Sox Sign Brad Penny

The Red Sox signed Brad Penny to a one year deal for $5 million. That's a nice little pick up for them to beef up the back end of the rotation. If he can make pitch 170 innings and keep his ERA at 4.00 or below, I would definitely take that to compliment Beckett, Dice-K, and Jon Lester.

2008 NFL Regular Season: Final Thoughts

• The Redskins completed the season losing a close one to my friend Dennis' 49ers who have been playing well. Washington finishes the season scoring 265 points. The Lions scored more points.
• Speaking of the Lions, they did not deserve to finish 0-16. At least they played hard every week. There are some other teams who in my mind are much more pathetic. I'm looking at you, Chiefs, Browns, and Bengals.
• Did the Bucaneers (poop) the bed the final month of the season or what? I don't know why I kept trying to convince myself to keep them on my power rankings.
• My MVP is Peyton Manning. When the Colts were playing like crap, he pulled a couple of wins out of his (behind) to keep them from falling off the face of the Earth. Their win vs. the Vikings in Week 2 should be one for the ages. Plus, he did it Tiger Woods-style on a bum knee. Rounding out my top 4 MVP choices are Adrian Peterson, Drew Brees, and Michael Turner (who has contributed a great deal to helping Matt Ryan eventually win Offensive Rookie of the Year).
• I am very interested to see how Ryan and Joe Flacco handle their first playoff games. I was impressed with Ryan the one time I saw him play. I was less so with Joe Flacco. Both teams aren't stupid though and will run the ball 40 times if they can. The Ravens and Falcons ranked one and two respectively in rushing attempts this season. That's how you break in a rookie QB.
• My two pre-season Superbowl picks will miss the playoffs. Dallas is out and deservingly so since they wilted like bad lettuce yesterday. New England deserves to be in (insert tirade regarding the playoff system here), but it will be refreshing to have a Patriot-less playoffs, just like a Yankee-less playoffs was for baseball. Heh, heh.
• I would be a little concerned if I were the Titans. I know the season finale was meaningless, but to get shut out by the Colts, a team Tennessee could very well meet in the playoffs, is no confidence booster. The Colts didn't need the game either, but they showed a little pride. The Titans couldn't even muster a field goal.
• Next weekend features three wildcard games where the road teams should be favored. My predictions for the entire playoffs will come before the end of the week.

Yanks sign Kevin Cash, realize he has none

I wasn't even aware that Cash was a free agent but the Yanks seem to have picked him up on a minor league contract as a bit of insurance for Jorge and Molina. I also think the Steinbrenner boys got their hands on a baseball history book but they didn't get past the chapter where the Yankees bought the entire 1918 Boston Red Sox lineup, including Babe Ruth from Sox owner Harry Frazee since that seems to be their new plan of action.

I think it is also worth noting that the Yanks are doing something pretty cool for the preseason openers in Yankee Stadium. The two games the Yankees will play against the Cubs on April 3 and 4 will feature ticket prices from the original Yankee Stadium opener of 1923. Its a nice gesture, but it seems that the average fan will be last in line to get a hold of these cheap tickets.

Teixeira to the Yanks

This one hurts. I didn't care that they got the 300 LB Lefty. I didn't care when they got the second coming of Carl Pavano. Now, they have Teixeira and I am worried. No, they Yankees aren't ruining baseball by spending more money then everyone, but, this blow definitely will make the tough AL East even tougher. It should come to no surprise Teixeira went to the Yankees they had the most money and a need at 1st base, I hate myself for being so foolish.

My next question, what is Theo's next move?

The rich get richer

I didn't see this coming but it looks like the Yanks have swept in and stolen Mark Teixeira from the Red Sox and the Nationals. Jon Heyman is saying the deal is sitting in the range of $180 million over 8 years. I don't know where the Yankees are pulling all this money from but I can't really believe they actually can afford all of these huge contracts. Maybe they have some old couch in Old Yankee Stadium that they haven't cleaned out since Mickey Mantle retired. There is a ton of money coming off the books in a couple of seasons, but the Steinbrenner accountants most be livid right now.

I think Teixeira is a good player and of course he is going to be overpaid. He was going to be overpaid no matter which team signed him, but I am happier that the Sox didn't get him than I am the Yankees getting him. They haven't had a first baseman of this quality since the Tino days of the late '90s. A guy who can pick it at first and swing the bat.

It will take a lot for this team to gel, but if the Yanks haven't beaten the Sox on the field since '03 they have certainly won the spending wars during the off-season. Cashman couldn't have done it better really as he got everything the Yanks needed this off-season (except a centerfielder though, Swisher could fill that role) and I don't believe that any Yankee fan should feel bad that they have spent so much. It's not our money and the Yanks are just playing by the rules.

Believe it or not this trade probably helps them shave money from the payroll over the next couple of years. Now they don't really have to worry about Matsui, Damon and Nady walking next season as Swisher can move to a corner spot and Austin Jackson should be ready to take over centerfield by then (hopefully).

I'm sure Teixeira to the Yanks will create an uproar throughout baseball. Whether happy or mad everyone is going to have something to say. I'm sure most of it will be negative but hey, the Yankees know how to deliver a Christmas miracle to their fans.

NFL Top 10: Week 17

This will be the final installment of the power rankings for this season. Come next week, I will predict the playoffs, NCAA Tournament style. It figures, anytime I jump on or off any band wagon, I get proven wrong. The top four are back to where they were back in Week 15. I'm glad I spent all this free time on the rankings every week. Sheesh.

1. Giants (12-3): Last week #3. Just as I thought, with Jacobs back and the offensive coaches recommitted to the running game, the Giants are back on track. I like the way they stayed the course with the ground game though they were down early to the Panthers. The D is looking a little depleted however. Perhaps there is cause for concern.

2. Titans (13-2): Last week #4. I thought their D would struggle without Albert Haynesworth and Kyle Vanden Bosch, but wrong again! The defense may be just nasty enough to get them through the playoffs, but I still just can't get excited about them.

3. Pittsburgh (11-4): Last week #1. When Big Ben becomes Bad Ben, this team doesn't have a chance. The one constant during their win streak had been Roethlisberger's ability to take care of the football. That's the only way they could win a rematch with Tennessee.

4. Panthers (11-4): Last week #2. 301 yards rushing? Ouch. A week after running for 299 themselves, they allow a monster day to Jacobs and Co. I'm banking on that performance being an aberration.

5. Colts (11-4): Last week #5. It hasn't been Peyton's best year statistically, but if ever he deserved MVP consideration, it is now. The Colts have won eight in a row and shown that they have brass ones in the process, pulling out a number of close games including their last win vs. the Jags. This sets up an anticlimactic season finale with the Titans, where nothing is on the line and no one will play. It will probably be a boring game on top of it, with neither coach wanting to tip his hand in case these teams meet in the playoffs.

6. Dolphins (10-5): Last week #6. Time for Chad P. to get the last laugh on the Jets. No one is talking about a weak arm anymore.

7. Ravens (10-5): Last week #7. If nothing else the Ravens know how to play to their strengths. They have a rookie QB and a great defense, therefore they have more rushing attempts than any team in the league.

8. Falcons (10-5): Last week unranked. I should have gone with my gut instead of my head last week. The Bucs were ranked instead. I said I was skeptical all year, yet I kept the Bucs in the rankings. Now they're sucking wind and the Falcons have clinched.

9. Patriots (10-5): Last week unranked. It's scary to see them scoring 40+ with regularity again. The AFC better hope New England doesn't get in.

10. Cowboys (10-5): Last week #8. God, I hate you guys. Do they beat up on the weak or what? Then they cower like dogs when they play a big boy defense like Baltimore. Even still, win and they're in. I hope they don't.

What the hell is up with...? The Broncos. You let the once 4-8 Chargers back in the mix. If you had any cajones you would have wrapped up this putrid division weeks ago. All you had to do was win one stupid game. It sickens me to think that either you or the Chargers are going to show up for one game only in the playoffs and the Patriots could be 11-5 and watching from home.

Wang and Yanks agree on 2009

Word coming now about the Yanks avoiding arbitration with Chien-Ming Wang. They have agreed to a one year deal at the pay rate of $5 million. Not much to say except that its good for the Yanks relationship with Wang that they avoid the messy process of arbitration hearings like they had last year. Those can only make future contract negotiations more difficult to work out.

Wang was 8-2 last year with a 4.07 ERA. He has been the anchor of the staff since 2006 and when he went down last year it pretty much killed the Yanks rotation. He is kinda being forgotten about during this whole CC and A.J. mess, but he is a huge factor in the Yankees 2009 plans. If he can bounce back to be his reliable economic old-self, then the Yanks rotation will be formidable and it will take pressure off of Joba and the youngsters to eat innings.

Barring any major injury the Yanks will probably look to lock him up for a longer deal after the season. Something that will be economical and team friendly. Though, nothing is stopping Wang from looking to his left and right and wanting the same deal as the guy who weighs 300 pounds and the guy with his arm in a sling.

Sox out on Teixeira

Well word has come from the top that the Sox are no longer in on Mark Teixeira. Can't say I'm surprised. I don't trust any rumor I hear about the Red Sox being in on a big time free agent or some kind of big time trade. It seems that Theo Epstein has thoroughly proven that his M.O. is to try and drive up the price on other competitors and then bail out as soon as the other side comes to the table for real.

In all honesty I never thought he would fit into their plans anyway. They have a stud first baseman in the system in Lars Anderson and there is no way they would have been able to trade Mike Lowell, unless they gave him away for free. Sure he would have made their lineup great again, but you don't need a ridiculous lineup to win. You just need pitching to keep the hitters down while you put up three or four runs. Everyone would want a lineup of all-stars but it just doesn't work. The Yankees have proven that.

Anyway, this just proves that Theo is a shadowy guy and you can't really trust any rumors you hear about who the Red Sox are in on. The only time they actually ended up being a high bidder trying to acquire a big name was the Matsuzaka Sweepstakes. The Santana deal was a myth and now, so is the Teixeira contract.

Just in case

Just in case you haven't seen them in a million other places, here's a link to Peter Abraham's blog and a few snap shots of the two newest Yankees.

ESPN

On ESPN's homepage, the sportsnation poll question is, "Who will win more games in 2009 AJ Burnett or CC Sabathia?" Really?? I justed laughed out loud when I read that one. The real question should be, will every win by AJ Burnett as a Yankee cost more or less than $1 million? I say more and it's not even close. Great signing!

Welcoming wagon is out

Going on live at the moment; CC and A.J. donning their pinstripes for the first time at the Stadium. Right now I'm finishing a paper but I'm keeping one eye on the screen.

Update: 1:06 p.m. - CC looks pretty excited to be at the Stadium. Not necessarily what I expected. A.J. looks about right: serious like he wants his money and he wants to get out of there quick.

Update: 1:10 p.m. - The pinstripes can only do so much for CC. He is one huge individual. Nonetheless they both look pretty good in their Yankee digs. Bad omen for Burnett though, he's wearing one of Jaret Wright's old numbers 34. Well at least that was the year Wright didn't get hurt too much.

Update: 1:20 p.m. - CC sounded cool and confident behind the mic. I think that's a good sign for him. The real test will be what he does when he gets bounced out of a game after two innings. He does seem to have a personality to deal with the adversity though.

Update: 1:24 p.m. - A.J. is all done now too. Burnett said that the reason he missed a lot of time was he didn't know his body well at a young age and now he does. He even said that he would take the ball on three days rest if necessary. Well I'm sure every Yankees fan will say the same thing: just try to take the ball every fifth day A.J.

So Long to Slingin' Sammy

A Washington Redskins and NFL great, Sammy Baugh passed away at the age of 94. He was a revolutionary in the passing game and a great all around player in the days when players went both ways. I'll be wearing my number 33 jersey on Sunday.

NFL Top 10: Week 16

We have a real shake up at the top here. At this point in the season, I'm basing this on recent performance more so than body of work. Each of the top four teams has an impressive resume this season, so I'm going by who looks good right now. What a great weekend ahead featuring two potential conference championship previews with home field on the line.

1. Steelers (11-3): Last week #3. I had the idea to put the Steelers at number one late Sunday night, but because they get to write sports for a living Don Banks and Peter King of SI scooped me. Big Ben was the difference last weekend (controversial call aside). He was the main reason they won and the Ravens lost. He engineered a 92 yard game winning drive and Joe Flacco looked like a rookie, completing less than 50% and throwing two picks.

2. Panthers (11-3): Last week #4. I love their running game. I hate it when teams rely on the run just because the offense has no talent. This rushing attack is down right explosive.

3. Giants (11-3): Last week #1. Two losses in a row. Tisk, tisk. I refuse to believe that Burress' absence is the problem. Jacobs is the straw that stirs the drink as another NYC sports hero said. Run the ball, then you can go down field.

4. Titans (12-2): Last week #2. See what happens when you stop the running attack and make Kerry Collins try to beat you. Houston did it perfectly. I know Collins has made opponents pay at times this season, but I sure wouldn't fear him if I were the Steelers or Ravens (for example). I would be worried most of all by the prospect of Albert Haynesworth and Kyle Vanden Bosch being out for two weeks or more. Without their D this team has jack squat.


5. Colts (10-4): Last week #5. Another double digit win season for Peyton and crew. They just keep finding ways to win. Like I said before, no one wants to face them in the playoffs. I wonder how much, if anything, will be on the line in the season finale vs. the Titans.


6. Dolphins (9-5): Last week #8. The teams on the rest of this list all control their own destiny. In other words, they don't need help to get in the tournament. They just need to win. I think it's completely underrated how much of a stabilizing force Chad Pennington has been for this team.


7. Ravens (9-5): Last week #6. They're still very much in the hunt even after the disappointing loss to Pittsburgh. We'll see how the young QB, Flacco, rebounds from the poor outing.


8. Cowboys (9-5): Last week #9. I wouldn't be surprised if this team won out and made it to the Super Bowl or lost their last two and completely imploded.


9. Buccaneers (9-5): Last week #7. They're reeling after two straight losses, and I'd love to put the Falcons here, but I can't. The Bucs are in a better situation with tie breakers.


10. Jets (9-5): Last week unranked. See above only switch Falcons with Patriots.

What the hell is up with...? Fairness. There are a number of teams who, in certain scenarios, could finish 11-5 and miss the playoffs, while the Cardinals could finish as 8-8 division winners and still get in. In my opinion, the divisions are too small. You only have to be better than 3 teams to get into the tournament. This will never happen, but you could keep the division structure to help with scheduling and still allow the 6 best teams from each conference in based completely on record and seed accordingly. The NFL would hate this, but in my system, the top two teams could come from the same division and both get byes. Oh well, a guy can dream.

Eagles still in flight

After the Ravens destroyed Philly and Andy Reid sat Donovan McNabb I, like most other Eagles fans, felt the Eagles were done. Now, three weeks later, they're still on the outside looking in but they are still very much alive in the NFC Wild Card hunt and they are playing like a team on a mission.

Somehow this offense has found a rhythm that they haven't really had on a consistent basis all season. All of their receivers are stepping up and at the moment the don;t seem to need that number one guy as long as McNabb keeps distributing the ball equally.

Donovan McNabb has somehow returned to his 2004 form and the Eagles offense looks as dynamic as ever. They have two tough games left but I think they can handle the reeling Redskins and they should be able to edge the Cowboys at home.

Now aside from winning out, they also need some help from the Buccaneers or the Falcons. One of those teams needs to lose a game and that is a possibility in Week 16. The Bucs take on the Chargers who are still mathematically alive in the AFC West and the Falcons take on the Vikings who just trounced the faux division winning Cardinals. Both have easy match ups in Week 17 so the Eagles need one of those teams to slip up now.

This still my be the end of McNabb in Philly and that may be the best move for each party, but at least glad that he is reminding Philadelphia why he is one of the best in the game when he's right.

Redskins Reach Nadir

Washington's offense is even more pathetic than I thought. Only 13 points against the Bengals? Though their playoff chances were slim going into this week, I figured they would at least give it the old college try. Instead they spot Cincinnati a 17-0 lead.

I really hope that this doesn't prompt Dan Snyder to try to coax Bill Cowher out of retirement. I have a lot of respect for the guy and I think he's a good coach, but his brand of football drives me crazy. I've had my fill of three-yards-and-a-cloud-of-dust from the Redskins over the years, thank you. I've said it before. Washington desperately needs someone explosive on offense.

And the other shoe falls

Well Part II is now in the fold. First it was CC and now it's A.J. Any other free agents with initials for names better watch out cause the Yanks have tons of money left and we'll buy you too. Anyway the deal for Burnett looks to be in the absurd range of 5 years and $82.5 million.

Now I know that this deal has no standing in reality and that you would be foolish to expect Burnett to actually survive all 5 years of the contract, but his ability is pretty damn exciting. Watching him school the Yankees all last season gave New York a close up view of his 98-mph fastball and that filthy curve that just breaks knees.

Of course his talent is only exciting when he's on the field. In the first season that Burnett topped 200 innings he only through 23 innings the following season. In his walk year with Florida he again cracked the 200 inning barrier only to see his innings total drop to 135 2/3 during his debut with the Blue Jays. Now he hasn't had any major arm issues since he had Tommy John surgery in 2003. Since then it has only been minor things that have kept him from being a horse of the Blue Jay rotation.

The hope is that Burnett doesn't have to be the number one in New York and it's very likely he might only have to be the number three guy. It is a very risky signing. The easy way out would have been for Cashman to sign Derek Lowe, but the general feeling was probably that they wanted the guy who would miss bats. It also helps that over the past three seasons, Burnett has posted a 5-0 record against the Red Sox with an ERA of 2.56. Don't forget, a former teammate of Burnett's went to Boston in 2006 with a very small track record of success. Now look at how Josh Beckett is regarded throughout baseball.

Sox Unveil New Road Unis

Check it out. I'll always love the classic Red Sox "B" on the hats, but I kind of like the hanging Sox logo too.

Good'ole T.O. finally makes an appearance

You have to give credit where credit is due. Kudos to you T.O. It took you almost three full seasons to go all locker room virus on your new team. In Philly you managed to get yourself thrown out of town in just 21 games.

As an Eagles fan it gives me great pleasure to see these types of things, especially when it with a division rival that I despise more than any other team save the Patriots.

My hope would be that this little riff leads to another meltdown in Dallas and the Cowboys slip just a little more. Anyway with the way Philly is playing right now the Boys probably won't be able to handle them in Week 17 anyway. Nonetheless it is fun to watch T.O. work his magic.

Cashman still wheeling and dealing in Vegas

Cashman may not have received a mandate from the Steinbrenners to win this year, but he sure is acting like he has to win now.

After handing out the largest contract ever to a starting pitcher, he is supposedly deep into talks with A.J. Burnett and it looks like the Yanks are in prime position to steal him from the grasp of the Braves. The rumored deal is for five years and somewhere between $80 and $90 million. Now obviously this money is pretty absurd for a guy who has only been sporadically healthy through his career and only shows up against certain teams or when he his playing for his next contract. But the one thing I like about Burnett is that he shows up against both the Yanks and the Sox. If all he does is kill the Sox the $16+ million a year would have some value if only to see how mad Red Sox Nation gets when Burnett is 14-11 with a 4.50 ERA and still schooling them when he can't beat the Royals.

The other deal that Cashman has just about completed is the one to send Melky Cabrera to the Brewers for Mike Cameron. Much like getting Nick Swisher for Wilson Betemit, this a steal of a deal. Melky has potential but I get the feeling he won't reach it or it will be a very long time before he does. Plus the Brewers may eat some of Cameron's contract. Cameron may not be long for the Yanks, he is likely to be just a place holder until they feel that Austin Jackson is ready, so he doesn't cost the Yanks a lot but he upgrades the lineup and the defense in the outfield.

So far the Yanks have spent a lot of money, even by their standards. But on paper they are a much better team and that's all Cashman can do is put the best team on paper and then hope they perform on the field. What I like about all these deals is that he hasn't given up any of the Yankees future. He has held all of the major young pieces that he wants to keep and traded away others that were expendable.

I can't argue with what Cashman has done. I probably would have made all the same moves too. Ironically the Yanks payroll will probably still fall this off-season and next year it will drop a little further.That's a feat in itself.

Sabathia and Yanks near a Deal

The Yanks and CC Sabathia are close to finishing a 7 year $160 million deal. That is a lot of years and money for a guy who is over-weight and has thrown literally 500 innings the past 2 seasons. This deal might work out for the Yanks, but those factors have got to be in the back of Cashman's head. When we look back in 5 years, Johan Santana might look like a bargain compared to Sabathia in dollars and players even though the Mets gave up some prospects.

NFL Top 10: Week 15

Finally, I can say with some confidence that the top five teams should be pretty apparent to just about anyone. We should all be able to reach some kind of consensus on this, shouldn't we? Well the top three anyway. No? How about the top... Oh never mind.

1. Giants (11-2): Last week #1. Heck yeah they're still number one. I find it hard to down grade them after a tough divisional loss against a team fighting for its playoff life in the Eagles. Besides, I had them ahead of the Titans all season even when the Titans were undefeated. By the way, thanks for making me look like a fool after my post last week, Mr. Hixon.

2. Titans (12-1): Last week #2. They took care of business against another inferior opponent last game. The upcoming match up against the Steelers ought to be a real slobberknocker. I for one can't wait.

3. Steelers (10-3): Last week #3. That was a man sized comeback against the Cowboys. It was helped along quite a bit by Tony Romo, but give the Steelers credit. You have to play all 60 minutes flat out.

4. Panthers (10-3): Last week #8. Believe it or not, the Panthers control their own destiny for home field advantage and a first round bye in the NFC. If they win out it will include a victory over New York so the Giants had better be careful.

5. Colts (9-4): Last week #5. As unlikely as it may appear the Colts could finish 12-4...again. They are certainly getting it together at the right time. I know the schedule has gotten lighter, but you roll with the hand you're dealt.

6. Ravens (9-4): Last week unranked. It's easy to forget about these guys. That defense is still nasty after all these years.

7. Buccaneers (9-4): Last week #9. How can I move them up after a crushing loss? The Cowboy's loss was more crushing. The Bucs still have the inside track to a wildcard berth.

8. Dolphins (8-5): Last week unranked. Last season after thirteen games they were 0-13. Now they control their own fate for a division title. Things look bright for the last three games; San Francisco, at Kansas City, at NY Jets.

9. Cowboys (8-5): Last week #4. It was devastating loss vs. Pittsburgh to be certain. Call me crazy, but I'm not quite ready to give up on them. What did you call me?!

10. Patriots (8-5): Last week #7. The Pats are looking uncharacteristically sloppy lately. The signing of Junior Seau smells like desperation to me. I wouldn't be surprised if they got back on track, but this could be a Patriot-less post season.

What the hell is up with...? The NFL League Offices. Wow. The economy must be bad if the NFL is handing out pink slips. They laid off a bunch of people from the New York office this past week. How is that possible with the billions they make?

'Skins Swoon

After starting 6-2, my beloved Redskins sit at 7-6, on the outside of the playoff bubble. Sunday's thrashing at the hands of their next door neighbor Baltimore Ravens served notice that they are done. I warned all of you 'Skins fans not to get too excited after the first half of the season.

For some reason, although they have played well by and large, Washington's defense feels the need to spot their opponents with a 7-0 lead at the outset of every game. Clinton Portis, their only offensive weapon of any note, has way too much wear on his tires to be effective. The passing game continues to lack any kind of identity or go-to player (no disrespect to Chris Cooley but he's not going to stretch any defense with his speed).

In the offseason, they need to get some kind of threat a wide receiver and find a legit pass rusher. Jason Campbell will continue to develop if you give him more targets. They are just a couple of pieces from being a real playoff contender.

NFL Top 10: Week 14

It pains me to do so, but my Redskins have dropped out of the Top 10. The offense looked putrid against the Giants on Sunday. There is still no one on that side of that ball that strikes fear into the hearts of opposing defenses. The 'Skins D is solid and kept Washington in the game for a while. However, it's hard to continue to do that when the offense is punting every five minutes. Anyway, on to the Top 10.

1. Giants (11-1): Last week #1. Plaxico who? Domenik Hixon is a receiving star on the rise. Very dangerous.

2. Titans (11-1): Last week #2. What is a better way to rebound from a loss than to bury the toothless Lions on Thanksgiving day? Are they destined for 0-16 or what?

3. Steelers (9-3): Last week #3. They showed the Patriots who's boss. After falling behind 10-3, they scored the game's next 30 points. Think they were motivated by some past playoff failures against the Pats?

4. Cowboys (8-4): Last week unranked. I know, I know. How can I bring them from unranked to number four on the list. Because it's my list, damn it! Clearly, the return of Tony Romo has the 'Boys clicking again. It's amazing how teams can overcome just about any injury except to the QB.

5. Colts (8-4): Last week #5. That was an ugly, ugly win against the Browns. C'mon, only 3 offensive points! But sometimes you have to find a way to win in the mud and gunk. The Colts stepped out of their comfort zone and did just that.

6. Jets (8-4): Last week #4. I give the Jets somewhat of a pass for the loss on Sunday to Denver. They were working off a couple of big wins where they expended a lot of physical and mental energy. They have three winnable games in a row on the upcoming schedule. Don't screw it up!

7. Patriots (7-5): Last week #6. They just got manhandled by Pittsburgh on Sunday. You can never count out BB though. A playoff rematch might yield different results.

8. Panthers (9-3): Last week #8. When they run the ball, all is well. Will they be able to avenge their October 12th loss to the Bucs on Sunday?

9. Buccaneers (9-3): Last week #9. The winner of Bucs vs. Panthers could very well end up the 2nd seed in the NFC (and a coveted top 5 ranking in Dan's list).

10. Falcons (8-4): Last week #10. Everyone is sleeping on the NFC South. The winner could cause trouble in the playoffs for the favorites. Meanwhile, Matt Ryan is having one of the best rookie seasons ever for a QB. He has thrown just 6 interceptions and has only been sacked 13 times to go along with his 61% completion rate.

What the hell is up with...? Plaxico Burress. Certainly you don't need me to analyze the events of a few days ago. All the sports media will be doing that ad nauseum. But what baffles me the most is how Plax was such a good soldier last season. He played hurt all year. He made big catch after big catch. He kept is nose clean. So now that he has his ring he has no desire to work hard anymore or keep himself out of career risking situations? He should be trying especially hard to keep out of trouble considering that it's quite clear that the Giants don't need him.

NFL Top 10: Week 13

We're down to the last month or so of the season. The wildcard races are getting hairy. Whatever you do, don't start trying to figure out all of the tie breaker scenarios. It's enough to give you a stroke.

1. Giants (10-1): Last week #1. The G-Men didn't play their best game against the Cardinals. But what impressed me is that in spite of being down Plaxico Burress and Brandon Jacobs, they were able to answer each time Cardinal offense scored and made it a game.


2. Titans (10-1): Last week #2. Any team with a defense like that has a chance for the Super Bowl. They had an uncharacteristically bad game against the Jets, but what concerns me more is the offense. They need to run the ball better. Anyone who thinks that Kerry Collins can shoulder the offensive load week-in and week-out is a fool.


3. Steelers (8-3): Last week #4. They seem to have their mojo back after a short rough patch. Big Ben looked like his towering, formidable self on Thursday night. They have a chance to make a statement against the Pats in their next game.


4. Jets (8-3): Last week #10. Believe it or not, right now they are the 2nd seed in the AFC. Huh? I am very impressed with their back-to-back wins over the Patriots and Titans.

5. Colts (7-4): Last week #5. Nice hard fought win against a Chargers team that was desperate and usually has their number. The rest of the schedule is very favorable for the Colts including the season finale against the Titans who will have nothing to play for.

6. Patriots (7-4): Last week #6. Another team with an easy schedule down the stretch. If they can beat the Steelers coming up, they could easily finish 12-4. So much for the season being lost without Tom Terrific.

7. Redskins (7-4): Last week #7. I don't know why I keep them around. Barely beating the hapless Seahawks doesn't instill me with much confidence. A win against the Giants Sunday would.

8. Panthers (8-3): Last week #3. I know I was singing their praises a few weeks ago, but Jake Delhomme's play has soured me on the Panthers. I can see them falling by the wayside.

9. Buccaneers (8-3): Last week #9. I have to see this team play more. I have to know how they're doing it.

10. Falcons (7-4): Last week #10. They're back in the top 10 after a nice victory against the Panthers. Wouldn't it be interesting if they could capture the division one year after the Vick/Petrino catastrophe?

What the hell is up with...? LenDale White of the Titans after the team's first loss of the season. Quoth White, "You would like to win it, but it is one game, so what? -- I only played three plays so I really couldn't tell you what happened, I don't really know, I wasn't paying attention, I didn't care really." Does that sound like the voice of a champion? Your team is 10-1 and a legit Super Bowl contender and that's what you have to say for yourself? Be thankful that they keep your fat behind on the roster so you can roll into the endzone for TD's. You could just take your 3.8 yard average to the unemployment line. P.S.-- What's up with the capital letter in the middle of your made-up name?

Pacman's Last Stand and Pick Results

Adam "Pacman" Jones was recently reinstated into the NFL after his most recent incident involving the police. Now, reports are saying that if there is another incident Pacman will receive a lifetime ban from the NFL.

I would say it is about time Goodell laid down the law. If you were running a company would you ever hire someone who had been arrested 7 times in 2 years? Would you hire someone who, though talented, was fired by his previous employer? I wouldn't. Clearly Pacman has issues, but he still doesn't realize playing in the NFL is a privilege not a right given to talented athletes. Hopefully he will finally get the point, stop being a jerk, and try to become a respectable member of society.

I will start posting on Monday's my picks results from the weekend:
Last week: 6-8 and I laid a huge egg with Denver as a lock. The Broncos did not only not cover, but they lost badly to a bad team. Unfortunately they will still get a 1st round home playoff game. When will the NFL just adopt the English Premier League way of standings and scheduling? There is 1 division and each team plays every other team. My God, it is actually a fair way of doing things and you might actually get the 12 best teams into the playoffs every year. It's Amazing.

NFL Picks

Here are the picks for this week.  As a side note: the NFL Network can suck it and I refuse to pick any Thursday night games as no one can watch them. It's a joke. You would think Goddell has been listening to Bud Selig.

Locks:

New England +1.5 over Miami: No way Belichick losses twice to Miami. And no way they don't make the playoffs with Cassel playing like he is playing now.

Denver -10 over Oakland: Do I really need to provide analysis for this pick. Oakland is a train wreck and they should not be allowed to play in the NFL anymore. 

Stay Away:

Giants -4.5 over Arizona: The Giants should win but AZ is great at home. Giants win but only by a late field goal.

Green Bay over New Orleans: Both these teams have looked good and have looked bad this season. It is just a matter of which teams show up. I would bet on either of them.

The Rest:

Cleveland -3 over Houston, Dallas -7 over San Francisco, Tennessee -1.5 over New York Jets, Detroit +9 over Tampa Bay, Kansas City +3 over Buffalo, Chicago -5 over St. Louis, Jacksonville +1 over Minnesota, Philadelphia +1 over Baltimore. Atlanta over Carolina, Indianapolis -3 over San Diego, Washington -6 over Seattle.

Papi to be traded?

This Boston Globe story as reported by SI seems like an interesting idea. I love Ortiz and what he has done for Boston. But let's face it, his window for playing at a high level was always small. Most big guys like him tend to break down in a hurry once injuries start to mount(Mo Vaughn, Cecil Fielder). They usually have a domino effect. IF the Red Sox get Teixeira and IF they can get something decent for Ortiz, it might not be a bad idea to trade Big Papi. Get something for him while he still has value. It would be a bold move and would make some folks upset, but moves like that are how you keep the franchise moving forward. That's why Boston let Pedro, Johnny Damon and others sign elsewhere. Holding on to heroes past their prime is a sure way to fall off the pace.

Hughes wraps up his winter workout

One other note to make. Phil Hughes threw for the last time this winter and finished his winter workout on a strong note. Last night Hughes threw five innings allowing on two hits (both singles) and striking out 10 without walking any. Now Hughes didn't reach the 40 IP that the Yanks wanted to get him to but, aside from two rough starts, he was dominant.

His final totals for the Arizona Fall League 30 IP, 21 H, 10 ER, 13 BB, 38 K.

The most important stat is that he is still 22. So I guess he is not quite washed up. Hughes may not be a Cy Young winner in his career but he is an important piece of the Yankees future and they should hold onto him. Hopefully they stop trying to force his development and learn a lesson from his and Kennedy's reaction to being rushed to the majors.

Both can still be good pitchers; it might just take longer.

The end of an era

It's official. Control of the New York Yankees no longer resides in the hands of George Michael Steinbrenner III. It now belongs to his son Hal Steinbrenner. I can't say that George didn't do a lot of things to make this Yankee franchise great again after CBS destroyed it, but hopefully this era of Hal is one of enlightenment where owners defer to baseball minds.

Oh, and thank God the control went to Hal and not Hank. We dodged a bullet there.

Hot Stove

Can someone please tell me why any discussions of potential off-season baseball transactions are refered to as "hot stove discussions"? Is this just another stupid baseball thing. Oh and did you hear, next year's World Series Game 1 will start November 3rd at 2 am Eastern Standard Time, so as few people as possible can watch it. Since Pedroia for MVP was such a sucessful campaign, I have a new slogan, Fire Bud!

Looks like Coco is on the move.

Just saw this over at Pete Abraham's blog. Looks like the Coco Crisp experiment is finally over in Beantown.

Pedroia Wins MVP

Congratulations to Dustin Pedroia on winning the AL MVP. It was a wide open year for MVP this season. Watching Pedroia day in and day out, one definitely gains an appreciation for his value to the Red Sox. As Joey has said, he is the Sox version of Derek Jeter. I anticipate him being Boston's offensive catalyst for years to come. Pedroia's MVP is a nice consolation prize for Sox fans after a disappointing playoff run.

NFL Top 10: Week 12

What does everyone think of all of this junk? I've been doing this for about a month now and I'm sure I could reverse positions three through ten and the list would make just as much sense. All of the week 11 teams made it to week 12 but one. We have someone new in the number 10 spot. Check it out.

1. Giants (9-1): Last week #1. Brandon Jacobs, Ahmad Bradshaw, and Derrick Ward are like the three heads of the fearsome Cerberus. They combined for 31 carries and 210 yards against the touted Ravens D. The Giants have rushed for 200 yards in three straight games.

2. Titans (10-0): Last week #2. I had been wondering all season how the Titans would fair in a game when they were down double digits late. Sunday they gave me the answer. I am now a believer.

3. Panthers (8-2): Last week #6. Jake Delhomme has another game where he only reaches double digits in passing yards. No matter, the Panthers just rush for over 200 and destroy the outmatched Lions.

4. Steelers (7-3): Last week #5. Not a pretty win in the snow, but they managed to tough it out against a Charger team that was just aching for a victory.

5. Colts (6-4): Last week #7. They are getting into a groove at the right time. No one will want to face them if they can get into the playoffs.

6. Patriots (6-4): Last week #3. I would still favor them in a playoff match up vs. the Jets, but Sunday's loss has to hurt. Correction: In last week's top ten I speculated about a trade involving Matt Cassel. The fact is Mr. Cassel is about to have a dump truck full of money dumped on his lawn in free agency. I doubt the Pats will match any offer he gets on the open market in order to keep him in New England to back up Brady. Buyer beware though. Remember Matt Schaub?

7. Redskins (6-4): Last week #4. Sorry fellow 'Skins fans. I smell a slide coming on. There's no way for them to stay in the hunt unless they beat the Seahawks next week. Then the week after that it's the Giants. Ouch.

8. Cardinals (7-3): Last week #8. It looks like we're going to have the first Cards playoff berth since Jake the Snake was at the helm.

9. Buccaneers (7-3): Last week #9. Jeff Garcia keeps on trucking along. They have an interesting stretch coming up. First the Lions then three divisional games in a row.

10. Jets (7-3): Last week unranked. I can't ignore that big time win against the Pats. This sets up a very interesting game against the undefeated Titans this weekend.

What the hell is up with...? The Eagles. This is another seemingly good team that just can't get it together. They failed to keep pace with the rest of the NFC East following their sister-kissing tie against the Bungles. How does an offense like that only manage 13 points on Cincinnati, then fail to score at all in overtime? The big fat cherry on top of this is that Donovan McNabb didn't realize the game could end in a tie. Huh? I know it doesn't happen very often, but c'mon. (For the record, I am not in favor of changing the system to avoid ties. It's so infrequent that it's not worth taxing already overtaxed players with multiple OT periods.)

Hot Stove cooks a couple of meals

Well it didn't take Cashman long to make a few deals and get some pieces set for the Yankees 2009 drive for the World Series. Before free agency hit Cashman resigned Damaso Marte and made a trade for Nick Swisher.

Here are my thoughts on each deal:

Damaso Marte: 3 years for $12 mil, plus club option for 2012
The Yankees have lacked an explosive lefthander in the bullpen for years. Ever since Mike Stanton went to the Mets in 2003 the Yankees haven't been able to find a southpaw who could get anybody out on a consistent basis. The price for Marte was pretty reasonable over three years and he was more effective than his numbers indicated. He was bad when he first arrived in the city but he really pulled things together over the last month of the season or so.

Obviously grades will change by the end of the contract but as of right now: B


Nick Swisher and Kanekoa Teixeira for Wilson Betemit, Jeff Marquez and Jhonny Nunez

Betemit was a throw away player for the Yankees. Swisher was the same for the Sox. The only thing is that the White Sox forgot that Nick Swisher actually knows how to play its just that Ozzie Guillen didn't know how to use him. Betemit will never really amount to much. The Sox could use him all around or as a general replacement for Joe Crede, though, they do have Josh Fields. None of the minor leaguers are of note. Jeff Marquez was a quasi-legitimate prospect two years ago but he failed to deliver last season and he really wont ever be better than a back of the rotation guy. Jhonny Nunez was acquired for Alberto Gonzalez back in June. 'Nough said. Kanekoa has some stuff but like most youngsters he lacks control. It's anybodies guess that he will ever figure it out but most likely he wont. The Yankees bought low on Swisher and lucky for them, the Sox were desperate to unload payroll and took on the debacle known as Wilson Betemit.

Grade: A, even if Swisher doesn't pan out, the Yankees gave up next to nothing to take a flier on him. But the new digs might be just what he needs to get back on track and jack 30 homers a year at a really cheap rate.

NFL Top 10: Week 11

The two top spots are set and have been for a while. As for the rest; they're in then they're out. They're up then they're down. Argh, get that stupid Katy Perry song out of my head.

1. Giants (8-1): Last week #1. They're only two wins away from the 10 they had last season. The tough win on the road against the Eagles earns major points with me.

2. Titans (9-0): Last week #2. I'm still waiting for them to impress me somehow. Give them credit though. You set 'em up; they knock 'em down.

3. Patriots (6-3): Last week #5 . I wonder if there's a job for Matt Cassell somewhere else after the season. The Pats are going to raid some poor sap for draft picks to give him up.

4. Redskins (6-3): Last week #6. Perhaps I'm over-reaching here a little bit with this ranking. But I fully expect the 'Skins to take care of the 'Boys this week, Romo or no Romo.

5. Steelers (6-3): Last week #3. As Big Ben goes, so go the Steelers, down two spots after a subpar performance. Consistency is starting to become a problem for him.

6. Panthers (7-2): Last week #4. Just as I was about to continue gushing about the Panthers. Jake Delhomme turns in one of the most putrid stat lines I've ever seen: 7-27, 72 yds, 4 int. Against the Raiders! To be fair he did throw a TD as well (whoopdeedoo).

7. Colts (5-4): Last week #8. The rest of the AFC thought they wouldn't have the Colts to deal with anymore. Oops.

8. Cardinals (6-3): Last week unranked. Kurt Warner has been absolutely carrying this team. I love Anquan Boldin. He's like TO, but without the attitude. These two guys are tough as nails.

9. Buccaneers (6-3): Last week #9. I'm waiting for them to hit a rough patch, but this team keeps plugging along.

10. Falcons (6-3): Last week unranked. Matt Ryan is the real deal and shows you how important quarterback play is with the way he's resurected the Falcons. We'll see if he hits a rookie wall at any point.

What the hell is up with...? The Chargers. They are by far the most disappointing team in football for me. There is lots of talent there as we all know, but the results don't reflect it. I feel bad for L.T. He's still got some miles left on his tires, but that window for a running back's prime can shut in a hurry. He's 29, and you know what happens to running backs at 30. I hope some how he's able to win a Super Bowl before it's done. He's a player and a person I really like.

NFL Picks

I am getting my picks out early. As Dan mentioned we are going to Vegas in, count 'em, 2 days, and the NFL is starting their stupid Thursday Night Game that no one can watch. I had a rough week last week going 4-9. Let's see if we can improve on that.

Locks:
Tennesse -3 over Chicago: This game wouldn't be a lock except for sexy Rexxy at QB for the Bears. I think Tennessee will bring the house at him. Grossman is good for 3 INTs so Tennessee wins easily by a TD.

Green Bay +3.5 over Minnesota: Giving the Pack 3.5? Really? Rodgers shoulder is fine. Expect Green Bay to win this game and take the lead in the division.

Stay Away:
Miami -9 over Seattle: Again, this is too big a number. Miami has played well, but this game could still be close. I don't see Miami scoring that many points, but I still say they win easily

NY Giants over Philadelphia: If this game was 3 weeks ago, you easily go with the G-Men. Now with Westbrook healthy and the game being played in Philly I wouldn't bring surprised no matter who wins. I will go with the Giants just because I am a fan and Justin Tuck is a beast.

The Rest:
Denver +1 over Cleveland, Atlanta over New Orleans, Jacksonville -5.5 over Detroit, New England over Buffalo, Baltimore-4.5 over Houston, St. Louis +4.5 over NY Jets, Carolina -7 over Oakland, Indianapolis +1.5 over Pittsburgh, Kansas City +8 over San Diego, Arizona -6.5 over San Francisco.

NFL Top 10

Some ugly losses knocked the Cowboys and Bills out. Check out who replaced them. Also a switcheroo at the top.

1. Giants (7-1): Last week #2. They bludgeoned a wounded Cowboy team. They smelled blood and went for the kill, a rare thing in the NFL these days. Win when you're supposed to.

2. Titans (8-0): Last week #1. I watched them for a full game for the first time on Sunday. The defense is as good as advertised, but I get the feeling that there is little margin for error if the O doesn't score more.

3. Steelers (6-2): Last week #5. I love that blitzing D, even though it was used to kill my Redskins last night.

4. Panthers (6-2): Last week #6. They get the pleasure of playing hapless Oakland next weekend.

5. Patriots (5-3): Last week #3. They lost to the Colts, who were desperate, but they made too many mistakes. Therefore, they fall two spots.

6. Redskins (6-3): Last week #4. The defense played pretty well against the Steelers considering the offense couldn't keep them off the field. They still don't have any play makers that can stretch a defense.

7. Eagles (5-3): Last week unranked. With Brian Westbrook they are formidable. Without him... yuck.

8. Colts (4-4): Last week unranked. Now it's an eight game season. I'm interested to see what they can do now that they're back in the thick of it.

9. Buccaneers (6-3): Nice comeback. But it was against KC.

10. Bears (5-3): Nice comeback. But it was against the Lions. I'm going to reserve judgment for now. But if they have to go with Sexy Rexy for too long, they will drop out of contention.

What the hell is up with....? Larry Johnson. I guess he's a little frustrated that he's a has-been at 28. Why else would he need to take out his frustration by spitting on a woman. This is the third accusation of this kind, where he has assaulted a woman. Any man who assaults a woman is a straight up coward. When your a pro football player and 6'1", 230 lbs., and you do it, you're just human garbage.

Note: I'm going to try like heck to get my power rankings done next week. However, I will be in Vegas next weekend for Joey's bachelor party. I will be hurting.

Red Sox want to relive the past

Just in case you guys missed it, the Sox are bringing back Tim Wakefield for another year. I will never understand their unquestioning devotion to Wake and/or Mike Timlin in these declining years. It also begs the question as to why they can so easily turn the screws on Varitek and not these guys.

NFL Picks

I know I have been slacking with the picks recently, but I will try to do better in the second half of the year.

Locks

Philadelphia -5.5 over Seattle: Seattle is not good and has a lot of injuries. Philly has looked good the past 2 games. Philly wins by at least a TD and probably more to keep pace with the NFC East.

Buffalo +3 over NY Jets: Buffalo had a hiccough last week, but I still think they are for real, and they are back home this week. The Jets might have a chance, but Brett Favre will throw about 9 INTs and their defense isn't good enough to overcome the mistakes of the offense.

Stay Away

NY Giants -7.5 over Dallas: The Giants will win, but 7.5 is a big number. If the Dallas defense decides to show up this game could be closer than what a lot of people think.

Green Bay +1.5 over Tennessee: After a big win on Monday Night this could be a letdown game for the Titans. Green Bay is coming off a bye week and Tennessee had a short week, I think this could be a big factor. I just don't know, but will go with Aaron Rodgers and his new fat contract.

The Rest: Pittsburgh -1 over Washington, New England -1 over Indianapolis, Denver -1 over Miami, Oakland +5 over Atlanta, Houston over Minnesota, St. Louis +4 over Arizona, Jacksonville -4 over Cincinnati, Baltimore over Cleveland, Tampa Bay -6.5 over Kansas City, Chicago +8.5 over Detroit.

Redskins vs. Steelers

We might have an idea of how good Washington really is after this game. They will also get a chance to make a statement in front of a national audience on Monday night. The Steelers are a solid team with a fine defense. The Washington offense, especially Jason Campbell, will have to be patient and pick the right moments to take shots down the field. The 'Skins must also take advantage of the fact that the Steelers are unwilling or unable to protect Ben Roethlisberger. He also has "Kurt Warner Syndrome." In other words, he holds onto the ball too long to the detriment of the team. If Washington can force him into mistakes, they will win the game.

Prediction: Redskins 17, Steelers 13

Phillies Win It

No, I am not going to create some homophone in my headline using the letters "Ph". There were only 3 1/2 innings to play and the thing still took until 10pm. Oh well, I'm glad I was able to see the end. It was perfect actually, an hour and twenty minutes of excitement. Phillies take the lead, Rays tie it, Phillies take the lead back, Rays get tying run on base, Lidge shuts the door. It was a concentrated dose of baseball fun.

Now that it's over, is it time to start talking Sox and Yanks hotstove topics yet?

NFL Top 10

Here's what you've been waiting for kids. Dan's first installment of the NFL Top 10. I have also included a special weekly feature at the end of the post. Enjoy.

1. Titans (7-0): This team has a nastiness that I like and a great O-line. I think they need find an offensive focal point. Chris Johnson perhaps.

2. Giants (6-1): I've never seen a team so deep with offensive play makers. They showed they can win a slugfest as well by beating Pittsburgh last weekend.

3. Patriots (5-2): You just can't count them out... ever. If you can't be the '07 Pats, then be the '01 Pats. They won it all, if you remember.

4. Redskins (6-2): The league's #1 rushing offense + no interceptions for Jason Campbell= Wins. Beware the second half swoon, 'Skins fans.

5. Steelers (5-2): They win when Big Ben plays well. So why can't they protect their best commodity? If Ben can't stay upright, they will be in trouble. He's partially to blame for not getting rid of the football.

6. Panthers (6-2): John Fox always gets this team to play tough. They will not be an easy out.

7. Bills (5-2): Yeah, I know they just lost to the Dolphins, but I'm not going to down grade for a close divisional loss. They're young and talented. Will they have enough to get past New England? B-squared likes to eat young and talented for breakfast.

8. Bears (4-3): The D is back and Rex is on the bench. How did they miss the fact that Kyle Orton is actually kind of good?

9. Buccaneers (5-3): They're in the playoff race as of now, but I don't like them very much. There's something about John Gruden I don't like. Maybe it's his face.

10. Cowboys (5-3): I don't know why, but here they are. I feel like things will get better when Tony Romo gets back (namely my fantasy team).

What the hell is up with....? Media coverage of the Jets. They complain that the Jets should have blown out the Raiders and the Chiefs in consecutive weeks because they're so much better. They lost to the Raiders in OT and barely beat the Chiefs. This is all I heard on New York radio on Sunday. Has it ever occurred to you that the Jets may be closer to the level of Oakland and KC than they are to the playoffs? They stink and so does Brett Favre. I like Favre as much as the next guy, but he's had it. Thanks to the media market we're in I get to watch his slow, torturous decline every Sunday until the Rapture.

You're Suspended!

Baseball did the right thing by suspending last night's game and making sure that at least 9 innings are played. Their only problem is that this needs to be made a rule for all post-season games, that the game must be at least 9 innings, probably even if one team is up 10-0.

This is a huge advantage for the Rays. They don't have to deal with Cole Hamels anymore. It's also a huge advantage for me. I might actually be able to watch the end of the game after it resumes. Tell me, what is wrong with starting these games at 7:00 or 7:30 instead of 8:00? Pushing up the start just half an hour would be really helpful for me.

Oh yeah, The World Series

I must admit, I thought the Phillies were done after going 0-for-1000 with RISP. I figured they would win two starts by Cole Hamels, but lose the series in six. I thought the Rays with their hot pitching would shut the Phillies down. Every team that wins the World Series rides hot pitching to the championship, often on the backs of guys you never heard of.

Now, after last nights game, the Phils bats are raking and out for blood. That spells doom, I'm afraid, for the upstart Rays. I'm not sure what Tampa's problem is. Perhaps they expelled too much energy holding off the Red Sox.

The Phillies are about to end another sports futility streak. This time it's not just for a team, but a city. Granted, it's not as long a streak as the White Sox, Red Sox, or Cubs (like I had to say that). The city of Philadelphia hasn't had a pro sports champion since the '82-'83 76ers. Philly fans are just as ruthless and demanding as ones from Boston and New York but without the rings. Well, good for them.

In football news: I will reveal my first Top Ten Power Rankings before the end of the week. Stay tuned. They're bound to be better than Dr. Z's.

Just Show Me The Game

Fox is just ridiculous, as if I have to tell you. In addition to the indignity of having to listen to Tim McCarver every broadcast, we had to sit through several minutes of a bloated tribute to baseball before the start of game one of the World Series. Fox's montage of baseball moments lamely attempted to connect baseball events with world news and political events. All the while John McCain and Barack Obama recited quotes from historical figures on the subject of the games.

Zeus knows that talk about sports is often hyperbolic. We place way too much importance on the outcome of games and the events on a ballfield. Do we need Fox to rub our noses in folklore and veiled callings to patriotism on top of it?

I'm going to start a network called The Just Games Network. In other words, there are no pre- or post-game shows, no theme song, no celebrities, no Garth Brooks half-time show. The broadcast will start about thirty seconds before first pitch or kickoff. There will be one mild mannered play-by-play guy or gal in the booth.

It was a pretty good Game 1 though, wasn't it?

Red Sox season is Finished

The Red Sox season ended on Sunday and in my mind, the baseball season is over. This happens every year to me, once the Sox lose I couldn’t care less who wins the World Series.

The Sox had a great year, and if they had been healthy the last month of the season maybe things would have ended differently. However, the Rays played well, and deserve to be in the World Series. David Price is the real deal. Joe Maddon used him perfectly as his ace in the hole in Game 7. Price is a hard thrower the Sox saw ONCE all year in Game Two. They didn’t have a chance against the left-handed stud.

This year the Sox saw some young stars shine, with Lester’s No-hitter, Pedroia’s MVP candidate year, and Jed Lowrie with multiple walk-off hits during a pennant race. The future looks bright for these young players. The Sox also saw some stars fade, Varitek batting around .200 and Timlin and Wakefield throwing batting practice pitches in ACTUAL playoff games.

Next year, the AL East will have 3 teams win 90 games and the other two will be over 75 wins. Everyone is ready to spend and the Rays seem to always have young talent ready to go. I read that a scout said the Rays have 10 guys, I repeat 10 GUYS, who could pitch in a major league rotation next year. That is two full 5 man rotations. Unbelievable.

Look forward to the off-season the Red Sox are solid in every facet of the game; starting pitching, bullpen, hitting, and defense. GM Theo Epstein, should improve in some of these areas to ensure the Red Sox are still a contender next year in the ultra-competitive AL East.

I heard D-Lowe is interested in returning to Boston. I think the Red Sox would welcome him with open arms, unless the Yankees over pay for him. Also, I love Mark Teixeira. Unfortunately, the Sox have no where to put the All-Star 1st Baseman. Mike Lowell has limited trade value because of his hip, his age, and his contract. It seems unlikely the Sox would trade him, but stranger things have happened. They should trade Julio Lugo for an infield rake and 3 baseballs. I would sign Varitek if the price is low and no more than 2 years. Unlike the Yankees, the Sox are lucky V-Tek was awful this year, unlike Posada last year. V-Tek will have limited options, as a 36 year old catcher who batted .220 this year and did squadouce in the playoffs. I hope Jason will see reason and sign a 2 year deal to help the Sox transition someone to the everyday catcher, similar to what Girardi did with Posada in the late '90s.

Like Dan I am already looking forward to next year. I can’t wait to see Lars Anderson and Michael Bowden, the continued development of Justin Masterson, and the renaissance of Clay Buchholz.

One more thing, PEDROIA for MVP.

Red Sox Season Review

The season ended with some disappointment after Boston's comeback in the ALCS fell short. If I'm honest with myself, I can say that the Sox had no business getting the series to a Game 7 after being so thoroughly dominated by the Rays in the first part of the series. At least the final game at Fenway for the year was thrilling win with some historical significance. The last image the fans got on the field was of the Red Sox celebrating.

This is a very good team. In spite of the injuries, losing Manny, and the inconsistent pitching down the stretch, the Red Sox still won 95 games in the toughest division in baseball. As Dennis said in his comment on the previous post, it's only going to get tougher. While those youngsters are still ineligible for free agency, the Rays are stacked.

The Red Sox need only make minor adjustments in the offseason. They will shuffle around the bullpen in search of that magic middle reliever that doesn't really exist (all teams do that). I'm not certain if they will agressively go after any big name free agents, namely Mark Teixeira. They will test the waters though. I don't believe that they are going to break the bank for CC Sabathia, but they will try to bolster the starting pitching. Clay Buchholtz is still a question mark, and Jon Lester, while he had a great season, pitched more innings than he ever has by far. He may slide back a little bit next season. I wonder if their just going to keep picking up that $4 million option on Wakefield until he drops dead.

The biggest question and the question no one wants to ask is, what are they going to do with Jason Varitek? His value to the Red Sox is well documented. I'm sure he would love to retire in Boston. However, his production at the plate has gone from a nice bonus, to passable, to a down right liability. He is swinging like a rusty gate these days. Is Kevin Cash the answer? I don't know. The thing is, if they get rid of Varitek, who will they get instead? All catchers are pretty much the same: 0.250 Avg., 0.310 OBP, 10 HRs if you're lucky. That is unless you're Joe Mauer.

Overall, I see good things for the Sox next season. They will need a little luck and need to stay away from injuries to make another World Series run. It will be an intriguing offseason. I almost can't wait for April.

Note: After the World Series is over, look for our weekly football columns. Joe will continue to make his picks, Peter will be writing about the top performers each week, and I will put together the most accurate power rankings you've ever seen. The interdivisional rivalries get more intense as we argue about Joe's Giants, Pete's Eagles, and my Redskins.

"I got a fever and the only perscription is more cowbell!"

Count me among the many disbelievers who didn't think the Rays stood a chance after that Game 5 debacle. But yet again the Rays proved that they are a team to be reckoned with on the big stage.

First and foremost; that was a great baseball game. Both starters were great and while the Rays provided some timely hitting the Sox provided the tightrope walking moments late in the game. Jon Lester had more left in the tank than I thought he would after he topped his career innings high by more than 50. Everyone knows it already but Lester is pretty damn good. Moving forward I think he is easily the ace of that staff.

On the other side is Matt Garza. Garza always seemed to me like he would be one of those pitchers who would never harness their ability due to their lack of mental fortitude, but he certainly showed that he is the one who deserves the moniker "Big Game" and not his teammate James Shields. (On a side note, how can you even give that nickname to someone who plays for Tampa Bay? Apparently he earned the name in single-A ball which is absurd. You can't hand out a nickname like that until someone does something in October.)

I didn't think the Rays would pull it out last night. It didn't seem like they would ever regain their footing after that ridiculous collapse in game five but I am glad I was wrong. Many will complain that most Rays fans are bandwagon fans but what team doesn't?

During the '90s the Yankees were carrying a lot of extra weight and now the ranks of Red Sox Nation are a little more bloated than they were ten years ago. Winning is what gets the fans in the seats and you can't get on the Rays fans until next season when the team can't draw 20,000 fans to a game in July against the A's.

For right now though, there is a World Series to be played and I can now watch it in peace with the Red Sox out. I like both teams and the series should be pretty competitive. The Rays have the deeper rotation but the Phillies lineup is better. Not by much but it is. The Phillies also have a better bullpen. I know, the Rays bullpen is the reason they are where they are but we all saw what happened in Game 5 when Joe Madden had no one to stop the bleeding late in the game. If Madden is smart then he needs to use David Price as the closer. He'll be their ace in a few years but right now Madden needs to learn something from Tony La Russa and Adam Wainwright and use Price as the closer.

Prediction: Rays in six. They have the starters, they have the bats and if they use him like they should then they have Price to close. Hamels could steal one for the Phillies early and then Philly might get to Sonnanstine for one more. After that there wont be much the Phillies can do to stop this magical season of the Rays.

Joba, What an Idiot

As if news in Yankeeland wasn't bad enough, now we have to listen to crap about Joba Chamberlain being a drunk. It's amazing how dumb some of these young athletes are. He's just lucky he didn't hurt anybody.

Sox vs. Rays Game 6

First we had the Bloody Sock Game. Now will the Torn Oblique Game go down in history as well?

Josh Beckett fought his way through five innings, and although he allowed two home runs, this time they were solo shots, limiting the damage. The most surprising development in this game had to be Jason Varitek's home run that gave the Red Sox the lead. That had to be satisfying considering the Captain's well documented struggles at the plate.

What is remarkable about this comeback by the Sox as opposed to the comebacks in 2004 and 2007 was that the Sox didn't look like they had a prayer. In '04 Boston brought the tying run to the plate in the 9th in each of the first two games before being blown out in game three. Last year's series against the Indians was competitive until the Sox destroyed Cleveland in games five through seven. This year, aside from game one, Boston was severely outclassed by Tampa. Let's hope game seven delivers some drama, if nothing else.

NFL Picks

Here are the weekend NFL picks: Buffalo, Chicago -1, Tennessee -8.5, Pittsburgh -8.5, Dallas -7, Baltimore +3, NY Giants -6.5, New Orleans, Detroit +6, NY Jets -5, Indianapolis -2, Washington -2.5, Seattle +8.5, New England +2.5.

Big night for the Sox. Let's hope Josh can give us 6 innings and the bats continue where they left off late Thursday night.

Sox Vs. Rays Game 5: WTF

I have to admit to you all, even though it was potentially the last time I would see my beloved Sox this season, I couldn't bear to watch with Boston down 5-0 to Tampa. I turned off the game and watched a movie with my wife (George Lopez: Why You Crying, very funny). I woke up this morning and was flabbergasted by the results.

J.D. Drew amazes me. He always seems to have a solid regular season, plays good defense, but misses 20-30 games due to injury. In the playoffs, he has been invaluable for the Sox, Mr. Clutch in fact. Remeber his grand slam in the ALCS last season? It's almost inexplicable to me.

By the way, both Boston and Tampa have outfielders who go by initials that don't correspond to their given names. J.D. Drew was born David Jonathan. Shouldn't he be D.J.? B.J. Upton was born Melvin Emanuel. B.J. stands for Bossman Junior, a tribute to his dad.

It was curious that Tampa started Scott Kazmir instead of James Shields, although that was not the problem last night. It was their heretofore unhittable bullpen that finally had a bad outing. Tampa must have a little fear creeping into their minds that they woke up a sleeping giant. All history aside, we know that Boston has a dangerous lineup and the confidence of being world champs. Who knows? After all is said and done Tampa will probably win a very pedestrian 5-3 game on Saturday. My advice if the Sox want to win; stop pitching to B.J. Upton. I'm still waiting for someone to throw a brush back pitch or something. He is practically standing on home plate and just turning on everything.

I just keep thinking of all of those Sox fans who left early, in their cars, stuck in traffic, with the radio on. What will they say to their grand kids about this game? I turned the TV off, sure. But I never would've left the game early after paying several hundred bucks to be there.

Historical Note: Much has been made of the Red Sox 0-3 and 1-3 comebacks in 2004 and 2007 respectively. But people fail to mention that the Red Sox also came back from 1-3 vs. the Angels in the 1986 ALCS as well.

Game 4: The end is near for the Sox

If game three was ugly, game four was fugly. The Sox just look gassed. Their pitchers are tired. Papi and Varitek look old. It just hasn't come together for them in this series. Going into it, I wasn't going to be surprised if the Rays won. But I did expect a competitive series where each team would have to fight for each run and each out. Instead we got the Harlem Globetrotters vs. the Washington Generals.

Is there any way that Dice-K can replicate his game one performance and keep the Sox going for one more game? Some how I doubt it. The Rays are younger, hungrier, faster, and just plain better. Just to prolong the agony he'll probably keep Boston in the game while the bullpen blows it late.

B.J. Upton, in spite of his inexplicable base running gaffe in game two, should probably be the MVP. He's been the Rays most dangerous hitter throughout and has tracked down every single ball hit to the outfield. It's almost like he could play the whole outfield by himself. He makes the spectacular look routine, seldom diving at balls because he just plain has the wheels to get to every fly ball. God I hate him. Hey B.J., when you want a real contract, come see the Red Sox.

Sox in Trouble

Now I'm not trying to gloat here (don't worry I am still taking pleasure in the anxiety of Sox fans) but the Red Sox look like they are in a world of trouble. Don't get me wrong, they can definitely still dig themselves out of this hole and make a run at the Rays - we've seen it happen before.

This time though, things are different. This is a Red Sox team that is hurting. Papi has only one wrist, Beckett has no velocity, Drew's back is as stiff as a board, Mike Lowell has no hip and even the always reliable Jon Lester has began to show signs that he is human after jumping from 183 total innings last year to 230 this year.

The other big thing you've probably already heard is that this team has no Manny Ramirez and people are right to point it out. This lineup is not nearly as intimidating without Manny. Even Papi is feeling it. Sure he is hurt, but pitchers don't have to fear pitching around him as much. Kevin Youkilis has been great as his protector since Manny left, but he just can't get out of Manny's shadow. If you think I'm being hard on Youk look at his line this series: .429/.429/.786. Those are very good numbers, especially considering how well the Rays staff has pitched this series (with the glaring exception of Scott Kazmir). Now you may not have seen what Manny has done to Philly this series since you're trying to forget Manny like an ex-girlfriend, but here is his line: .500/.667/.917.

Those numbers are simply inhuman. The most telling stat Manny has is six walks to zero for Youk. Six walks in four games means you're pretty damn intimidating. 

Aside from Manny being on the other side of the continent, the Sox are also looking at two big reasons that they should be worried. The first is that unlike last year against Cleveland, they don't have home field advantage. Games six and seven will be played to the irritating din of cowbells in the Trop. Florida hasn't been kind to the Nation this year and things could get ugly down there.

Second is Josh Beckett. He is simply not the same pitcher as last year and it looks very unlikely that he will be anytime soon. Without him Boston needs to consider the idea of moving Jon Lester up one start to game six to either save them for a game seven or to polish off the Rays.

Tonight will give us a better idea of how in trouble the Red Sox are. Wakefield has been great against the Rays during his long career but he hasn't been able to handle them this year. His record against the 2008 Rays is 0-2 with a ERA sitting at a rather bloated 5.87. 

This could get messy pretty fast.

Game 3: Rays Rout Sox

Damn, that was ugly. I don't think anyone was expecting what just happened tonight. At this point we all know that the Rays belong here. But of all of the games, this one figured to be competitive. Lester just didn't have it tonight, and Matt Garza did. I do have several complaints however. I will not make any excuses for the Sox poor play. These are just a few of things about game three that annoyed me.

What was up with the home plate umpire's strike zone? It was a wide strike zone, which is fine. It was just all over the place. Jason Varitek looked at a called strike that almost hit him in the shoulder during one at bat. The Rays had to deal with the same strike zone so I'm not blaming the umpire for the loss. It was just unbelievably bad officiating.

Jacoby Ellsbury looks terrible. Where is the guy from last year's playoffs blistering hits into the gap?

Why didn't the Sox try and do something to change the tone of the game? If B.J. Upton is killing you, throw at him. I'm not advocating hurting the guy, but he's way to comfortable in the batters box. Why not have Jacoby Ellsbury lay down a bunt or something to break Garza's rhythm?

Speaking of Garza, is there a more irritating player to watch than him? All baseball players fidget and have their idiosyncrasies. But I for one can't stand his glove flapping before every pitch or the non-stop spitting. You can actually see him scrape the loogey off of his tongue with his teeth before every expectoration. C'mon, dude. That's freakin' gross.

One inconsequential thought related to Dodgers/Phillies: what the hell has Manny Ramirez started chewing on since he moved to LA? It appears to be a red and blue mouth piece or perhaps wax lips. He better be careful he doesn't choke on it. You know Jeff Kent won't rush to give him the Heimlich.

Game 2: Sox vs. Rays

If you told anyone before the start of this series that game 1 would be the pitchers' duel and game 2 would be the five hour home run-fest, they probably wouldn't have believed you. The Sox have Scott Kazmir figured out finally. He hasn't pitched well against Boston all season. The Rays took advantage of a weakened Josh Beckett. I'm not surprised. Don't look for any post season heroics from him in his compromised state.

Over all, the first two games against Tampa were a success. Boston, who gained the split they were after, will have their most reliable arm on the mound in Jon Lester when they go back to Fenway. Dustin Pedroia emphatically came out of his playoff slump hitting two home runs. Prior to that he was hitting .095 in the post-season. It's mildly disappointing that the Sox couldn't come up with the win last night, but considering all the trouble they've had at the Trop this year, a split is fine.

The Rays have shown that they're capable of winning at Fenway this season. However, I still like the Sox chances now that home field belongs to them. We know that Lester can handle playoff pressure. I wonder if Matt Garza of Tampa can do the same in game three. The White Sox bludgeoned him for 7 hits and 5 runs in 6 innings his last time out.