordan likes a lot. Kemba is a national champion at UCONN and lit up the Big East in the Big East Tournament back in March and carried Connecticut to the National Title in the NCAA Tournament. He's a SG who can score and get his fare share of rebounds but his size at 6'3 is a drawback but he should fit in well with the Bobcats. Draft Grade: B+
7.Detroit Pistons: Brandon Knight (8) - They were really hoping that Tristan Thompson would fall to them at 8 but when Cleveland shook up the whole draft and took Thompson, Detroit had to look in another direction. They liked Biyombo, who Charlotte took one pick earlier and with Brandon Knight still available, it was a no brainer to take Knight the freshmen point guard out of Kentucky. Knight can now run the the point in Detroit, who need a lot of help. The Pistons already have a good down low player in Greg Monroe so things seem to be looking up in Detroit but more work has to be done to the team. Draft Grade: A
8.Sacramento Kings: Jimmer Fredette (10) - The Kings really liked Jimmer and got a great young front court in Jimmer Fredette and Tyreke Evans. Jimmer doesn't offer any defense and not much of a true point guard but with no actual PG in Sacramento, its his job for the taking in day 1. If Jimmer can work on his defense, the Kings may have a great back court in Jimmer and Evans. It may be the Kings last season in Sacramento, so they'll try to make it a memorable one. Draft Grade: C+
9.Golden State Warriors: Klay Thompson (11) - The Warriors always coveted him and didn't think he'd fall this far but they got there man. Thompson was once compared to Reggie Miller in that his body size is just like Millers and he can shoot the 3 very well. His size should give him no problem going against other shooting guards. He seems as if he's the most NBA ready player right off the bat. Draft Grade: A+
10. Phoenix Suns: Markieff Morris (13) - His brother Marcus is the better of the two but Markieff has a natural position at PF and should help out a lot on the defensive and offensive side of the ball in his rookie year in Phoenix. Not a bad choice but i might have considered Marcus. Draft Grade: B+
11.Houston Rockets: Marcus Morris (14) & Donatas Montiejunas (20) - Marcus Morris gets picked one behind brother Markieff. He has a better offensive game and can get shots to go down. He needs to work on his defense a little to be able to matchup good against other PF's in the future. Marcus is not a true PF as he is more of a 3/4. Donatas Montiejunas was acquired in a trade with the Timberwolves and he is a seven foot tall center who needs to get stronger if he wants to be Yao Ming's successor. Montiejunas is a force down low and is a good trade for the Rockets. Draft Grade: B
The Washington Wizards are my pick as the big winners in the lottery getting a good big man in Vesely and a defensive beast in Singleton to play small forward. Things sure are starting to look up in Washington.
1.Cleveland Cavaliers: Kyrie Irving (1) & Tristan Thompson (4). - They took the best prospect in the draft in Irving at #1, which was a no brainer. They now have a future star at point guard which is huge in the NBA now because it is now a point guard's league. They then pulled off a shocker at #4 and took Texas forward Tristan Thompson. Thompson is a good athlete but i don't know about the decision to take him at #4. Some people were expecting Enes Kanter or Jonas Valanciunas but they took someone that played in the NCAA in Thompson. Tristan has good potential but time will tell if he was worth the #4 pick over Valanciunas,Kemba Walker,Jan Vesely. Draft Grade: B+
2.Minnesota Timberwolves: Derrick Williams (2) - They took the second best prospect in Derrick Williams which was also another no brainer after Irving. He is very versatile, can shoot the three , grab rebounds, and is an explosive play maker. Some people don't know if he is a 3 or 4, which could make some people wonder if Williams was the absolute right choice for Minnesota. With 2009's fifth overall pick, Ricky Rubio finally arriving in Minnesota, the T-Wolves got Rubio another young star to work with and with Kevin Love and Michael Beasley already with the team, they have the makings of a very good young team for the future. Draft Grade: A
3.Utah Jazz: Enes Kanter (3) & Alec Burks (12) - Some people thought they would take Kentucky point guard Brandon Knight at #3 but they pulled off a bit of a shocker taking the big man from Turkey in Kanter who is profiled as a very good big who will do great in the NBA, i like the pick for the Jazz as it shows they're not giving up on Devin Harris at point guard who was acquired in February in the Deron Williams trade to the Nets. Kanter is another big man to put in the mix with Derrick Favors,Al Jefferson and Paul Millsap, so you would think they'll dangle one of the veterans Jefferson or Millsap in a trade. They took Alec Burks out of Colorado at #12 which isn't a bad pick as they needed help at guard, he can score and could be a two guard or provide a spark of the bench but he needs to work on defense. Draft Grade: A-
4.Toronto Raptors: Jonas Valanciunas (5) - The Raptors have had bad luck in the drafts but Valanciunas is a good pick although he may not be here next year but with a potential lockout looming, it may not be so bad and plus, Toronto isn't expected to contend anyway. Valanciunas gives the Raptors a future big who some people say is better then Kanter. Jonas has said that he reminds himself of a former Raptors player in Chris Bosh who left Toronto one year ago to join LeBron James and Dwyane Wade in Miami. If Valancuinas is here for the 2012-2013 season and shows why he was selected fifth overall, the Raptors will have finally made a good choice. Draft Grade: B+
5.Washington Wizards: Jan Vesely (6) & Chris Singleton (18) - Vesely is an animal, only 21 years old and stands at 6'11 and may still be growing, he can dunk with authority and can hit shots from deep. To me, Vesely is a no brainer at #6. They had the #18 pick and took Florida State forward Chris Singleton who many say is the best defensive player in the draft and should fit in fine with Washington. John Wall must have been very happy with the Wizards draft last night to get a big man and a versatile forward in Singleton. Good job by the Wizards last night: Draft Grade: A+
6.Charlotte Bobcats: Bismack Biyombo (7) & Kemba Walker (9) - They took a defensive beast in Biyombo from Congo but he terminated his contract and there is controversy there for breach of contract so we'll see how that plays out. He can rebound a lot, great shot blocker but he has absolutely no offensive game. They then took Kemba Walker at 9 who owner Michael Jordan likes a lot. Kemba is a national champion at UCONN and lit up the Big East in the Big East Tournament back in March and carried Connecticut to the National Title in the NCAA Tournament. He's a SG who can score and get his fare share of rebounds but his size at 6'3 is a drawback but he should fit in well with the Bobcats. Draft Grade: B+
7.Detroit Pistons: Brandon Knight (8) - They were really hoping that Tristan Thompson would fall to them at 8 but when Cleveland shook up the whole draft and took Thompson, Detroit had to look in another direction. They liked Biyombo, who Charlotte took one pick earlier and with Brandon Knight still available, it was a no brainer to take Knight the freshmen point guard out of Kentucky. Knight can now run the the point in Detroit, who need a lot of help. The Pistons already have a good down low player in Greg Monroe so things seem to be looking up in Detroit but more work has to be done to the team. Draft Grade: A
8.Sacramento Kings: Jimmer Fredette (10) - The Kings really liked Jimmer and got a great young front court in Jimmer Fredette and Tyreke Evans. Jimmer doesn't offer any defense and not much of a true point guard but with no actual PG in Sacramento, its his job for the taking in day 1. If Jimmer can work on his defense, the Kings may have a great back court in Jimmer and Evans. It may be the Kings last season in Sacramento, so they'll try to make it a memorable one. Draft Grade: C+
9.Golden State Warriors: Klay Thompson (11) - The Warriors always coveted him and didn't think he'd fall this far but they got there man. Thompson was once compared to Reggie Miller in that his body size is just like Millers and he can shoot the 3 very well. His size should give him no problem going against other shooting guards. He seems as if he's the most NBA ready player right off the bat. Draft Grade: A+
10. Phoenix Suns: Markieff Morris (13) - His brother Marcus is the better of the two but Markieff has a natural position at PF and should help out a lot on the defensive and offensive side of the ball in his rookie year in Phoenix. Not a bad choice but i might have considered Marcus. Draft Grade: B+
11.Houston Rockets: Marcus Morris (14) & Donatas Montiejunas (20) - Marcus Morris gets picked one behind brother Markieff. He has a better offensive game and can get shots to go down. He needs to work on his defense a little to be able to matchup good against other PF's in the future. Marcus is not a true PF as he is more of a 3/4. Donatas Montiejunas was acquired in a trade with the Timberwolves and he is a seven foot tall center who needs to get stronger if he wants to be Yao Ming's successor. Montiejunas is a force down low and is a good trade for the Rockets. Draft Grade: B
The Washington Wizards are my pick as the big winners in the lottery getting a good big man in Vesely and a defensive beast in Singleton to play small forward. Things sure are starting to look up in Washington.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
NBA Mock Draft
Here's my mock draft for tonights draft for first 20 picks.
1.Kyrie Irving, Duke - Cleveland Cavaliers
2.Derrick Williams, Arizona - Minnesota Timberwolves
3.Enes Kanter, Turkey - Utah Jazz
4.Jonas Valanciunas, Lithuania - Cleveland Cavaliers
5.Brandon Knight, Kentucky - Toronto Raptors
6.Jan Vesely, Czech Republic - Washington Wizards
7.Bismack Biyombo, Baloncesto Fuenlabrada - Charlotte Bobcats
8.Tristan Thompson, Texas - Detroit Pistons
9.Chris Singleton, Florida State - Charlotte Bobcats
10.Jimmer Fredette, BYU - Sacramento Kings
11.Klay Thompson, Washington State - Golden State Warriors
12.Kemba Walker, Connecticut - Utah Jazz
13.Kawhi Leonard, San Diego State - Phoenix Suns
14.Marcus Morris, Kansas - Houston Rockets
15.Marshon Brooks, Providence - Indiana Pacers
16.Markief Morris, Kansas - Philadelphia 76'ers
17.Nikola Vucevic, USC - New York Knicks
18.Alec Burks, Colorado - Washington Wizards
19.Iman Shumpert, Georgia Tech - Milwaukee Bucks
20.Donatas Motiejunas, Benetton Treviso - Minnesota Timberwolves
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