Four Down and Three to Go

"Holy crap, Dirk has a 102 degree fever, Jason Kidd died, and Jason Terry ran his mouth about LeBron James." I swear to you those were my thoughts as I prepared to observe the crucial Game 4 between the Mavericks and Heat. If, while reading my thoughts, you heard a glimmer of hope you heard wrong. Instead, the sentiment was more along the lines of the feeling you would get if Brad Pitt shot your girl a flirtatious glance. Really? I have no shot.

Then the game played out and something happened I never imagined, James played more like "pre-Gasol" Kobe Bryant. He just looked disinterested. Almost, as if to say, "fine, you think it's Wades' team? Let's see how they do without me." Seriously, I have watched the game twice now and that is the only conclusion I can come to. James' inability to get involved crippled the Heat. The Mavericks had no business winning the game. Terry finally contributes with 8 points in the 4th quarter, Kidd slashed to the basket and made the defense work (oh yea, that was Barea) Kidd continues to be dead, and Dirk was missing shots he would normally hit with ease. Yet, it was enough.

As both teams head into Thursdays Game 5, we see two stories shaping up rit in front of us. The Mavericks are finding just enou ways to stay in the games and make this one of the most exciting series in history, while the Heat are on the verge of tearing at the seems. Yes, the Heat prognostication seems a little drastic but if James comes close to emulating Game 4 than will they not be unraveled?

As a fan of the Mavericks, I offer no predicition or false hope ( if I did it would read like this: LeBron James takes every shot in the first quarter and then walks off the floor with both hands flashing "#1" never to be seen again. But I won't share hopes). Instead, I hope we continue to see a great series. Let's appreciate greatness when greatness is before us.

Absence Makes the Heart...

You know the saying. "Absence makes the heart grow fonder." We hope this is true for you considering that we have been absent for two weeks changing our approach. We would like to hear  from you as to what things you would like to see (Interviews with players, top ten lists, poll questions, etc.). We look to "restart" Monday April 18th. We have interviews with former Clemson RB Jamie Harper and sports writer Ed Maisonet, creator of http://www.edthesportsfan.com/, already lined up for you guys and gals to enjoy. So make sure to stay plugged in and offer any advice or criticisms. Thanks and we hope to see you back soon.

MLB Predictions

PLAY BALL! Sorry, I'm just a little excited. I think I speak for all of us here that Opening Day should be a holiday. Baseball is our favorite sport so I thought I'd give my predictions for the year. Tell us how you think this season ends up as well. -Collin

AL East

Boston Red Sox
New York Yankees
Tampa Bay Rays
Toronto Blue Jays
Baltimore Orioles

AL Central

Minnesota Twins

Detroit Tigers

Chicago White Sox

Kansas City Royals

Cleveland Indians

AL West

Texas Rangers

Oakland A's

Los Angeles Angels

Seattle Mariners

AL Cy Young: Jon Lester

AL MVP: Robinson Cano

AL Rookie of the Year: Michael Pineda

NL East

Atlanta Braves

Philadelphia Phillies

Florida Marlins

Washington Nationals

New York Mets

NL Central

Milwaukee Brewers

Cincinnati Reds

St Louis Cardinals

Pittsburgh Pirates

Chicago Cubs

Houston Astros

NL West

Colorado Rockies

San Francisco Giants

Los Angeles Dodgers

San Diego Padres

Arizona Diamonbacks

NL Cy Young: Zack Greinke

NL MVP: Troy Tulowitzki

NL Rookie of the Year: Freddie Freeman

"Maddening March"

Quick, tell me what VCU stands for. What is their mascot? Where is Butler located? I am willing to guess that you were unable to answer all three of those without hesitation and Google. The national media tells us that this is the beauty of the NCAA tournament, that every team has a chance to win the Championship. No year has epitomized that notion quite like this year's NCAA tournament.
Butler (8 seed) and VCU (11) have reached the Final Four by defeating the likes of Kansas, Florida, Pittsburgh, and Florida State...OK, well, the first three were upsets. No one, expert or amateur, predicted VCU to escape the first round, much less make the Final Four. (This is the part where we recall what Dick Vitale had to say about VCU making the tourney.) As great as the stories have been, does the public really want to see Butler of VCU crowned champion?
March Madness is great for the casual observer. Cinderella stories are essentially what drives the NCAA tournament but are they really good for the sport? Sure, it is an entertaining story but ratings show that people would rather view two "powerhouses" instead of two mid conference teams. Veiwership is the ultimate reason for the tournament field being as large as it is. More viewers equals more revenue. You understand.
I find March Madness frustrating. It tears me in two between the fan who wants to see strictly entertaining games and the fan who wants to watch the sport be played at its best by its best. The concept of a playoff in NCAA football is entertaining and the case is strong for one. My hesitation lies in its ability to stay exclusive. If, and only if, the officials can gurantee to limit a football playoff to the top 6 or 8 teams would I sign off. Remember, viewership is the goal of all this; not Championships. The more teams brought into the field the more people watch your program. You understand.
So as America sits back this weekend to watch Cinderella prolong midnight, ask yourself if the idea of Butler or VCU calling themselves the best team in the nation sits well with you as a fan of sport.

NBA Most Underrated

It is a common topic within any sports community, who is the most "underrated" player. What qualifies a player as underrated? Salary? All-Star votes? Followers on Twitter? Whatever the logic one chooses, every list, without fail, stirs some type of debate. It is one of the many beauties of athletics.
Top Underrated NBA players is compiled on a wide range of sources. As I am currently reading Jonah Keri"s The Extra 2%, my mind is forcing itself to look beyond the traditional statistics. Thus, along with personal perception and traditional stat lines (i.e PPG/RPG/APG), I will also be incorporating Hollinger's saber-metric system ratings. (No Big Baby, you will not be in this list I don't  care how much you try and say you deserve it.)

That attachment to her shoulder is
Nets forward Kris Humphries.

10. Kris Humphries PF-Nets- I should probably show you his 10.2 rebounds per game or the fact that he his shooting 53% from the field. Maybe, mentioning his 17.86 PER (Player Efficiency Rating) would convince you. What if I told you this guy landed a Kardashian? Now you understand why he is underrated.

9. Danny Granger SF-Pacers- Scoring 20 points a game is enough to justify the offense running through him even though he is only pulling 2 rebounds  per game. Leading the Pacers to playoff contention, even after a coaching change, seems to go unnoticed.

8. Dwight Howard C- Magic- That is correct. 23 PPG, 14.3 RPG and a PER of 26.27 (2nd in the NBA) and he still does not get the respect that he deserves. He is officiated differently than any other superstar. His supporting cast is dependent on the "three" ball far too much to be considered a legitimate threat in the playoffs. Yet, he continues to dominate the NBA and lead his team to contention every year.

7. Luol Deng SF-Bulls- Derrick Rose is the flavor of the month and deservedly so. However, without Deng the Bulls would lose not only 17 points a game but also their top perimeter defender. According to Hollinger, if Deng were not on the Bulls, they could expect a 7 win/loss differential. According to a report by the Chicago Tribune, Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau said Deng is an "All League defender, he guards everybody."  Pretty substantial for a guy we never hear about.

6. Nene C-Nuggets- He has no stat line that stands out to you. He only brings in 7 rebounds a game, little offensive production but he is always around. Watch the Nuggets and you cannot help but notice Nene. He is the Gruden of the NBA, nothing great but for some reason he is all over my television.

5. Monta Ellis SG-Warriors- Electric comes to mind. So does Allen Iverson but we will instead focus on electric. Bringing 24 points into every game along with almost 6 assists, Ellis finds himself overshadowed by Steph Curry and the obscurity that is due to the Warriors being forever irrelevant.

4. Kevin Martin SG- Rockets- Top 20 in both PER and EWA (estimated wins over replacement) as well as 23 points a game and somehow he continues to go unmentioned by most media outlets. Sure, winning will alleviate some of this issue but the man has game regardless of wins and losses.

3. Kevin Love PF/C- Timberwolves- How does a guy whose historic double-double streak made nightly highlights make the underrated list? Did you know that besides his 20 points and 15 rebounds per game he has an estimated win/loss differential of 16.5. Here is a little perspective. Kobe Bryant has a 15.9, Nash has 11.7 and Dirk has 13.7. Those three have 4 regular season MVPs.

2. Russell Westbrook PG- Thunder- He barely made the All Star team, and when you mention Thunder, Kevin Durant instantly enters one's mind (for good reason). However, on any other team Westbrook would be the face of the team. Derrick Rose is considered by most to be the runaway MVP. Rose and Westbrook are 1 and 2 in scoring by PGs. As far as PER, APG, RPG and Steal per game; Westbrook leads Rose.


1. Zach Randolph PF-Grizzlies- Is this the same guy who was traded by numerous teams because of character issues and work ethic? On a team with Rudy Gay (if I ever write an "Overrated" list I believe I have a lead candidate), OJ Mayo, and Mark Gasol, Randolph is the catalyst. Averaging 20 PPG as well as 12.3 RPG, Randolph has carried the Grizzlies to playoff contention in the Western Conference and you never even heard about it.

Fantasy Draft Diary

20 dollars. It's all it cost for me to play fantasy baseball with my guys. 20 dollars. It's a number I prefer not to remind my wife of until after the season has begun. (Newlyweds. You either understand or will one day). At this moment, post 12 AM, I am about to start a baseball draft and I have decided to journal it for you all to read and enjoy as I am sure you will.

This is the view during my offline
draft.  Now you know why
 Im doing this online. 

Pre-Draft:

One team name in this lobby is "Honey Nut Ichiros". This was a horrible idea already. 

I would prefer to get a middle round pick and load heavy on infield with pitching being the deepest position of them all. 

Round 1 Pick 1: Albert Pujols 1B

What joy! I have the 1st pick of the draft. This is the worst. Albert Pujols is the obvious choice.

All around the greatest player in baseball. 

Tulowitzki just went 4th overall. Yep. Longoria goes undrafted in the 1st. These are things that I dont understand.

Round 2 Pick 20: Kevin Youkilis 1B/3B

I am hoping Kevin Youkilis will drop my way. Judging by the way these guys pick I should have no problem.... and I was right. 

Round 3 Pick 21: Jon Lester P

What? A pitcher? I like Lester alot. Great numbers and his offense should have no run support issues. 

Round 4 Pick 40: Dan Uggla 2B

Looking to go infield again. Outfield is deep with solid players. Infield is shallow. Kiddie pool shallow. Buster Posey just got drafted at pick 35. I dont understand sometimes. I get Dan Uggla. Uggla has great power from a MI spot as well as a very solid lineup surrounding him in Atlanta.

Round 5 Pick 41: Jose Bautista 3B/RF

This goes against everything I believe in. He has had one great year which would normally cause me to stay away from him. However, he is like the Jersey Shore. Out of nowhere crazy success, great highlights, with the very real chance that it is all fake. 

Round 6 Pick 60: Derek Jeter SS

Guy on the message board just asked me if I would take him to dinner. Collin Douglas should be expecting a call soon. Also, BJ Upton just got drafter. Trying not to tear up. I am more than happy with Jeter here. Look for him to have a better year than last that is for sure. 

Round 7 Pick 61: Andre Eithier OF

Round 8 Pick 80: David Price P

The Price was Right!!! His average draft position is 69th in ESPN leagues. I got him at 80. Solid strikeouts with a high "win" potential. He is also a Ray. 

Round 9 Pick 81: Delmon Young OF

Please read Jose Bautista and then apply here. 

Round 10 Pick 100: Casey McGehee 3B

He will be my UTIL as of right now but at this point in the draft, 100 RBIs, 20+ HRs and a .280 avgerage are too good to pass up. 

Round 11 Pick 101: Stephen Drew SS

Upside is solid. Downside is he is related to JD Drew. 

Round 12 Pick 120: Tim Hudson P

Message Board stalker just asked me for a "pic". I havent responded to him one time. This could be Chris Hansen from MSNBC. 

Round 13 Pick 121: Aubrey Huff 1B/OF

A funny thing happened after pick 121. I fell asleep. Something about drafting in a room that literally took 2 minutes per pick and the time was post midnight. I had a few on my player queue but this should be fun to see who the computer drafted. 

Round 14 Pick 140: John Danks P

Round 15 Pick 141: JJ Putz RP

I am not upset with Putz. I need a closer and he is in line for a lot of saves with the Diamondbacks. Danks however? I would have preferred Texas hurler Colby Lewis but whatevs. Its what I get for being the nerd who fell asleep first at the sleepover. 

Round  16 Pick 160: Jeremy Hellickson P

Round 17 Pick 161: Brandon Morrow P

This is the worst news I have heard since hearing about Steve Austin and his run in with a sting ray. 

Round 18 Pick 180: Mike Napoli C

Round 19 Pick 181: Jason Bay OF

This is the worst news I have heard since hearing I drafter Jeremy Hellickson and Brandon Morrow with consecutive picks. Auto pick is the worst invention ever. "Screw you over pick" would be the more appropriate name. (Insert "ZING" here)

Round 20 Pick 200: Ricky Romero P

Round 21 Pick 201: Alcides Escobar SS

Compared to my previous four picks, I am no completely disappointed. I would never ever draft this many pitchers when I already had Price, Lester and Hudson. 

Round 22 Pick 220: Ike Davis 1B

Round 23 Pick 221: Chris Coghlan OF

Let me offer some perspective. Davis was drafted before Mitch Moreland, James Loney, David Freese and Scott Rolen. Other than Rolen, I would have preferred the other three before Davis but that is what you get with the "Screw you over pick". 

Round 24 Pick 240: Jim Thome DH

Round 25 Pick 241: Travis Wood SP

Did you notice it too? Thome plays DH. You know what that means? He can only fill one spot on my starting lineup. Too bad for him he will not being doing so. 

Overview:

I have no relief pitching. I am going to have to make some trades or hope to grab a future closer in free agency. My corner infield spots are solid with Pujols, Youkilis, Casey McGehee. Outfield looks decent. I hate this team. I am trying to convince myself to write something else so people do not read this draft and laugh at me. Would you believe me that my wife drafted this team based on how funny she found their names to be? 

What do you think my teams strengths and weaknesses are? 

From Big East to Small East

After sending eleven teams to the Tournament, the Big East remains represented in the Sweet Sixteen, but only by two teams. Were the bids deserved? Or is this a matter of East Coast Bias, with the media vaunting the teams? Or could this only be the nature of the Tournament, where one game decides everything and going cold means going home?

2011 NCAA Brackets

Every time a sport season begins, fans claim it to be "the best time of the year". That statement never seems more appropriate than when you get your NCAA college basketball bracket in your hand and begin to choose your winners. The 2010-2011 NCAABB season has been one of parity. No elite team has emerged as a clear cut favorite to "win it all". One week the Dukies looked like the team to beat, the next week Ohio St. stepped up to the front of the pack. The point is, no one has a handle on who will win the Championship. So as tip-off takes place Thursday, sit back and enjoy the idea of finally completing the perfect bracket. At least until after the first game.

Check out our picks:
Ryan
Collin
Tyler
Jonathan

Top Ten First Basemen

1. Albert Pujols- There's no other option here. Not only is he the best 1B but he's far and away the best player in baseball. He hits way above a .300 average, 35 plus home runs, and he'll steal you a dozen or so bases. Also he's a two time gold glove winner. He's the complete package.

2. Joey Votto- He's your reigning NL MVP for a reason folks. He had a higher OPS, AVG, and SLG Pct than Pujols with just 5 fewer homeruns and the same amount of steals. He's only 27 and could be a stud in this league for years to come.

3. Miguel Cabrera- So maybe he has a tiny problem with alcohol. Nothing a little rehab won't fix. Anyways he's another 1B who's going to hit for power and average. He's almost 35 and .300 in the bank. If he stays off of grandpa's cough medicine then we could be looking at another monster year from Miggy.

4. Mark Teixeira- Another guy who has huge power at the 1B position. He's had 30 home runs and 100 rbis for seven seasons in a row. If he comes back healthy then you can expect that number to increase to 8.

5. Prince Fielder- His numbers in 2010 were down from his incredible 2009 season, but I expect that Fielder will bounce back. Sure, it may have something to do with it being a contract year because let's face it, money talks. You can look for another 40 home run season from the Prince.

6. Adrian Gonzalez- I'm starting to notice that there's a trend at 1B. Here's your 6th guy in a row who has, or has the ability, to hit for 35 homeruns and a .300 average. If you aren't familiar with baseball then you have no clue how deadly of a combination that is. The fact that Adrian moved to a much better lineup in Boston means that his production should only keep going up.

7. Ryan Howard- The former MVP used to be the clear cut number two on this list, but his production took a big drop in 2010. He still hit 31 homers last year, which isn't a bad number at all, until you consider he hit 45 the year before, and 58 back in 2006. Hopefully Howard can bounce back after last year's disappointment.

8. Justin Morneau- I'm listing Justin at 8 with lots of optimism that he recovers from his injury. Morneau missed significant amounts of time last season with a concussion and post-concussion syndrome, but if he comes back healthy, then he has the potential to be a top 5 1B in the league.

9. Kendy Morales- Another guy who is extremely productive when healthy. I expect him to stay healthy and perform at a high level all year. As long as he doesn't go to crazy after a grand slam again...

10. Billy Butler- The local kid from here in Jacksonville, FL is only 24 and has all the potential to be a great star. He has incredible plate discipline and will almost guarantee you a high batting average. He hit 45 and 51 doubles the past two years. Imagine if half of those doubles start going over the fence next season.

NFL = Chain Gang

As you may or may not have heard, according to Yahoo! sports, Vikings RB Adrian Peterson was quoted as having said playing in the NFL is like "modern day slavery". Slavery? Really? Do you agree with Petersons perspective? When you hear him say that what is your reaction?

No High School Sports?

Economic times are tough. Households have had to adjust their spending to the changes in their personal wealth. Apparently school boards are facing the same situations. Duval county, Jacksonville Florida, have been informed that there is no money in the upcoming budget for high school athletics. No sports. What are your thoughts?

Top Ten Shortstops for 2011

Advanced metrics, fantasy value and my eyes were consulted in the preparation for the list.

10. Jimmy Rollins - Phi - Age hurts; Rollins has frequented the DL the last few years, but that doesn't mask his waning skills. We knew that age would lessen the steals, but drops in average and power came unexpectedly.

9. Starlin Castro - ChC - Starlin delivered a great rookie season, something Cub fans could take home in 2010. A stellar bat and decent baserunning will keep him atop their order, but Chicago sacrifices defense with Castro; Cub fans were treated to "E6" twenty-seven times last year, and Castro wasn't called up until May 7.

8. Elvis Andrus - Tex - The kid ignited the offense at the start of last season, and then he hit a wall about two months into it, stumbling for the rest of the season. Elvis lost confidence (a phrase never before uttered) once batteries decyphered his stealing habits; he lost his bat and even the leadoff spot for a bit. His defense is terrific, but the team needs a spark atop their offense. Andrus has the skills, but he's still too young to put up a better year than those ahead of him.

7. Rafael Furcal - LAD - Without injuries last year, Furcal was on pace to shatter expectations. But the injuries and the poor play upon his return forced us to remember his age and the prior three seasons. If you told me that Furcal would play 150 games this year, he'd be #4 or higher on the list; he has power, cunning on the basepaths and a great bat.

6. Derek Jeter - NYY - The Captain and the Bombers sailed through precarious waters this off-season. The Yanks, who overpay everyone, decided not to draw the line at Jeter--a good decision. I don't like to talk good about Jeter, but the dude cares. The Cashman ordeal spiked the Captain's competitive juices (yuck), and if he comes out of the gate fast, we'll see something closer to 2009 than 2010. But he'll still be a statue on the left-side of the infield next to his best friend.

5. Stephen Drew - Ari - You're thinking, "Who?" I'll tell you: it's J.D.'s brother! He's in a great park, and his numbers show it. Drew was super-hyped coming up but underrated now. Also, Drew gives plus defense. The Diamondbacks will have him in a different spot in the lineup this year, but he's seasoned enough to handle that just fine.

4. Alexei Ramirez - ChW - When Alexei came on the scene a couple of years ago, I thought, "Who is this guy?" and "He can hold his bat in front of his body, and I can't see him." And then the toothpick had more Grand Slam's than hits that season. He was one-half of the tandem that notched the most Double-Plays (sure, Danks and Buehrle provide a ton of opportunities) last season too. He finished strong, and that will carry on into 2011.

3. Jose Reyes - NYM - Last season, Reyes handled everything his capricious manager threw at him, including hitting from the three-hole with a smile on his face and this team-oriented phrase: "I'll do whatever he thinks will make us better." Reyes' excitement illuminates the game. He's just good for baseball, but he's a Met. On his skills, the ninth-year player will never steal 78 bags again (2007), but he still has speed and power and defense. He missed most of 2009, and like a pitcher, Reyes needed a year to get re-acclimated--because the injury afflicted his top skill. Reyes will be terrific this year, even though I don't want that.

2. Hanley Ramirez - Fla - The guy has been elite for years now, but he plays in front of 500 people at home games. From a constant power progression, his numbers regressed last year offensively, and the defense just wasn't there. As a good friend pointed out to my saying his defense was metrically terrible last year, "He just doesn't care." And I agree, my friends. Hanley missed games last year for disrespecting his manager. I understand no one goes to the games down there, but Miguel Cabrera did just fine. Get drunk or get great, Hanley. Great players desire to win utterly. His OBP and AVG were the worst since his rookie season, and he grounded into the most double-plays of his career. Hanley should've been A-Rod 2.0, and he still has a chance. For all the bad one can say of Alex Rodriguez, all of us know he wants to be great--yeah, in his arrogance, but he still wants it. Hanley doesn't. He's Lebron James, and the diamond-studded pendant sporting his batting-title-winning average is the Heat's theatrical, embarrassingly hubristic "Welcome-To-Miami" coming out party last offseason.

1. Troy Tulowitzki - Col - He's younger and ranks higher defensively than #2. Sure, Tulo has missed a ton of time through his big-league years, but only one of the injuries appeared to linger (hamstring). After a broken wrist that took thirty games from him, Tulo produced numbers that warranted an MVP candidacy. He's only been unlucky in health; the law of averages will sustain him for an amazing season this year.

Reference Points:
http://www.baseballprospectus.com/statistics/sortable/index.php?cid=138277

http://www.fangraphs.com/leaders.aspx?pos=ss&stats=fld&lg=all&qual=y&type=1&season=2010&month=0&season1=2010&ind=0

Oh My Goodell

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell persists as the face of his league, as he has since being elected. In his first impression, Goodell proved to be a disciplinarian (opposing 1980's Al Davis, 1990's Jerry Jones and 2000's Cincinnati Bengals), who suspended and met with troublesome players and refused stars their assumed place above the law. He came in and made things better, and then we all yelled at him for being concerned with player safety when he cracked down on big hits this past season. Sure, he seems to be talking out of both sides of his mouth, or worse, the owners' puppet, when he proposes an 18-game schedule. But his good in the past and the ostensibly genuine cutting of his own salary pulls Goodell's image the other way. Do you think Goodell has been a good commissioner? Do David Stern or Bud Selig run things better for their respective sports?

A.L. East 2011

Here is what you can expect to read. I will tell you some key off season moves made by each team, projected starting lineup, starting rotation, and projected wins/losses. Also, I am stealing my boy Collin's format of predicting a divisional MVP and CY Young. (That guy, Collin, is a genius.) With that laid out, let us get to the preview.

Boston Red Sox (2010 89-73):

Seriously?

Key Additions: Carl Crawford (OF), Adrian Gonzalez (1B), Dan Wheeler (RP), Bobby Jenks (RP).
Key Losses: Adrian Beltre (3B), Victor Martinez (C/1B), Mike Lowell (3B)

Projected Lineup:

1. Dustin Pedroia - 2nd Base

2. Carl Crawford - Left Field

3. Adrian Gonzalez - 1st Base

4. Kevin Youkilis - 3rd Base

5. David Ortiz - DH

6. J.D. Drew - Right Field

7. Jason Varitek - Catcher

8. Marco Scutaro - Shortstop

9. Jacoby Ellsbury - Center Field

Projected Rotation:

1. Jon Lester

2. Josh Beckett

3. John Lackey

4. Clay Buchholz

5. Daisuke Matsuzaka

Analysis:

Did you read that lineup correctly? Jacoby Ellsbury will be hitting 9th with a career .344 OBP. Not too bad from the 9th spot in the order. Welcome, Adrian Gonzalez and Carl Crawford. (As a Rays fan I try to act as though Crawford signing with a division rival doesn't bother me but there is a solid chance that I change the channel every time he steps up to the plate.) A. Gone is going to wreak havoc on the American League. Quick, tell me who he was protected by in the Padres lineup? Exactly.

The "achilles heel" for the Sox will be their starting pitching. Sure, the names appease the eye. My God, it's Josh freaking Beckett. Remember that game he had against the Yanks..... when he was a Marlin! Check this out, Beckett's VORP last season was -9.7. His injuries are well documented. The Sox will go as Becket goes.

Projected Record: 90-72

Toronto Blue Jays (2010 85-77):

Key Additions: Rajai Davis (OF), Juan Rivera (OF), Jon Rauch (RP), Frank Francisco (RP)

Key Losses: Vernon Wells (OF), Scott Downs (RP), Shawn Marcum (SP)

Projected Lineup:

1. Rajai Davis - Center Field

2. Yunel Escobar - Shortstop

3. Jose Bautista - 3rd Base

4. Adam Lind - 1st Base

5. Aaron Hill - 2nd Base

6. Travis Snider - Left Field

7. Edwin Encarnacion - DH

8. Juan Rivera - Right Field

9. J.P. Arencibia - Catcher

Projected Rotation:

1. Ricky Romero

2. Brandon Morrow

3. Brett Cecil

4. Kyle Drabek

5. Jesse Litsch

Analysis:

If the AL East was the Jersey Shore cast, the Blue Jays would be Snooki. They seem to trick just enough people into thinking they are worth the ride but when you wake up beside them you realize you were either drunk or desperate for a change. No? Anyways, you probably had a hard time finding a reason to believe in the Blue Jays for 2011. Same here. Two potential bright-spots ; Ricky Romero is a dominant starting pitcher with one of the best change-ups in the game and Jose Bautista has discovered a way to trick the MLB drug tests and hits 70 HRs.

Projected Record: 76-86

Baltimore Orioles (2010 66-96)

Key Additions: Vladimir Guerrero (OF/DH), Derrick Lee (1B), Mark Reynolds (3B)

Key Losses: Ty Wiggington (3B/1B), Kevin Millwood (SP)

Projected Lineup:

1. Brian Roberts- 2nd Base

2. Nick Markakis- Right Field

3. Derrick Lee- 1st Base

4. Vladimir Guerrero- DH

5. Mark Reynolds- 3rd Base

6. Luke Scott- Left Field

7. Adam Jones- Center Field

8. Matt Weiters- Catcher

9. J.J. Hardy- Shortstop

Projected Rotation:

1. Jeremy Guthrie

2. Brian Matusz

3. Justin Duchscherer

4. Brad Bergesen

5. Jake Arrieta

Analysis:

Showalter, Showalter, and Showalter. I am referring to Buck Showalter, manager of the Orioles. When he was hired at the end of the 2010 season, the Orioles culture instantly began to change. They finished 20-13 under Showalter. Add that manager to the key free agent acquisitions and the Orioles are on their way up the ladder. Two players that will determine if the Orioles can be playoff contenders or bust; Matt Weiters and Justin Duchscherer. Remember that guy Collin I referenced earlier? He loves prospects. Weiters was no exception. Ask Collin if he feels the same way entering 2011. I guess no. The other player, Justin Duchjhgggfherer, has the "stuff" to be a top pitcher but has the "injuries" to prevent him from making any meaningful contributions. He is like Bob Sanders but hasn't seen Manning naked (We at Salute Your Sports can not confirm this to be true or not. Purely speculative. But still...)

Projected Record: 80-82

Tampa Bay Rays (2010 96-66):

Your 2011 Rays...?

Key Additions: Manny Ramirez (OF), Johnny Damon (OF), Kyle Farnsworth (RP)

Key Losses: Carl Crawford (OF), Carlos Pena (1B/DH), Matt Garza (SP), Jason Bartlett (SS), Rafael Soriano (RP), Grant Balfour (RP), Dan Wheeler (RP), Randy Choate (RP), Joaquin Benoit (RP)

Projected Lineup:

1. John Jaso- Catcher

2. Johnny Damon- Left Field

3. Ben Zobrist- 2nd Base

4. Evan Longoria- 3rd Base

5. Manny Ramirez- DH

6. Matt Joyce- Right Field

7. Dan Johnson- 1st Base

8. B.J. Upton- Center Field

9. Reid Brignac- Shortstop

Projected Rotation:

1. David Price

2. James Shields

3. Jeff Niemann

4. Wade Davis

5. Jeremy Hellickson

Analysis:

Please, tell me you laughed when you looked over their Key Losses. The Rays had more turnovers than a Favre led team. Heeyyyooo! Even after all the losses, inability to compete financially with the Sox and Yanks, and lack of fan support, the Rays have fielded a highly competitive team. Evan Longoria is the best 3rd baseman in the game. David Price is coming off a career season and has supposedly developed even more command of his off speed pitches. Here are two players to use as barometers for the Rays 2011 season; B.J.Upton is one of the most gifted athletes in the league. With the loss of Crawford, Upton will see his stolen base numbers increase IF he gets on base more often and strikes out less. Also, he signed a pair of cleats for me so you know he is legit. The other player is Jake McGee. He is a RP that is looking to fill in the closer role for the Rays left by Soriano. To McGee I say, "Good luck".

Projected Record: 89-73

New York Yankees (2010 95-67)

Key Additions: Russell Martin (C), Rafael Soriano (RP), Andruw Jones (OF), Freddy Garcia (SP), Bartolo Colon (SP), Mark Prior (SP)

Key Losses: Kerry Wood (RP), Javier Vazquez (SP), Lance Berkman (1B)

Projected Lineup:

1. Derek Jeter- Shortstop

2. Curtis Granderson- Center Field

3. Mark Teixeira- 1st Base

4. Alex Rodriguez- 3rd Base

5. Robinson Cano- 2nd Base

6. Nick Swisher- Right Field

7. Jorge Posada- DH

8. Russell Martin- Catcher

9. Brett Gardner- Left Fielder

Projected Rotation:

1. CC Sabathia

2. Phil Hughes

3. A.J. Burnett

4. Ivan Nova

5. Sergio Mitre

Analysis:

Question: Was Bartolo signed to be the clubhouse manager? There is no chance he plays right? Mark Prior is alive? The Yankees free agent signings look more like the MLB retiree list. Not to mention they botched the whole resigning of Jeter. I was secretly dreaming for Jeter to just leave and sign with the Rays but dreams are called dreams for a reason. Their lineup has the best hitter in the division. That guy is Robby Cano don't ya' know. His swing is the prettiest in the game. He plays a position that keeps his legs rested for offense. Look for his numbers to increase even more from last season. Here is my issue with the Yanks, they have horrible starting pitching. Horrendous. CC is going to be CC. It is the other four that I have issues with. It is why I find the Yankees unable to make the playoffs in 2011.

Projected Record: 85-77

AL East MVP:

1. Robinson Cano

2. Evan Longoria

3. Adrian Gonzalez

AL East Cy Young:

1. Jon Lester

2. David Price

3. Ricky Romero

AL East Standings:

1. Boston Red Sox

2. Tampa Bay Rays (WC)

3. New York Yankees

4. Baltimore Orioles

5. Toronto Blue Jays

Top Ten Center Fielders

Willie Mays, Ken Griffey Jr., Jim Edmonds... are just some of the names surrounding the Center Field position from the past. 2011 does not offer the same. In a game that for years featured men whose arms were bigger than their thighs and could hit a ball farther than any outfielder could dare track down, the position of center field suffered more than any. Based on athleticism, deer like quickness, an innate ability to track down line drives to both sides, a rocket laser arm and raw speed, Center Fielders are a special breed. Oh yeah, they need to be able to hit the ball too. (I know what you're saying. "Ryan, isn't your favorite player BJ Upton? Does he hit?" to which I would respond, "Hey man, he signed a pair of cleats for me so yeah.") With all that said let's take a look at the top ten Center Fielders in baseball heading into the 2011 season.

1. Andrew McCutchen- Pittsburgh Pirates- How is this possible? Arguably the worst run sports organization and they stumble onto this guy. An OBP of .365, a SLG of .459 and 40 steals potential, make McCutchen stand out on what is a horrible team. Oh and he is 24. Can we say "trade deadline"?

2. Shane Victorino- Philadelphia Phillies- "The Flyin' Hawaiian", or as I like to call him, "Shane Victorino", is as consistent as any center fielder in the game. He brings a UZR (defensive rating system) of 11.4 to the park every day as well as a .342 OBP. Why is that important? He plays in a offensive friendly park so his ability to cover the ground keeps runs from scoring and he gets on base in front of Jimmy Rollins, Chase Utley, and "Mr. Subway" Ryan Howard.

3. Colby Rasmus- St. Louis Cardinals- Rasmus appears to be a corner outfielder in the making. Average defense (-6.5 UZR) with good power and run production. The biggest question with Rasmus is will he stay healthy as well as why does LaRussa not like him?

4. Matt Kemp- L.A. Dodgers- It seems like just last year Kemp was considered a top two outfielder. Not center fielder but outfielder. He has all the talent to be a 40/40 guy but instead settles for 20/20 and poor plate discipline. Speaking of poor plate discipline, is he still with Rhianna?

5. Jacoby Ellsbury- Boston Red Sox- 2010 was a thorn in the side for Ellsbury. He played 18 games due to a rib injury. 2011 will remind us of why Ellsbury is considered one of the best base thieves as well as defenders. Plus, he gets to set the table for the best lineup in baseball ("in baseball" was needed because the best lineup award goes to NBC on Thursday nights. Community, Parks and Rec., The Office, 30 Rock, and Outsourced. OK, even the Big Red Machine had a pitcher hitting at the end.) He could hit blindfolded and find a way to score 90 runs.

6. Alex Rios- Chicago White Sox- Are you happy Mr. President? Maybe now you will stop testing me about how good he is. Rios has all the skills. My reservation is that I am just not sure he replicates 2010 (21 HRs, 88RBIs, 34 SB). Actually, I know he wont. Boom. Prediction made,

7. Curtis Granderson- New York Yankees- I remember when my dad and I watched him play and father said to me, "This guy is worth at least a hundred grand er so son." I'm drunk.

8. BJ Upton- Tampa Bay Rays- See the end of #7. Seriously though, he signed some cleats for me. Also, he is the most frustrating player to watch. He can run, throw and catch. If he could stop striking out, get on base, and hit, I believe he would be better. Boom. Prediction made.

9. Michael Bourn- Houston Astros- No power at all (career .346 SLG), no run production (38 RBIs in 2010), but he plays defense like old school Willie Mays. His lineup is almost as bad as McCutchen's.

10. Chris Young- Arizona Diamondbacks- Please go read BJ Upton. Young is so similar it is scary. Very scary. Extremely scary. You understand.

So there are my top ten Center Fielders heading into 2011. I would like to apologize to all Juan Pierre lovers but whenever you can be made fun of by Steve Urkel, you have no place in a legitimate top ten list.

NL East Division Preview

Atlanta Braves- They gave the Phillies a run for their money last year, but just couldn't quite win the division. I don't see that changing this year. I do however think they have another legitimate chance at winning the wild card race. The Braves keep most of the same guys in the lineup, plus a big addition of Dan Uggla for some much needed power in the middle of the lineup. The keys to a good season for them have to include a monster sophomore year from Jason Heyward, a bounce back year from the former All-Star Nate McLouth, and a healthy year from the face of their franchise Chipper Jones. Rotation wise, they still are going to throw their two veterans at the beginning in Lowe and Hudson, while rounding out with Jurrjens, Hanson, and the rookie Mike Minor. Their rotation could be excellent, and will need to be to compete with the Phillies this year.

Florida Marlins- New manager means new start, are what the Marlins are hoping for, but I'm not sure how much things are going to change in Miami this year. The problem for the Marlins is that they are banking on too much young talent this year. Mike Stanton, Logan Morrison, and Chris Coghlan are starting in the outfield this year, and their ages respectively are 21,23,25. This could be a great thing for the future, but may prove to hurt them this year. Another young player is starting SS Hanley Ramirez, but he's a stud so they don't have to worry about any lack of production from him. The real key for the Marlins this year is their rotation. Josh Johnson had an excellent year last year, but has lots of injury concerns around him this year. Ricky Nolasco, Chris Volstad, and the newly acquired Javier Vasquez will all have to step up their games this year if the Marlins want to be competitive in the East.

New York Mets- This is our third team so far, and our third team with a new manager. I'm starting to notice a trend here. Anyways, the Mets are also relying on some young talent in their lineup this year with 1B Ike Davis, 2B Daniel Murphy, and the rookie catcher Jim Thole all projected to start this year. David Wright is coming off of another monster season, and is hoping to duplicate some of those numbers. A big key for the Mets is health. They desperately need Jose Reyes and Carlos Beltran to stay healthy and stay productive. Pitching-wise they are going to have to rely on a bunch of guys that no one has ever heard of, until/if Johan Santana recovers from his September surgery.

Philadelphia Phillies- The reigning NL East champs are looking to repeat, and frankly, I don't see how they don't. The lineup stays basically the same with Utley, Howard, Victorino, and Rollins being the major bats. Their hoping that rookie Dominic Brown will recover from his recent hand injury and will also be a contributor in that lineup. But enough about the bats, let's get to what everyone is talking about when they talk about the Phillies, the starting rotation. Roy Halladay and Cliff Lee are now in the same rotation. Let's just take that information in for a second… ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!? Also there are some guys named Cole Hamels and Roy Oswalt throwing up there in Philly. As a lifelong Braves fan, I had the privilege of growing up watching Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine, and Avery, but this could be the best starting rotation that any of us will ever witness.

Washington Nationals- Stephen Strasburg is injured…

That's not a sufficient enough preview?? Oh, well… um…

No I'm kidding. The Nationals went all in on the Jayson Werth sweepstakes this offseason and it paid off as they ended up signing him. Combine him with Ryan Zimmerman and that's a pretty deadly 3-4 spot combo. Drew Storen could end up being one of the top closers in the game for years to come, but other than that there's not a whole lot to look at pitching wise, unless Jordan Zimmerman bounces back from his injury.

Projected Standings

1. Phillies

2. Braves

3. Marlins

4. Mets

5. Nationals

NL East Awards

MVP- Hanley Ramirez

Cy Young- Cliff Lee

Rookie of the Year-Dominic Brown

CBA TBA?

Sure, the extension has been giving but do you really think an agreement is reached this week? Who, owners or players, do you side with on this issue?

The NCAA's Opposing Postseasons

NCAA Football uses "Every Game Counts" as their motto; and it's true unless you're talking about Boise State or TCU,for whom no game counts. But NCAA Basketball produces a season in which most games don't impact anything. Is it worth a hefty dose of unwatchable basketball to have the compelling Conference Tournaments and NCAA Tournament? Or does NCAAF have a better overall construction? Is March Madness the most exciting annual sporting event?

Chat with David Price

Coming off the best season in Tampa Bay Rays history, David Price heads into 2011 not looking back but looking forward. David was nice enough to take some time and share with us his thoughts on playing with Manny, pitching to Pujols, and living life in general.


SYS: You're on a desert island and can have three items. What are they and why?
DP: Astro...cause I love him! Cell phone so I can talk to my family and friends and tweet my fans back! Then probably my xbox....but I guess I’ll have to steal a t.v. since I didn’t bring one with me. haha

SYS: You're well documented as saying the Braves were your favorite team growing up, who then was your least favorite?
DP: Anyone who was beating the Braves...haha I liked them all just the Braves the most.

SYS:After a game you can grab a drink with 3 guys from the league. Who are they?
DP: Matt Garza, haha then whoever else...Garza is enough entertainment.

SYS: You recently said on Twitter (@davidprice14) that you learned a "knucklesplitchange", is this your version of the "Gyro" ball and do you throw it left or right handed?
DP: haha I was just messin around on twitter....not a real pitch.

SYS: You are very active on Twitter. What is the funniest comment a person as made to you on Twitter?
DP: haha not really sure....I’ve seen some pretty funny pictures.

SYS: Albert Pujols is up with men on 2nd and 3rd leaving 1st base open and two outs. What does David Price do?
DP: Walk him like any sane pitcher would.

SYS: What was the main difference for you between '09 and '10?
DP: Confidence.

SYS: A lot of changes for the Rays roster headed into spring training this season, ( loss of Crawford, Soriano, Bartlett, Pena, Beñot, Garza). How did you react to all the moves?
DP: Its part of the business, nothing I can do but continue on with what I’m doing.

SYS: Manny Ramirez and Johnny Damon are now teammates of yours, what was your first thought when you heard this?
DP: Sickwitit (sick with it)

SYS: Who has the best sense of humor on the roster?
DP: Evan Longoria.

SYS: Best practical joke played since you've been on the Rays?
DP: Troy Percival plastered his face on my car in 2008 spring training.

SYS: How does Joe Maddons managerial style impact you and your way of doing things, if at all?
DP: It doesn’t impact me at all.

SYS: Toughest hitter you ever faced?
DP: Joe Mauer (Catcher for Minnesota Twins)

SYS: What was the greatest sports moment of your life? Professional or not.
DP: Pitching in the 2008 world series!

SYS: Do you feel more responsibility/pressure to lead the team entering your third full season?
DP: No everything still feels pretty much the same.

SYS: What are your expectations for the 2011 Rays?
DP:Win the World Series!!

QUICK FIRE:
SYS:Kobe Bryant or LeBron James?
DP: Lebron

SYS: Hank Aaron or Barry Bonds?
DP: Hank

SYS: Call of Duty or Madden?
DP: COD (Call of Duty)

SYS: Pepsi or Coke?
DP: Coke

SYS: Glass half empty or half full?
DP: Half full

We want to thank David Price for taking the time to answer a few questions. Price and the Rays look to repeat as AL East Champions in 2011.

In the 11th Hour

The world is less than 48 hours away from understanding what an NFL Lockout will look like. At Midnight on March 4th, the owners will lockout the current players and prospective players. We have been force fed information on how it will impact the players and owners but how will an NFL lockout impact you? Some fans have been quoted as saying they will not follow the sport if they spend one day under a lockout. Others could care less as long as football eventually returns. Where do you fall on the subject?

Makeshift Community

The most important factor in fan-hood is the emotional connection that captures us: a generational love affair with a team, or an obsession since one's youth; a heart-rending documentary or piece on an athlete's storied life; perhaps nothing works better for us than a superstar who seems similar to us, just a good, spirited guy or working man (old-Favre or Aaron Rodgers) glinting in the tangle of "overpaid" and apparently unrelatable athletes.
Whatever makes us, we watch because we care. And we argue because we care. Sports generates an emotional fervor within us, and this kindled care propels us into a community, one not unlike the "religious" one. Not to diminish anyone's beliefs, but where else do you find an army of zealots, but in sports and religious debates (and every two or four years in the briefly romantic political chatter)? But unlike the informing adage (about not talking religion or politics), sports lends itself to argument and discussion because it isn't as serious, we think--which is arbitrary, because the things that take our time become important, become serious.
And the serious thing about sports is this community it incites and services and ultimately sustains. Whether you are invested in the record numbers and history from baseball, in the excitement and culture of superstars from basketball or in Tom Brady's hair, you care. And that's a good thing.

The Team to Beat...

'Melo to the Knicks, D. Williams to the Nets, Hinrich to the Hawks, K. Perkins to the Thunder, the Celtics get Jeff Green; these are some of the trades made prior to the NBA deadline. The NBA is unlike any other league because it completely revolves around its' individual stars. One key addition can turn an entire franchise into a contender while one major subtraction can handicap an organization (insert Cavalier joke here). So after all the dust has settled, what teams do you consider to be the favorites to make the Finals this season?

What Would Robin Hood Do?

The rich are getting richer, and the poor are getting Raymond Felton. To imitate America's current economic condition, the gap between good teams and bad teams is growing. We have our contenders, and we've had them since day one of the season. Which of the five or so teams will win the NBA Championship? There is no chance for the other teams. Is it good for the league that its superstars are assembling themselves together?

Top 25 Under 25

We all know that the NBA still belongs to the likes of Kobe and LeBron, but there is a flood of young talent coming up so I looked at what the NBA is going to look like in the future. This is the players that I'd want for the next 10 years in this league. This is based on previous accomplishments, future potential, and a little personal preference thrown in as well.

Honorable Mention: Andrea Bargnani, Rodney Stuckey, JaVale McGee, Ty Lawson, DeJuan Blair, Michael Beasley, Tyrus Thomas

25. Brandon Jennings

24. Brook Lopez

Both will probably be higher in most people's opinions, but Lopez is 7 feet tall and just doesn't rebound while Jennings shoots an awful percentage from the field. They're also below average defenders.

23. Paul Milsap-

22. Serge Ibaka

These two will be top 10 power forwards for years to come. Milsap has the ability to put up 20 points a night, while Ibaka is more of a rebounding and shot blocking presence in the post.

21. DeMarcus Cousins- So maybe he's insane. Wasn't Dennis Rodman too?

20. Tyreke Evans- Tyreke's numbers are down from his rookie campaign, but I'm not too worried considering he's only 21 years old

19. Andrew Bynum- By now he should probably be in the top 5 of this list but it just hasn't happened yet. I still believe though.

18. Eric Gordon- The urban legend says that he played MJ's son in Space Jam. Apparently he learned how to shoot while on set. The kid can score.

17. Josh Smith-Undersized for a Power Forward, but doesn't have quite the skill set to be a Small Forward. Still a physical freak who can block some shots.

16. Luol Deng- An all around good player who will never be a great player. Still I'd love to have him on my team.

15. Rudy Gay- The rich man's Luol Deng.

14. John Wall- Could be the next great floor general.

13. Al Horford

12. Joakim Noah

These two are gonna be dominant Centers in this league for the next decade. They're both well rounded offensively and defensively. Horford is more of a scorer, while Noah is a top rebounder in the NBA

11. Monta Ellis

10. Stephen Curry

9. Rajon Rondo

All three are excellent guards but lack something. Curry is a well rounded offensive player but lacks the proper on-ball defensive skills. Ellis is an incredible scorer but is lackluster on defense. Rondo is an assist machine and an excellent defender, but his shot is less than impressive.

8. LaMarcus Aldridge- He has improved in every category this season. He already was a good player and has transformed into a great one.

7. Blake Griffin-I don't think I really have to say a lot here. Everyone knows about BG.

6. Russell Westbrook- He rebounds well, plays solid defense, and dishes out 9 assists a game. Also, the 22 a night isn't shabby. He's only getting better.

5. Kevin Love- When you're 22 and getting compared to Moses Malone you must be doing something right.

4. Derrick Rose

3. Chris Paul

Rose is an incredible scorer who contributes to his team in every other possible way as well. Paul is an outstanding player who could shine even more on any other team. I can't wait to see him in 2011-12 on another team.

2. Kevin Durant- He's only 22 and is most likely going to grab his second consecutive scoring title. Did I mention he's only 22?? He's also an above average rebounder for a small forward.

1. Dwight Howard- An absolute physical freak at the Center position. Howard could go down as a top 5 or 6 Center in NBA history.

In the Knick of Time

The Knicks finally put an end to all the Carmelo Athony trade talks. The Knicks decided not to wait until free agency and take the chance of losing Anthony. So are the Knicks a contender now? If not, how long until they become one? Should they have parted with so much to get Anthony?

Maximum Contraction

A list of ten teams that shouldn't be, from the three major sports.

10. & 9. NFL – Seattle Seahawks & Arizona Cardinals – The NFL has a perfect product, but they must be included in the list, if only to hope for a talent overflow somewhere in the league. (If I didn't enjoy the Jaguars, I'd have them and Houston here. The two teams picked have been to Championships in the last 6 years.) At least two teams really stink every year, but the Bills and Lions and Bucs and Browns (no, not them) all have great histories. Take Carolina, if you want, but two teams must go.

8. NBA – Minnesota Timberwolves – Didn't they draft two point guards in the top six overall in 2009? No one's seen either of them since (Sure, Jonny Flynn plays almost 20 MPG, but I don't watch Minny, and neither do you). They didn't draft their two best players: Kevin Love and Darmichael Beaslicic. And Nick Calathes went there and died along with the real Jonny Flynn and Rubio's rights.

7. MLB – Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim – This is a good team with a great manager (like that matters in baseball). But the name makes me want to eat Bartolo Colon's hair. No one does this. They are the Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie of the MLB. Or the nerd wearing a Hollister T-shirt, when his glasses and pocket protector scream Bugle Boy. Anaheim, stop using Los Angeles' name to look cool.

6. MLB – Pittsburgh Pirates – History doesn't matter; look forward. The biggest splash they've made in the last three years is dumping Jason Bay. And we all thought he was good. I'm sorry, Andrew McCutchen. We know your secret.

5. NBA – Charlotte Bobcats – Supposedly, this is a real NBA franchise (No confirmation, as Collin is my source). If your most attractive personality is a non-player, you need contraction, even more-so if he's your owner. I'll let you keep your team when you re-replace your mascot: back to the Hornets now, jerks.

4. NBA – Toronto Raptors – Canada has a basketball team—not football or baseball, basketball. I'm no sociologist, but something seems off. Yeah, Montreal wasn't right for baseball, but Toronto would be. With all of the traveling-between-countries-with-customs woes, I'd rather the Buffalo Bills move to Toronto, then the players would only have to travel over a border 10-12 times a season (or 24, depending on the NFL's new CBA) instead of the 41 (and only 41, because Toronto doesn't make the Playoffs—don't Google, just trust......Darn you). Note: the previous portion of this paragraph was written in a Who Jays Haze. Yeah, there sure are four teams in the AL East. You're cute. What? Five? Now you're just talking crazy.

3. MLB – Florida Marlins – Yeah, they have two World Series wins in their short tenure. But their dumping of players upsets me, wins Boston a ring and puts Miggy the Alcoholic in a bad situation. You can't tell me that he would have been arrested or even drunk if he was in South Beach. Also, Hanley Ramirez told me he's tired of playing in front of twenty-nine people every night. If a city cannot fill seats for a team, they don't deserve it (Oh God, what am I saying? Mr. Weaver, I didn't mean it.)

2. NBA – New Orleans Hornets – There are three simple reasons to get rid of you, NO: it would release CP3 to run freely on a good team with management that appreciates him (or just management, which bring me to reason two) ; the NBA owns you; somehow, you're in the Western Conference. The last one discredits all names in the NBA, with New Orleans being farther East than like fourteen Eastern teams (but I'm no geographer either) and...You aren't the real Hornets.

1. NFL – Oakland Raiders – Al Davis is Jerry Jones without charisma (or the need to be liked and known, whichever Jones has). If you are affluent enough to own a professional sports team, you are not qualified intellectually to manage one. So Al, stop.

Something Has To Fill Our Time

Do you sense that the NBA is being pushed harder now than any other time in the last ten years? We hear about the deep pool of talent (though the last two drafts were pretty weak: maybe 4 players have a shot at being a superstar). And we have the classic powerhouse teams (but neither LA or Boston has changed much through the last four seasons). Is fear of an absent NFL season driving the media charge?

Fat Lady Sit Down

"Carmelo Anthony will end up in...", "Blake Griffin in the dunk contest", and more Blake Griffin were the headlines heading into All-Star weekend. Youth was served in a huge way by players like Derrick Rose and Russell Westbrook. Players showcased in the Skills Competition, Dunk Contest, and the All-Star game itself included stars like Blake Griffin, Rajon Rondo, Blake Griffin, LeBron James, Blake Griffin, Kevin Durant and even Blake Griffin. Yet, after all was said and done, one man reminded us of who is STILL the best in the league. Kobe Bryant.
37 points, 14 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals. That was Bryant's stat line at the end of the game. He was awarded with his 4th MVP of an All-Star game. Bryant sent a reminder to the rest of the league that he is still the best player in the league. No play summed up Bryant's statement greater than his dunk on LeBron James. It made you ask yourself if Kobe really ages. Speaking of if someone ever ages, Halle Berry, is she still in her twenties?
Veterans like Kevin Garnett, Tim Duncan, and Paul Pierce barely combined for 30 minutes in the game while Kobe played 29. Those same veterans combined for a total of 12 points on 5-13 shooting. Kobe shot 14-26 from the field. I understand the world is ready for Kobe to move off into the distance but the man refuses. In a game catered to the high energy of young players, Kobe shone the brightest.
Sure, the Lakers are on a three game losing streak and one of those was to the Cleveland Cavaliers (yes, those Cleveland Cavaliers). Yes, the Lakers have looked too old at times to even make a jog in the playoffs much less a run. Sure the league is better served by the explosive dunks of Blake Griffin, "Dream Team" in the Miami Heat, and a team in New York that is not a complete eye sore but in our haste to look for the next great "thing" we may have neglected the greatest thing since "His Airness". So Fat Lady please sit back down. Mr. Bryant still has some games to play.

Greatest Dunk...

The 2011 NBA dunk contest is upon us. Blake Griffin, unless he does a layup drill, will be the winner. That had us thinking, what is the greatest dunk you have ever seen?

MJ really the greatest?

Michael Jordan turned 48 today. We want to know is he really the greatest NBA player of all-time? What about greatest athletes in general? Has any other icon become as big of a global icon?

Look Out the Lockout

You've heard, "Any press is good press." But are labor talks between the NFL and its union surrounding a CBA--now that it has become the story from the offseason--inflicting a black-eye on the image of Goodell's good league?

NBA Finals Rankings

With the All-Star break coming up this weekend, we thought we'd take a look at all the teams in the NBA in some sort of season-so-far column or maybe a look ahead. After some thinking, I decided to go with a power rankings, but with a twist. These aren't just ranking the 32 teams, but ranking them in the order of who has the best chance of holding up the trophy come the end of the season.

1. San Antonio Spurs- The Spurs gaudy 45-9 record is the complete opposite of their "boring" play. Come playoff time the experience this team has is going to best friend. They just hope the age of their stars doesn't start to become a problem when game 100 rolls around.

2. Boston Celtics- The Celts are in the same boat as the Spurs. They have lots of experience, but their stars are getting up there in age as well. Their bench is pretty deep but they are also being hit by the injury bug, which could turn out to be a big problem.

3. Los Angeles Lakers- Things are somewhat ugly in LA right now, but I don't think anyone is worried about the two-time defending champs. There's definitely still a strong possibility of a three-peat.

4. Chicago Bulls- The Bulls have arguably the NBA MVP right now in Derrick Rose and lead the league in team defense. Also, they're 36-16 without Boozer and Noah being on the court at the same time. Throw in a nice bench, and this could be a sleeper pick to make the finals.

5. Miami Heat- They definitely have the star power to make the finals, but what worries me is their 0-5 record this season to the teams listed above. Though I still have them ranked high because you can't ever count out a team that has Wade and LeBron

6. Dallas Mavericks- This team is actually pretty deep as well. I think they live and die by Dirk a little bit to much, but if players like Butler can step up, and they can keep getting excellent play from Barea and Chandler, then they definitely have a good shot at making a run.

7. Orlando Magic- The 8 game losing streak to teams with a winning record was ugly, but the stomping of the Lakers Sunday was impressive. Inconsistency is their downfall, but this team does have the talent to take them there.

8. Oklahoma City Thunder- They're an extremely young team which is great for the future, but could be their downfall in this year's playoffs. Durant and Westbrook are gonna be stars in this league for years, but I don't know how far they can carry the rest of the team this year. Especially without a legitimate big man.

9. Atlanta Hawks- I'm not sure if Atlanta is ever gonna make the jump from 4-5 seed to legitimate Finals contender. Joe Johnson is playing outstanding this year though, as well as Al Horford. If they can consistently get big games out of Jamal Crawford and Josh Smith, then this might be the year that they start scaring people.

10. New Orleans Hornets- Okafor has been a nice addition for the Hornets this year, and could help take some of the pressure off of Chris Paul in the playoffs.

11. Memphis Grizzlies- This team reminds me a lot of the Thunder with all the young talent that they have. Rudy Gay is a stud, and Zach Randolph is playing like a man possessed. I just wonder if they're going to get absolutely anything positive out of OJ Mayo this year.

12. Portland Traiblazers- LaMarcus Aldridge is tearing it up this season. His numbers are ridiculous. I'd have this team a little higher, but Brandon Roy scares me if he's not completely heathly. They need him to come back strong.

13. Denver Nuggets- This ranking is only this high if they keep Carmelo. I like the rest of the Nuggets alright, but they will need 'Melo if they want to make a push for the finals.

14. Philadelphia 76ers- It's definitely not been pretty all season, but the 76ers have seemed to fare pretty well against the better teams in the league. They could put together a little run come playoff time.

15. New York Knicks- If they pull off the Carmelo deal then I'd rank them a few spots higher, but until then they stay here in the middle of the pack. Felton and Landry Fields have been playing well, and Amare has been quite the addition but without 'Melo they don't have much of a chance.

16. Indiana Pacers- The Pacers aren't very good, but the Eastern Conference is weak and so the Pacers would make the playoffs as it stands now. I give them slim to no chance on winning the finals.

17-21. Still a shot at the playoffs, but at this point wouldn't make it: Charlotte, Milwaukee, Utah, Phoenix, Houston.

22-25. Barely alive: Detroit, New Jersey, Golden State, LA Clippers.

26-31. No chance: Washington, Toronto, Sacramento, Minnesota

32. Cleveland Cavaliers- They had to be grouped by themselves considering how awful they are.

A Chat with George Wrighster:

In 2003, the Jacksonville Jaguars selected a Tight End from The University of Oregon by the name of George Wrighster in the fourth round. In just two years at Oregon, Wrighster had 8 total touchdowns as well as 52 receptions and 691 yards. George played for six seasons with the Jaguars ('03-'08) and totaled 9 Tds, 94 receptions and 850 yards. Recently, Wrighster won the UFL championship with the Las Vegas Locomotives while grabbing 18 receptions.

George Wrighster was willing to take the time to answer questions for us at Salute Your Sports about life, the draft process, and the potential NFL lockout. Here is the interview:


SYP: Pepsi or Coke?

GW: Neither. Sprite. I rarely drink soda anyway.

SYP: Oregon Championship or UFL Championship?

GW: Oregon. I love the Ducks

SYP:Madden or Call of Duty?

GW:Madden

SYP:Tom Brady or Peyton Manning?

GW:Peyton every time

SYP:Kobe or LeBron?

GW:Lol. Kobe #Lakers

SYP: Favorite stadium to play in the NFL?

GW: Baltimore Coliseum

SYP: Best player you ever played with?

GW: Fred Taylor

SYP: Funniest player you ever played with?

GW: Adrian Awasom

SYP: Who was the hardest hitting defender you ever took a shot from?

GW: Donovan Darius in practice.

SYP: You are very active on Twitter (@georgewrighster), what is the funniest thing someone has ever said to you on Twitter?

GW: It's funny when people have such strong opinions and get mad about things I could care less about.

SYP: If you could have one person follow you on Twitter who would it be and why?

GW: Obama- that means I'm making moves for real!

SYP: You are on a desert island and can have three items with you? What are they and why?

GW: I only need 1. iPhone. I have everything I need. All the tools I need to get off and books to read/music to listen to to keep me busy till help arrives or I build a raft off. Lol.

SYP: After a game you can go get a drink with three players, who are they and why?

GW: Adrian Awasom, Samie Parker, and Rashad Bauman

SYP: The draft is the next big item in the NFL "off" season, what was your experience like leading up to draft day?

GW: If was hectic. Flying to teams and working out. U just want to put yourself in the best possible situation to succeed.

SYP: You were drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2003 in the 4th round out of Oregon, what was the feeling like when you got the call?

GW: Instant chip on my shoulder. I felt like I should have been drafted higher.

SYP: You recently won the championship in the UFL with the Las Vegas Locomotives, how was that experience for you?

GW: It was so much fun. The business of football is still there but not as prevalent so it's was a lot of fun. Winning is always great!

SYP: You've said on Twitter that you hope to get back in the NFL, what does that process look like for you?

GW: Trying to get workouts lined up. As soon as I get on a team I will prove I'm still one of the best TEs around.

SYP: When was the moment in your career that you realized you could not only compete but succeed in the NFL?

GW: In training camp my rookie year. I was making some plays and a light when on and I said, "Hey I can do this. "

SYP: What was it like to score your first TD in the NFL?

GW: Bittersweet. We were getting blown out by the Buffalo Bills the 1st or 2nd game of my rookie year.

SYP: Is there a play that you made that stands out in your mind?

GW: Yes. 2. A TD against the Bengals on Monday night and the game winning TD against the Browns in the snow.

SYP: What is your perspective on the potential lockout looming over the NFL and how does it, if at all, impact your return to the league?

GW: It affects your health care for your children and yourself until the deal is done. Everyone knows a deal will get done eventually it's just a matter of when. It does affect my return to the league because free agency will be non existent until CBA is done.

Hopefully, the NFL will be able to reach an agreement sooner rather than later so athletes like George Wrighster will have the opportunity to continue living out their dreams. Again, we would like to thank George Wrighster for taking the time to share with us his perspective on issues and his life in general.

"With the 1st Pick..."

NBA All Star weekend will start this Saturday with all the skills challenges including the highly acclaimed "Slam Dunk Contest". Sunday will showcase the top players in the league from both conferences playing against each other. Let's adopt the NHL's policy of handling their All Star teams ( they do a fantasy draft with all the players selected to the All Star team. Eliminating conferences and allowing coaches to pick the teams) and you are the coach of the NBA All Star team, who is your first pick and why?

2011 QB Rankings?

Rankings are one of the best things about sports. There is nothing better than ranking athletes because everyone sees it differently. Sometimes we have "Shallow Hal" eyes and sometimes we just see the facts. Either way let's look at NFL QBs heading into the 2011 offseason.

The NFL is a quarterback driven league. Unfortunately, not all offensive systems are the same so it makes it difficult to determine the top quarterbacks in the league. Do we base it strictly off numbers? Wins? Clutch plays? Potential?

My rankings are based on the premise that all things are created equal. This means that coaching staffs, offensive weapons, and defenses are equal across the board. [I.e. Is it really fair to compare Drew Brees (41 passing attempts per game) to David Garrard (26 att/game, which was an NFL low) based strictly on numbers?] Some QBs in the rankings were backups in 2010 but I expect them to be starters in 2011. Obviously, rookies from the 2011 draft are not included. Also, only 32 QBs are ranked (Sorry Alex Smith). So with all things considered, here are the rankings:


1. Tom Brady- 36 TDs and 4 INTs. This man succeeds regardless of who he throws to.

2. Peyton Manning- Arguably the greatest regular season QB of all time but it's his post season accolades or lack there of that hurt.

3. Phillip Rivers- I know he has never one a SB. However, he finished 2010 with 4710 yards, 30 TDs and a 101.8 rating. Who did he throw to again? Exactly.

4. Aaron Rodgers- Fresh off the best post season we have ever seen played by a QB, yes the best, Rodgers only knock for me is that compared to Rivers he has better weapons at his disposal and never ever hands the ball off. Lower yards per attempt but he could be higher in most lists.

5. Ben Roethlisburger- Morals aside, this man wins. I am not even sure if this is truly accurate but he seems to make the most crucial plays more than any other QB. This SB aside, he is the one QB I would not want against me.

6. Drew Brees- He looks good throwing but his offense is strictly a passing offense and I'm not sure he has the same success in a balanced offense.

7. Josh Freeman- Love everything about this guy. he made the Bucs relevant this year and has them on a course to greatness. Has that it factor that everyone looks for.

8. Mike Vick- When healthy he is a weapon all to himself. He showed this year that he has matured as a QB and leader.

9. Matt Ryan- Matty Ice is clutch. He is one of those guys that seems to make the big play when it is most needed. By the way, is the NFC South really this loaded with QB talent? It is.

10. Joe Flacco- The Ravens play calling is horrible. Flacco is often times placed in situations where odds are against him. Plus, if TJ Houshmanzadeh catches that long 4th down reception against the Steelers, Flacco might have been playing last Sunday.

11. Sam Bradford- This guy impressed me because he took every snap as the STL QB last season and performed extremely well. He won at home and will learn how to win the tough game on the road.

12. Tony Romo- He's too high. Probably five spots too high but he has above average numbers and wins in the regular season.

13. Matt Schaub- Great numbers and great arm. Sometimes he seems to lack the ability to lead a team to victory.

14. Kyle Orton- Why is he getting moved so much? He won in Chicago but they chose Cutler. Now the Broncos are forced to try Tebow and part ways with Orton. If my team were to get Orton I would-be more than pleased. ( see #25)

15. Ryan Fitzpatrick- I'm a fan. He had no running game. No WRs until he made S. Johnson a name. No Defense yet he finished with 23 TDs.

16. Matt Stafford- Please stay healthy. My God you have Calvin Johnson to throw to!

17. Jay Cutler- hahahahahahahahahahahahahaha

18. Kevin Kolb- He will be a starter next year. Crazy how one year can make us forget that he was projected borderline top 10 QB heading into last year. I will take him. ( see #25)

19. Matt Cassel- It's not that he has had great numbers but I blame the offense he plays in more than his actual ability.

20. Tim Tebow- He played better than I expected in his four games last year. He has all the intangibles but is inconsistent in passing plus he can not run all the time with his bruising style.

21. Carson Palmer- Where has this guy gone?

22. Eli Manning- see #21.

23. Donovan McNabb- He is getting old. But for me it's the drama that follows this guy. Every season he is involved in some story. It has to be bad for a locker room.

24. Chad Henne- He makes some great throws and then some horrible throws. He's young. In the right situation this guy could lead a team deep in the playoffs. Also, the Wildcat kills a QBs momentum.

25. David Garrard- He can not win a game by himself. He is as inconsistent as they come. I hate placing him this low and understand that personal heartbreak has influenced my decision. "The chip has been compromised."

26. Mark Sanchez- Who does he scare? He has had one of the best defenses, very good WRS and RBS and his numbers are still pedestrian.

27. Matt Hasselbeck- Often times hurt. Don't see much from him next season.

28. Colt McCoy- He will never be an elite passer. If he is going to succeed he will have to take the Mold of Big Ben. make big plays when they need to be made. I saw glimpses of that last year.

29. Vince Young- I actually would rank Jim higher if A.) he had a team and B.) he had only one personality.

30. Jason Campbell- mediocre on a good day

31. Kerry Collins- I believe Brett Favre laughed when he realized Collins was still playing. He's the next Mr. Wrangler.

32. Jimmy Claussen- Zero, yes zero, TDs to a WR last year. He has Steve Smith ( the crazy one) on his squad. I say Smith throws Jimmy under the bus around week 3, of the preseason.